History

There are five libraries in Union County.  With current funding and resources, none of these libraries are able to meet the basic standards for professional library service outlined by the Oregon Library Association.

In 2002, one public library lost its funding and others had seen reductions in staff and open hours.  All were worrying about budgets and services.  With a mission to improve access to library services for all residents of Union County, a group of concerned volunteers and community leaders formed the Union County Library District Feasibility Committee (Library Committee).

Since that time, with support from a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Oregon State Library, the Library Committee has worked to obtain public input and support for forming a Library District.

Grant funds have been used to demonstrate some of the services that a Library District would provide.  More information about the service demonstrations is available by clicking District Services in the left column. This Website is an example of how a coordinated district would vastly improve access to the resources for information, education and recreation available in our public libraries and our community.

Our Vision

The proposed Library District for Union County will improve the highly utilized but underdeveloped library services in Union County.  Hours will increase by 54%; materials by 85% and staffing will increase from 7 to 15 FTE to provide improved customer service. A skilled and credentialed library director will work with staff, the Library Board and the public to establish effective collaboration with schools, community organizations, business and local government and an ongoing dialog with library users. Libraries have a unique role to fill in nurturing knowledge, literacy, cultural awareness and citizenship. The proposed Library District for Union County will provide the monetary and human resources needed for an outstanding public service that will be an asset to the quality of life in our communities.