Grants Pass, January 7, 2025—In a shocking turn of events, the Josephine County Board of Commissioners has voted unanimously to terminate the lease on the Grants Pass branch of the Josephine Community Library.
Claiming that the change from being a “county” to a “community” library in 2017 negates the county’s charter mandate for “the support and maintenance” of libraries in Josephine County, Commissioner John West urged his fellow commissioners to terminate the lease with 30 days’ notice. The lease, which has been in place since 2008, runs until December 31, 2025.
The discussion preceding the vote failed to consider that in the late 1990s, citing Measure 50, the Board of Commissioners shifted a 33-cent library levy to the general fund to pay for public safety — an increase in the county’s property tax of 57 percent. The County then absorbed that levy into the permanent tax rate, raising it from 25 cents to 58 cents. Except for maintenance of the Grants Pass branch, none of that money goes towards supporting the library.
“This abrupt decision undermines community trust and investment,” said Library Director Kate Lasky. “Terminating the lease with just 30 days’ notice disregards these contributions and the essential services the library provides to thousands. We deserve a fair and respectful process.”
As it stands, the library’s lease will end on February 6, leaving no recourse if the commissioners choose to evict the library from the building.
For more information about library programs and services, visit josephinelibrary.org, email info@josephinelibrary.org, or call 541-476-0571.
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In Josephine County, Oregon, residents receive public library services through Josephine Community Library District, formed in May 2017 as a special library district with branches in Grants Pass, Illinois Valley, Williams, and Wolf Creek. From public information and early childhood literacy to access to the Internet and critical support for families, seniors, entrepreneurs, and job seekers, Josephine Community Library is committed to connecting diverse community members to reliable resources and technology. For more information about library services or to volunteer, visit josephinelibrary.org, email info@josephinelibrary.org, or call 541-476-0571.