Tumwater, WA –September 24, 2024- Timberland Regional Library (TRL), established in 1968, has consistently adapted to changes in technology, economics, population, and library usage patterns over the decades. As a public library system responsible for serving a diverse and growing 5-county region, TRL’s leadership is committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of library services. This involves making strategic decisions that balance current community needs with future financial health.
TRL understands that recent decisions regarding the Naselle branch have sparked concern among some community members, but it is important to clarify that these changes are part of a broader effort to provide equitable service throughout our entire district. Many areas within our service region are not adequately served by a physical library building, despite taxpayers in these communities contributing to library funding. Our leadership is tasked with thinking creatively about how best to serve all our patrons, ensuring that those in under-served areas also benefit from the resources they help support.
Recent discussions have highlighted a difference of opinion on where TRL should prioritize resources. Some patrons prefer that physical branches receive the majority of funding and services, but TRL believes that investing in staffing physical locations should not be the only strategy for reaching residents in underserved areas. In today’s changing landscape, outreach to communities without access to a physical library is equally important.
We encourage community members to explore TRL’s Open Data Portal, where information on active cardholders, circulation statistics, internet use, and more is publicly available. This data allows us to make informed decisions about where resources and staffing are needed most. For example, in Naselle, circulation of physical items has declined by approximately 44% between 2013 and 2023, while digital checkouts have increased by 472% in the same period. This mirrors system-wide trends, where physical checkouts have decreased by 45% and digital checkouts have grown by 595%. These insights are critical to our efforts to responsibly manage taxpayer dollars and adjust services to meet evolving community needs.
Physical library branches remain a vital part of TRL’s service model, but they are also costly to maintain. In 2023, the Naselle branch cost TRL approximately $510,000 to operate, while generating $73,030 in local tax revenue. This equates to roughly $1,000 per active library user at the branch. As a public entity, TRL has a responsibility to ensure efficient and equitable use of taxpayer resources. We are committed to finding cost savings where possible, so we can continue to reach under-served communities.
One such initiative is the Anywhere Library, which brings library services directly to schools, food banks, senior centers, and other community hubs. This model allows TRL to serve residents in new and innovative ways, expanding access to library programs and materials without the need for a permanent physical building. With nearly 23,000 people spread across 1,000 square miles in Pacific County, the Anywhere Library is a crucial service that supplements existing branches like Naselle. As this program grows, more users who previously lacked access to library resources will benefit.
While TRL staff may not always be physically present at the Naselle branch, they remain available through live chat, phone, or at any of TRL’s 28 other branches. Naselle patrons will still enjoy full access to the library’s physical and digital collections, as well as tech help appointments, available 91 hours per week.
We recognize that change can be challenging, but in order to remain financially sustainable and continue serving future generations, TRL must explore new service models. By thinking creatively and adapting to the evolving needs of our communities, we will ensure that Timberland Regional Library continues to provide quality service to all residents for years to come.
