Group aims at reopening libraries
A new, private nonprofit corporation has been formed with the intention of reopening and running the Josephine County public libraries.
The ad hoc citizens group, formerly known as “Josephine Library Team” or “JoLT,” has received its incorporation papers under the name, “Josephine Community Libraries.” The organization now is able to recruit and establish the permanent board of directors and to accept donations toward the reopening and operation of area libraries.
“We’re thrilled with the progress we’ve made in the past month,” said Cathye Mason, chairman of the steering committee for the libraries organization.
This effort began with a public meeting in late July during which volunteers stepped forward to study the feasibility of operating the libraries as a public-private partnership with the county. Rogue Community College Foundation has since agreed to accept contributions on behalf of Josephine Community Libraries while the latter awaits its nonprofit designation from the IRS, which can take up to a year.
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Tax-Deductible Donations Can Be Made in Support
“This allows people to make contributions now that will be tax-deductible,” said Mason. Checks or money orders can be out to “RCC Foundation/Josephine Community Libraries.” Only checks or money orders, and not cash, can be accepted. Contributions should be mailed to Josephine Community Libraries, P.O. Box 1684, Grants Pass OR 97528.
While the organization is developing its budget, it hopes to raise at least $300,000 to be eligible for matching funds from Josephine County. Earlier this month, the board of county commissioners voted to establish a $300,000 matching grant that can be made available to a qualified nonprofit organization for library operations.
As part of its plan for long-term sustainability and widespread citizen support, Josephine Community Libraries (JCL) anticipates forming a patron structure similar to that of public broadcasting.
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“In this model, library donors would make yearly contributions to provide for operations,” Mason said. “However, the libraries would be accessible to everyone at no charge.”
JCL volunteers now are setting their sights on establishing the organization’s official board of directors.
“We are looking for community leaders who have a passion to open and operate the library on a long-term basis,” Mason said. She added that board members should represent a range of experience in the areas of administration, finance, law, fund-raising, and nonprofit governance. Candidates can send an e-mail message to josephinelibrary@hotmail.com or phone board nomination coordinator Doug Walker at 660-2178.
Oregon State Librarian Jim Scheppke met with members of the steering committee, as well as volunteers working on fund-raising, publicity, budgetary, and legal matters Tuesday, Oct. 4.
Every Tuesday at 7 p.m., the JCL steering committee continues to hold its business meetings to which the public is always invited.
Mason said that the JCL mission is to facilitate the opening and to ensure long-term operations of a public library system serving Josephine County, while adhering to its core values of integrity, credibility, and accountability. People interested in getting involved with the library reopening effort can e-mail josephinelibrary@hotmail.com.
