Local Libraries Appreciate Community Support

For Immediate Release: Thursday, November 04, 2010

Washington County, Oregon: On Tuesday, November 2nd Washington County voters approved the Washington County Cooperative Library Services (WCCLS) library operating levy. Unofficial returns as of November 3 gave the levy a 66% approval. With just over 175,000 votes cast, the library community is delighted with this show of support from Washington County voters. According to Eva Calcagno, Director of the Cooperative Library Services, "we recognize that voters were faced with multiple funding measures and we truly appreciate their willingness to reinvest in libraries".

The renewal of the local option levy, Measure 34-180, means that funding from the approved levy will continue countywide operating support at the same rate of 17¢ per $1,000 of assessed value for the next five years, beginning July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2016.

Following the election returns Calcagno remarked, "the passage of the library levy is a fabulous affirmation from voters that they are pleased with library service and believe that public libraries are vital to our communities. The American Library Association President refers to public libraries as "first responders" in an economic crisis - providing the tools to help people find jobs, further their education, and support free, family entertainment. We feel very fortunate that in the current economy we have been entrusted with continued financial support for the next 5 years so that we can continue the services and programs our patrons rely on".

The Washington County Cooperative Library Services (WCCLS), includes the: Banks Public Library, Beaverton City Library, Beaverton City Library @ Murray Scholls, Cedar Mill Community Library, Cedar Mill Community Library @ Bethany, Cornelius Public Library, Forest Grove City Library, Garden Home Community Library, Hillsboro Public Libraries (Main and Shute Park), North Plains Public Library, Sherwood Public Library, Tigard Public Library, Tualatin Public Library, and West Slope Community Library.

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