Fewer taxes because of Columbia Pulp closure reduces library district revenue

DAYTON–Some 2025 budget items were cut because the closure of Columbia Pulp meant the overall allotment to the Columbia County Rural Library District was reduced by 0.6% compared to last year, but trustees approved the 2025 budget Oct. 21, including the allowed 1% increase over last year, which brings the annual budget to just over $500,000.

The district may consider taking some or all of any banked capacity from not taking its full portion during previous years, but Director Ellen Brigham will be meeting with County Assessor Tammy Ketterman to discuss options to present to commissioners.

In other business, the Board discussed tracking library patronage and options available for more reliably counting how many people use the library for various purposes. One attendee later commented the Board should consider the purpose of counting.

The Board also discussed reviewing its bylaws, including the addition of content about Trustees attending meetings remotely. The board had received one or more letters questioning the long-term remote attendance by Trustee Jay Ball. During the public comments, one attendee said that being on the board requires commitment and that board member attendance should be mandatory.

Trustee Dale Walling said should they choose to limit remote attendance by board members, he would support it for those appointed going forward, but not in Ball's case. Brigham warned that adding restrictions to remote attendance may bring legal action because of discrimination. Later, one attendee suggested the director not defer to warnings of lawsuits without credibility.

Another topic of discussion was eResources. Brigham explained the challenges libraries face as the demand increases. Libraries pay a license for limited uses of each resource. She said because of being small, the Dayton Memorial library pays a lesser amount than larger libraries. One challenge is the added cost of leasing titles beyond those listed in the consortium of digital resource databases. New releases cost more and the wait to access them can sometimes be three months. The library uses three digital databases – Libby by Overdrive, The Palace Project and EBSCO.

During the public comment portion of the meeting two attendees complimented the board in appreciation of the positive communication when addressing public comments and concerns.