Action Items & Tasks¶
Welcome to the Action Items page. Here you’ll find a running list of current tasks, volunteer opportunities, and committee action items. Clicking on a heading will take you to the action findings
Library District Research and Formation¶
Case Histories¶
- Contact Josephine County Library System about their post-defunding formation process
- Contact Wheeler County Library (Fossil) about their transition to the Umatilla County system
- Study Lake and Baker County Libraries' district structures and operations; inquire about joining their district
- Contact Harney County Library for potential partnership opportunities
- Research Oregon legal requirements for district formation in Grant County
Grant County Library (special) District¶
- What are the steps
- How funded
- Timelines
Building & Collections Retention¶
- Investigate with Grant County officials about building donation, sale, or lease to Foundation/new entity
- Assess if Foundation can receive/own property
- Identify alternative buildings in John Day if current building isn't viable
- Develop a plan for safeguarding the library's collection, especially unique historical items and microfiche
- Explore storage options if no building is secured immediately
Library Foundation & Legal¶
- Foundation board to vote/agree on providing a new "home" for the library
- Audit bylaws, finances, and legal standing; pivot mission to operating/sustaining the library
- Secure pro-bono/low-cost legal counsel experienced in non-profit/local government law
- Advise on legal pathways for property transfer/lease and collection ownership
Community Engagement & Fundraising¶
- Develop clear, compelling messages about the library's value and future
- Inform the community about upcoming meetings and engagement opportunities
- Launch an emergency fundraising campaign via the Foundation
- Research how to run a property tax levy (timing, millage rate)
- Identify potential grants, major donors, and community partners
- Contact State Representative Mark Owens and the State of Oregon Library Office for support
Future Operations & Budget Planning¶
- Research all-volunteer vs. hybrid staffing models
- Create detailed annual operating budget
- Analyze employment implications (state vs. foundation employees)
- Survey community needs for optimal hours and services
- Propose new schedule focused on accessibility (evenings, weekends)
- Plan enhanced programming: community events, children's programs, local history focus
- Develop membership/Friends programs and fee-for-service options
- Plan fundraising events and community partnerships
Technology & Communications¶
- Create professional library website with service information and volunteer sign-ups
- Establish social media presence for community engagement
- Set up online donation platform through Foundation
- Establish volunteer coordination system (messaging, email lists)
- Create community newsletter and event notification system
- Implement document sharing and team collaboration platform
- Plan library management software