Jackson County Library District highlights service growth and community engagement

In the heart of Medford's city hall, a gathering of community leaders and residents came together on March 19, 2025, to discuss vital updates from the Jackson County Library District. Marta Terrance, a board member, and Carrie May, the library director, took center stage to share the library's recent achievements and future goals, emphasizing the institution's role as a cornerstone of community engagement and education.

Terrance opened the presentation by highlighting the library's significance as a major employer in the region, serving residents across its 15 branches. Celebrating a century of service, the library district has evolved into a vital resource, supported by a dedicated property tax mill levy. The statistics shared were impressive: over 1.3 million physical items circulated and more than 460,000 digital items accessed in the past year alone. The library hosted 2,150 programs, attracting over 46,000 attendees, showcasing its commitment to fostering community connections.

May elaborated on the library's strategic goals, which focus on enhancing services and expanding access. Notably, the library has increased its operating hours by nearly 40%, now open seven days a week, and has introduced innovative solutions like holds pickup lockers for convenient access to materials. The outreach initiatives, including partnerships with local schools and mobile technology services, aim to bridge gaps in access and support community needs.

Addressing past concerns about the downtown library's safety, May reported improved relations with local law enforcement, attributing this progress to enhanced security measures implemented two years ago. The library's efforts to create a welcoming environment were underscored by a recent Pi Day event that drew families together for creative activities, reinforcing the library's role as a hub for community interaction.

As the presentation concluded, the council members expressed gratitude for the library's contributions, with one member sharing personal appreciation for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides free books to children. The meeting transitioned to public comments, where community members were invited to voice their thoughts and suggestions, further emphasizing the importance of civic engagement in shaping Medford's future.

The discussions at this meeting not only highlighted the library's achievements but also set the stage for ongoing collaboration between the library and the city, ensuring that Medford remains a vibrant community where residents can access knowledge, resources, and support.