Mid Columbia Library presents annual report highlighting resident satisfaction and new programs

The West Richland City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, featured an insightful annual report from the Mid Columbia Library, presented by branch manager Amy Schmidt and library representative Sarah Schwann. The report highlighted the library's commitment to empowering the community through literacy, enrichment, and connection, emphasizing the importance of these goals in enhancing residents' lives.

One of the key takeaways from the presentation was the library's focus on connection, particularly in light of the community needs identified during the COVID-19 pandemic. The library aims to serve as a bridge between residents and various local resources, acknowledging the wealth of nonprofit services available in the area. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the library not only provides access to books and digital content but also fosters community engagement.

Financially, the library reported operational costs for 2024 at approximately $541,000, with the value of the West Richland branch's physical collection exceeding $900,000. Notably, West Richland residents are significant users of the library's digital offerings, which require careful management due to their higher maintenance costs compared to physical books.

The report also showcased impressive statistics regarding library usage. West Richland's branch is the third busiest in the system, with local residents checking out around 300,000 items last year, accounting for 30% of the total checkouts across the Mid Columbia Library system. This high engagement reflects the community's reliance on library services, with many residents expressing satisfaction in a recent survey—96% reported being satisfied with their library experience.

In addition to traditional library services, the report highlighted various programs aimed at enhancing literacy and community involvement, including story times and special events featuring therapy dogs, which have proven popular among patrons of all ages. The library's efforts to adapt and expand programming post-COVID have resulted in increased participation, with over 7,000 individuals attending events last year.

As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the library's vital role in the community and its ongoing efforts to meet the evolving needs of West Richland residents. The library's initiatives not only support individual learning and growth but also contribute to the overall well-being and connectivity of the community, aligning with the city's broader goals for public service and engagement.