The Douglas County Finance Committee convened on September 30, 2025, to discuss various topics, with a significant focus on the Douglas County Law Library and its evolving role in providing legal assistance to self-represented litigants.

The meeting began with Judge Shelley Stratman addressing the committee, highlighting the transformation of the law library into a self-help resource for individuals unable to afford legal representation. Judge Stratman emphasized that the library now serves as a crucial support system for those navigating legal processes, particularly in family law matters such as divorce and paternity cases. She commended the court administration staff for their efforts in enhancing the library's services over recent years.

Following Judge Stratman's remarks, Commissioner Kavanaugh expressed gratitude for the judge's insights and acknowledged the collaborative efforts between the court and the library. He noted the importance of the law library in facilitating access to justice, especially for those who cannot afford legal aid. Judge Stratman responded by explaining that while legal aid services are overwhelmed, the law library can provide quicker assistance for straightforward legal matters.

The discussion then shifted to the library's operational details, presented by a staff member. The library, established over a century ago, has seen a budget reduction to $75,000 for the current fiscal year, primarily allocated for periodicals and maintenance. The library has recorded a significant number of patrons, with 1,500 visits in the first quarter of the budget year, indicating a growing reliance on its services.

The committee learned that the law library offers unique resources not available elsewhere on the courthouse campus, including public computers, copy services, and legal document packets. These resources are vital for individuals representing themselves in court, as they often lack access to necessary information and tools. The library's ability to generate revenue through copy fees was also highlighted, contributing to its operational budget.

Commissioner Kavanaugh and other members of the committee recognized the law library's essential role in the justice system, particularly for self-represented litigants. They underscored the need for continued support and resources to maintain the library's services, which are crucial for ensuring equitable access to legal assistance in Douglas County.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of the law library and a commitment to exploring ways to enhance its services further, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for the community.