Library reports double makerspace use and new teen internship grant amid robust community programs

Library Director Suzanne told the board the library’s makerspace program and community events are expanding, with usage doubling in February from the previous year.

"We doubled the number of users, in February from last year. We went from 44 to 98," Suzanne said, adding a breakdown of 77 adults, 16 teens and 15 children and noting that 3D printers and the Glowforge remain the most-used equipment.

Suzanne reported the library received a teen internship grant and will employ teen interns this summer to assist with TAB (teen advisory board) programming and other teen-focused activities. She also described upcoming programs: the second 'We Wigglers' session, an April 28 Oregon Humanities conversation, and a volunteer partnership with the Columbia County Authors Alliance for an America 250 anthology.

On heritage work, Suzanne said Brenda will visit the University of Oregon in April to collaborate with the Museum Association on archival inventory under an Oregon Heritage grant; staff are also following up with contacts at Grand Ronde to identify the appropriate tribal partners.

Committee member Kelsey reminded the board that Otto Peterson School will host the regional Oregon Battle of the Books on March 14 and asked for volunteers to serve as scorekeepers and runners; board members agreed to circulate a volunteer link.

The board recorded these program updates and listed action follow-ups: sharing an anthology flyer, distributing information on library services for advocacy materials, and the director’s outreach to a state library consultant to restart the strategic plan review.