Winston library placed in two-year recovery by state over staffing shortfall; city may be asked for help

A representative of the Friends of the Winston Library told the Winston City Council on June 15 that the Oregon State Library now requires part-time employees to work at least 20 hours per week and that the Winston Library’s current part-time employee is scheduled for 12 hours per week. As a result, the library will enter "recovery" status on July 1, 2026 and has two years to meet minimum staffing and other conditions or face termination of its public library recognition.

"Our employee right now who only puts in 12 hours a week... The library has 2 years beginning on 07/01/2026 to recover and meet the minimum conditions," the library representative said, explaining the deadline and the potential loss of access to statewide services such as the Ready to Read grant, E-rate eligibility and LSTA-funded grants if the conditions are not met.

The library representative said the current employee is willing to add hours and that the library can sustain the additional payroll for a while but may eventually need city assistance. The speaker estimated the additional annual cost at roughly $5,000 but said staff will bring more detailed information to the city before the next fiscal year.

City staff and councilors asked clarifying questions about grant availability and timelines; staff said the city’s director will gather more information and the library likely will approach the city before the next fiscal year if needed.

Next step: Library and city staff will follow up with more precise cost estimates and possible assistance options before the end of the fiscal year.