November 21, 2007

Timberland Regional Library responds to Gov. Gregoire’s request to support 1% limit increase in property taxes

The Timberland Regional Library (TRL), which provides public library services to nearly half a million patrons in five Western Washington counties has determined it is prudent to follow Governor Gregoire’s recommendation to hold the line at a 1% increase in the property taxes it receives.

In spite of the restriction on revenues, TRL is planning to increase open hours in 2008 in current libraries which show a need, thereby maintaining service levels to residents in these communities which are growing at a rapid rate. With increased hours, and higher costs in medical benefits and PERS retirement programs, TRL must utilize a portion of its cash reserves to support these improvements in public service and staff benefits.

Currently TRL has more than 350,000 library cardholders and a collection of over 1.6 million items. The Library provides answers to over 3.5 million queries for information each year. Patrons enjoy thousands of programs and check out nearly 5 million items annually from TRL locations. 　

Timberland Regional Library serves the information, reading and lifelong learning needs of the Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston county public at 27 community public libraries and 7 library service partner locations. The library system is funded by local property taxes. For information on any subject, people can telephone Timberland’s Central Reference Service librarians toll-free at 1-800-562-6022. Or they can visit the TRL Web site at www.trlib.org. Anyone needing special accommodations to participate in a library’s program may contact the library one week in advance.

Revised 11/24/07