The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce has issued a public call for unity and cooperation in the ongoing lease negotiations for the Grants Pass branch library. The Chamber is urging the Josephine County Board of Commissioners to prioritize collaboration and transparency as they address the future of the library’s home at 200 NW C Street.
The current lease agreement with the Josephine Community Library District (JCLD) was recently terminated by a unanimous vote from the Board of Commissioners. The decision was attributed to mounting maintenance costs for the building and other county properties. However, the move has sparked community concern over the potential impact on library services, a cornerstone of public life in Grants Pass.
In its statement, the Chamber emphasized the critical role that the library plays in the local community. Beyond its primary function as a repository of books and information, the Grants Pass library is a hub for education, economic development, and community engagement. It provides access to essential resources for residents of all ages and backgrounds, supporting literacy, lifelong learning, and cultural enrichment.
“Libraries are cornerstones of thriving communities,” the Chamber stated, “contributing to economic development, literacy, and quality of life.”
The Chamber acknowledged the County’s responsibility for fiscal stewardship but stressed the importance of addressing these concerns through a fair and deliberative process that prioritizes the well-being of the community.
The Chamber also referenced the Commissioners’ campaign promises, which centered on themes of collaboration, communication, and unity under the banner of “Unity in Our Community.” These principles, the Chamber believes, should serve as guiding values in resolving the lease dispute.
A key point raised by the Chamber is the County Charter’s Section 14.5, which mandates the Board of Commissioners to provide for the support and maintenance of the library system, including its main branch and other locations.
The Chamber is encouraging the Board to engage in transparent and respectful discussions with JCLD to establish a new lease agreement that ensures the continued operation of the library. Such a solution would uphold the community’s shared values and maintain the integrity of library services.
“The Chamber is committed to supporting both the County and the Library in this process,” the statement continued, “and stands ready to facilitate dialogue and partnership to achieve a resolution that upholds the integrity and accessibility of our cherished community library services.”
As negotiations proceed, all eyes are on the Board of Commissioners and the Josephine Community Library District to work collaboratively toward a resolution. The outcome will not only determine the future of the Grants Pass library but also serve as a litmus test for the community’s ability to navigate challenges through unity and cooperation.
For more information or updates on the library lease discussions, contact the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce.
