Salem Public Library System is a tremendous cultural and educational asset to our capital city. We love our libraries, and we know our citizens love and benefit from them. Every day that they’re open, an average of 2,500 Salem area residents visit our libraries to benefit from the cultural, educational, and informational resources it offers.

But Salem Public Library System has suffered. As the City of Salem budget tightens, and demands on that budget expand, the city no longer has the means to provide the library service that Salem deserves.

Our capital city should have libraries open every day of the week. A Salem Public Library District is the best way to make that happen.

Our capital city should have a library system with the resources to put a bounty of new books, music, and movies on the shelves for you to use. A Salem Public Library District is the best way to assure that happens.

Our capital city should have a library system alive with an exciting array of cultural and educational programs for children and adults. A Salem Public Library District is the best way to ensure that these programs continue in the future.

Our capital city should have extended access to library services through the West Salem Branch and the bookmobile. A Salem Public Library District is the best way to provide stable funding for these important services.

It’s difficult for the City to consider separating from our libraries, but we’re thinking first of the benefits this new district will provide to those who live in the Salem area.

We urge you to vote YES for the Salem Public Library District.

Janet Taylor, Mayor

Kasia Quillinan, Ward 1 Councilor

Jim Randall, Ward 2 Councilor

Brad Nanke, Ward 3 Councilor

Rick Stucky, Ward 5 Councilor

Bruce Rogers, Ward 6 Councilor

Brent DeHart, Ward 7 Councilor

Dan Clem, Ward 8 Councilor

Statement paid for from personal funds of Mayor and Councilors.

(This information provided by Rick Stucky,
Salem City Council)