[Libs-Or] OLA Board Moves to Support State Library

[Anne Billeter]

Yes, I applaud this swift and responsible decision.

Another longtime member of OLA.

Anne Billeter

On Wed, Nov 12, 2025 at 1:36 PM MaryKay Dahlgreen via Libs-Or <
libs-or at omls.oregon.gov> wrote:

> As a longtime member of OLA I would like to thank the OLA Board for coming
> together and making this contribution.
> MaryKay Dahlgreen
>
> On Nov 12, 2025, at 10:27 AM, Witteveen, April J via Libs-Or <
> libs-or at omls.oregon.gov> wrote:
>
> Dear OLA Community,
> As we continue to monitor the unpredictable nature of the ongoing federal
> government shutdown, the OLA Executive Board met on Sunday evening, 11/9,
> to discuss how we can support endangered staff and programs at the State
> Library of Oregon.
>
> If the government does not reopen by November 30, the LSTA funds that
> sustain the Library Services Division will be depleted. State Librarian
> Wendy Cornelisen informed OLA leaders that this would result in a shortfall
> of approximately $88,500 for December payroll, leading to layoff notices
> for ten staff members, effective November 30, 2025. These staff coordinate
> essential statewide programs and services such as Answerland, OSLIS,
> Library2Go, and consulting, training, and data services that Oregon
> libraries depend on every day.
>
> A state budget officer noted that foundation grants or private donations
> could be accepted to fill this funding gap, ensuring uninterrupted services
> through the end of the calendar year. With a quorum present and a unanimous
> vote, the OLA Board authorized me, as Board President, to:
> “Make a donation payment of up to $88,500 in express support of the
> salaries of ten Library Services Division staff who are facing layoff
>  effective November 30, 2025. OLA will seek additional funding resources to
> match or share in the total amount, including potential reimbursement from
> IMLS when and if drawdown funds become available.”
>
> While OLA hopes to identify a funding partner, we are prepared to make the
> full one-time donation if necessary. This timely action reflects our
> commitment to providing a temporary bridge that prevents layoffs and keeps
> vital statewide programs operating while the State Library and federal
> agencies work to restore access to LSTA funds.
>
> Looking ahead, OLA will continue collaborating with the State Library, the
> Governor’s Office, and other stakeholders to develop long-term strategies
> that protect essential library services from future disruptions. This
> includes advocating for stronger contingency planning, state-level funding
> for critical positions and programs, and clearer communication protocols
> during periods of fiscal uncertainty.
>
> Please feel free to reach out to me or Wendy if you have questions.
> Thank you,
> April
>
> April Witteveen
> Library Director
> Oregon State University – Cascades Campus
> Office: 541.706.2169
> Cascades Library Main Line: 541.322.2079
> Book a meeting with me!
> <https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/59ddb7857eda44a583f83cb5988c1814@osucascades.edu?anonymous&ismsaljsauthenabled&ep=plink>
> How do I pronounce my last name?
> <https://www.name-coach.com/april-witteveen>
>
>
>
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