The Historical Development of Library Policy in the State of Oregon: Discussions on Library Management by Special Districts

Abstract

Current literature has discussed various arguments regarding library districts. However, these have not detailed the basis of approval for each state’s special public library management districts. Therefore, this study clarifies the historical discussions on the formation of library districts that were permitted in 1981 by Oregon state law. Regarding the research method, we conducted an extensive literature search centered on primary materials. From the late 1950s to the early 1960s, there were concerns that if the state allowed the formation of library districts, it would hinder the formation of larger and more efficient library systems and fragment public services. During this period, citizens’ groups demanded that special districts manage libraries under state law, and the state government was concerned that intergovernmental relationships would become more complicated. As a solution to this problem, the state government enabled county service districts to provide library services in 1973. However, this management model was not widespread in Oregon; in spite of the county service district’s tax authority, it did not allow residents to elect board members. The formation of library districts was later approved in 1981 to address financial difficulties. However, the 1981 law was problematic, and the advantages and disadvantages of library districts in the local administration had not been carefully discussed due to financial deterioration in governmental sectors.