The Orcas Island Public Library is seeking a new trustee who begin serving a five-year term on Jan. 1, 2023. A review of applications will begin on Nov. 7, 2022.

As the trustees’ handbook states, “Throughout our nation’s history, the public library has offered free and equal access to the collected knowledge, information, and history of our culture.” Serving as a trustee for the Orcas Public Library enables an individual to contribute to an institution that is available for everyone.

The board comprises five members who plan the direction of library services, oversee library policies, and oversee the library’s expenditure of funds. The board represents the library to the community, and the community to the library. The library is organized as an independent junior taxing district, with its trustees appointed by the San Juan County Council.

Serving on the Library Board requires a talent for teamwork, along with a belief in the culture and tradition of public libraries. We are particularly interested in candidates committed to being good stewards of public resources, with the passion and skills to help us shape the library’s always-evolving mission in the community through its programming and services.

A trustee’s time commitment includes monthly meetings plus occasional committee work. Meetings are scheduled by the Board at the beginning of each year to accommodate other priorities as appropriate.

If you are interested in serving as a library trustee, please submit a statement of interest and a resume to Ingrid Mattson, Library Director, at imattson@orcaslibrary.org or in person at the Library. Final appointment is made by the County Council.