Jackson County Library Services Competitors

Perfectly placed in the Willamette Valley, 90 miles south of Portland and 40 miles north of Eugene, Benton County has easy access to urban areas with ample opportunities for cultural activities. Combined with outdoor recreation galore in the Cascade Range 80 miles to the east and the Coastal Range and the Pacific Ocean 50 miles west, the county’s 90,000 residents like to say they “have it all.” Voters elect three County Commissioners and a Sheriff to four-year terms. The District Attorney is also elected to a four-year term and is a state official. The County Commissioners are assisted in their administrative responsibilities by the County Administrator, who is responsible for implementing County policy, managing operations, budget, and supervising Department Directors. With a ’21-’23 total budget of approximately $349.8 million and 564 employees, Benton County provides a breadth of services through its departments of Assessment, Board of Commissioners, Community Development, District Attorney, Fairgrounds, Records and Elections, Financial Services, Health Centers, Health Department, Human Resources, Information Technology, Juvenile, Natural Areas and Parks, Public Works, and the Sheriff’s Office. In addition to Oregon State University and local entrepreneurship, Benton County’s economy is driven by the tech and health industries and regional agriculture. Traditionally, county Ag has focused on grass seed, Christmas trees, wine grapes, seed crops, organic produce, lumber, sheep, cattle and dairy, but recent years have seen large upswing in hazelnuts and marijuana. The community’s passion for supporting a thriving local economy allow the county to boast chefs, restaurateurs, winemakers, brewmasters and distilleries committed to locally grown ingredients with a strong focus on sustainability.

Our Mission: Residents of Deschutes County freely and openly access ideas and information to enrich their lives through literature, other cultural resources and life-long learning consistent with the wise application of the funds and other resources of the District. Our Core Values: 1. Service Excellence – We are friendly, progressive and exceed expectations. We create multiple ways for people to connect and access information and resources. 2. New Ideas – We inspire ourselves and others by seeking innovation in customer service, technology, systems and staff development. 3. Accountability – We promote trust, collaboration and leadership at all levels. We ensure fiscal integrity, operating efficiencies and responsible stewardship. 4. Intellectual Freedom – We value differences, protect confidentiality and provide free and equal access to library resources and facilities without judgment or bias. 5. Lifelong Learning – We create library experiences for all ages that promote creativity and cultural enrichment. We promote learning, respect for different views, personal enlightenment and connecting with others. 6. Staff Investment – We empower staff to create positive library experiences, foster cohesive working relationships and develop professionally. We recognize and celebrate staff accomplishments and achievements.

Founded in 1864 and headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Multnomah County Library is a public library system offering books, magazines, DVD's, and computers.