[Libs-Or] Update on People for Oregon Libraries

[Webster, Janet]

People for Oregon Libraries:  A status report

People for Oregon Libraries is a political action committee (PAC), filed with the Oregon Secretary of State.  The PAC endorses and makes campaign contributions to state legislative candidates who support libraries and to local library campaigns on request.

The Board of Directors includes OLA leadership, but the PAC is a separate legal entity from OLA.  Current PAC board members are Michele Burke, Abigail Elder, Penny Hummel, and Janet Webster, the past and current OLA presidents and the co-chairs of the OLA Library Development and Legislative Committee.   Nan Heim is the treasurer.

In recent years, People for Oregon Libraries PAC contributions and endorsements have gone to
support legislators who helped pass our school library bill, supported Ready to Read, defended freedom of expression, or helped libraries in other ways. The PAC has also endorsed and supported new candidates for the Legislature.

People for Oregon Libraries PAC contributions do not buy votes.  We believe that our contributions, and the accompanying endorsement, gain good will for libraries, and show appreciation for those who have supported libraries.

What has the PAC done in 2013?
So far in 2013, 12 people have contributed to People for Oregon Libraries PAC, with contributions ranging from $50 to $200.

The PAC has contributed a total of $550 this year to the campaigns of four incumbent State Representatives: Phil Barnhart, Mike McLane, Vicki Berger and Jeff Barker.  These legislators all meet the PAC’s criteria for supporting incumbents: they are in leadership position and have demonstrated support for libraries.

People for Oregon Libraries PAC has a current balance of $1,993.93.  The PAC will make more campaign contributions in 2014 because it is an election year.

Is the PAC’s financial information public?
Yes! As PAC treasurer, Nan Heim reports all contributions and expenditures to the Secretary of State, as required by state law.  Only those who contribute $100 or more to the PAC are identified by name.  To see People for Oregon Libraries PAC reports, visit the Secretary of State’s web site: sos.oregon.gov/elections.  Click on Elections, then on Follow the Money in ORESTAR.  Next click on Search for Committee by Name.  Enter People for Oregon Libraries.  Finally, click on Campaign Finance Activity at the bottom.

How can I support People for Oregon Libraries PAC?
It’s easy!  Go to https://rally.org/peoplefororegonlibrariespac/donate

If you prefer, mail your check to People for Oregon Libraries PAC, c/o Nan Heim, 833 SW 11th Ave., #315, Portland OR 97205.  If you contribute before December 31, you can take your contribution as a credit on your 2013 tax return, up to $100 on a joint return and $50 on a single return.

Find us at:
http://pfolpac.weebly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/PeopleforOregonLibrariesPAC

Contact Nan Heim or Janet Webster with questions or concerns.

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Janet Webster
 541-867-0108
Janet.webster at oregonstate.edu
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