[Libs-Or] State Library rulemaking notice - Public library minimum conditions

[NIELSEN Buzzy * SLO]

Hi folks,

Below my signature, please find notice of a proposed rule change to the public library minimum conditions. There is also a notice of a public hearing attached. The public library minimum conditions<https://libguides.osl.state.or.us/minconpublibs> for official state recognition (and therefore eligibility for the annual Ready to Read grant<https://libguides.osl.state.or.us/readytoreadgrant>) were modified by the Oregon Legislature in House Bill 2243<https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2019R1/Measures/Overview/HB2243> in 2019 and implemented by the State Library of Oregon in Oregon Administrative Rule 543-101-0036<https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/viewSingleRule.action?ruleVrsnRsn=262857>, "Official Recognition of Public Libraries".

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for flexibility for libraries that cannot meet the minimum conditions due to circumstances outside their control. Recognizing this, the State Library Board implemented a temporary rule effective 6/23/2021 through 12/19/2021 delaying implementation of the rules, as the pandemic prevented many libraries from operating at full capacity.

Subsequent emergencies, such as the 2020 Labor Day Fires, have demonstrated the need for more permanent rules permitting the State Library Board to grant waivers to the minimum conditions in future situations. While no officially recognized public libraries were lost in the 2020 fires, the volunteer-run Blue River Community Library burnt down, preventing them from delivering services to their community.

Future such emergencies are not inconceivable, including fires, flood, earthquakes, tsunamis, and pandemics. The State Library Board would like the flexibility to grant waivers to affected libraries so as not to further hamper their ability to provide services in already challenging times.

Please direct any comments about this proposed rule change to our Chief Operating Officer Susan Westin, susan.westin at slo.oregon.gov<mailto:susan.westin at slo.oregon.gov>. General questions about the minimum conditions themselves can be directed to Public Library Consultant Darci Hanning, darci.hanning at slo.oregon.gov<mailto:darci.hanning at slo.oregon.gov>.

Cheers!

Buzzy Nielsen, MPP, MSI (he/him/his)
Program Manager, Library Support & Development Services
State Library of Oregon
buzzy.nielsen at slo.oregon.gov | 971-375-3486
www.oregon.gov/library/libraries<https://www.oregon.gov/library/libraries>
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[Logo for the Library Support & Development Services division at the State Library of Oregon]<http://www.oregon.gov/library/libraries>


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This e-mail message provides the notice of State Library of Oregon rulemaking required by Oregon Administrative Rules 543-001-0000 (3).

Caption: Waivers for emergencies regarding minimum conditions for public libraries

Rule Summary:  Amendment to OAR 543-010-0036 which will allow the State Library Board to grant waivers to public libraries who cannot meet the minimum conditions for establishment due to circumstances outside their control.

Attachment:  Attached is a copy of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking which includes the need for the rule, statement identifying how adoption of rules will affect racial equity in the state, fiscal and economic impact, and cost of compliance.


The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Filing are also available on the State Library's website at: State Library of Oregon : Administrative Rules : State Library of Oregon : State of Oregon<https://www.oregon.gov/library/operations/Pages/Administrative-Rules.aspx>

How to comment:  You may comment on the proposed rules through April 15, 2022 using the following methods:

Mail:     send written comments to:
Susan Westin
State Library of Oregon
250 Winter Street NE
Salem, OR 97301

E-mail: send comments by email to susan.westin at slo.oregon.gov.<mailto:susan.westin at slo.oregon.gov.>


Rulemaking hearing:  You may also provide oral or written comments at the rulemaking hearing, which will take place:

                Date:     Friday, April 15, 2022
                Time:     10:00 am
              Place:     The hearing will be held during the State Library Board meeting via Zoom.  For access
                               information, contact Susan Westin at the email above.
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