The Ashland Oregon Library, located in the heart of Ashland, Oregon, is a vital community hub that offers a wide range of resources, services, and programs for residents and visitors alike. With a rich history dating back to 1912, the library has evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of the community, while remaining committed to its mission of providing free and equal access to information, ideas, and entertainment.
History and Development
The Ashland Oregon Library was founded in 1912, with a collection of just over 1,000 books. The library was initially housed in a small room in the Ashland City Hall building, but as the collection grew, so did the need for a larger space. In 1915, the library moved to a new location on Main Street, where it remained until 1978. The current library building, located at 410 Siskiyou Boulevard, was opened in 1978 and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years to accommodate the growing needs of the community.
Collection and Resources
The Ashland Oregon Library boasts a diverse collection of over 120,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library also offers a wide range of digital resources, including online databases, e-books, and streaming services. Patrons can access these resources from the comfort of their own homes or on the go, using their library card and a computer or mobile device. The library’s collection is continually updated to reflect the changing interests and needs of the community, with a focus on popular fiction and nonfiction titles, as well as materials on local history and culture.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 90,000 |
| Audiobooks | 5,000 |
| E-books | 20,000 |
| Magazines and Newspapers | 500 |
| DVDs and CDs | 10,000 |
Programs and Services
The Ashland Oregon Library offers a wide range of programs and services for adults, children, and teens, including author readings, book clubs, children’s storytime, and teen advisory board meetings. The library also provides free Wi-Fi, computer access, and printing and scanning services. Patrons can also take advantage of the library’s interlibrary loan service, which allows them to borrow materials from other libraries across the state.
Children’s Services
The Ashland Oregon Library has a strong commitment to serving the needs of children and families. The library offers a variety of programs and services designed to promote early literacy and a love of reading, including storytime, book clubs, and summer reading programs. The library also has a large collection of children’s books, audiobooks, and DVDs, as well as online resources and databases specifically designed for kids.
- Storytime: weekly storytime sessions for children aged 0-5
- Book Clubs: monthly book clubs for children aged 6-12
- Summer Reading Program: annual summer reading program for children of all ages
Community Engagement
The Ashland Oregon Library is deeply committed to engaging with the local community and promoting literacy and a love of reading. The library partners with local schools, businesses, and organizations to provide programs and services that meet the needs of the community. The library also hosts a variety of events and exhibits throughout the year, including author readings, book festivals, and art exhibits.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Ashland Oregon Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, simply visit the library with a valid form of identification and proof of address. Library cards are free for residents of Ashland and Jackson County.
What resources are available for research and study?
+The Ashland Oregon Library offers a wide range of resources for research and study, including online databases, e-books, and streaming services. The library also has a large collection of books, journals, and other materials on a variety of subjects.
