Thank you for your engagement with our libraries! We’ve endured quite the year, experiencing both highs and lows in 2025. We face some tough decisions in light of recent events, but we remain hopeful for our communities moving forward. Our libraries remain one of the worthiest investments as we regularly foster connections throughout the community, make space and important resources available to anyone, and assist wider regional efforts. With your support, we’ll be able to continue making a difference throughout our area. We hope you’ll consider donating to help us reach our $30,000 goal to fund our critical services.

We launched a countywide referendum effort this year with intentions to guarantee sustainable library funding and expand reach throughout the county to the benefit of all residents. Despite overall support for libraries, our campaign failed to succeed due to voter opposition to the tax proposal. We’ve also lost commitments from several more municipalities, school districts and the county government, putting further strain on our budget and risk to your future library access. Sadly, this means we’re faced with tough consequences to maintain the best level of library services we can promise and that the community expects.

As a result, it is with heavy hearts and great disappointment that we will cease operations at our ORLA branch in Cooperstown beginning January, 2026. However, all users will be able to retain their library access at our locations in Oil City and Franklin, or through our robust digital offerings. This was never one of our intentions, but an unfortunate outcome of our funding and ability to adequately serve. While we face immediate challenges, we look forward to offering the best services we can. In large part, it will be driven by your support.

2025 also offered some great enhancements to our services. The Oil City Library renovated the historic 2nd floor Library Hall, offering the community an amazing cultural event center and booking space. In September, the Gatsby Ball and other events reintroduced the space to our community, showcasing all of its potential. It will be available for private bookings in 2026 in addition to public programs. Franklin Public Library also launched new programs and new collections. Highlights include the partnership with ARC of Clarion and Venango Counties, lending outdoor recreational materials to our patrons, and our new Inclusive Connections program, which creates a safe space for adults with disabilities and their caregivers. We look forward to even more opportunities in 2026.

Today more than ever, we know that our libraries are worth it. No other provider can match the scope of access to services and resources. Over the years, your support has established our standing as a pillar of our community. We remain fully committed to serving you and know your continued support will help drive our efforts to provide the best library services that can be offered. Thank you for your interest and consideration in supporting our cause.