Who We Are
ABOUT BAKER COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT
MISSION
The Baker County Library provides free public library service through books and other resources, for education, information and recreation to all residents of Baker County.
HISTORY
The Baker County Library District serves residents across the county as an independent special district governed by a five-member elected board.
Library service in Baker County began in 1901, when the Alpha Club established a public library to enrich the local community. This early effort grew significantly with the support of philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, whose $25,000 gift funded the construction of a Carnegie library building in 1909. With a support commitment from the city, the institution became known as the Baker City Public Library.
In 1964, the library expanded its reach by becoming a department of Baker County. A few years later, in 1971, it relocated from the original Carnegie building near City Hall to a new facility adjacent to Geiser-Pollman Park.
During the mid-1980s, the library faced severe budget cuts that threatened its future. In response, a grassroots citizen campaign mobilized to preserve and strengthen library services. Their efforts culminated in May 1988, when voters approved a permanent tax base, establishing the Baker County Library District as an independent government entity.
Community support has remained strong ever since. In 1998, voters approved a bond measure to renovate the main library and its five branch locations. Continued investment followed in 2006 with the passage of a five-year local option levy to support operating costs. This levy has been consistently renewed by voters, ensuring sustainable, county-wide library service.
In recognition of its excellence and impact, Library Journal named the Baker County Library District one of the “Best Small Libraries in America” in 2010.
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