The Future of JCLS

August 2024

In July 2024, JCLS concluded the year-long planning process that assessed the current condition of our facilities and resulted in a Facilities Master Plan to address the space and facilities needs for the next 15-20 years. Consultants from Group 4 Architects gathered information through a variety of engagement strategies, including community surveys and listening sessions, input from library staff, and a strategic visioning session with community stakeholders. All of this feedback was incorporated into the final report, which was presented by Group 4 Architecture at the July 15 Board Meeting. 

All of JCLS’ facilities were built or significantly renovated in the 2000s after the passage of a bond measure. Our buildings have generally been well-maintained over the past two decades, and even though they see many visitors and high circulation, they still look remarkably fresh and welcoming. However, many will be due for maintenance and updates over the next decade as building systems and finishes reach the end of their expected useful life and to address wear and tear from high levels of library use, especially with expected population growth. Maintenance and renovation is recommended for the majority of JCLS’ facilities. Expansion is recommended for three locations where there is a particular need for significant additional space.

The most significant expansion is recommended in the Central Point community, building a new facility that would more than double the space of the existing library. At the Butte Falls Library, it may be possible to expand by adding a new wing onto the existing building. The Plan recommends expanding or building a new library, depending on the feasibility of expanding at its existing location. The Plan also explores the possibility of adding an extended access point in Ashland as well as a centrally located operations center. Please see the full report, which can be viewed in full by clicking the link to the right.

We look forward to building a strong and vibrant future for libraries in Jackson County with the help of our community.

April 2024

On April 16th a Community Listening Session for the JCLS Facilities Master Plan took place. Group4 summarized the research they had done to date and provided preliminary findings on future facility needs for JCLS in 10-15 years. This event was held in the Large Meeting Room in Medford, and live-streamed to branches around the district. Staff then facilitated Q&A discussions with attendees at each branch. You can view the video to the right.

February 2024

Strategic Visioning Workshop

A Strategic Visioning Workshop was held on February 15, 2024, which gathered stakeholders from around Jackson County for an interactive and creative event featuring facilitated hands-on activities and discussions. A full summary of the workshop can be found here.

The Project Management Team met with Group 4 consultants for a progress update. Group 4 has visited all fifteen branches, reviewed information collected from surveys and from talking with staff, and put together some growth projections and targets for collection and square footage requirements to meet the growth demands.

November 2023

A Community Survey went live on the JCLS website on Wednesday, November 29^th, and remained available through the end of the year. In addition to the online survey, the library invited community members to participate in a pop-up survey that was held at various community events and locations throughout the county.