Okanogan County Commissioners are seeking applications for an Okanogan County Representative for NCW Libraries’ Board of Trustees to the complete the term of trustee Jill Sheley, who plans to step down in June of this year. Sheley’s term ends 12/31/2027 at which time the qualified candidate will be eligible for reappointment to a 7-year term by the Okanogan County Commissioners.
Our board is composed of 7 members who are appointed by joint resolutions of the commissioners who represent the five counties in our service area: Chelan, Douglas, Grant, Okanogan, and Ferry Counties.
“We are incredibly grateful to each of our Board members for their commitment to public library services. Jill Sheley has represented Okanogan County on our board since 2020 and has been an incredible asset. We will miss her voice and leadership when she steps down in June,” said Barbara Walters, our Executive Director.
Our board understands that public library service is critical to the health and vitality of our region. They are passionate about our mission – to connect the people of NCW to vital resources and opportunities that foster individual growth and strengthen communities. They affirm our Freedom to Read statement and seek to uphold our policies and guidelines that protect intellectual freedom.
“Libraries are the heart of a community, where knowledge, connection, and imagination thrive. Boards, at their best, amplify this impact by guiding and supporting the mission with passion and purpose. When done with dedication, board service isn’t just meaningful – it’s a rewarding and even fun way to make a lasting difference, helping others discover the joy and power of learning,” said Jill Sheley.
Our board serves as the governing body for the library district, including policy and legislative direction. We employ 218 staff and have an annual operating budget of $16M to provide public library service through 30 library locations, a Mail Order Library, a robust website, and a Community Bookmobile.
Trustees may fill a vacated partial term, in addition to serving for up to two seven-year terms. Board positions are volunteer with no financial compensation. Trustees traveling on library business, including attending monthly board meetings, are eligible for mileage reimbursement, meal per diems, and overnight lodging in accordance with library policy and at the approval of the Executive Director.
Our board meets monthly at our administrative office building in Wenatchee. Board members can participate in person or online through Zoom. Trustees advocate for the library district in their communities and in the county they represent, keeping local officials and stakeholders updated on library initiatives.
Qualifications
Applicants for this position must be an Okanogan County resident or own property in the county. The district is seeking applicants with a variety of skill sets including strategic thinking, organizational leadership, financial oversight, governance, legal compliance, stakeholder engagement, and library advocacy. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for libraries and public service.
How to Apply
Interested residents should email their resume, and letter of interest to Lanie Johns at ljohns@co.okanogan.wa.us.
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