NCW Libraries expand role as community hubs

WENATCHEE — Public libraries have long been places to borrow books, but NCW Libraries says today's branches have become something broader: community hubs where residents apply for jobs, attend citizenship classes, connect to telehealth appointments, use free internet, join educational programs and, in some communities, even pick up free meal kits.

That evolution is reflected throughout the library district's 2025 Annual Report, released Wednesday, documenting another year of strong public use across its 30 libraries serving Chelan, Douglas, Grant, Okanogan and Ferry counties.

North Central Washington residents visited NCW Libraries 660,437 times in 2025. Patrons borrowed more than 1.2 million books, e-books, audiobooks, movies and other materials, saving an estimated $17 million by using library resources instead of purchasing them.

"Behind every number in this report is a person. A student discovering a love of reading, a job seeker applying for work, or a family stretching their household budget," says Executive Director Barbara Walters. "Our region is rugged, remote, and resilient. In many places the library is one of the few public resources available to everyone."

The report highlights a wide range of services beyond traditional lending.

More than 57,000 people attended nearly 4,000 library programs in 2025, including Storytime, book clubs, writers' groups, citizenship classes, nature walks, ukulele lessons and craft activities. Another 6,909 children participated in the Summer Library Program.

Technology also remained a major part of library services. Public computers were used 136,737 times for job applications, schoolwork, bill payment and other needs, while free Wi-Fi was accessed more than 748,000 times. Online learning and research databases were used more than 84,000 times, and the district's Mail Order Library shipped more than 37,000 items directly to residents unable to visit a branch.

The report also points to partnerships that have expanded the role libraries play in their communities.

At the Republic Library, a partnership with Feeding Ferry County provides free meal kits and snacks during library hours. Meanwhile, the Community Bookmobile makes regular visits to the Wenatchee Rescue Mission, bringing books and library staff directly to patrons while creating opportunities for conversation and connection.

The district also continued providing spaces for services beyond reading. Ten meeting rooms and four teleservice rooms supported telehealth appointments, job interviews, meetings with caseworkers and other community uses throughout the year.

While highlighting another year of strong public engagement, the annual report also acknowledges growing financial pressures.

NCW Libraries operates on a $16.8 million general fund budget, with approximately 95% of its revenue coming from local property taxes. In 2025, however, property tax revenue increased by only about $346,000 while operating costs rose by roughly $552,000 because of higher insurance, materials and other expenses, creating a gap of more than $200,000.

The district noted that Washington law limits annual property tax revenue growth for public agencies, making it difficult for revenues to keep pace with rising costs.

Despite those challenges, the report says NCW Libraries remains committed to protecting the collections, technology access, educational programs and welcoming public spaces residents rely on throughout North Central Washington.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media