About the Library
Cathlamet Public Library, formally known as Cathlamet Blanche Bradley Public Library, began as a project of the Cathlamet Women’s Club in 1931. In addition, to providing space for the library, the Town appropriates 85-95% of the library’s annual operating budget. Other funding sources include Wahkiakum County, Blanche Bradley Memorial Library Foundation and miscellaneous grant-makers.
The Town Librarian, a .4 fte position, is appointed by a five-member volunteer governing board. Those Trustees are appointed to staggered terms of office by the Mayor. Their appointments are ratified by the Cathlamet Town Council.
The library’s service area includes all of Wahkiakum County. Most users come from Puget Island, Skamokawa and the Elochoman Valley, as well as the Town of Cathlamet.
In addition, the in-kind annual contribution of library volunteers is roughly the same as the library’s annual budget which is just over $30,000. Through the generosity of volunteers, the library is now open five afternoons each week. Friday and Saturday hours were added in 2008 and 2010, bringing the total open hours per week to 15.
The Library offers services for all ages:
- 19,000 books
- 2200 DVDs
- The Wahkiakum County Eagle newspaper
- 4-public computers & a printer
- Free WiFi
- Tax Forms
- Test proctoring
- Tables and chairs for reading & working
