Library running on community support

Long-term goal: To join Berks County Public Library System

The Oley Community Library remains fully functioning through the support of residents, business owners, and volunteers. The long-term goal, according to Library Director Noel Christman, is to become a part of the Berks County Public Library System.

Since its establishment in 2009, Christman says the library has sought to be a part of the system to offer patrons benefits such as access to additional materials and courier service.

Denise Sticha, System Administrator for Berks County Public Libraries, says the main issue is funding.

To be a member of the public library system, there are requirements such as the ability to receive state aid. The primary standard is to bring to the table $5 per capita in the municipality.

“For a new library — you need the $5 (per capita) support. A new entity needs to support itself,” said Sticha. “Oley is struggling to meet that.”

A library tax was put to referendum in Oley back in 2014.

The effort did not pass and it was a bit of a contentious issue according to reports from The Boyertown Area Times.

“There’s nothing to stop a community from having a library,” said Sticha, adding “The main distinction is state revenue.” She admitted it’s not easy and noted a need for core volunteers, persistence, and cooperation with the government.

Local library taxes are allocated to libraries within the public system.

Nineteen libraries are currently a part of Berks County’s public system. In addition to Oley — Shartlesville and Wyomissing have libraries that are not part of the county system.

Christman has been involved with Oley’s effort since she took on the role as director two years ago. “We’re not giving up,” she says, adding that she’s not sure how long it will take. “We have a lot to offer; it’s hard to get the funds.”

Donations to the library vary from $25 to $500; the library operates on an annual budget of about $35,000, according to the director.

“We have been holding our own,” said Christman. “We’re doing well with donations.” She has encouraged residents to reach out to the local supervisors for support and said that they’re able to maintain as-is, but the extra funding would be greatly beneficial.

The library holds two big books sales each year in the summertime — at the Peach Festival on Aug. 13 and at the Apple Festival on Oct. 8-9.

Story time, movie nights, and book clubs are among some of the ongoing activities. There isn’t a fee for these activities, but there is usually a request for a specific donation such as paper towels. Check out the website at <oleylibrary.wordpress.com> or Facebook for more details and updates.

The library, located at 339 Main Street in Oley, is open Tuesday - Wednesday 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursday - Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.