The Walla Walla County Rural Library District was established in 1972 with a permanent tax base and operates as an independent municipal corporation under Washington State law. The Walla Walla County Commission appoints members to the Library District Board of Trustees, each with a 5-year term.  As a body, the Board holds all subsequent legal authority. With an annual budget of approximately $2 million, the District serves the 26,000 rural residents of unincorporated Walla Walla County, the cities of College Place and Prescott, and the census-designated places of Burbank and Touchet.

The District is funded by a tax of up to 50 cents per $1,000 in assessed property value. The District's tax rate for 2023 is 39 cents per $1,000 of property value.

The communities served by the Library District are diverse small towns that see their libraries as community centers and gathering places—integral to community life.

Walla Walla County is in southeastern Washington State along the Oregon state line. The rolling hills and the mountain backdrop are the perfect rural setting. This area is known for its agriculture--apples, wheat, sweet onions, and vineyards.

MISSION STATEMENT

Walla Walla County Rural Library District educates and inspires by providing enriching materials and services that are accessible to all, in our buildings, online, and out in the community.

VISION STATEMENT

Walla Walla County Rural Library District libraries are inviting centers for education, arts, and culture. Representative, knowledgeable staff provide our communities with free access to high quality collections, inspiring programs, and responsive services. We serve as the county’s hub for civil discourse and lifelong learning.

VALUES

Diversity: Providing equitable services and employment opportunities that reflect the diversity of our county.

Quality Service: Acting with initiative, creativity, and flexibility and utilizing state of the art technology to provide excellent customer service to all.

Intellectual Freedom: Dedication to providing free and open access to information and supporting library users' right to privacy.

Partnerships: Collaboration with local agencies and organizations.

Public Trust: Open, effective, and efficient stewardship of library resources.

Community Investment: Providing facilities at the heart of each community as a gathering place for all ages and the fundamental source for lifelong learning.