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I'm not so much seeking a justification for or indictment of past decisions as I am urging that the next steps take account of all the facts.  I also believe that this information, effectively used, could lead to greater public support for both the library and the museum, as well as to innovations that could help reach a broader public.  

posted 4 years, 2 months ago
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This is an issue not only of the Oregon Historical Society’s financial health, but also of the public good, for the Society exists not just for its own benefit, but to serve a public purpose.  A wide range of projects with social and economic impact hinge on access to library collections.  For example, a diverse public uses the library for researching property history, for projects that include historic register nominations, environmental assessment and superfund cleanup, and restoration of structures such as Portland’s bridges.  If you want to talk about numbers, tally up the wider economic impact of the projects done by library users.

Please give us the numbers, including an honest accounting of the cost of exhibits compared to the cost of running the library, and the wider impact of both museum exhibits and the use of library collections.  I'm not advocating for an either/or approach to the library or museum, but for a full accounting of the value of the Society's assets and its contribution to the greater good .

Shawna Gandy, former OHS library staff member

posted 4 years, 2 months ago
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