Things continue to improve for the Kelso Public Library. During Tuesday’s Kelso City Council meeting, Library Director Erik Moser presented the 2024 report, highlighting positive trends across the board.

The library has seen a strong recovery since COVID-19, with notable increases in several key areas. Library visits were up by more than 4,500, totaling 29,257 visitors. The number of library card holders grew by 788, bringing the total to 6,096. Circulations also saw a boost, increasing by over 7,600, reaching 51,618, with digital circulations experiencing a significant rise.

In terms of programming, the library hosted a variety of events, including visits from multiple authors, the Beekeepers Association, Master Gardeners, the Veterans Information Fair, a Star Wars Day, a Winter Party, and more. Program attendance nearly doubled compared to 2023, reaching 7,898 attendees. The Summer Reading Program saw even more impressive growth, with attendance more than doubling to 3,067 participants.

Currently, the library employs 4 full-time and 2 part-time staff members, and last year, it benefited from the help of 76 volunteers.