RESIDENT AND NON-RESIDENT POLICY

Adopted by Spokane Public Library Board of Trustees on September 18, 2018; revised May 13, 2025, revised November 18, 2025.

In alignment with Spokane Public Library’s (SPL) mission to inspire learning, advance knowledge, and connect communities, this policy outlines eligibility for library services and the fee structure for residents and non-residents. The intent is to ensure equitable, inclusive, and sustainable access for all users, while maintaining transparency and accountability.

ELIGIBILITY FOR LIBRARY SERVICES

Residents (No Fee)
In accordance with RCW 27.12.270, RCW 27.12.305, and other applicable statutes, SPL provides free library access to individuals who meet any of the following criteria:

• Reside within the corporate/municipal boundaries of the City of Spokane
• Work within the City of Spokane
• Attend school within the City of Spokane
• Are enrolled members of the Spokane Tribe of Indians
• Are employees of the Spokane Public Library

For the purposes of this policy, these groups are collectively referred to as “Residents.”

Non-Residents (Fee-Based Access)
“Non-Residents” are individuals who do not meet the criteria in Residents section. Non-Residents may access SPL services through a non-resident library card, available for an annual fee.

ACCESS, FEES, AND EQUITY

The annual non-resident fee is set by the Board of Trustees, with consideration of:

• Per capita service costs
• Average household cost of library services for Spokane residents
• Operational and staffing costs funded by the City of Spokane

A clear rationale for the fee structure will be published annually, ensuring transparency and public understanding. The Board will review the fee annually to ensure fairness, sustainability, and alignment with the library’s strategic goals.

ADDITIONAL ACCESS PROVISIONS

 Volunteers and City Employees

• Regular volunteers who live outside Spokane city limits and aren’t eligible for reciprocal cards will receive free non‑resident library privileges for the duration of their service.
• City of Spokane employees living outside city limits will receive free library access to support professional development and learning.

Digital Services and Innovation

• Non-resident users may have access to selected digital services (e.g., e-books, databases, streaming content) based on licensing agreements and eligibility tiers.
• Specific digital service eligibility will be clearly communicated on SPL’s website and at service points.

Partner and Reciprocal Access

• SPL maintains reciprocal borrowing agreements with select neighboring library systems. Individuals who reside in areas covered by these agreements may receive a Spokane Public Library card at no charge, under the terms defined in the reciprocal arrangement.
• SPL also partners with key community institutions—such as Spokane Public Schools, Spokane Community Colleges, and the City of Spokane—to provide library access to employees, students, and other eligible individuals. Access under these partnerships is coordinated through the sponsoring organization and may be subject to verification.

Customer Experience and Access

• SPL is committed to making library services accessible and user-friendly:
• Non-residents may apply for a library card online or in-person. Required documentation and eligibility criteria will be clearly listed on SPL’s website.

Contractual Agreements for Service

In accordance with RCW 27.12.180, RCW 27.12.240, and RCW 27.12.280, SPL may enter into contracts with other government units or library boards to provide service to non-residents as a group. In such cases, affected individuals will not be assessed individual non-resident fees.

Ongoing Review and Commitment

SPL will periodically evaluate this policy to:

• Ensure alignment with SPL’s strategic goals of lifelong learning, innovation, and access
• Adapt to evolving community needs and funding realities
• Ensure all policies uphold equity, inclusion, and transparency