Where we are
To kick off the merger exploration process, the committee pinpointed the key questions we need to address to move ahead. We’re exploring potential governance models, budget and staffing changes, and, most importantly, how this can truly benefit our members and improve their experience.
To answer these questions, system directors and key staff are compiling data and building potential scenarios. The full exploration committee, system staff, and a member focus group will then review these scenarios and offer feedback to refine them. We’ll also share a survey so all member library staff, board members, and system teams can weigh in.
A Great Question – Merger vs. Collaboration
One thoughtful question we’ve received is: Why pursue a merger when our systems already collaborate so well? While our systems have a strong foundation of working together, the exploration committee is examining the unique advantages a formal merger might offer that informal collaboration simply cannot. A few top-of-mind benefits include:
- Structural and Service Sustainability: Unlike collaborative agreements, which can be vulnerable to change or dissolution, a merger creates a permanent, single legal entity. This structural unity can ensure that services are integrated into the system’s core rather than being subject to the complexities of multi-party negotiations.
- Operational De-duplication and Fiscal Efficiency: A merger would eliminate redundant administrative overhead, such as managing two separate boards, conducting two audits, and filing two sets of state reports. By consolidating governance and eliminating inter-system invoicing and complex cost-sharing calculations, the system can redirect time and funds to valuable services and resources.
- Specialized Expertise and Staffing Depth: Collaboration allows us to coordinate, but a merger could allow us to build a “deeper bench.” Combining teams would enable staff to specialize in high-need areas like facilities support, inclusive services, and youth services, a shift that is harder to achieve when systems must hire independently for generalist roles.
- Simplified Member Experience: A merger removes the administrative boundaries that can confuse library staff, such as the need for many libraries to distinguish between “OWLSnet services” and “system services.” This would also create a streamlined onboarding process for new directors and provide a single, unified website and point of contact for all inquiries.
While these potential benefits are promising, the committee will continue to explore them thoroughly alongside our system communities to ultimately answer a core question: Do the long-term benefits outweigh the potential risks?
If you are interested in understanding why we are exploring merger at this particular time, take a look at our FAQ which covers this topic.
We will continue highlighting key questions in the coming months. If there is a specific topic you would like us to cover, please let us know using the contact channels below.
Stay Informed and Engaged
- Visit the Webpage: Check our dedicated process page for meeting agendas, materials, and regular updates.
- Reach Out via Email: Send your thoughts and questions to the committee at mergerexploration@owlsweb.org.
Attend a Committee Meeting: All meetings are virtual and open to the public. Meetings will be publicly posted on the website and through email.