Library Director

Eric Hinderliter has served as the library’s director since December 2013.

Library Hours

8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday
8:00 am to 5:00 pm Wednesday and Friday
8:00 am to 1:00 pm Saturday
Closed Sundays
Also closed on the following holidays:
Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Governance and Funding

The library is governed by a seven-member board, with members appointed by the Jay County Council, Jay County Commission, or Jay School Corporation. Members are appointed for four-year terms, serve without pay, and meet at least monthly. While the library is primarily funded by county property tax, money is also received from the county option income tax, financial institution tax, excise tax, fines, fees and copy machine receipts.

Board meetings and members

Brief History of the Jay County Public Library

In 1902 a grant of $15,000 from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation was used to construct the Portland City Library on East Walnut Street.  The building was expanded in 1973.  In 1976 the library taxing district was enlarged to include several townships in the county and the name was changed to Jay County Public Library.

The present 24,000 square foot facility, constructed in 1996, was funded by a general obligation bond issue; donations from local organizations and individuals; and state and federal grants.  The library serves a population of 17,124.  With around 150,000 items available for use, annual circulation is around 300,000 items.

More detailed history of the library.

Accessibility

Built in 1996, the library building was designed to meet the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act. A wheelchair is available for patron use in the building. Wheelchair-height online catalog computers are available, one near the circulation desk and one in the adult area.  Accessible restrooms are available in the entry foyer and a companion-assisted restroom is in the north end of the building.

Large print books and recorded books are displayed in the adult area.  The children’s collection includes many recorded materials as well.

Book Drop

Two outside drops are available for returns; one is for books, the other for audio visual materials.

Endowment

In 1993 the library established an endowment in the Portland Foundation. Donations are invited in memory of people or in honor of events and should be made directly to the Foundation. The interest income is an annual source of support for programming and capital expenditures.

Learn more about making gifts to the library of material in honor or in memory of someone special.