About Us

The Umatilla Public Library was founded around 1917 when "a group of women grew tired of watching the town [Umatilla] fall into disrepair and the loose enforcement of the laws. They decided they could do a better job of running the town. Their campaign prevailed with a clean sweep for the six female candidates. The new administration got to work improving the water and electrical services, approved funds for street and sidewalk projects, and organized city “Clean up weeks.” Additional accomplishments included new railroad crossing signs, founding of a town library, monthly garbage collection and appointment of a city health official during the 1918 pandemic" - From article titled. "The Rise of Petticoat Governments" by the Oregon Secretary of State

The Umatilla Public Library, part of the Umatilla County Special Library District, provides free services to all residents living within the Umatilla City/County boundaries with services available to all others for a fee.

The mission of the Umatilla Public Library is to provide quality materials, resources, and services that fulfill the educational, informational, cultural, and recreational needs of the community in an atmosphere that is safe, welcoming, and enjoyable.