Glaude Highlights Library Services, Growth at Chamber Meeting
Published 1:30 am Thursday, December 4, 2025
At the Nov. 5 Forks Chamber of Commerce meeting, North Olympic Library System (NOLS) Executive Director Noah Glaude shared updates on the system’s continued growth and its critical role in serving communities across Clallam County.
Glaude, who has worked with NOLS since 2011 and became executive director in 2020, oversees a system that includes four library branches – Forks, Clallam Bay, Port Angeles and Sequim—along with a bookmobile and home delivery services for patrons who cannot easily access a physical location.
The system’s five-member Board of Trustees, appointed by the Clallam County Commissioners, meets monthly. The West End is represented by Jennifer Pelikan.
Funded by Timber Revenue and Local Support
NOLS is funded in part through its junior taxing district and receives timber revenue from state trust lands. Glaude noted that the remodel of the Forks Library was made possible with help from that revenue source.
By the Numbers: A Busy Library System
NOLS currently serves about 30,000 cardholders, offering access to more than 200,000 items, including books, DVDs, digital materials, and more. Last year:
• 1 million items were checked out across the system
• Libraries recorded roughly 300,000 in-person visitors
• More than 21,000 people attended library programs
In addition, NOLS continues to provide free Wi-Fi and still offers fax service, which Glaude said remains in steady demand.
Programs From Early Learning to Adult Engagement
Library programs support all ages, including:
• Literacy and early learning, with storytimes and tools to encourage reading before kindergarten
• Education kits and strong homeschool usage
• Teen and adult programs, including social and hobby groups
• Volunteer opportunities for community members
The system also lends unique items through NOLS Gear, which includes musical instruments, telescopes, and Imagination Library enrollment. Children ages 0–4 can receive a book by mail each month, delivered anywhere in Clallam County.
A Community Anchor
Glaude emphasized that NOLS aims to “reach people where they are.” During the recent Clallam Bay road washout, the library proved essential as a community information and support hub. The Forks branch is also a frequent stop for tourists, offering restroom access and local information.
A new digital law library service is rolling out soon, which will provide free access to legal resources via a dedicated public computer terminal.
NOLS also continues to experiment with pop-up libraries and is exploring partnerships with the Forks school district with a goal of automatically issuing library cards to students.
For more information about local services, programs, or volunteer opportunities, residents may visit any NOLS branch or the library system’s website.
