Friends of Carpenter Memorial Library | Friends of the Carpenter Memorial Library

A little bit of history-

While a library has existed in Cle Elum for over a 100 years, forty plus years ago, after a generous donation from the Carpenter family, and new library was built at 302 N Pennsylvania Ave. The new library was named after the Carpenter family in honor of their commitment to the town over the last century.

More information on the Carpenter Family and their admirable contributions-

https://www.discovercleelum.com/history/historic-preservation-commission/carpenter-house/

https://www.dailyrecordnews.com/news/old-newspaper-stand-becomes-mini-art-gallery-at-cle-elum-library/article_71249e99-4520-4f16-9d71-89f1061814dc.html

Jane Agar-

Jane Agar was hired by the Library Advisory Board to be Director of Cle Elum’s Carpenter Memorial Library beginning June 2003. She replaced former librarian Deb DeSoer who retired. Jane’s last day at the library was March 31, 2026. A farewell was held in her honor sponsored by Friends of the Library (FOL).

Upon meeting Jane, one was immediately drawn to her sharp wit, kindness, knowledge of the library, and love for books. Originally from Long Island, NY and one of six children, books were a vital part of Jane’s upbringing. Her book selections were astute and popular.

From the day she was hired, Jane developed and nurtured strong and lasting relationships with community members. Her connections and authenticity resulted in financial support and donations to Friends of the Library.

Jane was a member of the county library director’s group who try to forecast library trends and set goals. They cooperate on a three, city wide ILS system created under an interlocal agreement between cities. Through their direction, patrons were able to get a library card at any county library at no additional charge.

This group solicited funding from the BOCC for One Book, One County. Individually, Jane requested funding in lieu of charging unincorporated residents. Jane’s last year as librarian she asked for and received $50,500.00 for the city.

Jane sought opportunities to stretch the budget and use resources wisely, not impulsively. She wrote grants and most recently, acquired high speed internet in the library. This project included over $60,000 worth of electronics.

The Carpenter Memorial Library’s audio library is available due to a consortium sponsored by Washington State Libraries.

Jane worked closely with the president and officers of FOL, participating in annual book sales and projects. Under her leadership, a Zoom Room was completed and Pacific Northwest History area dedicated to former FOL President, David Franklin, who passed away in 2024.

There was a period of time where a former city planner dissolved the Library Advisory Board. This made it difficult for staff and Friends of the Library to move forward. Somehow, Jane navigated those rough waters.

Because of Jane’s commitment to the library and patrons, the library has become critical to the community even though it is not considered an essential service. It has taken decades to achieve the level of funding the library is given today.

Thank you, Jane, for your professionalism, humanity, and quiet effectiveness. You will be dearly missed.

-Written by Jackie Johnson

Library Information

Nestled in the heart of the Cascades, Cle Elum's Carpenter Memorial Library is a welcoming spot for readers and neighbors alike. Our library has a quiet room, DVDs, Toni reading devices, and more to borrow. Be sure to verify library hours, as they are subject to change!