Dear Library Friends,
As I prepare to retire on June 7, I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve you over the past 34 years—eight of them as Director of the Pima County Public Library. It has been the honor of a lifetime to be part of an institution that is so deeply rooted in community, equity, learning, and connection.
Libraries are more than buildings filled with books—they are hubs of possibility. I’ve seen firsthand how lives are transformed through early literacy programs, job search help, language learning, creative spaces, and simply by being welcomed with respect and dignity. That’s the magic of your public library, and it’s a magic made possible by you—our patrons, our partners, our advocates.
I want to assure you that the future of the Library remains strong and stable. Thanks to the dedicated support of voters and the Pima County Board of Supervisors, the Library District property tax provides reliable and sufficient funding for our operations. This includes funding for programs like PEEPs (Parents as Early Education Partners), which continues to thrive and expand thanks to your support. Our commitment to early childhood literacy, family engagement, and lifelong learning is unwavering.
However, I would be remiss not to acknowledge a significant and troubling development: the tenuous situation regarding federal funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). For decades, IMLS grants have helped us pilot innovative services, reach underserved populations, and leverage local investment for maximum impact. The elimination of IMLS funding nationwide is a deep loss—not only for Pima County, but for libraries and museums across the country. It means fewer resources for digital inclusion, fewer grants for community outreach, and fewer dollars to support rural and tribal libraries.
Despite this, I remain hopeful. The spirit of innovation, collaboration, and community ownership that defines our library system will continue to shine. The team of dedicated staff and leaders in place today is among the most talented and passionate I have ever known. They—and you—are the reason I leave with confidence and pride.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of this journey. Thank you for believing in libraries. And thank you for continuing to invest in the future of our community.
With gratitude and warm wishes,
Amber Mathewson
Director, Pima County Public Library
