The Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries (FVRLibraries) Board of Trustees has officially begun the recruitment process to fill two recently vacated seats—one representing the City of Vancouver and another representing Skamania County.

According to reporting by The Columbian, the vacancies stem from the departures of two trustees: Mary Williams of Clark County (Vancouver seat) and Mary Ann Duncan‑Cole of Skamania County. The recruitment effort is underway, with application details expected to be posted soon.

FVRLibraries is governed by a seven‑member volunteer board, with appointments made by local bodies: three trustees by the Clark County Council, two by the Vancouver City Council, and one each by the Klickitat and Skamania County Commissions. Appointees serve seven‑year terms, subject to confirmation by Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat counties, and may remain in their role until successors are named.

These vacancies carry particular weight in light of recent board decisions. On January 26, 2026, the board voted 4–3 to remove language referencing “equitable access” and “intellectual freedom” from its five‑year strategic plan; trustee Williams resigned in protest during the same meeting. The changes and the circumstances around her resignation drew widespread community criticism and a surge of online engagement. (OPB, Jan. 27) Residents also raised concerns about diminished public input and rushed decision‑making.

A community member reported online that both Mary Williams and Mary Ann Duncan‑Cole have departed the board. The individual urged residents—especially those living in Skamania County—to monitor the FVRLibraries website for application announcements and encouraged eligible individuals to apply once postings appear.

Why This Matters Locally

These vacancies represent a rare opportunity for local residents to shape the future governance of FVRLibraries—particularly at a moment marked by community divisions over the library’s commitment to equity and intellectual freedom. The composition of the board directly affects policy decisions, resource allocation, and the district’s strategic direction.

Prospective applicants must meet residency requirements tied to their appointing jurisdiction—either within Vancouver city limits or, for the Skamania seat, within Skamania County—and be prepared to undergo screening and confirmation processes by relevant councils or commissions. Trustees bear responsibilities including approving budgets, setting strategic priorities, and hiring the executive director, all under Washington’s RCW 27.12 framework and FVRLibraries’ own bylaws.

Community members who wish to influence the board’s future direction—especially those committed to restoring equity‑focused language and values—should consider applying or contacting their local appointing bodies to express interest.

Additional details regarding eligibility, application procedures, and timelines should be posted on the FVRLibraries website as soon as they are finalized. Residents are encouraged to check the site regularly and prepare their materials.

Sources

Reporting by The Columbian

FVRLibraries governance structure and board appointment process: FVRLibraries Mission & Governance

Details of the board’s vote and resignation: OPB, Jan. 27, 2026

Community discussion noting vacancies and urging applications: Reddit contributor, r/vancouverwa, Feb. 4, 2026