The Library lost a great leader and advocate last week when Board member Beth Pearl-Gent passed away on Saturday, August 6.

Beth demonstrated her passion for library services through her involvement in the Friends of the Sisters Library, her services as an elected member of the Deschutes Public Library District Board, and as an active member of the State Library Board. Her insightful leadership resulted in meaningful services for the libraries in Deschutes County and Oregon.

In 1998, Beth was instrumental in the creation of the Deschutes Public Library District. During this time she worked diligently to ensure that library services were funded and anchored throughout the district. Beth placed strong emphasis on creating a strong governing board and was crucial to the adoption of current board governance policies. During her four-year role as library board president, she worked tirelessly for excellence in library services and for financial stability.

During Beth’s tenure the library completed new facilities in La Pine, Sisters and East Bend as well as major remodels in Sunriver, Redmond and Downtown Bend. Beth was most proud of her contributions to the new Sisters Library, which serves her home community.

Beth was instrumental in helping the library achieve state and federal funding to introduce the Library Linx project. This innovative project brought public library services to participating schools throughout Deschutes County. This successful endeavor continues to enrich the lives of youth, which was near and dear to Beth’s heart.

Most of all Beth will be missed for her kindness, intelligence, humor and unwavering support of libraries.