SEQUIM – Before you moan with the realization that vacation season is waning, remember that a kind of launch pad to the wider world exists nearby.

It’s the North Olympic Library System, with four troves of culture in Port Angeles, Sequim, Forks and Clallam Bay.

Too many people haven’t heard about all that the branch libraries offer, said Paula Barnes, the North Olympic system’s new chief.

So last week she presented a wide-ranging public communications strategy to the system’s Board of Directors, which voted unanimously for it.

The board budgeted up to $8,000 for the campaign, which will include informational displays at community events, publicity for free library programs and a redesigned Web site at www.NOLS.org. 

The board also voted 3-0 for two election campaigns that could raise property taxes in Clallam County. In November 2008, a ballot measure known as the “levy lid lift” could go to voters countywide.

In March 2009, Sequim-area residents may be asked to approve a bond to pay for expansion of the Sequim branch.