BOISE, Idaho –The newest member of the Idaho Commission for Libraries’ (ICfL) board of library commissioners, Norma Staaf, begins her service this month.
Following her retirement from the U.S. Forest Service in 2018, Staaf worked as a substitute at Kamiah schools and Kamiah and Kooskia community libraries. In July, Staaf began a part-time position as the branch assistant at the Kamiah Community Library, which is part of the Prairie River Library District.
“I am honored to be selected for this important role supporting libraries throughout Idaho,” Staaf said. “In my experience, libraries help fill a critical need in our communities. Whether it is providing computers, Wi-Fi, and e-books, or summer reading programs and kindergarten readiness kits, libraries serve people of all ages.”
Staaf connects with teens through her support of the Upriver Youth Leadership Council and was elected to its board in August. Staaf also has prior board experience through her service to the Salmon Arts Council and the Lemhi Regional Land Trust.
Staaf was chosen to fill the available seat on the five-member board of library commissioners, which is the policymaking body for the ICfL, after John Held resigned the board after 15 years of service. Held does continue working for the Idaho library community as a volunteer with the ICfL.
Staaf was recommended by the board of library commissioners and appointed to the position by Governor Little. Staaf is from Harpster, Idaho, and represents the 1st Congressional District. It is a five-year board term.
“We are fortunate to have someone with Norma’s background and passion for libraries join the board of library commissioners. Her experience in both school and public libraries will be an asset o the board as it continues its work fostering and promoting library service in Idaho,” said State Librarian Stephanie Bailey-White.
The powers and duties of the board of library commissioners are listed in Idaho Code, Title 33, Chapter 25, Section 3, found here:
https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title33/T33CH25/SECT33-2503/.

The news release annoucing her appointment can be found here.