Valley of the Tetons Library (VTL) has been dedicated to serving our community since 1966. One year earlier, in 1965, the Teton Valley Chamber of Commerce formed a women’s auxiliary, who called themselves the “Chambermaids”. These women quickly determined that a library was the most vital need for the community and set about creating one. Despite doubt and discouragement, the women traveled to the state capital, Boise, to receive advice on how to proceed. Once the necessary documents and signatures were obtained, the Chambermaids presented their idea to the public and an overwhelming 76% of voters agreed with them. A library district was created and the Chambermaids had succeeded in record time, opening a library that, in their words, would provide a window to the world.
Today, VTL has grown beyond the Chambermaids wildest dreams and we have a far greater variety of resources and services than were available when the doors opened. We love our books of course, but also circulate essential items such as laptops, power tools, and even sunlamps for dark winters. We have a seed library, film screenings, cooking demonstrations, free wifi and a makerspace. While the specific collections and materials change, what has not – and will not – change is our dedication to the mission of inspiring lifelong learning, encouraging exploration and creativity, and enriching lives.
The library operates three branches, in Victor, Driggs and Tetonia, with an annex programming space next door to the Driggs branch. VTL offers year round programming, services and resources to the residents of Teton Valley, plus the many visitors who pass through each year. We believe that there is no other local organization with the potential to reach the whole community in the way that VTL can. In short, the library is for everyone and everyone has a place at the library.
VTL Mission
Inspire lifelong learning, encourage exploration and creativity and enrich our community.
VTL Vision
A space for individual discovery and expression where the community comes together through conversation, interaction, and collaboration.
VTL Core Values
Tradition & Innovation
Upholding unbiased access to past stories, wisdom and knowledge to help inform and create our future, while striving to be ahead of the technological curve and to provide space for the creation of new knowledge.
Integrity
Holding true to our professional standards of providing equal and confidential access to a diverse community while providing a safe space for exploration.
Relationships
Building bridges with sincere interactions throughout our community and serving as a hub for what is happening in our valley and our world beyond.
Freedom
Serving the community with sincerity and openness; maintaining a safe space to explore and discover, with equal access to all.