Is the Ester library a public library like the Noel Wien Library?
Yes and no. The JTEL is a public library, in that any person can become a library member or use the library premises. However, to check out items, vote at the annual meeting, or run for the board, a person must become a member of the library. The JTEL is not supported by tax dollars. It is a community library in Ester, so it focuses on service to the Ester area, but because its membership mostly lives in the west end of the Fairbanks North Star Borough, its services are supportive of residents of Goldstream Valley, Standard Creek, Cripple Creek, Old Nenana, Gold Hill Road, the Parks Highway, and Ester Dome areas as well. A majority of the board of directors must be residents of the Ester Fire Service District. The JTEL is a privately owned public institution. The Noel Wien Library, on the other hand, is available to any resident of or owner of land in the Fairbanks North Star Borough and is supported by taxes. Staff at the borough library are public employees, paid by the borough, and
