Explore Pierce County Library System Policies.

Process for Filing Claim for Damages

In accordance with the Chapter 4.96 RCW, the Board of Trustees of the Pierce County Library System (“Library”) has appointed an authorized agent to receive claims for damages against the Library. The name and address of the agent has been duly filed and recorded with the Pierce County Auditor’s Office. All claims for damages against any local government entity shall be presented to and filed with the government entity and the government entity’s designated agent within the applicable period of time limitations (see RCW 4.96.020). The designated agent to receive claims for damages during normal business hours is:

Gretchen Caserotti, Executive Director
Pierce County Library System
3005 112th St. E.
Tacoma, WA 98446

Phone: 253-548-3300

Business hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on weekends and official Library holidays.

Claim for Damages form (Tort Form)

Download the Claim for Damages form or contact the Assistant to the Director at 253-548-3420 to obtain the form by mail.

Claim Submission

All claims shall describe the conduct and circumstances, location, which brought about the injury or damage, describe the injury or damage, date, time, location, witnesses if known. Provide adequate independent supportive documentation in support of your claim, for example: repair costs estimates, medical bills, loss wages earning statement, etc.

  1. Complete the Claim for Damages form.
  2. Attach relevant supporting documents or additional evidence.
  3. The Claim for Damages form must be signed.
  4. Make copies of your Claim for Damages form and attachments for your records before submitting. Submittal material will not be returned.
  5. Mail or deliver the original, signed form and supporting documents to the agent and address listed above.
  6. The designated Claims Agent will acknowledge, in writing, receipt of the Claim within seven (7) calendar days. This acknowledgement does not indicate the Library’s agreement that your claim should be allowed or is legally sufficient.
  7. After filing the claim, please direct any further correspondence or inquiries you have about the claim to Clifford Jo, Business and Compliance Director at 253-548-3453.

Legal Requirements for Presenting a Claim for Damages Form

To verify the claim and additional supporting information, the law requires that the Claim for Damages form be signed by one of the following:

  1. The Claimant; or
  2. A person holding a written power of attorney from the Claimant; or
  3. An attorney admitted to practice in Washington state on the Claimant’s behalf; or
  4. A court-approved guardian or guardian ad litem on behalf of the Claimant.

Additional information

State law requires an original signature on the Claim form, which means the form cannot be accepted electronically, including fax and email.

All documents are subject to Washington State Public Disclosure Statutes (Chapter 42.56 RCW).