Norwalk library advocates for $60000 budget increase to address high e-book costs

During the recent City of Norwalk Library Board of Directors meeting, a pressing issue emerged regarding the rising costs of digital library materials. Library representatives highlighted a significant disparity in pricing between physical books and digital downloads, with some titles costing as much as three times more in digital format. This trend is not unique to Norwalk; libraries across the country are grappling with similar challenges, which are straining their budgets.

The board discussed the urgent need for an increase in the library's book budget, proposing an ideal increase of $60,000. This funding is essential to meet the growing demand for digital content, as more patrons shift towards downloading books, magazines, and movies, a trend that has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic. The current budget constraints have led to long wait times for popular digital titles, limiting access for library users.

The discussion underscored the broader implications for community access to literature and educational resources. As digital content becomes increasingly popular, the library's ability to provide a diverse range of materials is at risk without additional funding. The board plans to further explore this issue and advocate for the necessary budget adjustments to ensure that all residents have equitable access to library resources.