Millersville library seeks 20% pay raise to improve worker retention

In the heart of Sumner County, Tennessee, the Budget Committee convened on May 2, 2025, to discuss pressing financial matters that could shape the future of local libraries and educational programs. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as committee members listened to library directors and county officials advocate for increased funding to address critical staffing and retention issues.

One of the most compelling discussions centered around the Millersville Library, where the director proposed a significant restructuring of staff. She argued for the conversion of two part-time positions into full-time roles, emphasizing that the current pay rates were insufficient to retain skilled employees. "You can go to Dollar General and make more money than you do at the library," she lamented, highlighting the challenges faced in keeping library workers. The retention rate for library staff in the area has been alarmingly low, prompting calls for a pay increase of 20% across the board to make positions more competitive.

The committee members engaged in a detailed dialogue about the implications of these requests. They noted that while the proposed changes would not increase the total number of employees, they would shift the focus from part-time to full-time positions, which could enhance service delivery and employee satisfaction. The director's plea resonated with many, as they recognized the broader impact of well-supported libraries on community engagement and education.

In addition to library funding, the meeting also addressed the budget for the University of Tennessee's Extension Service in Sumner County. The county director presented a modest request for an $11,000 increase, which would allow for the promotion of a part-time program assistant to a full-time agent position. This change would not only provide stability for the employee but also enhance the county's renowned 4-H program, which is the largest of its kind in the nation.

As discussions progressed, committee members expressed concerns about the sustainability of funding, particularly in light of the new operating system implemented by the University of Tennessee, which could affect future budget allocations. The director reassured them that this change was a long-awaited improvement and would not likely be reversed.

The meeting concluded with a sense of cautious optimism. While the requests for increased funding were substantial, the committee recognized the critical need for investment in both libraries and educational programs to foster community growth and development. As the budget deliberations continue, the voices of library directors and educational leaders will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Sumner County's public services.