Houston Public Library addresses safety challenges amid funding cuts and service expansions

The Houston Public Library held a budget workshop on May 20, 2025, to discuss the fiscal year 2026 budget and address various operational challenges and initiatives. The meeting highlighted the library's extensive programs, staffing, and the pressing need for enhanced security measures.

The workshop began with an overview of library operations, which manage library cards and partnerships with local school districts. The library employs over 300 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff and benefits from the support of more than 200 volunteers, who contribute nearly 7,000 hours annually to help fill service gaps.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the doubling of library incidents, which increased from 1,000 to 2,000 over the past year. This alarming trend emphasizes the need for a secure environment for both staff and patrons. However, the General Services Department (GSD) announced a substantial reduction in library security funding for the upcoming budget, forcing the library to allocate part of its operating budget to address these security gaps. This decision places additional strain on resources already stretched thin for core services and programs.

The library's literacy and education programs were also discussed, focusing on public outreach, partnerships, and grant management. The Houston Public Library Foundation plays a crucial role in supplementing city funds to support these initiatives.

Despite not being a revenue-generating department, the library contributes to the city's general fund through passport services, particularly following the addition of the Walker Neighborhood Library as a passport location. While late book fines were eliminated in January 2023, the library continues to collect fees for lost or damaged items.

In light of these challenges, the library remains committed to its mission of promoting reading and learning. A new marketing campaign, featuring the slogan "I Bet You Didn't Know," aims to highlight the library's services and encourage community engagement. Additionally, registration for the Summer Reading Program is now open, reinforcing the library's dedication to fostering literacy and discovery among Houston residents.

The meeting concluded with a focus on addressing the outlined challenges while continuing to provide essential services to the community.