Fletcher Free Library Director Mary Danko briefed the Board of Finance May 14 on the library’s FY26 budget and how recent staffing reductions will affect operations.

Danko said the library lost two part‑time positions in the recent reductions in force: a part‑time financial assistant (functions shifting to the Clerk/Treasurer/modern‑gov work) and a part‑time computer assistant (about 20 hours/week). She said remaining staff will absorb routine computer‑help tasks where possible and that patrons may be asked to schedule follow‑up help when a technology specialist is not available.

Danko described a recent security strategy shift: last year the mayor’s office funded a move away from contracted security toward in‑house security staff, and the library retained a Howard Center outreach worker embedded Tuesday through Saturday. She said the in‑house approach has improved staff integration and access to library systems, and the Howard Center position has helped with outreach to people experiencing homelessness. Danko noted that the library’s Friends (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) funds most programming and professional development; the library reported about 90 volunteers who contributed nearly 6,900 hours last fiscal year.

Danko said the library benefits from the “collection fund” supported by a local tax that covers circulating materials and digital services. She noted an NEH (National Endowment for the Humanities) matching grant for the building preservation project is in an uncertain federal environment; the building project includes masonry and terracotta restoration and window work.

Why it matters: the library is both a community hub and a service provider for vulnerable residents. Changes in staffing and continued reliance on nonprofit partners and embedded outreach staff affect how the library will deliver services to patrons, including programs, technology help and safety-related operations.

What’s next: Danko said departments are using service‑inventory processes to document tasks that will be shifted or end and will work with the CAO’s office and HR on transitions; she and Friends leaders will continue fundraising for capital and program needs.