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Kingston library warns loss of federal IMLS funding would wipe out one-third of circulation; building repairs and fundraising underway
Summary
Kingston Public Library Director Melissa Mannen told the Select Board on March 31 that a proposed federal cut to IMLS funding would jeopardize the shared ebook platform and state van delivery that together account for roughly one-third of the library's circulation.
Melissa Mannen, Kingston Public Library director, told the Select Board on March 31 that potential federal action to cut Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funding would sharply curtail ebook and interlibrary-loan services that the town relies on.
"This amounts to one-third of our total circulation in Kingston of materials," Mannen said, citing last year's numbers: 9,108 ebook and e-audio checkouts and 1,691 interlibrary-loan borrows. She said the New Hampshire State Library receives IMLS funding and that those statewide funds support the shared ebook platform (OverDrive/Libby) and the statewide delivery van used for interlibrary loans.
Why this matters: If IMLS funding were cut, the shared ebook platform could become unaffordable for the network that includes Kingston, and the state-run delivery system would no longer operate as currently structured. Mannen said library directors are working on contingency plans, including local sharing agreements with neighboring libraries and other strategies to maintain service to Kingston patrons.
Facilities and fundraising Mannen also reported a structural incident in the library building over the winter when a shelf or wall collapsed into a room; no one was injured. She said the building will require more extensive repairs and that PrimeX (the town's vendor/approval authority for some contracts) will need to review contractor bids. Mannen said she has hired a fundraiser to support an outdoor-planning project; she expects final landscape architect plans next month and plans to bring the design to the Planning Board to make the project public.
Other library activity Mannen described continuing programming and said the library has increased outreach to find grant and private-donation support. She noted the state and federal funding threats are evolving and advised the board that the library would post updates and seek opportunities for local support.
Ending note: Mannen asked the board to be aware of how state or federal budget changes could affect local library services and encouraged the town to consider contingency options if IMLS funding is reduced.
