Library seeks funds for added security hours, incident‑tracking software and public computer upgrades

Library staff told trustees that the department will propose budget changes for fiscal 2025–26 to address recurring operational needs and safety deterrence. Staff said the department intends to ask the city manager to include funding for an additional 18 security guard hours per week so that a security presence would be onsite more consistently rather than only some hours of operation.

The presentation included preliminary incident data showing a measurable share of incidents occurring earlier in the day; staff said incidents occur at different times, including a notable portion between 10 a.m. and noon. Staff argued the additional hours would increase deterrence during periods when families and young children use the building.

Trustees were told the library will roll out incident‑tracking software (previously approved with designated funds) to help staff document events and create data that can justify future resource requests. Staff said the software will improve reporting and help determine whether requested security resources are meeting needs.

On technology upgrades, staff described a potential grant or settlement funding source: the library previously received funds from a cathode‑ray‑tube class‑action settlement that paid for public computers, and there is some remaining money that could be used toward a planned upgrade of the public computer reservation and print/scan system. Staff said the upgrade could include new reservation/printing software and a higher‑quality public scanner; if a grant is awarded it would reduce the need to use general fund dollars.

Staff also said a contract to provide improved card access, panic‑button functionality and higher‑quality security cameras is likely to be considered by the City Council in June. No formal budget was adopted at the meeting; staff said the council is expected to determine final budget timing and adoption.