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Clearwater library advisory board hears that 10% city budget cut will shrink hours; members discuss outreach and advocacy
Summary
Library Director Jennifer told the Clearwater Library Advisory Board that a 10% reduction to the library’s budget — about $820,000 — will reduce hours at two branches; board members discussed outreach, possible committees and partner advocacy to restore visibility and support.
The Clearwater Library Advisory Board was told Feb. 6 that a 10% reduction to the library system’s budget, which Library Director Jennifer said equates to about $820,000, will lead to fewer open hours at two branches and is being implemented partly by leaving vacant positions unfilled.
Jennifer said the cuts required changes to branch schedules: Countryside Library will no longer offer Sunday hours and the main library will no longer offer Saturday hours. She said the system will add some Friday morning hours, with Countryside moving from 12–5 p.m. to 10–5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Board members pressed for context and proposals to respond. One member asked whether the city had selected a 5% or 10% reduction from budget options; Jennifer replied, “10% was taken from my overall budget. So that resulted in $820,000.” Another member said the reductions are “really upsetting” and urged the board to boost public understanding of library services.
The board discussed outreach and advocacy options. Members suggested forming a subcommittee or working with existing partner groups — including the Friends of the Library and the Clearwater Library Foundation — to explain services and impacts. Jennifer noted legal limitations on board communications under open-meetings rules but agreed liaison contacts with the city manager and city council are available.
Board members highlighted that many residents rely on library computers and staff help for accessing benefits and services. One board member encouraged fellow members to “talk the library up” at civic organizations and other public forums. Jennifer asked the board whether it would like additional budget details at the next meeting; she said she will provide updates in August.
No formal motion to form a committee or take other formal action was recorded during the meeting; the discussion closed with several board members volunteering to help with outreach planning and with Jennifer offering to provide more information at the board’s August meeting.
