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Lancaster Public Library asks council to back $1M local-share application, highlights growing use since relocation
Summary
Library leaders briefed council on increasing program attendance, internet and device access, the new mobile library and requested city authorization for a Commonwealth Local Share Account application up to $1,000,000 to buy and renovate the Book Resort property.
The Lancaster Public Library presented its 2026 budget priorities and requested council’s authorization to apply for up to $1,000,000 in Commonwealth Local Share Account (LSA) funding to purchase and renovate the Book Resort property at 225 North Marshall Street.
John Heinway, director of donor advising for the library, told council the library’s mission is “to inspire, empower, and strengthen our community by connecting people with information, ideas, and enriching experiences.” He said nearly 46% of city residents hold library cards, the library provided 80,000 public-computer or Wi‑Fi connections in 2024, and more than 4,000 people participated in the 2025 summer reading program.
Heinway described the Book Resort as a volunteer-run facility critical to library fundraising: it supports the library’s annual big book sale and generates more than $200,000 annually for library operations. The LSA request would support purchase and prioritized renovations — HVAC, electrical and roofing — to preserve that revenue stream and protect the adjoining parking lease arrangement the library has with the property owner. Heinway said the purchase price cited in the application is $750,000 (not including closing costs) plus renovation funds.
Councilors asked about metrics for success. Library staff said state reporting requirements and local program attendance, public-computer use, circulation, donor support and partner feedback are the primary measures. The library noted its program attendance grew 18% in 2024 and that the new downtown location and proximity to Yule Plaza have increased visibility and partnerships.
Library leaders also reviewed other priorities: continuing ARPA-supported operations (through 2026), sustaining the new mobile “on-the-go” library that made 42 partner visits and recorded more than 5,000 interactions this summer, adding more ASL and Spanish programming, extending evening hours and hiring a social worker if funding allows.
Council voted to authorize the LSA application for up to $1,000,000; the roll call recorded councilors voting “Aye.” Speakers during the meeting urged full funding for libraries; one public commenter said municipal support should reach the state-recommended $5 per capita level.
The library urged continued municipal support and said it will pursue sustainability to replace one-time ARPA support after 2026.
