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Willows council approves part‑time children’s librarian after debate over full‑time role and budget limits
Summary
The Willows City Council voted 5-0 on April 8 to hire a part‑time children’s librarian for the Willows Library amid public appeals for more youth programming and council concern about near‑term budget constraints and CalPERS limits on part‑time hours.
The Willows City Council voted unanimously April 8 to authorize hiring a part‑time children’s librarian to restore library programs for children this summer.
Council members and dozens of residents who spoke during a long discussion divided over whether to restore the role as a part‑time position now or wait until the city’s finances can support a full‑time hire. After public comment and council questions, members approved a motion to hire a part‑time librarian; the motion passed 5‑0.
City staff and library advocates said reinstating a children’s librarian is needed to run summer reading and regular children’s programming. Pediatrician Becca Boney told the council that programs tied to the library reach families who otherwise lack books, and that “without a summer reading program… there is nothing for our kids to do here.” Phady Irons, coordinator for the…
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