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Public Library warns reserves will shrink after 2025 projects; urges segregation of millage funds and restoration of previously reallocated capital
Summary
Library leaders told the council the New Orleans Public Library will undertake a Children's Resource Center renovation and multiple HVAC/elevator projects that will substantially reduce reserves; they asked that millage proceeds be segregated into a dedicated account to protect library funds.
Emily Payton, executive director of the New Orleans Public Library (NOPL), told the council the library doubled its outreach staffing in 2025, conducted more than 227 pop‑up events, and plans further expansion of mobile services and family‑focused programming in 2026.
Payton summarized major facilities work: a Children's Resource Center refresh with ADA‑compliant restroom upgrades; replacement of the main library's elevators and HVAC system; and HVAC and roof replacements at five to six branch locations. She said those projects will draw down reserves that began the year at $17 million and that after project spending the reserves will likely fall to under $3 million. Payton said the library's funding comes entirely from two dedicated millages and asked the administration to segregate millage receipts into a separate dedicated account to avoid commingling with general fund money.
Payton also described staffing pressures: 11 hires in 2026 before the hiring freeze, 13 separations and difficulty recruiting because of residency requirements and pay comparisons with neighboring parishes. She said the library plans to propose classification changes to create entry‑level positions that do not require college degrees to broaden recruitment.
On archives, the library noted the city archives hold 300 years of government documents currently housed in the main library basement and that options under consideration include moving archives to a different city building or relocating administration to create better space management. Multiple public speakers urged the council to restore $2 million in capital funds that had been previously allocated to HVAC/roof replacement projects and to avoid fencing that restricts library access; speakers said fencing around the main library criminalizes patrons and urged proactive maintenance planning.
Library leaders said they have received approval to pursue some hiring exemptions and that travel funded by outside entities (for example, Friends of the Library) can proceed under the city travel approval process.
