Viking Library System asks Stevens County for 1% funding increase, highlights expanded outreach

The Viking Library System presented its 2024 annual report to the Stevens County Board and asked for a 1% increase in county funding for 2026, a request the system quantified as $68,706, an increase of $687 over the 2025 level. "I'm here today to present the 2024 Viking Library annual report and our 2026 appropriation request," said Erin, the Viking Library System director.

System staff told commissioners the regional system serves six member counties and 11 member libraries, and that county funds pay for bookmobile stops, delivery and interlibrary loan services. In Stevens County the system operates five bookmobile stops and circulated more than 1,600 items at those stops in 2024; system delivery to member libraries circulated nearly 26,500 items during the year.

Presenters described a mix of funding sources: member-county contributions, state aid and grants, and municipal dollars used to support buildings and day‑to‑day operations. Staff said the system recently completed a market-driven wage study and has implemented a new wage scale to address staff retention and classification updates. They also noted one-time capital needs for items such as a three‑year firewall/router subscription and replacement vehicles.

Commissioners asked about the system's fund balance and sustainability. Erin said the system has a committed fund balance of approximately $800,000 and carries several months of operating reserves because of the timing of larger revenue receipts.

The presentation included reports from local librarians. Anne Barker of the Morris Public Library and Heidi Lindner of the Hancock Community Library described increased summer programming, stronger community turnout and partnerships that supported prizes and events.

The board did not take formal action on the appropriation request during the presentation; the request was entered into the record for the county's 2026 budgeting process.