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Ada Community Library outlines services, warns small libraries may feel federal cuts
Summary
The Ada Community Library presented to the Star City Council July 15, describing its four branches, mobile van service, a $5.3 million operating budget plus $1.4 million reserve, and a volunteer YouTube channel; trustees said federal funding cuts are likely to hit smaller rural libraries hardest.
Ada Community Library trustees told the Star City Council on July 15 that the district serves more than 65,000 residents through four physical branches and a mobile "connect branch," and asked the council to help publicize a volunteer-produced YouTube channel explaining district services.
Trustee (Speaker 6) said the Ada County Free Library District, established in 1984, operates branches in Star, Hidden Springs, Lake Hazel and a van-based service that brings materials and programs to day-care centers and assisted-living facilities. "We serve over 65,000 people," Speaker 6 said, adding the district has a current operating budget of $5,300,000 and holds a $1,400,000 operating reserve.
The trustee described services that extend beyond books: strategic materials sharing via a regional consortium, community meeting rooms, research assistance and specialty item lending such as camping tents, 3D printers and athletic equipment. Presenter Sean (Speaker 7) summarized the Links consortium as an 11-member joint-powers cooperative that gives patrons access to about 1.5 million items and moves material among libraries by courier.
Several patrons spoke about the library's community value. One longtime user said, "They have amazing programs for littles," citing storytimes, sign-language classes and recurring themed programs; another said they made longtime friends and used the library weekly. Speaker 6 also noted that branch manager Mary Ellington oversees the Star branch and thanked council members for support.
Council member Selman asked whether recent proposed federal funding changes would reduce services. Speaker 6 said federal funding administered through the National Institute for Libraries and Museums will see "major cuts" that are likely to affect small rural libraries most, but added, "I think you'll still have your audiobooks." The trustee encouraged city leaders to promote the library's outreach and its YouTube segments and left time for questions.
The presentation did not result in any formal action; the council proceeded to other agenda items after the Q&A.
