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Greenland library director seeks modest increases as use surges; trustees back added hours

Greenland Board of Selectmen · December 7, 2024

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Summary

Library director outlined a budget rise driven by increased e‑resource usage, expanded programming and a small staffing increase; trustees warned of burnout and urged funding to retain staff.

The Greenland Public Library director reviewed a budget request that reflects growing usage and programming. The director said usage of digital resources has grown sharply and the library added Hoopla and Canopy to expand e‑resources, which raised recurring costs; the budget includes new e‑resource fees and a small staffing increase (programming staff from ~24 to 35 weekly hours) to support expanded hours and meetings.

The director described a recent one‑time HVAC repair ($~10,400) and ongoing building maintenance costs. Trustees voiced concern about staff hours and retention, saying the library relies heavily on dedicated staff and volunteers and that understaffing risks burnout and loss of services.

Trustees also noted generous community donations and a friends group that raised funds for the building; the director said some capital and equipment expenses are being funded from those sources.

What’s next: The select board advanced the library budget at the meeting; trustees will continue to track program growth and report back on usage and staffing impacts ahead of final budget adoption.