Duchesne County Library reports rising patron visits, slipping physical circulation; budget still slightly over
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Summary
The library reported nearly 2,500 patrons and 250 sessions in October at the Duchesne branch (highest post-COVID), a dip in physical checkouts in September, branch variances (Fruitland low, Tabiona high) and an expected budget shortfall of a few tens of thousands of dollars for the year.
The Duchesne County Library Board reviewed September and October statistics and the October budget at its Nov. 18 meeting, with Director Daniel Markley outlining patron counts and budget projections.
Markley said Duchesne branch patron visits were "nearly 2,500 patrons in October and 250 sessions," the highest post-COVID monthly total for that branch. He also noted physical circulation was the lowest in two years for September and that Fruitland recorded a low month with 29 checkouts in October while Tabiona had 175, its second-highest total.
On finances, Markley said the system will likely finish the year a "few $10,000 over budget" but expressed optimism for closing the gap next year. "We're, I think, next year, we're gonna get close to almost covering the Roosevelt payment in with our normal revenues," he said.
Markley highlighted upcoming holiday activities, including the Graham Cracker House events supported by Utah State University Extension and Northeastern Counseling; last year's turnout was about 150 in Roosevelt and 100 in Duchesne. He also said a budget sheet from October was included in the meeting packet for board review.
Board members asked clarifying questions about trends and outreach; staff said they will continue monitoring circulation and digital-transfer patterns as more patrons use online resources.