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Lacey library manager warns of TRL‑authorized staff reductions and proposed service‑hour cuts
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Summary
Library manager Christina Hancock told the Lacey Library Board that the Timberland Regional Library trustees authorized a reduction in force to shore up finances through 2026; she described recent layoff notices and proposed new hours for the Hawkesbury branch to address staffing shortfalls.
Christina Hancock, the library manager for the Lacey and Hawkesbury branches, told the Lacey Library Board that the Timberland Regional Library board of trustees authorized a reduction in force on Feb. 25 to address rising operating costs and support financial stability through fiscal 2026.
Hancock said the district initially affected five employees — four who took voluntary layoffs and one who was laid off while on probation — and that three employees received rescission letters the day before the meeting. "The board of trustees authorized a reduction in force or a RIF to support financial stability through the 2026 fiscal year," Hancock said.
Why it matters: The staffing changes have prompted proposed shifts in branch hours that would alter services the public relies on. Hancock presented proposed hours she planned to begin May 15: keep the Lacey branch Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and change the Hawkesbury branch to closed Mondays, open Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hancock said those proposals were drawn up before some rescissions were issued and remain "in flux" while the board, union and administration continue discussions.
Hancock also told the board that the district accepted the resignation of Cheryl Haywood and is discussing interim staffing options and conducting job interviews at a forthcoming board retreat. On the question of whether remodel funds could be shifted to personnel, Vice Chair Aza Noon asked if there was flexibility; Hancock said she believed remodel money was in a building fund tied to a donor gift and that she would "get more in the weeds" and report back at the next meeting.
The manager highlighted that several programs are supported by Friends funds and volunteer leaders; volunteer programming continues but still requires staff oversight. Hancock said some paid performers were reduced, though a few remain planned for the summer.
Next steps: Hancock said she will provide more detailed financial and fund‑use information to the board at a future meeting while talks with the union and administration continue. The board did not take formal action on the hour proposals during the meeting.
