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Library director warns service cuts if $50,000 not restored; board seeks clearer donation policy
Summary
Library director Steve said a previously used $50,000 CD had been tapped last year and that without restoration the library could face reduced hours, staff layoffs and program cuts; the library is seeking grants, revenue adjustments and clearer policies on donated/off-budget funds.
Steve, the library director, told the Board of Finance that the library last year used a $50,000 CD to maintain operations and that the board had expected that one-time resource to be restored. He said the library could not sustain the same level of services if that $50,000 is not returned to the operating budget and outlined possible reductions: limiting open days, eliminating a part-time floater position, and cutting programs.
The director said the library has pursued grant funding (including an Association of Rural and Small Libraries grant for energy improvements) and proposed an investment/endowment strategy to create ongoing revenue sources; he described two CDs (one at about $59,506 and another from a bequest near $67,000) as potential seed money for an endowment. He cautioned, however, that donors have stipulated conditions that would prevent donated money from being used to substitute for town funding.
Board members and library trustees argued for clearer accounting and a formal policy or MOU that explains how donated or off-budget funds are tracked and used so that donors' intent is respected and the town does not inadvertently rely on donations for operations. Trustees also stressed that the library already self-funds a high proportion of its budget through fees and donations, and that replacing the $50,000 with operating cuts would reduce hours and programs and could undermine community services.
The library director said he would provide updated figures and scenarios to the finance board before the next meeting and said he is exploring revenue increases from room rentals and modest fee adjustments to reduce the operating shortfall.
No formal vote occurred on the library funding during this meeting; board members asked the library to return with precise spreadsheet scenarios.
