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Library reports rising program participation and outlines 2026 budget; property‑tax shortfall noted
Summary
Library staff presented year-end participation gains—especially in children's programming—reported a proposed 2026 revenue figure and a small projected deficit, and told the board they approved a 15% staff pay increase; staff also flagged about $15,000 in uncollected property taxes.
Library representatives presented packeted statistics on Dec. 22 showing program participation increases compared with the previous year, with children's programs singled out as having the largest gains.
"I included in your packets statistics and some information that shows what we've done and what we've accomplished so far this year," a presenter said, highlighting children’s programming and passive activities where participation rose substantially.
On finances, staff said the November monthly financial report showed expenditures generally in line with budget but that property‑tax collections were behind by about $15,000. At the meeting the presenter reported an anticipated revenue figure for 2026 of $424,000 and described a slight projected deficit — the packet noted a small shortfall that staff characterized as common and covered by reserves carried from prior years.
The library reported five paid positions (four on-site staff and an executive director) and discussed salary increases: "The biggest increase is in salaries and we approved... a 15% increase for our staff," the presenter said. Staff also said they intend to develop a capital-improvement plan, review depreciation on buildings and equipment, and pursue partnerships with other libraries and local organizations for STEM and technology programming.
The presenter described a technology expense overrun: the library budgeted about $4,000 for computer services but spent roughly $15,000 to upgrade systems after a software change.
Board members asked practical questions about trustee interviews (the town and the school board will interview candidates Jan. 6; the intergovernmental agreement allows five written questions from the town) and about statutory eligibility (owners or registered voters in the district are eligible; staff referenced the statute but did not provide a citation). Staff said they will provide a final audited report in February once audits are complete.
What happens next: Staff will finalize audits and provide the final year-end financial report; trustees and town staff will proceed with Jan. 6 interviews for board vacancies and the library will continue pursuing a capital plan and partnerships for 2026.
