Russell Library supporters warn maintenance cuts would jeopardize acclaimed services

MIDDLETOWN — Multiple speakers at the April 28 budget hearing urged the Common Council to preserve funding for the Russell Library, citing both its community value and near-term facility needs.

Anne Percival, a trustee, told the council the library provides free services — borrowing books and media, quiet space, computer access and programming — that are especially important when household budgets are strained. "When everyone's budget is being squeezed tighter and tighter, it's more important than ever for our city to offer resources to all of our residents that are free," she said.

Eamon Wozneski noted the library recently received the Connecticut Library Association’s Excellence in Public Library Service Award but warned that deferred maintenance threatens critical systems, including elevators and mechanicals in parts of the building that were not designed to last past 2000. He urged the council to consider diverting anticipated additional municipal aid toward library repairs.

Julie (Julia) Lomaderas and other residents said they have personally relied on and saved money through library services and asked the council to keep the library’s budget intact rather than cut maintenance lines. Several written submissions supporting the Russell Library were also placed in the record.

The mayor’s office letter and subsequent public comments acknowledged tight fiscal pressure, including a 5.49% proposed increase and increased pension and insurance costs, but supporters asked councilors not to reduce funding that preserves access and building safety. The hearing produced no immediate policy change; council deliberations on line-item adjustments will follow.