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Library leaders praise proposed budget, call for an East Side library and expanded services
Summary
Library board and Friends group leaders thanked council for the proposed budget's support of library services, highlighted rising usage (from about 77,406 visits in 2021 to 529,000 in 2025) and urged sustained digital resources, outreach and Saturday openings — including a dedicated East Side branch tied to the planned recreation center.
Leaders of Norfolk's library network told city council they support the proposed FY2027 budget but urged the city to preserve and accelerate commitments to an East Side library and expanded services as demand climbs.
Vicky Rogers, chair of the Norfolk Public Library Board, said the system provides free services from Wi‑Fi and computer access to maker spaces and workforce programs and thanked council for the proposed investments that would sustain rising use. "Access to literacy has expanded," she said, noting visits rose from about 77,406 in 2021 to roughly 529,000 in 2025 and that outreach and e‑resources demand exceeds capacity.
Representatives of Friends groups — Jean Sports and Bobbie Fisher — echoed support, noting more than 400 outreach events planned for 2026, a subscribership of about 90,000 for e‑newsletters and heavy demand for items and digital resources. Fisher asked the council to consider opening branches on Saturdays to meet demand, and both Friends groups offered to help facilitate an East Side library when budget conditions permit.
The transcript records expressions of gratitude for current funding and appeals to preserve and expand library services, including a hopeful linkage between library planning and the proposed East Side recreation/library facility.
