Peterborough library proposes flat budget while reporting higher program attendance and new "Library of Things"

Library Director Corinne Chronopoulos told the joint Select Board and Budget Committee that the Peterborough Public Library will present a flat operating budget for the coming fiscal year while absorbing salary, payroll tax and retirement cost pressures through cuts in other line items.

Chronopoulos said the library currently employs 12–13 people, the equivalent of about seven full‑time equivalents. Longtime head of youth services Lisa Bearce retired after two decades and was succeeded by Aimee Larue, who had been mentored into the role.

Program Librarian Rebecca Enman reported that adult program attendance doubled in the past year, totaling about 3,500 participants across 228 programs. Chronopoulos highlighted a shift toward large, multigenerational events (including a "Night Circus" themed birthday celebration) and said the library has introduced a "Library of Things" — a program enabling residents to borrow tools and games — funded via a grant and a tool donation from Belletetes and intended to be sustained by grants and donations.

The library projects operating revenue will increase from approximately $60,000 to $72,000 this year, with ongoing sources that include printing fees and non-resident card fees (the latter cost $85 annually and generated $5,875 last year). Room rental income is budgeted at $15,000, below last year’s $18,000 after the loss of a regular church renter; study rooms remain free and conference rooms are available at no cost to local 501(c)(3) nonprofits twice monthly.

Chronopoulos framed the library’s budget request as delivering clear taxpayer value through services that reduce household costs and expand cultural and educational programming. No formal budget votes were taken at the meeting; the presentation will inform subsequent budget deliberations.