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Library asks for bookmobile, programming staff and facility upgrades as usage rebounds
Summary
Library staff reported rising visits, checkouts and program attendance and requested a bookmobile (estimated $150,000–$170,000), flooring and furniture upgrades, and conversion of a library tech to a full‑time programming role to expand outreach and educational offerings.
Library staff presented an extensive overview of services, usage and requests ahead of the FY25‑26 budget cycle. The presentation noted rising library visits and checkouts year to date, robust programming (hundreds of programs and thousands of attendees annually) and increased outreach and volunteer support. Staff highlighted digital services such as Libby, Hoopla, Blackstone Audio and a free Boundless program provided through the state library.
On capital asks, the library requested funding for a bookmobile (staff estimated approximately $150,000–$170,000 for a van‑type model, with ramp costs cited as the primary driver), new flooring and updated furniture, and proposed converting a library technician into a full‑time library programmer to expand newsletters, branding and programming. Staff also reported outreach and partnership activity with local ISDs and community groups and previewed plans for an author festival and other fall programming. Council members praised the library's growth and asked staff to provide more detailed counts and proposals; no final budget vote occurred at the meeting.
