Library board objects to lost morning hours as township approves school-space agreement

The Delanco Township Committee voted to authorize execution of a library-space agreement with the Board of Education covering space at M. Joan Pearson School. The resolution (2026-110) passed on a roll call after trustees and the public raised concerns about revised hours that move opening times later in the day.

"I want to 1st unequivocally state we are disappointed with the outcome of having the morning hours terminated by the library use agreement," Christine Holland, president of the library board, told the committee during public comment. She said referendum language establishing the addition for library use and historical intent mattered to local patrons and that trustees will seek to regain morning hours in future negotiations. The mayor and other members said the agreement secures space for the library for at least the next 14 years and noted the township offered the municipal building for morning activities such as yoga and story time that may not be possible at the school under the new schedule.

Why it matters: the agreement provides a stable location for library services but alters access patterns—particularly for parents and patrons who relied on morning hours. The administrator said staff and trustees will continue dialogue with the school board to seek further accommodations.

Outcome: the committee approved Resolution 2026-110 to execute the library-space agreement by roll call; administrators will coordinate logistics and alternative morning space as needed.