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Library director details growth in visits, programs and a bookmobile request
Summary
Library Director John Hayden reported rising use — more than 106,000 visits Oct–May and increasing checkouts — and requested converting a part‑time library tech to full time plus capital items including a bookmobile, new flooring and a story shuttle to expand outreach to nursing homes and homebound residents.
John Hayden and library staff presented the library's FY26–27 budget request and program summary, noting growth in visits, digital checkouts and outreach. Hayden said the library received multiple grants and awards, expanded programming (more than 159 programs with 8,155 attendees Oct–May), and operates a genealogy center and digital arts lab used by residents of all ages.
Hayden highlighted capital and personnel requests: one part‑time library technician to be converted to full time to meet demand, flooring replacement, a story shuttle for outreach and a potential bookmobile to serve nursing homes, hospitals and neighborhoods. "A bookmobile is something I really believe the city really could use," Hayden said, outlining the potential to deliver books and Wi‑Fi to homebound residents and care facilities.
Council discussed funding options and alternatives such as trailers or joint county ventures; staff noted the library currently has $12,000 set aside toward a bookmobile and that used units vary in price. Hayden also read patron comments about the library's community role and thanked volunteers and partner organizations that support programming.
