Medina County District Library Is Preparing to Make Budget Cuts

Due to a decrease in funding from the State of Ohio, of up to 20%, the Medina County District Library Board of Trustees has approved a $400,000 reduction in the 2009 budget. Unfortunately, we are facing this budget shortfall during one of the busiest times our libraries have ever seen. In 2008 we checked out over 3 million items, 25% more than in 2007. For the first time, over one million patrons visited our buildings, which is a 39% increase over the previous year. Library use has continued to increase during 2009, with an average of almost 4,000 people per day expected this summer. The administrative staff of MCDL is working closely with the Board of Trustees to make cuts that will have the least impact on library patrons as possible.

All of these cuts come from our operating budget that is funded through our local levy and through state funding. The state-funding portion makes up 43% of our annual budget with the rest being provided by the levy, fines and fees. Operating funds are separate from the money provided by the bond that was passed in 2003.That money can only be used to pay for new construction and furnishings for our library buildings.

MCDL began making cuts at the beginning of the year and has already cut $200,000 from the budget. This was achieved by working with insurance companies to save money, cutting back on conferences and workshops attended by MCDL staff, leaving some jobs unfilled as workers retired or left, cutting our materials budget, stopping insertion of the Library Live newsletter in the local newspapers, and discontinuing use of plastic bags, among other cuts. We are continuing to evaluate other options.

MCDL is working with staff to cut hours through two new voluntary programs. A voluntary retirement incentive program and a voluntary reduction in hours program are being offered to staff. We hope that staff participation in these programs will help to reduce staff layoffs at our libraries. Other cost cutting measures are also being carefully considered. The start of Sunday hours in Medina and Brunswick will be delayed until October 4. MCDL will also be decreasing the number of free prints on our computers from 10 to 5 beginning July 1.

We ask for your support during these tough times and will continue to strive to bring you outstanding library service.