What is the status of KRL’s budget?
Because the cost of library materials and services was increasing far faster than library income, KRL asked voters for a tax increase in 2007. That levy proposal was defeated. In response, the library completely reworked its budget, cutting spending to bring it in line with revenue growth. Open hours were reduced at all nine branch libraries. The budget for buying new books, magazines, CDs and DVDs was cut. Money to upgrade existing technology and purchase new technology was reduced. Building maintenance money was cut. Staff size was reduced through attrition. The entire KRL staff accepted a pay freeze in 2009 to help balance the budget. As a result of all these cuts, our budget is balanced, but our services are sustainable only at the most basic levels. If there is no levy increase, KRL will face more cuts in hours and will have to consider closure of one or more branch libraries within a few years.
