A recent survey of 90 public libraries in Connecticut indicates that most libraries are seeing substantial increases in library use. At the same time, many of these same libraries are either experiencing budget cuts now or are expecting them for next year.
Here is a summary of the survey results:
- 76 of 87 libraries expect no budget increase of any kind in FY2010.
- 26 of these libraries report budget cuts in the current FY.
- 6 of these libraries are reporting cuts over 20%
- Total Monthly Circulation for 87 libraries reporting is running 8% higher than last year.
- 24 libraries are reporting circulation increases of 10% or more.
- Total Monthly Library Visits for 68 libraries reporting is running 5% higher than last year.
- 52 of 57 libraries report an increase in Circulation over the same period last year.
- 33 of 45 libraries report an increase in Library Visits.
- 35 of 48 libraries report an increase in Program Attendance.
- 24 of 42 libraries report an increase in Reference Transactions.
- 35 of 44 libraries report an increase in Internet Computer Use.
History indicates that library use always increases during bad economic times. This appears to be the case in the current crisis as well. Connecticut library statistics show increases in all categories.
Despite the extra usage, there is a definite consensus that libraries are in for some serious budget cuts. Typical comments include:
- “Expect it to be a lean and difficult year.”
- “We have been asked to prepare for a flat scenario in the Town appropriation and our annual appeal is likely to decline again.”
- “However, a flat budget is a negative budget.”
- “We have been asked to submit a flat budget. Hopefully it will be approved.”
- “We have been asked to plan for no increases for the next two years”
- “It looks like we will be cut about $100,000. We will be losing personnel.”
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