Greenfield library report shows use is up

Door counts are one way that local library officials are able to put a finger on the notion that they already have, that strong libraries are a quality of life topic.

Greenfield Public Library Director Danica Clayton shared these facts with the Greenfield City Council during an annual report given Tuesday, Jan. 28.

The library has been able to meet the needs of expanded services that the library has by supplementing city and county funding with grants. The library has seen success through grant funding in a door opener project, an infant play area and teen area, as well as in summer reading and other areas.

Clayton explained the library board would like to continue using reserve funds for big expenditures.

“The library board would like to continue to use those reserves for future projects and not for ongoing expenses. One of the projects on the table is finishing the shelving project — the adult room shelving was updated but the junior room has not seen that yet — and a new circulation desk, updating lounge furniture and technology updates like a firewall. A lot of those items I mentioned are specialized for the library world. Specialization also means a higher price tag. The library board is hoping the library reserve will help fund those.”

The estimated city contribution Clayton asked for comes in at a 3.5% increase from last year, totaling $95,285.94. The county contribution proposed is $16,722 with the state contributing $3,221.26.