Apr
01

FY2012 proposed budget continues deep cuts to libraries

Today, Mayor Gray released his proposed budget for FY2012. As you are aware, the District is facing a $322 million budget gap for next fiscal year. All District agencies are affected including the DC Public Library. The Library’s FY2012 local budget is $34.5 million compared to $35.2 million in FY2011. This represents an overall budget decrease of $709,263. Additionally, there are cost increases in many areas, including operating new libraries that impact the Library’s budget.

There is some good news with this budget:

  • Neighborhood libraries will continue to be open six days a week with no reduction in hours.
  • Staffing will be provided for the new libraries scheduled to open later this year – Francis Gregory, Washington Highlands and Mt. Pleasant neighborhood libraries.
  • Building maintenance, custodial services and technology will continue at acceptable standards.

Unfortunately, there are reductions with this budget.

  • The budget for books, DVDs, CDs and other library materials will be reduced to $1.7 million – a decrease of $1.5 million from FY2011.
  • Training and travel funds are nearly eliminated.
  • Sunday hours at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library will be eliminated.
  • Audiovisual support services will be significantly reduced.
  • The Library’s printed calendar, Beyond Words, and select other printed materials will cease publication.
  • Some staff reductions are expected with this budget.
Mar
31

Mount Pleasant Library Renovation Zoning Issue

The chairperson of the DC Board of Zoning Adjustment has announced a second hearing on April 5th to allow “further deliberations” on the question of the zoning decision and for the participation of a board member who had been absent from the March 1st hearing. For more information, and to request an opportunity to address the Board, call (202) 727-6311.

Mar
12

The Mount Pleasant Youth Arts Fair returns in 2011

After a 1 year break, the Mount Pleasant Business Association is planning to once again sponsor a Youth Arts Fair in cooperation with the Friends of the Mount Pleasant Library in May 2011.

The event is still in the planning stages but we hope to host a reception for the Artists and their teachers in early May and for the artwork to be on display for the entire month of May. With the small size of the Interim Mount Pleasant Library, the planners are working with local businesses to display the artwork and support the reception as well.

Stay tuned for more details!

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