Library conducts budget hearing

The Putnam County Public Library board reviewed the proposed 2007 budget during a public hearing Thursday.

Library Director Alice Greenburg informed the board early in the meeting that there were no changes to the budget, but later told them the library might have to do a little juggling at the end of the year especially with supplies budget.

Secretary Bonnie Nealon asked Greenburg if that will still keep them within the budget for the operating fund.

Greenburg said yes, and also informed the board that the materials budget was increased slightly in the book area. Greenburg said, "We've been very fortunate this year to a major gift." These gifts will be used for the books.

President Dorothy Lukenbill asked Greenburg what the difference was between this year's budget and last year's. There is a $40,000 difference between the budgets. This year's budget increased to $1,117,703, compared to last year's budget of $1,077,703.

Greenburg told the board that they might have to cut the budget back a little bit, but she is hoping that when the new color copier comes in, it might help increase the income of the library.

The estimated budget for the library in the following three funds are: $704,773 in the operating fund, $139,796 in the capital projects fund, and $273,134 in the debt services fund.

Greenburg handed the board some statistics from the Indiana libraries. The statistics showed the board where PCPL stands against other libraries. The population without contracts to other libraries is 34,311, and the total assessed valuation is $1,453,059.057.

The board compared the library to the public library in Goshen, Ind., which is at a similar level and tax rate to Putnam County. Greenburg explained to the board that there was an appeal process back in the 1980's that allowed libraries to increase their levees through appeals based on need. Goshen Public Library might have taken part in that process.

The appeal process is no longer in use, and according to Greenburg, Putnam County has been at the same level for many years.

The board will be voting on the budget Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 6 p.m. in Kiwanis Room. The next regular scheduled meeting is set for Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. The meetings is open to the public.