5.3 LIBSR 07-26-2022GREAT RIVER REGIONAL LIBRARY - Explore. Learn. Connect.in
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To: Elk River Library Board
CC: Lori Lundstrom, LSC
From: Ryan McCormick, Patron Services Supervisor
Date: July 26, 2022
2023 Great River Regional Library Budget
At their May meeting, the Board reviewed the 2023 Preliminary Budget. It reflects a 3.14 percent overall
increase from 2022, with the six regional counties carrying a large amount of the increase. Both the
Unassigned Fund Balance and use of cash reserves have decreased, and GRRL has seen some lower interest
revenue. The largest expenditure increase comes from the personnel line. The final 2023 Budget will go
before the Board for approval in July.
Elk River Library Additional Open Hours
GRRL Library Development Policy sets open hours for libraries with 4,000 to 20,000 borrowers at 41-49
hours per week. The current recommendation for Elk River is 48 weekly open hours, based on
circulation and usage patterns. In 2017, GRRL entered into an agreement with the City of Elk River to
add open hours through city funds. The city paid an annual amount for GRRL staff to support an
additional three (3) open hours per week, which provided a more consistent schedule. The service
agreement was in effect for five years and is set to expire on December 31, 2022.
A review of 2021 library statistics shows Elk River usage has declined since 2017, due in part to the
pandemic. Staffing levels have also changed to reflect this decline in usage. Costs to extend library
open hours beyond GRRL policy recommendations would be less than the prior five-year period due to
this change. The city has requested reconsideration of the agreement and that GRRL consider
continuing the additional three (3) hours within GRRL's operating budget. The GRRL board will discuss
at the their July meeting.
New Website
An update of the library's website, griver.org, is nearing completion with a preview currently available
to staff. Many of the features are similar to the current website, but with changes to the look,
navigation, and search functions.