Find out more about the Bluffton-Richland Library Foundation here.
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The library continues to operate with significant reductions in state funding. State funding was further reduced in 2012 and remained frozen at reduced levels into 2013.
The library's 1 mil, ten-year levy (passed by voters in 2006 and renewed in 2016) now provides nearly 30 percent of the library's annual revenue. The library administration and staff continue to work hard to avoid reducing weekly service hours while we operate with combined cuts that exceed 16 percent per year.
Library services would have been drastically cut if the levy had not been in place when the economy declined in 2009 and would continue to be drastically cut today.
How have we avoided cutting hours and services thus far?
We identified numerous opportunities to reduce expenses, streamline processes, re-negotiate contracts and operate more efficiently. Our use of volunteers also increased and we became a host agency with Pathstone, a senior job training program.
Both the library and the Friends group increased fundraising efforts to avoid further cuts in new materials. Local community businesses and community members continue to provide priceless support ---both financially and by volunteering time and/or talent. The library also closes additional days before and after some holidays to save on energy and staffing.
We also welcome financial donations of any amount. Please take a few minutes to explore additional ways that you can support literacy and lifelong learning by browsing the options listed under this "Support Your Library" tab.
Thank you for your understanding and ongoing support.
