Since the beginning of our library district in 1992, we have always "set aside" 1/7 of our tax revenues for capital improvement projects that might be needed at our various locations.

Over the years, we have had to make changes to the amount directed to individual library branches versus the funds retained for district use (such as implementing a district-wide library circulation system).

In August 2008, Branch District Library switched integrated library computer systems to Evergreen, an open source alternative to more expensive proprietary systems. This move has achieved the intended result of considerable cost savings to the library district.

Therefore, effective retroactive to January 2009, the library board has decided to reorganize the way that funding for our Capital Improvement Fund is divided between the branches and funds “set aside” for future projects. Beginning this year, the share allotted to the branches will be increased from 40% to 50%.

In two years, we will review this situation again, with the intention of increasing the branches’ share of the Capital Fund at that time.

Throughout my tenure here as Director, we have placed an emphasis on trying to improve our services to you, while working to save money at the same time. Our continuing use of open source computer software such as Evergreen should ensure that this process will continue over time.