05/29/2026
Many of you have reached out to ask about how the proposed FY27 budget cuts and the override vote will impact the Library.
The Library has a different funding model than City departments, combining City support with endowment support, fundraising, and grants to provide public library service.
The City currently provides less than half of the Library operating budget, No comparable department in the City brings in the percentage of outside revenue that the Library does, with the City spending only about $17/capita on library services in the yearly appropriation.
Over the last few years, the Library and City leaders have been working toward a more sustainable funding path for public library service in Easthampton.
In either budget scenario, the Library faces a reduction from the funding level needed to maintain services and continue long-term planning. However, if the override does not pass, we will see cuts not only in this fiscal year, but a bleak municipal future going forward, as well as a significant increase in need for our services, as other departments cut needed supports, an effective unfunded mandate that we will be unable to fully meet. See the slides for a breakdown on services and intangibles that will be lost or cut.
If the override passes, and even if it does not, we are aware that Easthampton residents will face significant cost increases on multiple fronts, from fuel to entertainment to food.
The Library is committed to using all the resources available to us and all of the collaborations we can organize with City, non-profit, and business entities to ensure that Easthamptoners have a safe, well-cared-for, third space in which to read, research, pursue their passions, handle daily life tasks, and enjoy rich programming that enhances their lives.
Our vision is best served when we provide these services in a fully resourced City environment, but we recognize the hard decisions that many are making, and plan to provide respite, support, and delight.
