Director's Corner by Sandra Collins

As outlined in last month’s message, Northland’s 2010 budget will be 6% less than that of 2009. What does this reduction in our income mean for Northland’s users?

• The amount budgeted for purchase of books and other materials for the collections (CDs, DVDs, audio books, online databases, etc.) will be $190,100 as compared to $307,438 in 2009. We will be purchasing fewer titles and fewer multiple copies and waiting time for items on hold will most likely increase. Donations to our books and materials budget will be accepted gladly.

• Late fees on books, magazines, CDs, and audio books will be increased to $.25 per day as of January 1, 2010. Late fees on videos and DVDs will remain at $1.00 per day.

• Rental fees for the use of our meeting rooms by businesses will increase as of January 1, 2010.

• Rental fees for the use of our meeting rooms by nonprofits when their meeting is not open to the general public will increase as of January 1, 2010.

• A rental fee for nonprofit groups that are not based in nor have members living in one of Northland’s supporting communities will be instituted as of January 1, 2010.

• A longer period of time between check in of items and reshelving of items.

• Available technology maintained at current levels – no additional computers for public or staff user and new technology added.

There is some good news –Northland will be able to maintain its hours of service to our communities and the Northland Library Foundation has agreed to provide funding for the bookmobile service to Ross Township and Marshall Township. Please be assured that Northland’s staff is committed to providing quality service to our supporting communities.