The Highland Library Board is pushing for enhanced community support and funding strategies to elevate the library's role as a vital community resource. During the recent meeting on July 29, 2025, board members emphasized the need for proper staffing and fair employee compensation, alongside a robust collection of materials that would benefit the community at large.

One board member passionately stated, "We want an amazing collection that will benefit our society. Right? And we'll lift up the community." This sentiment reflects a broader vision of the library as a "gem of the community," where positive experiences are frequently reported by visitors.

However, discussions also highlighted financial challenges. The board explored various funding options, including the potential to adjust library fees or shift funding from a dedicated library tax to the general fund. One member suggested, "Let's just focus on... charge a fee to use the library, or increase the library tax," indicating a willingness to consider diverse funding mechanisms to sustain library services.

A notable idea presented was the possibility of expanding the library's physical space and generating revenue through room rentals for events, similar to practices at the Provo library. This approach could alleviate some financial pressures by allowing the library to fund maintenance costs through rental income, ensuring that tax revenue could be allocated solely for staffing and materials.

The board also discussed the potential for attracting donations for future expansions, with one member proposing, "Have we ever had any conversations with any type of donors... maybe they want the wing?" This proactive approach could open new avenues for funding and enhance the library's offerings.

As the board continues to navigate these discussions, the focus remains on ensuring the library not only serves as a community hub but also thrives financially, ultimately enriching the lives of Highland residents.