Canby library director warns of funding shortfalls, requests work session on service funding

Canby — The director of the Canby public library told the council that rising costs and shifting demand patterns are stretching library resources and asked the council to schedule a work session to consider funding strategies.

The director said demand for both physical books and digital materials has increased since the pandemic, and digital subscriptions are expensive. The library has reduced entry‑level staffing (library page positions) and cannot currently cover operating hours or the level of service the community expects without additional resources. The director requested a staff work session to present a funding plan and options for sustaining and expanding services, noting the library may be asked to absorb extra community support roles if other agencies reduce services.

Council members requested that staff bring a short, focused briefing on the library’s budget structure and funding options, including possible general‑fund support, levies, or partnerships. A work session was requested so council members and the public can ask questions and review options before the budget process.

Next steps: the library director will coordinate with the city administrator to schedule a work session and prepare budget‑level options for council review.