Ridgefield Reviews Library Budget, Weighs Rising Costs And Increased Town Share

RIDGEFIELD, CT — Ridgefield selectpersons on Jan. 28 began formal review of the proposed 2026–27 budget for the Ridgefield Library, hearing detailed projections on rising operating costs, staffing, and capital planning but taking no votes on funding levels.

Library officials presented an operating budget that would increase the town’s share of library funding, raising municipal support to about 72.5 percent of total revenue, up from roughly 71.6 percent in the current year.

Library Director Brenda McKinley said the request reflects continued high usage and rising fixed costs, particularly utilities, staffing, and materials. She reported more than 229,000 visits in the most recent year, over 311,000 items circulated, and a roughly 18 percent increase in program attendance to more than 40,000 participants.

McKinley said the library’s operating model combines town support with private fundraising, investment income, and service fees, but that non-tax revenue sources are under pressure. She cited flat fundraising growth, declining passport processing revenue following a post-pandemic surge, and uncertainty around future federal library grants.

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Treasurer Paul Hastings said personnel costs remain the library’s largest expense, with no net increase in staffing proposed. He said the budget includes a 3 percent wage increase, consistent with town guidelines, while projecting a 10 percent increase in health insurance costs. Benefits expenses are expected to decline slightly due to changes in staff enrollment.

Utility costs were a major focus of discussion. Hastings said the electricity line item rose significantly after recent bills exceeded projections, prompting a higher budget estimate for the coming year. Library officials said limited roof space restricts the feasibility of installing solar panels.

Selectpersons questioned the library’s investment strategy, which includes drawing approximately 5.5 percent annually from unrestricted funds valued at about $5.5 million. Hastings said the library’s finance committee is reviewing whether investment performance can be improved while managing risk.

Capital planning was also reviewed, with library officials describing mostly routine replacement needs rather than major construction. Proposed capital items include replacement of aging computers, network equipment, and monitors; building systems maintenance; and long-term planning for equipment installed during the recent renovation. Officials said no major structural projects are anticipated in the near term.

Several selectpersons asked about staff turnover, service demand, and whether operating hours could be expanded. McKinley said turnover averages four to five positions per year and that Sundays are now among the library’s busiest days, but added that current resources limit the ability to add hours.

No public comment was taken during the library presentation. The Board of Selectpersons did not vote on the library budget, which will continue through the town’s budget review process before moving to the Board of Finance.