Montclair Library Will Raise Fees For Adult School Programs

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The Montclair Public Library will raise fees and costs for its Adult School programs starting in 2019, administrators said.

Earlier this week, the MPL announced the following changes as of the new year:

• “Simpler registration” - Both the membership and registration fees will be eliminated
• “New price structure for Montclair residents” - Montclair residents get 50% off all classes and lectures in the library. All students pay full price for off-site classes.
• “Slightly higher prices” - Class prices will increase slightly but will still average “less than the cost of a movie ticket and an ice cream cone.”

“These changes are critical to the long-term stability and growth of our invaluable school,” Adult School Supervisor Nancy Iannace said.

In addition to the cost-recovery model for Adult School programs, the Montclair Public Library will continue to offer a wide variety of free classes, events, and programs for the public which are open to all, administrators said.

“The Adult School has been one of Montclair’s treasures since it was founded in 1934,” Library Director Peter Coyl said. “We are so proud that the Adult School became an integral part of the library in 2015. While there has never been any doubt about the value of the Adult School, this year we took a hard look at all aspects to ensure its long-term future. The Library Board of Trustees approved a plan to simplify management and registration and change the pricing structure that will begin in January 2019.”

Administrators said that the Montclair Public Library is seeking to raise $225,000 during its annual campaign, currently underway. Funds from this campaign will help support the programs of the library, including the Adult School.

People interested in supporting the annual campaign can donate on the library’s website (montclairlibrary.org) or can contact the Library Development Office at 973-744-0500, ext. 2269.

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