Heights Libraries Plan For Budget Cuts Due To Coronavirus

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — The Heights Libraries are planning budget cuts of up to 20 percent to the General Fund because of the new coronavirus outbreak. The library system has also instituted a hiring freeze and put a hold on raises.

In a letter to the community, the Heights Libraries Board of Trustees said several policies have been adjusted to accommodate for the unprecedented changes caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Beyond the budget cuts and hiring freezes, the library system is increasing its acquisition of virtual books and decreasing its purchasing of physical books. Library system leaders have halted master planning and paused some library facility improvements.

"Buildings staff is conducting deep cleaning and, when possible, conducting facilities projects that were planned before the pandemic. Two such projects are the replacement of the air conditioner at the Lee Road branch and the outdoor waterproofing project at the Coventry Branch," the letter said. Soon there will also be automated materials handling system which will free up staff.

Library staff are receiving calamity pay for their work during this time, which includes organizing food pantries and blood drives, cleaning the four libraries and offering virtual learning and reading opportunities.

"These many services and preparations have been maintained because of the excellent financial position of the library. We anticipate cuts in state funding and local tax revenue, but with some strategic decisions we can continue to pay the library staff for an extended period of time," the board said.

Preparation has also begun for reopening the libraries to the public. It's unclear when restrictions on social gathering may take place, Gov. Mike DeWine has said the phased reopening of Ohio will begin May 1.

"With input from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, staff are creating plans for limited book circulation and other library activities once we are given the go ahead from the state," the Board of Trustees wrote in their letter.