Okanagan Regional Library is attempting to restore fiscal balance among its members.
A 2013 study found that spending in some communities was out of alignment with tax revenue received, and the board directed management to create a plan to address this.
“We have drafted a staffing level plan for branches where spending needed to be reduced, and created a process where both unions and individual branches can provide input into the plan,” said Stephanie Hall, chief executive officer.
“This input will result in modifications to the plan. Once this work is complete, a finalized plan for each of those communities will be shared with local government, a press release issued, and then the ORL will be hoping to hear from all interested parties about their views and library service needs.”
Changes in staffing levels would be implemented over multiple years, as opportunities arise.
ORL is also reviewing other spending areas, including facilities costs and centralized services.
“There is no doubt that these are tough questions. Public libraries and our incredible staff are hugely valued in communities,” said Hall.
“At the same time, ORL is committed to fiscal transparency and fairness, and by moving pro-actively to align costs with revenue across communities, we’re living up to our commitments to local government, who are our major funders.”
The 2013 study can be found at www.orl.bc.ca/about-us.
