Library Funding Overview

Since being established in 1955, Kitsap Regional Library has been a cherished community asset. As the community has grown and changed, Library services have changed as well. Today’s KRL Libraries are busier than ever, while funding to support them has not kept pace.

2001 - 2006 Statistics

• Active Library Users – 67% increase
  (176,188 Active Library Card Holders, 73% of the Kitsap Population)
• Circulation of Library Materials – 23% increase
• Number of Public Computers – 28% increase
• Electronic Holds Requested – 276% increase
• Commercial Database Searches – 341% increase
• Library Operating Revenues – 15.5 % increase

* Note: Updated 01/25/07 with actual 2006 end-of-year statistics

The increased demand, and limited funding, has significantly strained the Library system and infrastructure. The Library has implemented system-wide efficiencies and focused dollars on direct-service support. With a relatively flat operating budget, the Library has had to draw-down the KRL General Fund Reserves to maintain service standards in 2006, and will use the remaining General Fund Reserves to balance the budget in 2007.

Your Input

The KRL Board of Trustees formed a Community Advisory Committee to help assess a variety of funding-related issues. A series of “Great Libraries Discussions” with Library Director, Jill Jean, were held in early February (see schedule) and community members were asked to submit their opinions and ideas for addressing the Library’s funding issue through a Funding Priorities Survey. 926 individuals shared their input!

KRL Mission Statement:  Kitsap Regional Library serves the community as a center for lifelong learning and a steward of access to stories, information and knowledge

Board of Trustees: Jackie Aitchison, North Kitsap Representative (President); Teresa McDermott, Central Kitsap Representative (Vice President);

Anna Laurie, Bremerton Representative; Gail Mathison, South Kitsap Representaive; Althea Paulson, Bainbridge Island Representative