By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

WARSAW — The Warsaw Community Public Library Board of Trustees held a public budget hearing prior to its regular meeting on Monday, Sept. 13.

WCPL’s total operating fund for 2022 is $3,594,529; this is an increase from last year’s operating budget of about $84,000. Funding for the library’s new community outreach department is included in the 2022 budget.

No one from the public attended the budget hearing.

WCPL Director Ann Zydek said the library’s community outreach department has been busy making contacts within the community. Anna Jackson is WCPL’s community outreach librarian.

“She (Anna) went to an educator’s luncheon and a number of school open houses (in August),” said Zydek. “They (the community outreach department) are also responsible for what’s being offered here at the library, getting that out on social media.”

During the regular meeting, board members also approved a resolution to reduce the 2021 budget.

Business Manager Renee Sweeny told the board she will be reducing encumbrances from 2020, which amounts to $23,686. The operating fund will be reduced by $581,379, while the rainy day fund will be reduced by $125,000.

The board’s next meeting is at 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 18.