Library board approves MLTA membership, confronts funding pressure
Wilbraham Library Board approves MLTA membership, faces FY27 budget squeeze. The board unanimously voted to join the Massachusetts Library Trustees Association for $100 annually while confronting a potential FY27 budget shortfall. Library Director Melissa Harter requested $138,470, but Finance
Library Board of Trustees · Meeting of March 24, 2026
Wilbraham Library Board approves MLTA membership, faces FY27 budget squeeze. The board unanimously voted to join the Massachusetts Library Trustees Association for $100 annually while confronting a potential FY27 budget shortfall. Library Director Melissa Harter requested $138,470, but Finance Committee member Todd Scheider suggested lower funding levels that could leave the library $30,000 to $42,000 short.
Underfunding threatens the library's ability to meet state minimum material-acquisition requirements and could result in loss of $44,000 in state aid and decertification. Director Harter outlined three options: request a state waiver, supplement with fundraising, or cut hours and staff. Select Board Chair Michael Squindo recommended full funding.
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Source: the Library Board of Trustees meeting of March 24, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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