Closing branch libraries is no longer part of the plan for the Jefferson County Public Library in dealing with projected budget shortfalls — at least for now.
The library board and county commissioners are working on budget scenarios, some of which include reducing 2012 operating expenses by about $1.6 million.
That would come on top of reductions of $2.3 million the past two years, library officials say.
Previously discussed cost-cutting options included closing smaller branch libraries in Wheat Ridge, Edgewater and Conifer, closing all libraries Thursday evenings and eliminating 16 employee positions, among others.
Spokeswoman Rebecca Winning said a board study session two weeks ago worked out an expanded list of reductions, if necessary.
“While any (and) every option is painful, we’ve been able to take closing the community libraries off the table at this time,” Winning said in a statement.
“There will be an impact to service levels,” Winning said. “Given continued increases in demand, coupled with ongoing reductions in revenue, there’s no way we can continue to provide the same level of service we’ve provided in the past. But at this point, none of our budget scenarios includes closing any library.”
The board also extended the appointment of Pam Nissler as acting executive director.
After a four-month search and an evaluation of 26 candidates, including interviews with two finalists, the board backed Nissler, who has 40 years of experience in managing and directing libraries in the Denver area.
