LWV Talks Future of Library

There’s a lot of chatter these days about the future of Indiana’s public libraries, and the Crawfordsville District Public Library has not escaped the rumor mill. With changes to the property tax code and federal funding cuts making headlines, some in the community worry that beloved library services will disappear overnight. But a closer look at how Indiana libraries are funded – and a candid conversation with Theresa Tyner, CDPL’s head of library services – shows that reality is far less dire than the myths suggest.

First, it’s important to understand how Indiana libraries like CDPL are funded. For CDPL, the lion’s share of the budget – about 75 to 80 percent – comes from local property taxes, the formula for which is changing, as we noted in our conversation with Mayor Todd Barton in last week’s column. Other sources include state taxes, a portion of local income tax distributions, donations and some grants and proceeds from fundraising activities like the monthly book sale – which supports reading programs for all ages.

Tyner said that this year marks a pivotal moment for CDPL’s finances: the library’s 20-year mortgage will finally be paid off. While this is cause for celebration, it also means the library loses a dedicated debt levy and a significant portion of its local income tax funding, which was tied to that bond. Already, CDPL has seen a $26,000 drop in LIT receipts, and next year, the loss could climb to $146,000.

However, Tyner and her team have prepared for this transition using the Library Improvement Reserve Fund, transferring more than $100,000 a year from operating funds whenever possible to cushion the blow.

This year’s property tax code changes at the state level, including recent legislation aimed at providing property tax relief, will affect libraries across Indiana, reducing statewide library revenues by millions in coming years. The exact impact on CDPL is less severe than many fear now, though there are many unknowns. Because the library’s bond is paid off, some of the projected losses in state reports don’t match CDPL’s actual numbers. Tyner has worked directly with state officials to clarify these discrepancies and expects the losses to be more manageable than some forecasts suggest.

Another myth worth dispelling is that federal cuts will decimate our local library services. While it’s true that the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services has reduced its grants to the Indiana State Library, which in turn affects programs like INSPIRE (the statewide research database) and local connectivity grants, CDPL is less reliant on these funds than many peers.

“We don’t heavily rely on federal grants, which minimizes our exposure to national cuts,” Tyner explained.

The library’s direct federal grant funding has been minimal, and while state-level reductions (such as the $1.3 million cut to INSPIRE) are concerning, the Indiana State Library has pledged to absorb these costs for now.

The major budget concerns are upgrades to the library and museum because of building maintenance – the museum, established in 2007, was a Carnegie library in 1907 – and the 20-year-old library building is showing signs of good use. Carpets and furniture need replaced. While the computers for patrons, a legally required service the library provides to at least 500 unique patrons monthly, were replaced last year, the internet connectivity bill funds will take a hit.

What about the services that matter most to patrons? CDPL’s offerings are as robust as ever. The library’s website and Tyner’s own account highlight a delightful array of programs: story times, STEM clubs, Dungeons & Dragons sessions, nature and technology classes, resume help, homebound delivery, legal clinics, resource navigation and more. Meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, notary services and a diverse collection of books, audiobooks and digital resources remain available to all.

Some services, such as access to the Libby app for e-books and audiobooks, are funded through a consortium model. While the state library’s budget helps cover the software, CDPL pays its share for content, and Tyner is confident that, even if state support wanes, the library will continue to prioritize this resource.

“Libby isn’t going away,” she assures.

The same goes for INSPIRE.GOV, the statewide library database. While its future is not guaranteed, the state library is doing everything it can to keep it running, and any changes would be felt statewide, not just in Crawfordsville.

For groups who rely on the library, including homeschoolers, non-English speakers and the visually impaired, there are no plans to cut services. Homeschoolers will still find educational kits, interlibrary loans and programs like LEGO robotics. Spanish-language materials and partnerships with organizations like La Conexión continue to serve non-English speakers. The visually impaired can count on audiobooks, large-print books and access to the National Library Service, which remains funded.

If there is one area where CDPL might make a change, it’s in operating hours. Currently, the library is open 68 hours a week – far more than the state minimum of 40 hours, which requires only two evenings and one weekend day. Tyner notes that reducing hours could be a practical step if needed, but would still leave CDPL well above state standards and ensure access during peak times.

Throughout all these uncertainties, Tyner is adamant about one thing: “We won’t eliminate programs or lay off staff. Our focus is on maintaining what our community relies on.”

Staff morale, while naturally anxious in the face of budget headlines, remains strong thanks to open communication and a shared commitment to service.

The legal framework in Indiana is designed to keep libraries accountable and sustainable. Annual budgets are approved by locally appointed boards and reviewed by the Department of Local Government Finance. Large capital projects are subject to public hearings, petitions and even referenda if costs exceed certain thresholds. This ensures that local taxpayers have a voice in how their library is funded and managed.

In short, while changes to property tax law and federal funding create real challenges, the Crawfordsville District Public Library is not on the brink of crisis. Thanks to prudent planning, diversified funding, and a deep commitment to community needs, CDPL stands ready to weather the storm – and to continue serving as Crawfordsville’s beating heart for many years to come.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, multi-issue political organization which encourages informed and active participation in government. For information about the League, visit the website www.lwvmontcoin.org; or, visit the League of Women Voters of Montgomery County, Indiana Facebook page.