Letter to the Editor: Library Would Be Negatively Impacted By a Failed Override

Dear Winchester Patch:

Several writers have noted that a failed operating override would impact the . Since the town regularly gives the library the minimum amount to certify it as a public library, “decertification” would follow. Loss of borrowing privileges through the Minuteman Network is not the only impact “decertification” would have. The Library also automatically loses state funding (estimated at $28,000), loses eligibility for grants, and patrons lose the ability to borrow materials from other libraries in person (as well as online), unless the WPL can get a waiver from the state. The waiver process is fairly complex (and Winchester has never had to go through it before); the town would have to demonstrate “fiscal hardship” and that the cut to the Library was “not disproportionate.”

To stay eligible for the waiver, the Library would have to maintain operations according to state standards -- the most costly being library hours and book and materials purchasing. As it is, the Library uses outside funds to comply with the annual purchasing requirement (town funding is not sufficient), all Sunday hours are supported by donations, and teen and childrens’ programs  -- like Summer Reading  -- are funded by the Friends of the Library. Also, the waiver is only for a single year.

According to Library Director, Ann Wirtanen, loss of Minuteman Network borrowing privileges would go to the heart of what the Library does: over 54,000 items came in to Winchester residents last year that way. But all existing programs and services would have to be re-evaluated to maintain the core functions. At risk would be:

• Online materials like databases (which are also used at Winchester schools, like NY Times Historical database at the high school, and Lands & Peoples geography database at elementary schools);

• Senior citizens’, children’s, and teens’ programs;

• Museum passes, multi-cultural movie showings, other cultural or reference services.

Winchester Public Library is a social and cultural crossroads for the town and provides a wealth of resources and services to residents of all ages and backgrounds. "Decertification" would strike a blow to all that WPL does.

Susan Verdicchio