As the Library Director at Monterey Public Library, I am privileged to experience the direct and positive ways a public library can answer questions, meet needs and change lives. I see firsthand that library usage keeps rising, across the nation and within the City of Monterey, in response to difficult economic times and even more difficult personal and family choices.

What we are living though is unprecedented - severe financial distress that affects our lives, schools, work, families, neighbors and community. Access to information, skilled assistance, shared resources and creativity - these are more important than ever. And available to all at the library - in books, databases, magazines, CDs and DVDs, through public-use computers and laptops and in the person of friendly, knowledgeable staff here to serve.

During these times, when library use is up and community needs are greater than ever, it is with a heavy heart that I share news of upcoming changes to library services. These are the first effects of the City of Monterey's $7.4 million budget shortfall, and the potential cut of 1/5 of the Library's budget. There will most likely be many others.

Beginning on July 1, 2009, the Monterey Public Library will be open 6-days per week only - closed on Sundays. This will be the first time in over 30-years that the Library will not have a 7-day-per week open schedule. The first closed Sunday will July 5. The lobby book return will be open, and website services will still be available at www.monterey.org/library.

Also beginning July 1, 2009, overdue fines will go up for books and other materials not returned or renewed by the due date. Youth and teen items will be charged 25 cents per day, and adult items charged 50 cents per day.We know this increase in fines may be difficult for some - during the month of June we will be promoting  the many ways to avoid late charges - renew an item (in person, over the phone during open hours, by automated telephone renewal or online 24/7), or receive a courtesy notice via email several days before your items are due (make sure we have your correct email in your account).  

As June becomes July, and we begin working with a reduced budget, we'll be making other changes and reductions in service. We'll do our best to get the word out to all our customers and visitors as soon as we know - we'll post the most current information on our website as it becomes available. And please keep sharing your comments, concerns and ideas as we move forward into the future. I continue to welcome your input.

Kim Bui-Burton