The City of Essex Junction is in the midst of determining the budget for FY25. The Brownell Library was asked by the City Council to keep our budget the same as FY24 (level funding) or increase it by 2%. This lack of a budget increase or a minimal increase will necessitate decreasing the hours the Library is open, with less staff, fewer programs, fewer new books and fewer databases to access.  The Library will be unable to serve the community in the way we have come to expect.  In addition, the Library is the only City department being asked to provide information about a level budget or 2% increase.

We, the Brownell Library Board of Trustees ([email protected]), need your help.  We want to maintain the quality services the Library offers and are asking you to contact the City Councilors to let them know how Brownell positively impacts you, your family, and the Essex Junction community.  We also need supporters to attend the budget hearings and coffee chats the Councilors are hosting so they will see how important the Library is to the citizens of Essex Junction.

If needed, a sample script might be “We have learned the Brownell Library must decrease their budget request for next year (FY25) significantly, which will result in fewer hours, services, books, databases and staff .  We use the library to/for ___________________and it will seriously affect the quality of life for myself and my family if services are diminished. Please support the library’s request for funding for FY25.”  

City Councilor Names and Emails

Budget hearings and coffee chats

February 14 6:30 PM City Council Meeting/Budget Work Session (Lincoln Hall)

February 28, 6:30 PM City Council Meeting/Budget Work Session (Lincoln Hall)

The Brownell Library Trustees and staff thank you for your support.