Everett Public Library reduce operations in light of city budget cuts

EVERETT, NOV 25: To address huge cuts to the city of Everett 2025 budget, both of the Everett Public Library locations will be reducing hours of operation and staff.

All Everett city government departments will be impacted by the proposed budget, but the library, streets and parks will be hit the hardest.

Effective Monday, December 1, library hours will be reduced from 96 hours to 72 hours per week, Director of the Everett Public Library Abigail Cooley said during last week’s city council meeting.

Overall, the budget proposed by Mayor Cassie Franklin and her team reflects a 12% cut from 2024. The city is currently working to address a 12.6 million dollar deficit within its general fund.

Three library employees, equivalent to two Full-time Equivalent (FTE) employees, and seasonal employees opted for the Voluntary Separation Incentive Program. Nearly four FTE positions will remain vacant for 2025.

To avoid further layoffs, the library offered a Reduction in Work Program to staff. This program allows workers to voluntarily reduce work hours or take furloughs. Currently, 16 individuals have opted for this program, Cooley said.

Both libraries, the main (2702 Hoyt Ave.) and Evergreen Branch (9512 Evergreen Way) will have the same hours. Both will be closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Schedule:

• Tuesday & Wednesday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Thursday: Noon- 8 p.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Saturday: Noon- 5 p.m.

There will also be a $230,000 reduction in funds for library materials Cooley said. Which will cause a reduction in books, movies, downloadable and streaming items.

“The structural budget deficit is real, and there’s real consequences for not being able to balance our budget because of the structural budget deficit,” Councilmember Paula Rhyne said during the council meeting.

There could also be a reduction in public programs that the library can offer. Programs that will be potentially cut or reduced include story times, STEM programs, adult educational programs, craft events, book clubs and more Cooley said.

Access to in-library Social Work Services will also be reduced due to the reduced hours of operation, something that Cooley expressed concern for.

“Library staff have been put into a position to act as a social service more and more but with fewer resources. Staff are experiencing trauma, and burnout and library staff are fearful about the detriments that may occur with library doors closed for longer periods of time,” Cooley said.

Despite the cuts, Cooley reassures that library staff is committed to serving the community.  

The council will vote on the final city budget on Dec. 4.