Like many towns, Southampton is facing a financial crisis that requires an override to maintain town services with fewer cuts. The town library, Edwards Public Library, will have dire eliminations of staff and service if the override does not pass.
These are the potential impacts to the library. If the town does not meet the state’s required budget contribution and expenditure for books, the library may be decertified. In turn, the library may not receive State Aid to Public Libraries, access to federal grants or interlibrary loans and the most devastating, town patrons may not be able to borrow books from other libraries. If the override does not pass, all staff positions will be cut except for the director, again not meeting the state’s certification hours standard. Adult and youth programs will cease.
This town’s library is one of the few community spaces in Southampton and is the town’s gem with a welcoming, experienced staff offering a respite from this crazy world.
Southampton residents, please attend the May 2 Town Meeting to get the override on the ballot and vote May 19 to pass the override.
Faith Harrison
Southampton