Editor's note: this blog post was revised and updated as of May 2026.
TRL is continuing work to address an ongoing budget shortfall, including an estimated $1.8 million reduction to the materials selection budget (approximately 37%). Collections staff have begun planning adjustments to purchasing practices to help mitigate the impacts of the budget reduction. In response to questions from the public we would like to share an overview of what library patrons can expect now, and in the months ahead.
Holds Ratio Increase
TRL uses a holds ratio to determine when to buy additional copies of popular titles. Previously, if an item reached the threshold of 5 holds to every 1 copy (5:1) we would purchase extra. This ratio will now increase to 6 holds to every 1 copy (6:1) and will be applied to both physical and digital items. However, due to the often substantially higher cost of digital items an 8:1 ration may be used in some cases.
Changes to Libby/Overdrive
Checkout and holds limits have already been reduced to 10 each, down from a limit of 12 previously. Going forward, fewer new titles will be added and fewer copies will be purchased overall.
Purchase Suggestions Resume
The option to submit a suggestion to add a title to the collection will return in early May. Users will see the "+Submit a Suggestion" button available in their library account dashboard. Purchase suggestions are limited to 2 per month. Please be aware that there are limited funds available for retrospective buying for February-April. The ebook and digital audio options have been removed from the suggestion form. Please use the “notify me, opens a new window” tag option in the Libby app to express interest in items for the digital collection.
Patrons are encouraged to use the Interlibrary Loan service, opens a new window for items published more than a year ago.
Focus on High-Demand Materials
Our focus remains on high-demand authors popular subjects, films, TV, and series continuations.
Kanopy Streaming Monthly Ticket Change
In order to maintain the Kanopy service through the end of 2026 we have reduced the monthly ticket allotment from 16 to 12.
Database/Online Resources Reductions
We are in the process of identifying resources that will not be renewed for 2027. More updates will be announced later this year.
Throughout the remainder of 2026, all areas of the collection will be evaluated for potential cost savings including print and digital collections, and online resources. To help us allocate limited funds appropriately amidst reduced purchasing and higher holds ratios, we are requesting that patrons consider canceling any holds that they may no longer want or need, especially on digital materials.
Thank you for your patience and understanding. Please check our Budget & Funding page or sign up for our newsletter to receive additional news and updates as soon as they are available.
