TRL Aims to Preserve Library Services and Community Connections

Earlier this year, TRL announced that the district is facing a budget shortfall as property tax revenues have not kept pace with rising operating costs over time. While the library has made organizational changes and operational adjustments to offset growing expenses, expenditures are now projected to exceed revenues beyond what can be addressed through incremental changes alone. To maintain financial stability and continue serving communities across its five-county service area, TRL must reduce operating costs, including staffing. 

Following the announcement, library leadership has been developing a plan intended to maintain access to library services, minimize the impact on the public, and ensure sustainability for the library while responding to the district’s budget challenges. 

“Our goal throughout this process has been to find a sustainable path forward while maintaining our commitment to the communities we serve,” said TRL Executive Director Cheryl Heywood. “Some things may look different in the months ahead, but we know how important it is for patrons to see familiar staff and continue accessing the services they rely on, and this plan was developed with that in mind.” 

TRL leadership and the Board of Trustees worked together to focus on several important priorities: keep libraries open and accessible to the public, staff libraries to the fullest extent possible, keep staff working in the libraries where they currently serve their communities, and limit the number of staff laid off to the fewest necessary to reach a sustainable operating level. 

“My goal...going forward is to continue doing what TRL has done since rural voters created this library district almost 60 years ago - providing library services to communities across our five counties,” said Board President Brian Mittge during the February 2026 meeting at which the Board authorized a reduction in force. “I want to keep libraries open, and this plan will help us do that to the greatest extent we can.” 

Library and Union leadership began meeting in early February to discuss staffing reductions. Upon agreement to offer a voluntary layoff option, the District received requests from 17 employees. An additional 44 positions were identified for involuntary layoff with notices delivered on March 15, 2026, that will go into effect May 15, 2026. 

TRL recognizes the dedication and contributions of its staff and is working to approach these changes with care for both employees and the communities they serve. Although some services and hours may change in the coming months, TRL remains committed to providing essential library services across its service area and will continue working to support communities during this transition. 

More information about TRL funding & budget can be found at TRL.org/Budget