Princeton Council and library reach last minute deal to restore $75K in funding

The Princeton Public Library and the Princeton Council have reached a last-minute agreement that will spare the library from making an additional $149,000 in cuts to programming or other expenses this year.

The proposed reductions and recent criticism of the library had angered many residents, who voiced outrage over the possibility of further cuts to Princeton’s central community hub. The library had already reduced its hours in response to the cuts, but still had to close the $149,000 budget gap.

Just hours before what had been expected to be a standing-room-only council budget hearing, a municipal public relations employee issued a press release containing a joint statement from the council and library announcing the deal.

“As part of this plan, the Municipality will increase its contribution by $75,000. The Library will help offset these costs by restructuring its employee parking permits, reducing the total number by 10,” the statement reads.

According to the statement, the library will close the remaining $75,000 gap through fundraising and other revenue-generating efforts.

“Both the Municipality and the Library value the strong partnership they share. The Municipality is proud to support the Library and the high-quality programs and services it provides to the community,” the joint statement said. “At the same time, PPL recognizes the importance of fiscal responsibility and the Municipality’s obligation to taxpayers.”

Council President Michelle Pirone Lambros, who serves on the council’s finance committee that had proposed eliminating the two hours of free parking for library patrons at the Spring Street Garage, called the agreement “a thoughtful and balanced solution that reflects both our commitment to the Library and our responsibility to taxpayers.”

“We’re pleased to have worked collaboratively to reach an outcome that supports the entire community,” Lambros said.

Christopher Van Buren, president of the library’s board of trustees, said he was grateful for the partnership with the municipality “in ensuring the library remains a vital and welcoming resource for all.”

“This agreement allows us to sustain the programs, services, and access our community depends on every day,” Van Buren said.