Dear Centerville Public Library Patrons,
I am writing to inform you of several upcoming changes to library services beginning in 2026 due to significant budget cuts from the State.
The Centerville Public Library relies heavily on property taxes as a primary source of funding. Recent property tax caps enacted by the state legislature have resulted in a reduction of approximately 25% to the library’s operating budget. As a result, we must make difficult decisions to ensure the long-term financial stability and continued operation of the library.
Unfortunately, these reductions will require the following changes:
- Access to Ancestry.com will no longer be available through the library.
- Hoopla digital services will be discontinued effective February 1, 2026.
- We will no longer begin receiving the Indianapolis Star beginning in 2026.
- Library service hours will change in the future. Additional information will be shared as plans are finalized.
I understand that these changes may be disappointing and inconvenient, and we sincerely regret the impact they may have on our patrons. These decisions were not made lightly, and they are necessary to protect the library’s ability to serve the community in the years ahead.
If you would like to see library services restored or expanded in the future, we encourage you to contact your local state legislators to express your support for public library funding.
Please see our website for further expansion on some frequently asked questions.
Thank you for your continued understanding, support, and commitment to the Centerville Public Library.
Sincerely,
Emmanuel Mendez, Library Director
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the library making these changes?
The library’s budget has been reduced by approximately 25% due to property tax caps enacted by the state legislature. Because property taxes are our primary source of funding, these caps directly impact our ability to maintain current services.
Were other options considered before cutting services?
Yes. Library leadership carefully reviewed expenses across the organization. Service reductions were chosen only after other cost-saving measures were explored, with the goal of preserving core library services as much as possible.
Why are digital services like Hoopla being discontinued?
Digital services carry ongoing licensing and usage-based costs. Due to the reduced budget, the library can no longer sustainably support these expenses.
Will Hoopla return in the future?
At this time, there is no timeline for restoring Hoopla. Future restoration of services depends on available funding.
Why are periodicals being reduced?
Periodical subscriptions are a recurring expense. Reducing the number of subscriptions, including the Indianapolis Star, is one way to manage costs while prioritizing essential library operations.
Will library hours be reduced?
Library service hours will change in the future, but specific details are still being finalized. Patrons will be notified as soon as more information is available.
Can donations or fundraising prevent these cuts?
While donations and fundraising are appreciated and helpful, they cannot fully replace the loss of ongoing tax-based funding required to sustain library services.
How can I help support the library?
If you would like to see services restored or prevent further reductions, please consider contacting your local state legislators (listed below) to advocate for sustainable public library funding.
Senator Jeff Raatz: 800-382-9467
Representative Brad Barrett: 800-382-9841
Your voice makes a difference.
For additional questions, please contact library director or have staff connect you.