SOUTH BRUNSWICK: Library fights to meet needs

by Davy James, Staff Writer
   As the effects of the economic downturn spread, the South Brunswick Public Library may struggle to maintain its level of services as it sees demand rise.
   Each public library has a minimum funding level that is based on property tax value, and the SBPL is anticipating a cut in municipal funding of $18,000 from last year’s $2.78 million.
   ”When property values decline, then the minimum funding goes down as well,” said Library Director Chris Carbone. “When times were good, then the township was able to provide above the minimum level. They’re still supporting us at a strong level and we’re working very hard to live within that level because times are tough for everyone.”
   The library also receives support from fundraisers held throughout the year and from groups like the Friends of the Library. The help is needed more than ever as library use is on the rise.
   In the past year, the library lent out 550,000 items such as books and DVDs, according to Mr. Carbone. That is up from 518,000 items last year, while about 800 people use the library’s services each day.
   ”We try to maintain what we offer because our services are in greater and greater demand,” Mr. Carbone said. “We’ve certainly seen a spike in the last year. People are coming in to use our computer lab for job hunting and a lot of other services we have to offer that help people save dollars.”
   Mr. Carbone said the use of the library’s various programs is up across the board.
   ”Our most popular programs are our children and family programs but we’re also working to respond to what people are looking for,” he said. “We’re going to have a seminar on job interviewing and a number of other seminars to help adults.”
   For families looking to save money wherever they can, the library can offer a number of services that help, according to Mr. Carbone.
   ”In times of economic struggle the library provides many things that people might not be able to afford on their own anymore,” he said. “Things like high speed Internet and the support of good family activities. Parents come in here and don’t have to worry about how they can afford our services.”
   Mr. Carbone said that during this tough time, the library is more important than ever in the role it can play in developing children and helping adults continue to learn.
   ”The library is the one place that supports democracy and the free and even access to ideas,” he said. “The library promotes lifelong learning and exposes people to different views of the world. From infants to the elderly, the library is the one place that serves all ages and helps them develop.”