Library adjusts hours

Citing budget restrictions, Magness Library Board of Trustees Chairman Benjamin Myers announced on Tuesday afternoon upcoming changes to the library’s operating hours, the most notable of which is the facility’s closing on Saturdays.

Going into effect this Saturday, the library’s new hours will be Monday and Tuesday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Wednesday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Thursday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The changes add one hour to Wednesday’s opening times and two hours to Thursday’s while eliminating the traditional 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. time slot the library was previously open on Saturdays. The adjustments preserve the 55-hour week required by the State of Tennessee to be classified a Level 4 public library.

“As a board we must work within our budget limitations that dictate our staffing and scheduling,” Myers said in a statement. “The change in hours is a necessary step to live within our budget and provide services in a safe manner.

“The Board of Trustees believes it is important to be honest with our community about the situation. Our board and staff work every day to find ways to increase our funding levels and manage our costs. We want the Magness to be a place where people can come for help, use our resources, attend programs, bring their children, meet with others and feel welcome in a safe environment. Having adequate supervisors and staff available is a critical part of making
that happen.

“The decision to change the hours was not made lightly, and we understand that this will have a significant impact on numerous patrons’ ability to access the Magness. We understand that closing on Saturdays will be an inconvenience and source of frustration for some of our patrons.

“We know that Saturday has been a convenient day for families and others who work during the week. We appreciate everyone's understanding as we make this change. The Magness will continue to offer programs and activities for children, teens and adults, along with the many services our patrons depend on. Our goal is to continue building a strong library that serves the needs of our community.

“As a Board, we sincerely hope that our funding sources will recognize the need and the desire within our community for The Magness to be open more hours. We ask that patrons let their county and city representatives know the service that The Magness provides. The bulk of our annual budget is derived from the Maintenance of Effort provided by Warren County and City of McMinnville.

“The budget is supplemented by charitable giving, funding raising events and
numerous grants. We hope that those who have the ability to provide financial support will see the value of investing in our library and in the people we serve. With additional funding, we would have the opportunity to increase our staffing and, in turn, provide more hours for our community.

“We also encourage those who would like to support The Magness to consider donating, volunteering, becoming a sponsor or simply continuing to use and support the library. Every bit of community support makes a difference.

“The Board of Trustees would like to thank our patrons, staff, volunteers, donors and community partners for everything they do for The Magness. We are grateful for the support our community has shown and look forward to continuing to serve McMinnville and Warren County.”

An opportunity to support the library is coming up with the inaugural Midnight at the Magness Masquerade Ball fundraiser set for Saturday, Oct. 24. Tickets for the formal event are $125. For more information, see the Main Street Journal’s previously published story at this link.