Library plans two new study rooms; no changes to hours or staffing in FY2025–26 proposal

Berkley Public Library Director Matt updated the council on the library’s FY2025–26 requests and projects, including plans to convert part of the main reading area into two enclosed study rooms.

Matt said the proposed budget maintains current public hours and staffing levels; the library will defer non-essential capital items this year (a copier replacement and some upholstery) but has completed an upgrade to the buildingamera system and plans to replace cameras in a subsequent phase. The study-room project is intended to create two reservable quiet study rooms and produce clearer sight lines for staff monitoring; the rooms will be configured to seat multiple persons and include study furniture.

Matt said the library will coordinate cable runs and installations with city IT and DPW contractors to reduce costs. Councilmembers praised the libraryor programs and usage and asked how the library would expand hours if future funding permitted; staff said any expansion would require a funding increase or a dedicated revenue stream and could be considered in a future funding proposal.