Sawyer County libraries report modest circulation drop, $25,000 in 2025 repairs and donor-funded projects

Scribe Library representatives told the Sawyer County meeting that overall circulation is modestly down year‑over‑year even as digital use through Libby and front‑door patron counts increased. The presenter said about $25,000 was spent on improvement projects in 2025, of which roughly $8,700 came from donations, and outlined deferred maintenance needs including hydraulic door repairs, a fire‑sprinkler inspection that showed leaks, and windowsill replacement.

“The system is nearing the lifespan of 20 to 25 years,” the Scribe Library representative said, listing projects that will be prioritized and noting some repair items will require outside funding. The presenter added that one donor had pledged $13,000 intended to cover the library’s bridge and pier work but that rising costs mean the pledge may need to be dedicated solely to that project.

Commissioners asked whether the library has a capital fund for repairs. The presenter said the library does have capital but is also pulling from that capital to help balance its 2026 operating budget and is pursuing grants and fundraising to cover projects. “Grants aren’t out there for repair,” the presenter said, noting many grants pay for materials but not staff labor.

Donna Nucky of the Winter Public Library summarized her library’s five‑year strategic plan and financial picture, saying Winter Library is using fundraising and conservative investments to prepare for capital needs. Nucky said the library has about 1,200 square feet of space, is working to reduce a roughly $27,000 block‑grant lien down toward $10,000 and is pursuing local partnerships and regular fundraising events.

Both presenters described active fundraising strategies — Friends groups, community events and donor lists — and said they will continue to seek limited state or private grants for targeted projects such as study‑room improvements.

What happens next: presenters said they will follow up with requested budget breakdowns and more precise cost estimates. The county asked for earlier and clearer funding requests so municipalities and potential donors can plan, and no formal funding action was taken at this meeting.