One-year satellite report: West Fargo Library says site drew about 5,000 visits; director outlines budget timeline

Kayla, the library's circulation manager, told the West Fargo Library Board on March 12 that the system's satellite location—opened one year earlier—recorded "a little over 5,000" visits in its first year and is open 26 hours per week to serve residents south of I-94.

"We sought when creating the satellite location to create a kind of like express version of our main location," Kayla said, describing services that include public computers, printing, study rooms and smaller collections. She said the satellite used two staff per shift to meet patron demand and that most users were existing patrons rather than new-card signups; the satellite generated 10 new library cards this year.

Kayla summarized programming and patron feedback: the site hosts passive programs, Monday movies and occasional family events, and patrons praised the convenience and browsing options. Areas for improvement include finding the location within a multi-office building and adding features such as self-checkout and a print-release station.

In a related director's report, Jenna reviewed finances and the municipal budget calendar. Expenditures through February were about 12% of the annual budget, she said, and she plans to bring a preliminary library budget draft to the board in April with approval requested in May so the library's numbers can be included in the city's June submission. Jenna stressed that preliminary budgets can only be reduced later, not increased, and that the library typically finalizes its budget after the city sets levy amounts.

Jenna also provided staffing updates: final interviews were underway for a part-time circulation assistant; an adult services manager and librarian were scheduled to start in the coming weeks; and the board-approved reclassification will be filled from the recent applicant pool while the youth-services librarian vacancy will be posted for summer coverage. She noted some services, such as notary public appointments and technology tutoring, were scaled back amid turnover but are expected to expand after hires start.

Board members welcomed the satellite's convenience for nearby residents and asked questions about sustainability and whether attendance gains would persist; managers noted summer months and school tours typically increase visits.