Board approves raising nonresident library card fee to $35

The South Burlington Public Library Board voted to increase the annual nonresident library card fee from $25 to $35 and agreed to review the rate annually.

Library Director (S2) told the board that digital collections and subscription costs have grown and that the library currently serves roughly 14 nonresident cardholders; she said the $10 increase is intended to help cover material costs rather than act as a revenue‑generation measure. "We're by far the lowest," the director said when comparing regional fees.

Board members debated equity and optics, including whether a larger step to $50 the following year would be appropriate. Committee member S3 moved the motion to set the fee at $35 and S5 seconded; the Chair called for a voice vote and declared the motion passed. The board also directed staff to include an annual review of the rate and to communicate changes to the public.