New budget details and community reaction emerge in Hennepin County’s plan to shorten library hours

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    New budget details and community reaction emerge in Hennepin County’s plan to shorten library hours 

Hennepin County is sharing new details about its proposal to shorten public library hours next year — and patrons who rely on those spaces said the changes could have a real impact.

RELATED: Hennepin County libraries weighing shorter hours due to rising costs

The plan would reduce systemwide hours by about 7%, or roughly 140 hours per week, beginning January 2027. Most branches would shift to consistent eight‑hour service days, and some would gain Sunday hours. No locations would close.

County officials said the proposal is driven by rising operational costs and a tight 2027 budget target. Departments were instructed to submit budgets at 102% of current spending, forcing agencies to find efficiencies while maintaining essential services.

To meet that target, the library estimates it must find about $5 million in savings — including holding vacancies open, slowing hiring, and reducing spending on collections, technology, and other operating costs.

Nearly 90% of the library’s $73 million budget is funded through property taxes, according to county data. Federal dollars make up just 0.3%, primarily through an FCC program that helps offset the cost of public internet access.

Patrons react to potential changes

Families who use the library regularly said the proposed schedule shift may be manageable.

“We would definitely adjust,” said Gisele Lempola.

She said her children visit a Hennepin County Library about twice a month.

“It’s really kid-centered, so the kids can play and explore while they’re looking at different books,” she said. “We max out our card every single time we come.”

Another patron said every hour matters, especially for those who rely on the library for internet access, job searches, and basic stability.

“We the people need the library,” said Jamie Bibbs. “I think that’s the reason the library is here it’s supposed to be a place of shared community of fellowship where we can come and use the resources of the library.”

She said the library has become a critical refuge during a period of housing instability.

“I come here for shelter as well because due to some financial hardships right now, I don’t have a place to stay. So it helps it really does. It helps a lot.”

Library use remains high

Despite the proposed reductions, the county said library use continues to climb. The system now serves more than 606,000 active cardholders, with staff reporting an average of 13,800 daily visitors across 39 open branches. Last year, residents borrowed 12.8 million items, visited libraries nearly 5 million times, and attended 158,000 programs.

What happens next?

The Board of Commissioners will review the library’s budget request during the county’s annual budget process. The first public meeting is scheduled for Sept. 22, with final adoption expected later this year.

Residents can review tentative 2027 hours and submit feedback to their commissioner through the county’s website.
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