Sumter County will lose more than $400,000 in state public library aid over the next several years, but county officials say it’s not such a bad thing.
The aid will be lost because the county no longer qualifies for an equalization grant that helps poorer counties maintain their libraries. Sumter County uses the money to buy books and other library materials.
The grant will phase out over a three-year period and the county must find $423,046 annually by then to replace the lost revenue. A state operating grant of $83,953 will be retained.
Sumter County’s economic growth means it is ineligible for the grant, officials said. The county no longer is one of Florida’s lowest 34 counties in adjusted property values.
Sumter County Commission Chairman Don Hahnfeldt pledged that the county will find money to replace the grant. He said the county can be proud of its public libraries when other counties are struggling just to keep the doors open.
“This is something that was anticipated,” said County Administrator Bradley Arnold. “We’ll be able to make strides to shore up the difference. We want to be able to continue to provide outstanding library services.”
Library visits have declined in recent years due partly to the growth of online services and eBooks, which now account for about 18 percent of all checkouts.
LSSI, a private company based in Germantown, Md., began operating the Sumter County public libraries in September 2013 under contract with the county.
Arnold said the company recently acquired a new equity partner, which will enhance its financial capability.
