Budget - Peterborough Public Library

The Peterborough Public Library’s 2026 budget reflects a continued commitment to delivering high-quality programming, activities, and events that serve the diverse needs of the community. The Library is experiencing notable increases in technology-related expenses, particularly in software licensing and subscription fees. These rising costs are the result of legacy software contracts that expire December 31, 2026.

In addition to technology, the cost of materials from library book vendors and digital collections has increased. These changes are largely driven by publisher agreements and fluctuations in the U.S. dollar exchange rate. Since 2020, the Library has seen a significant rise in digital collection usage, underscoring the community’s growing reliance on accessible online resources.

A key budgetary development in 2026 is the inclusion of Interfunctional - PTS Data Processing Costs, which adds $191,000 to the overall budget. This supports critical data infrastructure and interdepartmental systems that enhance service delivery, reporting, and operational efficiency across the Library and City services.

In 2025, a new library branch at the Miskin Law Community Complex at Morrow Park was opened, expanding the physical footprint and increasing access to library services in a growing area of the city.
Several operational changes are underway as approved by the Board to address 2025 Council budgetary expectations to reduce costs. These include adjusting the main branch operating hours Monday to Friday to close at 7 p.m. instead of 8 p.m., adjusting the number of staff working at the Miskin Center Branch and reviewing all software contracts.

Collections Acquisition (Capital budget)

The library must continuously renew the contents of the collection as items become dated, worn, lost, or simply lose their appeal. Beyond acquiring all the desired formats, the Library must also meet the challenge of providing appropriate and accessible shelving for them.

As new formats are introduced, the Library has broadened its collection to include large print, e-books, downloadable audiobooks, CD-books, and MP3 formats to meet the needs of the Peterborough community. Large Print, DVDs, and audiobooks continue to be high-demand items in the collection.

The Library maintains a zero-growth practice for the physical collection. For every item purchased, an equivalent one is withdrawn. Collection growth and expansion are also managed through the purchase of electronic resources and the downloadable collection. Circulation statistics have shown an increase and demonstrate a growing use of our electronic collection, particularly e-audiobooks and streaming services. Increasing item costs, publisher restrictions, exchange rates, and licensing for digital formats make meeting demands challenging.