Wilton Library's Budget Books in Order

Sound bookkeeping, in both a budgetary and literary sense, has the Wilton Library in good financial stead this year.

Library Trustee Ann Duffy provided a financial report to the Board of Selectmen Monday night, saying that in the midst of limited funding, the organization is "doing great on a very tight budget."

Duffy said an increase in the library's vigilance in collecting and enforcing late fees helped revenue tick up on the operating side to the tune of about $14,000. That uptick, however, was largely offset by medical and pension costs and unexpected maintenance fees after the harsh winter, leaving the library with about a $5,000 operating deficit this year.

"That will be more than offset by a good performance on the other side of the financial picture," Duffy said.

On the restricted funds end, Duffy said a strong performance in revenue was partially negated by revenue generation expenses, but still netted the library about a $25,000 surplus.

"[The library's budget] is looking to be in good shape this year," she said.

Duffy also said library officials were hoping for a 2.77 percent increase to the town grant that helps fund the library's expenses. The request elicited some conversation between the selectmen as to whether or not they should fix that grant at 75 percent of the library's costs going forward, though ultimately the idea was tabled.