Monticello library changes hours of operation

     After budget discussions between the Monticello Public Library Board of Directors and the Monticello City Council, the decision was made to scale back the library’s hours of operation, beginning Monday, April 30.

     The new hours will be:

     • Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

     • Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

     • Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

     • Closed Sunday

     In 2012, after a community-wide survey, the library board and library director at the time chose to extend the library’s hours to 8 p.m. during the week and 3 p.m. on Saturday. However, when reviewing usage of patrons during the 7-8 p.m. hour for the last several years, Turnis said data showed that the library averaged three new people coming through the door.

     “Myself and board decided this was not the best usage of city funds with that few people,” said Turnis.

     In the event the library is hosting an evening program that runs after 7 p.m., the library will remain open, but solely for the patrons of the program. No staff will be on hand at the desk to assist in the checkout of materials.