City Expected to Look at Library Funding

The ongoing debate over how to pay for Ventura’s chronically underfunded libraries is expected to resurface at Monday’s City Council meeting.

Drastic cutbacks in library services are looming, and the council must decide whether to look for $220,000 to $400,000 just to retain present service levels at the city’s two largest branches.

The exact amount depends on what the county does, community services director Everett Millais said.

“We don’t expect any action Monday night on the commitment of city dollars, but . . . it’s their first chance to talk about it,” said Millais, who added that he expected a large turnout of library supporters.

The council will also discuss this week’s vote by the county Board of Supervisors backing a benefit assessment district on the November ballot to pay for library services.

The supervisors also endorsed the idea of forming a federation that would turn over operation of the libraries to individual cities where branches are situated.

The council also is expected to give final approval to a study seeking long-term financial solutions for the libraries, Millais said.

The council tentatively approved the so-called community library planning process in April.

The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 501 Poli St.