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Missoula Public Library is weighing cuts that could close or shrink its Frenchtown branch
The library is trying to close a budget gap
- $400,000
- shortfall library leaders are trying to make up
- $200,000
- roughly, by which fiscal 2026 spending topped revenue
- Nov. 18
- when the board is expected to vote
If you use the Missoula Public Library, some hours may change. The board is weighing service cuts to make up a shortfall of around $400,000, and KECI reports the board is expected to vote Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. The meeting is open in person or online.
Frenchtown's branch is on the list. KPAX reports the options include closing public access or cutting hours from 20 a week to 10. Closing it would mean one layoff, the librarian the library staffs there. Frenchtown High School's library would stay put.
Frenchtown's weekly hours would be cut in half under one option
| Today | Measure | Proposed cut |
|---|---|---|
| 20 hrs | Frenchtown hours a week | 10 hrs |
| 9 a.m. | Main library opening time | 10 a.m. |
Source: KPAX News
- Close main library Sundays: could save about $128,000 a year
- Open an hour later daily: could save more than $100,000
- Close Frenchtown branch: saves nearly $50,000 right away
- End Monday 6-8 p.m. hours: saves $14,000, not immediately
Director Slaven Lee says that if the library had to close or reduce hours in Frenchtown, "we'll find other ways to serve Frenchtown residents," such as delivering requested holds by bookmobile.
