Recent Reduction in Hours at PJL 

On April 14th, 2025, the Philbrick-James Library Board of Trustees made the decision to support a staffing plan presented by the Library Director that temporarily reduces the library’s hours of operation on Fridays. Since 2021, PJL has been open to the public 41 hours a week. With the recent reduction of 4 hours on Friday, PJL is now open to the public 37 hours a week, including two evenings. This decision was made with the explicit intention to revisit the decision during our budget formation process for 2026. 

This intentional move, based on building usage and program data, is designed to: 

• concentrate and shift regular staff hours to maintain adequate staffing levels in the library

• reduce temporary, seasonal staff hours that support PJL’s summer reading program

• reduce building operating costs (heating/cooling/electricity)

This action was made to prevent overextending the default library operating budget for 2025. 

Library staff currently includes two full-time staff members, two part-time staff members, and two per-diem substitutes. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this decision, you are encouraged to contact Anne Meyers, Library Director, director@philbrickjameslibrary.org or Christina Eagen, Board of Trustees Chair, chair@philbrickjameslibrary.org. Members of the public are also welcome to attend monthly trustee meetings, to drop in at the library to speak with staff, or to call 603-463-7187. Feedback is welcome. 

Thank you, 

Anne Meyers