[Disclaimer: The following information is provided by the Gordon Memorial Library in Sealy, Texas, and has not been independently verified; the library is the sole source of this information.]

The Virgil and Josephine Gordon Memorial Library (GML) in Sealy, Texas, is a cornerstone of the local community, providing valuable resources and services to its residents. However, the library’s ability to maintain its accreditation and continue offering these services is heavily dependent on the financial support it receives from the City of Sealy and Austin County.

The Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation from the Texas Library Association (TLA) is a crucial aspect of the library’s operations. To maintain this status, GML must receive a minimum of $30,000 annually from local governments. This funding formula is based on the potential population served by the library.

Being an accredited library opens up a wealth of opportunities for GML. It allows the library to access many costly services for free, such as shared databases and the inter-library loan program. Additionally, it makes the library eligible for competitive grants and free technology from the state. For instance, by the end of this summer, the library will be receiving its internet service at a 90% discount. Thus, the $30,000 local government funding effectively translates into a return of over $100,000 in support services.

Current Funding Situation

As of 2023, GML has received $15,000 from Austin County and $5,000 from the City of Sealy, totaling $20,000. To continue providing its services, the library needs the local governments to continue their financial support.

While the library appreciates the city’s offer to underwrite its water bill, unfortunately, in-kind donations do not count towards the totals needed from local governments to ensure accreditation. The library has expressed willingness to resume paying its water bill if it means receiving the additional funding required.

Fiscal Year vs. Calendar Year

The city and county operate on a fiscal year, while state library accreditations work off a calendar year. This discrepancy can create confusion and challenges in budgeting. To reach the required $30,000, GML needs $15,000 per calendar year from the City of Sealy. For the 2022-2023 fiscal year, the city agreed to give the library $10,000, which, combined with the previous year’s budget, allowed the library to maintain its accreditation. However, to keep this status, a minimum of $10,000 is required by December 2023.

Discrepancies in Funding

GML has also noted some discrepancies in funding that need to be addressed. The 2022-2023 contract stated that the library would receive two checks of $5,000 each in October 2022 and April 2023. However, these checks were written in November 2022 and June 2023, respectively. Additionally, while the contract states that the city agrees to give the library $10,000, the published budget online shows an approved budget of $20,000 for the library. These discrepancies make it challenging for the library to accurately budget and plan its operations.

Community Support and Budget

The library board continues to seek funding from local charities and individuals, with no intention of asking for more than the necessary amount from the city or county. The 2023 budget for the library is $200,000, which includes payroll, book and magazine purchases, office and book repair supplies, special programs, landscaping and building maintenance, internet and phone utilities, insurance, accounting, and other miscellaneous items.

The library also receives large yearly donations from the Wiley, Selman, and Levine Foundations, Austin County, and the City of Sealy, totaling $105,000.

The Gordon Memorial Library is a vital part of the Sealy community, and with continued support from local governments, it can continue to serve the community’s needs. The library board expresses its gratitude to the council and looks forward to a continued partnership in supporting the community.  You can watch the library’s presentation to city council in the video below starting at the 27:05 mark of the video:

 

 

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