Don't Cut Flat-Funded Stratford Library Budget, Residents Say

Susan Pildner challenged Town Council members to name a town department that serves more people daily than the .

"The library serves an average of 850 people a day," Pildner said. "That's remarkable."

Speaking at a public hearing Tuesday at , Pildner urged the Town Council to approve for the Stratford Library.

Harkins has put forth a library budget for fiscal year 2013 that is three bucks less than the budget for the current fiscal year ending June 30, 2012. The total library allocation is $2,824,214, which comes to 1.48 percent of the mayor's entire proposed operating budget.

The library's operations are funded primarily from an appropriation from the town's general fund, notes the mayor in his proposal (see page 62 of budget attached as a PDF in photo gallery).

No increase, no problem, say residents, who had no qualms about a flat-funded bottom line.

"Please accept the library budget," said Elaine Roper, a mother of six whose children are actively engaged in library events and programs. "You name it and my children have probably participated in it."

Daniel Pato credited the Stratford Library with imbuing an enthusiasm for reading in his twin 5-year-old girls. He said since the girls were toddlers he has been taking them to their local library.

"We go there every week," Pato said. "Please support the mayor's budget."

The public hearing will continue today at 7 p.m. at .

Editor's note: Members of the Stratford Animal Rescue Society (STARS) also spoke at the public hearing Tuesday, asking for an increase in the Stratford Animal Control budget. Look for that story later this afternoon.