County Library hours are funded from a combination of city revenues and an apportionment of countywide property tax revenue. The countywide property tax apportionment provides a base service level of 35 hours per week. Cities have historically contracted for extra hours on an annual basis. Due to the global pandemic, several cities have experienced significant fiscal constraints that have required them to reduce their FY 2020/21 Library budgets. As a result, these cities have requested to reduce their extra Library hours. To alleviate some of the scheduling impact, more effectively serve the public, and provide better coverage, the Library is recommending the attached revision to its operating hours. Attachment A reflects the proposed operating hours, as well as the current hours, for all libraries in Contra Costa County. If approved these changes will be effective beginning January 1, 2021. This action represents a cost reduction action from the City of San Ramon, which is one of the few remaining libraries to offer more than the base 35 hours provided by the County when the cities cover the maintenance costs. As a result of this reduction, Dougherty Station Library hours will be reduced from 50 per week to 44 per week per the attached schedule.

Posted operating hours will not be reflective of each Libraries actual hours.