Title
Consider an ordinance amending Chapter 20-1, Code of Ordinances (2018 Edition), regarding library cards and fees and amending "Appendix A: Fees, Rates and Charges" to Code of Ordinances (2018 Edition) by repealing library fees. (Second Reading)
Body
In 2015, Round Rock Public Library (RRPL) repealed library non-resident fees to simplify Library operations. As a result, any Texas resident - ages 6 and up - was eligible to get a library card free of charge.Since that time, RRPL has seen a steady increase in non-resident usage, especially after the opening of the new library building in 2023. With the increase in usage from non-residents, combined with the rising costs of resources, RRPL decided it was time to revisit our membership methodology.
It is important for our library to strike a balance between cost and accessibility, ensuring services remain affordable and inclusive for members of the community. Therefore, we propose a tiered approach to library membership.
It is important to note that in the proposed ordinance amendment, all Round Rock residents receive full membership and privileges at RRPL via the Tier 1 membership free of charge.
It is also important to note that rates will be adjusted regularly based on the cost of service by the Library Director to the City Manager. We have implemented this methodology for other Library fines and fees and it has simplified processes and worked well for all involved.
The proposed tiers are:
· Tier 1: Round Rock residents
- Individual(s) residing in the City of Round Rock corporate city limits
- Cost: $0
- Access: Full Access to all resources
- Membership length: Two years
· Tier 2: Non-residents
- Individual(s) not residing within City of Round Rock corporate city limits (including ETJ, out of city MUDs, etc.)
- Cost: $0
- Access: Limited access to resources and privileges
- Membership length: One year
· Tier 3: Non-resident paid membership
- Individual(s) not residing within City of Round Rock corpor...
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