Annual Report to the Community
Annual Report to the Community
In 2025, the Red Jacket Community Library continued to be a welcoming hub for learning, connection, and community engagement. We offered 547 programs with over 2,400 attendees, providing opportunities for all ages to learn, create, and connect.
This year, the library also completed an important step in planning for the future by updating our mission, vision, and core values, along with developing a new long-range plan to guide our growth and priorities.
Our Summer Reading Program, Color Our World, was a highlight of the year, encouraging continued reading and participation throughout the summer. Outreach efforts also expanded, bringing library services into the community and strengthening local partnerships, including the addition of a new StoryWalk® at Budd Park.
Library use remained strong, with thousands of visits, materials circulated, and technology sessions supporting everyday needs. From books and digital resources to one-on-one assistance, the library continues to be a trusted resource for our community.
We are grateful for the ongoing support of our patrons, partners, and community members, and we look forward to continuing to grow and serve in the years ahead.
Prior Year Annual Reports and Form 990
Our annual reports are in PDF format. You’ll need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader. Electronic copies of Tax Form 990, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax, are found on the irs.gov website.
2024 Annual Report
The year 2024 marked significant growth for the Red Jacket Community Library. We welcomed new trustees and expanded our program offerings, allowing us to better serve the Manchester-Shortsville community. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to provide valuable services and programs to our patrons.
This past year was remarkable for RJCL, with notable increases in library usage across the board. Library card sign-ups rose by 19% compared to 2023, Overdrive circulation increased by 25%, total visitors to the library grew by 15%, and overall circulation surged by 24%.
During our Budget Vote and Trustee Election in June, Celeste Andrews was elected to a five-year term, serving from 2024 to 2029. Additionally, Carl Persson filled an open trustee position in October.
In 2025, we aspire to secure a permanent home for the library and reestablish our full collection. Our goals also include increasing attendance at programs and boosting both patronage and circulation. We look forward to continuing to serve our community and welcoming you to the library!
2023 Annual Report
In 2022, Red Jacket Community Library made the decision to move out of the shared use facility in the school due to increased costs and reduced benefits. The Library moved into a temporary location which has allowed the Library to be in compliance with the NYS Division of Library Development minimum standards in regards to our open hours, which previously were not being met due to the restricted hours of access at the school.
The new location gave the Library the opportunity to set our own hours, allowed for daytime access to the Library and offer more diverse programming. The Director and Library Board of Trustees continued to collaborate with many community organizations, pursued grant opportunities and supported fundraising through the Friends of the RJCL.
At our Budget Vote and Trustee Election in June, Heather Baxter and Nancy Johnsen were re-elected for a five year term to serve from 2023-2028. Voters approved our 2023-24 budget of $259,763 with the approval rate of 85%.