The Annapolis Valley Regional Library board has voted to use more than half of its remaining reserve funds to keep five branches operating through the summer.

Earlier this year, the library system announced plans to close branches in Hantsport, Kentville, Lawrencetown, Middleton, and Port Williams because of funding shortfalls.

At a special meeting in Wolfville, board members approved a motion to extend service at those locations until Sept. 30, using reserve funds to cover the costs.

The decision provides a temporary reprieve for the branches, which had faced potential closure amid ongoing budget pressures, originally set for July 20.

Board members also voted to renew a request to the library’s municipal funding partners for the full amount of funding originally sought. The board hopes additional financial support will allow the five branches to remain open beyond the end of September.

The Annapolis Valley Regional Library serves communities across Kings, Annapolis, and Hants counties and has warned that reserve funds are limited, making a long-term funding solution necessary to maintain service levels.

Source: YourTricounties.ca