Missoula Public Library faces budget shortfall, considers service cuts

The Missoula Public Library is dealing with a budget shortfall, noting that expenditures exceeded revenue by roughly $200,000 in fiscal year 2026. Library leaders stated they are trying to compensate for a shortfall of around $400,000. The library board is evaluating service reductions, including closing the main library on Sundays, reducing the Frenchtown branch hours from 20 to 10, or closing the Frenchtown branch entirely.

The library is weighing various options to manage the deficit, which could significantly impact community access to resources. The library leaders stated they would look into ways to accommodate Frenchtown residents if the branch is impacted.