Riverside County has agreed to expand funding for operation of the Idyllwild Library, Verne Lauritzen, Supervisor Chuck Washington’s chief of staff, told the Town Crier last week.

At the request of the Friends of the Idyllwild Library, Washington asked the county to review the library’s use and funding. The response was that it mandated a full 40-hour schedule.

The Friends have been donating up to $34,000 annually to ensure the new library is open 40 hours per week. Now the county will provide sufficient funding to make the library available to local bibliophiles and others who access the computers and children’s programs.

“The Friends of the Library are thrilled by Supv. Washington’s decision,” said Ed Hansen, president of the Friends, in an email. “We have been hoping for this for a long time, but we really did not expect the county to take over the entire amount.”

Barbara Howison, administrator for the Riverside County Library System, also confirmed, “The county will now cover the cost of all 40 hours,” replacing the Friends’ donations.

The Idyllwild Library hours
Monday:   10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday:   noon to 8 p.m.
Wednesday:  10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday:   noon to 5 p.m.
Friday:   noon to 5 p.m.
Saturday:   10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday:   Closed