The James V. Brown Library Board on Thursday approved a revised version of its 2012 budget, with about $800 in surplus.
The board said it was proud of the balanced budget and hope to see another year of grants, community support and successful fundraisers - such as the upcoming Friend's Book Sale and Author Gala - to help meet the library's financial goals.
Shirley Alters, chief financial officer, explained the revised version of the general fund includes a balanced budget, with no program cuts.
"When we started the year, were were looking at a bit of a deficit," Alters said.
Original financial reports predicted a deficit of more than $40,000, she said. By the second version, the financial department had managed to lower the deficit to $20,000.
"We thought we were going to get a 5-percent cut in state funding and aid but, thankfully, that didn't end up happening. We got level funding," Alters said.
The relatively warm winter also benefited the library budget. The original allotment for utility costs turned out to be higher than was necessary.
Several successful fundraisers and donations also helped keep the library's budget balanced, according to Alters.
"The community has always been very generous to the library, particularly with our summer reading program, which turned out to be a big success," she said.
The Friends of the Library will hold a fall book sale at Pine Street United Methodist Church, 441 Pine St., from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sept. 21 and 22. Friends members may preview the sale from 5 to 9 p.m. Sept. 20.
"We've got some very exciting items this year," said Tricia Shipman, president of the Friends board. "We've been very happy with the donation level."
On Sept. 27, the Author Gala will be held at the Williamsport Country Club. The featured author is Adriana Trigiani, author of the bestseller, "The Shoemaker's Wife." Those who wish to purchase tickets may do so on the library's website.
