Help Support Harford County Public Library

Harford County Public Library (HCPL) is a vibrant hub of learning, growth, and connection at the heart of our community. Every day, we offer essential resources, dynamic educational programs, and welcoming spaces that empower individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

However, HCPL programs, resources, and services are not guaranteed. Your advocacy is crucial in sustaining HCPL’s ability to deliver top-quality resources and create transformative opportunities for individuals, families, and businesses.

Please take a moment to learn how you can help support the library and advocate for its funding in the upcoming budget.

County Council Budget Hearings

Each spring, the County Executive proposes a budget to fund county operations and capital programs for the upcoming fiscal year that begins on July 1. The County Executive’s recommended budget is based on revenue projections and must be approved by the Harford County Council. Typically, both the County Executive and County Council host budget hearings for citizens to provide input on the next county budget prior to voting on its approval.

More information about the County Executive's proposed budget can be found on the County's Budget Town Hall page.

County Council Public Hearings on the FY26 Budget are scheduled as follows:

The County Council will receive the County Executive’s FY26 Proposed Budget on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 and will begin hosting our work sessions on Wednesday, April 23rd. These work sessions provide an opportunity for every department and agency that receives county funding to present and discuss their budget with Councilmembers and their Citizen Budget Advisors.

Following these work sessions, Council will host two Public Hearings on May 7th and 15th where we invite members of the public to speak on their budget priorities.

Council work sessions will be open to the public for viewing and available through live audio streaming on the Council’s webpage. The public hearings will be open to the public and will be live video and audio streamed on the Harford County Council website.

Please share your input with the County Executive:

You can also share your support by emailing the County Council President and members directly. Let them know how much the library means to you and why funding is essential for its programs and services.

You can also send written letters to all Council Members at their official mailing address below:

Key Talking Points

Below are valuable resources to help you advocate for the Harford County Public Library. Whether you're sharing your personal story, drafting a letter to elected officials, or preparing for public hearings, these tools are designed to amplify your voice and demonstrate the library's vital role in our community.

Discover the Value of Your Library to Our Community

The Harford County Public Library is more than just books—it's a cornerstone of learning, connection, and opportunity. Each service, program, and resource empowers individuals and enriches our community as a whole.

In FY 2025 alone, HCPL provided over $109 million in value through its diverse offerings. From borrowing books and digital materials to attending programs and using vital resources, the library plays an indispensable role in shaping Harford County.

We want to hear your story! Share what the library means to you and how it has impacted your life. Leave a comment on Facebook, Twitter (X), or email us at foundation@hcplonline.org.

Together, let’s celebrate the immense value HCPL brings to our community!

FY 2025 Value of Selected Library Services*

*The values above are based on the estimated retail value of the materials or services

Discover Your Library Savings with Our Interactive Calculator

Ever wondered how much the library saves you or could save you? With our Library Use Value Calculator, you can see the financial impact of the services you use.

Simply enter the quantity for each category listed, and the calculator will automatically display the subtotal for each service and a grand total at the bottom. It's a fun and easy way to understand the value the Harford County Public Library provides!

Try it out and see how much you're saving with your library today!

Note: The values used above are based on the estimated retail value of the materials or services, with research from the Maine and Massachusetts State Libraries and HCPL staff.

A Community Resource for All

Harford County Public Library operates 11 branches throughout the County, offering access to ideas that inform, entertain, and inspire. Last year, the library engaged with residents more than 12 million times – borrowing materials, visiting branches and the website, using free WiFi, and attending classes and events. Here’s how HCPL made an impact in 2025: