NORWICH – Guernsey Memorial Library’s 2008-2009 budget was approved Monday at $1,042,621, less than a 1 percent increase over last year, according to 2007-2008 figures.

The library’s Board of Trustees unanimously accepted next year’s spending plan Monday at a special meeting in the Guernsey community room.

The library budget will be included as part of the Norwich City School District’s overall budget, up for vote May 20.

“I feel pretty good about it,” said Trustee Barb Collins.

There was also a $40,000 transfer from the capital reserve balance to offset the budget increase from a .9 percent to a .7 percent on the tax levy.

That’s a significant difference compared to last year, board members say, when the budget rose 2.2 percent.

“It gives people a lot for their money,” added Trustee Kathy Darrah.

Before making the final approval, board members adjusted several line items. One included increasing the projected natural gas costs for next year by 10 percent, reflecting what’s expected to be an ongoing rise.

“That seems to put us a little safer,” said Board Secretary Mark Pettit.

A new heating and air conditioning system, installed last year, should help the building be more efficient, the board agreed.