For the first time since it became a taxing entity, the Dunkirk Public Library is looking for a bump. According to information provided by the library and its board, the organization is looking at a hike of 22 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

“These additional funds are necessary to address the mandatory yearly changes to the minimum wage, the rising costs of printed texts, eBooks, audiobooks, and DVDs, technology upgrades for patrons who depend on our hardware and digital network, plus supplies for programs that benefit community members of all ages,” said city library Director Jason Hammond.

There’s no denying the library is a bare-bones operation. Its current spending plan for the fiscal year is about $525,000. In 2015, city voters approved the library to become a city school district facility.

It was formerly the Dunkirk Free Library and received funding from the city municipal budget. That, however, was not cutting it. Even then, the budget was hovering around $200,000.

Dunkirk’s library plans for fees — by being tied to the school — are not much different than how other similar institutions are operating. Since funding is not coming through municipal governments, these facilities have become taxing entities. Not a great option for an already overtaxed region.

However, with the tight spending plan — and major improvements needed inside the historic facility — we are comfortable that there is no fat in these financials.

Voting on the budget proposition and election of library trustees will take place at the Dunkirk Public Library on Wednesday from noon to 9 p.m. It is open to residents of the Dunkirk school community.