The Central Library will remain open on Sundays this fall after the Boston Public Library Trustees reversed an earlier decision to eliminate Sunday hours as a cost-saving measure.

On Tuesday, the trustees voted to reinstate Sunday hours at the Copley Square library from October, 2011 through May, 2012. The change was enabled by updated budget numbers from the state that ensure level funding for the library in fiscal year 2012, which begins October 1. 

“This is excellent news for the Boston Public Library and the people who use and enjoy our services,” said Boston Public Library President Amy E. Ryan in a press release. "Real appreciation is due to the public, library staff, trustees, and state and city elected officials, including Mayor Menino, who showed such determination and support for the library.”

Beginning October 2, the Copley Library will be open from 1-5 p.m. every Sunday through May, 2012, with the exception of Sundays preceding Monday holidays (Christmas, New Year’s Day, MLK Day, President’s Day, Easter, Patriots’ Day and Memorial Day). 

In March, the Board of Trustees approved a plan to eliminate Sunday hours at the Central Library in response to anticipated reductions in state funding. At the time, Governor Deval Patrick’s recommended budget for the state of Massachusetts included $2.4 million in state support for the library, approximately $350,000 less than what was included in the final budget. The library will receive approximately $2.7 million from the state in fiscal year 2012, the same amount received in fiscal year 2011.