Meeting Briefs: Library Board of Trustees for June 24, 2025
The Library Board of Trustees unanimously approved its annual working budget after amending the family programs line to $25,000. The board is also moving forward with long-term financial planning, having received three proposals from firms to act as its financial advisor. Trustees will review the proposals ahead of a discussion in July and a meeting with bond counsel in August.
Facing persistent equipment issues, the library is actively exploring new vendors for both its IT support and its public print and copier management system. Citing a “repeatedly malfunctioning” credit card reader on the current copiers, officials are evaluating providers, including ISBS, which already holds the library’s copier contract, to supply more reliable technology services for patrons.
First Personnel Report Presented
Following a decision made last month, the board reviewed its first-ever personnel report, which details employee hire and separation dates. Trustee Erin Minh praised the report’s easy-to-read format, while another trustee requested that staff names be included in future versions. Executive Director Cathy Palmer explained that staffing levels have been gradually increasing since a wave of retirements following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Friends of the Library Book Sale Nets Over $2,600
The Friends of the Library’s book sale on May 30-31 was a financial success, generating a net profit of $2,661.60. The event’s income included $1,261.75 from book sales, a basket raffle, new memberships, and over $960 in donations. Secretary Marilyn O’Rourke relayed praise from the Friends group for the “outstanding” library staff who assisted with the sale.
Summer Reading Kickoff Includes New Sensory-Friendly Hour
The library’s Summer Reading Program launched with a well-attended kickoff party on June 14 that featured a new sensory-friendly hour from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. The accommodation was “well received and appreciated by many families,” according to library staff. Trustees Trustee Sara Carmody and Vice President Kathy Lewandowski both praised the creativity and success of the event.
Job Description Updated
The board approved an updated job description for the Assistant Head of Library Services II position. The update reflects a change in title and duties for what was previously the Assistant Head of Customer Service role.
2025-2026 Meeting Dates Approved
Trustees approved the schedule of regular board meetings for the new fiscal year. The only modification from the typical schedule is the December 2025 meeting, which was moved to avoid a holiday conflict. The next board meeting is scheduled for July 22, 2025.
Latest News Stories
Pritzker open to spending on Bears infrastructure, concerns remain about debt
IL legislators weigh energy policy some say will increase costs
Analyst points to inefficiencies as Pritzker touts record spending on infrastructure
Illinois quick hits: DHS announces more than 800 illegals arrested; utility prices drop slightly
WATCH: Officials shift shutdown blame; agreed-bill process upended; GOP offers solutions
States sue feds over denying grants for illegal immigrants
Pritzker blames Trump for partial government shutdown
Illinois quick hits: Record infrastructure spending planned; watchdog urges ratepayers review Ameren bills
GOP rep, Dem alderman: Sanctuary policies drove immigration enforcement surge
WATCH: Labor leaving agreed-bill process has consequences, Illinois legislator warns
County Board Abates Over $25 Million in Property Taxes for Bond Payments
Frankfort Highway Department Plans Levy Increase to Replace Aging Trucks
Will County Reverses Zoning on Peotone Farmland to Facilitate 10-Acre Sale
Frankfort Township Board Grants Supervisor Authority to Negotiate Real Property Development