Library Board Waits on Council Decision

Helen Matthes Library board members are waiting hopefully for a positive decision by the Effingham City Council on their request for additional funding.

The Library Board is hoping to begin renovation of the former Fifth/Third Bank building downtown into the new library home. At the last City Council meeting, Library Director Amanda McKay asked for a $500,000 contribution from the City and up to another $500,000 in matching funds against contributions from the public. McKay said a decision by the Council isn't expected until August, but library board members unable to attend the Council meeting were briefed on the presentation and the Council's response.

Meanwhile, work continues in advance of the release of bid documents on the renovation project, set to occur on or before September 15.

The Library Board also approved changes to the job description for their position on the Board, eliminating a specified amount of financial contributions expected from each board member, although Board members are still expected to contribute toward the cost of the library's operation.

It was also decided to ask a library patron to give a report to the Board each month on what they think of the library and how they utilize it, and approved changes to the library's Internet and wireless policy, involving language changes and inclusion of social media guidelines. McKay said there are no changes as far as library patrons are concerned.