Library 10% Toward Fundraising Goal

Helen Matthes Library officials announced their fundraising campaign is now at 10% of goal.

Library Director Amanda McKay said a portion of that 10% is due to the donation of an elevator that will work in the former 5/3 Bank building that will serve as the library's new home.  Meanwhile, the elevator now in the future library cannot be removed and given to the Franciscan Friars in Teutopolis.  The friars were hopeful of using the elevator, but the elevator can't be removed intact.  McKay said it'll likely be sold for scrap.

McKay reviewed with library board members at Monday's meeting that a letter has been drafted between the Library and 5/3 Bank regarding a tunnel that used to serve the drive-thru at the old bank.  The tunnel has been sealed, and library officials are now waiting for spring rains to make sure the tunnel is completely waterproof before signing off on the letter.

McKay reported that work is moving ahead toward the Illinois Heartland Library System, which will involve Helen Matthes and 400 other downstate libraries.  Until then, local patrons are taking advantage of the existing resources on hand.  She also reported that 152 people signed up for the Winter Read Program, the most ever, and that 70 completed the program.

The Board approved electronic bill paying; agreed to dispose of unneeded items left in the future library building by 5/3 Bank when they relocated; and renewed a non-resident fee card program and will charge $125 for the year starting May 1.  McKay said between 150 and 200 non-residents have library cards.

Board members bid farewell to former evening operations manager Devin Black, who is now the library director at Tuscola, and welcomed new evening operations manager Ted Broeker.

The Board also met in closed session to discuss board vacancies.  The terms of Jane Wise and City Administrator Jim Arndt expire at the end of April.  Appointments to the Library Board are made by Mayor Merv Gillenwater.