Summer Read Going Well at Library

Effingham Public Library board members Monday heard that Summer Read 2023 is a hit.

Library Director Amanda McKay told the Board that while their goal was 1,100 readers, more than 1,300 people have signed up so far. Those who have signed up have done 8,500 days of reading in the first three weeks of the program. McKay is encouraging readers to finish up and to turn in their results so that they can collect their prizes.

McKay also reported on a targeted marketing proposal from an entity known as Orange Boy. She said a campaign is being considered for late Summer or early Fall. The campaign could involve new patrons, but also those who have been patrons in hopes they will return.

The Board also approved opening an insured cash sweep and then using those funds to purchase CDs to generate additional revenue. The CDs will be purchased at Dieterich Bank, Washington Savings Bank and Midland States Bank. 

Board members also passed the annual building and maintenance levy, which will generate an estimated $70,000. Also approved was a proposal from Alpha Controls for humidity mitigation. McKay said the equipment will cost just under $60,000 and that the library will recoup the cost in energy savings in four years.