Library Looking at Ways to Cut Building Costs Through Energy Savings

Helen Matthes Library Board members reviewed recommendations at this month's meeting on how to save money on the conversion of the former 5/3 Bank building into the new library home by cutting energy costs, and in the process help the library save money long-term.

Library Director Amanda McKay said the project engineers would recommend changes that would allow the energy savings.  McKay reported the fundraising for the library conversion project is at 30%.

Library board members voted to apply to maintain the downtown area as part of the City's new "Pick it Up, Effingham!" initiative.  The City Council will vote on whether to approve the application.  The Board also voted to increase the number of items a library patron can check out, and increased the number of items a patron can request to have delivered at the library.  The number was increased to 20 items.  McKay said the change would accommodate those with children who can read several books in a short period of time.

The Library Board approved a 1.5% increase in the Fiscal Year Tax Levy, since it's believed the City's Equalized Assessed Valuation will increase by that amount.  The Board also approved an agreement with FISH Human Services to use the future library home as the site for this year's FISH/Catholic Charities Christmas Store.

The Board also learned more about Family Read Night set for November 21 at the Effingham Performance Center.  The evening will include the premiere of "Mutasia", a work by local educator and filmmaker Joe Fatheree.