Charles Howell

The board discussed and reviewed several administrative policies, including those regarding donations and public relations. There was also a discussion regarding the plan to install new laminate flooring in the elevator and the children's play area. The board deliberated on participating in the upcoming local Fleadh event and received correspondence regarding a property annexation by the Village of Tinley Park. Additionally, information regarding upcoming library programs was shared, and an executive session was conducted to discuss personnel matters.

The board discussed several operational and policy matters, including public input regarding funding for visual media and concerns from staff about the implementation of Sunday operating hours. The board completed a semiannual review and release of past executive session minutes and authorized the deletion of related digital recordings. Additionally, the board adopted an updated circulation policy, reviewed a draft of the upcoming fiscal year working budget, and approved a new policy regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence by library staff. Plans for the annual ATLAS Trustee Day were mentioned, and the board provided updates on a parking lot incident and upcoming library events.

The Board of Trustees reviewed several administrative policies regarding materials, selection, reconsideration, gifts, and requests. They conducted a preliminary review of the fiscal year 2027 pay scale draft. Additionally, the Board approved updates to the circulation policy, extending the borrowing period for video games and short DVDs from one week to three weeks. Other topics discussed included the success of the recent Fleadh, planning for future after-parade activities, and a potential security grant application for keyless entry installations.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Key new business items included the discussion and agreement on the new policy review schedule for 2026-2027. The Board also reviewed Administration Policies concerning Mission, By-Laws, Financial Procedures, and FOIA. Furthermore, the Board discussed and approved banning a minor patron until July 27, 2027, due to violent behavior on library property. Lastly, there was a discussion regarding the library's participation in the Oak Forest "Fleadh" parade scheduled for March 7, 2026. Correspondence included a thank you note from a board member.

The meeting included the appointment of an Acting Secretary following a motion and second. Key discussions involved the sidewalk along Central Avenue and Independence Street, and a presentation scheduled for an upcoming In Service Day. The board enacted the Truth in Taxation Ordinance No. 12-06 and authorized the associated posting and publication of the Notice of Public Hearing for the Levy Ordinance, noting the new levy would be 3.3% higher than the previous year. Additionally, the board discussed and approved the Audit Results, including authorization for electronic filing with Cook County. The board also approved changes to the Patron Behavior Policy and adopted Resolution No. 187 concerning these policy changes. In Old Business, preparations for the Community Awareness Fair were discussed. During the Open Forum, concerns were raised regarding the availability of public-use computers at the library and the upcoming changes to the Open Meeting Act taking effect in January 2013.