Paula Brehm-Heeger

The meeting addressed several key business items, including project updates for the Main Library, Cheviot, Mt. Healthy, Avondale, and Symmes Township branches. The Board approved renaming a branch to the Cleves Branch Library and established a new Health Insurance Internal Service Fund. Furthermore, the Board authorized budget revisions, the transfer of funds for capital projects, and accepted a donation of a fine art print. Informational reports were provided regarding the Facility Master Plan, 2026 insurance renewals, various library programs, and upcoming community initiatives, alongside human resources updates including policy reviews and staff recognitions.

The event celebrated the grand reopening of the Mount Washington branch library following a $2.5 million renovation project. The discussion highlighted that this investment is part of a long-term facilities master plan to upgrade all 41 library locations. Key upgrades included replacing mechanical and electrical systems, which were over 50 years old, and reshaping public spaces to create modern, flexible areas, including a new meeting room and a maker space. Funding for the project was supported in part by a countywide levy approved by Hamilton County voters. The event also featured remarks from various elected officials and recognition of project partners, including the construction manager, architect, and library staff.

The Facility Master Plan for the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library outlines a ten-year strategy (2019-2028) for upgrading its facilities. Driven by community needs and a voter-approved levy, the plan aims to address deferred maintenance, renovate, and expand all 41 library locations. Key strategic areas include identifying a vision for future services, evaluating existing facilities, assessing community needs, and designing a system strategy based on four library typologies: Main Library, Next Generation Libraries, Neighborhood Libraries, and Focused Libraries. The plan prioritizes equitable access, operational sustainability, and maximizing opportunities for next-generation service improvements, with a focus on digital literacy, workforce development, and fostering community engagement and inclusion.

The Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library's Facility Master Plan (FMP) is a multi-year, community-driven initiative launched in 2018 to upgrade and improve all 41 library locations. The plan focuses on enhancing spaces for comfort and accessibility, integrating modern amenities like maker spaces and dedicated meeting rooms, and addressing critical infrastructure needs such as HVAC, electrical systems, and roofing. Key improvements include expanded children's areas, increased parking, and sustainable features like solar panels and EV charging stations. The FMP aims to transform libraries into vibrant, accessible community hubs that cater to diverse needs and foster engagement.

The board meeting included an update on legislative efforts concerning the state budget and funding allocations, noting that Ohioans approved 100% of public library levies in the spring. The Director's report detailed the ongoing work related to state budget bills, specifically concerning library funding line items and potential reductions. Key facilities and finance items included ongoing work for the Sims Township branch renovation and addition, including approval of a change order for soil stabilization and design changes, and addressing a new easement request from Duke Energy for that project. Approvals were sought for executing documents related to leasing a temporary space for the Evendale branch and executing documents for the lease of the Mount Washington branch temporary space. Committee reports covered the Sims Township branch renovation progress and discussions regarding the future options for the former Madisonville branch facility, which is no longer needed for staff workspace. The board also received notification of the 2023 Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the GFOA. Actions included authorizing property deed alignment and consolidation, and seeking execution of depository agreements with several banks for the next five-year period. Finally, the board authorized the purchase of property at 609 West Northbend Road for $2.1 million, contingent on state funding maintenance and prosecutor approval.