Sherry Kenney

Key discussions during the meeting included a reminder to trustees regarding the due dates for the 2026 Economic Interest Statements. The Director provided updates on grant applications, including a submitted state grant and an ongoing federal grant agreement. A construction update detailed the timeline and expected impact on staff workspaces and meeting rooms, noting that future Board of Trustees Meetings will require an alternative location starting in March. The Randall Oaks Manager presented changes at that branch, highlighting a more than 25% increase in adult program attendance following staff rearrangements. New business addressed the adoption of Ordinance 2026-01 concerning Non-Resident Library Cards.

The Board discussed the upcoming library construction project, including the potential for relocating future meetings to the Public Safety Center II, adjustments to building paneling specifications, staff workspace logistics, and communication strategies. A presentation was provided regarding trends in magazine production and the increased public demand for digital materials available through the library's subscription services. Additionally, the Board authorized funding for moving expenses related to the construction project.

The meeting packet outlines the upcoming Board of Trustees meeting. Key items include the President's and Executive Director's reports, a construction update, and a consent agenda including financial reports and the approval of previous minutes. New business items involve a policy update on bereavement leave, an executive session regarding the review of closed meeting minutes, and the review of reports on closed meeting minutes and the potential destruction of old audio recordings. The packet also provides detailed administrative and department reports covering library activities, construction preparations, financial data, and staffing updates.

This Strategic Plan aims to bridge diverse communities through discovery, envisioning a vibrant center of connection, growth, and endless learning. It is guided by core values including environment, customer service, community, intellectual freedom, and inclusion. The plan outlines district priorities such as inspiring curiosity, optimizing library spaces, offering impactful programs, building partnerships, fostering a positive organizational culture, expanding revenue streams, and ensuring transparent fiscal practices. Its strategic focus areas encompass Discovery (providing access to resources and promoting lifelong learning), Presence (improving physical library spaces and enhancing user access), Connection (expanding community awareness, strengthening partnerships, and maintaining financial transparency), and Talent (cultivating a positive work culture and supporting staff development).

The meeting agenda included the President's Report, Director's Report, and reports covering Per Capita Grant requirements, Illinois Libraries Present review, and department updates. The Consent Agenda covered approvals for financial documents including check/voucher registers for September 2021, monthly financial reports, revenue and expenditure summaries, balance sheets, and investment inventory for September 2021, as well as minutes from a prior Budget and Appropriation Hearing and Board of Trustees Meeting, both held on September 21, 2021. Unfinished Business involved discussion of the Covid-19 Policy Review. New Business included a resolution to determine the estimated funds needed for FY 2021-2022, the Illinois Libraries Present Agreement, purchase of replacement PCs, and a Facilities Projects Status Report and Timeline. An Executive Session was planned to discuss the review and potential destruction of audio recordings from prior closed sessions.