March 22, 2025
The regular meeting of the Park Forest Public Library Board of Trustees opened at 3:30 pm.
Roll Call
Those present were:
Park Forest Public Library Board Members: Sevena Merchant, Felicia Rangel, Alice McBride, Katherine Coleman, and Jessica Rodrigues (arrived at 3:34 pm)
Absent: Lance L. Jefferson, Alan Shnay
Park Forest Public Library Staff: Mary VanSwol, Allison McCray, Tommie Taylor
Library Budget FY2025-2026
The board reviewed budget line items and discussed as needed.
The revenue estimate for the 2025-2026 budget is down. Revenue has gone down with taxes.
President Merchant asked about state grants the library receives. Director VanSwol explained the library receives a per capita grant and an equalization grant from the state. The State of Illinois has said the elimination of IMLS grants will not affect per capita grants.
The board reviewed property taxes and legal notices.
Director VanSwol advised that a 3% increase in salary projections is included in the budget draft.
The Director stated that the library currently has one unfilled library assistant position.
Brought forth by Trustee Rodrigues. The board exchanged thoughts on hiring a social worker.
Director VanSwol expressed that she would like to invest in more training expenses for in[1]services, conferences or other learning experiences for our staff.
Current legal fees were discussed.
Director VanSwol advised the 24/25 Estimate is a projection not a year-to-date.
The board discussed the line item for Computer/Software/Website. Several computers will need to be replaced next year.
Contractual Grounds Maintenance was discussed. Director VanSwol advised the village mows the lawn, clears snow, salts pavement and removes downed tree branches.
Office equipment/furniture was discussed. Director VanSwol offered that she would like to replace Ringering Room tables and the cost is already included in the budget.
The Board discussed Contractual Facility Development. Director VanSwol gave examples of needed improvements such as the emergency doors in Kids’ Zone, the recaulking/reglazing of windows, and new public bathroom faucets and toilet seats.
Based on last year’s numbers the account for adult books was increased.
The book giveaways account was discussed. The Board decided to leave the amount as is with the understanding that it does not all have to be spent.
The Board reviewed the line item for transfer to other funds and indirect cost to the general fund.
These are both funds managed by the Village. Indirect cost to the general fund went down.
Other Special Events (OSE) is for programming. The library strives to provide relevant programming to all ages. Senior programming has been a particular focus recently.
The Director explained that the IRMA deductible is rarely used, but we budget for it just in case it is needed.
The Board discussed the Vehicle Rental-Interfund, which is a fund managed by the Village.
Other equipment rentals was discussed by the Board. The Director advised this includes items like copy machines.
Director VanSwol explained that the library has a deficit budget not a balanced budget, but cushions are built into the budget.
At the request of Trustee Rodrigues the Director will look into free/low rate Microsoft with an education subscription.
Multiple trustees voiced their appreciation of the Budget Analysis this year.
Trustees discussed the contract with Olympia Fields. It will expire in 2027. In the past it was renewed every 3 years. Now the renewal occurs every 5 years.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 4:17 pm.