Library Board Adds Incentive to Heighten Interest in Selling Off Former Home

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Published on February 15 2019 3:32 pm
Last Updated on February 15 2019 5:54 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

The Effingham Public Library Board would sure like to sell the library's former home along Market Avenue. The proceeds would help retire the debt on the new home, but it would also be nice to get the issue off the books, so to speak.

The Library Board agreed at this month's meeting to pay a 2.5% commission to a real estate agent or broker who secures a purchaser of the property. Library Director Amanda McKay said they plan to host a Realtors Open House in the next couple of weeks to heighten interest and awareness.

The Board approved its budget for the coming fiscal year. McKay said there are no major changes in the document from the previous year. Also formalized was the "authority to spend" policy that allows McKay or other staff members to spend over the limit in an emergency situation without Board approval.

The Board had been working on guidelines on updated salary ranges, but that work will be revisited now that a new state minimum wage law has been enacted.

Board members reviewed the terms of library board members ending in April, the end of the City fiscal year. Those are now held by Jared Chesnut and Amanda Gravenhorst, who were appointed to fill vacancies. Both have indicated to McKay that they would like to continue on the Board. Another term yet to be filled is that held by departed City Administrator Jim Arndt. 

The Library Board also heard the result of the Annual Fund campaign that generated right at $50,000. $25,000 was raised from the public. That amount was matched by Midland States Bank. McKay said the revenue will be used for the library building, but will also help cover startup costs for the RISE after school program. 15 fifth and sixth graders and 15 seventh and eighth graders are made a part of the program, which meets for a couple of hours following the end of the school day.