Library Working to Provide Services in Strange Times

Effingham Public Library Director Amanda McKay Monday shared with her board members what services the library is able to provide while the library is shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

McKay said a couple of staff members are available at the library and are taking phone calls on various items, but said it's uncertain when they'll be able to return to normal.

In a related item, the Board discussed a pandemic response policy. McKay said it's an interesting situation. The library has emergency policies regarding fires and floods, but those policies are with the end goal of restoring services as soon as possible. In the case of the pandemic, trying to re-open in the wake of the emergency could actually spread the problem.

Also Monday, board members set for nonresident participation and Fiscal Year '21 fee at $143, almost exactly the same as this past year.

The Board learned that an appraisal of the former library location on Market Avenue has been completed, and that the close on the transaction must occur on or before April 10.

McKay also shared that a Board member will be needed as of May 1, as Dannielle Harden is not seeking re-appointment. McKay would like to hear from anyone interested in the position prior to the Board's April meeting. The City's new Fiscal Year will begin on May 1.