Davenport trustees approve updated makerspace policy, separate fee schedule

The Davenport Library Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to approve an updated makerspace policy and a separate fee schedule that the board said is intended primarily to recover operating costs.

The measures won unanimous approval after a brief discussion of changes made since the last meeting. Jeff Collins, library director, told trustees the policy packet now includes a link to copyright law and that the fees are meant to cover expenses rather than create new revenue. "We do try to do as much as we possibly can free of charge, obviously," Collins said.

The board discussed moving fees out of the policy text and into a standalone schedule so the library can update pricing without revising the policy itself. Trustees were told the fee list generally reflects the actual expense of consumable items and third-party charges; Collins used the example of a collection-agency referral fee that matches the amount charged by the agency.

Trustees approved the revised makerspace policy and separately approved the fee schedule by roll call. The board chair called for an annual review of fees and said the fee schedule will be brought back as needed.

The policy change clarifies user responsibilities, references federal copyright law for intellectual-property considerations, and formalizes a cost-recovery approach to consumables and special services. The board did not change the library’s stated preference to offer services free of charge when possible.

Officials said the policy and fee schedule will be monitored and adjusted if needed; no amendments were made at Tuesday’s meeting.