Library wins federal grant for new computers; staff previews Hoopla digital checkout plan

At the Perry Carnegie Library board meeting, library staff reported receipt of a $5,684 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to buy new public computers tied to a Microsoft program. The presenter said the award appeared on grant paperwork and noted the standard IMLS disclaimer about opinions in presentations.

Programs and collections: staff described a new adult fiction section designed for readers aged roughly 18–30, installed mobile shelving purchased with state aid, ongoing book sales (six books for $1 in August, audiobooks $1, movies 2 for $1), free books in the entry and kids’ books downstairs. Staff also reported a $1,000 local donation to support programs and materials.

Digital services: staff said the library plans to sign a contract with Hoopla, a digital-content vendor that offers instant checkouts with no waiting lists. Hoopla usage will require cards with under $5 in fines; staff expect to limit checkouts (likely four to five per month per card) because the library pays per-item checkout.

Operational notes: staff reminded patrons of a reading-log return deadline (Monday, May 21) and said circulation and summer reading statistics will be reported later. The board approved a revised selections-and-collections policy after a motion and roll‑call vote.

Next steps: staff will finalize the Hoopla contract, add computers with grant funds, continue programming and report circulation statistics to the board.