Kennedale library asks for full‑time librarians, RFID conversion and more community space
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Summary
The library director asked council for a supervising adult services librarian (full time), a full‑time youth services librarian (MLS preferred), an RFID conversion (quote $16,721; request up to $20,000) and long‑term space to host large programs and a combined community center with senior services and recreation.
The Kennedale Library Director presented a multi‑part request at the June 2 budget workshop to expand staff and modernize library operations as usage and programming grow.
Staffing requests include converting an existing 50% adult‑services programming position to full time (supervising adult services librarian) and creating a full‑time youth services librarian position; the director said she prefers candidates with MLS credentials for these roles. She also asked that a part‑time clerk be converted to full time in a later budget year and that communications/event coordination support be expanded to cover social media and graphic design.
The director asked the council to approve an RFID conversion to speed inventory and checkout. She cited a vendor quote from Envisionware for $16,721.64 and requested up to $20,000 in the FY26 budget to cover any volatility. “It’s an amazing, staff, time saving component,” the director said, noting the conversion would speed inventory and patron checkout.
On facilities, the director described a recurring problem: large programs (300+ attendees) now have limited indoor options because school gymnasiums are under construction and the library lacks a single large community space. She asked the council to consider a long‑term community resource center that could house the library, senior center, recreation and YMCA liaison services.
The director also noted the library will assume the cost of its requested camera system; the police chief confirmed the library camera line item is a library expenditure. The council asked for staffing cost ranges and options; the director said she based salary ranges on state auditor classifications and would provide detail in the packet.
No personnel authorizations or capital approvals were adopted at the workshop; the items were presented for FY26 budget consideration.
