Collegedale considers joining Tennessee regional library system to expand services

Collegedale City commissioners discussed a plan to join Tennessee’s regional library system that, staff said, would give the city expanded access to digital collections, training and grant support without an immediate increase in the library budget.

At a workshop on Aug. 25, Meeting Chair opened the discussion by saying Commissioner House had led the outreach and that “the state has agreed to allow us to join the regional library system.” Commissioner House told the commission the package of services includes trustee workshops, marketing and technical support and, she said, help with collections and accessibility programs. "Becoming a member ... you do not have to pay for the Tennessee Reads and OverDrive and digital books," Commissioner House said, noting that memberships could produce “several thousand dollars of savings.”

Why it matters: Staff said membership also may restore a state materials allocation for libraries of Collegedale’s size — Commissioner House said the regional system indicated a typical materials grant for a library this size would be about $7,000 a year, potentially more depending on needs — and would provide hands‑on IT and courier support that could speed interlibrary loans.

Officials emphasized constraints and next steps. Staff cautioned the commission that joining requires a maintenance‑of‑effort commitment: the city must commit to a funding level and not reduce it year to year. The city’s current budget for the library, staff said, is “very healthy” and joining the regional system should not require increased spending; staff estimated the membership itself would not cost the city money and could yield modest savings if the city eventually brought services in‑house.

Commissioners pressed on personnel and contracts: several asked whether library employees currently working for the vendor LS&S would retain jobs or have the option to become city employees. Staff said the issue depends on how the city structures its arrangement, noting existing contracts include notice periods and potential noncompete clauses that staff will discuss with LS&S before making decisions.

Timing and process: staff reported the regional system suggested an application window that would allow Collegedale to begin training and access services in the fall, with operational transitions likely by early next year. Commissioners asked staff to follow up with LS&S and the regional system to clarify contract, staffing and budget details before a formal decision.

What’s next: Staff will continue conversations with LS&S and regional contacts and return to the commission with recommendations on contract implications, a timeline for formal application and clearer budget estimates.