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Ephraim Library Reports on Grants, Makerspace Plans and Summer Programming
Summary
Library staff told the board that federal funding was temporarily restored for FY25 after litigation, that a health grant application was denied, and that staff plan teen skills nights and a makerspace if additional grant funding is secured.
Library staff updated the Ephraim Public Library Board on June 3 about grant activity, summer programming and plans for a small makerspace aimed at teens.
Staff said the American Library Association successfully challenged a federal funding cut, restoring federal library funding for fiscal year 2025, but cautioned that funding for fiscal year 2026 remains uncertain. The board heard that staff applied for a technology grant to add Microsoft licenses on patron computers and a book-wrapping machine; staff also applied to a regional health grant (e-cigarette/drug grant) but were not awarded that funding due to strong competition across the region.
Staff described a proposed makerspace that could include a button maker, screen-printing kit, soldering stations, a VR headset and a photo printer, and indicated they are seeking multiple grants (including a wrap tax arts grant) and donations to fund the equipment. Several components would be borrowed or shared with local partners if grants are not awarded.
Programming plans include a twice-monthly teen skills night beginning in July with rotation-style stations focused on physical fitness (spike ball), social/intellectual topics (world religions and library resources) and mental/emotional wellness. Staff also outlined summer reading events (themed 'Color Our World'), a teddy-bear picnic and a planned end-of-summer color festival at Canyon View Park. Staff reported roughly 50 sign-ups for summer reading so far and said about 50 people attended the related teddy-bear picnic.
Staff said they have four interns through Snow College (including two international students) helping with summer programming and noted Becca, a new employee, will be on medical leave in June; staff may hire a temporary employee. The board discussed whether members should participate in hiring committees per the bylaws and confirmed background checks will be required for adult volunteers and interns where applicable.
Staff said they will continue applying for grants, pursue local partnerships for equipment loans, and proceed with programming even without full grant support.
