Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Library Funding topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ephraim library warned of possible loss of state IMLS funding; board reviews memorial-donation policy
Summary
Library staff told the board that state library offices are on administrative leave and advised the library to expect possible loss of Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funding for fiscal 2026–27; the board reviewed a proposed memorial-donation policy and planned formal consideration next month.
Ephraim Public Library staff told the board on April 15 that uncertainty at the state library has created a real risk to the library’s portion of Institute of Museum and Library Services funding for fiscal 2026–27, and the board reviewed a newly drafted memorial-donation policy that staff will bring back for formal approval.
The warning came after staff reported that the state library office placed employees on administrative leave, leaving no one in place to administer the federal-state IMLS funds. "Even though the money is statutorily required, there's nobody there to actually administer it," Michael Thompson said, noting the library should be prepared to operate its budget without that revenue. Staff said the most immediate programmatic impacts would be on statewide digital services and programs that the state supports.
The memorial-donation policy presented would accept patron gifts (staff suggested a $10–$20 recommended minimum) to buy books and other materials; donors could request a book plate in memory or celebration, and funds would be restricted to collection development with quarterly reporting to the board. "Donations can be anonymous," Thompson said while explaining the policy’s mechanics and reporting plan. The policy text will be emailed to board members and placed on next month’s agenda for a vote or final action.
Library staff said they have prepared a conservative operating budget that does not assume IMLS money; if the library receives funds later, that would be treated as a bonus. Thompson told the board he had submitted the proposed budget to the city and asked for a small increase to cover potential shortfalls, and that final city approval is expected in June.
Board members discussed using other grant sources if IMLS funds do not arrive, noting that some local private and health-sector grants remain available. No formal roll-call vote on the memorial-donation policy occurred during the meeting; a motion to approve the policy was made but the transcript does not record a complete vote tally.
The library will report back to the board in coming weeks with any updates from the state library, and the memorial-donation policy will appear on the next meeting agenda for formal consideration.
