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Library reports rising visits and circulation; council discusses out-of-county cards
Summary
The Vermillion Public Library reported increases in visits, physical and electronic circulation and program attendance; councilors asked whether out-of-county families with Vermillion School District children could receive free cards, a policy decision for the library board.
The Vermillion Public Library presented its 2025 annual report to the city council, reporting increases across several use metrics and prompting a council discussion about nonresident library cards.
Dan presented the report and said library visits rose 5% in 2025 to over 68,000, physical circulation reached 73,581 checkouts (up 2%), and electronic checkouts approached 25,000 (up 15%). "In total, the usage of library resources, both in physical and electronic format, [was] 98,484," Dan said. He also reported 613 programs attended by 9,756 participants, a 28% increase over the prior year.
Councilor Hellwig asked whether the library could offer free library cards to a small number of out-of-county families whose children attend the Vermillion School District. Dan replied that the decision would rest with the library board and explained that nonresident household cards currently cost $50 per year; he noted most services are available without a card and that the board would need to weigh precedent and funding implications. "We can put it on an upcoming agenda for the library board," Dan said.
Councilors praised library staff and foundation volunteers for programming and services, and the council voted to accept the annual report.
