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Ida Public Library plans bookmobile shelter, warns of vendor closure and equipment needs
Summary
Library representative Mindy Long told the Belvidere City Council the library will build a grant-funded bookmobile shelter (estimated $90,000 with about $60,000 in grant funds), is planning long-term expansion, faces vendor closures affecting book supply, and will replace 17 computers using impact fees.
Mindy Long of the Ida Public Library updated the Belvidere City Council on Oct. 20 about near-term and longer-term library projects and operational issues.
Long said the bookmobile's new radiator developed a leak and is being repaired under warranty, and the library plans to construct a bookmobile shelter once site and building plans gain city approval. "It's 90,000 for that structure, and then we have over 60,000 in the grant money," Long said, and the library will use reserves to cover the remainder. Prestige Contractors will build the shelter.
Long said the library board is initiating planning for a future expansion funded in part by grants and an investment fund of memorial donations; the timeline is multiple years and dependent on grant cycles and the federal funding situation. She also warned that longtime book vendor Baker & Taylor is closing, which will complicate acquisitions and lead to longer holds for patrons.
Operational concerns include staffing shortages—several full-time staff on leave and two staff members departing for higher-paying positions—and the need to replace 17 computers that cannot run Windows 11. Long said the library board approved requesting impact fees from the city to purchase the computers and negotiated a discount through Lenovo.
Council members asked clarifying questions about the shelter's permanence and cost. Long said the shelter is designed to match neighborhood elements and can be moved if necessary; a concrete pad will be installed but could be repurposed if the shelter is later removed.
Long also listed upcoming library programs and schedule changes for Halloween events.
