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Friends of the Library discuss using city hall annex; committee pauses action
Summary
The committee discussed a request from the Friends of the Library to use the first floor of the city hall annex for occasional staffing and book sales. Members expressed concern about mechanical issues and potential lease terms; staff was asked to develop possible terms and follow up—no motion was taken.
Members of the Brainerd City Personnel and Finance Committee discussed a request from the Friends of the Library to use the first floor of the city hall annex for occasional staff work and monthly public book sales.
Committee chair Gabe Johnson and Councilman Bevans (as referenced in the discussion) said the group has operated a book sale at the Westgate Mall for about a decade and prefers to stay there if possible. Committee members noted mechanical issues at the annex and emphasized that any use would likely require a lease approved by the full council. Staff was asked to work with the Friends of the Library to draft potential terms but the committee took no formal action.
Committee members also referenced the Friends’ occasional book sale revenue—about $5,000 to $6,000 for the two major sales per year, which is used to support library programming—and questioned whether the city should provide rent-free space. The group will continue exploring options and report back to the committee if they pursue annex space.
Why it matters: The discussion concerns use of city-owned space and potential in-kind support for a longstanding volunteer nonprofit that contributes fundraising revenue to the library. The committee did not vote or direct staff to finalize a lease; rather, staff will return with terms if the Friends express further interest.
What’s next: If the Friends of the Library pursue annex space, staff will prepare lease terms for council consideration.
