Belgrade library plans staff additions and new 'library of things' as patron visits rise

Library Director Alina Prunean told the Belgrade Community Library Advisory Board on March 24 that the library is proposing to add two employees and is rolling out new services aimed at boosting access and programming.

Prunean said staff have acquired items for a "library of things" — including lawn games, podcast equipment and a karaoke machine — and have purchased makerspace equipment such as two Cricut machines, sewing machines and a 3D printer. Low-vision tools have arrived and Braille titles are being cataloged; staff are investigating installing a hearing loop to aid patrons with hearing aids. Prunean said LinkedIn Learning will be available to patrons via library cards beginning in April. Statistics on circulation and interlibrary loans will be provided at the next meeting.

The library has proposed adding two new positions in the upcoming budget cycle; two short-term positions (16 hours per week for ~20 weeks) have also been posted to support adult and youth services from April through August. Prunean said the staffing proposals are in the city budget process and will be subject to that approval.

Karrica Egbert, the library's new Library Specialist, said she will help launch the library of things and the library’s art display. "The library is beautiful too," Egbert said.

Votes at a glance: The board approved the Jan. 27, 2026 minutes (motion by Erin Howard; second by Lorraine Ekegren; passed unanimously) and later adjourned the meeting at about 7:00 p.m. (motion by Jason Guffey; second by Erin Howard; passed unanimously).

The board's next regular meeting is scheduled for May 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Belgrade Library & Community Center.