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Library volunteers raise fundraising payment hurdles; staff ask about ICE activity and local guidance
Summary
Advisory members discussed challenges with cash‑only fundraiser payments and explored digital options such as Zelle; staff raised anxiety about nearby ICE activity and asked for guidance and community partner contacts to support staff safety.
At the National City advisory meeting members discussed practical hurdles to an upcoming benefit that relies on cash payments and raised safety and procurement concerns during Q&A with library staff.
The Chair reported that organizers heard there would be a front fee and a percentage charged for the fundraiser and that many potential participants were reticent to proceed. Members described repeated instances of attendees forgetting to bring cash, incurring ATM fees or lacking change, and urged staff to explore digital payment options. “I wonder if Zelle is a book,” the Chair said while asking whether the library’s accounts could accept electronic transfers; members agreed it was worth looking into.
During questions about staff safety, the Chair said staff had asked about apparent immigration enforcement activity near a park and whether the city/library remains a sanctuary jurisdiction; Presenter confirmed staff concern and offered to draft guidance and consult the ACL unit for further direction. The Chair suggested partnering with community organizations such as Union del Vallejo and a City College trainer to provide staff with navigation and de‑escalation training.
The Chair also urged the library to consider shifting procurement away from Amazon, citing concern about “Amazon's investment in ice” and the desire to prioritize local vendors despite higher cost. No procurement decision was made at the meeting; the comment was presented as a preference for future purchasing discussions.
Why it matters: the payment‑method barrier could affect fundraiser revenue and volunteer workload, while staff concern about enforcement activity points to a need for clear guidance, training and community partnerships. The advisory group agreed to follow up on both payment options and staff training resources.
Next steps: staff will look into electronic payment options and follow up with the suggested partners and legal/advocacy resources to clarify staff guidance.
