Library seeks funding for more books, computers and a facilities study

Library Director Marcine McCullough presented the library's budget needs and a capital plan to the commissioners, citing rising prices for books and vendor estimates for data services.

McCullough asked for small operating increases — including an additional $5,000 for books and $2,000 for public programs — and said vendor quotes drive a roughly $35,539 request for data services. On capital outlay she described two clusters of computer replacements: 11 catalog stations (installed in 2017) and several staff/student machines that IT has flagged as incompatible with recent server updates. "We have 11 catalog computers...and now with this last Windows update, they are offline most of the time," McCullough said. She asked commissioners to consider replacing machines on a staggered schedule or exploring lower‑cost devices (e.g., Chromebooks) if IT approves them.

McCullough also cited a facilities concern: wallpaper in a large meeting room that needs replacement and an estimated $52,000 for a library facilities plan study by a local library architect; she said the estimate came after negotiating items out of an original higher bid. The director proposed adding minor staffing hours to cover extended weekday service and requested $3,600 to add three water‑bottle fillers to public drinking fountains.

Commissioners asked whether some capital requests could be phased and whether existing 2022 machines could be repurposed to the literacy center to stretch funds. No action was taken; staff were directed to supply follow‑up detail on IT compatibility and phasing options in future budget materials.