2024
Board Minutes
January 16, 2024
President David Reed called the January meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of
Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Gloria Gubbels, Darcy Mollo, David
Reed, Ellen Vogel, and Gary Wheeler.
Board members Spencer Lawrence and Gail Russell were absent. Library Director Cynthia
Maxwell was also absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the December board meeting.
Motion by Darcy Mollo to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Gloria Gubbels.
Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending December 31, 2023 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Gary Wheeler to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Sandy
Austin. Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
President Reed read a note from Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Ricca wishing the library well at their
fund raiser on January 20, 2024 and included a donation to the event.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Maxwell is working on the Illinois Public Library Annual Report.
The library has received donations of video games which have been added to the library
collection. Additional games are being purchased to expand the library’s collection. The games
are available for programs presented at the library. The games are also available for check out
by library patrons.
Seeds have been ordered for The Seed Library. Master Gardener Julia Barickman will
prep the seeds for the collection.
Nichole Close is now Head of the Patrons’ Services Department and Tiffany Webster is
now Head of the Outreach Services Department. Melissa Badger has completed her LTA
(Library Technical Assistant) Certification and has been promoted to Administrative Assistant.
Staff member Hannah Rathbun has completed her barcoding training.
The staff is now working on the 2024 Sexual Harassment Training.
There was no staff meeting in December. Director Maxwell did staff reviews during the
month of December.
Administrative Assistant Melissa Badger explained the reference numbers at the bottom
of Director Maxwell’s report.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building and Grounds/ Concerns about the minimum amount of snow removal done on
the sidewalks and the area outside the back door of the library were discussed. Gary Wheeler is
going to check on the cost of having a company do the snow removal at the library. President
Reed will check to see if the City of Streator Public Works could do snow removal at the library.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to replace the current lighting below the dome with more appropriate
lighting fixtures before any restoration is begun on the ledge below said lighting. Seconded by
Gloria Gubbels. Motion passed by voice vote.
Finance/ No report
Policy/ The committee presented the updated Internet and Computer Policy. Motion by
Gary Wheeler to accept the updated policy. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice
vote.
Fund Raising/ The Gala for the sponsors of the Mini Golf Event will be held on Friday
night January 19 from 7-9p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion by Gary Wheeler to move to Executive Session to review staff compensation
granted at the December board meeting. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice
vote.
The board entered Executive Session at 5:29 p.m.
The board returned to regular session at 5:55 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The beam needed to repair the inside front stairs is here. Vissering Construction will be
responsible for the complete project repairs.
NEW BUSINESS
The Fund Raising Committee will be setting up for the mini golf event on Thursday
afternoon. Sponsors will be able to decorate at that time.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to adjust Melissa Badger’s compensation for 2024 to $17.25 per
hour. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
February 20, 2024
President David Reed called the February meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of
Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Ellen Vogel
and Gary Wheeler and Library Director Cynthia Maxwell.
Board members Spencer Lawrence and Gail Russell were absent.
President Reed administered the Oath of Office to incoming board member Jack Schuler.
SECRETARY'S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the January board meeting. Motion
by EllenVogel to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Gary Wheeler. Motion passed
by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending January 31, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Darcy Mollo to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Sandy
Austin. Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
President Reed read a note from the family of Clinton C. Quaka thanking the library for
their work. Included with the note was a donation to the library.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Friends of the Library will be doing their May Basket fund raiser again this year.
The Illinois Public Library Annual Report will be completed by next week and will be
submitted before the February 29th deadline.
Quintech has replaced our firewall, set up additional security, and synced all the library's
computers to the new software.
The library is working with the Partner Abuse Intervention Program (PAIP) to develop
educational programs at the library.
Volunteer Julia Barickman has prepped the seeds for the Seed Library.
Melissa Badger is training in all elements outlined in the Succession Plan.
The majority of the library staff has completed their Sexual Harassment Training.
The monthly staff meeting was replaced by reviews of staff 2024 goals.
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
President Reed reminded board members to sign the card for retired board member
Gloria Gubbels thanking her for her years of service.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Committee is waiting hear from snow removal companies on cost
for services. Proud Electric is ready to start work on replacing light panel as soon as he hears
from Director Maxwell. Director Maxwell has not had time to check about lighting at the base
of the dome. Committee will look into removing the awnings on the south side of the building
and replacing ceiling fans throughout the library.
Finance/ Committee is continuing to work on reporting the earnings of the designated
funds.
Policy Committee/ Committee presented revised Borrower's Policies.
Fund Raising/ The Mini Golf Fund Raiser was a success. The final total amount raised
should be available for the March board meeting.
UNFIN ISHED BUSINESS
The beam supporting the front stairs has been installed by Vissering Construction. At
that time, the footings for the beam were upgraded. Mr. Oliver will be closing the treads that
were opened at the start of this project.
Russ Lanning is scheduled to refinish the stairs on March 12ththrough the 15th.
NEW BUSINESS
Approval of the Borrower's Policies was tabled. The Illinois State Library will be
contacted about clarification on two items in the suggested revision.
At this time, Director Maxwell handed in her resignation effective March 18·2024.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
March 19, 2024
President David Reed called the March meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board member Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, Gail Russell,
David Reed, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel and Gary Wheeler and Interim Director Melissa Badger. Board member Spencer Lawrence was absent.
SECRETARY'S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the February meeting. Motion by Gary Wheeler to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending February 29, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was presented. Motion by Darcey Mollo to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Jack Schuler. Motion passed by voice vote.
The board agreed that money raised at the Mini Golf Fund Raiser can be used at the board's discretion for special projects.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
No correspondence was presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S REPORT
The Illinois Public Library Annual Report has been filed.
Mr. Oliver has repaired the steps and reinstalled the balusters on the front stairs. The Seed Library has been set up.
Melissa Badger will now be the Interim Director of the library in keeping with the Succession Plan approved in 2023.
Library Staff Members have submitted their six month goal plans. There plans will be reviewed at future staff meetings.
The Streator Police Department has been notified of the vandalism committed in the Plum Room and the Soderstrom Room by four teens. Clean up has been completed by the library staff.
Interim Director's Report
Over 180 Cards for Kids library cards have been issued in the past month.
Information on Disabled Veteran Cards has been publicized at the VFW and the Masons. Otis has repaired the elevator.
Five new lockable bulletin boards have been installed at the back and front entrances. The refurbishing of the front staircase has been completed.
The unemployment claim filed by Aaron Yuknis has been denied.
Former employee Nicolas Moreno has been hired as a substitute to cover unforeseen scheduling gaps.
IVCC student Addison Ramon is volunteering in the Children's Department in March.
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
There was no report presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ The committee will be developing a punch list of things that need to be address outside the building. Proud Electric may be a source for cleaning the exterior of the library's windows. The Streator Garden Club could be a resource for care of outside plants.
Finance/Director Badger will meet with the Fund Raising Committee about possible library projects.
Policy/ The committee is reviewing some items in the Borrower's Policies
Fund Raising/ The committee will be meeting with the director on possible projects.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion by Ellen Vogel to move to executive session to discuss personnel. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote. The board moved to Executive Session at 5:03 p.m.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to return to regular session. Seconded by Gail Russell. Motion passed by voice vote. The board returned to regular session at 5:25 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Front staircase work is completed. Some gaps have been noted and will be investigated.
NEW BUSINESS
The board welcomed Melissa Badger as Interim Library Director.
The Director Search Committee presented to the board the notice to be posted in the library's search for a new library director.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
April 16, 2024
President David Reed called the April meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees
to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence, Darcy Mollo, David
Reed, Jack Schuler, and Ellen Vogel and Interim Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Gail Russell and Gary Wheeler were absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the March meeting. Motion by
Ellen Vogel to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed
by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORT
The financial report ending March 31, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Darcy Mollo to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Ellen Vogel.
Motion passed by voice vote.
Financial Officer Spencer Lawrence informed the board that $5,446.60 associated with
the fund raiser will be moved from the general fund to a designated fund.
No bills were presented for payment.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Proud Electric has installed the second electrical panel. They will be able to take down
the awnings on the south side of the library and wash the library windows. Interim Director
Badger has yet to receive a cost estimate for these services. Mr. Proud will also review what is
needed to replace the lights above the charge desk.
The hole in the grand staircase landing has been repaired.
Interim Director Badger attended the Chamber of Commerce’s monthly “Caffeinate and
Connect meeting on April 12th
.
Ms. Badger will be attending the PrairieCat Delegates Meeting on April 24th
.
The insurance policy carried by the library has a deductible of $1000. Therefore, the cost
of cleaning following the vandalism would not be covered.
Ms. Badger has completed the state training for FOIA and has obtained Illinois
certification.
This month’s staff meeting discussed extending the programing sessions to 8 weeks with
4 weeks off for planning each quarter and maintaining regular programs year round.
After being down for nearly two months, Newspapers.com is now up and running.
Ms. Badger met with the library maintenance person to discuss duties and extended hours
necessary to complete a weekly “to do” list.
Friends of the Library discussed funding raising for the summer reading program prizes.
Also discussed was the need for volunteers for a variety of events.
Interim Director Badger provided the board with a count of attendees at the programs
offered by the library.
Ms. Badger suggested that the library have a staff member become certified as a notary
public. A $200 fee for 4 years certification is required.
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to have a staff member complete the necessary
requirements to become a certified Notary Public. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by
voice vote.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building and Grounds/ No report
Finance/ No report
Policy/ The committee plans to have a finished Brower’s Policy for approval at the May
meeting.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to move to Executive Session to discuss personnel.
Seconded by Jack Schuler. Motion passed by voice vote.
The board moved to Executive Session at 5:18 p.m.
Motion by Darcey Mollo to return to regular session. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence.
Motion passed by voice vote.
The board returned to regular session at 5:54 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The grand staircase landing issue has been repaired at a cost of $175.
NEW BUSINESS
The heating element for the kitchenette sink located in the meeting room in not working
The cost to replace the element would be $300. It was decided since hot water is seldom needed
in the area not to replace the element.
Sanitary issues have developed in the men’s restroom. In trying to identify who is
responsible for the problem, those wishing to use the restroom must have a staff member unlock
the facility.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
May 21, 2024
President David Reed called the May meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees to
order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Jack
Schuler, Ellen Vogel, and Gary Wheeler and Interim Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Spencer Lawrence and Gail Russel were absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the April meeting. Motion by Gary
Wheeler to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice
vote.
Secretary Farero presented the minutes of the special board meeting held on May 14,
2024. Motion by Darcy Mollo to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Sandy Austin.
Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending April 30, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Gary Wheeler.
Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Interim Director Badger attended the May3, 2024 meeting of Caffeinate and Connect.
Five local businesses expressed interest in coordinating with the library to present educational
programs.
The Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a fundraiser on September 7
th that will benefit
the library as well as the Chamber.
Interim Director Badger attended the PrairieCat Delegates Assembly on April 24, 2024.
Three staff members attended the Illinois Library Association Reaching Forward and
C2E2 Professional Development programs.
Friends of the Library has donated $1200 for Summer Reading prizes.
Interim Director Badger met with the auditor on April 19th
. Financial Officer Spencer Lawrence and Mrs. Badger transferred the funds from the Mini
Golf Fund Raiser from the general fund to the designated funds account on April 19th
. The Debit Card Ledger is available for board member review.
Plans have been completed for the Summer Reading Program.
Tiffany Webster conducted four 3
rd grade library tours totaling 120 children and 15
adults.
Interim Director Badger is now a certified Notary Public.
Completed FOIA/Emergency Plan/Policy binders are available at the front desk and in
the director’s office.
The library’s website is now FOIA and ADA compliant.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed will be giving a presentation on the Poundstone Flag on July 12, 2024 at
5:30 p.m.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ The committee has done a walk around the outside of the building
to assess and prioritize projects to be completed.
Finance/ No report presented.
Policy/ The committee presented a revised Borrower’s Policy.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to move to executive session to discuss personnel. Seconded by Gary
Wheeler. Motion passed by voice vote.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
The board entered executive session at 5:00 p.m.
The board returned to regular session at 5:39 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Motion by Gary Wheeler to offer Melissa Badger the position of Library Director of the
Streator Public Library. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by unanimous vote.
Motion by Sandy Austin to offer Director Badger an annual salary of $48,000 plus a
benefit package which includes health insurance and retirement benefits. Seconded by Gary
Wheeler. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to approve the Borrower’s Policy recommended by the Policy
Committee. Seconded by Jack Schular. Motion passed by voice vote.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Gary Wheeler to use money from the Mini Golf Fund Raiser to pay for the
buses to transport 3rd grade students to their annual library tour. Seconded by Sandy Austin.
Motion passed by voice vote.
Interim Director Badger is waiting to hear from Proud Electric about the replacement of
the lights above the charge desk. The plaster work cannot be done until the lights are in place.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:46 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
June 18, 2024
President David Reed called the June meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees to
order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Gail Russell,
Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel and Gary Wheeler and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board member Spencer Lawrence was absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the May meeting. Motion by Gary
Wheeler to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice
vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending May 31, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Jack Schuler.
Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The library will be partnering with Illinois Department of Employment Security, Public
Aid and BEST to have a dedicated computer area for job searches as well as educational
presentations in the Fall.
Friends of the Library are expanding their volunteering at the library.
Shaw Radio is doing twice a month interviews promoting programs at the library.
SOCU, Tropical Sno, McDonalds, Taco Bell, Caseys and Grand Ridge have made
donations to the library for the Summer Reading Program.
Summer Reading has 175 people sign up for the program this year.
Staff members are now wearing lanyards and are taking radios with them on the daily
walkthroughs.
The library has received a $27,500 technology grant from the Illinois Secretary of State.
Director Badger has submitted the paperwork for the annual PerCapita Grant.
Director Badger has submitted paperwork for a T-Mobile Grant.
The library has received an estimate from Oosterbaan for plaster work.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed will be checking with The Chamber about the fund raiser planned to
support both The Chamber and the library.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ The city has provided gravel to improve the area at the entrance to
the parking lot north of the library. The library has cleaned out the weeds and spread the gravel
in both areas.
Finance/ No report presented.
Policy/ The committee presented the reviewed Bulleting Board Policy and The Meeting
Room Policy. There were no changes to the present Bulletin Board Policy. Minor changes
were suggested for The Meeting Room Policy.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Director Badger is waiting for a final bid on the replacement of the lights below the
dome.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Gary Wheeler to increase Angela Danko’s wage to $15 per hour. Seconded by
Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice vote.
Director Badger informed the board on the condition of the lights located in the second
floor stacks. Some of the lights are not working and cannot be repaired. The board agreed that
the replacement of lights in this area should be included in next year’s budget with the
replacement to take place in January 2025.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:12 p.m.
Respectfully submitted
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
July 16, 2024
President David Reed called the July meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees to
order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence, Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Ellen
Vogel and Gary Wheeler and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Sandy Austin and Jack Schuler were absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the June meeting. Motion by Gary
Wheeler to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed by
voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending June 30, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Spencer
Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
Financial Officer Spencer Lawrence suggested a conference call be arranged with
Lauterbach & Amen for the September board meeting to review our agreement of services.
No bills were presented.
CORRESPONDENCE
The library received correspondence from the LaSalle County Clerk on information
necessary for the annual state library report.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Badger met with ComEd to discuss the replacement of the lights in the upstairs
stacks.
The library participated in the Independence Day parade.
Director Badger attended Caffeinate and Connect. She offered the library as a meeting
place for the group’s monthly meetings.
The check for the Per Capita Grant ($18,562) has been deposited.
307 individuals have signed up for the Summer Reading Program.
The library has joined the Starved Rock Reading Council.
Director Badger is investigating library membership in Find More Illinois through
RAILS.
The AC in the Sun Room has been repaired.
Director Badger has started a workbook of building repairs and maintenance going back
as far as records allow.
Director Badger will be attending the July Delegates ‘Meeting.
Security, non-resident cards and programming were discussed at the monthly staff
meeting.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed reminded the board that the Chamber of Commerce Fund Raiser will be
held on September 7th at 6 p.m. Money raised will benefit the Streator Public Library as well as
the Chamber.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Proud Electric has not submitted a bid or timetable for the lighting
below the dome. Oosterbann does not do lighting and they cannot do the plaster repair until the
lighting is completed.
Financial/ No report was given.
Policy/ The Meeting Room Policy was discussed and some changes were suggested. The
Committee will review the suggestions and present a revision at the August board meeting.
0Fund Raising/ Work has begun on the annual Mini Golf Fund Raiser for January 2025.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Director Badger will be looking at the cost of replacing the lights after her discussion
with ComEd.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Ellen Vogel to keep the minutes of any library executive session from
December 2022 through June 2024 closed. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed by
voice vote.
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to continue to offer subscription member cards at $55 per
year. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
Board members can review Serving Our Public on google drive. This needs to be done by
the September board meeting.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
August 20, 2024
President David Reed called the August meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees
to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence, Darcy Mollo, David
Reed, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel, and Gary Wheeler and Library Director Melissa Badger.
President Reed administered the Oath of Office to new board member Marc Cheffer.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the July meeting. Motion by Ellen
Vogel to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Sandy Austin. Motion passed by voice
vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending July 31, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Spencer Lawrence to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Jack
Schuler. Motion passed by voice vote.
Quinech has presented a bill for $4,409 for computer work done while Cynthia Maxwell
was director. The board agreed to allow the bill to be paid.
CORRESPONDENCE
No correspondence was presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Badger has completed the Workers’ Comp and Financial audits.
The library has received a proposal for the replacement of the lights in the 2nd floor
stacks.
The Ebsco database is up and running.
Fall programming is planned and dates are scheduled.
Angela Danko has resigned. Georgia Zito has been hired to fill the position.
A ten day advertisement was placed in The Times outlining an open janitorial positon and
a tech services position. Cost of the ad was $500. Director Badger suggests that it is no longer
necessary to place such an ad in the local newspaper when other options are available at no cost.
Director Badger has promoted Tiffany Webster to Assistant Library Director with HR
responsibilities. Mrs. Webster’s hours will remain the same with additional hours added only
when needed.
Director Badger attended the Delegates Assembly on July 30, 2024.
The library has acquired a new collection of Playaways.
Director Badger made a presentation at the Area Ministerial Association meeting.
The library has received the Tech Grant funding.
Summer Reading had 318 signups with 208 individuals completing the program.
Director Badger will be attending West of 47, an area library director’s group, on the 3rd
Wednesday of each month.
The monthly staff meeting focused on library displays and program promotion.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed provided board members with handouts on board meeting dates and
times for 2025, library trustees contact information, trustees’ term of office, and trustee
committee assignments for the coming year.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Committee Chairperson Gary Wheeler has done some bush
trimming around the library. The committee has not received any information on the replacement
of the lights below the dome.
Financial/ The accountant with Lauterbach & Amen will meet with the board at the
beginning of the September meeting to review the services provided by the company. The board
is now getting a monthly accounting of items on the library’s debit card.
Policy/ A Meeting Room Policy and a Collection Policy are ready for board approval
Fund Raising/ The Mini Golf Fund Raiser will be held on January 31 and February 1,
2025.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Director Badger presented a bid from Green Bee for $3,422, which cover materials and
labor, to replace 16 lights in the 2nd floor stacks. Motion by Gary Wheeler to accept the bid.
Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice vote.
The board has Director Badger to secure new bids on the replacement of the lights below
the dome.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the Meeting Room Policy presented by the Policy
Committee. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Marc Cheffer to accept the Collection Policy presented by the Policy
Committee. Seconced by Sandy Austin. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to no longer advertise library positions in the local newspaper.
Seconced by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Darcy Mollo to set the staring wage for the position of Assistant Library
Director at $17.50 per hour. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
Director Badger outlined how the money from the Tech Grant will be spent.
Director Badger will be taking vacation days November 4-8.
Motion by Darcy Mollo to elect the following officers for 2024-2026;
President David Reed Vice President Ellen Vogel Secretary Jane Farero, Financial
Officer Spencer Lawrence. Seconced by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
September 17, 2024
President David Reed called the September meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of
Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence,
Darcy Mollo, David Reed, and Jack Schuler, and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Ellen Vogel and Gary Wheeler were absent.
GUSEST SPEAKER
A representative of Lauterback & Amen explained the services the firm provides to the
library.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the August board meeting. Motion
by Marc Cheffer to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion
passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending August 31, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Jane Farero to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Darcy Mollo.
Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Dakota Roman has been hired to fill the vacant tech services position.
65 individuals attended the Hogwarts program on September 7th
.
Director Badger and a staff member attended the Streatscapes Committee meeting. They
are now members of the committee. Plans for a Fall Art Expo were discussed.
ComEd has approved the library’s lighting plan for the second floor stacks. Contracts
have been signed and work will begin in October.
6 area electricians have been contacted requesting bids on replacing the lighting below
the dome.
15 people attended the August Job Search program.
Director Badger presentation to Kiwanis on September 12 resulted in a donation to the
Friends of the Library for Halloween Trick or Treat books.
An additional 20 books have been purchased for the library’s Spanish collection.
Included in the monthly board packet was the library’s monthly program count plus a
listing of all library positions and the staff member filling the position.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ No report
Finance/ The committee will be meeting with Director Badger on September 24th to
begin work on the 2025 Budget
Policy/ Two new policies to be considered, a Infested Materials Policy and a Service
Animal Policy, were explained.
Fund Raising/ The Chamber Drawdown has been rescheduled for November 2, 2024.
Consideration of a Quarter Auction as a fund raiser was presented. The committee will be
meeting on September 27th to continue with the plans for the Mini Golf Fund Raiser.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ComEd has approved the library’s plans for the stacks lighting on the second floor.
Work will begin within the next month.
No bids have been returned for the lighting below the dome.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to accept the Infested Materials Policy presented by the
Policy Committee. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to accept the Service Animals Policy presented by the
Policy Committee. Second by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
October 15, 2024
President David Reed called the October meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of
Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence, Darcy Mollo, David
Reed, and Gary Wheeler, and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Marc Cheffer, Jack Schuler and Ellen Vogel were absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the September board meeting.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence.
Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending September 30, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Jane Farero to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Darcy Mollo.
Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRSPONDENCE
There was no correspondence presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The new lights have been installed in the non-fiction stacks. The library received an
additional $1000 ComEd incentive.
The library has partnered with The Elks Club and received a Spotlight Grant which will
provide coats for school children.
Computers purchased through the Tech Grant were installed during the staff’s service day
on October 4
th
.
Director Badger attended the Streatscapes committee meeting. The organization has
expressed an interest in a non-permanent mural for the library.
Director Badger and her staff attended several webinar PUG Day training events.
The Friends of the Streator Public Library has purchased 1270 books to hand out for
Downtown Trick or Treat.
The library has received a $1000 Mini-Grant for the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day.
Director Badger will be attending the Delegates Assembly Meeting on October 30, 2024
in New Lenox.
The monthly staff meeting covered new and/or revised library policies, the haunted
house, and the current staff handbook.
Director Badger is looking into a possible service contract with NCAT.
The staff appreciation dinner was enjoyed by the library’s employees.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
There was no report presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ The lights are installed in the second floor stacks. Requirements
relating to this winter’s snow removal have been discussed.
Finance/ A budget for 2025 has been drafted. Tax levies need to be to the city before the
November board meeting.
Policy/ Nothing from the committee at this time.
Fund Raising/ Letters are ready to go out to the 2025 sponsors. The committee is still
working on the Friday night sponsors event.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The library still has not received any bids from the letters Director Badger sent to area
electrical firms. The bids requested were for the replacement of the lights below the dome
murals.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Gary Wheeler to enter an agreement with NCAT to provide rides to patrons
who have no other way to get to and from the library with the cost of this agreement not to
exceed $100. Seconded by Sandy Austin. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Spencer Lawrence for the library to partner with The Elks Club to provide
coats for school children through the Spotlight Grant. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion
passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Special Board Meeting
November 14, 2024
President David Reed called the Special Meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees
to order at 5 p.m.
Presented were board members Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Jack Schuler, and Ellen Vogel and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Sandy Austin, Marc Cheffer, Spencer Lawrence, and Gary Wheeler were absent.
Library Director Melissa Badger presented the Tax Levies for 2025.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the Tax Levies presented. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
President Reed will deliver the Tax Levies today to the Streator City Council.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:10.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
November 19, 2024
President David Reed called the November meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of
Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Sandy Austin, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence,
Darcy Mollo, David Reed and Ellen Vogel, and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Jack Schuler and Gary Wheeler were absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the October board meeting. Motion
by Ellen Vogel to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion
passed by voice vote.
Secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the November 14, 2024 Special Board
Meeting. Motion by Darcy Mollo to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Sandy
Austin. Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORT
The financial report ending October 31, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Spencer Lawrence to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Ellen
Vogel. Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence to present.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Badger attended the PrairieCat Delegates Assembly Meeting.
Director Badger attended the monthly meeting of Caffeinated and Connected.
The library staff has completed the annual sexual harassment training.
300 people attended the library’s Dark Circus Haunted House event.
The Friends of the Streator Public Library handed out over 1000 children’s books at the
Downtown Trick or Treat Event on October 26.
The library has received a $1000 Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Mini Grant. The
library also held a Ruby Bridges program for St. Michael’s third grade class.
The NCAT service program has started.
The library is hosting an Owens job assistance program.
The monthly staff meeting covered a variety of issues including the winter programs.
On November 20, the annual State Elevator Certification Inspection will be done.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed informed the board of his encounter with former Library Director Cynthia
Maxwell at our local Walmart approximately 2 months ago. At this time Ms. Maxwell informed
him that sometime during the early years of her employment at Streator Public Library there was
a time when she was underpaid the correct amount due her.
President Reed told her if she felt she was underpaid, she needed to provide documentation for
such a claim and present it to the Streator Public Library Board. To date, neither President Reed
or the Streator Public Library Board has heard anything more on the matter.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ No report presented.
Finance/ The committee will be closing the Money Market account at SOCU and moving
the money to First State Bank where the library can secure a higher interest rate.
Policy/ No report presented.
Fund Raising/ The committee continues to finalize donations as well as set-up for the Mini
Golf Event on January 31 and February 1, 2025.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Director Badger presented the budget ($528,533) for 2025. Motion by Ellen Vogel to
accept the budget as presented. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
NEW BUSINESS
Streator Tourism has contacted the library about placing one of the Silhouette Statues on
the library grounds. Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept a Silhouette Statue of Clyde Tombaugh to
be installed on library grounds by Streator Tourism. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion
passed by voice vote.
The library board has completed the annual review of Serving The Public 4.0.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:22 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Meeting
December 17, 2024
President David Reed called the December meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of
Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were board members Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence, Darcy Mollo, David
Reed, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel and Gary Wheeler, and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board member Sandy Austin was absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the November board meeting.
Motion by Marc Cheffer to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Ellen Voge. Motion
passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending November 30, 2024 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Spencer Lawrence to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Marc
Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The HVAC system in the addition has been repaired.
Gertz has ordered parts for the smoke alarm in the break room.
The library has received a $3000 donation from a library patron. Another patron has
donated $1500 toward an 8-week program series “Many Voices, One Community”.
Coats that were purchased with the funds from The Spotlight Grant were distributed at
Kimes, Centennial, and Ransom schools and the Streator Headstart Program.
A new laptop computer has been purchased for the Library Director.
Director Badger is waiting for bids on the under-dome lighting from Durden Electric and
Tri-M Electric.
Oosterbaan & Sons has requested a start date for the under-dome plaster repair.
The Per Capita Grant has been submitted.
The 2025 Elevator Certification has been submitted.
The library is planning to send quarterly newsletters in 2025 to patrons who have shared
their email addresses with the library
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed informed the board that former board member Ed Brozak had a bad fall
and broke his collarbone last week.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Library will be contacting the company to set up a maintenance
schedule for the automatic back door.
Finance/ It was decided not to transfer money from SOCU as they were able to meet the
interest rate offer by another institution.
Personnel/ The library director has been evaluated for 2024
Fund Raising/ SOCU is once again the major sponsor for the 2025 Mini Golf Fund
Raiser. Plans are being finalized for the event.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to move to Executive Sesson to discuss staff compensation for
2025. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote. The board enter executive
session at 4:45 p.m.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to return to regular session. Seconded by Gary Wheeler. Motion
passed by voice vote. The Board returned to regular session at 5:01 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The dome project is waiting for bids on the lighting. Once a bid has been approved,
Oosterbaan & Sons will be contacted to set a start date for the plaster repair work.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to set salaries for Charlotte Badger, Madelyn Basina,
Nadler Petit-Dieu, Travis Oliver, Hannah Rathbun, and Georgia Zito at $15.48 per hour and
Dakota Roman and Dan Missel at $15.00 per hour. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed
by voice vote.
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to set Ashley Nicole Close’s 2025 salary at $16.11 per
hour. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to set Assistant Director Tiffany Webster’s 2025 salary at
$18.50 per hour. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Jane Farero to increase Library Director Melissa Badger yearly salary by 2.5%
above her present base pay. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice vote.
Director Badger suggested the library consider reducing the number of preventive
maintenance visits per year with Otis Elevator Company resulting in an annual savings of $1000.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to make the change with Otis Electric Company. Seconded by Spencer
Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary