2025
Board Meeting
January 28, 2025
President David Reed called the January board 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 Larence, Darcy
Mollo, David Reed, and Ellen Vogel, and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Jack Schuler and Gary Wheeler were absent.
GUESTS
Assistant Library Director Tiffany Webster introduced herself to the board.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the December board meeting.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence.
Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending December 31, 2024 prepared by Lauterback & 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
ComEd sent notice that the library is now part of “We’re Green”.
Ted and Theresa Quaka sent a donation to the library in memory of their son Clint.
The library has been named the Business of the Month for January by the Streator
Chamber of Commerce.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The 2025 Annual Illinois State Library Certification report has been accepted.
Director Badger is beginning classed to become MARC record certified by PrairieCat.
The library has purchased a baseline 3-D printer with money from our Tech Grant.
The library now has accessible peripherals for one public computer.
Director Badger promoted the library’s new laminator at the monthly Caffeinate and
Connect Meeting.
The library has been approved for an Illinois Humanities Road Scholars program grant.
Police charges were filed against the person who vandalized the carpet in the elevator.
Charges were filed against the individual who stole the library donation box.
Spencer Lawrence and Director Badger adjusted the library CD at Streator Home Savings
Bank.
The Illinois Public Library Statistics Report is ready for submission.
The December Library Statistics were provided to the board members.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ No report presented
Financial/ The CD at Streator Home Savings Bank has been adjusted. The necessary
board members need to have their names added to that account. Tim Armstrong will be
attending the February meeting to bring the board up to date on the library’s Endowment Fund.
Policy/ No report presented
Fund Raising/ Thursday night the committee will be setting up the Holes for the Mini
Golf Fundraiser. The fundraiser will be held Friday evening 6-9 p.m. and Saturday 10-2.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Director Badger has received bids from three companies on the updating of the lighting
below the dome murals. No action can be taken until clarification on some areas of the bids has
been addressed.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to add President David Reed and Secretary Jane Farero to
the authorized signers on any library accounts at Streator Home Savings Bank. Seconded by
Ellen Vogel. 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
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, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, Dave
Reed, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel, and Gary Wheeler and Library Director Melissa Badger. Board member Spencer Lawrence was absent
GUESTS
Tim Armstrong, financial advisor of the Enders Endowment, gave the board an overview
of fund.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the December board meeting.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Gary Wheeler. Motion
passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending January 31, 2025 prepared by Lauterback & Amen was
presented. Motion by Marc Cheffer to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Darcy
Mollo. Motion pasted by voice vote.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
New front and back door buzzers have been installed to ring at the front desk when the
doors open or close. One monitor at the charge desk is always monitoring the front and back
doors.
A filling cabinet drawer in the director’s office has been set aside for board use.
Dinosaur Day had over 50 attendees.
The monthly staff meeting discussed library policies and procedures.
The 2024 audit has begun.
Director Badger has contact Dick’s about replacing the damaged elevator carpet. It will
be a few weeks before they can do the replacement.
Director Badger will be speaking at the Kiwanis meeting on February 26.
An Emergency Stalking No Contact Order and a No Trespass Order has been filed
against a patron who has been harassing staff members.
Director Badger provided board members with a print out of the number of attendees at
the programs held at the library from January 19, 2025 till February 15, 2025.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
There was no report presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Chairman Gary Wheeler has asked each member of the committee
to develop a priority wish list of things that need to be addressed before the next committee
meeting.
Finance/ No report was given.
Policy/ The committee will be meeting next week to review the Employees Handbook.
Director Badger will be meeting with the committee to address areas where changes need to be
updated.
Fund Raising/ The Mini Golf Fundraiser was a great success. Over $7,000 was raised for
the library.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The electrical work below the dome is at a standstill. Tri-M Electric cancelled their
scheduled meeting with the board for January. They have not set another date to discuss their
proposal with the board. Proud Electric was interested in the project but has not submitted a
formal bid at this time.
NEW BUSINESS
No new business was presented.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
February 18, 2025
Board Minutes
March 18, 2025
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 members Sandy Austin, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, David
Reed, and Jack Schuler.
Board members Spencer Lawrence, Ellen Vogel, and Gary Wheeler were absent.
GUESTS
Justin Proud showed the board an example of the lights he suggests be used to complete
the area below the murals. He feels these lights would highlight the murals and should provide
adequate light for the charge desk below.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the February board meeting.
Motion by Darcy Mollo to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Jack Schuler. Motion
passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending February 28, 2025 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Jane Farero 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 to present.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Badger attended the Illinois Reading Council Conference in Springfield on
March 13 and 14.
The Illinois Library Association has invited Director Badger to be part of the ILA
Diversity Committee. She will be attending training for this position in Bloomington on April 10
and 11th.
Staff members Maddy Basina and Hannah Rathbum along with Director Badger will be
attending the ILA’s Reaching Forward North Conference on May 1, 2025 in Rosemont.
The Chamber of Commerce will be Hosting a Clue Fundraiser on April 6, 2025. Part of
the proceeds will benefit the library. Director Badger and staff members Tiffany Webster, Nicole
Close, and Nate Petit-Dieu will be attending.
37 young people attended the last Laser Tag event.
The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party had over 40 people in attendance.
Streator Public Library was the host for March’s Chamber of Commerce meeting.
The back door security camera has been updated.
100 new books have been added to the children’s board book collection.
Nate Petit-Dieu will be presenting an art program at Woodland School on March 19,
2025.
A library staff member is now presenting a monthly Storytime at Headstart.
Director Badger has applied for a Sherlock Holmes mini grant.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
There was no report presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Justin Proud presented his suggestions for the new lighting below
the dome.
Finance/ A CD has been moved from a short-term period to a longer-term period
Policy/ The committee has suggested some changes to the current Employee Handbook.
Fund Raising/ The Chamber of Commerce will be doing a fundraiser on April 6, 2025
which will benefit the Streator Public Library as well as the Chamber.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Proud Electric will be presenting a bid for the lighting work below the dome.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Jack Schuler to include all holidays as paid holidays to part time staff.
Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Jane Farero to accept all changes to the present Employee Handbook
recommended by the Policy Committee. Seconded by Sandy Austin. Motion passed by voice
vote with one no vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Meeting
April 15, 2025
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 Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence, David Reed, Jack
Schuler, Ellen Vogel, and Gary Wheeler, and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Sandy Austin and Darcy Mollo were absent.
GUESTS
Alex Kielion from Lauterback & Amen gave a Zoom presentation reviewing the services
his company provides the Streator Public Library.
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 Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by
voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending March 31, 2025 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
Director Badger shared with the board a letter she received for the Secretary of States’
office on the Institute of Museum and Library Science.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The library will be partnering with the Streator’s USPS office to celebrate the release of
the new Goodnight Moon stamp on May 2.
Fifteen class room visits are scheduled for spring.
The annual 3rd grade tour of the library will be May 19.
The library has received a $2,000 “My Library Is ….” Grant from RAILS. These funds
will be used to expand the library’s collection and its resources to better support survivors of
domestic abuse.
The library has been awarded $800 from the Jan Stauber Grant for a Sherlock Holmes
themed program series in July.
Through a $2,000 IEEE Science Kits for Public Libraries Grant, the library will be
offering take home STEM kits for hands-on learning.
The Streator Rotary Club has approved funding for our “Fabric & Friends” initiative.
Their $4,000 check will help the library create a dedicated sewing and quilting space.
The elevator flooring has been replaced.
All staff members have reviewed and signed off on the latest updates to the library’s
employee handbook.
The library is teaming up with ARC to provide a Senior Fair this summer. The Fair will
offer information on resources and services tailored to older adults in our community.
The Friends of the Streator Public Library are planning their annual May Day basket sale.
Proceeds from the sale go to support the library’s Summer Reading Program prizes.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
There was no report presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ The example of the lights for below the dome are in.
Finance/ No report.
Policy/ No report.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Justin Proud has submitted a bid of $26,500 for the purchase and installation of the lights
below the dome plus some plaster work in that area.
NEW BUSINESS
Director Badger presented board members with a summary of Serving Our Public 4.0
President Reed has contacted an individual about setting a date and time for a strategic
planning session. Board members will be notified as soon as a date is set.
The board is considering an electronic sign to be placed on the library lawn. President
Reed will check on any city ordinances pertaining to the placement of such a sign.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
May 20, 2025
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, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence,
Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Jack Schuler, and Gary Wheeler, and Library Director Melissa
Badger.
Board member Ellen Vogel was absent.
GUESTS
Justin Proud of Proud Electric brought a sample of a light that could be used below the
murals in the dome.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Jane Farero, board secretary, presented the minutes of the April 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 April 30, 2025 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Spencer Lawrence to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Darcy
Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
The board decided to move the funds gained at the Mini Golf Fundraiser from the general
fund into a Designated Fund.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
President Reed read a letter he received from past library director Cynthia Maxwell. In
the letter, Ms. Maxwell expressed her belief that she had not been adequately compensated for a
pay period while employed by the Streator Public Library.
President Reed contacted Lauterbach & Amen. The company reviewed Ms. Maxwell’s
pay periods and found that she had been correctly compensated while employed by the library.
A letter will be sent to Ms. Maxwell with the information received from Lauterbach &
Amen, stating that the Streator Public Library dose not owe Ms. Maxwell for any missed
compensation during her employment by the library.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The library participated in the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day event and hosted a Kid’s
Activity Corner at the Food Truck Festival.
The annual Fire Safety Inspection has been completed.
Director Badger was interviewed by the Museum and Library Services Blog about the
library’s dome project.
The Basement Book Sale raised over $150 for the library.
The Friends of the Library sold out of May Baskets. The proceeds for the sale will be
used for prizes for the Summer Reading Program.
Director Badger and staff members Maddy Basina and Hannah Rathbun attended the
Reading Forward Conference.
An increase in PrairieCat rates was announced at the Delegates Assembly.
Director Badger has completed her annual FOIA and OMA certification.
The Summer Reading Fun Fair Kickoff is scheduled for June 14.
The library is introducing a new “Read Every Day” format for Summer Reading to
improve equity and accessibility.
The Streator Chamber of Commerce donated $1,000 to the library from their Clue
Fundraiser.
The library has been approved for a $2000 Dollar General Literacy Grant that will benefit
ESL readers and reluctant readers.
Audio Book Kits purchased for children were explained.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Justin Proud set up a display of possible lights for below the dome.
Financial/No report
Policy/ No report.
Fundraising/ No report
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Need to make a decision on lights before we can get a final bid.
Strategic Planning meeting is set for May 23 at 5p.m.
A setback of 20 feet from the center of the road is required for the type of outdoor sign
the library is considering. Bids will need to be obtained for the sign.
NEW BUSINESS
The board needs to make a decision about what the library wants to do with the stain
glass windows stored by the city.
Motion by Sandy Austin to purchase a maintenance contract for the automatic door at a
cost of $566. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
The board approved Director Badger’s vacation days June 24 – 27.
No decision was reached on the lights for the dome.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
June 17, 2025
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, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence,
Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel and Gary Wheeler and Library Director
Melissa Badger.
GUESTS
Library staff member Nate Petit-Dieu introduced himself to the board of trustees and
explained his duties at the library.
SECRETARY'S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the May 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 May 30, 2025 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
No correspondence was presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The library was present at the Eagle 6 Summer Kickoff Event.
Summer Reading sign-up has begun.
Director Badger will be attending Directors University hosted by the Illinois Library
Association in August.
Through the “My Library Is…” Grant, the library will be purchasing mobile hotspots to
expand digital access.
The Northlawn Junior High Student Council has donated $250 to support our teen
section.
With the success of the summer hour video on Facebook, the library has launched a
TikTok account to broaden the library’s outreach.
The recent Strategic Planning meeting has led to the formation of committees focused on
key priority areas.
The basement water meter has been replaced with an updated unit.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed has not received a reply to the letter sent to former director Cynthia
Maxwell. Tracking the letter has shown that Ms. Maxwell has received the letter that was sent.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Chairperson Gary Wheeler has received a revised suggestion from
Justin Proud about the lights below the dome murals. A new bid for the suggested change will be
sent to the board for approval.
Financial/ Financial Director Spencer Lawrence will continue to look for good rates as
the library’s CD matures.
Policy/ The committee will be meeting in the near future to establish a policy for the
Fabric Station and to review policies related to donations to the library.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The library will be finalizing the selection and placement of a digital sign for the library.
The library will investigate to see exactly what stain glass we have stored with the city.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to investigate selling any stain glass that will not be used in some way
by the library. Seconded by Ellen Vogel. Motion passed by voice vote with one nye vote.
The library will discuss the lighting below the dome when Justin Proud Electric submits
its new bid.
NEW BUSINESS
The board reviewed Director Badger’s summary of the Strategic Planning Meeting.
Motion by Gary Wheeler not to require two pieces of mail to renew a subscription library
card. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to plan a celebration at the library on Saturday August 30 to
highlight Streator’s strong labor ties. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. 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
Board Minutes
July 15, 2025
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 Sandy Austin, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, David
Reed, Jack Schuler, and Ellen Vogel and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Spencer Lawrence and Gary Wheeler were absent.
GUESTS
Library staff member Georgia Zito introduced herself to the board of trustees and
explained her duties at the library.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the June board meeting. Motion by
Marc Cheffer to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Ellan Vogel. Motion passed by
voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending June 30, 2025 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Jack Schuler to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Marc Cheffer.
Motion passed by voice vote.
Spencer Lawrence informed the board that a CD would be coming due later this month at
SOCU.
CORRESPONDENCE
Director Badger has been notified the library will be receiving $734.90 from the estate of
Phillip E. Gladfelter.
The Illinois Secretary of State has informed the library they will be receiving a Per Capta
Grant for $18,437.50.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
` 300 plus individuals have registered for the Summer Reading Program.
The Summer Reading Kick-Off event had approximately 250 attendees.
Director Badger has begun a professional development series offered through the Illinois
Library Association.
Over 100 individuals participated in the Tie-Dye program.
Director Badger and Assistant Library Director Tiffany Webster hosted a Bluey in the
Park event. Approximately 150 community members visited the event.
The library had a table at the Kid’s Corner at Liberty Fest promoting their services and
programs.
The men’s rest room sink has been repaired and the air conditioning unit in the Sunroom
has been serviced and is now fully operational.
John Pomeranke had donated frames he created for the “Did You Know ….Streator”
posters to the library
Serving the Public 4.0 has been reviewed by the board.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Reed present board members with new committee assignments for the year. He
also provided a review of each board members term on the board.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ No report
Finance Committee/ No report
Policy Committee/ Recommended Fabric & Friends Maker Station Policy sent to board
members be approved.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Director Badger has received a bid of $7200 from Gatza Electrical for the library sign
electrical work.
The city is presently storing 7 cartons of stained glass belonging to the library. These
cartons need to be opened and the condition of the content needs to be evaluated.
The library is still waiting for an official bid on the dome lights below the murals.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Jack Schuler to continue offering non-resident library cards at the present
yearly cost of $55. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Sandy Austin to allow Director Badger to hire an attorney to develop a 501c3
plan for the library at a cost not to exceed $2500.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the Policy Committees recommendation for the Fabric &
Friends Maker Station. Seconded by Jack Schuler. Motion passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
August 19, 2025
Vice President Ellen Vogel 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, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero Jack Schuler, and Ellen
Vogel, and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Board members Spencer Lawrence, Darcy Mollo, David Reed and Gary Wheeler were absent.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the July board meeting. Motion by
Sandy Austin to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by
voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending July 31, 2025 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Jane Farero to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Sandy Austin.
Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for approval.
CORRESPONDENCE
The library has been contacted to see if they would be interested in being part of a
Quarter Auction fundraiser.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The awnings have been removed from the south side of the library.
211 of the 307 individuals signed up for Summer Reading completed the program.
Assistant Director Tiffany Webster led the Peoria Women’s Club on a tour of the library.
The library has passed the Fire Department inspection.
Director Badger has arranged training for herself and five staff members on the use of
Narcan with the LaSalle County Health Department on October 28th
.
The library will be closed on September 26th for a staff in-service day.
Director Badger attended a 3-day Directors University hosted by the Illinois Library
Association.
The library participated in the Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas in July event and took
part in a Back-to-School giveaway.
Two billboard spots have been scheduled through the Chamber of Commerce to promote
September’s Wizard School program and October’s Haunted Mansion event.
The library has received $2,000 from an IEEE Science Kit Grant and the first installment
of the $4000 Rotary Grant.
A community flyer spindle has been placed by the elevator to create a “community hub”.
Serving Our Public 4.0 has been replaced with Illinois Public Library Standards. Director
Badger will provide a review for board members of two section per meeting.
For a $300 fee ILA’s Fund for Illinois Libraries can help the library set up a 501(3)c.
Trustee Jack Schuler will be presenting a program on Fourth Amendment Rights on
August 23; President David Reed has a presentation on John Williams on August 30 and Trustee
Darcy Mollo will conduct a class on flower arranging on September 10.
A Staff Appreciation party is planned for August 22.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ No report
Finance/ No report
Policy/ Director Badger proposed an amendment to the library’s Financial Polices which
would allow her to exceed the monthly spending limit without board approval when necessary to
meet grant requirements. The Director will notify the Board President and the Financial Officer
of the need to exceed monthly limits in advance.
Fundraising/ Looking ahead to the 2026 Golf Fund Raiser.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Trustee Spencer Lawrence will be contacting possible masons for the foundation of a
library sign.
Trustees have not had access to the storage area to see the condition of the stained glass.
The library has not received a formal bid for the dome lights.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Jane Farero to elect Marc Cheffer Financial Officer of the Streator Public
Library Board. Seconded by Sandy Austin. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Marc Cheffer to accept the recommendation of the Finance Committee on the
proposed amendment to the library’s Financial Policy. Seconded by Jack Schuler. Motion
passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
Board Minutes
September 16, 2025
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, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel and Gary Wheeler and Library Director
Melissa Badger.
GUESTS
Staff members Nichole Close and Travis Oliver introduced themselves to the board and
reviewed the positions each held.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board Secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the August board meeting. Motion
by Ellen Vogel to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed
by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending August 31, 2025 prepared by Luterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Marc Cheffer to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Spencer
Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
The library has been presented the Business of the Year for Community Action Award by
the Chamber of Commerce. President Dave Reed was awarded the Lifetime of Community
Service Award by the Chamber.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The Homeschool Event at the library had 35 participants.
15 “fatheads” have been created for patrons with the poster printer and laminator.
The Friends of the Library’s “Downtown Trick or Treat” book order has been placed.
The number of attendees at the library’s Book Club and Mother Goode Club have
increased.
Library staff manned a table at PlutoFest held in the city park.
A number of maintenance issues have been addressed, air filters have been changed and
air vents have been cleaned, window leaks in the YA Room have been sealed and the elevator
button which was broken has been replaced.
The library has passed the sprinkler system’s Backflow inspection.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was given.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ The library still has not received an official bid from Proud Electric
on the cost of the lights selected for below the dome. Gary Wheeler will try to contact the
company about such a bid.
Finance/ The necessary changes to the signature cards at financial institutions the library
deals with have been changed and now have Marc Cheffer listed as he is the current Financial
Officer.
Policy/ No report at this time
Fund Raising/ The committee has met twice to complete the necessary work for the
annual Mini Golf Fund Raiser which will be held on January 31 and February 1 of 2026. The
sponsor’s letter will be completed soon and sent to possible sponsors for the event.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Contractors are in place and are now waiting for a date when the outdoor sign is ready so
installation can begin.
The seven large pieces of stain glass, which are stored with the City of Streator, need to
be uncrated so they can be measured and evaluated. The board will need help with the opening
of the crates as they are very heavy and need to have a large area for opening.
A formal bid is needed before the dome light project can move forward.
NEW BUSINESS
The Silhouette of Clyde Tombaugh to be placed on the library’s ground is a little larger
than life size. It was determined that the board needs to actually see the silhouette before a
decision on placement on library ground can be decided. President Reed will investigate when
and where the silhouette can be viewed.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary
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, March Cheffer, Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Jack Schuler,
Ellen Vogel, Gary Wheeler and Library Director Melissa Badger. Absent were board members:
Spencer Lawrence and Jane Farero.
GUESTS
Staff Member Dakota Roman introduced herself to the board and reviewed her position. Dakota
recently received her Cataloging Certificate and is now one of three staff members with this
certificate. Dakota is an online student of SNHU seeking a Creative Writing Degree.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board minutes of the September were presented. Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the minutes as
presented. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending September 30 2025 prepared by Lauterback and Amen was presented.
The deposit for the Electronic Sign has already been approved. Motion by Gary Wheeler to accept
the report as presented. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
No correspondence was presented.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Ellen Vogel commended Melissa Badger for the increase in numbers of circulation across the board
for the year.
The Library received an Anonymous donation of $400.00.
Indoor electric is complete for Outdoor Sign, we are waiting for the contractor to move forward.
The Friend’s books have arrived for Downtown Trick or Treat.
Local author Tommy Canale presented “Shadow Over Clear Lake” on Saturday, October 18, 2025.
41 adults were in attendance.
Library Director met with fellow Library Directors about Tax Levies and programming.
Library Director explained that Baker and Taylor is not in business any longer, forcing us to source
out a new vendor.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report given.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building and Grounds - Gary Wheeler mentioned new lights have been found for the Dome area and
a bid is forthcoming.
Finance - no report.
Personnel - no report
Policy - no report
Fundraising - Ellen Vogel reported 14 holes have been sponsored for the upcoming Carnegie
Challenge Mini Golf Funraiser. We have also received two $100.00 donations. St. Michael School
will bring the student body on Friday, January 30, to play the course as part of their Catholic Schools
Week activities for a fee of $500.00. Ellen Vogel met with former Trustee Gloria Gubbels about
obtaining her list for raffles.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Placement of the Silhouette - Gary Wheeler reported that tourism will help determine the best location for the silhouette.
Outdoor Sign - waiting on the contractor.
Stained Glass - the windows are in good shape. Pictures and measurements have been taken and
the windows will be placed on Ebay and other Salvage shops for sale. Motion made by Marc Cheffer
to sell the windows for $3,000.00 or best officer at the discretion of the committee. Seconded by
Ellen Vogel. Motion carried by voice vote.
Dome Lights - Justin Proud is getting some information and a bid for lights with a dimming feature.
Lights could be in the area of $700.00 each with some additional wiring required.
NEW BUSINESS
Tax Levy - Library Director Melissa Badger presented the Tax Levy. After review, we are requesting a
5% increase. Motion to accept the Tax Levy was made by Gary Wheeler. Seconded by Jack
Schuler. Motion carried by voice vote.
David Reed explained to the board PPRT.
Budget - Library Director Melissa Badger presented the Budget for 2026, after review by the board, a
motion to accept the Budget was made by Gary Wheeler and seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion
carried by voice vote.
Gary Wheeler spoke about moving forward on 501-3C status. An Endowment Board needs to be in
place with the following restrictions: 2 current Trustees, 2 former Trustees, and 3 community leaders
being named to this board.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:13 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Darcy Mollo
Board Minutes
October 21, 2025
Board Meeting
November 18, 2025
President David Reed called the November meeting of the Streator Public Library Board of Trustees to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present were library trustees Sandy Austin, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel and Gary Wheeler and Library Director Melissa Badger.
Absent was board member Spencer Lawrence.
GUEST Staff member Charlotte Badger introduced herself to the board and gave a review of her position at the library. Charlotte described a variety of extra activities she participates in which are offered by the library.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
The minutes of the October meeting were presented by board member Darcy Mollo. Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the minutes with a name change correction. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
The financial report ending October 30, 2025 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was presented. Motion by Jack Schuler to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Darcy Mollo. Motion passed by voice vote.No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
The library received notice that the Andrew Carnegie Foundation has awarded the library a gift of $10,000 in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Deceleration of Independence. The Illinois Arts Council awarded the library a grant of $9,000 for Creative Projects 2026. These funds will be used by Nadier Petit-Dieu to establish an Art Program at the library.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The library has presented outreach programs to over 215 students in 3 schools. The concrete work for the new outdoor sign has been completed.
Streator Unlimited has donated $1,000 to the library for hosting the Dignity in Pay program.
Gene and Diane Anderson donated $4,000 to the library The Friends of the Library passed out 1090 books to children at the Downtown Trick or Treat.
The Clyde Tombaugh and child silhouettes have been installed on the south side of the library.
Over 265 people attended the Haunted House created at the library.
The police were called over a disturbance created by two individuals.
The two people were given “No Trespass” orders to the library.
The annual elevator inspection has been scheduled.
The library parking lot has been resealed and parking spaces have been remarked.
There is a new Trustee training program available.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
No report was presented.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ The bid from Proud Electric needs to be reviewed.
Finance/ No report
Policy/ No report
Will look at a policy related to hoodies once an individual enters the library
Fundraising/ Will be contacting merchants about the possibility of donating a raffle item
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The concrete base for the sign is in place. Work will continue as soon as the sign is available
The stain glass windows will be advertised in a variety of ways including information on the library’s Facebook page.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Jack Schuler to accept the bid of $23,000 from Proud Electric for the replacement and upgrade of the lights below the dome. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote. Motion by Darcy Mollo to accept the bid of $9,000 from Proud Electric to repair the plaster damage to the area below the dome. Seconded by Gary Wheeler. Motion passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:12 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary.
Board Meeting
December 16, 2025
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 Sandy Austin, Marc Cheffer, Jane Farero, Spencer Lawrence,
Darcy Mollo, David Reed, Jack Schuler, Ellen Vogel, and Gary Wheeler and Library Director
Melissa Badger.
GUESTS
Staff members Maddy Basina and Hannah Rathbun introduced themselves and gave a
review of their positions.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Board Secretary Jane Farero presented the minutes of the November board meeting.
Motion by Gary Wheeler to accept the minutes as presented. Seconded by Spencer Lawrence.
Motion passed by voice vote.
FINANCIAL REPORT
The financial report ending November 30, 2025 prepared by Lauterbach & Amen was
presented. Motion by Ellen Vogel to accept the report as presented. Seconded by Marc Cheffer.
Motion passed by voice vote.
No bills were presented for payment.
CORRESPONDENCE
SOCU has notified the library that a CD will mature on January 9, 2026.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Badger has completed end of year staff reviews.
The staff has completed sexual harassment training.
The Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grant has been submitted and accepted.
PayPal is no longer the library’s online payment service. The library now has a square
account.
All staff laptops have been cataloged and will be checked in and out for each use.
Several stain glass windows have been sold. The total amount taken in so far is $1600.
The library received over $270 in donations following the Patio Pot Program.
Ribbon cutting for the opening of the Fabric and Friends venue occurred.
Director Badger was a speaker at the monthly Rotary Club meeting.
Director Badger will be a “Bell Ringer” on behalf of the library.
The staff appreciation party is scheduled for January 9 the at 6 p.m. at the Elks. The staff
has extended an invitation to the Trustees to join them for a night of bowling.
Director Badger will be taking a final 2025 week of vacation the week of December 22.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Building & Grounds/ Nothing
Finance/ SOCU will be contacted about renewal rates for the CD maturing on January 5,
2026.
Policy/ Nothing
Fund Raising/ SOCU will again be the main sponsor for the Mini Golf Fundraiser. All 18
holes have been funded. Students of St. Michael's School will be coming in on Friday, January
30th to golf.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion by Spencer Lawrence to move to executive session to discuss staff compensation
for 2026. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
The board moved to executive session at 4:53 p.m.
The board returned to regular session at 5 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The library is presently waiting for the correct sign to be installed.
Only the large, 7’ by 36”, stain glass window is left to sell. Because of the size it may be
difficult to find a buyer. $1600 has been earned from the windows that have been sold.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Jack Schuler to authorize a 3% raise for 2026 for all general staff members.
Seconded by Spencer Lawrence. Motion passed by voice vote.
Motion by Ellen Vogel to authorize a 3.5% raise for 2026 for Library Director Melissa
Badger. Seconded by Marc Cheffer. Motion passed by voice vote.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Wreith Farero
Board Secretary.