Library officials save energy costs

Thursday, October 23, 2008

By SHANNEN HAYES

Staff Writer

With most tax-supported agencies in Putnam County reporting problems, officials at the Putnam County Public Library were all smiles Wednesday night.

Members of the library board learned that they have one-third of the money in their 2008 budget remaining and just two months left in the year. This should ensure that services are maintained through the end of the year.

But board members are still being cautious when it comes to their finances. On Wednesday, they approved the hiring of Kurt Stevens of K & B Solutions. Stevens, an energy conservation consultant, will adjust the heating and air system at the library, which he says will save the library 37 percent in costs. The recovery is on a three-year basis. He was approved for one year.

In other business, a special meeting was set for Oct. 30 to review bids for a $300,000 loan. Due to a delay in the advertisement of the loan, the board approved a transfer of money to cover payroll in November. The transfer will only take place if needed.

There has been a 6-percent increase in circulation from more than a year ago. The library has seen computer usage go up along with holds being placed. The 198-percent increase in holds placed is not due to a lack of books on hand, but rather people are better utilizing tools offered by the library.

It was announced that Thomas Jefferson would speak from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 16. There will also be a silent auction. Friends of the Putnam County Public Library sponsor this event.

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: