PCPL board discusses possible legal changes

The Indiana Senate voted 36-13 Tuesday in favor of a bill that could lead to library districts consolidating or expanding to cover unserved areas.

Putnam County Library Director Alice Greenburg told board members Wednesday she had the opportunity to speak with State Rep. Nancy Michael (D-Greencastle) during an "I Love Legislation" day.

"Nancy has been briefed on the bill," she said.

Senate Bill 348, which now goes to the Indiana House for consideration, would require all counties except Marion to establish a committee to examine library services in their county.

The committee would consider various options on consolidation or expanding services, or leave the current situation unchanged. The plan would have to be reviewed by the state library.

The bill's author, Sen. Beverly Gard (R-Greenfield) has stated some half-million people in Indiana live in areas with no library service, even though there are 239 library districts in the state's 92 counties.

In other business, Greenburg announced use of the library has definitely increased. Circulation has decreased, but in no particular collection. The fantasy, science fiction and western collections are up in circulation.

Internet use in all departments is also up by 7 percent, reported Greenburg.

Board members voted to keep the $25 fee for a non-resident library card. There are currently 14 non-resident library cards issued by PCPL.

The next board meeting will be held March 18 at the Reelsville Fire Station.