Huntley library board hopefuls debate budget

During a recession, many turn to their local library as a resource for free information and entertainment.

But to whom does the library turn during difficult economic times?

The Huntley Area Public Library tried asking voters for a tax increase - twice. And twice, voters said no.

So with circulation and attendance up, and with revenue from property taxes, developers and investments declining or stagnating, the Huntley library is looking at ways to make itself more efficient.

Library Director Virginia Maravilla emphasizes that the library is nowhere near a crisis, but is looking for ways to save money.

"We're just trying to be as careful as we can with the money we have," Maravilla said.

Candidates for the Huntley library board proposed a number of cost-cutting and revenue-generating measures to help the library weather the economic storm.

Incumbent Judith Klein said the library could save on maintenance while taking advantage of library grants.

"If you can move some of the maintenance costs in house, that's always good," Klein said. "I think we should go for every single grant we can go for."

Incumbent Leslie Threadgill-Smith said the library needs to look at charging nonresidents to attend programs, cutting back on paid speakers and increasing fees it charges developers - known as impact fees.

"There is an imbalance (in the) distribution of impact fees," Threadgill-Smith said. "That's something the board has started to look at. It needs to be pursued even more."

Library board President Kathleen Pilat, who is seeking re-election, suggested consolidating bids and purchases.

"Even making small changes like that can save us a lot of money in the long run," Pilat said.

Challenger Guy DeMaertelaere said he would look at every line item of the library's budget to find potential savings.

"I'm hoping we can reduce costs on the electronic services the library provides," DeMaertelaere said. "If the revenues are going to be down, we have to look at every process we do today to see if there are any processes we can cut out."

Challenger Jeanne Adu-Brako could not be reached for comment.