Peotone Public Library District Meeting | October 21, 2025

The Peotone Public Library District Board of Trustees on October 21, 2025, took significant action to expand services and handle key financial matters. The board’s most notable decision was the unanimous approval of $35,000 to purchase and install an automated library locker system in Monee, a project that will see the Village of Monee covering utility costs. A detailed article on this expansion is available. In another key financial move, the board unanimously approved its Certificate of Revenues, a necessary step in the annual tax levy process, which is also covered in a separate story.

The board also approved updated policies regarding remote work and the investment of public funds. A vote on the library’s closure dates for 2026 was postponed until the November meeting. Present for the meeting were Vice-President Jean Oliver, Treasurer Susan Chisausky, Secretary Bonnie Patek, and Trustee Mary Jane Carlson.

Updated Remote Work Policy Approved
The board approved an updated remote work policy by a unanimous voice vote. According to the meeting minutes, the revised policy stipulates that “no one can work from home except for the exceptions listed on page 17 of the Agenda booklet for October 21, 2025.” The motion was made by Trustee Mary Jane Carlson and seconded by Trustee Susan Chisausky.

Board Approves New Investment Policy
A new policy governing the investment of public funds was unanimously approved by the board following a 4-0 roll call vote. The motion to approve the policy was made by Trustee Jean Oliver and seconded by Trustee Bonnie Patek. The signed document was given to Director Sarah Ehlers.

Library to Consider Accepting Card Payments
Library Director Sarah Ehlers announced that she is looking into purchasing a terminal to allow the library to accept credit and debit card payments for services through the payment processor Square. After a brief discussion on the details, board members did not object to Ehlers taking the next steps to explore implementing the new payment option for patrons.

Vote on 2026 Closure Dates Postponed
Action on Ordinance 25-06, which sets the library’s closure dates for the 2026 calendar year, was deferred. The item was listed under unfinished business but will now be brought before the board for a vote at its November meeting.

ARPA Grant Funds Earmarked for Hoopla
Director Sarah Ehlers reported that the library would receive the remainder of its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funds upfront. She stated that this money is specifically earmarked to pay for Hoopla, a popular digital media service that allows patrons to borrow movies, music, audiobooks, ebooks, and more online.