Sidney Public Library Board Meeting Minutes

Date: December 8, 2025
Time: 4:30pm
Location: Sidney Public Library

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order by Tanya Lewis, Board President, at 4:30pm.

2. Roll Call

Present: Tanya Lewis, Marva Ellwanger, Nancy Sanders
Absent: Makayla Neuhalfen
Staff Present: Jimie Ridnour-Library Director, Kristen Breining, Sara Cottrell

Aso in Attendance: Autumn Ramirez, Human Resources-City of Sidney

3. Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

Previous meeting minutes were reviewed and approved. Motion by Nancy Sanders, seconded by Tanya Lewis. Marva Ellwanger abstained due to absence of the previous board meeting.

4. Approval of November 2025 Financial Report

The November 2025 financial report was reviewed and approved. Motion by Nancy Sanders, seconded by Marva Ellwanger. Unanimous approval.

5. Approval of payment of bills for November 2025

The payment of bills for November 2025 were reviewed and approved. Motion by Nancy Sanders, seconded by Marva Ellwanger. Unanimous approval.

6. Report from the Friends of the Sidney Public Library

The winter reading program will begin on December 10th, 2025.

7. Library Director’s Report given by Jimie Ridnour

Juvenile Nonfiction Collection Review:
The Director discussed an in-depth review of the juvenile nonfiction collection, noting gaps in subject coverage and circulation challenges. 

This approach would allow staff to be more intentional with collection development, prioritizing areas where the collection is outdated or underrepresented, instead of attempting to broadly fill all subject areas at once. The Director emphasized that this model supports both budget efficiency and improved patron use.

The Director stated that additional research and comparison of vendors, costs, and content quality will be conducted before bringing a formal recommendation to the Board.

OATS Program:
The Director provided an update on the OATS (Older Adult Technology Services) program, noting continued coordination with program partners and positive patron engagement. The library remains committed to supporting this service as a key access point for older adults and will continue to monitor participation levels and scheduling needs.

Terrific Thursday Programming:
An update was provided on Terrific Thursday programming, which continues to see consistent attendance and positive community response. The Director noted that this program supports community engagement, and staff will continue to evaluate themes, attendance trends, and resource needs moving forward.

Library Closure and Board Vote:
The library closure proposal was brought before the Board by the Director and a formal vote was taken to approve the closure. The Director emphasized the importance of clear communication, documentation, and Board involvement in any future closures.

  • Motion to approve the library’s closure to the public from January 5th-January 10th, 2026 for library inventory, shelf reading and in-service training made by Nancy Sanders, seconded by Marva Ellwanger. Unanimous approval.

Community Service Program Update:
The Director provided an update on the library’s community service process. Procedures have been clarified and standardized, and the library has begun receiving applications. Several applications have already been submitted and are currently under review. The Director will keep the Board informed as placements are approved and participation progresses.

Alexandria and Biblionix Trial:
The Director reported that the library is currently participating in trial periods for the Biblionix integrated library system. This trial is being used to evaluate functionality, usability, reporting capabilities, staff workflow impact, and patron experience. Staff have been testing features and identifying strengths and limitations of each system in relation to the library’s operational needs.

  • Action Item:
    The Director will compile feedback from staff, compare costs and long-term benefits, and present a recommendation to the Board at a future meeting for consideration and possible action. Follow up will be in March 2026 board meeting.

8. Staff Reports

a. Grinchmas Open House

Staff presented plans for the annual Grinchmas Open House:

  • Scheduled for Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 p.m.
  • The event will coincide with the library’s holiday open house.
  • Activities include snacks, crafts, games, and a reading of How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
  • Staff will provide hot chocolate (including themed varieties), and board members were invited to contribute baked goods if desired.

b. Collection Weeding and Reorganization

Staff reported progress on weeding juvenile nonfiction. It was noted that some books flagged for low circulation were newer and in good condition but may not be circulating due to placement. As a result:

  • A new Easy Reader Nonfiction section will be created.
  • This section will consolidate age-appropriate nonfiction materials to improve visibility and circulation.
  • Initial feedback from parents has been positive.

c. Summer Reading Program

Plans for the 2026 Summer Reading Program were discussed:

  • Theme: “Unearth a Story.”
  • Programming will focus on dinosaurs, archaeology, and paleontology across age groups.
  • The Friends of the Library have agreed to cover planned program supply costs.
  • A performer from Omaha has been tentatively identified, with an estimated total program cost of $550 or less, including shared travel expenses with other libraries.
  • Upgraded reusable fabric bags featuring the Friends logo and summer reading theme will replace previous plastic bags.
  • Additional prize costs will be kept local where possible.

9. Unfinished Business

Interlocal Agreement with County Commissioners

The Board discussed updates and concerns related to the interlocal agreement:

  • The Library Director met with the Interim City Manager to review concerns and discuss the need for clearer financial tracking.
  • During that discussion, several issues were acknowledged, including inconsistencies in historical tracking and the need for clearer documentation related to county funds allocated to the library. The Interim City Manager agreed that certain ledger practices should be corrected or standardized and committed to addressing these issues to improve accuracy moving forward.
  • It was agreed that improved transparency and annual review of the interlocal agreement are essential.
  • The Board expressed support for working collaboratively with the City and County to implement best practices before considering changes to fund routing.
  • The Director indicated that the Interim City Manager is willing to co-present with library leadership at a future County Commissioners meeting to explain the need for amendments or improved reporting practices, provided the funds continue to be routed through the City. If routing were changed, the library would need to independently present its case.
  • It was also noted that historical expenditures and prior concerns remain under review by external entities, including the State Auditor, and that additional clarification is still being sought regarding past transactions. The Board expressed support for continuing to pursue answers while simultaneously focusing on establishing stronger procedures moving forward.

10. New Business

  • The Board discussed the annual staff Christmas luncheon. General logistics and timing were reviewed, and appreciation was expressed for staff efforts throughout the year. Food will be provided by Savor & Grace. Each board member will contribute and equal amount for the luncheon. 
  • Holiday Open House 
    • Staff provided an overview of plans for the annual Holiday Open House. The event will be held in conjunction with other seasonal programming and will serve as a community open house for patrons throughout the day. Light refreshments, informal activities, and opportunities for community engagement were discussed. The Holiday Open House will transition into the Grinchmas program during the afternoon hours. No formal action was required.
  • Board Member Resignation – Rebecah Propst
    • The Board acknowledged the resignation of Board Member Rebecah Propst. The resignation was discussed, and the Board expressed appreciation for Ms. Propst’s service and contributions during her tenure. The process for filling the vacancy was briefly reviewed, including the need to follow applicable procedures and timelines when considering a replacement. No formal action was taken at this time.

11. Public Comment

No public comment.

12. Adjournment

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Adjournment Time: 5:22pm

Next Meeting: January 12, 2026

Minutes submitted by: Kristen Breining, Office Manager

Sidney Public Library Foundation Board

Meeting Minutes

Date: December 8, 2025
Time: 5:22 p.m.
Location: Sidney Public Library

1. Call to Order

The meeting of the Sidney Public Library Foundation Board was called to order at 5:22 p.m by Tanya Lewis. Notice of the meeting was published in the Sidney Sun Telegraph, and the Open Meetings Act was posted in the meeting room.

2. Roll Call

Present: Tanya Lewis, Marva Ellwanger, Nancy Sanders
Absent: Makayla Neuhalfen
Staff Present: Jimie Ridnour-Library Director, Kristen Breining

3. Public Comment

There were no members of the public present, and no public comments were made.

4. Approval of Previous Minutes

A motion was made to approve the minutes from November 10, 2025 by Nancy Sanders. The motion was seconded by Tanya Lewis and approved by majority vote. Marva Ellwanger abstained due to absence of the previous board meeting.

5. Financial Reports and Bills

It was reported that monthly statements had been distributed. Expenditures for the month included costs associated with the holiday book program and the standing $200 monthly payment to KSID Marketing for advertising. Total deposits for the month were reported as $209 from donations and book sales.

A motion was made to approve the financial reports and expenditures as presented by Marva Ellwanger. The motion was seconded by Nancy Sanders and approved unanimously.

6. Unfinished Business

a. Bylaws and Policy Review

Recommended amendments to the Foundation bylaws and related policies were presented for board review. These included suggested language regarding board member removal for nonattendance. Board members were asked to review the materials, with further discussion deferred to the next meeting.

b. Bookmobile Wrap Update

An update was provided on the recently completed Bookmobile wrap. Minor bubbling and edge trimming were noted, with assurance that these issues should resolve over time. The wrap includes a warranty, and written confirmation of coverage will be obtained from the vendor.

7. New Business

a. Officer Elections

Annual officer elections will be held at the January 12, 2026, meeting.

b. Financial Reporting Timeline

The Board will be provided with 2025 financials in early January 2026. The newly elected Treasurer will present a financial audit and report at the February 2026 meeting, if feasible.

c. Certificates of Deposit (CDs) Update

An overview was provided of the Foundation’s four certificates of deposit held at Security First Bank, totaling approximately $200,000. Interest rates ranged from 0.7% to 1.6%, with several CDs maturing in January 2026.

After discussion, a motion was made to authorize the Library Director and/or Office Manager to roll the two CDs maturing prior to the next meeting into the Foundation savings account until further investment decisions are made by Marva Ellwanger. The motion was seconded by Nancy Sanders and approved unanimously. Research into alternative investment or CD options will be conducted and reported at the next meeting.

d. Fundraising and Program Updates

Updates were provided on the Gift of Reading fundraiser and the pilot book sale program. The Gift of Reading fundraiser reported $220 in revenue to date, with remaining inventory available. The pilot book sale program has generated four sales with minimal startup costs.

e. Program Funding Approval

A request was made to approve up to $300 in Foundation funds to support booking a Lego-themed program, due to the absence of Friends of the Library funding. A motion was made, seconded, and approved unanimously.

f. Board Member Resignation

The Board acknowledged the resignation of Library Board Member Rebecah Propst. Discussion included whether a separate resignation is required for the Foundation Board. Staff will verify proper procedure and report back at the next meeting. The importance of compliance with the Open Meetings Act, including avoiding board business via group email communications, was reiterated.

8. Adjournment

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:51 p.m.

Next Meeting: January 12, 2026

Minutes submitted by: Kristen Breining, Office Manager