Sidney Public Library Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting Minutes

February 9, 2026 | 4:30 PM
Sidney Public Library

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1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 4:30 PM by Tanya Lewis, Board President.
The Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph was acknowledged and the Open Meetings Act was read and acknowledged.

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Roll Call
Board Members Present: Tanya Lewis, President, Marva Ellwanger, Nancy Sanders

Also Present: Jimie Ridnour, Library Director; Kristen Breining, Office Manager

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2. Comments from the Public None

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3. Report from the Friends of the Sidney Public Library
Nancy reported that the Winter Reading Program will wrap up at the end of March. Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Party will be held at the library on Thursday, March 5th, 2026 from 3:00pm – 5:30pm. At 5:30pm the theatre group will perform Horton Hears a Who at the library.

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4. Approval of Minutes from the Previous Board Meeting from 1/12/2026
Motion to approve the minutes made by Nancy. Seconded by Marva. All approved.

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5. Financial Report & Approval of Payment of Bills for January 2026

Motion was made to approve payment of the January 2026 bills by Nancy and was seconded by Marva. All approved.

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6. Communications to and from the Library Board

None

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7. Report from the Library Director
Library Director Jimie Ridnour provided the following updates:

• The library is actively interviewing applicants for the Bookmobile Librarian position.
• Currently Jimie and Sara are driving the bookmobile to keep the routes on schedule.
• Children’s storytime is exceeding expectations with over 4,000 YouTube views this month.
• There is one computer tower down, The Sidney Public Library Foundation will donate a new computer tower to the Library through Foundation grant from Pizza Hut that will be used for innovation.
• The water fountain in the library is no longer working. Jimie will research new, updated fountains as a replacement.
  
  8. Report from the Staff
  Makerspace Usage Fee Assessment
  Staff proposed adjusting Makerspace fees from a flat $5/day fee to material usage fees only.
  Motion was made to adopt a material-based fee structure for Makerspace usage by Nancy and seconded by Marva. All approved.

Magazine/Newspaper Subscription Renewal 

Kristen presented the board with the annual fees for magazine and newspaper subscriptions. The total fees are $1,117. Librarians commented that magazine use is sparse and a vast majority of the subscriptions are available on the Libby app available free to all library patrons. There will be several subscriptions that will remain in circulation due to popularity. A motion to approve the switch to Libby App based magazine/newspaper availability made by Nancy and seconded by Marva. All approved.

Monthly Library Income
Kristen spoke with the City Clerk and City Cashier and confirmed that the monthly library income that is provided to the City is being deposited into the City’s General Fund without being properly recorded to reflect the income in the Library’s Ledger. This issue is ongoing.

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9. Unfinished Business
Annual Officer Elections

This will be postponed until next month due to the active recruitment of two new board members.

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10. New Business
City Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 10th, 2026
Jimie will present the February report to the City Council. It was noted that the Library Board will also be on the agenda separately to discuss Ordinance 268 updates that was requested by the Interim City Manager, Josh Hanson. Jimie made note that despite her written request to have the Library’s own memorandum added to the Council’s meeting packet, the memorandum was not added. Jimie will include her memo in her address to the Council. The ordinance review is also set to include the possibility of changing the currently Governing Library Board to an Advisory Board.
Board Member Resignation Confirmation
Board Member Makayla Neuhalfen’s written resignation from the Sidney Public Library Board was acknowledged and took effect January 27, 2026, in accordance with the Library Board’s bylaws. The Board President thanks Makayla for her dedication and service to the Sidney Public Library Board.

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11. Adjournment and Next Meeting
The meeting was adjourned at 5:25 PM by Board President Tanya Lewis.
The next regular meeting of the Sidney Public Library Board will be held on:
Monday, March 9, 2026 at 4:30 PM

Sidney Public Library Foundation Board of Directors

Regular Meeting Minutes
February 9, 2026 | 5:26 PM
Sidney Public Library

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1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 5:26 PM by Tanya Lewis, Board President.
The Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph was acknowledged and the Open Meetings Act was read and acknowledged.

    Roll Call

Present: Tanya Lewis, Marva Ellwanger, Nancy Sanders
Staff Present: Jimie Ridnour-Library Director, Kristen Breining-Office Manager

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2. Comments from the Public

No public comments were presented.

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3. Approval of Minutes from the Previous Board Meeting on 1/12/2026
Motion to approve made by Nancy Sanders. Seconded by Marva Ellwanger. All approved.

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4. Financial Reports & Bills

A motion was made to approve Foundation reports and bills by Marva Ellwanger, seconded by Nancy Sanders. All approved.

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5. Unfinished Business

Foundation CD Accounts Update

Oregon Trail Community Foundation & Edward Jones Financial Presentations (January)

The Board revisited the financial presentations provided in January by representatives from Oregon Trail Community Foundation and Edward Jones.

Tanya noted that the services offered by Oregon Trail Community Foundation appeared to be more closely aligned with the mission and operational structure of the Sidney Public Library Foundation. Jimie Ridnour reiterated those sentiments and expressed support for moving forward with the Oregon Trail Community Foundation.

A motion was made by Marva to invest Foundation funds with Oregon Trail Community Foundation. The motion was seconded by Nancy. Motion carried unanimously.

Policy/Bylaw Review

Proposed Amendment to Article II, Section 2: Number, Tenure, and Qualifications

It was proposed to amend Article II, Section 2 of the Foundation’s Bylaws.

The newly adopted verbiage shall read as follows:

Amended Article II, Section 2: Number, Tenure, and Qualifications
The Board of Directors of the Sidney Public Library Foundation, Inc. shall consist of five (5) directors, appointed by the Board of Directors of the Foundation. The Board shall be self-perpetuating and shall have exclusive authority to appoint and remove directors in accordance with these bylaws. Directors shall be individuals from the community who are dedicated to the charitable purposes and long-term sustainability of the Sidney Public Library. Directors are not required to be members of the Sidney Public Library Board.

Directors shall serve terms of four (4) years and may serve no more than two (2) consecutive terms. Terms shall be structured to promote continuity of leadership.

Any individual currently holding elected public office or serving in an appointed governmental policy-making position shall be ineligible to serve as a director of the Foundation.

If a director vacates their position before the end of their term, the Board of Directors may appoint a successor to serve the remainder of the unexpired term. Service of a partial term shall not count toward the two-term limit, and the successor may thereafter be appointed to up to two (2) full consecutive terms.

A motion to approve the amendment was made by Nancy and seconded by Marva.

Motion carried unanimously. The amendment shall take effect immediately.

Board Member Resignation Confirmation

Board Member Makayla Neuhalfen’s written resignation from the Sidney Public Library Foundation Board was acknowledged and took effect January 27, 2026, in accordance with the Foundation Board’s bylaws. The Board President thanks Makayla for her dedication and service to the Sidney Public Library Board Foundation.

Board Member Search

Discussion was held regarding identifying and recruiting new board members.

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6. New Business

Pizza Hut $10,000 Grant

The Library Director was happy to report that after submitting an Innovation Grant application for $10,000 with Pizza Hut Foundation, the Sidney Public Library Foundation was awarded the grant. There will be a pizza party held at the Pizza Hut in Sidney, NE on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 from 11am-12pm to celebrate.

Annual Officer Elections

Officer elections were postponed to allow for additional clarification and preparation.

Foundation 2025 Financial Report

Tanya Lewis provided an internal review of the 2025 Foundation financial records and reported that there were no discrepancies and everything was in order.

City Audit Update

After back and forth communication with the City of Sidney’s independent auditors, Rauner & Associates, the City and Rauner & Associates have agreed to change verbiage in the City’s annual financial report to: “The City has considered whether any organizations should be included in the reporting entity as a component unit. However, based on the significance of the operational and financial relationship with the City, it has concluded that no organizations should be included.”

For at least the past thirteen years the City had listed the Sidney Public Library Foundation as a component unit of the City. This verbiage was deemed not viable and was changed at the request of the Sidney Public Library Foundation Board.

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8. Adjournment and Next Meeting

The meeting was adjourned at 5:55 PM by Tanya Lewis.

The next regular meeting of the Sidney Public Library Foundation Board will be held on:
Monday, March 9, 2026

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Sidney Public Library Board of Trustees
Annual Meeting Minutes
January 12, 2026 | 4:30 PM
Sidney Public Library

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1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 4:30 PM by Tanya Lewis, Board President.
The Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph was acknowledged and the Open Meetings Act was read and acknowledged.

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Roll Call
Board Members Present: Tanya Lewis, President, Marva Ellwanger, Nancy Sanders

Board Members Absent: Makayla Neuhalfen

Also Present: Jimie Ridnour, Library Director; Kristen Breining, Office Manager; Ashley Hopkins, Edward Jones; Kathy, Oregon Trail Community Foundation; Richard Landreth, Western Library System; Ethan Nelson, Western Library System

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2. Presentations
Oregon Trail Community Foundation
Kathy from the Oregon Trail Community Foundation (OTCF) provided an overview of managed fund options available to the library and foundation.
Richard Landreth shared positive experiences from Scottsbluff Public Library’s use of OTCF, emphasizing flexibility and ease of donor management.
The board agreed to review the information and reconvene before making a decision.
Edward Jones
Ashley Hopkins presented investment strategies including CD laddering and a bucket strategy approach.

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3. Comments from the Public
No public comments were presented.

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4. Report from the Friends of the Sidney Public Library
Nancy provided the report stating that FOSPL would start planning programming for the year next week.

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5. Approval of Minutes from the Previous Board Meeting from 12/8/2025
Motion to approve the minutes made by Nancy. Seconded by Marva. All approved.

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6. Financial Report & Approval of Payment of Bills for December 2025

Motion was made to approve payment of the December 2025 bills by Marva and was seconded by Nancy. All approved.

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8. Communications to and from the Library Board

None

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9. Report from the Library Director
Library Director Jimie Ridnour provided the following updates:

• Inventory completion with 35 missing books identified; a police report has been filed regarding missing DVDs.
• Children’s programming engagement has increased to over 2,000/month.
• Updates on technology acquisitions and Makerspace usage.
• Request for early closure of the library on 1/16/26 to allow staff to attend the City Awards Banquet.

Motion was made to approve early closure on 1/16/26 by Nancy. Seconded by Marva. All approved.

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10. Report from the Staff
Makerspace Usage Fee Assessment
Staff proposed adjusting Makerspace fees from a flat $5/day fee to material usage fees only.
Motion was made to adopt a material-based fee structure for Makerspace usage by Marva. Seconded by Nancy. All approved.

Baker & Taylor Collections Notice

Staff presented a collections notice from Baker & Taylor books from January 2024. The total due is $779.65. There is no documentation explaining why the invoices were not paid to date. Payment will be made in full and will be deducted from the library’s book budget.

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11. Unfinished Business
Interlocal Agreement Progress
Jimie provided an update on the interlocal agreement with the City. Discussion focused on:

• The need for clear documentation of the library board’s governing authority
• The City’s acknowledgment that ordinances may need revision

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12. New Business
February Report
Jimie will present the February report to the City Council in February on behalf of the board.
Annual Officer Elections
Officer elections will be postponed until a new board member has been appointed.

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13. Closed Session: Personnel
At 5:28 PM, Motion was made to enter a closed session for discussion of personnel matters.
The board reconvened in open session at 5:37 PM.

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14. Adjournment and Next Meeting
The meeting was adjourned at 5:37 PM by Board President Tanya Lewis.
The next regular meeting of the Sidney Public Library Board will be held on:
Monday, February 9, 2026 at 4:30 PM

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Sidney Public Library Foundation Board of Directors

Regular Meeting Minutes
January 12, 2026 | 5:37 PM
Sidney Public Library

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1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 5:37 PM by Tanya Lewis, Board President.
The Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph was acknowledged and the Open Meetings Act was read and acknowledged.

    Roll Call

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

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2. Comments from the Public

No public comments were presented.

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3. Approval of Minutes from the Previous Board Meeting on 12/8/25
Motion to approve made by Nancy Sanders. Seconded by Marva Ellwanger. All approved.

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4. Financial Reports & Bills

A motion was made to approve Foundation reports and bills by Marva Ellwanger, seconded by Nancy Sanders. All approved.

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5. Unfinished Business

Foundation CD Accounts Update

Discussion was held regarding existing CD accounts and potential restructuring. Presentations made by Edward Jones and Oregon Trail Community Foundation (from previous meeting)

Policy/Bylaw Review

The board discussed the need to review and possibly update the foundation bylaws. Postponed until the next meeting.

Board Member Resignation Confirmation

It was acknowledged that Board Member Rebecah Probst’s written resignation from the Sidney Public Library Board shall also serve as sufficient notice of resignation from the Sidney Public Library Foundation Board, in accordance with the Foundation Board’s bylaws.

Board Member Search

Discussion was held regarding identifying and recruiting new board members.

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6. New Business

Annual Officer Elections

Officer elections were postponed to allow for additional clarification and preparation.

Foundation 2025 Financial Report

Tanya Lewis will provide the 2025 financial audit and report at the February meeting.

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8. Adjournment and Next Meeting

The meeting was adjourned at 5:46 PM by Tanya Lewis.

The next regular meeting of the Sidney Public Library Foundation Board will be held on:
Monday, February 9, 2026

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Sidney Public Library Board Meeting Minutes

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

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1. Call to Order

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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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6. Report from the Friends of the Sidney Public Library

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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11. Public Comment

No public comment.

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12. Adjournment

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Adjournment Time: 5:22pm

Next Meeting: January 12, 2026

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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

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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.

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2. Roll Call

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

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3. Public Comment

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING

Sidney Public Library Board

November 18th, 2025

Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the Sidney Public Library Board will be held at 3:30 PM on Thursday, November, 20th, 2025, in the Virginia Smith room located in the Sidney Public Library at 1112 12th Ave, and will be open to the public. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss Nebraska Library Commission Recommendations. An agenda for the meeting, kept continually current, is available at the office located in Sidney Public Library for review. 

Posted for the Sidney Public Library Board by Kristen Breining, Office Manager

The special meeting scheduled for November 20, 2025 for the Library Board has been cancelled. Please contact the Sidney Public Library for any further inquiries. 308-254-3110

Posted for the Sidney Public Library Board by Kristen Breining, Office Manager

Sidney Public Library Board Meeting

Date: Monday, November 10, 2025
Location: Sidney Public Library
Call to Order: 5:31 p.m.
Adjournment: 6:44 p.m.

Board Members Present: Tanya Lewis, Nancy Sanders, Rebecah Propst, Makayla Neuhalfen

Board Members Absent: Marva Ellwanger

Others Present: Jimie Ridnour, Kristen Breining, Sandra Nelson, Adrienne Labay

1. Call to Order & Formalities

• Meeting called to order at 5:31 p.m.
• Confirmation that the meeting notice and time were published in the Sidney Sun-Telegraph.
• Confirmation that the Open Meetings Act is posted on the wall.

2. Public Comment

• Call for public comment.
• No public comments.

3. Friends of the Sidney Public Library – Report

• Two recent successful projects:
  • Halloween Pumpkin Decorating Contest
    • ~19 pumpkins entered. (Actual number: 33)
  • Puzzle Tournament
    • 14 teams participated.
      Two teams finished in 2 hours 30 minutes.
    • The next team finished around 3 hours; remaining teams were still on the border.

Winter Reading Program (December):

• Some ideas have been submitted by staff.

Action Items – Friends / Programs

• Friends & staff to finalize plans and incentives for the Winter Reading Program targeting ages 6–11 for December.
• Library staff to provide any additional suggestions/needs to Friends before launch.

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4. Financial Reports & Bills

• Board reviewed:
  • Monthly financial report.
  • Bills for approval.
• Clarification that reports and bills were provided at the meeting (and also monthly report is in the packet).

Motion: Approve the financial report and bills made by Rebecah Probst
Second: Yes by Makayla Neuhalfen
Vote: Motion carried, all in favor, none opposed.

Action Item – Director / Staff

• Process approved bills and file financial report as part of official records.
  

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5. Communications to/from the Board

• Question: Any emails or contact from the public not already discussed?
• No new communications reported.
  

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6. Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

(Handled later in the meeting but recorded here in logical order.)

• Minutes from October 14, 2025 Library Board meeting were presented.

Motion: Approve minutes from October 14, 2025 by Nancy Sanders
Second: Yes by Rebecah Propst
Vote: Motion carried, all in favor, none opposed.

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7. Library Director’s Report

7.1 KPIs & Usage

• KPIs are posted in the Director’s office; updated monthly by Sandy.
• Circulation:
  • Remains steady.
  • Adult materials remain the majority of checkouts.
  • Young Adult circulation is trending upward.
• Program Attendance:
  • Strongest in the 0–5 age group (largely due to Story Time).
• Story Time with Sarah:
  • Now available online (YouTube, Facebook, TikTok) when she’s out of town.
• Plan to expand programming for ages 6–11, aligned with the Winter Reading Program.

7.2 Public Computer & Internet Use

• October: 455 public computer sessions.
• Average session time: 55 minutes (slightly higher than usual).
• Primary uses: job applications, research, education.

7.3 Bookmobile

• Currently away for installation of the new wrap.
• October stats:
  • 428 people visited..
  • 2,810 patrons visited the library.
• New / potential stops:
  • After-school program at Banisters (pilot story time + library card signup, moving toward homework support).
  • Discussions with Safe at Home about adding additional stops.
• Wrap installation:
  • Estimated downtime ~2 weeks.
  • If longer, vendor will notify.
  • Expected return: 3rd week of November.

Action Items – Director / Staff

• Implement Banisters after-school stop with story time and library card sign-ups; explore homework support program (6–11 age focus).
• Continue discussions with Safe at Home to add stops and bring proposal back to the Board once details are clear.
• Provide a Bookmobile wrap and route update at the December meeting.
  

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7.4 Makerspace & Technology – Equipment

• Current makerspace equipment includes:
  • VR headsets (two older units, currently down).
  • 3D printer (in use).
  • Laser cutter.
  • Router for detailed wood cutting.
    
• Issue: Both VR headsets have failed; one public desktop tower has failed; no backup tower on hand.
  
• Proposal:
  
  • Purchase two new VR headsets (Quest 3):
    • One at approx. $499 (512 GB, more robust graphics/storage).
    • One at approx. $269 (128 GB). Storage mostly irrelevant for library use, as devices are wiped after each user session.
  • Purchase one new desktop tower to replace failed unit.
  • Then send the two old VR headsets and the failed tower out for repair to use as backups.
  • Estimated cost for new purchases: ~$1,500.
  • Funding source: Equipment Reserve Fund (~$6,000/year; rarely used).
    
• Board discussed:
  
  • 2-year lifespan for VR headsets is fairly standard.
  • 128 GB storage is acceptable given devices are wiped and do not retain saved games.
  • Director believes she can find prices lower than sticker quotes.
  • Note to check potential nonprofit discounts by contacting manufacturers directly.

Motion: Approve purchase of two VR headsets (one 512 GB and one 128 GB) and one desktop tower using the Equipment Reserve for approximately $1,500 by Makayla Neuhalfen
Second: Yes by Rebecah Propst
Vote: Motion carried, all in favor, none opposed.

Action Items – Director / Tech

• Source:
  • 1 × Quest 3 (512 GB)
  • 1 × Quest 3 (128 GB)
  • 1 × compatible desktop tower
    using Equipment Reserve funds, seeking best available pricing and nonprofit discounts.
• Send old VR units and failed tower for repair to create backups.
• Update Board at a future meeting on purchases and repairs.
  

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7.5 Library Management System (LMS): Alexandria & Biblionix Trial

Issue: Alexandria Receipt Printers Offline

• Alexandria recently pushed an update (~3 weeks ago).
• After update:
  
  • Star receipt printers stopped working.
  • Manufacturer (Star) confirmed hardware is fine.
  • Alexandria support reported:
    
    • Their system is “fine”.
    • They refuse to assist because the library did not purchase Alexandria’s proprietary receipt printers (costing ~$700–900 each).
      
• This effectively blocks use of current receipt printers.
  

Background: LMS Options

• Prior to printer failure, Director had already explored Biblionix Apollo:
  
  • Many Nebraska libraries in the system use Biblionix; only 1 (besides Sidney) still on Alexandria.
  • Biblionix quote: ~$1,300/year (software only).
  • Alexandria cost: ~$1,800/year.
  • Renewal cycle for Alexandria is in the summer, so both systems could run in parallel for a while.
    

Current Plan with Biblionix:

• Biblionix has agreed to:
  
  • Set up a trial environment within about 2 days.
  • Allow Sidney to run Alexandria and Biblionix in parallel as long as needed.
  • Help plug in existing printers and verify compatibility; they recommend the same printers Sidney already owns.
  • They sell no hardware; software-only model; therefore this problem (forced proprietary printers) cannot occur with them.
    

Interim Workarounds:

• Staff will:
  
  • Use handwritten receipts in the short term.
  • Possibly test an extra ticket printer donated via the French Door (child librarian’s husband) even though the primary issue appears to be Alexandria’s software rejecting non-proprietary printers.
    

Board Direction:

• No motion required yet.
  
• Board requested a status update in December:
  • Functionality of Biblionix (reports, circulation, printers, staff workflows).
  • Staff feedback on viability as replacement LMS.
    

Action Items – Director / Staff

• Work with Biblionix to:
  • Stand up the trial environment.
  • Connect existing receipt printers and test functionality.
    
• Staff to “drive it to try to break it”: test circulation, reports (e.g. Bibliostat), patrons, etc.
• Implement handwritten receipts for patrons until a stable solution is in place.
• Report back at the December Board meeting with:
  
  • Biblionix trial findings.
  • Recommendation on whether to migrate from Alexandria.
    

---

7.6 Grants & Funding Update

• Grants in process:
  
  • Pizza Hut Foundation – ~$10,000
    • Submitted; awaiting January announcement.
  • LTC Grant – applied at $20,000 and $10,000 levels
    • Has a firm deadline because they announce in January.
  • Library Improvement Grant – $20,000.
  • Robert B. Daugherty Foundation Grant – $80,000
    • Covers technology, including computers.
    • Application nearly complete; deadline mid-December.
  • Other: FNBO declined due to no local branch.
    
• Conversations:
  
  • Nebraska Community Foundation (Wendell Gaston):
    • Invited Director to submit all project ideas (matching those used in grants) to his foundation.
    • Stated he will put them “on the foundation’s desk” so the library can be first in line.
    • Director has submitted ~ $80,000 worth of projects for his review.
      

Action Items – Director

• Complete and submit the Robert B. Daugherty Foundation grant by mid-December.
  
• Track and follow up on:
  • Pizza Hut and LTC grant announcements (January).
  • Library Improvement Grant timeline.
  • Nebraska Community Foundation / Wendell Gaston response.
• Provide a grant status update at upcoming Board meetings.
  

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7.7 Gift Pack Fundraiser Proposal (“Christmas Book Gift Packs”)

• Concept:
  
  • Curated 3-book gift packs for purchase as gifts.
  • Books sourced from:
    • Existing Book Sale (including many “like new” titles).
    • “Books by the Foot” program (boxes of new surplus books at discounted prices).
  • Packs organized by:
    • Age ranges (children, teen, adult).
    • Potentially genre (fiction, historical, etc.), curated by each section librarian.
  • Pricing:
    • Proposed selling price: $20 per bag.
    • Estimated cost per bag: ~$5 (using Book Sale + Books by the Foot mix).
    • Estimated profit: ~$15 per bag.
      
  • Customers can:
    • Buy for friends/family (“blind date with a book” style: you see age/genre, not exact titles).
    • Sponsor a bag to be placed under the library’s Christmas tree for a family in need or for programs such as Toys for Tots.
      
• Financial impact:
  • Director estimates $4,000–$5,000 net profit if successful, to support computer purchases and future needs.
  • Plan is to make this an annual fundraiser if year one performs well.
    
• Funding request:
  • Use remaining $600 from the Thompson Foundation check specifically to purchase Book-by-the-Foot boxes and additional “new” titles.
  • This keeps foundation principal untouched for this pilot.
    

Motion: Allow the library to use $600 from the Thompson Foundation grant to launch the Christmas Book Gift Pack fundraiser by Nancy Sanders.
Second: Yes by Rebecah Probst.
Vote: Motion carried, all in favor, none opposed.

Action Items – Director / Staff

• Immediately purchase Books by the Foot and/or other new books using the $600 from Thompson Foundation funds.
• Curate & assemble 3-book gift packs by age (and where appropriate, genre), with each section librarian designing packs for their age group.
• Set out gift packs at:
  • Circulation desk.
  • Other high-visibility locations in the library.
  • Potentially partner businesses.
• Offer sponsored packs to be placed under the library’s Christmas tree and/or align with Toys for Tots.
• Launch marketing campaign:
  • Radio ad (replacing the previous book-signing spot).
  • Flyers for schools and media centers.
  • Social media & in-house signage.
• Track sales and report results (profit, volume) to Board after the holiday season.
  

---

7.8 “Book Boost” Pilot at The French Door

• Proposal:
  • Place a small “book nook” at The French Door (local business).
  • Use higher-quality Book Sale books on shelves there.
  • Customers purchase on site; French Door remits funds to the library.
  • Currently, no formal revenue split or contract; simple pilot to get books out of the garage and in front of people.
• French Door (Kelcey) is open to piloting and revisiting terms later.

Action Items – Director / Staff

• Select a curated batch of sale books (good condition, appealing titles).
• Set up display and signage at The French Door.
• Track:
  • Number of books sold.
  • Amount remitted.
• Report back after pilot period and propose more formal terms if successful.

---

7.9 Community Engagement & Operations

• Christmas Parade:
  • The library will enter the Bookmobile in the Christmas parade on December 6.
  • Intention to showcase the new wrap (if completed by then).
• New Cleaning Company:
  • Library put cleaning services out for bid.
  • Selected Tompkins Cleaning:
    • Previous vendor: $425/month, basic weekly cleaning.
    • New vendor: $300/month plus monthly deep clean at $110 = total $410/month.
    • Deep clean includes:
      • Ceiling fans.
      • Tops of bookshelves.
      • Other hard-to-reach and previously neglected areas.
  • Still under the previous budgeted line.
• Community Service Policy (Pilot):
  • Director has received 3 inquiries in ~3 days about community service hours.
  • Given the Director’s background in corrections, she proposed a strict community service policy, currently in pilot form.
  • Policy concepts:
    • All applicants must undergo a background check (coordinated with City HR).
    • Ineligible: any violent crimes, sex offenses, or similar serious offenses.
    • Minimum age: 18 (no minors).
    • Allowed tasks: cleaning, shelf reading, basic organizing, event setup, and other non-patron-facing jobs.
    • Community service workers are not allowed to interact with patrons directly.
    • Staff supervision and scheduled hours required.
    • Library reserves the right to terminate service at any time.
    • Workers will complete an application form acknowledging the policy and termination rights (form still in draft).
  • First test case: one person with a truancy-type offense; background check filed via city HR.
• Board feedback:
  • Strong support for a tight, written, enforceable policy.
  • Recognized need, given past negative experiences with community service at other local facilities.

Action Items – Director

• Finalize community service policy and application form as a living document.
• Continue pilot with carefully screened individuals:
  • Use background checks via City HR for each applicant.
• Bring formalized draft policy back to Board once fully written and tested for adoption as an official library policy.

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8. Staff Report – Makerspace & Programming

Report presented by staff Kristen Breining:

8.1 Makerspace Conference – Key Takeaways

• Staff attended a Makerspace Conference in Lincoln hosted at the UNL Innovation Campus.
• Takeaways:
  • Makerspaces are heavily used for community outreach and innovation.

8.2 Makerspace Marketing & Visibility

• Problem: The library’s makerspace is hidden (“out of sight, out of mind”).
• Plans:
  • Create display cases in the library featuring:
    • Finished projects (3D prints, wood items, etc.).
    • Explanation of which machines were used.
  • Extend displays to schools and businesses to increase awareness (e.g., lobby display with examples).
  • Add a makerspace section on the website:
    • Highlight available equipment.
    • Feature project ideas and programs.
  • Use flyers and email lists to promote makerspace activities and opportunities.

8.3 Take-Home Kit Program (Soft Launch)

• Take-home kits
  • Staff create components using makerspace equipment behind the scenes.
• Sign-ups:
  • Libraries in the conference often post kits on their website on a chosen day (e.g., Sunday).
  • First-come, first-served; wait lists are common.

8.4 Equipment & Partnerships

• Makerspace equipment includes:
  • 3D printer (currently running a patron project).
  • Laser cutter.
  • Router for detailed wood cutting.
• Wish list:
  • Sublimation machine (for mugs, tumblers, puzzles, etc.) – not currently owned.
    • Would enable printing images on puzzles, signs, etc.
• Potential partners:
  • WNCC (robotics/innovation programs):
    • Staff spoke with a WNCC vice president.
    • WNCC students could:
      • Help train staff on machines.
      • Assist with maintenance and troubleshooting.
    • Benefit: real-world experience for students, free help for library.
  • Local businesses:
    • Provide scrap wood, scrap metal, etc., as maker materials.
• Concern:
  • Maintenance costs on machines can be high if not properly cared for; partnership with WNCC could mitigate this.

Action Items – Makerspace Staff / Director

• Launch a pilot take-home kit program:
  • Start with Christmas cookie-cutter and decorating kits (3D-printed cutters and tips).
  • Create clear instructions and online sign-up process.
• Develop maker displays:
  • In-library display case with finished projects.
  • Explore displays at schools and local businesses.
• Build a Makerspace page on the library website:
  • Describe equipment and sample projects.
• Reach out formally to WNCC to:
  • Set up a partnership for training and maintenance.
• Explore material donations (scrap wood/metal) from local businesses.
• Present ongoing makerspace plan and early results at a future Board meeting.

---

9. Unfinished Business – Policy Amendments

9.1 Donation Flow & County Funds

Discussion centered on:

• Definitions & Scope:
  • What counts as “donations” vs. county appropriation for library/bookmobile services?
• Interlocal Agreement (2014):
  • Governs relationship between City and County regarding bookmobile funding.
  • Key points noted:
    • Funds are for library/bookmobile services.
    • Agreement states the City is responsible for library budget and accounting and appoints the library board.
    • There is supposed to be annual negotiation between City and County on the appropriate amount for bookmobile services.
    • There is confusion about the hierarchy between:
      • State statute.
      • City ordinance.
      • Interlocal agreement.
• City Council Meeting Reflection:
  • Board members expressed concern about:
    • Aggressive tone of a council member when the library requested a revision of the 2026 library budget.

9.2 Board Consensus & Next Legal Steps

• Board members agree:
  • The situation must be addressed.
  • Steps must be taken from the top down, aligning:
    • State statute.
    • Ordinances.
    • Interlocal agreement.

9.3 Decision on Policy Amendments Now vs Later

• There was originally an agenda item to amend policies and bylaws so that all donations.
• After discussion, Board decided:
  • Do NOT vote on amendments tonight.
  • Wait for additional legal guidance and clarity on:

Action Items – Director / Board Leadership

1. Follow up with Christa Porter:
   • Request written guidance addressing:
     • Options for amending or terminating policies.
     • Recommended process and timeline given the Jan 1 deadline for changes effective June 30.
2. Prepare Letters (Drafts) Pending Legal Guidance:
   • To Nebraska State Auditor:
   • To Nebraska Attorney General:
   • To City Manager
3. Special / Emergency Meeting:
   • Once guidance is received, Board will:
     • Call a special or emergency meeting (before January 1, 2026) if needed.
     • Review legal interpretations and recommendations.
     • Vote on:
       • Policy/bylaw amendments.

---

10. City Council Budget Discussion – Brief Update

• No new meeting with City Council since last discussion.
• Attempts to use the county line item to cover specific expenses (e.g., wrap, receipts) were denied; city stated that line cannot be used that way.

---

11. New Business

11.1 Cheyenne County Bookmobile Donations Discussion

• This item overlaps with interlocal/county funding discussion above.
• No separate motions taken; to be continued after more legal guidance.

11.2 Adult Programming

• Board requested increasing adult programming, e.g.:
  • Book clubs.
  • Programs using newly licensed content (adult program licensing starts Nov 12 per Director).

Action Item – Director

• Prepare a brief adult programming plan (book club ideas, licensed programming, timelines) and present at the December meeting.

---

12. Closed Session

• No closed session required.

13. Adjournment (Library Board)

• With no further business, meeting adjourned at 6:44 p.m.
• Next Library Board meeting: Monday, December 8, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.
  (returning to standard meeting time; special meeting possible if legal issues require.)
  

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Sidney Public Library Foundation Board Meeting

Date: Monday, November 10, 2025
Call to Order: 6:44 p.m.
Adjournment: 6:49 p.m.

Board Members Present: Tanya Lewis, Nancy Sanders, Rebecah Probst, Makayla Neuhalfen

Board Members Absent: Marva Ellwanger

Others Present: Jimie Ridnour, Kristen Breining, Sandra Nelson, Adrienne Labay

1. Call to Order & Formalities

• Meeting called to order at 6:44 p.m.
• Confirmation that the meeting notice was published in the Sidney Sun-Telegraph.
• Open Meetings Act noted as posted.

2. Approval of Previous Foundation Minutes

• Minutes from the October 14, 2025 Foundation meeting presented.

Motion: Approve minutes from October 14, 2025 by Nancy Sanders
Second: Yes by Rebecah Propst
Vote: Motion carried, all in favor, none opposed.

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3. Financial Reports & Bills – Foundation

• Financial statement emailed to all Board members shortly before the meeting (late-arriving bank statement).
• Additional financial notes from Director:
  • Bookmobile wrap charge pending (not yet reflected).
  • Savor & Grace: $20 donation for trunk-or-treat “Harry Potter” theming.
  • Radio advertising (KSID): $200/month contract for library ads (including upcoming gift pack fundraiser).

Motion: Approve financial report and outstanding bills for the foundation Makayla Neuhalfen.
Second: Yes by Nancy Sanders.
Vote: Motion carried, all in favor, none opposed.

Action Items – Foundation Treasurer / Director

• Process pending:
  • Bookmobile wrap invoice.
  • $20 trunk-or-treat donation.
  • $200 radio advertising payment.
• Keep Foundation Board updated on account balances, including inflows/outflows for special projects.

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4. Unfinished Business

4.1 Bookmobile Wrap

• See Director’s report for the Library Board meeting minutes November 10, 2025.
• Wrap in progress; completion expected within ~2 weeks.

4.2 Monthly Donations / County Funding

• Discussion effectively mirrored the earlier Board conversation regarding:
  • County bookmobile funds.
  • Interlocal agreement.
  • Possible future flow of funds directly to the Foundation.
• No additional motions or decisions specific to the Foundation beyond what is already planned (audit/legal pathway).

---

5. New Business

5.1 Annual Foundation Officer Elections

• Given:
  • The volume of policy and legal work underway.
  • The absence of some board members (e.g., Marva).
• Board decided:
  • Postpone officer elections until all members are present and the policy review is further along.

Decision: Table officer elections to January 2026 meeting.

5.2 Policy Amendment

• Topic: Amending Foundation/Library policy
• Recognizing:
  • Need for a comprehensive policy review (required every 3 years; last done in 2022).
• Decision:
  • Table this specific amendment, with the intent to:
    • Address it as part of the broader policy and bylaw review.
    • Revisit in December for an interim update and ultimately in early 2026 for formal adoption.

Action Items – Foundation / Director

• Place on agendas:
  • December 2025: Brief update on donation policy direction and legal guidance.
  • January 2026:
    • Officer elections.
    • Begin integrated policy/bylaw review.

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6. Closed Session

• No closed session required.

7. Adjournment (Foundation)

• Meeting adjourned at 6:49 p.m.
  

Next Foundation meeting: Monday, December 8, 2025 (following Library Board meeting), unless rescheduled.

Sidney Public Library

Board Meeting

October 14, 2025

Date: 10/14/2025

Meeting Start Time: 4:31 pm

Meeting Finish Time: 5:00 pm

Board Members Present:

Nancy Sanders, Marva Ellwanger, Rebecah Propst

Others Present: 

Jimie Ridnour, Kristen Breining, Sandra Nelson, Kagan Carwin, Autumn Ramirez

Board Members Absent:

Tanya Lewis and Makayla Neuhalfen

• Motion to excuse Tanya and Makayla from the meeting was made by Marva Ellwanger, seconded by Nancy Sanders., Unanimous approval. Motion carried.

Meeting Called to Order At: 4:31 PM by Marva Ellwanger

Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph

Acknowledgement of Open Meetings Act

Friends Report given by: Nancy Sanders – nothing to report today.

Comments from the public: None

Approval of Minutes from previous board meetings: Nancy Sanders made a motion to approve meeting minutes from September 8th & 24th 2025. Seconded by Rebecah Propst, unanimous approval. Motion carried.

 Bills & Financial Reports: 

Nancy Sanders made a motion to approve, Rebecah Propst seconded. Unanimous approval, motion carried. 

 Report From the Director:

Jimie Ridnour: 

1. Commendation for Library staff member: Jimie reported a commendation that was written for Kristen Breining in regards to her involvement in resolving the issues with respect to the library’s 2026 budget.
2. Thompson Foundation funds update: Jimie reported email correspondence with the Thompson Foundation that gives the library the approval to administer and use the $3,000 Thompson Foundation grant as they deem fit. Jimie recommends using funds for advertisements through BigBoy radio. An agreement has been made for $200/month for 20-30 second radio ads. Rebech Propst makes a motion to approve allocation of funds to advertising. Nancy Sanders seconds. All approve.
3. Library website update: Jimie has updated the library’s website security certificate and the domains owned by the library. Due to extensive website design costs, the new library website will be built in-house.
4. Library phone update: New VOIP phones have been implemented at the library. No additional costs were incurred in the switch to RingCentral from NT&T. 
5. Two New Policies created by Jimie Ridnour and are fully implemented.
   1. Collection Weeding and Acquisitions Policy
   2. Bed Bug Policy
6. Overdue book information: Statistics and current procedure provided to board as was requested in the previous meeting by Nancy Sanders.
7. 2025 NE Makerspace Conference: Jimie proposed three library staff members attend the Makerspace Conference from Nov. 3-5, 2025. The proposed amount is $1,350. All three staff members have applied for grants. If awarded, grant funds will go towards conference fees. Nancy Sanders makes a motion to approve, Rebecah Propst seconds, All approve. 
8. The library will be hosting author Gary Dunker on November 7, 2025 from 1-3pm for a book signing. 
9. One children’s ELS computer is no longer working. For three ELS computers the approximate cost is between $8,900-$9,000. Jimie is working on grant proposals to receive funds to purchase new computers and will update when possible.

 Report From Staff:

• None

Unfinished Business:

• 2026 Library Budget – The library board will attend the City Council meeting later this evening. The library board has requested to be on the council’s agenda to provide a grievance regarding their 2026 budget. The library board believes everything needed to be said will be in Tanya Lewis’ remarks later in the evening.
• HVAC Update – The HVAC repairs have been successfully accomplished by Gering Valley Plumbing & Heating for a total cost of $6,014. 
• Policy/Bylaw Amendments – Board members will review current policy/bylaws for the library board and will reconvene next boarding meeting to discuss possible amendments.

New Business: None

Closed Session: None

Next Regular Meeting: November 10, 2025 at 5:00 pm

There being no further business the meeting as adjourned at 5:00pm

Sidney Public Library Foundation

October 14, 2025

Date: 10/14/2025

Meeting Start Time: 5:01 pm

Meeting Finish Time: 5:12pm

Board Members Present: 

Nancy Sanders, Marva Ellwanger, Rebecah Propst

Others Present:

Kristen Breining, Jimie Ridnour, Sandra Nelson

Board Members Absent:

Tanya Lewis & Makayla Neuhalfen

• Marva motion to excuse Tanya & Makayla from meeting. Nancy seconded, unanimous approval. Motion approved..

Meeting Called to Order At: 5:01 pm

Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph

Acknowledgement of Open Meetings Act

Approval of Minutes from previous boarding meetings

• Rebecah moves to accept previous minutes. Nancy seconds motion, unanimous approval. Motion carried.

Bills & Financial Reports: Nancy motions to approve, Rebecah seconded. Unanimous approval. Motion approved.

Comments from the public: None

Report From Staff:  None

Unfinished Business:

• Report from Library Director, Jimie Ridnour regarding bookmobile wrap contest: The 2nd wrap option won the contest. The total cost will be $6,057.00 with Whiting Signs & Graphics. Nancy motions to approve cost for the bookmobile wrap, Rebecah seconds. All approved. 

 New Business:

• The Annual Library Foundation Board election will be postponed until the November 5th meeting.

Next Regular Meeting: November 5, 2025 immediately following the Library Board meeting.There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at: 5:12PM.

Sidney Public Library

Special Board Meeting

Date: 9/24/2025

Meeting Start Time: 5:00 pm

Meeting Finish Time: 5:48 pm

Board Members Present:

Tanya Lewis, Nancy Sanders, Marva Ellwanger, Rebecah Propst

Others Present: 

Jimie Ridnour, Kristen Breining

Meeting Called to Order At: 5:00 PM by Tanya Lewis

Affidavit of Publication in the Library foyer, City of Sidney building bulletin board, Post Office bulletin board.

Acknowledgement of Open Meetings Act

Comments from the public: None

Unfinished Business:

Tanya: No unfinished business

New Business: 

• Special session convened to address immediate HVAC repair needs for unit nearest the front door to the library.
  • 2 bids received:
    • Day & Night Plumbing & Heating, LLC for $5,500
      • $4,500 for VFD & Board replacement
    • Gering Valley Plumbing & Heating for $6,014
  • Tanya says that both bids are similar pricing with the same issues mentioned. 
  • Jimie says that each company uses different suppliers. Gering will also take off the additional estimate fee if chosen. Jimie says the communication was clearer with Gering and has made a recommendation to go with them.
  • Rebecah motions to approve moving forward with Gering Valley Plumbing & Heating. Nancy seconds. Unanimous approval. 
• Library budget for 2026
  • Jimie spoke with Josh Hanson regarding rectifying the budget issue for the library for 2026. Jimie said that Josh said that he is unable to change the library’s budget at this point as it has already been finalized but will present a letter to the city council and the Library Board acknowledging errors made by the City of Sidney including not involving the library board in the 2026 city budget planning process. 
  • Tanya would like to write a letter as well to the city council addressing the errors made by the City of Sidney along with a formal grievance to include the library board’s disapproval of the 2026 budget.
  • Rebecah and Tanya would like to address the budget process with the city and revise the library board’s bylaws and policies to be done at a future board meeting.
  • Tanya reviewed $45,000 in library budget cuts for the 2026 fiscal year to begin October 1, 2025. Budget cuts include:
    • $822 from employee annual bonus
    • $800 from Bookmobile gas & oil
    • $35,000 from Maintenance building & structure (includes 2025 $30,000 allocated to library for parking lot construction)
    • $2,000 from vehicle maintenance
    • $3,350 from books & magazines
    • $700 from shipping/freight
    • $4,500 from library automation
    • $500 from postage

• No closed session

Adjournment and date of the next board meeting: Tuesday, October 14th, 2025. 

Meeting adjourned 5:48pm

Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the Sidney Public Library Board will be held at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, September 24th, 2025, in the Virginia Smith room located in the Sidney Public Library at 1112 12th Ave, and will be open to the public. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss HVAC repair bids for the library. An agenda for the meeting, kept continually current, is available at the office located in Sidney Public Library for review. 

Posted for the Sidney Public Library Board by Kristen Breining, Office Manager

Sidney Public Library

Board Meeting

Date: 9/8/2025

Meeting Start Time: 4:30 pm

Meeting Finish Time: 5:15pm

Board Members Present:

Tanya, Lewis, Nancy Sanders, Marva Ellwanger, Makayla Neuhalfen, Rebecca Propst

Others Present: 

Kristen Breining, Heather Rohm, David Scott, Autumn Ramirez, Jeremy Lee

Meeting Called to Order At: 4:30 PM by Tanya Lewis

Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph

Acknowledgement of Open Meetings Act

Friends Report given by: Nancy Sanders – nothing to report today.

Comments from the public: None

Approval of Minutes from previous board meetings: Nancy Sanders made a motion to approve meeting minutes from August 2025. Seconded by Makayla Neuhalfen, unanimous approval. Motion carried.

 Bills & Financial Reports: 

For August 2025, Beki made a motion to approve, Nancy seconded. Unanimous approval, motion carried

Communications to and from the Library Board:

Report from Director: 

• Jimie Ridnour: Asked for update on Thompson Foundation and who to contact regarding foundation check received.

Tanya: Thompson Foundation awarded Library Foundation grant for certain items not needed by library.

• C.A. Story Grant – Jimie needs all expenditures to produce foundation with year end report.
• Library Website – Library will need to update website to stay in compliance. Sometimes website it down. Nebraska Library Commission no longer assists libraries with their websites. We have until October to remain in compliance. Library’s website creator is from Sweden. Jimie would like to bring all website maintenance back inhouse. No approval needed at this time. Jimie will research options and costs and bring back to the board.

 Report From Staff:

Kristen:

• Carpet cleaning results went well but multiple stains still left around the library.
• Oktoberfest Parade: Approval needed for library closure to attend the Oktoberfest parade on October 4, 2025 from 9AM-1PM. Nancy motion to approve, Makayla seconds. Unanimous approval.
• Bookmobile Wrap: Heather provided the board with 3 mockups to review and decide. Normally companies charge $1,500 for mockups. The library was not charged.Jimie suggested bringing the decision to the public. For a donation the public can put in a vote for choice of mockup. Advertise vote on social media and the radio.Board agrees, no vote needed at this time.Makayla suggested allowing students/children to sign the exterior of the bookmobile for a donation. Board agrees to stay with choice from mockups as it would be preferable to keep the Sidney Public Library design.Heather: Final cost will be $3,263. Normal price would be $3,500. Not sure of warranty at this time.Tanya asked if there is money to pay for the wrap and investigate a warranty further. There is a worry that bubbles may appear underneath wrap. Jimie responded: “So for or the question that you’re saying do we have one trying we’re trying to go through on like the donations and what our balances are on the donations and we are kind of still trying to track where those are at. I think that if we know if the… the same thing with my thoughts on a few ideas going forward with different parades and those kind of things, if we are able to know where the donations are going to be going like the book sale we have a pretty good plan on what we’re going to do for the book sale and kind of make it more public. If we know those things are going to be going to the foundation I would have a better idea to forecast what we can spend. For right now I’m having a hard time tracking certain donations and I’ve been going through getting some things from Kegan like where they are at and what the balances are but I’m not sure…to tell you that yeah we have this somewhere to be able to pay for it. Tanya requests to put wrap on the agenda for October. 

Unfinished Business:

Tanya: No unfinished business

New Business:

• Public library survey training registration: Continuing education for board members. Each board member agrees to do four hours. The deadline for completion of hours is 2028. Nancy recommends the board meets on a specific day to go through several courses together. Each board member receives their own hours regardless of attending class together. 
• Tanya introduced new Library Director Jimie Ridnour to the library
• Job description overview:
  • Autumn has Nancy’s changes – yearly changes should be based on job description. 
  • Staff employee evaluation performed by the Director and the board performs the Director’s evaluation.
  • Staff evaluations need to be completed by September 19th, 2025
  • Jimie will perform evaluations for Sara and Kristen within 6 months of their hire date and the board will perform Jimie’s evaluation within 6 months of her hire date. 
  • Each job description includes driving the bookmobile. Nancy suggests it is a waste of the Director’s time driving the bookmobile.
  • Autumn: All employees are under city insurance policy and can drive bookmobile
  • Also add to job description each employee must maintain CE hours

• February Report
  • The library Director is required to produce a February report and present it to the board and then the board presents the report to the state.
  • Beki: The Director is required to create an annual budget for the library, then present it to the board for approval. This process was not done this year. 
  • Suggested to write a letter or go to the City Council to let them know the process in the library for providing them with their budget.
  • David Scott: Stated there is a format for the budget process that he can provide the library. 
  • Tanya: In prior years the previous Library Director, Amanda, would present the board with a budget. 
  • Kristen: Her understanding was that David Scott was the Acting Director.
  • Beki: Stated that a lot of money had been cut from Library budget for 2026 and the board had no say in it.
  • Tanya: Agreed the budget was not presented to them this year.
  • Autumn: Explained annual employee budget increase procedures
  • David Scott: Explained he was not involved until the departure of the last Director of the Library. He explained that Kegan sends budget worksheets to each department and that a worksheet was filled out and returned to him. He agreed that a significant amount of the budget was cut due to the parking lot fund. Beki then mentioned that there were other items cut from the Library’s budget including the book budget.
  • Tanya: Asked for clarification from David on who sent the worksheet to him and when it was sent.
  • David: Said that he was not aware that the board did not see the budget.
  • Tanya requested that the worksheet be found to review.
  • Autumn believes that Kegan and the previous Office Manager Naomi completed the worksheet together.
• Election of Officers for the Sidney Public Library board:
  • The election was postponed in January 2025 because there were only three members on the board. 

President:

Beki nominates Tanya Lewis for president. Nancy seconds. Unanimous approval.

Vice President:

Makayla nominates Marva Ellwanger. Nancy seconds. Unanimous approval.

Treasurer:

Nancy nominates Beki. Makayla seconds. Unanimous approval.

Secretary:

Policy needs revision and will be discussed in the next board meeting. 

• Tanya will schedule staff evaluations for next week. One or two board members should be present. Larami, Sandy and Heather’s evaluations are due.
• Tanya stated she will not be present for the October meeting. Tanya requested the November meeting be moved to 5:30pm.

Adjournment and date of the next board meeting: Tuesday, October 14th, 2025. A meeting of the Sidney Public Library Foundation will follow the regular board meeting.

Meeting adjourned 5:15pm

Sidney Public Library Foundation

Board Meeting

September 8, 2025

Meeting Start Time: 5:17 pm

Meeting Finish Time: 5:36pm

Board Members Present: 

Nancy Sanders, Marva Ellwanger, Makayla Neuhalfen, Rebecca Propst

Others Present:

Kristen Breining, David Scott, Autumn Ramirez, Jeremy Lee

Board Members Absent:

Tanya Lewis

• Marva motion to excuse Tanya from meeting. Nancy seconded, unanimous approval. Motion approved..

Meeting Called to Order At 5:17pm: 

Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph

Acknowledgement of Open Meetings Act

Approval of Minutes from previous boarding meetings

• Nancy motions to approve previous meeting minutes, Makayla seconds. Unanimous approval

Bills & Financial Reports: 

Beki: Stated that all foundation money should be located in a separate place from the city. She stated it appears funds are going to the city for expenditures.

David Scott: Stated that he was not aware of that and that the foundation money is separate from the city.

Kristen: Stated all library donations, book sales and all other donations are going to the city general fund.

David Scott: Stated yes they are going to the city and asked if the board would prefer if the donations came to the library.

Beki: All foundation expenditures should stay with the library foundation so that they remain tax exempt.

Kristen: After reconciling the foundation bank accounts it appeared that donations started to go to the city in January 2023.

Autumn: Stated it could be due to the bookmobile and fundraising for the bookmobile.

Jimie: There is difficulty in tracking where all donations went as they were placed in the city general fund and she is not sure how to untangle the web.

Marva: Would like all future donations go to the foundation account.

Beki motion to approve, Marva seconded. Unanimous approval. Motion approved.

Report From Staff:  None

Comments from the public: None

Unfinished Business: None

Old Business: None

New Business

• Jimie: Would like to have book sales included in e-commerce possibly through Amazon and possibly other sites. 

• Beki: Spoke with Krista from NLC and the foundation will need to register with the Nebraska Library Commission.

• Marva: Has requested Kegan be present for the next foundation board meeting.

Next Regular Meeting: October 14, 2025

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at:  5:36PM.

Adjournment and date of the next board meeting: Tuesday, October 14th, 2025. A meeting of the Sidney Public Library Foundation will follow the regular board meeting.

Sidney Public Library

Board Meeting

Date: 8/11/2025

Meeting Start Time: 4:30 pm
Meeting Finish Time: 5:27pm

Board Members Present:
Nancy Sanders, Marva Ellwanger, Makayla Neuhalfen, Rebecah Propst

Others Present:
Kristen Breining, Heather Rohm, David Scott, Autumn Ramirez, Sara Cottrell

Board Members Absent:
Tanya Lewis
Motion to excuse Tanya from the meeting was made by Marva Ellwanger, seconded by Nancy Sanders., Unanimous approval. Motion carried.

Meeting Called to Order At: 4:30 PM by Marva Ellwanger
Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph
Acknowledgement of Open Meetings Act

Friends Report given by: Nancy Sanders – nothing to report today.

Comments from the public: None

Approval of Minutes from previous board meetings: Nancy Sanders made a motion to approve meeting minutes from June 2025. Seconded by Rebecah Propst, unanimous approval. Motion carried.

Bills & Financial Reports:
Makayla made a motion to approve, Nancy seconded. Unanimous approval, motion carried.

Report From Staff:
Heather Rohm reported an Amazon check was lost. Tanya will need to go to Security First Bank to cancel the check as she is the only authorized signatory on the account. Need to update board member signatures. Tanya has been emailed with the request to cancel the check. There will be a $32 check cancellation fee.

Kristen reported that the Library BOD will need recertification with 20 cumulative continued education hours by 8/18/25. Autumn provided additional information on available courses. Kristen will send the BOD an email with a link for recertification. BOD will divide hours. Needed for the library to stay accredited.

Kristen asks the BOD for a copy of bylaws, Autumn will email Kristen the bylaws.

Kristen provided the BOD with the OverDrive Renewal Agreement. Annual subscription is $951.10 for 9,511 residents. The library has a credit of $496.90 that will be applied to the total due. Total remaining due will be $454.20. Marva signed the renewal agreement.

Kristen provided the BOD documentation for the 2025 Nebraska Library Association annual conference in York, NE.
Total proposed cost for 3 attendees: $1,546.30. Conference fees before 8/31 $375, after 9/1 $450. Travel fees: $195.30 gas/mileage. Lodging: Approx. $515 for 2 nights, 2 rooms. Per diem total: $462.
Conference will include office management training, AI courses, sessions for learning for all age groups, expanding online presence, passive programming, STEM & more.
Nancy asked how many staff will stay in the library while the 3 staff attend the conference. Kristen answered two staff will stay to man the desk/office during normal business hours.. Staff will receive credits towards NA Librarian Certification Program.
Motion to approve: Makayla, Rebecca seconds. Unanimous approval.
Motion approved.

Kristen reported that her computer can only access online accounts. Autumn spoke with Dave Porter, he apologized that he has not been back yet and will contact Autumn to schedule a time to return to contact the previous Library Director to obtain Microsoft Office key.

Comments from the public: None

Unfinished Business:

Carpet cleaning – Autumn thinks it will be easiest to close the library August 29th to clean and that will give over the weekend time for the carpet to dry. A/C will need to stay on the entire time.
Motion to approve library closure on Friday, August 29th by Marva, seconded by Rebecah Propst. Unanimous approval, motion approved.

Bookmobile:
Autumn asked when the vendor can have more drafts of bookmobile exterior artwork
Heather said by August 14th or 15th. Heather will send pictures and prices to Autumn. Autumn will forward to the BOD.
Autumn – Eileen’s retirement party will be August 28th from 2pm-5PM in the Library. She said that anyone can bring a card or gift. Autumn mentioned everyone can also pitch in together to get a gift.

New Business:
Introduction of new Library staff Kristen Breining the Office Manager and Sara Cottrell of Children Services.

Closed Session:
Makayla made a motion at 5:00pm to enter a closed session for personnel discussions. Rebecah seconds, Unanimous approval. Motion approved.

Closed session ended at 5:27pm

Next Regular Meeting: September 8, 2025

There being no further business the meeting as adjourned at: 5:27pm

Sidney Public Library Foundation
Board Meeting

Date: 8/11/2025

Meeting Start Time: 5:31 pm
Meeting Finish Time: 5:34pm

Board Members Present:
Nancy Sanders, Marva Ellwanger, Makayla Neuhalfen, Rebecah Propst

Others Present:
Kristen Breining, David Scott, Autumn Ramirez

Board Members Absent:
Tanya Lewis
Marva motion to excuse Tanya from meeting. Nancy seconded, unanimous approval. Motion approved.

Meeting Called to Order At:
Affidavit of Publication in the Sidney Sun Telegraph
Acknowledgement of Open Meetings Act
Approval of Minutes from previous boarding meetings
Nancy moves to accept previous minutes. Marva seconds motion, unanimous approval. Motion carried.

Bills & Financial Reports: Rebecah motion to approve, Marva seconded. Unanimous approval. Motion approved.

Report From Staff: None
Comments from the public: None
Unfinished Business: None
Old Business: None
New Business: None
Next Regular Meeting: September 8, 2025
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at: 5:34PM.