Pocatello library board reports rising digital checkouts, policy reviews and a $10,000 Carnegie gift for beautification

Sandra Shrapshshire, chair of the Library Board of Trustees, presented the board's annual report to the council, highlighting year‑round programs for adults, teens and children, an increase in e‑book circulation and ongoing policy work.

Shrapshshire said the board reviewed several policies (gift acceptance, distribution of literature, exhibits and unexpected closings), broadened the gift policy to include non‑book donations and plans a formal strategic planning process with city planning staff participation. She told council the Carnegie Foundation awarded a $10,000 gift that the board intends to use to improve landscaping and the entryway along Garfield Street.

Council members asked about elevator performance, bathroom infrastructure needs and the feasibility and cost of RFID tagging for self‑checkout. On the elevator, Shrapshshire said, “The elevator works beautifully.” On RFID tagging she estimated a full system could cost roughly $100,000–$125,000 to tag and equip the catalog.

Staff and council thanked board members for their work and encouraged the board to pursue grant matches and to present during the city's nonprofit budget presentation slot.