Hello Worthington! Here's your recap of what happened at the November 18, 2025 Worthington Libraries Board of Trustees meeting, held at Worthington Park Library. Below are brief summaries of the most significant discussions. For the full details, we've included links to longer articles.
Board Approves $31.6 Million Budget for 2026
The Board unanimously approved the library's 2026 operating budget, totaling approximately $31.6 million across all funds. Chief Financial Officer Jeremie Stevens presented a new, comprehensive budget document featuring detailed charts and graphs that connect spending directly to the library's strategic plan pillars: storytelling, human connection, social justice, and sustainability.
The new format represents a significant step toward financial transparency. Both the budget spreadsheet and the new visual document are now available on the library website.
Looking ahead, Stevens noted that 2027 "is really looking like the right year" for a potential levy, though no formal decisions have been made.
Books and Brews Fundraiser Sets Record
The Friends Foundation of Worthington Libraries celebrated what appears to be their most successful Books and Brews event ever. Becky Princehorn reported preliminary results showing nearly $12,000 raised:
- Silent auction: nearly $4,000 from 36 of 37 donated items sold
- Ticket sales: just shy of $8,000
- Increased sponsorships compared to previous years
A surprise $2,000 gift card donation from "Six of One"—a group of Department of Defense colleagues who pool charitable giving—added to the success. One member, a Worthington resident, chose the library as his designated charity. Final numbers are still being tallied.
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Library Navigates Major Book Vendor Closure
Director Lauren Robinson addressed how the library is adapting to the nationwide closure of Baker & Taylor, one of the largest book distributors serving public libraries. The nearly 200-year-old company announced in October it would wind down operations by early 2026.
Robinson said Worthington Libraries had to cancel and re-place numerous orders but was able to pivot quickly thanks to an existing relationship with Ingram, another major distributor. While some libraries faced waitlists to become Ingram customers, Worthington was already established with the company.
The main operational change: Baker & Taylor had provided "shelf-ready" processing—stamps, stickers, and other prep work—before books arrived. Other vendors don't fully replicate that service yet, so more processing may shift in-house.
"We are able to still get books, so it hasn't been that massive of a hit because we were able to pivot quickly," Robinson told the board.
Union Contract Approved
Following an executive session, the Board unanimously approved Resolution 110725, accepting a proposed collective bargaining agreement with Worthington Public Libraries United (Ohio Federation of Teachers/American Federation of Teachers). The contract is contingent on ratification by union members.
No contract terms were discussed publicly during the meeting. Library Director Lauren Robinson is authorized to execute the contract once the union completes its ratification vote.
In Other News
Trustee Emma Mulvaney Reappointed: The Board voted to recommend current trustee Emma Mulvaney for a new four-year term (January 2026 through December 2029). This is the first appointment under the new four-year term structure approved earlier this year. The recommendation goes to the Worthington Board of Education for final approval.
Virtual Meeting Policy Adopted: The Board approved a new policy governing virtual and hybrid board meetings. While most meetings will continue in person, the policy establishes guidelines for when virtual meetings may occur. Major decisions—such as hiring a director, purchasing property, or placing a levy on the ballot—must be made in person. The policy also addresses public participation requirements for any virtual sessions.
October Programs Drew Strong Attendance: Director Robinson highlighted successful October programming:
- Pumpkin Parade: 318 costumed children and families
- Not So Scary Monster Bash at Old Worthington Library: 70 attendees
- Diwali celebration at Worthington Park Library
- Halloween STEM program: 42 attendees
- Saturday passport walk-in hours: 56 patrons served
Study Room and Meeting Room Usage Growing: Key performance indicators show continued growth in study room and meeting room reservations across all branches. Robinson noted the library has expanded meeting room access to individuals, not just nonprofits.
Investment Income Remains Strong: Despite the typical fourth-quarter slowdown in property tax revenue, the library generated approximately $61,000 in investment income during October. Stevens credited the library's partnership with Meeder Investment Management, which dates back to 2002.
Internal Controls Progress: The finance department has completed 32 internal documentation guides for various financial processes, ensuring cross-training and operational continuity.
Thanks for reading this summary of the Worthington Libraries Board of Trustees meeting. You can find board info and schedules on the Worthington Libraries website or watch meeting recordings online.