Library is described as 'alternative service agency' during annual report

Bollinger County seems to be full of avid readers. The library has 5,658 faithful patrons who came to the library 10,030 times throughout the past year to borrow books and use Wi-Fi, according to library director Eva Dunn, who presented the library's annual report Monday at the Bollinger County Commission meeting.

"Our people love the interlibrary loan program," Dunn said. Library patrons have access to 65 libraries in Missouri and have used the interlibrary loan 4,288 times in 2023, double the previous year's usage.

Patronage has shifted from individuals using the library's computers to them bringing in their own equipment and using the library's connectivity.

Companies and patrons were extremely generous with gifts of money, Dunn said. The library has received grants totaling $33,787.78, with $13,947.71 in COVID-related funds, $8,030,78 from state equalization funds, $9,165.51 in arts and education, and $2,643.78 from federal and local funds for literary programs.

"We also received $5,695.35 in local donations," Dunn said.

The total amount the library received, including other assorted sources, totals $227,867.92. Expenses totaled $179,659.38, leaving a net income of $48,208.54.

The most recent community project is one that is expected to help Bollinger County flourish -- the Mayfield Entrepreneurial Center on the long-unused third floor of the library building. Dunn said the Missouri Technology Center will manage the project, which is expected to be completed early next year, "and projects to start up 25 businesses per year and 60 jobs annually."

The library shares the project with Stan Crader, Ed Crowley, Penzel Construction, and Kansas City architect.

"I feel like the library is an alternative service agency," Dunn said. In addition to Mayfield Entrepreneurial Center, the library partners with the Workforce Development Center, Adult Learning Center, Broadband Committee, Bollinger County Health Center, SEMO Regional Planing, Family Services, and the Will Mayfield Foundation.

The Library Board is made up of Marci Upchurch, president; Donna Shell, vice president; Shelley Wilson, secretary; Amber Tucker, treasurer; and Anna Brown, member.

Staff includes Dunn; Joyce James, assistant director; Jeannie Layton, part-time tech services; and a new part-time employee, Sarah Shepard.