Our Library Board Considers a Cost Savings, but our Executive Director won’t excuse herself
E.D. Brumett serves on the MOBIUS Board of Trustees. Why won’t she excuse herself from this discussion? Why won’t she recognize her conflict of interest?
Renee Gornell (Her previous legal name), Now Renee Brumett serves on the MOBIUS board
May 28, 2024
Library Board Trustees,
Today, we have a crucial decision regarding the future of our library's resource-sharing capabilities and financial stewardship. As public institutions, libraries must utilize taxpayer funds responsibly while maximizing value and services for our community.
The two main consortiums for interlibrary lending in Missouri are MOBIUS, geared towards academic libraries, and Missouri Evergreen, utilized by the majority of public libraries across the state. Missouri Evergreen's mission is "to strengthen and promote excellent library services through cost-effective resource sharing, cost savings, and member collaboration."[1]
According to Missouri Evergreen's FY2024 fee schedule [3], this consortium offers significant savings—libraries comparable to ours pay just $1,979 to $3,713 annually, while the estimated MOBIUS cost is around $12,000.[2] Over five years, the $40,000+ in savings with Evergreen could be reinvested into improving our facilities and services.
Not only is Evergreen more affordable, but its mission aligns with public library needs. Conversely, MOBIUS aims to absorb Evergreen members potentially, increasing costs for redundant academic services most patrons do not require.[2]
Missouri Evergreen has demonstrated sustainable growth, expanding from 4 libraries in 2012 to 65 systems and 175 branch locations today, including major systems like St. Joseph and Jefferson County.[1] This growth underscores its value proposition for public libraries.
Moreover, Evergreen provides robust resource sharing with 4.3 million sharable items, integrated library software tailored for practicality and efficiency, plus modern services like mobile apps, RFID, and curbside pickup.[1] These capabilities allow us to meet evolving patron needs cost-effectively.
Crucially, Missouri Evergreen receives technical support funding from the State Library, strengthening its resources and long-term viability.[1] Patrons already appreciate the expanded access, with one saying, "It opens up so much more information...it was a wonderful decision."[1]
We cannot overpay for superfluous services when our budget struggles to cover basic operational needs. Potential conflicts of interest must not sway this decision - our duty is to steward public funds while delivering exceptional library services prudently.[2]
The evidence clearly favors Missouri Evergreen as the wise financial choice, offering robust, affordable resource sharing tailored to public libraries. Let us seize this opportunity to optimize taxpayer resources and ensure sustainable, high-quality services for our community.
Thank you for your consideration. I welcome any further questions.
Sources:
[1] www.moevergreenlibraries.org
[2] https://hickchristian.substack.com/p/when-free-library-services-arent
Excellent points, David. I'm frankly surprised the board has not asked Renee to recuse herself from the conversation about MOBIUS.
Page 37 of the CCL policy manual states, "Finally, any voting interest a Trustee or employee of the Library may hold in the Board or governing body of any other organization, association, non-for-profit, union, corporation, or government entity that conducts any business, financial or otherwise, with Christian County Library (including Recognized Library Support Organizations such as the Christian County Library Foundation and Friends of the Christian County Library) must be disclosed to the Library’s Executive Director and its Board of Trustees. Those Trustees or employees holding such an interest shall be disqualified from voting on or participating in any decision making, contract negotiation, or purchasing for or on behalf of Christian County Library related to that organization or entity."