Pioneer Memorial Library Trustees Review Renovation, Plan 100th Anniversary
December 16, 2025
The Pioneer Memorial Library Board of Trustees conducted its regular monthly meeting on December 16, approving several routine items while also reviewing the successful completion of recent renovation work and discussing plans for the library’s upcoming 100th anniversary celebration this spring.
The meeting opened with approval of the consent agenda, including a review of the library’s financials. During the discussion, board member Kyle raised questions regarding balances appearing in specific accounts. Library staff explained the discrepancies stemmed from the way QuickBooks was pulling certain reports, particularly related to carryover funds and equipment expenses. Staff indicated the issue had already been identified and corrected, and the board expressed confidence that the underlying financial data remained accurate.
Under old business, the board received an update on the library’s recent renovation project. Trustees were informed that all construction expenses have been fully paid, with the project finishing early and approximately $16,000 under budget. That remaining balance will be carried forward and applied to a future library project. While the main renovation is complete, staff noted there may still be minor additional expenses related to exterior elements of the building, including training and fine-tuning for the newly installed sidewalk heating system.
The board also discussed progress on landscaping and the outdoor fountain area. Tree stumps have been removed, and preliminary work has been done to evaluate options for restoring the fountain itself. However, staff explained that ongoing hard water issues continue to cause deterioration. Until a solution is identified to provide softer water to the fountain, any repairs would likely be temporary. Library representatives are awaiting further information from Culligan regarding potential water treatment options, and as a result, the fountain project was tabled for the time being.
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Another facilities-related discussion focused on a planned basement project. Before work can proceed, decisions must be made regarding appropriate acoustic or wall treatments to ensure the space meets program and usage needs.
New business centered largely on preparations for the library’s 100th anniversary, which will be celebrated in March. The library was officially established as a public library in 1926, with its current building becoming the library’s home in 1998. Planning for the milestone event is already underway. Staff outlined a two-day format, with a Friday evening adult-focused celebration featuring live music by Peter Fletcher, followed by a Saturday designed for family engagement with multiple activities and programs.
As part of the Friday event discussion, the board considered whether a cash bar should be allowed during the after-hours celebration. Trustees discussed the appropriateness of alcohol at a library event, noting the distinction between regular library hours and a ticketed, evening celebration aimed at adults. Following discussion, the board approved a motion allowing Library Director Melanie to seek approval from the Colby City Council to include alcohol service at the event, provided it operates under proper licensing and guidelines.
Additional new business items included approval of the 2025 Generally Accepted Accounting Principles waiver, acceptance of a staff resignation, and approval of a bank resolution authorizing the financial institutions the library will work with in the coming year. The board also approved the trustee meeting calendar for the upcoming year.
In her director’s report, Melanie reflected on what she described as a phenomenal year for the library, citing the successful renovation, strong community response, and continued program growth. She shared plans to introduce a new bingo night for children in the coming months, expanding youth engagement opportunities.
With no further business to address, the board adjourned the meeting, looking ahead to a busy and celebratory year as Pioneer Memorial Library approaches its centennial milestone.