The LaSalle Branch Library is safe — at least until mid-2011, when the 2011 mid-year tax distribution will provide a clearer picture of the effects of the property tax caps and the new Local Option Income Taxes. A recommendation to keep the LaSalle Branch open will be made to the Members of the Library Board by Don Napoli, St. Joseph County Public Library Director and Debra Futa, the Library Assistant Director, at the next Library Board meeting on Monday, October 25. You can read Mr. Napoli's recommendation here: Download LAS_Recommendation_10-25-10
Among the reasons given for the proposal to delay the decision on the LaSalle Branch:
1. "Julie Hill, LaSalle Branch Manager, and her staff have done an outstanding job in making the branch more visible and vital to the community…"
2. "The LaSalle community and many community leaders, elected officials, groups and volunteers have taken very positive steps to get involved with the branch library and its staff…"
3. "Several elected officials have become involved in trying to find ways to keep the branch open and have encouraged the Library Board to do so. They have attended numerous public meetings, and have offered their support of the LaSalle Branch."
Congratulations to every one of you who played a role, whether large or small, in saving the LaSalle Branch from closure. But our work is not complete. In the immediate future, please try to attend next Monday's meeting of the Library Board, 4:15 PM, in the Humphreys Multimedia Room at the Lower Level of the Main Library, in Downtown South Bend. At that time, the Board will vote on the proposed budget for 2011 and are expected to discuss the recommendation for the future of the LaSalle Branch. You will have an opportunity to address the Board during the hearing of visitors. Whether or not you choose to speak at the meeting, your presence is important!