Board of Trustees
Pat Cagney, President
Erica Harris, Vice-President
Maria Salinas, Secretary
Marta Rodriguez, Treasurer
Nick DePetris, Board Member
Ana Espinoza, Board Member
Claudia Flores, Board Member
Angela Kuczak, Board Member
Amelia Plunk, Board Member
Contact the Board by email: libraryboard@berwynlibrary.org
BOARD OF TRUSTEE
BY-LAWS
ARTICLE I – GENERAL
Section 1 – Legal Basis and Authority
The Berwyn Library Board of Trustees is established in accordance with the Illinois Compiled Statutes (75 ILCS 5/4). The Board exercises, as an exclusive right, the approval and authority over all duties and powers authorized by law of the State of Illinois. This Library shall be governed by a Board of nine trustees appointed in accordance with Illinois State Library Law and City of Berwyn Ordinances. Terms shall be three years each with reappointment at the mayor’s discretion for an additional three year term. The Trustee shall receive 30 days notification prior to their termination.
Section 2 – Authority of Individual
Board members have authority only when acting as a Board in legal session. No member of the Board shall at any time act or purport to act on behalf of, or in the name of, the Board, except when such statement or action is in pursuance of specific instruction of the Board.
Section 3 – Authority to Conduct Business
No business shall be conducted by the Board except at a regularly scheduled meeting, executive session, special meeting or committee meeting. Meetings will be scheduled and conducted in accordance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Section 4 – Duties and Responsibilities of the Board
The Board’s responsibility is to provide vision and direction that result in excellent library services to the residents of Berwyn. To this end, the Board will: Determine the mission of the Berwyn Public Library; Establish long-range goals; Employ a qualified director to manage library operations and evaluate the performance of the director annually; In conjunction with the Library Director, develop and approve the annual budget proposal to be submitted to the City for the ensuing year and advocate for necessary funding to provide services; In conjunction with qualified library staff, develop and approve policies that result in effective and efficient operation of the Library; Authorize expenditures in the implementation of services and programs; Participate in training activities on current and emerging issues in library service and legislative action affecting libraries; Communicate with governmental officials and the general public.
Section 5 – Ethical Conduct
The Board endorses the American Library Association Ethics Statement for Public Library Trustees and agrees to abide by its provisions.
Section 6 – Board Continuity
The Berwyn Library Board recognizes that it is a continuing body and assumes all policies, regulations and rules of the preceding Board and continues them in effect until such time as they are revised or rescinded.
ARTICLE II – BOARD ORGANIZATION
Section 1 – Elected Officers
The officers of the Board shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer. Each officer shall be elected for a term of two (2) years. No person may stand for election to the same office without an intervening term having transpired except by unanimous consent of the Board.
Section 2 – Duties of Officers
All officers shall perform such duties as are normally associated with their office or as may be assigned by the Board. Specifically: A. President shall preside at all Board meetings and appoint all standing or special committees. B. Vice-Presidentshall perform the duties of the President in the absence of the President, or the President’s inability to act. In the absence of the President and Vice President, the Board shall appoint a president pro tem. C. Secretary shall maintain records in compliance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act and assume responsibility for archiving such materials. D. Treasurer shall review all payment vouchers, chair the Finance Committee and maintain the Board fund.
Section 3 – Executive Committee
The officers of the Board shall constitute an Executive Committee, which shall act on behalf of and at the direction of the Board between meetings. Actions of the Executive Committee will be subject to ratification by the Board at its next meeting.
Section 4 – Elections
In the month of June in each even-numbered year, the Library Board will nominate and vote on new officers. Notices of the June meeting shall announce the election. In the event a Board member leaves the Board prior to the completion of their term, a special election may be held at the next meeting to fill the vacancy according the Roberts Rules of Order.
Section 5 – Board Consultants
The Board may appoint an attorney and/or any other consultant as the Board deems necessary, in accordance with regular and customary regulations of the City of Berwyn. These appointees shall serve at the behest of the Board.
ARTICLE III – MEETINGS
Section 1 – Notice of Meetings
The calendar of regular Board meeting dates is set annually. Notice and conduct of all Board and committee meetings shall comply with the provisions of the Illinois Open Meetings Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. All meeting notices will be posted as required by law (5 ILCS 120/2/02)
Section 2 – Special Meetings
Special meetings of the Berwyn Library Board may be called by the President, or by any three (3) members of the Board by giving notice thereof, in writing, stating the date, time, place and purpose of the special meeting. Notice shall be personally delivered to all Board Members forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting and shall be posted All meeting notices will be posted as required by law (5 ILCS 120/2/02)
Section 3 – Preparation for Meetings
The agenda for the meeting shall be the mutual responsibility of the Library Director and the President. Board Members may introduce agenda items through the Board President or Library Director prior to the preparation of the written agenda (usually one [1] week prior to the scheduled monthly meeting).
Section 4 – Quorum Requirements
A quorum is a majority of the total number of members appointed to the Board. A quorum must be physically present not only to begin a meeting, but also at the time the vote is taken on a proposition. If a quorum is not present, the meeting must be suspended.
Section 5 – Order of Business
The Order of Business normally shall be as follows: 1. Call to Order & Roll Call 2. Approval Of meeting minutes 3. Open Forum 4. Director’s Report 5. Committee Reports 6. Unfinished Business 7. Closed Session as needed 8. Adjournment Members of the public may address the Board during the Open Forum session. Individuals are expected to identify themselves by full name. Public comments must pertain to an item on the agenda or to an issue that is relevant to the Board’s work. Comments by members of the public will be limited to three (3) minutes. The President of the Board of Trustees retains the right to stop any speaker who raises issues that are not on the agenda or are not relevant to the duties of the Board.
Section 6 – Parliamentary Procedures
Robert’s Rules of Order (Revised) shall govern the procedure in conducting all meetings of the Board, unless in conflict with the laws of the State of Illinois.
Section 7 -- Closed Session
Participation in Closed Sessions of Regular or Special meetings shall be limited to members of the Board. Invitation to participate may be extended to other individuals for any reason, but must be named in the motion to convene the closed session.
Section 8 – Biennial Organizational Meeting
A biennial Organizational Meeting of the Board shall be held in June during even numbered years. Preparation will begin in May with the distribution of a Board self-assessment instrument. In even-numbered years, the June meeting will include the election of officers. The Old Board then will adjourn and the New Board will reconvene to conduct the reorganization.
Section 9 – Remote meeting participation
Per the Open Meetings Act provisions, members may attend meeting remotely provided a physical quorum is present if a member is prevented from physically attending because of: 1. Personal illness or disability 2. Employment purposes or the business of the public body 3. Family or other emergency The remote member must notify the Board President of his or her physical absence in advance, unless impractical, and a majority of the Board then approves allowing the remote member’s participation by video or audio conference. (ILCS 120/7)
Section 10 – Annual Report
The Director will collaborate with an ad-hoc Annual Report Committee to produce an annual report that will be presented to the Mayor and City Council as well as made available to all Berwyn residents.
Section 11 – Member Absences
The Board depends on members’ active participation. Members are expected to attend regular meetings, and they should notify the President or Director in advance of any meeting they are unable to attend. If a Board member does not wish to continue serving, a written resignation should be sent to the Mayor and President of the Board. The Board shall set policy regarding absences. Whenever any Trustee dies, becomes mentally incapacitated, ceases to be a legal voter in the district, is convicted of a crime, refuses or neglects to take oath of office, or refuses or neglects to perform the duties of office, or attend three regularly scheduled Board meetings, or for any other reason specified by law, then the office of said Trustee may be declared vacant by the Board. The Board will request that the vacancy be filled by appointment within thirty (30) days and submitted for ratification.
ARTICLE IV – COMMITTEES
Section 1 – Standing Committees
There shall be four (4) standing committees. Their terms of service shall be for one (1) year and/or until their successors are appointed. Standing committees shall include: A. Finance Committee which shall present a report of the Library’s bank accounts to the Board and, with the Library Director, develop an annual budget for presentation to the City. B. Policy and Personnel Committee which shall include the Library Director as an exofficio member. The Committee shall review, propose or amend any policies pertaining to the administration of the Library. C. Building, Grounds and Furnishings Committee which shall be responsible for the oversight of repair, alteration and furnishing of the building and maintenance of the grounds. D. Art Committee which shall be responsible for enhancing the visual literacy and enriching the lives of the community.
Section 2 – Special Committees
Special committees may be formed as needed and appointed by the President. Special committees, such as the Veverka Committee, shall serve until the completion of the work for which they were appointed.
Section 3 – Terms of Service
Committees shall be constituted and priorities established at the biennial Board Organizational Meeting. The action of all committees shall be subject to Board approval or authorization.
Section 4 –Committee Advisors
Members of the community at large will be invited to participate in Board committees in an advisory capacity. Any Board member may nominate city residents, and a simple majority of members must ratify these citizen advisors. Each advisor will be paired with a sitting committee member for orientation. Community resident terms of service will not exceed 12 months, renewable by majority vote. Continued service will be at the behest of the Board.
ARTICLE V – LIBRARY ADMINISTRATION
Section 1 – Library Director
The Library Director shall have sole responsibility of the administration of the Library under the direction of the Board. The Library Director shall be responsible for overseeing the daily maintenance of the building and equipment, the efficiency of the Library’s service to the public, and care and operation of the Library under the financial conditions set forth in the annual budget.
Section 2 – Personnel
The Director shall be responsible for hiring, directing, supervising and disciplining of all staff members in accordance with City of Berwyn human resource protocol and AFSME.
Section 3 – Bids
The Library Director, acting under the direction of the Board, is the only authorized person to order supplies, materials and equipment or to initiate bid processes. All purchase of goods, materials and services shall be in accordance with the amount authorized by city ordinance.
Section 4 – Board Attendance
The Library Director shall attend Board meetings and present for the Board’s approval a monthly report of progress of the Library, bills incurred and a statement of receipts and expenditures from fines and damages.
ARTICLE VI – ADMINISTRATIVE RECORDS
Section 1 – Record Retention
Administrative records of the Library shall be kept and shall be available to the public upon request. These shall include monthly and annual reports of the Library, all financial reports, minutes of public Board meetings and actions and other items as the Board or Library Director shall file there.
Section 2 – Confidentiality
Circulation records and other records identifying the names of Library users with specific materials are hereby recognized as confidential. Access is not to be granted to the public, the press or any agency of state, federal or local government except pursuant to process, order or subpoena authorized under the authority of federal or state law relating to civil, criminal or administrative discover procedures or legislative investigative power.
ARTICLE VII – AMENDMENTS
Section 1 – Amendments
These By-Laws may be altered, amended or repealed by a majority vote of the Board at a regular meeting. Any alterations or additions shall be effective at the time of a majority vote of the Board.
These by-laws are to be reviewed annually in January by the full Board of the Library
Revised June, 1995
Revised November, 1999
Revised December, 2003
Revised October, 2005
Revised June, 2007
Revised October, 2013
Revised and approved August, 2019
Revised June 21, 2021
Revised May 16, 2022
Revised June 21, 2022
2026 Agendas & Minutes
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Berwyn Public Library Fund Committee Meeting on Monday January 19, 2026, at 6:15PM in the Library Board Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Open Forum
4. Finance – Donations to the BPL Fund
5. Illinois Funds
6. Marketing – Draft donation letter
7. Other business
8. Adjournment
Any individual requiring special accommodations as specified by the American with Disabilities Act is requested to notify the Berwyn Public Library Administration Department at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting date
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Policy and Personnel Meeting on Monday January 19, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Library Board Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Open Forum
4. Review of minutes November 17, 2025
5. Review policies a. Circulation Policy b. Program Contract c. Dress Code
6. Job description
7. Other Business
8. Adjourn
Any individual requiring special accommodations as specified by the American with Disabilities Act is requested to notify the Berwyn Public Library Administration Department at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting date
Berwyn Public Library
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING
City of Berwyn Library Board Monday January 19, 2026 The Berwyn Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a Regular Meeting on January 19, 2026, in the Library Board Room. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m.
- Call to Order
- Roll Call
- Pledge of Allegiance
- Approval of Board Meeting Minutes
- Open session October 20, 2025
- Open session November 16, 2025
- Open Forum
- Public comments and Correspondence
- Board comments
- Director’s Report (Informational - Acceptance)
- Strategic Planning worksheet 2025 & 2026
- In-Service day
- Finance Committee (Rodriguez)
- Financial Reports
- Approval of November 2025 Payables (roll call vote)
- Approval of December 2025 Payables (roll call vote)
- Berwyn Public Library Restricted Grant Funds Balance
- Berwyn Public Library Deposit Fund Balance
- Berwyn Public Library Fund Balance
- Illinois Funds Balance
- Treasurer’s Report (Informational – Acceptance)
- Approval of minutes November 17, 2025
- Financial Reports
- Building and Grounds Committee (Plunk)
- Approval of minutes October 20, 2025
- Policy/Personnel Committee (DePetris)
- Approval of minutes November 17, 2025
- Approval of revised Circulation policy
- Approval of Program Contract
- Approval of Dress Code
- Approval of job description
- Berwyn Public Library Fund (Espinoza)
- Approval of minutes September 15, 2025
- Special Committee (Harris)
- Friends of the Library
- Old Business
- Unfinished Business
- New Business
- Days Closed calendar 2026
- Approval of Library Facilities Assessment
- Adjourn to Closed Session
- Closed Session under ILCS 5 120/2C (1) To consider appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance matters or dismissal of an employee; (C) (5) To discuss intergovernmental contract negotiations; and (C) (21) To discuss minutes of meetings lawfully closed.
- Adjourn from Closed session
- Reconvene to Open Session
- Possible action as a result of items discussed in closed session if necessary.
- Schedule of Committee Meetings
- Finance
- Policy & Personnel
- Building & Grounds
- Berwyn Public Library Fund
- Special Committee
- Adjournment
Next regularly scheduled Berwyn Public Library Board Meeting is on Tuesday February 17, at 7:00PM
Any individual requiring special accommodations as specified by the American with Disabilities Act is requested to notify the Berwyn Public Library Administration Department at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting date
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Building and Grounds Meeting on Tuesday February 17, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Library Community Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Open Forum
4. Facility Assessment
-
- Circulation Desk update
- Priorities
- Phasing
5. Capital Reserve fund
6. Adjournment
Berwyn Public Library
Meeting Minutes of the Policy & Personnel Committee
Berwyn Public Library
Library Board Room, 2701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn IL 60402
Tuesday, Febuary 17, 2026 6:45PM
Present: Trustee Pat Cagney, Trustee Nick DePetris, Trustee Marta Rodriguez, Director Tammy Sheedy, Trustee Maria Salinas, Trustee Angela Kuczak, Trustee Amelia Plunk, Trustee Claudia Flores, Trustee Erica Harris
Trustee Nick DePetris called the meeting to order at 6:46pm.
- Open Forum: Trustee Plunk shared a question from a community member about being unable to reserve a study room on a day-of basis. Director Sheedy indicated that any staff member should be able to place a same-day reservation for an individual study room and said she would follow up internally on the issue.
- Review of Minutes November 17, 2025: Minutes were reviewed and sent to the full Board for approval as amended after correcting the attendees.
- Review of Computer and Internet Access Policy: The trustees reviewed the policy. Director Sheedy noted that the policy content had not changed, but the document had been condensed to remove redundancy and duplication. Minor edits were discussed, including capitalization and punctuation. The policy was sent to the full Board for approval as amended.
- Job Description: The committee reviewed the Associate Director job description. Discussion included adding standard language such as “other duties as assigned,” educational requirements for a future pathway to the director role, experience in unionized environments, and clarifying benefits language. The draft was forwarded to the full Board with revisions.
- Review approval dates and formatting of policies: The committee discussed standardizing policy review timelines, identifying which policies should remain internal staff documents rather than appear on the public website, and aligning public-facing policies with the formatting and style of the library’s new website. The committee also discussed bringing a set of non-substantive formatting updates for bulk approval at a future meeting.
- Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:07pm.
Berwyn Public Library
Berwyn Public Library Board Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Regular Meeting
Berwyn Public Library
Board Room
Call to Order:
President Cagney called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m.
Secretary Maria Salinas called the roll. Board Trustees present: President Pat Cagney, Vice-President Erica Harris, Treasurer Marta Rodriguez, Secretary Maria Salinas, Trustees Nick DePetris, Claudia Flores, Ana Espinoza, Angela Kuczak and Amelia Plunk.
A quorum has been established.
The pledge to the flag was recited.
Minutes:
It was motioned by Trustee Plunk and seconded by Trustee DePetris to approve the Open Session Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 19, 2026 as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Open Forum:
President Cagney opened the meeting for Open Forum.
Public Comments
There were none presented.
Correspondence
An email was received from Christine Lojewski talking about the mini-golf event and said there were 155 attendees. She was thankful to all the attendees, and some wrote nice thank you notes on the table cloths.
Board Comments
Vice-President Harris commented on teen programs hosted by Alana. She said there were 5 attendees and noted it was impressive that she continues to host and gave kudos to her.
Trustee DePetris concurred with Vice-President Harris. He visited the library with his family on Sundays and noted the attendance is good. He also talked about the golf event and said it was a wonderful event as always and liked seeing staff and community enjoy the event. He also liked that there is a “kid librarian of the month” as noted in the director’s report.
Trustee Espinoza noted that the attendance on Sundays is really good. She also thought it was a good idea for the library to be open on President’s Day.
Directors Report:
Library Director Sheedy provided the following update and events from her monthly report.
- Strategic Planning Updates – Continues to be underway and the new website is almost completed. Patron Point is up and running. The patron satisfaction survey is underway and will be going out.
- IPLAR – Annual Report has been completed by the library.
- Local Authors’ Event - Planned for early May and all tables have been filled and had to turn people away. It has become a very popular event.
- Year in Review – A review showing what all departments have done or accomplished during the year and how the budget monies have been used. The Trustees really liked the report and noted it was very informative, a nice snapshot of library’s happenings. It was suggested that this report can be used as the library’s “Annual Report” which can also be shared with the city. It was also noted that it will be posted on the website.
- In-Service Day – Scheduled for April 28, 2026
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Kuczak to accept the Director’s Report as informational. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Finance Committee
Treasurer Rodriguez reported on the payables for January 2026 which were presented in the amount of $31,201.37.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee DePetris to approve the January 2026 payables in the amount of $31,201.37 as presented. Roll Call: President Cagney, Vice-President Harris, Treasurer Rodriguez, Secretary Salinas, Trustees DePetris, Flores, Espinoza, Kuczak and Plunk. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Treasurer Rodriguez reported that the Library Restricted Grant Funds balance ending January 31, 2026 was $360,327.19; Berwyn Public Library Fund balance (formerly Endowment Fund) ending January 31, 2026 was $347,305.01; Berwyn Library Deposit Fund balance ending January 31, 2026 was $229,275.33; and Illinois Fund Account balance ending January 31, 2026 was $1,681,776.13.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Espinoza to accept the Treasurer’s Report as informational. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Treasurer Rodriguez reported that a portion of monies from the Berwyn Public Library Fund will be moved to the Illinois Fund Balance account.
It was motioned by Treasurer Rodriguez and seconded by Secretary Salinas to approve the Finance Committee Minutes of November 17, 2025 as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Building and Grounds Committee
Trustee Plunk reported on the plans for the renovation of the library. She indicated that they would use the $50,000 from the Per Capita grant. Some money has been earmarked for shelves and movers. There was a quote of $ 25,000.00 for the shelves and the movers quote was still pending.
Trustee Plunk also reported on the planned play area as part of the facilities assessment. She disseminated some pictures from other libraries who have play areas. She talked about the wish list versus top priority list.
Trustee Plunk reported on the boiler issue at the library. They will be looking into the possibility of having it replaced.
Policy/Personnel Committee
Trustee DePetris reported that the committee did meet and requested approval for the Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes of January 19, 2026. He also noted that a policy and a job description were reviewed and recommended for approval as noted below.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Secretary Salinas to approve the Policy/Personnel Policy Committee Minutes of January 19, 2026 as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Secretary Salinas to approve the Associate Director Job Description as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Trustee Plunk to approve the Computer and Access Policy as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Berwyn Public Library Fund (formerly Endowment Fund)
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Treasurer Rodriguez to approve the Berwyn Public Library Fund Committee Meeting Minutes of September 15, 2025. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Trustee Espinoza reported that she will have the donation document reviewed and send to the attorney for a final review.
Special Committee
There was no information to report.
Friends of the Library
Library Director Tammy Sheedy reported that the minutes from the last meeting was in their packet.
She indicated that there are new officers and there is a date change for the Gail Lofgren fundraiser. She also reported that they are trying to host their own family game night.
Old Business:
There was none to report.
Unfinished Business:
There was none to report.
New Business:
Library Days Closed Calendar for 2026
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee DePetris to approve the Library Days Closed Calendar for 2026 as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to approve the Facilities Assessment as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Adjourned into Closed Session
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee DePetris to adjourn into Closed Session at 8:02 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
- Closed Session under ILCS 5 120/2C (1) To consider appointment, employment, compensation,
discipline, performance matters or dismissal of an employee; (C) (5) To discuss intergovernmental
contract negotiations; and (C) (21) To discuss minutes of meetings lawfully closed.
Adjourned from Closed Session
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Kuczak to adjourn from closed session at 8:33 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye: Nays: None. Motion carried.
Reconvene to Open Session
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Espinoza to reconvene to Open Session at 8:34 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye: Nays: None. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee Plunk and seconded by Trustee DePetris to approve the Closed Session Minutes of January 19, 2026 as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Committee meetings:
Finance:
The Finance Committee was not scheduled, to be advised.
Policy and Personnel:
The Policy and Personnel Committee Meeting was scheduled for March 16, 2026 at 6:45 p.m.
Building and Grounds:
The Building and Grounds Committee Meeting was scheduled for March 16, 2026 at 6:15 p.m.
Berwyn Public Library Fund:
The Berwyn Public Library Fund was not scheduled, to be advised.
Special Committee
The Special Committee was not scheduled for March 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
President Cagney announced the next regularly scheduled Berwyn Public Library Meeting is on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Adjournment:
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Kuczak to adjourn the meeting at
8:36 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Berwyn Public Library Fund Committee Meeting on Monday March 16, 2026, at 6PM in the Library Board Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Open Forum
4. Name change
5. Donation site on website
6. Other business
7. Adjournment
Any individual requiring special accommodations as specified by the American with Disabilities Act is requested to notify the Berwyn Public Library Administration Department at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting date
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Building and Grounds Meeting on Monday March 16, 2026 at 6:15 PM in the Library Community Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Open Forum
4. Facility Assessment
-
- LFI Quote
- Hallett
5. Sundeck
6. Capital Reserve fund
7. Adjournment
Berwyn Public Library
Meeting Minutes of the Policy & Personnel Committee
Berwyn Public Library
Library Board Room, 2701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn IL 60402
Monday, March 16, 2026 6:45PM
Present: Trustee Pat Cagney, Trustee Nick DePetris, Trustee Marta Rodriguez, Director Tammy Sheedy, Trustee Maria Salinas, Trustee Angela Kuczak, Trustee Amelia Plunk, Trustee Claudia Flores, Trustee Erica Harris
Trustee Nick DePetris called the meeting to order at 6:52pm.
- Open Forum: There were no public comments during open forum.
- Review of Minutes February 17, 2026: Minutes were not available and were tabled.
- Review policies for website: The committee reviewed a first batch of public-facing policies that had been reformatted and edited for publication on the new library website expected to launch in late April. Discussion noted that the changes were primarily formatting, punctuation, capitalization, wording, and accessibility-related updates needed to fit the website design and improve ADA compliance. The committee discussed the goal of presenting policies directly on the website rather than as PDF links, and also noted that only patron-facing policies would appear on the public website, while staff-facing policies would remain internal. Additional policies will be reviewed at the next meeting, including a small number requiring more substantive discussion. The policies in this batch were approved to move forward. The committee discussed recognizing the staff involved in the website project in some way.
- Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:03pm.
Berwyn Public Library
Berwyn Public Library Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, March 16, 2026 Regular Meeting
Berwyn Public Library
Board Room
Call to Order:
President Cagney called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Secretary Maria Salinas called the roll. Board Trustees present: President Pat Cagney, Vice-President Erica Harris, Treasurer Marta Rodriguez, Secretary Maria Salinas, Trustees Nick DePetris, Claudia Flores, Angela Kuczak and Amelia Plunk. Absent: Ana Espinoza
A quorum has been established.
The pledge to the flag was recited.
Minutes:
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to table the Open Session Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 17, 2026. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Open Forum:
President Cagney opened the meeting for Open Forum.
Public Comments
There were none presented.
Correspondence
Library Director Sheedy received an email from the Berwyn Development Corporation asking about recognizing Nora Laureto for her contributions in honor of Women’s History Month.
There were also some emails from Jessica Mason and Angie Anaya thanking the library staff and kudos for great work.
Board Comments
Vice-President Harris thanked Trustees Plunk and DePetris for their commitment and informative meetings and being very involved with the library outside of the regular meetings. She also said she attended the Silent Book Club and crafts and said it was well attended and the staff were great and welcoming.
Trustee Plunk talked about Hoopla and said that you can take crafty classes through this program and you can learn how to sew. She noted it was great that the library has these resources.
Directors Report:
Library Director Sheedy provided the following update and events from her monthly report.
- Strategic Planning Updates – Continued to move along, the translation committee is researching options for proper translation. The new website is coming along and making progress with the calendar that will facilitate all scheduling. An update of the implementation of the strategic plan will be provided at the April meeting. The Trustees discussed implementing a tracking system for the Strategic Plan to see the progress. Also reported were the checkout surveys that have started, including a QR code that is posted as you walk into the library. She noted that they have received a lot of feedback.
- Trustee Banquet – Laconi Trustee Banquet will be in April 17, 2026 for those interested in attending.
- Gail Lofgren Fundraiser is scheduled for October 2026.
- In-Service Day – Scheduled for April 28, 2026, HR Source will provide training for staff.
- Facility assessment progress – The cutting of the shelves was discussed and a quote was received. The estimate for the movers is still pending.
- Hoopla – Due to increasing costs, purchasing of titles will be reduced from 8 to 6 a month.
- Cook County Grant – Received $2, 000.00 to add more hot spots.
- EV Charging Station - Weather permitting, installation of 1 or 2 charging stations will be on March 17, 2026. They will be located in the main parking lot.
- Changing of banks – Library will be moving accounts from Byline Bank to Capital Bank.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to accept the Director’s Report as informational. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Finance Committee
Treasurer Rodriguez reported on the payables for February 2026 which were presented in the amount of $45,211.97.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by President Cagney to approve the February 2026 payables in the amount of $45,211.97 as presented. Roll Call: President Cagney, Vice-President Harris, Treasurer Rodriguez, Secretary Salinas, Trustees DePetris, Flores, Kuczak and Plunk. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Treasurer Rodriguez reported that the Library Restricted Grant Funds balance ending February 28, 2026 was $363,838.15; Berwyn Library Deposit Fund balance ending February 28, 2026 was $731,350.73; Berwyn Public Library Fund balance (formerly Endowment Fund) ending February 28, 2026 was $348,146.68 and Illinois Fund Account balance ending February 28, 2026 was $1,686,672.48.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee DePetris to accept the Treasurer’s Report as informational. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Building and Grounds Committee
Trustee Plunk reported the committee did meet and requested approval of the minutes.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Vice-President Harris to approve the Building and Grounds Committee Minutes of February 17, 2026 as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Trustee Plunk reported on the Building and Grounds tracker spreadsheet she created for all library projects, wish list and priority list.
It was motioned by Trustee Plunk and seconded by Secretary Salinas to approve the quote from Library Furniture International in the amount of $24,973.93 as presented. Roll Call: President Cagney, Vice-President Harris, Treasurer Rodriguez, Secretary Salinas, Trustees DePetris, Flores, Kuczak and Plunk. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Trustee Plunk reported that the boiler plan is still being discussed for the possible options of replacements and what would be more feasible for the library. She also reported that Library Director Sheedy is still in the process of obtaining quotes for the ramp and roofing.
Policy/Personnel Committee
Trustee DePetris reported that the committee did meet.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Secretary Salinas to table the Policy/Personnel Policy Committee Minutes of February 17, 2026. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Secretary Salinas to approve the website-related formatting and grammar changes for policies: Notary Public Service Policy, Library Resources and Services for Minor, Credit/Debit Card Usage Policy, Collection Management Policy, Confidentiality of Library Records and Computer and Internet Access Policy as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Berwyn Public Library Fund (formerly Endowment Fund)
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to table the Berwyn Public Library Fund Committee Minutes of September 15, 2025. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
There was a discussion of a new committee name.
Special Committee
There was no information to report.
Friends of the Library
Library Director Tammy Sheedy reported that the minutes from the last meeting were in their packet.
Old Business:
There was none to report.
Unfinished Business:
There was none to report.
New Business:
Vice-President Harris talked about National Library Week and what the Trustees can do for staff once this year’s week for this event is known.
Adjourned into Closed Session
It was motioned by President Cagney and seconded by Secretary Salinas to adjourn into Closed Session at 7:54 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
- Closed Session under ILCS 5 120/2C (1) To consider appointment, employment, compensation,
discipline, performance matters or dismissal of an employee; (C) (5) To discuss intergovernmental
contract negotiations; and (C) (21) To discuss minutes of meetings lawfully closed.
Adjourned from Closed Session
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to adjourn from closed session at 8:43 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye: Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Reconvene to Open Session
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to reconvene to Open Session at 8:43 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye: Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to table the Closed Session Minutes of February 17, 2026. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Committee meetings:
Finance:
The Finance Committee was not scheduled for April 20, 2026 at 6:45 p.m.
Policy and Personnel:
The Policy and Personnel Committee Meeting was scheduled for April 20, 2026 at 6:15 p.m.
Building and Grounds:
The Building and Grounds Committee Meeting was not scheduled, to be advised.
Berwyn Public Library Fund:
The Berwyn Public Library Fund was scheduled for April 20, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. to be advised.
Special Committee
The Special Committee was not scheduled, to be advised.
President Cagney announced the next regularly scheduled Berwyn Public Library Meeting is on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Adjournment:
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee DePetris to adjourn the meeting at
8:47 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Berwyn Public Library Fund Committee Meeting on Monday April 20, 2026 at 6PM in the Library Board Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
- Call to Order
- Roll Call
- Open Forum
- Name change
- Donation site on website
- Other business
- Adjournment
Any individual requiring special accommodations as specified by the American with Disabilities Act is requested to notify the Berwyn Public Library Administration Department at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting date.
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Policy and Personnel Meeting on Monday April 20, 2026 at 6:15 PM in the Library Board Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
- Call to Order
- Roll Call
- Open Forum
- Review of minutes February 17, 2026
- Review of minutes March 16, 2026
- Review policies for website
- Review policies
- Code of Professional Conduct
- Information Services Policy
- Other Business
- Adjourn
Any individual requiring special accommodations as specified by the American with Disabilities Act is requested to notify the Berwyn Public Library Administration Department at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting date
Berwyn Public Library
Meeting Minutes of the Finance Committee
Berwyn Public Library Monday, April 20, 2026
Present: Board President Pat Cagney, Director Tammy Sheedy, Trustee Marta Rodriguez, Trustee Erica Harris, Trustee Angela Kuczak, Trustee Nick DePetris, Trustee Maria Salinas, Trustee Ana Espinoza, and Trustee Amelia Plunk.
Trustee Marta Rodriguez called the meeting to order at 6:49.
Marta ran through the roll call and opened to any comments for Open Forum, of which there were none.
We reviewed the Budget Performance Report for the fiscal year through 3/31/26. Nothing has been recorded for revenues yet but that is not unusual for this time of the year. Everything appeared in line with what was budgeted and we are even spending less than what was budgeted for.
We then talked about the upcoming switch of banks for the Library accounts, from Byline Bank to Capital Bank. The city is trying out multiple banks in the area for different departments to see what they like, and we are going with Capital Bank since there is a location close by the library and because of service concerns with previous bank. Additionally, we are being offered a higher rate for deposits at Capital Bank.
There was no new or other business.
Marta adjourned the meeting at 6:58.
Berwyn Public Library
Berwyn Public Library Board Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 20, 2026 Regular Meeting
Berwyn Public Library
Board Room
Call to Order:
President Cagney called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Secretary Maria Salinas called the roll. Board Trustees present: President Pat Cagney, Vice-President Erica Harris, Treasurer Marta Rodriguez, Secretary Maria Salinas, Trustees Nick DePetris, Ana Espinoza, Angela Kuczak and Amelia Plunk. Absent: Trustee Claudia Flores.
A quorum has been established.
The pledge to the flag was recited.
Minutes:
It was motioned by Trustee Plunk and seconded by Trustee Kuczak to approve the Open Session Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 17, 2026 as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Trustee Plunk to approve the Open Session Minutes of the Regular Meeting of March 16, 2026 as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Open Forum:
President Cagney opened the meeting for Open Forum.
Public Comments
Allison Caldwell, spoke on behalf of “It Take a Village-Berwyn” and commented on how she has had difficulty to access space and wanted clarity on the policy for using the community room for meetings or events to host events or workshops. She noted that she has been unable to meet the requirements for using the space because they don’t have “not for profit” status. She also noted their organizations meet the library’s mission for inclusive and diversity.
Ed Olson commented and echoed what Ms. Caldwell said, about using the community room and not being able to use the meeting rooms at the library because the organizations they have do not have a “not for profit” status. President Cagney noted that the policy has been changed and the library did give an award to Bungalo last year. There was a lengthy discussion about the use of the community room and that the library has been aware.
Correspondence
There was none presented.
Board Comments
President Cagney asked the Trustees to support the Friends of the Library fundraiser at Carbone’s on April 21-22, 2026.
Trustee Plunk said she attend the Ghoul Gang book club and noted that John runs a good group. It was super diverse group with lively conversation.
Treasurer Rodriguez said she has friends who attend the storytelling time and they enjoy it.
Vice-President Harris said she read an article about “Finding your Joy “and recommended it to the Trustees. She also thanked all the library workers.
Maria Lupercio, Circulation Services Manager, shared the results about the survey and said it was going well. There was a drawing at the end of the month for a $10.00 gift cards for completing the survey.
Directors Report:
Library Director Sheedy provided the following update and events from her monthly report.
- In-Service Day – Scheduled for April 28, 2026, HR Source will provide training for staff and also a training by the Berwyn Fire Department will be provided. Logistics for the day were provided to highlight the times for the training session times, lunch and awards for the staff.
- Best of Berwyn Dinner – May 13, 2026, will have a table for the Library for Trustees who are able to attend.
- Senior Center – Using remainder of program money for Agility Class on Fridays. The program will run through the end of June.
- Strategic Plan – Chart in the board packet highlighting the goals that have been and are in the process of being accomplished. The Trustees appreciated the chart as presented in the board packet.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Espinoza to accept the Director’s Report as informational. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Finance Committee
Treasurer Rodriguez reported on the payables for March 2026 which were presented in the amount of $70,631.91.
It was motioned by Treasurer Rodriguez and seconded by Salinas to approve the March 2026 payables in the amount of $70,631.91 as presented. Roll Call: President Cagney, Vice-President Harris, Treasurer Rodriguez, Secretary Salinas, Trustees DePetris, Flores, Kuczak and Plunk. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
Treasurer Rodriguez reported that the Berwyn Public Library Restricted Grant Funds balance ending March 31, 2026 was $364,615.29; Berwyn Library Deposit Fund balance ending March 31, 2026 was $736,179.93; Berwyn Public Library Fund balance (formerly Endowment Fund, now is Legacy Fund) ending March 31, 2026 was $348,908.80 and Illinois Fund Account balance ending March 31, 2026 was $1,692,090.05.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to accept the Treasurer’s Report as informational. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Building and Grounds Committee
It was motioned by Trustee Plunk and seconded by Secretary Salinas to table the Building and Grounds Committee Minutes of March 16, 2026 as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Policy/Personnel Committee
Trustee DePetris reported that the committee did meet.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Vice-President Harris to approve the Policy/Personnel Policy Committee Minutes of March 16, 2026 as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Secretary Salinas to table the Reapproval of Code of Professional Conduct Policy. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Trustee Plunk to approve the Reapproval of Information Services Policy as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Trustee DePetris and seconded by Trustee Espinoza to approve the Policy Formatting for Website per ADA Ordinance. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Berwyn Public Library Fund (formerly Endowment Fund)
Trustee Espinoza said the committee did meet. They discussed using some of the monies for outdoor space and were waiting on architectural plans.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee DePetris to strike the Berwyn Public Library Fund Committee Minutes of September 15, 2025, as they were approved on February 17, 2026. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Espinoza. Motion carried.
There was a discussion of a new committee name.
It was motioned by Trustee Espinoza and seconded by Treasurer Rodriguez to approve the Committee name change from Berwyn Public Library Fund to Legacy Fund. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Special Committee
Vice-President Harris read a brief statement from one of the teachers that she works with. It highlighted on the Book Club that started in the fall of 2025. She thanked the library for allowing them to build this club. This statement was from Katie Collins, ESL Teacher at Pershing School.
Friends of the Library
Library Director Tammy Sheedy reported that the minutes from the last meeting were in their packet. Also, as President Cagney reported earlier, the Friends are having a fundraiser at Carbone’s on April 21-22, 2026. The Gail Lofgren Fundraiser is tentatively planned for October 2, 2026 and noted that Sarah will work with Joe Vallez for the space at the North Berwyn Park District.
Old Business:
There was none to report.
Unfinished Business:
There was none to report.
New Business:
Trustee Plunk discussed having a suggestion box for library staff to give feedback.
Adjourned into Closed Session
It was motioned by Trustee Espinoza and seconded by Trustee DePetris to adjourn into Closed Session at 8:11 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
- Closed Session under ILCS 5 120/2C (1) To consider appointment, employment, compensation,
discipline, performance matters or dismissal of an employee; (C) (5) To discuss intergovernmental
contract negotiations; and (C) (21) To discuss minutes of meetings lawfully closed.
Adjourned from Closed Session
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to adjourn from closed session at 8:43 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye: Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Reconvene to Open Session
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee DePetris to reconvene to Open Session at 8:43 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye: Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Treasurer Rodriguez to approve the Closed Session Minutes of February 17, 2026 as presented. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Plunk to approve the Closed Session Minutes of March 16, 2026 as amended. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
Committee meetings:
Finance:
The Finance Committee was not scheduled, to be advised.
Policy and Personnel:
The Policy and Personnel Committee Meeting was not scheduled, to be advised.
Building and Grounds:
The Building and Grounds Committee Meeting was scheduled for May 18, 2026 at 6:15 p.m.
Legacy Fund:
The Legacy Fund was not scheduled, to be advised.
Special Committee
The Special Committee was not scheduled, to be advised.
President Cagney announced the next regularly scheduled Berwyn Public Library Meeting is on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Adjournment:
It was motioned by Secretary Salinas and seconded by Trustee Kuczak to adjourn the meeting at
8:46 p.m. All Trustees present voting aye. Nays: None. Absent: Trustee Flores. Motion carried.
________________________ Maria Salinas, Secretary
Berwyn Public Library
Notice of Committee Meeting
The Berwyn Library Board will hold a Building and Grounds Meeting on Monday May 18, 2026 at 6:15 PM in the Library Community Room, 2701 S Harlem Avenue.
- Call to Order
- Roll Call
- Open Forum
- Outside Building Tour
- Remote HVAC access
- Other business
- Adjournment
Berwyn Public Library
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING
City of Berwyn Library Board Monday May 18, 2026 The Berwyn Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a a Regular Meeting on May 18, 2026, in the Library Board Room. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m.
- Call to Order
- Roll Call
- Pledge of Allegiance
- Approval of Board Meeting Minutes
- Open session April 20, 2026
- Open Forum
- Public comments and Correspondence
- Board comments
- Director’s Report (Informational - Acceptance)
- Strategic Planning workplan 2026
- In-service day survey
- New website
- Summer Reading Kick-off event June 6, 2026
- Finance Committee (Rodriguez)
a. Financial Reports
-
-
- Approval of April 2026 Payables (roll call vote)
- Berwyn Public Library Restricted Grant Funds Balance
- Berwyn Public Library Deposit Fund Balance
- Berwyn Public Library Fund Balance
- Illinois Funds Balance
-
b. Approval of minutes – April 20, 2026
c. Treasurer’s Report (Informational – Acceptance)
- Building and Grounds Committee (Plunk)
- Approval of Minutes March 16, 2026
9. Policy/Personnel Committee (DePetris)
a. Approval of minutes April 20, 2026
10. Berwyn Public Library Legacy Committee (Espinoza)
a. Approval of minutes April 20, 2026
11. Special Committee (Harris)
12. Friends of the Library
13. Old Business
14. Unfinished Business
15. New Business
16. Adjourn to Closed Session
a. Closed Session under ILCS 5 120/2C (1) To consider appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance matters or dismissal of an employee; (C) (5) To discuss intergovernmental contract negotiations; and (C) (21) To discuss minutes of meetings lawfully closed.
17. Adjourn from Closed session
18. Reconvene to Open Session
19. Possible action as a result of items discussed in closed session if necessary.
20. Approval of closed minutes
21. Schedule of Committee Meetings
- Finance
- Policy & Personnel
- Building & Grounds
- Berwyn Public Library Legacy
- Special Committee
Next regularly scheduled Berwyn Public Library Board Meeting is on Monday June 15 at 7:00PM
22. Adjournment
Any individual requiring special accommodations as specified by the American with Disabilities Act is requested to notify the Berwyn Public Library Administration Department at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting date
