Urbana Library Board Outlines Next Steps

The Urbana Free Library’s Board of Trustees has outlined its next steps following Thursday night’s public meeting about the handling of book-culling by library executive director Debra Lissak

In an email, Board President Mary Ellen Farrell said the board has halted all weeding activities and shipping of materials off library premises.

She said the board is also re-opening its strategic planning process, and ordering Lissak to explore the feasibility of televising future board meetings. Results of this feasibility study will be presented at the board’s next regular meeting on July 9.

“We are encouraged that people are involved and share our love and concern for Urbana Free Library,” Farrell said. “We’ve heard you, and the Board is in the process of addressing the issues you have raised over the last week. To protect the privacy of individuals, please respect our process and understand that we are taking steps. As we make progress we will keep you informed.”

Last week, it was revealed that several non-fiction shelves were left nearly bare by book-weeding. Some people have called for Lissak’s dismissal.