LIVINGSTON, La. – The Livingston Parish Library Board of Control unanimously approved a package of policy amendments and received a favorable report on the 2024 legislative audit.
The board’s most significant action was the approval of nine amendments covering key operational areas. Board Member Jonathan Davis presented the proposed changes, which included updates to purchasing and bidding procedures, employee leave policies, and harassment protocols.
Among the revisions were changes to the board’s committee bylaws, purchasing and contracting procedures, and career center operations, as well as updates to employee benefits such as annual leave, medical leave, and compensatory time. The board also adopted a new sexual harassment policy, contingent upon amendments to the existing harassment code.
Interim Administrative Librarian Kyla Webb reported strong participation in the 2025 Summer Reading Program, which recently concluded across all library branches. She said the program’s success comes as the library also began its promotions for September's Library Card Sign-Up Month, with statistics showing an increase in new registrations.
The library also announced its 10th Annual Book Festival, scheduled for Oct. 25, 2025. This year’s event will feature a renaissance theme and guest author Mari Mancusi, known for her fantasy novels.
Board President Jennifer Dorhauer provided updates on the future scope of board committees, while Davis reported progress on the Albany-Springfield Project through the Facilities Committee. Finance Committee Chair Patricia Wilson presented a financial report showing the library remains on solid fiscal ground.
Legislative Auditor Margaret Pritchard presented the completed 2024 Legislative Audit, which the board formally accepted. The report showed the library ended 2024 with about $19.5 million in total assets and $11 million in reserves. Auditors noted the system’s overall value dipped by about $650,000, largely due to a rollback in property tax millage that reduced revenue. Despite the drop, the library remains financially stable with little debt and strong reserves to support operations and future projects. The audit received an unmodified rating, the highest level, meaning auditors found the financial statements to be accurate and presented fairly, with no major issues.
Assistant Director of Support Services Julia Falcon updated the board on the Young Adult Review Project and Assessment, noting it is 95% complete. The remaining 5% consists of items marked as “lost” or not returned, which will be flagged for review if recovered.
Dorhauer also reported that the director search committee continues to make progress in identifying qualified candidates. In other action, the board agreed to explore seeking reimbursement from the Livingston Parish Council for legal fees tied to library matters, a proposal raised by Board Members Wilson and Trey Cowell.
