Oak Lawn Library Union Voices Concerns Over Potential Budget Cuts

Members of the Oak Lawn Public Library union plan to raise concerns at next week’s board meeting regarding a budget proposal they believe could lead to layoffs. During the meeting on October 20, library board members discussed three draft budgets with proposed property tax increases of 2.5%, 3.5%, and 4.5%. However, they could not agree on the amount to increase taxes.

Karrie Mallo, a newly elected board member, inquired about potential staff reductions. This proposal came after an initial motion to approve the 4.5% levy increase, which would minimize cuts. Ultimately, Mallo requested maintaining the current budget to avoid raising taxes. With board member Raymond Schwarzkop absent, Carrie O’Keefe and Joseph Skibinski supported Mallo’s decision for no tax increase, while Kate McDermott, Heather McCarthy, and Kim Brightmore opposed it.

Carla Williams, a library union staff representative who attended the meeting, expressed disappointment over the conversation about cutting personnel, emphasizing that libraries offer more than just books and provide valuable services to the community. The lack of response from board members and a spokesperson for the library, who declined to be interviewed, further intensified the union’s concerns.

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31 members back the 4.5% levy increase. This increase would cost the average homeowner around $10 but would still require cuts in areas such as library furnishings, equipment, staff development, security systems, local history, and legal fees. With the 3.5% increase, costing about $8.02 per homeowner, and the 2.5% increase costing less than $6, similar reductions are anticipated. The draft budget indicates a need to cut materials by $50,000 and programming by $6,300 if the levy increase does not exceed 3.5%.

Williams voiced concerns about the negative impact of reducing materials and programming costs. She noted that it might affect patrons who rely on the library for resources they cannot afford elsewhere. The financial burden on individuals due to the rising cost of living could further increase dependence on library services.

Leona Towner, a freelance journalist and Oak Lawn resident, highlighted the board members’ unexpected discussions on social media. After reaching out to those favoring a 0% budget increase, she received no response. Towner expressed fear that without press coverage, crucial library resources might be cut at the upcoming meeting.

A special meeting of the Oak Lawn Public Library Board is scheduled for November 9 to pass the 2027 budget and tax levy increase. Williams urged library patrons to attend and voice their support for essential programming and staff services.