Illinois Library Association
Vol. 6, Issue:  33| November 11, 2013

Group Purchasing Update: Libraries of Illinois Risk Agency (LIRA)


As libraries continue to try to maximize their collective purchasing power, they've discovered that this is not just about shared catalogs and e-books. Many public libraries already participate in health insurance pools, and ILA has been exploring the formation of a pool for member libraries to provide other types of insurance.  Fifty-two libraries have submitted their requirements and received quotes, which were presented at two meetings held on October 29 and 31 at the headquarters of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

 

"ILA's leadership in this project provides a long term benefit for public libraries as we struggle to balance administrative costs with the increased demand for services and resources," said Jill Rodriguez, director of the Bensenville Community Public Library District.  "The concept of a pooled, self-funded insurance program has been proven to be an effective way to contain costs and still provide adequate coverage for our libraries."

 

Based on past premiums and claims, the 52 libraries considering membership in the pool paid $1.4 million in premiums against an average of $127,000 in claims--that's nearly $1.25 million in insurance company profits that could be returned to libraries.  Further, by buying in bulk, individual libraries will typically see both reduced costs and improved coverage immediately.

 

The 52 libraries are all eligible for membership based on the current quotes with a goal of forming the Libraries of Illinois Risk Agency (LIRA) by December 31, 2013.  While the lead time is tight for library boards to make a decision, there's a case to be made for acting as quickly as possible. Some legislative changes in how pools are governed will take effect after the first of the year, and the premium quotes are time-sensitive.

 

"Like many libraries, our rates have been going up each year, even with no claims.  We will see significant savings by joining the LIRA pool.  I hope more libraries join the pool to further our purchasing power," said Jeannie Dilger, director of the La Grange Public Library.

Concealed Carry Official Signage

 

Concealed Carry Prohibited Area Sign

 

Libraries or any other statutorily prohibited area or private property, excluding residences, where the owner prohibits the carrying of firearms must clearly and conspicuously post the Illinois State Police approved sign, in accordance with Firearm Concealed Carry Act, at the entrance of the building, premises or real property.  The sign can be downloaded from the state police website and there are specific requirements for its posting. Click on the link below to download a template of the approved sign.

 

Concealed Carry Prohibited Area Sign (PDF)  

2014 Advocacy Calendar

   

It's not too early to get key library advocacy dates on your calendar for 2014. Here goes:

  • February 14: South Suburban Breakfast, Lockport
  • February 14: West Suburban Lunch, Oak Brook
  • February 17: North Suburban Breakfast, Buffalo Grove
  • February 21: Metro East Breakfast,  Edwardsville

These FOUR Legislative Meet-Ups in February will give us an opportunity to talk with members of the Illinois General Assembly, and if your library isn't covered by one of these regional meetings, think about setting up a visit with your legislators around the same dates.  

 

Register at www.ila.org/advocacy/24th-annual-library-legislative-events 

 

 

 

May 5 & 6: 

National Library Legislative Day in Washington,DC

 

We know this trip to our nation's capital is a major commitment of time and resources, but it remains an important way for libraries to be heard on the national stage.  ILA will reserve a block of rooms and assist in coordinating appointments with members of the U.S. Congress.  Details will be announced as our delegation forms in early 2014.

In the News 
Library-related stories appearing in local news media are reflected in this section of the ILA E-Newsletter.  The intent is to alert and inform the Illinois library community about issues and events that are considered significant by the general media.  
   
$6 Million Tune-up Planned for Harold Washington Library
To read the story, please click here.  
 
Creepy NU Archive Unveiled
To read this story, please click here.

Maywood Library Closed Due to Lack of Funds
To read this story, please click here.

Westmont Library Director Resigns After 12 Years
To read this story, please click here.

Forest Park Library Open to Maywood Residents
To read this story, please click here.

Downers Grove Library Increases Pay Ranges

To read this story, please click here.

In Newest Porn Debate, Orland Park Library Pleads the First Amendment
To read this story, please click here.

Battle of Orland Park Library's Internet Porn Policy Heats Up
To read this story, please click here.

Little Free Library: 'Take A Book, Leave a Book' Movement Catching
To read this story, please click here.

Lake County Library Leader:  'Polygamy Will Be Next'
To read this story, please click here.

Ela Library Rated One of the Best in the Nation
To read this story, please click here

Aspen Drive Library Being Eyed for Expansion in Vernon Hills
To read this story, please click here.

Library Takes Second Look at Porn Policy
To read this story, please click here.  

If your library has a newspaper story with link, send it to us at [email protected] for possible inclusion in the next ILA E-Newsletter.  Thanks.
Sincerely,
 

Robert P. Doyle
Illinois Library Association

 

Call One is ILA's newest affinity partner, providing telecommunications discounts to ILA members and supporting the association.   

Call Bill Mayer at 312-496-6695 or please click here to e-mail Bill for more information today!

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CALENDAR
November 23-24, 2013 
Chicago Toy & Game
The Games for Educators Conference

December 20, 2013

Deadline for February issue of the ILA Reporter.

Guidelines for Submissions to the ILA Reporter.
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