The Yorkton Public Library is getting a new microfilm reader.
And it is being paid for out of recently discovered funds.
“In summer of 2015 it was discovered that the Yorkton Public Library had a bank account at the CIBC in the amount of approximately $76,000,” said Shannon Bell, Director of Finance, with the City at the regular meeting of Council Monday.
In terms of funding “The City of Yorkton provides the building and equipment for the Parkland Regional Library to operate out of. All expenses relating to the maintenance of the building and equipment are the responsibility of the City of Yorkton,” said Bell.
“The programming of the Library is under the direction of the Library Board members as appointed by City of Yorkton Council.”
The dollars in the account were not known.
“In the past the revenue has been deposited by the Library in this CIBC account. Some expenses such as the photocopier lease and large equipment purchases have been made using this account. The revenue collected and the expenses paid through this account have not been included in the City of Yorkton’s operation as we were unaware of the bank account,” said Bell.
City Committees and Boards are not permitted to hold bank accounts out of the control of the City of Yorkton.
In October 2015 the account was closed out and the balance of the account was transferred to the City of Yorkton and set aside in a reserve account for the library. The total of the reserve as at December 31, 2015 was $76,164.04.
Bell said the account was a source for funds for the new microfilm reader.
“The Library is currently in need of a new microfilm reader as its current one is old and needs replacing. The Chief Librarian presented 3 quotes to the City’s Library Board at their April 19, 2016 meeting. On May 19, 2016 the Board held an email vote in favor of purchasing the new microfilm reader. The Board is requesting that the equipment be purchased using the funds that were transferred to the City last year,” said Bell.
“The quote that was selected amounts to $11,235.00 plus taxes and annual support from Ristech Information Solutions Ltd.
“As this purchase is not a part of the 2016 capital budget and the Library is asking to access a reserve account, we are seeking Council’s approval for this transaction.”
Council unanimously supported the request.
