The Churchill County Library Board of Trustees accepted the resignation of board member Jessica Rowe on April 23 while reviewing programming updates, funding, and community engagement efforts.
During public comment, Library Director John Hong read Rowe’s resignation letter, in which she cited work obligations. “Serving on the Churchill County Library Board during the last two years has been such a meaningful and formative experience for me,” the letter read, “I am deeply, deeply thankful for the opportunity to learn alongside and from this remarkable community.”
The board also received updates on a $27,000 Library Services and Technology Act grant that was approved and will fund new shelving, display equipment, and other materials expected to arrive in May. Trustees additionally reviewed the library’s five-year plan, focusing on customer service, partnerships, education, responsible growth, and community awareness. Members agreed that the plan remains relevant and requested an agenda item to review the director’s evaluation process in the future.
Hong reported on expanded programming, introducing adult program librarian Magdalena Baer and highlighting author talks, adult craft events, science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) activities, and story times. He also noted ongoing facility improvements and plans to launch the Ancestry Library Edition database earlier than expected, with genealogy programming in development. Hong is also serving on the planning committee for a statewide library directors summit scheduled for May 13–15 at the University of Nevada, Reno’s Lake Tahoe Campus.
Trustees shared positive feedback on recent programs, including the “Bad Art” series and growing demand for game nights. Sari Koehler thanked the public for supporting the recent Meet the Director event.
Library staff also presented awards for the second annual bookmark design contest. All Churchill County School District schools, Oasis Academy, Logos Christian Academy, Veritas Preparatory School, Fallon Adventist Christian School, and the Naval Air Station Fallon Child Development Center participated. A new category was added this year for homeschool students and adult residents. Winning bookmarks are on display at the library.
The board approved the monthly budget report and library gift fund report for March 2026. Trustees also discussed whether the secretary position outlined in the bylaws is still necessary, given that minutes are now handled by county staff. Deputy District Attorney Cecilia Blue advised keeping the bylaws as-is, and the board voted to do so.
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