Rostraver library to add paid director
Changes are coming to Rostraver Public Library this year.
John Maisch, Rostraver Public Library board president, told township commissioners Wednesday more funding will be needed, but not from the township at this time. The township currently contributes $25,000 annually to the library.
For the past eight years, the library director, Ruth Ann Zupan, who retired in November 2015, did not receive any compensation from the library board. Maisch said Zupan received health insurance and a pension from her former job as a college professor. Since her retirement, the board needs to hire a paid director. The board is seeking a new director and hopes to fill the position by Nov. 1.
Maisch said the library will need more funding to account for the new library director’s salary and benefits. The current annual budget is $135,000, and Maisch expects that will increase by 25 percent.
In addition, the library was asked to coordinate the sharing of programs and handle public relations for the five libraries in Westmoreland County’s western area. The monthly publications will be provided by the county staff in Greensburg.
Maisch said the library is a community center that provides numerous programs for youth, seniors and all citizens of the community. Rostraver Chamber of Commerce holds its monthly meetings at the library.
Maisch said the board is committed to continue providing these programs for the community with the help of a new library director.
“We will keep the axle greased to keep moving along and get funding for our library,” he said.
Maisch said the first of many library fundraisers planned is a concert with Cahal Dunne, “Ireland’s Happy Man.” The event will be at the Rostraver central fire hall at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Coffee and dessert will be provided, but those attending can bring their own beverages and snacks.
• Commissioners scheduled budget meetings for 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18; Tuesday, Oct. 25; Tuesday, Nov. 1; and Tuesday, Nov. 15.
• Commissioners awarded the contract for the Orr Road culvert replacement to Morgan Excavating, LP, of Belle Vernon, the lowest responsible bidder at a total cost of $45,233. The project will involve culvert work, and ditch and stream bank improvements. The project will be funded with a grant through Westmoreland County Conservation District. The project is set to begin immediately and should be completed by December.
• Commissioners approved a motion for Rostraver Township to co-sponsor with the Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce and the Rostraver Lions Club the annual township Christmas celebration. The Christmas celebration will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at Rostraver Township Municipal Complex.