(Cass Co.) The Cass County Library Association is requesting a three-percent increase in county funding to help support library services across the county.
The association presented its annual report and funding request to the Cass County Board of Supervisors Tuesday morning. Speaking on behalf of all Cass County libraries, Atlantic Library Director Michelle Andersen highlighted the many services libraries provide beyond books.
Andersen emphasized the collaboration among the county’s six libraries, which meet monthly to share resources, support one another and improve services. Joint efforts include Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the annual Cass County Reads program and training for local library trustees.
Andersen thanked county supervisors for their continued support, noting that libraries are especially important when household budgets become tighter and residents look for ways to save money.
She said borrowing books, accessing audiobooks and using library printing services can help families avoid additional expenses.
While library usage may increase as economic conditions become more challenging, Andersen said the cost of providing those services is also rising. The association is requesting a three-percent increase in library support across all six libraries to help maintain current services in the coming years.
The Supervisors took the funding request under advisement.
In other action, the Supervisors approved the resignation of Cass County Board of Supervisors Chairman Steve Baier, effective December 31, 2026. Baier was elected to Iowa Senate District 9 in the November 2026 General Election.
The Supervisors also approved a resolution certifying the results of the November 3, 2026, Cass County General Election and tabled a request to fill a vacancy for an Office Assistant position in the Treasurer’s Office.
