By JIM BUTLER

The Rapides Parish Library ended 2022 with a net position of $19.3 million, about $11 million of which is unrestricted in its use.

Auditors in their recently released report note the Library Board has earmarked about $900,000 for automation expenses in a system that includes seven locations in addition to the main library on Washington Street.

The library’s base financing is a 7.08-mill property tax which generated about $7 million in 2022. It was a half-mill when supporters passed the first levy in 1942.

Shortly thereafter, some readers will recall, a small space of volumes tucked on an upper floor of the courthouse launched the system.

In 1965 the downtown building opened.

A $2 million growth in the system’s net position last year is attributed to favorable financial trends and intentional working to provided financial reserves.

Payroll and benefits, $3.43 million, accounted for the lion’s share of $5.58 million in expenses. Materials and supplies accounted for about a half million.

The balance sheets show about 59 percent of the system’s unrestricted assets is available to meet ongoing obligations.

As required by law, the audit reports Director Celine Reese-Harper’s compensation. Her base salary was $99,569 in the audit year.

No material weaknesses were noted in the library accounting practices.