New Lenox Library Implements New Neonatal Leave and VESSA Protections for Employees

New Lenox Public Library District Board of Trustees Meeting | March 16, 2026

Article Summary:
The New Lenox Public Library District Board of Trustees gave final approval to two major personnel policy updates designed to support staff facing challenging personal circumstances. The Board formally added a Neonatal Policy to its employee handbook and updated its technology usage guidelines to comply with the state’s Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA).

Library Policy Updates Key Points:

• Neonatal Policy Enacted: The Board passed the second and final reading of an update to Personnel Policy 203, officially establishing a Neonatal Policy for library employees.

• VESSA Compliance: The Board approved updates to Personnel Policy 302 regarding Equipment, Email, and Internet Use, ensuring the language fully complies with VESSA protections.

• Financial Restructuring: The Board passed Resolution 26-1, dissolving the library’s Working Cash Fund and transferring those balances to the General Fund.

• Impact Fees Consolidated: Trustees also approved the closure of the 108A Village Impact Fee Account, transferring those funds into the General Fund.

The New Lenox Public Library District Board of Trustees on Monday, March 16, 2026, finalized a slate of personnel policy updates that significantly expand support and protections for library employees facing critical life events.

The Board passed the second and final reading of an update to Personnel Policy 203, which officially adds a “Neonatal Policy” to the library’s employee handbook. While the specific parameters of the leave structure were not detailed during the public meeting, the policy establishes clear guidelines for employees requiring time off or accommodations related to neonatal care.

In a parallel move to protect vulnerable staff, the Board also passed the second reading of an update to Personnel Policy 302, which governs Equipment, Email, and Internet Use. The policy language was specifically rewritten to align with the Illinois Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA). VESSA is a state law that provides vital employment protections and leave time for victims of domestic, sexual, or gender violence, ensuring they are not penalized for seeking safety or legal recourse.

In addition to the personnel policies, the Board utilized its consent agenda to streamline the library’s internal banking structures.

Executive Director Michelle Krooswyk reported that the administration is actively working to consolidate banking accounts for better efficiency. To that end, the Board unanimously approved Resolution 26-1, which formally abolishes the library’s Working Cash Fund. The account will be closed at the end of the fiscal year, and its remaining balances will be transferred directly into the General Fund.

Similarly, the Board approved the closure of the 108A Village Impact Fee Account. Krooswyk noted that this account will be closed at the end of April, with its funds also being transferred to the General Fund.

All four measures were passed collectively via the consent agenda on a 5-0 roll call vote, following a motion by Trustee Dr. Edward Tatro and a second by Vice President Michelle Monbrod. Secretary Erin Moncek was absent from the meeting.