Board accepting applications for position through June 1
After almost two decades of service, Milan Public Library Board Treasurer Darlene Helzerman has stepped down, leaving an opening on the library board.
The board is accepting applications through June 1 to fill her position, which runs through Dec. 31, 2028.
“She was an always-dedicated board member and treasurer who kindly and wisely managed our complex finances,” said Library Board President Larry Biederman. “Even when her own personal life was super busy, she always made sure the library’s needs were supported.”
Biederman said that preference will be given to applicants with financial expertise who can serve as treasurer, the role Helzerman held during her tenure on the board. That could mean a CPA or other professional experience, or volunteer service as treasurer or in a similar role, he said.
The Milan Public Library employs a controller and bookkeeper, while the board treasurer provides financial oversight.
The treasurer duties include:
- Reviewing financials monthly and discussing them at bi-monthly board meetings
- Becoming a signer on the library checking account and serving as second signatory on checks
- Completing bank reconciliations and responding to the bookkeeper with approval
- Working with the library director, bookkeeper and controller on the annual budget; and
- Assisting with the annual audit, if needed.
The board meets every other month and meetings typical last about 90-minutes, Biederman said.
Applicants must attend the Tuesday June 23 board meeting to be considered and must be registered voters in the city of Milan since the library’s millage funding comes soley from city residents.
Helzerman joined the board in 2007 and said serving the library was rewarding because she could support programs and resources that brought the community together.
“From youth reading programs and fun ideas like ‘Blind Date with a Book’ for Valentine’s Day, to lending puzzles and cake pans, the library became so much more than just books,” Helzerman said. “I was proud to be part of a board that collectively helped stretch every dollar to maintain the building, provide computers and internet access when resources were scarce, and keep the library a safe and welcoming place for the community.”
Interested candidates should send a letter of intent and resume/credentials summary to Larry Biederman, Milan Public Library, 151 Wabash St., Milan MI 48160 or by email to [email protected].
Applications must be postmarked or emailed by Monday, June 1, 2026.
At the last election, two new board members were added to the library board. The board is now hoping to appoint someone to fill the seat vacated by longtime Treasurer Darlene Helzerman.
114 North Main St Suite 10 Chelsea, MI 48118
