Public Statement on Theft of Library Funds

On July 17, 2025, Mid-Continent Public Library identified the misuse of public funds by an employee. The employee in question has been terminated and is no longer associated with the organization.

Upon learning of the misuse, MCPL took immediate action and contacted law enforcement to refer the matter for criminal prosecution. While staff have been working with authorities and legal counsel to take appropriate action and seek recovery of the funds, leadership have released limited information in order to avoid impeding an active investigation.

However, MCPL takes its fiduciary responsibility to its community very seriously and has a long history of sound financial stewardship with clean external audits every year. To ensure an incident of this nature does not occur again, staff are conducting a comprehensive review of internal controls and procedures and will be strengthening oversight measures to safeguard public funds.

We cannot provide additional details at this time, however, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity and accountability and will remain as transparent as possible with continual guidance from the authorities.