Yes, the latest version of ImageLibEx is 1.5, you can find the latest libraries and their version number here:
ttp://www.basic4ppc.com/forum/additional-libraries/3314-dll-version-listings-2.html
I have never made any speed tests between drawing directly onto the form's forelayer or onto the form with a Drawer object or onto a bitmap with a Drawer object and copying the bitmap onto the form background.
An advatage with the Bitmap is that you can use a bitmap bigger than the screen size and copy the desired part of it onto the form,'s background. But I don't know what would be the influence on speed.
Best regards.