Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutAugust 1, 2012 APPROVED 9/5/12 COLUMBIA HEIGHTS PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MINUTES August 1, 2012 The meeting was called to order by Chair Patricia Sowada, at 6:31 p.m. Members present were: Nancy Hoium, Steve Smith, Patricia Sowada, Barbara Tantanella, and Catherine Vesley. Also present: City Council Representative Tami Diehm, Children’s Librarian Mai Kao Xiong, and Recording Secretary Stacey Hendren. Not Present: Renee Dougherty, Interim Library Director. The minutes of the July 3, 2012 Board meeting were approved as amended. The bill list dated 7/5/12 of 2012 bills was reviewed. It was moved, seconded, and passed that the bills be paid. The bill list dated 7/18/12 of 2012 bills was reviewed. It was moved, seconded, and passed that the bills be paid. Smith asked how books were selected for purchase. Xiong stated that standing orders for series, professional reviews, popular item lists, and other tools are used for selection. The 2012 accounting dated 8/1/12 was reviewed. The Board noted that the budget is at around 50% expended. Old Business: 1. Xiong updated the Board on the progress of the Library Task Force. A listening session was conducted on th June 25, with an excellent turn-out. The Task Force was divided into three subgroups with prepared questions to promote discussion. The locations subgroup discussed cost, the visionary potential, a library as a magnet for city growth, the relationship with ICS, and considerations security for youth and the elderly. The technology subgroup discussed the need for computer spaces, technical assistance, multi-lingual services through technology, Twitter, Facebook, and the Boopsie App through Anoka County Libraries. The types of space subgroup received several positive comments about current programming and staff. Other discussion included more aesthetics, a coffee shop, additional computers, and making the library a community center point. Vesley commented that possible problems with a coffee shop are that most business occurs from 6-9 am, when libraries are closed. A partnership would need to keep in mind the needs of the coffee shop, and keep it as a separate entity. Tantanella wondered how a coffee shop would benefit the library. Vesley stated that they would pay rent. Xiong stated that the relationship would need to be explored to understand the larger scope and logistics. Diehm stated that conversations in the past with Dunn Bros. and Starbucks have indicated that they are only willing to build on the inbound side of Central with a drive-thru. st The Library Task Force Survey ended July 21. Library staff is compiling data and will notify the Board of the results. Currently, over 200 surveys have been recorded. Sowada wondered what the general feeling of the surveys was. That information is not known at this time. Xiong stated that the Task Force is currently touring libraries and looking at comparables. 2. Becky Loader, retired Library Director, and Dougherty met with the Finance Director and City Manager concerning the 2013 proposed budget. The budget contains a request for additional shelving in the Children’s Department, and installation of a sump pump in the front stairwell. Walt Fehst, City Manager, is pursuing the possibility of having the sump pump installed in 2012. There were no other indicated changes. 1- 7/3/12 Smith wondered if the sump pump project would have to be approved by the City Council. Diehm stated that it depends on the total cost of the project. 3. The Library received 39 applications for the Library Page position, interviewed 6 applicants, and made 2 th conditional offers. Chelsea Koth and Asiya Hassan started training on July 27. The Board discussed the hours and duties of the Page position. Xiong highlighted the fact that Library Pages at Columbia Heights have more responsibilities and duties than in other library systems. New Business: 1. The June crossover statistics were reviewed by the Board. 2. The Board received the official notification as stated by Linda Magee concerning the status of the Library Director position. Preliminary reference checking was conducted on the finalists for Library Director, and after further communications with the candidates, it was mutually decided that neither one of the finalists are the appropriate fit for this position. If Board members have any questions, concerns, or comments they are directed to contact Fehst or Magee. The Board discussed their general feelings about the decision, the application process, and current staffing levels. 3. The Board reviewed the Unique Management Status Report for June. It was noted that the focus with the service is on getting materials returned. th 4. Dougherty and Xiong represented the Library at the Community Picnic on July 25. Forty-three adults and 55 kids visited the Library table. The Board discussed the park dedication, food, activities, and evening. Xiong commented on enjoying the opportunities to be out in the community, make connections, and see people. st The Board discussed the City Employee Picnic which took place on July 31. Items from the Floor: th 1. The Board was invited to the volunteer recognition on August 13. Nineteen Volunteens have donated over 200 hours per month this summer. A recognition party will take place at the Library at 6:00, followed by a 7:00 presentation at the City Council meeting at City Hall. Hoium asked how many children and teens are registered for the summer reading club. Xiong stated that over 1,000 have registered and that participation this year is the highest ever. 2. The Board was notified that the Library Foundation will hold their annual spaghetti dinner on Wednesday, th September 12, from 4:30-7pm. Tickets for the meal and raffle are now available. The Board thanked Mai Kao Xiong for her participation this evening. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Stacey R. Hendren Recording Secretary, Library Board of Trustees The City of Columbia Heights does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with disabilities to participate in all City of Columbia Heights services, programs, and activities. 2- 7/3/12