Board of Trustees of the
Minutes of the Meeting of
November 14, 2007
The regular
meeting of the Board of Trustees was called to order at 5 p.m.
Trustee Chairman Dr. Darter, Gwen Becker, Julie Dickson and Bonnie
Long were present, as were Friends representative Miriam Hess, Interim
Library Director Leslie Stanton, and Library Director Jennifer Baker.
A motion to
approve the consent items was seconded and passed.
The minutes of the meeting of October 10 were approved.
Library Director’s Report.
Leslie reviewed pertinent items from
the prior month’s Friday Reports:
Technical training.
Trustees were
grateful for the detail provided concerning the numerous seminars and
training sessions completed by staff.
Leslie and Jennifer responded to Gwen’s specific questions concerning
search needs of teachers and students.
The directors stressed that technology will continue to change
rapidly, and that the library will be challenged to stay current and provide
appropriate services. For
example, Leslie proposes to create a “Leslie the Librarian” page on My
Space.
Monthly Movie Nights.
Leslie
reported that she previews the films for appropriate content, and is working
to resolve sound issues.
Maintenance report.
Carpets
are visibly cleaner and more attractive after the work by Stanley Steemer
during the Saturday closure; it is likely that rugs will be cleaned
quarterly henceforth so that deep and remedial cleaning is less necessary.
Attention to work orders continues to be timely, including lighting
and HVAC parts replacement (outside contractors.)
Air conditioning efficiencies were achieved in Randy’s equipment
room. Jim Haller trimmed
back the ivy. He was thanked by
Leslie for all the work he and his staff perform at the library; he and
James McKnight communicate to other city employees the importance of
attentive maintenance of this facility so important to residents and
patrons.
As this is Jennifer’s second day
on the job, she has principally been meeting staff and organizing her
office. She expressed gratitude
for Leslie’s assistance and is enjoying the assumption of her new
responsibilities.
Friends of the Library.
Miriam
reported that the board meeting of November 13 was an opportunity to meet
Jennifer. The membership kiosk
and other efforts are attracting new members (now 335.)
She has inquired of Jennifer whether volunteers are covered by city
insurance, and Bonnie suggested that the Redwood Empire Municipal Insurance
Fund be consulted. The Friends’
Holiday Party will be Thursday, December 13 – another opportunity to “Meet
the Director.” A donation to
the Friends will be forthcoming from the White Barn, proceeds of a lecture
by David Marsten.
Friends’ financial statements and tax returns were circulated and
approved.
Wine Library Association.
Julie reported
that Carolyn Martini will be taking charge of the NVWLA website, and that
the association during the winter months will conduct a planning session to
refine goals and assign responsibilities among board members.
Graphic designer Jim Cross will no longer produce the REPORT, but it
will continue to be written by Diana Stockton and a designer will be found
to continue the format made popular by Jim.
Historical Society.
Gwen reported
that the group is seeking a fundraising consultant to advance plans for a
St, Helena Public Library
Foundation.
Bonnie reported that Robyn Orsini is completed her meticulous work on
the final draft of bylaws, which will be available for review by trustees
and the director in December.
The meeting adjourned at 5:45
p.m.
Julie Dickson, recording
secretary