REPORT TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mathews Memorial Library
Bette Dillehay, Director
January 10, 2023
The report that follows outlines current administrative matters and ongoing activities that occurred during the report period.
The staff was sorry to learn that James Pavik will no longer be serving as chair of the board of trustees. We wish him a happy and prosperous new year. We look forward to working with Ms. Taylor who will complete his term as chair.
Financial Report
Current Reporting Period
Information presented in the current financial report is a statement of resources and expenses for a two-month period ending December 31, 2022. Operational expenses for the report period totaled $24,965.68. The renewal of a number of online services, including those accessible by patrons, contributed to the charges incurred during the report period.
Salaries and Related Expenses
The amount budgeted for salaries and related benefits for FY 22/23 is $331,238 or $27,603 per month. A current financial activity report reflecting the amount spent as of December 31, 2022, has not yet been received.
State Aid
The Library of Virginia has announced that all public libraries receiving State Aid must submit data for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2022 no later than January 14, 2023 (an extended date). This extensive collection of data, in addition to other factors, is the basis for the library receiving State Aid funding. The report for Mathews Memorial Library has been submitted and is available for review at the library.
Patrons
The number of active patrons now stands at 10,623. In addition to circulation of materials (1,285) during the report period, many patrons (765) access books, music and movies through digital services subscribed to by the library.
Library Staff
Interviews are underway to select a youth services assistant who will be a part-time member of the staff. Numerous applications were received, and three were selected for interviews.
Each member of the staff deserves a special word of praise for their outstanding efforts during the holiday season. Together they succeeded in transforming the facility into a stunning holiday setting which was enjoyed by citizens and visitors.
Projects/Programs
Youth/Family Concert. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra horn quartet held a second youth/family concert at the library on Saturday, December 3rd. Funding was provided by the Community Foundation. The audience of about 30 included young and mature patrons. The library tagged the program “Classics and Cocoa,” offering cocoa and cookies baked by a member of Friends of the Library.
Deck the Halls. For twenty years, the library has joined with members of the community in the special holiday celebration unique to Mathews. This year was no different. The theme, “Capture the Magic,” included programs for young and old. A highlight was the performance of the Ambrosia Quartet, funded by the Friends of the Library. Equally popular was the special PJ story time sparked by a visit from Santa. The four programs that took place attracted by than 150 individuals.