CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairman James Pavik at 5PM on Tuesday, July 12, 2022. In attendance was James Pavik, Carolyn Taylor, Nancy Fisher, Bette Dillehay. Alex Foster joined by Zoom. Joi Ball, President of the FOL was in attendance.
Bette Dillehay introduced the newest board member, Michael Miskovsky
The Scholarship presentation recipient, Desiree Dixon, was invited but didn’t attend the meeting. Bette gave the board members her qualifications and aspirations for the future.
Minutes of the May 10 ,2022 meeting were approved with corrections stated by Bette to be given to Dana. The motion was made by Nancy Fisher and seconded by Alexis Foster. The motion carried.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT: Operating expenses for the two -month period ending June 30, 2022, were $11,415.69. The report represents the conclusion of FY 2021-2022. Additional charges may be recorded for some accounts. To date, reimbursement received to the WiFi program total is $12,101.09 of the $18,495.75 provided by the Federal Emergency Connectivity Fund. Monthly charges average $1,500.
Total salaries paid out as of June 8. 2022 are $290,288 or 85.99% of the $337,602 allocated for FY21/22. Additional charges for the fiscal year will bring the expenses of the total salaries and related costs to $316,046. The number of active patrons stands at 10,376. The use of the conference rooms has increased due to remote work patterns. Off-site educational programs are being developed.
Carol Owens has returned as an employee. Jackie Craven, a weekend person has resigned. Duties have been adjusted under the present employees, but consideration is being given to replace Ms. Craven in a week-end position. Maude Donovan, head of teen services, completed an ALA –sponsored staff certification program in June 2022. She is designated by the ALA as certified library support staff.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Mathews library has been a fine-free library. After analysis of the circulation, number of overdue/nonreturned books and the impact of fees collected it is being recommended that we establish a permanent checkout policy that doesn’t include overdue fines. Replacement cost would still be charged for lost items. It is also recommended that we move forward with clearing of all existing overdue fines and remove the line item from the budget.
Summer program for adults and children have begun with a 50-person limit due to the continued presence of COVID. “Soothin Summer Sounds” by the Ambrosia Quartet on June 16th and Plunky and the Oneness is on July7th. Flunky’s program in part is funded by the VA Commission of Arts and the Friends of the Library. Beginning July 5th, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays the children’s program will be “Oceans of Possibilities” with lectures, Discovery Days and Creative activities. Wednesday is reserved for “Tales to be Told” for preschoolers through kindergarten. The library youth programs are totally funded by the Friends of the Library.
FOL President, Joi Ball, reported the Friends would meet on July 15th. She announced that a new mural has been painted on the entrance side of the book store. The friends were glad they could help underwrite the Summer Programs. In November they will have their General Meeting. The bookstore is now open 9:30am to 2pm on Saturdays.
OLD BUSINESS: The county approved the FY 22/23 budget. County employees receive a 5% increase. Bette will conduct a study of salaries at neighboring businesses and libraries. Building problems have not been addressed by the county, including roof leak and overhead of the back walkway. Bette suggested each member of the board give a supervisor a tour of the library facility. Bette will gather material and aid the trustees with information for their talks.
NEW BUSINESS: Wifi contract extension is anticipated being received as well as necessary funding. Our library has the necessary IT person to program the units for use which many libraries do not have available.
A framed certificate in recognition of her term on the board was given by the chairman to Bette to present Sue Jennette.
Meeting adjourned at 6:15pm the next meeting will be September 13, 2022
Transcribed from a recording, Colanne Bunting