Minutes 04-28-10
BOYNTON BEACH CITY LIBRARY
ADVISORY BOARD MINUTES
April 28, 2010
The Advisory Board meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by Chair Jeannie
Taylor. New alternate member Laurie Sulzer was welcomed. All board members
were present with the exception of Dan Holthouse.
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as corrected (move the
sentence regarding the librarian candidate to the New Business section).
Correspondence: Dan Holthouse emailed the April minutes and stated that he
would not attend this meeting. Jeannie received the appointment letter for Laurie
and encouraged board members to help find another alternate candidate.
Chair’s Report: Jeannie shared the 2010 State of American Libraries report
published by the ALA. The board continued a discussion regarding the soaring
rate of library usage by Americans contrasted with the drop in library funding
sources due to the continued recession. Boynton Beach is experiencing the
same problem.
Unfinished Business: Library Director Craig Clark reported that $21 million was
restored to the state budget for “State Aid to Public Libraries.” This was a result
of a major grass roots lobbying effort spearheaded by the Florida Library
Association. He asked that board members follow up any calls and/or emails
they made with thank you notes. He noted that our share of the funds were to be
used to fund required computer upgrades.
Craig also reported that he was unable to fill the vacant librarian position due to
required cuts in the current year budget. Hiring is frozen due revenue shortfalls.
New Business: The 2010-2011 budget must be cut by at least 6% ($151k).
Craig reported that he is hoping to preserve the current level of operating hours.
The board discussed possible areas to conserve money including asking workers
to fund a small portion of their health insurance premiums.
Library Director’s Report: Craig distributed the March monthly report, which
showed record usage statistics during the month of March. He also reported that
the library café is beginning to gain momentum. The Palm Beach Post published
a nice article about the café. Board members also discussed usage of the self-
check machine. Of particular interest was whether patrons need more training in
how to use the machine.
The board also discussed current policies and procedures regarding banning of
books. The policy will be available at the next meeting to review for possible
updates. Board members restated their aversion to banning books and
materials. There is currently a pending request that is being handled according
to current policy.
Craig also reported that the April Earth Day exhibits were very well received.
The plumbing repairs are not completed but the public restrooms are now open.
The Mystery Tour was a big success and may be held again. A new mural will
be painted in the children’s reading room. The theme will be Reading Under the
Sea to complement the Mermaid bench.
The next board meeting will be Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at 4:00 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:55 p.m.
Valerie Pleasanton
Secretary