HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-23-2010 Regular MeetingFairhope Public Library
Board Meeting
February 23, 20 I 0
Present:
Justin Robertson, Amy Thompson, Freda Roberts ,
Director Tamara Dean and Fairhope City Council member Dan Stankoski
Meeting called to order at 5:45 pm
I . Minutes from January meeting approved and seconded.
2. Dan noted a leak in the computer room and questioned its status. Tamara noted
she had talked with the Mayor and Ken Eslava with the City was to handle
repairs . None of the electronic equipment has been affected.
3 . Lighting of the Library was discussed. Tamara noted that bulbs are expensive and
difficult to change . Current changes needed may demand $1000. The Library is
using the state bid list to achieve the most cost effective purchase price -
however some of the bulbs cost up to $50 each. City provides labor for changing
the bulbs.
4 . Dan explained the City's current revenue status . Sales tax collections are up
over projections, however every other revenue stream for the City is down.
This includes liquor taxes, property taxes , and utilities. Dan asked Tamara to
compile a list of needed building repairs and services needed to include details
such as HVAC belts and filters , lights etc.
5 . Tamara's Report:
a. Employee Report -Tamara was enthusiastic about the strong attendance
of staff in January with few sick days.
b. Circulation -at an all-time high . Since the Library opened in January of
2007, 22,579 new borrowers have taken out cards. Amy asked that we
determine how many new families that represents . Total circulation for
January was 18 , I 00, with a people count of 90 I on the busiest day . More
than 16,000 people came through the library and used the facility in
January -compared to 13,000 so far in February.
c. Financial Report -The Library has $23,000 in year to date income. Total
assets and liabilities stand at $IO 1,048 .
6 . The Holiday Tribute program was discussed. Tamara noted that once again the
program did not break even. Amy mentioned the view by the Board -led by
Martin -that the Holiday Tribute was primarily a PR and outreach effort by the
Library. With the Library Foundation now directing the handling and PR of the
Tribute program -perhaps awareness can be strengthened. Amy asked that
Tamara ensure an additional note of thanks is written to Frank Hollon on behalf
of the Library.
7 . The Fairhope Library Foundation is underway. The Board asked Tamara to
provide a full list of Foundation members. The Foundation Board has kicked off
its first official fundraiser -the April 30t h "Hoot Scoot", a new rendition of last
year's Book It "Prediction Run" SK.
8. Dan questioned when the bridge loan would be repaid. Board members Justin
and Amy noted that the board had previously discussed an expectation that the
City would "forgive" the bridge loan. Justin asked that Martin be queried on that
status as he had handled conversations on the bridge loan with the City. Justin
and Amy recommended Tamara review pledges made during construction and
initial fundraising to determine whether donors had indeed fulfilled their pledges.
Amy encouraged a letter be written to all previous donors noting the Library's
strong performance and remarkable circulation/borrower numbers since opening
-with a gentle encouragement that donors fulfill their pledges or consider an
additional gift.
9 . Tamara noted that interviewing for the Youth Services Director position is
ongoing. Eleven candidates have been reviewed so far, some by Skype
interactive/online camera. Four will be brought back for additional review with a
target of mid March to make the hire.
I 0 . A motion was made by Freda Ward and seconded by Amy Thompson that the
Board adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 6:42 pm .
Respectfully Submitted ,
Amy Greer Thompson
Fairhope Public Library Secretary