JOHNSTON LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MINUTES

 June 23, 2011

The Johnston Public Library Board of Trustees met for a regular meeting at 5:30 pm on Thursday, June 23, 2011 in the Archive Room. Present were Shirley Weuve, Dennis Schuessler, Alex Johnston, Heather Schmitz, Taena Fowler, Director Willona Goers and Assistant Director Maurine Myers.

Approve Agenda

Dennis Schuessler moved approval of the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Heather Schmitz and unanimously approved.

Citizen Comments

• A 3rd grader sent a letter asking some questions about the Library for a school assignment.
• Notes from the suggestion box included a request that the bike rack be relocated closer to the front door or a security camera be installed to deter theft; another requested removal of the bump-outs from the Circulation desk.
• A thank you was received from a staff member in appreciation of the recent raise announcement.

Meeting Minutes 

Dennis Schuessler moved approval of the minutes.  The motion was seconded by Heather Schmitz and unanimously approved.

Approve bills

Library claims for the month total $18,772.45 with city back charges of $4,920.20.  Dennis Schuessler moved approval of the bills.  The motion was seconded by Heather Schmitz and unanimously approved.

Election of Board Officers for FY11/12

Dennis Schuessler moved approval of the slate of officers: President-Alex Johnston, Vice President-Heather Schmitz and Secretary-Taena Fowler.  Shirley Weuve seconded and the motion was unanimously approved.

Appointment of Johnston Public Library Foundation Representative for FY11/12

Dennis Schuessler moved that Taena Fowler be appointed Board representative to the Johnston Public Library Foundation.  The motion was seconded by Heather Schmitz and unanimously approved.

Budget and Finance

• As of May 31, 2011, total expenditure was $982,384.78.  Spending represented 90.63% of the operating budget with 91.67% of the year having passed.
• As of May 31, 2011, balance in the Library Trust totaled $37,356.34.

Monthly Statistics

• May circulation was up 5% over last May.
• 702 library cards were issued in May.   176 new library cards were issued, which is an increase of 14% over the previous year; 526 cards were renewed or replaced for a 19% increase.

Director’s Report

State Agreements for FY11/12

• Direct State Aid, Open Access, Access Plus and FirstSearch agreements were all signed and submitted.

Programs:

• The summer reading clubs are off to a great start with 1137 kids and 83 adults currently registered.
• The Barnyard Bash summer reading kickoff program held at the Simpson Barn was a great success.  Approximately 200 attendees enjoyed local author Rebecca Janni’s introduction of her latest book.
• The Library was an active participant in the Green Days celebration with the Family Movie @ the Library on Thursday and crafts from 12:00-5:00 on Saturday.
• Planning continues for the Jazz in July event on July 17.

Staff & Training Update:

• Beth Drey Stevens began June 8 as part-time Public Services Assistant Librarian.  In addition to her public services duties, she will assume responsibility for the adult book discussion.  
• Lori Elrick accepted the position as part-time Circulation Clerk and will begin training the week of June 27.

Building & Grounds:

• The Johnston Register recently reported on a donation from the Johnston American Legion that will be used for a monument to honor Johnston veterans.  The memorial will be located in Johnston Commons near Merle Hay Road.
• A tree honoring Kent Zarley, long-time Park/Tree Board member, will be planted in Johnston Commons near the Library.

Technology, Telecommunications, Networking:

• We are working with the Urbandale Library staff to obtain a ‘New arrivals’ report.  Once that report is available, the Library plans to subscribe to the ‘Wowbrary’ service which will automatically email a weekly list of newly added items to customers who request the service.

Marketing Public Relations and Networking:

• Considerable public relations and networking was devoted to the Green Days celebration.
• Cheryl Heid is cooperating with the Johnston Police Dept. to develop a ‘Night out with the Neighbors’ event in September.   City departments will be visiting various neighborhoods to promote safety.  The Library will provide a storytime for children allowing adults an opportunity to visit with representatives from the Fire and Police departments.
• Willona attended a Senior Citizens Advisory Board meeting and met with co-chairs of the Lions Club Booksale to brainstorm ideas for next year’s sale.
• Kinney Carnahan and Maurine Myers attended a retirement reception for the Urbandale youth services librarian.

Foundation & Friends Report

• The full Foundation Board met June 1.
• The Silpada jewelry party fundraiser netted approximately $600.00 for the Friends.
• Planning continues for the wine/cheese/art fundraiser in September.

Public Safety Facility Presentation

The Johnston Police Chief, Fire Chief and Mayor will attend the July Library board meeting to present information on the upcoming Public Safety Facility referendum.

Trustee Comments

Board members offered their assistance if more help is needed with children’s activities during Jazz in July on July 17 and Alex Johnston reported on meeting with Councilman John Kallen.

There being no Other Business, Dennis Schuessler moved for adjournment.  The motion was seconded by Heather Schmitz, unanimously approved and the meeting adjourned at 6:25 pm.

Dennis Schuessler, Secretary

Last updated: July 22, 2011