May 16, 2005

Board Members Present: Mary Burchill, Jill Fincher, Terry Leibold, John Nalbandian, Craig Penzler, and Jeff Shmalberg

Staff Present: Bruce Flanders, Joyce Steiner, Tricia Karlin, and Sherri Turner

Guests Present: Mary Michener (League of Women Voters)

Terry called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.

There were no public comments.

The minutes of the April 18, 2005 Library Board meeting were reviewed. Craig moved to approve the minutes. Mary seconded the motion, which carried by voice vote.

The April staff meeting minutes were reviewed.

Librarian’s Report

Financial and Statistical Report: Bruce reviewed the financial and statistical report. It was reported that expenditures are within budget. Bruce highlighted the 10% increase in overall circulation and the 400% increase in web site visits.

Street Repairs: Bruce reported that the 7^th and Kentucky Streets construction project is expected to take long than anticipated with an estimated completion in June or July.

Library Capital Improvement Projects: Bruce gave an update of upcoming projects, including carpet for the Technical Services area, additional seating, new shelving for paperbacks, and an updating logo displayed on the Kentucky Street book drop.

Ongoing Business

New Direction Activities: Craig reported that a committee consisting of himself, Jeff Shmalberg, Mayor Highberger, and Mike Wildgen chose the Library Expansion Project Prime Consultant, Gould Evans, to guide the Board through the expansion process. Steve Clark of Lawrence will head up the team of consultants. The City of Commission approved this selection and a contract is being drafted.

2006 Budget: Bruce presented a draft budget to the City Commission earlier today. The proposed budget requested a 10% increase in funding. During the presentation, Bruce emphasized the need for salary increases. John moved to approve the budget as presented. Jeff seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

John suggested that the Board try to raise awareness of model 21^st century public libraries. It was suggested that we use the Library web site to do this.

2004 Financial Audit: The Board reviewed the formal response to the recommendations made in the financial audit. Bruce presented a quote from Hartford for an employee dishonesty policy. The annual premium for $50,000 in coverage would be $313. Craig moved to approve the formal response to the audit and the acquisition of insurance coverage. John seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

New Business

There was no new business brought before the Board.

Approval of Bills

Mary moved to approve the bills in the amount of $81,155.35. Craig seconded the motion and it carried by voice vote.

The meeting adjourned at 5:45pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Jill Fincher

Approved _________________________________________________

Date

Secretary _________________________________________________

Jill Fincher

Chair _____________________________________________________

Terry Leibold

Director ___________________________________________________

Bruce Flanders