1996-09-26 School Committee Minutes - Board of Library Trustees

Home Browse Search

Joint Session Page 2 September 26 1997 of the collaboration and how it affects service. Computers in Coolidge will be connected to NOBLE, allowing students access to the multi-library catalog, the Internet, and a full-text magazine index, and allowing library staff to use automated circulation functions. Dr. Harutunian questioned whether the School Committee can or wants to transfer the middle school library budget to the public library, citing ramifications of ed reform requirements. Ms. D'Antona expressed concern over a lack of figures. She does not resist the idea, but has concerns about the cost and needs a proposal before she makes a decision. Ms. Hanley provided cost estimates: the Library pays out about $25,000 to NOBLE annually. Coolidge has paid $2,750 each for two NOBLE ports, and has purchased a phone line and a PC. Dr. Harutunian remarked on hidden costs involved in weeding, scanning, and cataloging. Ms. Hichborn worked a good portion over the summer inputting and weeding. Mr. Cummings pointed out that all those costs are also associated with using a local system. Coolidge's NOBLE hookup was paid for largely by a grant. The current costs for the pilot at Coolidge are covered by the budget. Mr. Conner proposed that the money spent be kept track of, then both parties can go to FinComm saying, this is how much it costs if you want to expand it, give us this much money. Athena, a stand-alone library automation product, costs $10,000. Mrs. Cavicchi asked when the Committee could have something in writing to sign. Dr. Harutunian replied that he can not make a proposal. Mr. Cummings said that it doesn't matter if the money is transferred from School to Library, since it's the community.'s money. Mr. Conner argued against transfer of funds for the pilot. It was suggested that an agreement be put together based on information from the pilot project. Mr. Spadafora recommended that the project move ahead as fast as possible. He look to be kept informed of details as it progresses. The next step is to speak to principals at other schools about the pilot. Mrs. Silvaggi suggested that FinComm may have to come up with additional money. Mrs. Hanley said that FinComm is well-disposed toward the project. Mr. Twomey recommended that the pilot be publicized at Town Meeting. Members can be informed that they can access the Coolidge library and the Reading Public Library through their home Internet connections. Mr. Stohlman said that, even if all the specifics are not spelled out yet, he would like to see Dr. Harutunian and Ms. Hanley come up with an agreement as detailed as they feel comfortable with, describing it as a pilot project. Dr. Harutunian expressed his concern that there will be labor issues if this agreement is set. ADJOURN At 9:10 p.m. Mr. Spadafora moved to adjournMr Twomey seconded the motion The meeting adjourned. The vote was unanimous 6-0. Ms. Cavicchi Ms. D'Antona Mr. Spadafora Mr. StohlmanMr Twomey Ms Williams Ms. Dubois. Mr. Conner Dr. Redford Ms Silvaggi Ms Hanley - - -