HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-10-20 Board of Library Trustees MinutesBoard of Library Trustees Meeting
October 20, 2003
Attending: Richard Ogden, chair; Susie Axelson; Roberta McRae; Karyn Storti; Vicky
Yablonsky; Kimberly Lynn, Library Director, Elizabeth Dickinson, Assistant Director.
The meeting was called to order by Mr. Ogden at 7:00 p.m.
Presentation by Esme Green E
The first order of business was a presentation by Esme Green, Division Head,
Information Services on " Trends in Information Services"
Esme discussed recent personnel changes in her division, and explained the special y
responsibilities of each staff member. She then outlined the following trends:
Growth in Database Use:
Esme explained the various databases that the staff uses in order to find information and
answer customers' questions. Although most of these databases are available to home
users, many people are unaware of this. One of the goals of the reference department is
to provide more publicity for remote usage of databases.
Demand for Computer Classes
The demand continues for all types of computer instruction. Esme explained a survey
which she had created to ascertain the most pressing needs in this area, and outlined the
schedule of classes which are now available.
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Improvements in Interlibrary Loan
Because of improvements in the online catalog, customers can now place their own
reserves from a remote computer. This has led to a great increase in the sharing of books
between libraries and ILL activity. Esme also explained the Virtual. Catalog, a project
which aims to link online catalogs throughout Massachusetts.
certified libraries. Other news in the financial report included the fact that approximately
26% of the budget has been spent to date. Corinne Fisher's LSTA Grant is now
concluded..
Statistical Report
Ms Lynn explained that the drop in number of reference questions is somewhat
misleading. Although there are fewer questions, the questions are often more complex
and time consuming to answer.
Director's Report
• The Lions Club has requested space in the Library to display community service
awards that they have received. Mrs. McRae spoke in favor of finding space in the
Library for all interested community groups to display their awards and honors.
Mrs. Yablonsky suggested the Meeting Room. Mrs. Axelson made a motion to
accept the Lions Club proposal; this was seconded by Mrs. McRae and passed
unanimously.
• Our new Young Adult Librarian, Amy Lannon, started work on October 14. Mr.
Ogden suggested that the Board send a letter of welcome to new employees.
• Russ Graham has stepped down as President of the Library Foundation, although
he will continue to serve on the Foundation Board. Gerry Fiore is the new
president. The Foundation has given the Library $5000 to upgrade and enhance
the computer lab.
• Youth and Teen services are now gearing up for the annual 6th grade "cookie
tours." They are also preparing for Community Movie Day sponsored by the
Williams family. This year the featured movie will be The Cat in the Hat.