|
Minutes of the Board of Directors The Board of Directors of the Wyomissing Public Library met on Tuesday, December 14, 2004 in the Community Room of the library. President Judith Phelps called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. Members present: Maryann combs, Lisa Gallen, Denise
Greenwood, Denise Mogel, J. Peter Muhlenberg., Judith Phelps, Steve
Silverman, John Schmoyer, Bill Stobbart, Geoffrey Stoudt, Mary Approval of minutes: President Phelps requested approval of November minutes with two corrections: 1) Members at large Gail Dawson White was included; 2) The budget for 2005 was approved. President's report: Judy stated that the Jerlyn Foundation had contributed $5,000 to finalize their pledge. Chris Ritter stated that the Borough Council had allocated $165,000 in support for the library in 2005. Judy reported that Chris and Marlisa Mizurak attended a Friends Forum at Berks County Public Library headquarters in early November. Chris submitted a grant to the Wyomissing Foundation for children's technology resources: the project cost is $8, 500. Highlights include new programs that will be used by children outside of school hours. The library and other contributing foundations will support the project after the funding year. If granted, the $8,500 investment by the Wyomissing Foundation will yield "not only very positive results immediately in the form of educated, highly skilled students, but it will also yield results in the future as other funding organizations realize how the library implements grants responsibly. Looking into the future, as these students become adults they will remember the Wyomissing Public Library and ensure that it continues the noble tradition established by its founders and especially Mrs. Anna Thun." Judy & Geoff complimented Chris on his excellent grant proposal. Judy complimented retiring Board members Diane Yoh and Denise Mogel on their very dedicated, faithful service to the library. Diane will continue her much appreciated volunteer efforts. Judy also mentioned that a new children's librarian, Colleen Stamm, was hired. Tina Hess will fill the vacancy created by the departure of Kathy Thren, who accepted a position as director of the new Spring Township Library. Judy thanked the Board for the honor and opportunity to serve as president. She expressed appreciation to the board for its team effort. Geoff Stoudt lauded Judy for all her hard, diligent efforts and mentioned she still has one year remaining as a director. Treasurer's report: Andrew was absent, but the operating budget and cash flow management sheets were circulated. Bill Stobbart questioned the large figure for library materials in November, and Chris explained that it was for standing orders. Approval of the report was made by Denise Greenwood and seconded by Geoff Stoudt. The motion passed. Corresponding Secretary: Denise Greenwood, in Diane Yoh's absence, read a thank you note from Sandy Park for the floral arrangement she received during her two-week hospital stay. Library Director: Chris reported that November circulation was up 6% over 2003. He stated that the new Children's Librarian, Colleen Stamm, is fitting in well. She will continue with the preschool programs and also provide more programs for elementary aged students. On November 22, Earth Rhythms from West Reading presented a much-enjoyed program for 86 persons. Another program (table settings) only attracted six persons. This pointed out the need for more extensive advertising and marketing of programs. Chris also pointed out that Tina Hess' hiring meant that there is now a full complement of library staff. Chris mentioned further that his grant to the Wyomissing Foundation would be presented at its board meeting in January 2005. It should be stated that the Wyomissing Foundation came to the WPL for project suggestions. Chris discussed a new circulation system to be considered. The State purchased a state-of-the-art system and is subsidizing library subscriptions to the service. If the project is accepted it will cost WPL $2,000 annually. Chris will have material, and the system, looked over by Bill Stobbart and John Schmoyer for their opinion that will be reported back to the Executive Committee on 1-3-05. Committee Reports: Unfinished business: Mary Ellen Wells suggested that email be used more for better communication to the community. Judy suggested email addresses be obtained with the membership solicitation letters. A sign-up sheet for WPL visitors email addresses was suggested. New Business: Geoff Stoudt presented his "President's Goals for 2005." This is included for your perusal. He was particularly enthusiastic regarding the children's program potential. Geoff invited comments regarding these goals. Committee assignments, along with new chairpersons, were passed out. The meeting adjourned at 4:50 pm. Respectfully submitted, Next Exec Meeting: January 3,2005 @ 5:00 p.m.
|