HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1995 - 19967
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EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
January 17, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Matthew Brackett, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock, MIchael Cervantes,
Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, lsllen Newcomer, Ann Weise, Cheryl Wallin
MEMBERS ABSENT None
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CI TI7_ENS PRESENT None
PRESIDING Drew Heindcl, President
CALL TO ORDER President Heindcl called the meeting to order at 7:39 P.M.
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of December 20 were reviewed.
Ann Weise moved, second by Matti Brackett,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of of the Library Board meeting of December 20, 1994 as received.
12/20/94 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
COMMENTS BY None.
CITIZENS
OLD BUSINESS Drew Heindel called the Board's attention to the appraisal of the missing Lehmbruck,
which was sent to Paul Gottschalk by Mr. R. Bruce Duncan of the Chicago Appraisers
Association. This matter will be handled by the City's Claims Loss Prevention Division.
In response to a question about Library security, Mr. Gottschalk said that several of the
Library's more valuable pieces of art have been put on the insurance schedule. Mrs.
Weise asked about the Bouguereau, which is a valuable painting. Mr. Heindel wondered
if it might not be too valuable to be appropriate for the Library. He suggested that the
Board might need to consider de -accessioning this oil painting, which was donated to the
Library by Charles Grey. A new appraisal will be sought.
COMMI TEEIREPRESENTATIVE REPORTS
Space Planning There was no meeting. Mr. Heindel reported that the Library Project Finance
and Physical Committee is scheduling a meeting.
Facilities
Materials and There was no meeting. Mr. Ney was asked to update his comparative tables on library
Services Policy collections and budgets and to share that information with the Committt e.
Management A meeting was scheduled for Wednesday. January 251h, at 4:30 F.M. in the Library
Policy Bound Room. The agenda will include the strategic planning process and rescheduling
the Library Director's evaluation.
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Development A meeting wan scheduled lfor Ttt�sd�y, tan tssry �Rth at 6:3t] P.M. In tlto Library i3rurd :
Room. Agenda icons will include the annual report, the Library Foundation, and the
Holiday Hook Fund.
Board members reviewed rite Committee minutes of December 14th and December 2(hh
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Ellen Newcomer.
MSP Minutes
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes of
of 12/14/94
the Development Committee meeting of December 14, 1994 as amended.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Minutes
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes of
of 12/20/94
the Development Committee meeting of December 20, 1994 as received.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
North Suburban
A meeting of the System's Board of Directors has been scheduled for Monday,
Library System
February 23rd.
PRESIDENTS
Mr. Heindel spoke of an offer by an Evanston artist of a smoked porceiain piece
REPORT
portraying books with pages open and bnokmarks, all very realistic and beautiful.
Mr. Heindel brought up the question of collection security - the book detection system
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alarm is ultra-ensitive and sometimes goes off inappropriately. often the person at the
Information desk is too busy to be able to take the time to challenge the person setting off
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the alarm, and investigate the problem. He suggested that during busy times a discipline
monitor be stationed at the gate; however during those very times it is important that the
discipline monitors patrol the building. 'Ilse sensitivity of the book detection system will
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be checked to avoid inappropriate alarms.
The subject of items lost from the collection was raised. Most losses occur when items
are checked out and not returned. The rota of vandalism to books is low. Mr. Heindel
asked for a selective inventory of portions of the collection -- art, new computer books,
and reference.
Mr. Heindel spoke to the Board in response to an article by Blair Kamin, architectural
critic of the Chicago Tribune. He said that criticism of the new Library building should
not diminish the Boards enthusiasm and sense of pride and success for the building
project. The building was designed to meet the needs of the people of Evanston and to
please them, not to satisfy or titillate architectural critics. It was not meant to be
architecturally significant from a theorist's standpoint, and it is on this issue that it has
been criticized by Mr. Kamin, in a comparison with another architect's approach to
another building which has no bearing on our appreciation of our new building. The
building, as proposed in Joseph POWeII's competition entry, was conservative in its
approach to addressing architectural style, not looking to break new ground in
architectural theory through references to historical styles. Rather, it was intended to
appeal to the people of Evanston as a familiar and appealing landmark, representative of a
style that could celebrate the meaning of Evanston. Mr, Heindel said there were
competition entries he found mure architecturally challenging than Joe Powell's, but he
did recognize, accepting Powell's premise for what the building should be, that Powell's
selection of the particular style for the building was appropriate for Evanston, and the
building would sit well as a landmark. Also, he felt that Powell's design solved the site
problems and the phasing requirements. Following the decision to go single phase, Mr.
Heindel and others on the committee worked hard to ensure that they would get the best
functioning library. Joe Powell should be highly commended for his ability to work with
them, maintaining his concept for the building while at the sauna time reworking the
layout aW design to achieve this Library arrangement that w orka so wa11. for. Heindel
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said that if one wanted to tcvel asidtl,atq Ai P6W40 sltw to his youth or inexperience, one
could say that he allowed the City's Librttry Project Program Committee to have itx way
regarding program and layout more than other, more estahlished architects might have
done. This made it even more difticult for the architect to maintain control over the
purity of the exterior appearance of the building. However, it worked to the benefit of the
community in that it gave us a better library. The new building continues to delight our
patrons, the community, this hoard and stiff; and that is what is important. Its beauty and
presence are a source ofcivic pride. It is wonderfully inviting, extremely comfortable and
efficient to use. The overwhelming success of this project makes thin type of architectural
criticism irrelevant. Certainly it should not diminish our pride in this accomplishment.
Mr. Heindcl called the community's response to the Holiday Book Fund drive wonderful,
and spoke of a large gift given by a most generous annual contributor. The list of
December contributors was reviewed. Board members spoke of the possibility of a large
annual fund raiser. They also spoke of the Northlight Theatre Benefit, to be held at the
Library in mid -March.
z VICE PRESIDENTS Cheryl Wallin presented the financial report for the fen months ending December 31,
REPORT 1994. There were no questions.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Mr. Ney reported that circulation is up compared to last year and five years ago.
REPORT Circulation to Evanston patrons is up by 16% over last year, and circulation to patrons in
the North Suburban Library System is up by 76%. Circulation to Chicago patrons is
down by 36%, the result of the recent restrictions on loans to Chicago residents.
Mr. Ney reported that the Mather Foundation has made the offer of a large donation to be
used for the purchase of large print books.
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Notthlight Theatre has chosen G. B. Shaw's Vi .,Juan in HtU as the play to be performed
at the Library. Aaron Freeman and Mike Nussbaum will he in the cast.
NEW BUSINESS
Calendar of Board Scheduling of various Board projects was discussed. The Management Policy
Events Committee was directed to review Board policy concerning the Library Director's
evaluation.
The process of strategic planning was discussed, as well as scheduling of the annual report.
Mr, Ncy suggested that Board policy on the review of the orientation program for new
Board members be changed so that this is done when appropriate, not every May. Mr.
Garber suggested that the Board give an annual reception for the Library staff, all Board
members were in favor of this plan. Mr. Ney was asked to prepare a recommendation for
such a recognition program.
Holiday Closings The Board considered the memorandum from Mr. Gottschalk concerning Library
closings.
Cheryl Wollin moved, second by Ann Weise,
MSP Library The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the Library
Closings Holidays for 1995 as detailed in the memorandum by Paul Gottschalk.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
In the context of the coming meeting of the Library Exterior An Committee,
Ms. Newcomer spoke of the issues of copyright and contract. She also inquired about
progress in finding an appropriate software for the Library's mailing list database.
Marlene Harris replied that she has received demo copies of database management
software and is considering them.
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ADJOURNMENT
MSP Adjourn
Board mambars spoks of the sr:crAss of tie iiWt iy"' look Fund drive, and of
congratultitfng the Evanston Librxxy Fricnds for their efforts on behalf of this program.
Bomd mcmtxrn discussed Mr. Ney's memorandum detailing amendments to the Open
Meetings Act.
In response to u Board member's question Mr. Ney spoke of the Library Learning
Exchange, a cooperative effort by the Poster Reading Center, the Chicago Junior League
and Evanston Public Library to encourage computer literacy. Junior League volunteers
trained by the Library will introduce children from dtlt to lath grade to educational
software and the Library databases. Monthly field trips to the Library will feature
additional instruction in the use of computer systems, us well as an introduction to the
Library.
Michael Cervantes moved, second by Matt Brackett,
The Evanston Public Library hoard of Directors moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned 9:37 P.M.
APPR4 F. MKUARY 21, L
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
February 21, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT Matthew Brackett, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock, Michael Cervantes
Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ellcn Newcomer, Ann Weise, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT None
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal 1. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CrITLENS PRESENT None
PRESIDING Drew Heindel, President
CALL TO ORDER President Heindel called the meeting to order at 7:40 P.M.
COMMENTS FROM None.
CITIZENS
The Board reviewed the minutes of its January meeting and one change was made.
Michael Cervantes moved, second by Ann %Vcise,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of of the Library Board meeting of January 17, 1995 as amended.
I/17195 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
OLD BUSINESS There was none.
COMMITTEE/REPRESENTATIVE REPORTS
Space Planning There was no meeting. Mr. Hcindel spoke of a letter received from Max Rubin, Director
and Physical of Facilities Management, requesting that the Library Project Finance Committee
Facilities approve retaining U. S. Equities to oversee some of the Library Project close-out work.
There is $7.000 left from the pre -construction budget, that will be used to pay for these
services. They will not exceed their cap. The Library Project Finance Committee
approved this additional service.
Materials and There was no meeting.
Services Policy
Management The Committee reviewed the Library Director Evaluation procedure. The present form
Policy will be used once more before changes are considered. The matter of security, on which
staff input will be sought, was addressed. The Building Project contingency fund was
discussed in connection with the Library's collection and automation needs.
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Mr. Heindel spoke of the stmiegic planning process. He and Neal Ney are in contact with
Executive Search Corps, an organization composed of people experienced in advanced
planning. An executive from the Corps will meet with Mr. Heindcl and Mr. Ney to
explain how they might assist the Library. This organization charges for administrative
support only, not for the executive's time.
Matt Brackett moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Committee The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to accept the minutes of the
Minutes January 25, 1995 meeting of the Management Policy Committee as received.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Development The Committee met February 16th for what its Chair, Mr. Cervantes, called a lively
meeting on the annual report. The next meeting is scheduled for March 14th at 7:30 P.M.
in the Library Board room.
Ellen Newcomer moved, seconded by Matt Brackett.
MSP Committee 71.e Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to accept the minutes of the
Minutes Development Committee's meeting of February 16th, 1995 as received.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Archibald Bryant suggested that point 1V in the outline for the text of the annual report
should be changed to "to maintain the excellence of the print collection." Mr. Heindcl
said the Hoard should discuss a budget for the annual report, and how it fits into the
general budget. He spoke of a professional writer who is willing to donate some time.
The target date for the annual report is April ist.
Discussion turned to the Library Foundation. Four people (Donald Wright, Giennis
Lundberg, Missy pascal, Dorothy Vcr Siceg) are being approached to serve on the
42 Foundation Steering Committee. Mr. Ga:hct will chair the Steering Committee, on which
Mr. Heindcl will also serve.
Part of the Commiuce's next meeting should be devoted to the future roles of the Library
Board and its Development Committee, in connection with the Foundation Steenng
Committee, which Drew suggested convening in late March.
Mr. Garber spoke of planning for a benefit. and selection of a chairperson. Mr. Cervantes
spoke of having a Library rededication party on October 14th and locating new people to
lead this effort.
North Suburban The proposed new composition of the System's Board of Directors was discussed.
Library System Mr. Bryant raised the question of why special (corporate) libraries are part of a tax -
supported library system, tie said that special libraries give nothing; they cut back on
their own facilities and receive aid from the public libraries in the system. One Board
member wondered whether the Reciprocal Borrowing Program is equitable.
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PRESIDENTS Mr. Heindcl discussed with the Board the memorandum drafted in response to a
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REPORT Reference made by Alderman Newman at the City Council budget meeting. The
IN alderman proposed that $100,000 from the City Manager's insurance fund be set aside for
the Library to improve its collections. This money is interest earned on Library Pmjcct
funds. The City Manager has planned to use it as insurance for unfunded liabilities.
During the City Council's budget heating aldcrmen questioned Mr. Ney. The Council
V will meet on February 27th to consider rite budget. Alderman Newman has requested a
report from the Library Board on what the Library steeds are.
Mr. Heindcl said that Beth Hart of lie city`: Public Art Committee had miscd the issue of
wlzcdor fire Board was inicrrstrd in proceeding further with the "Adopt -A -Chair"
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program far the Children's Room. Mr. Garber argued that the Library and its interim
now have an artistic integrity, and this would be disturbed by special. different furniture.
It was the consensus of the Board that for several reasons we not proceed further with this
program. Mr. Heindel spoke of the death of Rosemary Zwick and Joseph Zendell, two
outstanding cinemas in the Evanston community.
The Library is a beneficiary in the will of Audrey Cregicr, an Evanston resident. She has
bequeathed tL% a collection of sheet music.
VICE PRESIDENTS Mrs. Wollin reported that contributions to the Holiday Hook Fund are still coming in.
REPORT She then presented the financial report for the eleven months ending January 31, 1995,
There were no questions.
Evanston Library Mrs. Wollin complimented the Friends on the Robert Altman film program, which wac
Friends well thought out, and included free soft drinks and popcorn. There arc other good
programming events coming up. Volunteers are continuing to work on preparation for the
Book Sale.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Mr. Ney reported that circulation figures arc down from 19)0 due to the restrictions on
REPORT Chicago borrowers; however, circulation to Evanston residents is up 20%.
The Library has scheduled for insurance all art works presently therein; the Lehmbruck
was not scheduled and therefore is not covered. An appraiser is coming to evaluate
Walter Burt Adams' oil painting May Fir;rt, William Adolph Bougucrcau's oil painting Ar
the Fountain, and the marble sculpture of a young girl by Giovanni Maria Bcnzoni.
NEW BUSINESS The Board discussed Marlene Harris' memo on the selective inventory. Mr. Heindel
Selective Inventory suggested that more thorough and regular inventories may be needed, fit. Ncy and
Ms. Harris discussed plans for a more regular inventory procedure.
City Service The City Council's service priorities were discussed briefly. Mr. Ney pointed out that
- Priorities Information Services was omitted in the ranking. The issue of branch libraries will have
to be addressed by the Board in the strategic planning process.
Evaluation of The revised procedure was discussed.
Library Director
Michael Cervantes moved, second by Ann Weise,
3 MSP Library The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the new
Director Evaluation procedure for evaluation of the Library Director.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Acceptance of Gift Mr. Ney showed slides of some of the ceramic works of Ruth Weiner, Evanston artist.
From Ruth Weiner Ms. Weiner has offered one of her pieces to the Library. Ntcmbers of the Board were
most favorably impressed.
Archibald Bryant moved, second Ann Weise.
MSP Accept Gift The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to accept the giftfrom
from Ruth Weiner Ruth Wetncr of a ceramic set of books.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The piece will be placed in a plcr:iglass case, securely mounted on a pedestal, and
centered under lights on the second floor in a spot analogous to that of the Bouguereau.
on the third floor.
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Staff Recognition This is a very difficult event to schedule, since many Library staff members work pan
Luncheon time at the Library and have other jobs, ]caving them with little leisure, and Library Board
members also are employed. The possibility of a Friday evening cocktails and hors
d'oedvres, a TGIF event with small groups so that Board members could converse with
individual staff members, was discussed. Ellen Newcomer stressed the importance of
Board members showing appreciation for the staff. Mr. Heindel will work with Mr. Ney
to develop a recommendation for appropriate events and schedules.
Contingency Fund Mr. Hcindcl asked lite Material Services Policy Committee to review the list of Library
needs that might be met with the contingency funds. Board members spoke of Library
automation; all users of the Library's catalog system arc dependent on the Library's
automation system. This is an online catalog serving the public.
Borrower Pursuant to a patmn complaint, the Board considered the identification requirements for
Registration Policy obtaining a Library card. Mr. Heindel called the requirements stringent but pointed out
the Library's need to protect the collection, even though it might inconvenience pcopla.
Marlene Harris said that a library card is a credit card on which one may bonow up In
$9,999 worth of library materials; various forms of identification arc needed to obtain a
credit card. The question of a renewal notice was raised, and Circulation staff was called
lite Library's initial imint of contact with the public. It was agreed that the policy will
remain as is, but that extra Won will be made to encourage the staff to make this a more
agreeable process for patrons.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Archibald Bryant.
MSP Adjourn There being no funitcr business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Directors
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned at 10:38 P.M.
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EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
March 21, 1995, 7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Matthew Brackett, Archibald Bryant, Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer,
Ann Weise, Cheryl Woliin
MEMBERS A13SENT Gloria Bullock, Michael Cervantes
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services blanager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CITIZENS PRESENT None
PRESIDING Drew Heindel, President
CALL TO ORDER President Heindel called the meeting to order at 7:43 P.M.
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of February 21 were reviewed.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Matt Brackett,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of of the Library Board meeting of February 21, 1995 as received.
2/21/95 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
COMMENTS BY None.
CITIZENS
OLD BUSINESS There was none.
COMMITTEEIRF.PRESENTATIVE REPORTS
i Space Planning There was no meeting. Responsibility for a landscape development plan was delegated
and Physical to this Committee. A meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, April d at 7:30 P.M. The
_ Facilities agenda will include landscape development and a response to Jean Baucom's memo an
use of the City parking garage by Library staff, and the use of the Library's basement
parking lot.
Materials and As Mr. Brackett had not been present at the Committee's last meeting, Mr. Heindel gave
Services Policy the report. The Committee reviewed in detail each line item in the proposal for
=4 contingency fund projtcts. This will be be brought to the Library Project Finance
Committee in mid -April. A question was raised on the choice of IBM compatibles only
for the CD-ROM multimedia project. Apple computers are used in the schools. Some
parents purchase Apple computers for this reason. Some CD-ROM software can br used
by either machine. The consensus was that a choice of formats did not need to be made at
this time. The staff will survey other libraries to see what they are doing. Library Board
President Heindel will dray up a summarizing memorandum to accompany the list.
Mmtagemm There was no meeting. Internet A== will be on the Committee's agenda for its next
Policy meeting, Mich will his scttcdulod after the April Board meeting.
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` Development The Committee discussed the proposal, received from lack Wells Associates, to provide
consulting and design services to the Library for production of N 1994 Annual Report.
Mr. Heindel asked the Board to consider the proposal, which hay; a low fee and an
acceptable time frame. The Board should received the printed docuincnts in mid -May. A
budget for this report was discussed; cost was estimated at $1 per copy, and Mr. Garber
suggested that the entire budget should be $25.000 for 15,000 copler, with 10% leeway.
The report should reach leachers, ministers, small businesses, anti Apecial Evanston areas,
Cheryl Wallin moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Accept The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve a budget not
$25,000 Budget greater than $25,000 for the Library's 1994 Annual Report.
Passed unanimously on a roil call vote.
Cheryl Wallin moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Accept The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to accept the proposal of
Weiss Proposal Jack Weiss Associates to provide consulting and design services to the Library for
production of its 1994 Annual Report at a cost not to exceed $5,000. Costs will be
paid out of the Library's Book Sale Fund.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
The Library's plans for an autumn birthday party were discussed. 'lire theme will be Ile
Forties, and there will be a Big Band.
Board members reviewed the Committee minutes of March 14th.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Minutes
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to accept the minutes of
of 3114195
the Development Committee meeting of March 14, 1995 as received.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
North Suburban
Mr. Heindel Icd the hoard in a discussion of the System's survey concerning changes
Library System
in the composition of the System's Board of Directors. The consensus was that the
Evanston Public Library Board did not favor any changes in the composition of the
System Board. 'lire Library Director was instucted to forward this information to the
System.
PRESIDENTS
Mr. Heindel sent a response to th= City Council concerning Alderman Newman's
REPORT
proposal of $100,000 for collection development. At the following Council mwting
Alderman Newman withdrew his proposal. Mr. Newman indicated that he understood
that a proposal would be coming from the Library Board.
Mr. Heindel called the Board's attention to the art appraisal w;iich, he said was very well
done. The pieces listed therein are now scheduled on the Library's insurance policy.
A memorandum from Jean Baucom about the use of the Library's parking garage and
Library staff petmits for the use of the City parking garage was discussed briefly.
Mr. Heindel suggested that the Library's parking garage was not built to make money for
Parking Systems, but was instead built for the convenience of Library patrons.
Mr. Garber mo:•ed..econd by Ellen Newcomer,
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MSP The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to go into executive session
Executive for the purpose of discussing personnel mauers relating to the evaluation of the
4Q Session performance of the Library D'treewr.
Pa&3cd unanimously on a voice vote.
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The- Board was in executive session from 8:40 P.M. to 9.05 RM, 1
VICE PRESIDENTS Mrs. Wollin presented the financial report for the year ending February 28, 1995.
REPORT She pointed out that more than $4,000 had been received for room rental since the
inception of that program, in October of 1994. Mrs. Wollin questioned the deficit in the
Hirshficld Endowment, especially in the light of imminent expenses for the awards
program. Paul Gottschalk will give the Development Committee a summary of expenses
vs, donations for this fund.
Mrs. Wollin said that temporary salaries were over budget. Paul Gottschalk explained
that temporary salary allocations arc unrealistic but had been carried forward from year to
year under the direction of the City. They do not cover medical absences, meetings
attended,and vacations for most agencies. Mr. Hcindel said that, according to the year-
end financial summary, the Library expenditures are $40,000 under budget.
Mr. Gottschalk said that those am not the final figures. Mr. Hcindel thanked Mrs. Wollin
for her report.
Evanston Library At their Board meeting, the Friends discussed the results of their Robert Allman Film
Friends Festival, which was expensive and not well attended, Mrs. Wollin said that Danielle
Pickard, Chair of the Friends' Program Committee, has done very well in arranging for
programs, which are part of the Friend's outreach effort. Tentative Boole Sale dates have
been W. The Friends have agreed to underwrite the Library's Summer Reading Game.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Neal Ncy pointed out that, in the Library's Quarterly Report, Reciprocal Borrowing to
REPORT Chicago residents is half of what it was last year and ilia year before, due to the changed
policy.
Trudy Jones, Head of Children's Services, has invited Board members to the National
Library Week Read Aloud program; both Mayor Morton and Library Director Ney will
participate.
NEW BUSINESS
South Branch The Board discussed the proposed lease for the South Branch Library, and found it
Lease acceptable.
Cheryl Wollin moved, second by Ellen Newcomer
MSP South Branch The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to accept the new [case
' Lease for the South Branch Library. This (case will tun from May 1, 1995 to April 30
1996, at a monthly rent of $2.750.
Passcd unanimously on n voice vote.
Executive Service Mr. Ney and Mr. Hcindel have had two meetings with Peter R. Sawers of the Executive
Corps Proposal -- Service Corps of Chicago (ESC) concerning strategic planning services. All staff of ESC
Strategic Planning are volunteers, including Mr. Sawers, who will bring in more volunteers for this project.
ESC's fee, covering tt sir administrative expenses, is $4,800. The Board reviewed
Mr. Sawers' resume and asked to meet with him before voting on the proposal.
Internet Access The draft Internet policy was reviewed briefly and assigned to the Management Policy
- . Policy Committee. The Committee will meet some time after the April Board meeting.
Collection Develop- Mr. Ney suggested that in the future the Fund for Excellence and the Endowment Fund
ment Projects - be considered together, as a more efficient method of considering coliection development
Endowment projects.
Interest
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Cheryl Wollin moved, second by Sheldon Gatber,
MSP Collection The Evanston Public Library hoard of Directors moves to approve the
Development expenditure of $7,500 of Endowment Fund Interest (52,000 for High Cost Reference
Projects Items, $1,500 for the Evnnston History Preservation Project, $500 for Language
Cassettes, $2,000 for Foreign Language Books, and $1,500 for Juvenile Paperback
Books).
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Overhead 'Ilse Board considered the request from Library Director Ncy for the purchase of a portable
Projector overhead projector that can be used outside the Community Meeting room, and also as a
Purchase backup for the equipment in that room.
Cheryl Woilin moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Overhead The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the expenditure of
Projector up to $600 in Book Sale Funds fur the purchase of a portable overhead projector and
can.
Passed unanimously on a roll call voto.
ADJOURNMENT Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Matt Brackett,
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, tine Evanston Public Library Board of Directors
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjoumcd 9:55 P.M.
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APPROVED WAY Jfh t94!S
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Special Meeting
April 17, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT Matthew Brackett, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock, Michael Cervantes,
Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ann Weise, Cheryl Wallin
MEMBERS ABSENT Ellen Newcomer
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
OTHERS PRESENT Peter R. Sawers and Leon Carrow, Executive Service Corps
PRESIDING Drew Heindel, President
CALL TO ORDER President Heindel called the meeting to order at 7:43 P.M.
Mr. Heindel introduced the first item of business, the introduction of Peter R. Sawers
and Leon Carrow, representatives of the Executive Service Corps, a not -for -profit
consulting firm with offices in Chicago, The Executive Service Corps has prepared a
contract for services to guide the Library Board through the strategic planning process.
Mr. Sawers is a retired consultant, Adjunct Professor in Business and Economics, and
Project Manager of Executive Service Corps (ESC). Mr. Carrow is a retired
obstetrician/gynecologist who was Medical Chief of Staff at Northwestern Hospital. He
is on the Board of the hospital's foundation and involved in their strategic plan.
Mr. Sawcrs explained that ESC will have a three person team including Dick Cravens,
' an attorney, and will bring in more people if necessary. ESC is a management
consulting firm, unique in that all professional staff are retired executives. 'There is a
= paid administrative staff but the great majority of the rest of the staff consists of
volunteers. ESC works only for nonprofit organizations mid government agencies.
In response to a question from Mr. Hcindcl on the difference between Evanston Public
Library and other organizations with which ESC has worked, Mr. Sawers said that the
Library is funded by an organization it does not control. The Library serves a broad
base of clientele. It needs a strategic plan created by both Board and staff with a good
amount of enthusiasm, good planning, and acceptance. The Library Board has had a 20-
year phase focused on improving the facilities; that has been accomplished. Now the
Board tnust look ahead, taking advantage of the good will, city support, community
solidarity that have been built up. A library needs ten-year sense of direction and a five-
year feeling of certitude. The Board is a conservator. its community has changed, and
the community's demography will be further affected by the high rental apartment
building planned for the Washington National area. Library activities must be redefined,
with consideration of which services are needed to protect literacy and reinforce
educational services.
Michael Cervantes posited two approaches, the consultant as facilitator or red tape ad
nauseam. Mr. Sawers said ESC is prepared to perform whatever tasks are necessary.
- They will draft a report if required; they arc not doing the ESC plan for the Library, but
the Library Board plan.
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Sheldon Garber said that the end product will be a white paper from the Library Board
to the City. To a question by Mr. Cervantes on ESC's vision, Mr. Sawers said that
typically there should be a mission statement and a vision statement. (As an aside, he
quoted Petcr Drucker's statement that a mission statement should fit on a tee shirt.) A
statement of a creed of values and fundamental guiding principles is necessary. The
strategic plan needs a set of gnats tit objectives, a statement of problems and issues, and
of what is to be accomplished, He explained that objectives involve who does what and
when, while goals are m6r4 gerfersl. Mr. Garber said goals may change the mission
statement, and Mr. Heindcl said it is fundamental to get a consensus of what's entailed.
To Mr. Cervanw' question concerning the pitfalls of the process Mr. Sawers said one
must avoid being paralyzed by the mission statement or getting too detailed. One must
see the long range, broad picture. and not get tied up in numbers and planning. It is
important to think of what we want to be, whom we want to serve, and in what way. Moe
past should not be used as a forecast of the futust, Mr. Garber spoke of weighing the
budget against its contribution to specific goals in specific years. Neal Ney spoke of his
cuncern about the end product if the Library tries to be all things to all people. He said
the plan should be quite focused and specific. not a vague wish list. Mr. Carrow said
goals must be set, aard Mr. Sawera wondered whether a community library can
specialize. Mr. Garber said the Library has specialized, but due to a lack of adequate
funding the program deteriorated. (At this point Cheryl Wollin entered.) Mr. Gwbar
spoke of the Library's special relationship with Northwestern University. To a question
on whether the presence of Barnes and Noble, would change the role of the Library
Mr. Ney said we work well with them. They have initiated an annual poetry reading
featuring the winners of the Library's Jo -Anne HirshfCeld Memorial Poetry Awards, we
buy from them at times, and we arc discussing author programs with them, While
Barnes and Noble's mission is make money by selling books, ours is to nicet the
information needs of the community. Mr. Garber said that Barnes and Noble has shown
us it tremendous market of people who will spend money to be part of the literacy
experience. Mr. Ney spoke of the cross fertilization in the last 20 years between book
stores and libraries, and said the latter arc learning display and marketing techniques
from the burl: stores, while the stores err learning from libraries about children's
programs, deep stocks, serving a broad audience from a single base, and using
automation to stock items and better serve the public. The possibility of a coffee bar at
the Library (h la Barnes and Noble) was mentioned briefly.
Mr. Sawcrs said that ESC will want to interview each Board member and Mr. Ney's key
people. ESC needs a sense of what the Hoard can handle, of the time and attention
commitments that are possible. Mr. Garber spoke of open forum mectings and special
constituencies (business, teething). HSC will set up Board/staff planning meetings, seek
community input through surveys, and organic an off site phurning reuvat. It is, they
said, a time consuming process. Copies of one of ESC's annual reports were distributed
to the Board. Mr. Heindel thanked Mr. Sawers and Mr. Carrow for their presentation.
EXECUTIVE SESSION At 8:37 p.m. the Library Board entered into executive session to discuss the performance
of the Library Director.
ADJOURNMENT At 10:05 P.M. the Board exited from executive session. There being no more business,
e the meeting adjourned 10.05.
3 AMOVED► NAX 1 =
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MEMBERS PRESENT
MEMBERS ABSENT
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
April 18, 1995; 8:00 P.M.
Matthew Brackett, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock. Michael Cervantes
Sheldon Garber, Dmw Heindel, Ann Welse, Cheryl Wallin
Ellen Newcomer
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CITIZENS PRESENT None
PRESIDING Drew Heindel, President
CALL TO ORDER President Heindel called the meeting to order sit 9:13 P.M.
COMMENTS FROM None.
CITIZENS
In light of the late start of this meeting and the necessity of scheduling an executive
session. Mr. Heindel altered the order of the agenda.
OLD BUSINESS
Newspaper Indexing Neal Ney said that Technical Services Manager Marlene Harms has explored
possibilities of indexing newspapers more efficiently. An RFP was sent and bids
received for the writing of an application to provide an online index to the Evanston
Review. This project will be used to create a program to index future issues; past
records will remain in the Library's newspaper cud index.
A propos funding this project, the Edward Johnson funds were discussed. The restricted
Funds were designated for exterior sculpture, while the unrestricted funds are available
for projects for which the Library Board deems them suitable. Sheldon Garber
questioned the use of gift money for the operating expenses of small projects, saying that
gifts should have a significant tme. Mr. Heindel said that historically the Library Board
has used gifts for projects of this n4ure. Other sources of funds were discussed.
Mr. Garber said these are obligations belonging in a budget supported by public taxes;
using gift money as an escape hatch for municipal budget shortfalls is unacceptable. In
order to invite philanthropy the Library Board must show vision and respeLt for gifts.
Appropriate cues for gift money were discussed.
Mr. Ney said this is a capital expense, not an operating one; someone will be hired to
design software to create a reference tool. Mr. Heindel said there was general agreement
that this service is to be integrated into the Reference service. Cheryl Wollin called it a
= worthy goal; Mr. Heindcl spoke of seeing where funding for this type of project fits into
the Library's strategic plan. Mr. Ncy explained that the Library's operating budget pays
for salaries, building maintenance, materials, and little else. The City's Human
Resources Department helps pay for training for Library staff. Normally the Library's
operating budget should have a Capital Improvement Pratt and ranked list of
expenditure., which the Board would consider, but for years, prior to tha new building
project, all capital expenditures at the Evanston Public Library have came from gift
finds and book sale funds.
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Newspaper indexing, its pmeatly done al,tbe Library, lakes a great emount of staff time.
Archibald Bryant said the 1_14rary is a major information center, while took stores,
whose business is to sell books, do not provide information. The Evanatan Review is a
community paper, it must be indexed at the Library. It was suggested that the Board ask
the Evanston Review for $1,000 u year to fund the indexing.
Returning to the subject of gifts, Mr. Garber spoke of using large gifts as seed money for
more notable. projects, such as a scholar in residence program, to be called the Johnson
Scholar, or to create a special program for Spanish speaking children, The Project in
Arnerican Literacy. Mrs. Wollin spoke of major computer upgrades (to the Library's
VAX and Local Area Network), which are in the City's Capital Improvement Plan. In
turn, the Library has set aside $10,000 to $12,000 of State Per Capita grant money for
annual upgrades of smaller equiprrrnt to kocp the computer systems current. Board
consensus was to propose ter the Library Project Finance Committee that this effort be
funded from the Library Project Contingency Fund.
Matthew Brackett moved, second by Ann Weise,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the proposal
DataBase Designs from DataBase Designs to write a Paradox for Windows application to provide
Proposal an online 'index to the Evanston Review at a cost of $9,120.00. Work on this
project will not begin until August of 1995, and the 'indexing is to begin January
of 1996. Funding will be requested from lite Library Project Contingency Fund.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Fund Raising The Board next considered a memorandum from Technical Services Manager Marlene
Management Harris containing an in-depth evaluation of nine software programs for fund-raising
Software management. Since some of the better programs are not yet Windows based,
Evaluation Mr. Heindel suggested that the Board wait until September of this year, when the
programs will be converted to Windows, since a sophisticated, user-friendly system is
needed. Mr. Garber thanked Ms. Harris for her thorough research and well -documented
research.
Executive Service Mr. Heindel asked the Board for comments on the presentation given by representatives
Corps Strategic of the Executive Service Corps (ESC) during the Library Board's special meeting on
Planning Proposal April 17th. Ann Weise said "they were wonderful" and Mr. Cervantes found them on
target in answering Board members' questions. Having worked on strategic plans and
done consulting, however, he warned the Board not to underestimate the amount of staff
time needed. Mr. Ney said the Library staff Administrative Team would be involved in
_ the planning. Mrs. Wollin questioned the fee and time frame. She had an experience
when the deadline was not met and the cost, therefore, tripled. Air. Heindel said ESC is
somewhat open-ended regarding the deadline and perhaps the Board can negotiate three
more months.
' Ann Weise moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Approve
Executive Service
Corps Proposal
MM
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the proposal
of the Executive Service Corps to provide consulting assistance in the
development of the Library's Strategic Plan at a cost of $4,800, to be paid for
with Book Sale funds.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
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NEW BUSINESS
Library Fundmiaing
Resoume Center
This Program Invulvas graining in fund-raising technique" fer a member of the Library
DOW slid the Library Directrr;, as well as ongoing fund-ralsing support and consultation.
Romd con►antux wax that application for the grant should be made. Mr. Cervantes, as
Chair of the Library Dowd's Development Committee, was designated Library Board
repmaentWtive.
Appointment or a Mr. llalndel ouilinod the priwedure for election of Board officers. The Nominating
Nominating Cotnnllttco brings o alata to the May meeting, the Board votes in June and officers assume
Committea, Office In July.
Sheldon Gaffer moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Nominwing Tlta Rvanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to appoint Matthew
Committee 11mcken, Gloria Bullock, and Ann Weise to die Nominating Committee.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Glenview Public Mr. Nay explained to the Board that the form to be filled out for the Library's Annual
Library Board of Report to the Stara of Illlnoin tuually comes to the Library after the date the State should
Trustees have received it back, completed. The form is not even printed in time. Board consensus
Resolution on State was to take no nctian on this item.
Annual Rspoit
EXECUTIVE SESSION At 9,25 P.M. the Library Board entered into executive session.
Michael Cervantes moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Executive Tile Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to go into executive
Session session to discuss the performance of the Library Director.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
At 10:20 P.M. the Board resumed its regular meeting.
MSP Executive The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to end the executive
Session session and resume its regular Board meeting activities.
114ssed unanimously on a voice vote.
APPROVAL OF Matthew Bracken moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
MINUTES
MSP Approve '!he Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve as received
Minutes of Hoard the minutes of: the regular Board meeting of March 21, 1995, the Executive
and Committee Session of March 21, 1995. the Committee of the Whole of March 29, 1995, the
Meetings Committee of the Whole of March 29, 1995, the Space Planning and Physical
Facilities Committee meeting of April, d, 1995, and the Materials and Services
Policy Committee of March 16, 1995.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
ADIOURNMPNr There being no further business, the Board adjoumed 10:25 P.M.
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EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
May 16, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Matthew Brackett, Archibald Bryant, Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Gruber,
Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer, Ann Weise, Cheryl Wallin
MEMBERS ABSENT
Gloria Bullock
STAFF PRESENT
Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
CITIZENS PRESENT
None
PRESIDING
Drew Heindel, Pm%ident
CALL TO ORDER
President Heindel called the meeting to order at 7:40 P.M.
COMMENTS FROM
None.
CITIZENS
Archibald Bryant moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Approve
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of
of the Library Board meeting of April 18, 1995 as received.
4/18/95
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Archibald Bryant moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Approve
The Evanston Public Library Board of Dire: tors moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of
of the special Library Board meeting of April 17. 1995 as received.
4/17/95
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
=
Archibald Bryant praised the bibliography entitled "Life Behind the Veil; The World of
Islamic Women," which was created by Reader's Advisor Barbara Levie.
= OLD BUSINESS
Strategic Planning
The Executive Service Corps is interviewing staff. Mr. Heindel discussed appointment
of the Strategic Planning Committee, which will be composed of two staff members -
Paul Gottschalk and Ron Stoner, and Ncal Ney (non -voting), three Board members -
-
Michael Cervantes, Ellen Newcomer and Archibald Bryant, and Drew Heindel (non-
voting). The planning retreat for the Board has been tentatively scheduled for Tuesdiy
May 30.
COMMITTEREPRESENTATIVE REPORTS
FJ
Sp-tcc Planning Cheryl Wallin presented a draft memorandum about the library parking garage and some
and Physical changes were suggested.
Facilities
44-
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Cheryl Wollin moved, second by Matthew Brackett,
hiSP Library The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve as amended the
Parking Board's memorandum on "Library Parking."
Passed unanimously on a voice vote,
Paul Gottschalk gave an update on lighting additions throughout the building.
Materials and There wa.4 no meeting.
Services Policy
Management There was no meeting. Mr. Ney stressed the importance of a Committee discussion and
Policy approval on Internet policy, and Mr. Cervantes suggested the need for professional review
before Internet access is made public this summer at the Library.
Development There was no meeting, but a telephone poll was conducted concerning the fall benefit
scheduled for October 14th and its Happy Birthday theme. Serving on the Benefit
Committee will be lean Baron, Lisa Holton, Filen Newcomer, Ann Weise, and Cheryl
Wollin. Tickets will be S 125 each. In keeping with the 1940s theme there will be a big
band, a dance floor on the third floor, appetizers and win.-. There may be a silent auction
of autographed books, and publicity should be released by August Ist.
Mr. Garber said the Evanston Public Library Foundation Steering Committee will meet to
discuss identification of leadership and prospective donors,
Neal Ney said the Annual Report is nearing completion.
North Suburban There was no report.
Library System
PRESIDENTS Mr. Heindel reported on the progress of the exterior art selection process.
REPORT
Mr. Heindel told the Board of a letter he received thanking Mr. Ney for serving on the
Library Fellows Selection Program,
VICE PRESIDENTS Mrs. Wollin presented the financial report for the two months ending April, 1995. 71herc
REPORT were no questions.
Evanston Library Mrs. Wollin reported that the Friends' Board had discussed the plaque on which would
Friends be inscribed the names of lifetime Friends members - donors of $1,000 or more.
Mr. Garber said it is not appropriate to have a plague for a one -tithe $1,000 gift.
Apparently there is no historical, formal commitment on the part of the Library Board to
honor lifetime Friends memberships with a plaque. It was recommended that a decision
on the Friends plaque be held until the Foundation Board has a say in donor recognition.
Volunteers are needed for the upcoming book sale.
"Clarissa's Closet" was very well received, and played to a packed house.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Mr. Ncy presented the activities report for April. 1995, There were no comments. He
y REPORT spoke of troubling incidents with middle school students whoa behavior was totally
inappropriate. The recent power outage was also discussed.
NEW BUSINESS
Annual Report The Board reviewed the Illinois State Library Annual Report.
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Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Cheryl Wollin,
hiSP Annual Report The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the Illinois Slain
Library Annual Report its Presented.
Passed unanimously on a voice vole.
Review of Qveno es Mr. Heindel introduced Avcntt�,}�xccllengI. He deplored the lack of a public
S ExcelIcUrA II relations staff person at the Library, and stressed the value of such a position. A question
was raised on the possibility of doing n periodical usage study a% part of the strategic
planning.
Nominating Mrs. Weise reported that Mr. Hcindcl will serve on the Strategic Planning Committee, but
declined another term as President, due to time commitments. 'lice Nominating
Committee selected Cheryl Wollin as President, Ellen Newcomer as Vice President and
Gloria Bullock as Secretary. Mrs. Wollin zpoke of the need to delegate projects and Ito-
share responsibility among all Hoard members.
Mr. Zwick'r, Proposal Neal Ney discussed Sidney Zwick's proposal to donate ten pieces of art to the Library.
Mr. Hcindcl said all gifts must be unrestricted, and that there is a process in place to
acquire and accept sit. Mr. Hcindcl will prepare a response to Mr. Zwick summarizing
the consensus of the hoard and outline the process for art apptnval.
Mr. Cervantes attended a meeting on the renewal of the city's cnble franchise agreement.
He Suggested the possibility of the Library's using a community necess channel for
Library -related progrnmming.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Sheldon Garber.
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Directors
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned at 10:00 P.M.
APPROVED .TUNE 20.1995
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EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
June 20, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Matthew Brackett, Gloria Bullock, Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer,
Ann Weise, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Archibald Bryant, Michael Cervantes
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Ncal J. Ney
Administmtire Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CITIZENS PRESENT
PRESIDING
CALL TO ORDER
MSP Approval
of Minutes of
5/16195
COMMENTS BY
CITIZENS
Lori Midson, ECTV
Drew Heindel, President
President Heindel called the mccting to order at 7:40 P.M,
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of May 16 were reviewed.
Matthew Brackett movers, second by Drew Heindel,
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
of the Library Board meeting of May 16, 1995 as received.
Passed unanimously an a voice vote.
None.
ECTV VIDEO ABOUT
Lori Midson, ECTV (Evanstan Cable Television) representative, showed the Board a
THE EVANSTON
12 minute video entitled "A Tow ui the Evanston Public Library." The video gave a
PUBLIC LIBRARY
history of the competition for the new Library building, with narrative by Neal Ney,
-
and gave a tour of the building including the an pieces and public automation
equipment. The ending title was "Me Evanston Public Library Has Something for
Everyone:' 'Ibis video will be aired on cable TV and a copy given to Oic Library.
-
Several changes were suggested by Board members. Cheryl Wallin praised the video's
"nice graphics and music" and Mr. Heindel thanked Ms. Midson for having brought the
video.
- OLD BUSINESS
a Election of
Mr. Heindel presented the slate of nominees for Library Board office. He reminded the
Officers
Board that members elected this day will assume office in July.
Matthew Brackett moved. second by Ann Weise,
MSP Election of
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the slate of
Officers
officers as pr=ntod by the Nominating Committee: President, Cheryl Wallin;
Vice -President, Ellen Newcomer, Secretary, Gloria Bullock.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
-
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401
COMMITTEEIREPRESENTATIVE REPORTS
Space Planning There was no meeting,
and Physical
Facilities
Malcrials and These was no meeting.
Services Policy
Management There was no meeting.
Policy
Development There was no meeting.
Fall Fund The fund raiser mailing was discussed. lids celebrates the first birthday of the new
Raiser library building. Wine will be donated and there will be hors d'ocu%,res and a "big
band" Ticket prices were discussed as well as the possibility of gift book plates.
Ms. Newcomer stressed the Library Board's commitment to support collection
development beyond budget limitations. Mr. Heindel said the fund raiser will be held in
time to unveil the winning exterior sculpture; maquettes are due in mid -September.
Annual Report Mr. Heindel circulated photocopies of the proposed annual report for the Evanston
Public Library. it will be a three -color booklet, with green background, sepia details and
black text. Mr. Heindel will contact Board members on several changes in the report.
Ellen Newcomer rnoved, second by Sheldon Garber.
MSP Print Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve Great Lakes Graphics
Annual Report of Skokie as the printer for the annual report. The bill will be paid with book sale
funds.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Mr. Heindel suggested the Board review several points in the report, especially the focus
of the section on the Library's collection..
To a question from the Board, Mr. Ney announced that the past weekend's book sale,
sponsored by the Evanston Library Friends, brought in $8,030.28. The sale was very well
attended, despite sparse coverage by the Evanston Review, to which several releases had
been sent.
Strategic Tic Executive Service Corps has completed interviews with Library staff. A date for
Planning the Board retreat is pending.
Committee
North Suburban
There was no report.
Library.System
Foundation
'life Committee will meet on Tuesday, June 27th at 3:30 P.M.
Steering
Committee
Exterior Art
Mr. Heindel reported that the Committee had met and reviewed 15-20 submissions,
Committee
which were then narrowed to four. Sketches of the four were hung in the Board Room
during the meeting. Maqucttes will be submitted in September.
2
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' PRESIDENTS Mr. Hcindcl announced that Camille Blachowicz will replace Mr. Brackett, whose
REPORT term on the Board ends this month. Dr. Blachowicz is professor of idueatinn at
National -Louis University, a graduate of Leadership Evanston, a Library volunteer, and
former Secretary of the Rogers Park Friends, Mr. Hcindcl spoke with warmth of her
qualifications. If approved by the City Council, Mrs. Blachowicz will join the Library
Board for its July meeting.
D11bQ1iL11 De-Agn , a hook about James McNeil Whistler and his art, was presented to
Mr. Brackett. This book will be aged to the collection in honor of Mr. Brackett's
service on the Library Board. Mr. Garber suggested a Board resolution of appreciation
for Mr, Brackett's six years of service during n time representing a sea change for the
Library.
It was also suggested that the Board pass a resolution of thanks to Mr. Heindcl for his
extraordinary initiative and resourcefulness through his year of service as President of the
Library Board, and to the Evanston Library Friends for their well organized book sale this
month, which required much time and hard work.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Ellen Newcomer.
MSP The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve resolutions of
Appreciation appreciation for Mr. Brackett's six years of service on the Board, to Mr. Heindcl for
his leadership as President of the Library Board, and to the Evanston Library Friends
for their magnificent efforts during the June book sale.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Mr. Garber expressed the Board's appreciation for Mr. Heindel's "short, intensive,
extraordinarily productive leadership", which had been sorely needed, a fulcrum to
change direction from building to collection, and to rethink priorities. Mr. Heindcl had
who indicated to the Nominating Committee that he did not want to continue as Board
President, said this has been an extraordinary time, and he will continue to try to meet
challenges, and help the new Library Board President focus on special projects.
VICE PRESIDENTS Mrs. Woliin presented the financial report for the three months ending May al, 1995.
REPORT Mr. Heindel asked about rental book income, and Paul Gottschalk explained that that is a
net income account. The Library's photocopy machines for public use were discussed.
These machines, which were purchased through a revenue -sharing agreement, are
serviced daily but copy quality is poor and there is much down time.
Mrs. Wollin suggested that the Board dedicate a book in memory of Darlene Fisher, who
was the League of Women Voters representative to the Library. Mrs. Fisher, who was a
teacher, was interested in Asian studies
Ms. Newcomer spoke of the great success of Mr. Ney's speech to the Evanston Historical
Society Guild.
Evanston Library At their April Board meeting the Friends prepared for the June book We. discussed
Friends other special projects and designated people to take charge.
Library Board members spoke of having a plaque in honor of lifetime members of the
Friends. Mr. Garber expressed his thanks to the Friends for their magnificent efforts on
behalf of the Junc book sale. Ms. Newcomer also expressed appreciation to Library staff
who helped with the sale.
Pursuant to a suggestion from Ms. Newcomer, Mr. Gottschalk will designate a bulletin
board in the lobby for Library Board announcements.
3
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LIBRARY Neal Ney presented the Library activities trport for the month of May, and spoke of the
DIRECTOR'S REPORT Internet training scheduled for July 9th.
NEW BUSINESS
North Branch The Board briefly reviewed a memo from Paul Gottschalk detailing the neceurity of a
Interior Paint Job new interior paint job for the branch, and the costs.
Cheryl Wallin moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP North Branch The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the expenditure of
Interior Paint Job up to S1,750 in Notch Branch book sale funds for the painting of the interior of
North Branch Library.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Tenant for 2022 The Board discussed the process of finding a tenant for 2022 Central Street, the other
Central Street portion of the building that houses North Brunch, The Board indicated a strung
preference for a tenant that was not a fast food operation.
July and August Board consensus was to have the July meeting on July 18, as originally scheduled. A
Board Meetings date for the August Board meeting will be decided upon.
Resolution of Mrs. Wallin expressed regret at not having said good-bye to Trudy Jones, who was Head
Thanks for Trudy of Children's Services for 17 years. She spoke of the importance of Library Board and
Jones staff involvement and cooperation. Ms. Newcomer suggested a book in honor of
Mrs. Jones. Mrs. Jones will be given a framed copy of a resolution of thanks, and a copy
of the resolution will be displayed at the Library. Mrs. Wallin suggested inviting Jan
Bojda, the new Head of Children's Services, to the next Board meeting.
Cheryl Wallin moved, second by Matthew Brackett,
MSP Resolution The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the resolution of
Trudy Jones thanks for Gertrude K. Jones.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The resolution was signed and will be forwarded to Mrs. Jones.
Per Capital Grant
The Board discussed the diversity of the Evanston community in light of information in
- Application
the Per Capita Grant application. The community is on the edge of a big city; them arc
tensions in the schools and disturbances in the Library. Boanl members requested that
they be notified within 24 hours of incidents in which the police are called. Board
members asked about Library staff concerns relating to security in the building, and
wondered about a pattern to the incidents. Mr. Ney informed the Board that. during his
meeting with Evanston middle school principals, he was urged to enforce Libraryrules
-
strictly. Ms. Newcomer said the sight of the discipline monitors patrolling the Library is a
much -appreciated deterrent; they reassure patrons by their very presence. Mr. Ney spoke
of a LACONI seminar on the "Future of the Public Library". which he attended. The
declining level of civility was discussed as one of the forces shaping the future of the
public library.
Cheryl Wallin moved, second by Drew Heindel
MSP Per
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors troves to approve the submission of
Capita Grant
the Illinois State Library Per Capita Grant Application.
Application
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
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AD]DURNMBN'1' Cheryl Wollin moved, wcond by Sheldon €3er�
MSP Adjourn Then being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Directon
moves to adjourn.
Paused unanimously on a voice vote.
r,
no meeting adjourned 10.07 P.M.
PROVED JULY M 1995
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:I
LVANS i ON 0 1 V BLIC
L I BRA RY'
Church & Orrington, Evanston, Illinois 60201
Phone:1708)866-03oo rax: (708)866-0313
Rewudw at Tbanu ter Gauze& IL Jam
Wberens, aertrude K.'Trudy" Jones has been an employee of the Evanston Public Library since
June 2nd, 1969, and
Wher=i , Trudy served the Library as Head of Children's Services for seventeen years, and
Whereas, her service to the Library has been marked by passion, enthusiasm, creativity, and
intelligence, and
Whemos, Trudy has shared her love of books and reading with countless children, enriching each
of their lives as a result, and
When2s,Ttudy's care and attention to book selection and collection management has resulted in
a collection that will be of value to our community for many years to come, and
,V1beregN Trudy's advocacy of improved library service for children has also resulted in strong
collections of juvenile audiovisual materials and a sophisticated level of access to electronic information
resources for children, and
Whems% Trudy has represented time Library ably in the community and has served our educators
and child cart: givers well, and
Wberears, on June 10, 1995, Trudy retired from employment at the Evanston Public Library, and
Wberess, Trudy will be sorely missed by the Library's Board, staff, and patrons.
Now '11wr fore Be It Resolved, that the Evanston Public Library Board of Directors does extend
its grateful thanks to Gertrude K. Jones and wishes her well in her future endeavors.
BeIt FVrdw Resub d, that a framed copy of this tesolution be transmitted to Mrs. Jones as a
token of our appreciation.
Approved this 20th Day
of June, 5
President
., � °'� ecfCigt�► T
r y
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
July 18, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
Libraty's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowlez, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock, Michael Ctwviintes,
Drew 11cindel, Ellen Newcomer, Ann Weirs, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Sheldon Garber
ALSO PRESENT Alderman Emily Guthrie
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Children's Services Head Janice Bojda
PRESIDING Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7,40 P.M.
i
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of June 20 were: reviewed.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Drew Heindel,
MSP Approval
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
=
of Minutes of
of the Library Board meeting of June 20, 1995 as received.
-
6/20195
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
COMMENTS BY
None.
CITIZENS
REPORT FROM NEW
Janice Bojda, the new Head of Children's Services, expressed her pleasure at joining
=
CHILDREN'S
the staff of the Library. Upon her arrival she was surprised at the small size of the staff
LIBRARIAN
relative to the activity measures of the library (books circulated, questions naked, etc.).
After she has a chance to settle into the job, Ms. Bojda will return and give a report to
the Board on her impressions of the state of Children's Services.
3
OLD BUSINESS
a
Internet Policy
Marlene Harris reported that sixty people attended the Internet prc.view. Two computers
_
will be available for public access to the Internet on July 31st. There will be minimal staff
assistance with the Internet, however, volunteer tutors are being trained to help patrons
during busy times. Two phrases will be added to the proposed Internet policy: "die
Library neither monitors nor controls access to, or use of, the Internet" and 'Me Internet
may contain material that is inappropriate for vi: wing by children".
Drew Heindel moved, second by Michael Cervantes,
MSP Internet
The Evanston Public Library BoW of Directors moves to approve the Internet policy
Policy
as amended.
Passed unanimously on a voicevote.
4W
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August ?fleeting Considering people's vacation plans, there was a discussion &'bout the number of Bo&ttd
members able to attend the August Board meeting.
Gloria Bullock moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP August The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to ca=l the August meeting of
Meeting the Library Board.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
COMMI'MEIREPRFSENTATIVE REPORTS
Space Planning
"There was no meeting. Drew Heindel reported that the dedication plaque had been
and Physical
installed. Alley resurfacing will begin shortly and be funded by the Library project.
Facilities
Materials and
There was no meeting.
Services Policy
Managerneut
There was no meeting,
Policy
Development
'Mere was no meeting.
Fall Fund
The fund raiser committee agreed an a ticket price of $75.00 per person. All proceeds
Raiser
will be used to purchase library materials. Camille Blachowicz asked if a lower priced
event was being considered. In the future, the Foundation is expected to pursue -high
end" fundraising, and the Library Friends wit[ organize less expensive, broader based
events.
At this time, Alderman Guthrie arrived to introduce a fundraising project - selling
coverlets with an Evanston theme. Members of the Library Board thought this was a
wonderful idea and a Worthwhile project. Camille Blachowicz recommended asking the
'
Library Friends if they would want to take on the project. Cheryl Wallin and Emily
Guthrie will make a presentation at the next Friends meeting.
Drew Heindel moved, second by Michaei Cerv;ames,
MSP Coverlet
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approach the Friends with
Project
the covcr-lct fund raising project. If the Friends decline, the Board will pursue the project.
Passed unrnimously on a voice vote.
Annual Report
Mr. Hcindel expressed cencaern over the close timing of the upcoming solicitations in the
annual report mailing and benefit invitation mailing. Ellen Newcomer suggested sendin+g
the first batch of annual repasts to the people on the invitation list for the benefit and
including an insert in the annual report about the benefit_
Mr. Heindel discussed the request from the graphic designer for additional funds due to
the changes in the text and layout of the annual report.
Ann Weise moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP The Evanston Public Literary Board of Directors moves to approve the expenditure of
Annual Report $3,850. from Book Sale funds for the request from lack Weiss Associates for additional
charges related to l rt.pmng the annual rt post.
Passed unanirmusly ou a toll call vote.
2
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North Suburban 'There was no report.
-
Library System
Strategic The Executive Service Corps will he distributing a Library WIf•assesstnent questionnaire
Planning to the Library Board and Administrative Team. The Planning Committee will meet on
Committee August 31 st to plan the agenda for the retreat The planning retreat is scheduled for
September 6th in the Community Meeting Room.
Exteriur Art Mr. Heindel reported tint the final sculpture designs will be presented on October 12th.
Committee Any surplus funds will riot becomo part of the public an education fund as stated on the
budget memo by Jonathan Glus, but will be controlled by the Library Board. Ellen
Newcomer stated that it is imperative that the Library owns the copyright for the
sculpture, especially since Library funds arc paying for it. Cheryl Wollin will contact
Jonathan Glus about the copyright ownership.
PRESIDENTS Ms. Wollin discussed a possible staff recognition event towards the end of the year.
REPORT
VICE PRESIDENTS Ms. Newcomer prescnted the financinl report for the four months ending June 30, 1995.
REPORT The North Branch rent income may be affected by a rent-free buildout period for a new
tenant. The Friends book sale wea a big success.
LIBRARY Neal Ney presented the Library activities report for the month of June, and spoke of the
DIRECTOR'S REPORT 20.25% increase is circulation to Evanston residents. The ALA grant application for
fundraising training has been approved.
NEW BUSR40S
Budget FY96.97 The Board discussed a memo from Paul Gottschalk detailing the need for additional
maintenance staff, Them was a consensus that the building has to he well -maintained and
that this position is necessary. Several members of the Board expresscd concerns about
the limited custodial staff and possible consequences to the building.
Archibald Br-iant movers, second by Ann Weise,
MSP Additional The Evanston Public Library Relator of Dimctors moves to approve the addition of
Maintenance staff one Custodian in the FY96-97 budget proposal.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Other staffing needs wers discussed, including a public relations position and more
security monitors. The strategic planning process should address staff resources. The
Board instructed Neal Ney that the budget transmittal memo should highlight the Board's
concerns about the need for additional security and prsfessional staffing.
Neal Ney discussed a proposal for Per Capita Grant expenditures that altacatcs additional
funds for purchasing library materials.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Per Capita The Evanston Public Library Iluard of Directors moves to approve the expenditure of
Grant the Per Capita Grant as follows: $70,000 for library materials; $15,000 for
automation; $3,541 for processing supplies; S3,000 for capital expenditures.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
_� j
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Neal Ney proposed three capital expenditure requests.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
MSP Capital 'The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to recommend to the
Expenditures Library Friends that the following items be purchased with book We funds: an
electric stapler, two microfilm lenses, and two paperback browsers.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Neal Ney discussed a proposed plan for purchasing materials in FY96.97, Including funds
raised for the Fund for Excellence and by the Library Friends.
Archibald Bryant moved, second by Ann Weise,
MSP Materials The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the budget
Expenditures for materials expenditures as proposed.
Passr.,d unanimously on a voice vote.
Transfer of Neal Ney discussed the issues involved in transferring the Library's endowment to the
Endowment Foundation for the Evanston Public Libras•/, including the legality of the proposed
transfer. An opinion from an attorney specializing in not -for -profit law will be sought.
Neal Ncy was directed to draft a letter addressing the relevant questions,
Drew Plcindel moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Endowment The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to seek a legal opinion
Transfer on the transfer of the Endowment funds to the Library's Foundation.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Board Committee President Wollin proposed having die Board meet as a Committee of the Whole on the
Meeting Schedule first Tuesday of cacti month as a means of streamlining the decision -making process. Tins
meeting would reptace the separate committee meetings that are often difficult to
schedule. Ad -hoc cornmitt= would be appointed as needed to address big issues. The
first Committee of the Whole meeting will be on Tuesday. October 3rd at 7:30 p.m.
Since this was her last official meeting, Ann Weise expressed her appreciation for being
able to work with such a wonderful and talented Library Board.
ADJOURNMENT Archibald Bryant moved, second by Drew Heindel,
MSP Adjourn Them being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Directors
moves to adjourn.
Paused unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned 1035 P.M.
3
` 4d
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3-a�-
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-A MEMO
Mee"
f ._..
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
September 19, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Camille Blachowim Doris Brown, Gloria Bullock, Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Gather,
Drew Heindei, Ellen Newcomer, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT
Archibald Bryant
STAFF PRESENT
Library Director Neal J. Noy
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlervs Harris
Head of Readers' Advisors Laura Dudaik
Head of Children's Services Jan Bojda
Circulation Supervitor Charles Elftmann
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CITIZENS PRESENT
Brett Snodgrass of Playhouse
PRESIDING
Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER
President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M.
COMMENTS FROM
None.
CITIZENS
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of July ISth were reviewed and one change
made. Sheldon Garber recommended that the Board minutes he signed by the Board
Secretary.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Camille Blachowim
WISP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of of the Library Board meeting of July 18, 1995 as amended,
7/18/95 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The Board next reviewed the minutes of the Strategic Planning Committee. (Gloria
Bullock entered at this time.)
Camille Blachowicx moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of of the Strategic Planning Committee for the meetings of July 15, 1995 and
7115195 and August 31, 1995, as received.
8/31/95 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
OLD BUSINESS
Playhouse Proposal Mrs. Wollin moved this agenda item up since Playhouse's representative, Brett
Snodgrass, was present. Mr. Snodgrass thanked the Board for hearing him, and spoke of
this theater group. which is looking for a home in Evanston, after three years in Chicago.
They are planning the world premiere of a piece compiled from interviews with
Evanston residents, A Life in Dreams, which will be appropriate fnr audiences of all
ages. It is an examination of dreams and the subconscious, and will feature actors who
reptrsent a cross section of the Evanston community, including disabled actors.
Playhouse, which plans two shows on Saturdays and one on Sundays, is a nonprofit
organization and is ra!iciting grants for this series. Tickets would be $8 each but no one
would be unned away. Mm hours of tht shows would coincide with Libm ho.irt and
sceri ry will be brolten down ai the end of each day so that the roost world be tradable.
for other group o'tuirig the week. Rchtar.Ws am planncd for a site cu, of ft Ubmy.
,.. .. •IT" �-1f'1-N�� "��4'•�'�• -{r � i �u{-i n- ,--.�i�`r "�.'.�i�:-'S, _ �v r .� �'ii-N il'11145 T1 �i.t',I.Ti4Rb
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Mr. Snodgrass colI his prescntatlon and thanked the Board for heating
''
� # , - • ". Boardmembers thanked him for his explanation of the Playhouse Proposal, and fie Ion.
,r;.
Board members decided to hold further discussion of the proposal until Drew Heindel
�
joined the meeting.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Table lice Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to table the Playhouse
Playhouse Proposal for future consideration.
Proposal Pkued unanimously on a voice vote.
COMMTI'I'EWREPRESUNT'ATiVE REPORTS
Space Planning There was no report.
and Physical
Facilities
Materials and In the absence of Committee chair Archibald Bryant, there was no report.
Services Policy
Management 'there was no report.
Policy
Development Michael Cervantes asked Ms. Newcomer to discuss plans for the upcoming Library
Birthday Party. Invitations have been mailed with a reply card offering a choice of
attending the party or donating a lesser amount. Mrs. Wollin said that $5.1 SO had
already been received. Ms. Newcomer reported that a significant number of donors who
had not previously participated in any Library fund-raising activity had sent in donations
to the party.
The Annual Report was mailed to businesses with a cover letter. The next step is mailing
the report to those on the Library's Donor list, with a different cover letter.
I11s. Newcomer suggested that some funds be earmarked for mailing costs and to cover
salaries for students to do the mailing work. The Committee of the Whole will plan the
next steps for the p?sty. Mrs. Wollin said the party, a Board mponsibilhy, is for "a
y terrific causer' 'including collection enrichment and reference materials on CD-ROM.
Mrs. Wollin also reported that many autographed books had been received for the silent
auction.
North Suburban There was no report.
Library System
PRESIDENTS Mrs. Wollin reported that the Library Project Finance Committee will meet during
REPORT the second week of October. The Library Project Contingency Fund was also discussed.
Neal Ney and Mrs. Wollin plan to attend an American Library Association (ALA)
conference on Fund Raising - the fees will be covered by a grant from the ALA.
Mrs. Wollin also mentioned that a sample of the Library afghan will be unveiled at the
Birthday Party. The Evanston Library Friends will have a table at the party to take order[
for the afghan. It is hoped that the Evanston Library Friends will earmark money from
sales of the afghan for collection development.
VICE PRESIDENTS Ms. Newcomer presented the financial reports for the five months ending July 31, 1995.
REPORT and the six months ending August 31. 1995, Mr. Cervantes said the figures were right on
target. To a question on copier revenue and quality, Paul Gottschalk explained that the
copiers arc leased, and that there is not much choice of vendors for the specific type of
book -edge copying machines the Library requires. Other vendors arc being sought.
d
3
7M
Ai
t eft l CK" d ttt t6'Prieti6l' Board met last week. She said that Dartieila
Pick4d, Chair of die Miends' Program Committee, has secured "amw-zing programs"
for presentation at the Library. Neal Ney said the Friends have scheduled semirtars im
Alzlteimcrs Disease, a one -act play, and lectures on psychological fitness and family
management.
Ms. Newcomer spoke of the coming book WC, at which volunteers will work in two-h4mr
shifts. She and Mts. Wollin will work at the sale, pod Mrs. Blachowicz will coordinals
the volunteers. The ongoing book sale+ were also discussrAl.
LIBRARY DiRECrOR'S Mr. Noy prewnled the activities reports for July and August, 1995. He spoke of sevcrnl
REPORT incidents at the Library invol%ing stolen bicycles, a flasher, a bleeder, and vandalism,
and how they were handled by staff: He has planned articles for th+, Library's monthly
Newsffarhes, in which one section of the Problem Situation Manual will be discussed In
each issue.
To a question an Library security, Mr. Ney said that there was no news on the missing
sculpture by Lehmbruck, but Ruth Weiner's ceramic piece, which is in its own case, is
firmly secured to the floor.
The Board's discretionary funds - Book Salo revenues and Gift Fund Revolving Interest,
will be ovemisent with the printing of the Annual Report and the bill for Strategic
Planning presented by the Executive Service Corps.
Marlene Harris spoke of the newspaper indexing project, which is proceeding quite well,
The question of a source to fund the project was discussed. 'fire Board moved to amend
the motion of April 18th concerning this project.
Doris Brown moved, second by Camille Blachowicz,
MSP Indexing The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to accept the proposal from
Project DataBase Designs to write a Paradox for Windows application to provide an online
index to the Evanston Review at a cost of $9.120.00, Work on this ptoject will not
begin until August of 1995, and the indexing is to begin in January, 1996. Funding
will be from the Library's Gift Fund. Reimbumment for this bill will be requesW
from the Library Project Contingency Fund and, if this is not available, the Evanstrrrt
Library Friends will be asked to fund this project.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
NEW BUSINESS
Playhouse Proposal The Board resumed discussion of this matter. Mr. Cervantes askW whether the
Library had learned anything from Northlight Tbeatrc's use of the Community Meeting
Room. Mr. Ney said that it had entailed a great amount of work for the maintenance
staff, produced very good public relations, And caused slight damage to the building frx
which Northlight had paid; the benefit event for which the Library and Northlight had
contracted is still open. Playhouse's scenery would to low impact. entailing rro problems
for Library staff. A life in Drearns will be family theater, and good for the community.
An exception to Board policy was considered, so that admission could be charged, as well
as a fee for Playhouses use of the room. Mr. Heindel asked whether the Board should
continue to permit organizations charging a fee to use our meeting rooms, thus setting a
precedent, but Mrs. Wollin said that a free will offering, or a suggested donation, would
obviate that problem. Another consideration was that the Meeting Room Policy holds
that anyone can join any meeting or activity taking place in the Library's meeting rooms.
Board members fell uncomfortable about tying up the room for one organization, forcing
out other not•for-profit organizations. Mr. Garber felt that the Library should show itself
hospitable to an innovative idea with broad participation by the community.
Mrs. Blachowicz said a theater piece composed of interviews with Evanstoniuts coincides
with the Librwy's minion statement - a literary performance relating to Evanston, It was
3
F
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suggested that the Library offer its rrxmM1 t 4 e egi1� err r1*1 tILMAJO �rt � Lin , opc to
the public. _ .
Several Board members pointed out that there are other sites available,
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Playhouse The Evanston Public Literary Board of Directors moves to reject the Playhouse
Pmposal proposal for a family presentation.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Mr. Ney will convey the Board's decision to Playhouse, as well as the Hoard's suggestion
that Playhouse hold a reading theater presentation or a rehearsal presentation in the
-
Community Meeting Room on one weekend and collection a free will offering rather than
a fixed admission.
Ms. Newcomer thanked Mr. Gottschalk for making the not -for -profit application-, she also
complimented Ms. Harris on the letter from Phil Farish and praised Mr. Ney's work on
the Choices for the 21 st Century progrcm.
Application Fee
Ms Newcomer thanked Mr. Gottschalk for making this application.
For Foundation
501(c)(3
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Camille Illachowicz,
MSP Application Fee
The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the expenditure
for Foundation
of $465 from the Library Gill Fund Revolving Interest account for the Library
_ 501(c)(3)
Foundation's 501(c)(3) application.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
' Registration
Mr. Ney explained that proposed changes in the Registration Policy were motivated by
= Policy
a case in wlfich an envelope mailed to a patron was returned by the Post Office. The
patron's library card was then voided, which angered the patron. Mr. Elftrnann,
Circulation Supervisor, recommended revisions to the policy, which now makes a
-
checkb(x)k acceptable as a form of identification to confirm the patron's current address.
-
It is also explicitly stated that the Library should be informed when a patron's address
changes. Mr. Elfimann also detailed an appeal process, in which patrons proving their
identity and Evanston residency satisfactorily to the Circulation Supervisor can obtain
Library cards.
-
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
MSP Registration The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the revised
Policy
Registration Policy.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Bulletin Board
The Board discussed location of this item, which is intended for announcements by
=
the Library Board and the Evanston Library Friends only.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Michael Cervantes,
— MSP Bulletin The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the
Board
expenditure of $288.50 in Library Gift Fund Revolving Interest for the
purchase of a bulletin board to be used in the lobby to post Library Board and
Evanston Library Friends announcements.
z:
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
4
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Exhibits Policy
Mt. Ney presented a propo&M flxhiblU 1Pulicy, under Which exhibits *OWAl W limittd
to not -for -profit organizations, and held in the blind and Physlcatly Handicapped Room,
No exhibits will be hung on the walls, and exhibitors will be responsible for insuring thteit
exhibits. Mr. Ney said that the American Library Association, the National Endowment
for the Humanities, and the Library of Congress have traveling exhibits, which would be
suitable for this space. The Library's only obligation toward these particular exhibits
would lr to host u reception and provide the space. (Mr. Heindel entered at this point.)
It was suggcsted that exhibits be permitted in the Library from one to three months from
time of tet up. A booking can be continuous or episodic, but must remain within the one
to three month limitation. This issue will be addressed by the Committee of the Whole,
and the Board will vote on it in October. Tlta Board did consent to host a March exhibit
on Women's History from the Evanston Historical Society.
Aldermanic The Board discussed use of the Library's paging system, and the definition of an
Reference emergency. the public address system is now used for closing annouocements. Board
consensus was that the Library has adequate emergency procedures in place and that the
Library's public address system should only be used for announcements that concern all
the patrons in the building. A draft tesponse will be prepared for the Board's
consideration.
Budget FY19137 This agrenda item was voted on in July, therefore no action was necessary at this time.
To a question from Ms. Newcomer on the decrease in funding of ruin Children's
Services Mr. Ney explained that all children's materials funds were previously listed as
part of Main Children's Services. In the present budget these materials are broken down
into Main, the branches, and the Bookmobile. Mr. Heindel spoke of the Hoard's restraint
in staffing and Mr. Gottschalk said that a City Council subcommittee will see the budget
before it goes to the full Council.
1995 Holiday Patty The Board will ask the Evanston Library Friends to cohost this party; Board members
felt strongly that the Library staff deserved recognition and appreciation.
Holiday Book Fund The Board's consensus was that the Holiday Boob Fund should again be handled by the
Evanston Library Friends. A mailing in the form of a letter and an attractive reply card is
preferred.
Audit FY 1994193 There was brief discussion on this.
ADJOLg4NM 4T Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Sheldon Garber.
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evamton Public Library Board of Directors
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned at 10.10 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted
.3.
4;
MEMBERS PRESENT
I
MEMBERS ASSENT
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Directors Meeting
October 17, 1995: -7:30 P.M.
Camille Blachowicz, Archibald Bryant, Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Gerber,
Drew Heindel, Cheryl Wallin
Doris Brown, Gloria Bullock, Ellen Newcomer
STAR PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Nay
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Head of Children's Services Jan Bajda
Clerk III Vicki Kirksey
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CITIZENS PRESENT None
PRESIDING Cheryl Wallin, president
CALL TO ORDER President Wallin called the meeting to order at 7:38 P.M.
COMMENTS FROM None.
CITIZENS
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of September 19th were reviewed and changes
suggested. (Archibald Bryant entered (lie meeting at this time.)
Michael Cervan!es moved, second by Camille Blachowicx,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of of the Library Board meeting of September 19, 1995 as amended.
9/19195 Pame i unanimously on a voice vote.
'the Board next reviewed the minutes of the Committee of the Whole.
Drew Heindel moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of of the October 3, 1995 meeting of the Committee of the Whole as received.
10V3/95 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
+311e�'. EF�tS
Aldermanic The Board reviewed the draft response to an aldrrmanic reference concerning the
Reference: Library's procedures for dealing with emergencies, with particular reference to the
Emergency events of September 5th,
Situations
Drew Heindel moved, second by Michael Cervantes,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the
Aldemtanic memorandum entitled "Aldenmanic Reference: Emergency Situations" as amended.
Reference There were rive ayes. Sheldon Garber abstained.
Reapaasa
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Exhibit Policy 1n response to a question from Mr. Cervantes, Neal Ney c xplaitz`d nisi"i SCl1 c1;Nj
organization is recognircd by the federal government as nut -for -profit, for purposes of
paying income tax. Board members spoke of exhibits in the Library as a way of re1whing t
out actively to the community. 1t was suggested that groups wanting to mount exhibits
but not having the time or expertise to do so professionally might be referred to the
Evatston Historical Society, Evanston Township High School's an department or other
Ruch groups.
There was further discussion conceming the importance of a spirit of inclusion and n 14ter
review of the policy. It was decided that the policy should be revised to inccrpomte
inclusive language. It will be reviewed at the Board's November meeting. (Vicki
Kirksey entered the meeting tit this point.)
Mr. Garber raised a concern about the way in which the Board operates, He thought that
the hoard spent too much time dealing with peripheral issue., that the committee structure
was not active and that consequently discussions that should take place at the committee
level took place instead at Board meetings, and that it was inappropritite for staff
recommendations to come to the Board without committee review. He thought that
preparing budget proposals to increase the City's funding for the Library was the type of
issue that the Board should be dealing with. President Wollin reminded Mr. Garber that
the Board had decided in July to replace the existing committee structure with a regularly
scheduled meeting of the Committee of the Whole. Matters that required more discussion
or consideration than could be devoted to them at a Board meeting were to be dealt with
at the subsequent Committee of the Whole mceting. Air. Garber thought that this would
be a waste of time; it %voutd amount to no more than two Board meetings a month, with
one meeting being held to vote on things that had Men decided at the other meeting. He
felt that Board committees should be actively involved in reviewing staff
recommendations before they came to the Board; the Board should only be considering
the recommendations of its committees.
= Library Director Ney suggested that if the Board wanted to have all matters considered by
its committees before they went to the Board, perhaps Board members could keep the first
Tuesday free on their calendars. Whichever committee meetings were necessary could
then be scheduled for that time rather than holding the monthly meeting of the Committee
of the Whole. Mr. Bryant said that he thought it was too early to evaluate the operations
of the Committee of the Whcle. Several Board members indicated that they preferred the
monthly Committee of the Whole meeting rather than trying to schedule separate
committee meetings. Mr. Garber indicated that he thought such a procedure was wasteful
of Board energy. He thought that a functioning committee structure would shorten the
length of Board meetings and would focus them on the important issues. He hoped that
the Strategic Planning Working Group dealing with governance would addr= these
issues and recommcrd a committee structure for the Board. 1 he Board decided to
continue meeting on the first Tuesday as a Committee of the Whole and asked that all
staff recommendations be brought to the Committee of the Whole rather than going
directly to the Board. Tltc Board President will assign items to the appropriate
committees, which %gill meet to deliberate to needed. It is hoped that many if not all of
these meetings can take place at die Committee of the Whole meeting times.
COMMI717MEIREPRF.SENTAUVE REPORTS
Space Planning There was no report.
and Physical
Facilities
Materials and There was no report.
Services Policy
10
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Management
There was no rep(M.
Policy
r
Development
Thera was no report.
North Suburban
There was no report.
t5
Library System
PRESIDENTS
A sheet distributed at the meeting Indicated that the total income from the fund-raising
REPORT
party was $23,155.50 and that the expenses were $9.686.15, leaving a net Income of,
$13,468,36. Mrs, Wallin said that more than $4,000 had been received from the annual
report ensiling, and she expressed thanks on heltalf of the Board to the Party Committee
for its hard work. 'there were no glitches, and most bills have been received. Mr. Bryant
suggested that, since most guests seemed to want to sit and chat with people they had not
seen in a while, there be music suitable to quiet conversation at the next party. 'there
could also be a fund-raising event, possibly another silent auction. The Development
Committee will review suggestions regarding future parties,
VICE PRESIDENT'S Since Vice -President Newcomer was abssni, President Wallin asked Paul Gottschalk If Ile
REPORT had any comments on the financial report far the seven months ending September 30,
1995. Mr. Gottschalk pointed out that the Library was currently running a negative
balance in the main library Book Sate account. This is due to the annual report going
over budget and to charging the newspaper indexing project to this account. Both
expenses are to be reimbursed fmm other Sources. Mr. Gottschalk also said that he
thought the Library's spending was ahead of where it should be if we were to stay within
our budget. This is due primarily to maintenance expenditures and temporary salaries.
Mr. Garber thought that this was not surprising and That it presents a good opportunity to
demonstrate the inadequacy of the City's funding of the Library. Mr. Heindel indicated
the budget for FY 1995-96 was very conservative and prepared with very little informntiun
about the operating requirements of the new building. The board asked that Library staff
prepare a projection budget for them to review at the November meeting of the
Committee of theWhoie, Staff was also asked to bring the budget submitted to the City
Manager back for further Board review. President Wallin pointed out that it was at
3 present too late to amend the budget presented to the City Manager. but that it would he
passible to propose changes to the City Council and that it may be necessary to defend
even the modest changes proposed in the budget submitted to the City Manager.
Evanston Library The Board reviewed the minutes of the Evanston Library Friends' Board meeting,
Friends
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Mr. Ney presented the activities report for September, 1995. There were no questions.
REPORT
NEW BUSU40S
Staff Christmas
Party
Expenses and funding for a staff recognition holiday party were discussed. The Library
Board will ask the Evanston Library Friends to donate up to S1,000 from Book Sale funds
for this staff appreciation event, to which book sale and main library volunteers will also
be invited. Staff members and guests will pay $3. members of the Library Board and the
Friends Board will be charged the full $15 pticc.
3
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Fund -Raising Discussion now turned to the staff recommendation for ilic purchase of fund-raising
Software software using Book Sale funds. President Wollin pointed out that this should rightly he
Old Business, since the Board had previously considered the matter. Mr. Oarber said that
it was inappropriate for such a recommendation to conic it) the Board without committee
review and that it would be unwise to make such a purchase without having the software
reviewed by Board members with expertise in the area of fund raising, Mr. Bryant
pointed out that staff had done exactly what they had been asked to do; tlicy had Conic
back to the Board with a recommendation, President Wollin said that she thought it was
important to make this purchase. The people working on the mailing for the party had
had to put in a lot of cxiru work because of weaknesses of the existing software used to
maintain the mailing list. Mr. Garber tvitcrnted his concern that a decision like this
requires comrniucc review and said that he thought it would be a mistake to choose this
kind of software on the basis of price. Development programs could be ruined by a poor
choice of software. The matter was referred to the Development Committee;
Mr. Cervantes will schedule a committee meeting.
State Library's Mr. Ncy explained that Section A of the Management Profile prepared by the Library
Management Profile Research Center will be redone to correct errors. He will request a change in the
comparison group, so that it will use Icn System libraries whose population figures arc
close to that of Evanston.
Public Art The Board rcvic%cd a sketch by Ralph Helmick of proposed art for the western
fa;ade of the Library building. and a inaquette by Richard Hunt. Questions of durability,
practicality. and visibility were discussed. Mr. Heindcl said that the Hunt piece would be
made of stainless steel, had an intriguing presence, wa% figurative yet abstract. and
presented different view% from inside and out of the Library. It would tx very reflective
at first but that would diminish over the first several years. It is projected to be I I feet
tail, higher than the pillars at the corners of that fa4ade. Mr. Hunt is a well-known
African•Amcrican sculptor.
Sheldon Garber moved. second by Camille Blachowicz.
MSP Exterior The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the sculpture
Sculpture submitted by Richard Hunt for the western fagade of the building and to
recommend that library Project Finance Committee approve this Ficcc.
Passed unanimously on a voicc vote.
The Board adjoitined into executive session at 10:24 P.M. to discuss personnel matters.
President Wollin announced that the Board would conclude its business at the close of the
executive session and would not rcconvene in open session.
Respectfully Submitted
r
Drew Heindel. Acting Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Directors
APPROVED NOVEMBER 21.1995
MEMBERS PRESEN'i'
MEMBERS ABSENT
!�'�.��( ;�:r Fes• ,-�,
APPOOVEID JANUARY—LI ,1M
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of 'frustces Meeting
November 21, 1995; 7:30 P.M.
Library'% Board Room
Camille Blrtchowicr., Dori% Brown, Gloria Bullock, Sheldon Garber,
Ellen Newcomer, Cheryl Wollm
Archibald Bryant, Michael Cervantes, Drew Heindel
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Ncal L Ney
Administrative. Services Munagcr Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlcne Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
PRESIDING Chcryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:40 P.M.
'lice minutes of the library Board meeting of October 17, 1995 were reviewed.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Camille Blachowicx,
MSP Approval
'lltc Evanston Public library Board of Tru%ices movcs to approve the minutes
of Minutes of
of the library Board meeting of October 17, 1995 as received.
ILV17/95
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
'litc Board recommended one change in the minutes of the Committee: of Whole
meeting.
Camille Blachowici moved, .ccond b) Gloria Bullock,
MSP Approval
'Ilse Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of the
of the Noveniner 7, 1995 meeting of the Committee of the Whole us amended.
Committee of the
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Whole, 11/7195
llAc Board accepted as received the minutes of the October 12, 1995 meeting of the
Planning Committee.
COMMENTS BY None.
CITIZENS
01_D BUSINESS
Exhibits Policy The library Board changed the indemnification language in this policy slightly.
Sheidcm Garber moved. second by Doris Brown,
_ MSP Exhibits '11ir Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the Exhibits
Policy Policy as amended.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote,
�"- . _ - - - - --_ - - _ -- , - � ,t.. � - +- n• . - +. ,. - - ,A ,' ,e-n nT : . i r �p in n <n ,� �, ri�.,.1i .�ln R+ i �+'n.'>�"_
Committee of the
Whole
Fee Schedule Gloria Bullock moved, second by Doris Brown,
IVTSP Fee The Evanston Public library Board of Trustees moves to approve (fie Exec Schedule
Schedule as received.
Pored unanimously on a voice vote.
Resolution Doris Brown moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
M5I' The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the Resolution of
Resolution of Thanks for the Party Committee as received.
Thanks for the Passed unanimously on a voice vote. (Resolution attached)
Party Committee
Development The next item on the agenda was the acceptance of the gift of fund-raising software
from the Evanston Library Friends. In the absence of Development Committee chair
Michael Cervantes, )Board Member Sheldon Garber reported that he had spoken to [lie
chairman about this matter.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Accept The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moved to accept the gift of
Software Gift fund-raising software offered by the Evanston Library friends.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
PRESIDENTS Mrs. Wollin discussed the City Manager's request for a S6AX) cut in the Library budget.
REPORT Therc was some discussion about the Library Building Project funds that the Library
Project Finance Committee had committed to the Library. Mrs. Wollin said that the
Council welcomes knowledge of library's needs and requirements, and is aware that the
Library's collections are the Board's first priority. Board members discussed the large
deficit In collection development caused by the inability of funding for that Library asset
to even keep pace with inflation uvet the past ten years.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Camille Biachowicz.
MSP 'Elie Evanston Public Library Board of -trustees moves to approve a resolution
Resolution calling upon the City Council to approve the Library Project Finance Committee's
proposal for the di%po%ition of funds remaining n the Library Building Project
budget, and oppipsing any reduction in the Library's proposed budget as submitted
to the City Manager +m Sepicmr�er 15, 1945.
Passed unanimously tin a voice vote. (Resolution attaOied)
VICE PRESIDENTS Ms. Newcomer asked Paul Gottschalk to review the financial report for the eight months
REPORT ending October 31. 1995. Mr. Gottschalk said that revenues in most accounts, including
room rentals. Fines and fees, and lost books, were up, while some budget lines have been
overspent.
his. Newcomer asked about the distribution of this year's Fund for Exectlence money.
Neal Ncy sugrc%tcd that the Fund for Excellence and the Endowment fund interest
should he distributed at the same time, so that all projects could be weighed and evaluated
at the same time. 'Die Endowment Fund interest has been distributed in Aiareh for t}tc
past few years. thus providing the Board and staff with the opportunity to sce what had
happened during the City Council's budget deliberations before making a commitment
with these collection development funds. Ms. Newcomer raised a concern about some of
the commiunenic that the Board had made last year that might be coming due soon. She
M
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was part icularly'concerned Arut the subscriptions to the CD-ROM dutabases for the
Reference Department, and the approval plans for art boosts and recorded books. Sonle
Board members raised a concern about using phil,,nthropic funds to support ongoing
costs. Mr. Ncy stated that he thaughl that the CD-ROM subscriptions and the recorded
book approval plans could be covered with Per Capita Grant funds in FY 1996-97, so that
the problem was to cover the transition period. The art books, on the other hand, he
thought were oppropriutely purchased with donated money since the purchusscs were for
materials that went beyond what one would expect to find in most public libraries.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the expenditure of
CD-ROM, ART $25,000 from the Fund for Excellence to support the purchase of CD-ROM databases
AND RECORDED for the Reference Department, and the approval plans for art hooks and recorded
BOOKS books.
Passed unanimously on a cull call vote.
Evanston Library Ms. Newcomer spoke of the work of the Evanston Library Friends. The Holiday Book
Friends Fund mailing will lie done November 27th, and volunteers are needed. The Bonk Safe
also needs volunteers. Blanche Gildin, Book Salo Coordinator, expects revenue from this
sale to exceed that of previous sale. Donations of library materials are accelerating.
Tberr will he an orientation for bix)k sale volunteers, a special preview sale for them, and
they are invited to the party that the Library Board and Evanston Library Friends' Board
are hosting for (lie Library staff.
Ms. Newcomer spoke of the programs the Friends have brought to the Library through
their Program Commiuce, and of the excellent job done by Danielle Pickard, Committee
Chair. Family Night was attended by over 600 people, an excellent outreach program that
brought in a much more diverse group than ever before.
Mr. Garber pointed out that dtc book sales, the Holiday Rot)k Fund, and the annual report
add to the community's interest in the Library. He suggested an event at which the
Library would display new books; people would "buy" whichever txmks they preferred,
and a book plate would be placed in the boos, honoring. the " purchawr."
LIBRARY Neat Ncy presented the Library activiiic% report for the month of October. There were no
DIRECTOR'S REPORT questions.
In response to a question from Ms. Newcomer, Ms. Hams said that about 60 people had
atirtided the la_<t public Internet class. The Internet docents are all adults, and many of
them belong to the Evanston Literary Friends. Mr. Ncy said one -ices people at the
Reference terminals playing games.
NEW BUSINESS
Report on Fund- Mrs. Wollin spoke of the three -clay fund-raising workshop she and Mr. Ncy attended.
Raising Workshop presented by the American Library Association and the Fund -Raising School of
Indiana University. She showed slides on tilt workshop, the first of which held the slogan
y "fund raising is the gentle art of persuading people to experience the joy of ,giving." The
workshop focused on vehicles of giving, (tic human resources necessary, stressed that all
members of an organization should participate. The CEO brines vision and authority to
this effort, a mission statement needs values. 'Iltc roles of the committer chairs were
discussed, as well as stewardship, timuegy, cultivation of donor lists, the qualities of the
individual prospects and involving them as Library advtx�ales, the composition of a tuiard
and its philosophy. 'Mere is much work for the Board w do. Attendees did %mall group
role playing, and the importance of face•to-face solicitation was emphasized. Mr. Ncy
stressed the importance of an annual campaign.
3
ADJOURNMENT
MSP Adjourn
RespacifullY Submitted,
Camillc Oluchowicz moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
There being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
moves to adjourn.
Prised unanimously on a voice vote.
The inceting adjourned 10:(X) P.M.
El
len
Newcomer, Acting Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
4
A1311ROVEDJAaUARY 16.1996
EV.Pi i'ON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
January 16, 1996; 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowis:z, Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant, Michael Cervantes,
Sheldon Garber, Nt:w Ilcindel, Ellen Newcomer Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Gloria Bullock
STAR PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ncy
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
CITIZENS PRESENT None
PRESIDING Cheryl Wollin. President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:41 P.M.
COMMENTS FROM None.
CITIZENS
The minutes of the Library [Board meeting of November 21. 1995, (if the Management
Policy Committee mccting of December 19, 1995, and the Strategic Planning Committee
meetings of Novensfer 16, 1995, December 1A 1995 and January 9. 1996 were
reviewed.
Michael Cervantes moved, second by Drew Hcindcl,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes of
Minutes the Library Board meeting of November 21,1995. the Management Policy
Committee mccting of Dcccmber 19, 1995, and the Strategic Planning Committee
meetings of November 16. 1995, December 14, 1995 and January 9, 1996 as
received.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
OLD BUSINESS
Library Building
Project Budget
Discussion of this agenda item was postponed until later in the meeting, at which lime
the Board discussed strmcgy for securing a portion or the remaining Library Building
Project funds for Library purposes The Library Project Finance Committee approved a
proposal to transfer S250,000 front the Library Building Project budget for other City
projects and to reserve the remaining funds for library automation and collection
devchipment needs. The City Council has delayed consideration of the remaining Library
Building Project fuss&, until the Capital Improvement Plan is reviewed on February lthh.
The Board will make a pscsentation during the Citizens Comment section of the January
22nd meeting of the City Council. Sheldon Garber noted that the bonding document that
made the new Library building possible specifics that the funds arc for the Library, and
Mr. Heindel stated that this is money that has been allocated for the Library. Dr. Gloria
Bullock, Secretary of the Evanston Library Board of Trustees, will be asked to read a
Board resolution as d►c Council meeting. Board members from the Library Board and the
Friends' Board will attend, to show support for the Library. Mrs. Wollin and Drew
Heindel will speak during the Citizen's Comment period.
r.' ter" <s_.. a x ,:: •hr�7 ,,f � �'7 sip. ` Y h I ' Y
The Librti y, said Mr. Garber, is an anchor tctructure in the revitalixatlos o
Evanston, not just a warehouse. The Library serves the cultural needs of a diverse
population. All Evanston loves the new building; the Library Board and citizens have
thanked the City for it. 'Fite ability of the Library to serve should not be endangered by
making the Library an empty shell.
COMMITTEEIREPRESENTAI VE REPORTS
Management Flien Newcomer spoke of the budget tutorial Paul Gottschalk conducted for the
Policy Committee, during which expenditures wen broken out into four categories. Copies
of this breakdown were distributed at the meeting. Ms. Newcomer pointed out that since
only two members of the Committee were able in attend the tutorial. this was not an
official meeting and minutes were not prepared. Some line itemx are repeated from year
to year, and the Library budget lim remained static for many years. The role of the
Library Board in budgeting was discussed. Mr. Garber felt that the 13omd should take an
activist role in budget prcprration, and submit a budget to the City Council in July.
Strategic Plan objectives and budget objectives should be tied together.
Board members raised the question of the impact of rising costs in the education and
publishing industries on the Library's material costs. the possible nerd for n:w budget
lines was referred to the Management Policy Cvmmitice. Consensus was that electronic
resources - CD-ROM. Internet, Children's Room computers, ctc. - should be shown as
separate from materials and facility expenditures for purposes of analysis.
Mr. Gather suggested that the Board securt. from the John Buck Company the marketing
plan for the complex plann:d for the site where Washington National used to be, in order
_ to develop a profile of this doorstep markel and discover what new demands will be made
on the Library from the inhabitants of this development. Increased use of the Library is
anticipated from its 500 residential units.
PRESIDENTS Mrs. Wollin announced that she had received a check for $818 from Mr. Jewel, as credit
REPORT from rite Library Birthday Party.
The new database software. Paradigm, has been installed and Marlene Harris is working
an the parameters. This item will he on the February agenda of the Board's Committee of
the Whole.
Mrs. Wollin drew the Board's attention to a memorandum to the Mayor and Aldermen
from Dona Gerson, a staunch Lib M. supporter, stating that the Library Building Project
1'und!. should be used for the Library, not directed to other City programs.
A fetter to Mrs. Wollin from Evanston Library Friends' President Jay Carow concerning a
plaque to honor Evanston Library Friends Sustaining (life time) members was discussed.
(Archibald Bryant crttcred at this point.) Concctns were expressed that the Fricnds may
have promised this form of honoring the Sustaining members without receiving prior
approval of the Library Board, and that a $1,000 contribution was not a large enough gift
to merit permanent recognition. The Board's consensus was L'tat space be provided in the
Community Meeting Room for the Friends to honor their Sustaining (life time) members.
The Friends will be asked to propose a plaque design to the Library Board.
VICE PRESIDENT'S Ms. Newcomer spoke of completely new Library donors, for the various funds and the
REPORT coverlet. She then raised questions on line items that were overspent. Paul Gottschalk
explained that costs of materials, specifically paper, have risen. The Library has run
many large printing jobs in conjunction with the opening of the ncu building, The public
y printers, which arc getting a lot of use, will eventually require a fee. due to the high cost
of their ink jet cartridges and paper. The Maintenance salary line is overspent due to
22 overtime caused by an increased work load shouldered by an inadequate number of ataff.
I
2
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t' Y
t Evanston Library The Board instructed the Library Director to dmlt a res�k 11i y rintti i?vartston
Friends Library Friends for their support of the staff holiday party,
Ms. Newcomer said that the new Bookmark will he distributed shortly. Blanche Gildin,
Book Sale Coordinator, needs volunteers to help set up and take down. At the December
meeting of the Friend^r' Board, Ms. Newcomer suggested that the Friends conduct
quarterly family programs at the Library on a Friday evening. 'Ihe Board supported tlti+t
suggestion.
Camille Blachowicr said it is grxxl to involve the Friends in tha Library's Strategic Ilan,
and Ms. Newcomer said tha Friends arc developing goals for their organization.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Neal Ney presented the activities reports for November and December, 1995. There weir
REPORT no questions. He announced that the Foundation for the Evanston Public: Library now has
tax-exempt status. At a suggestion from Mr. Bryant, it was decided that incident reports
will be placed to the Board packet rather titan being mailed, unless the incidents are quite
serious.
NEW BUSINESS
Holiday Schedule Questions were rnited about the logic of having the Library open until noon on
December 241h. Most people arc otherwise occupied that day, and traffic is very light at
the Library. Time off for Library staff could be adjusted accordingly, and the public
would be informed by signs posted in the Library.
Archibald Bryant moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Close Library The Evanston i'ublic Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the schedule of
December 24. 1996 holiday closing% for 1996. with the change that the Library will be closed the entire
day of December 24, 1996.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Purchases For The Ms. Newcomer suggerlcd asking the Friends for $8,000 for the Endowment Fund. in light
Evanston Library of the sttcccss of the hook talcs and the importance of investing the Endowment Fund.
Friends Bvuk Sale More easels, and a c+offce put for the Fricnds' programs, are needed.
Funds
Ellen Newcumcr moved, second by Camille Blachowicz,
MSP Book Sate The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees requests S8,000 in Book Sale
Funds funds from the Evanston Library Friends, to be transferred to the Library's
Endowment rund, and requests the purchase of easels at a coat not to exceed $450
and the purchase of a coffee pot at a cost not to exceed S 150.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Oakton Community Mrs. Wollin spoke to the Board about a letter from Oakton Community College,
College Proposal requesting free use at the Library's Community Meeting Room for a federally funded
program for senior cttwens called Humanities Treasures. Such use; would violate Board
policy concerning tecurring weekly events and rental fees. Although this is an outreach
program and the Library does Outreach and educational programs (Choices for the 2lst
Century, Internet training sessions 1, since the Library has no budget for public relations it
was felt that this program belonged under the aegis of the Evanston Library Friends. The
Library Directot was instructed to investigate whether there are any charges for
participants in this program, artd to consider the policy implications. The Board will
consider the matter at its February rnceting.
3
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ADJOURNMENT Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Camille Blachowicx,
MSP Adjourn Thcrc being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned 10:09 P.M.
Respectfully, Submitted,
4z�
Ellen Newcomer, Acting Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustccs
- D FEBRUARY k9996
4
t:.
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AMMER MARCH 19._'199b
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
February 20, 1996, 7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Cmunlllc Blachowicz, Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock,
Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindcl, Ellen Newcomer. Cheryl Wallin
MEMBERS ABSENT None
STAB PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
PRESIDING Cheryl Wallin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:38 P.M.
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of January 16, 1996 were reviewed,
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustee~ moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of of the Library Board rnccting of January 16. 1996 as received.
1/16/96 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
'Ilse Board accepted as received the minutes of the January 18. 1996 meeting of the
Strategic Planning Committee.
The Award recommended two changes in the minutes of the Committee of Whole
rnccting.
Camille Blachowicx moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of the of the February 6, 1996 meeting of the Committee of the Whole as amended.
Committee of the Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Whole, 2/6/96
' COMMENTS BY None.
CITIZENS
OLD BUSINESS
Mrs. Wollin moved review of the Strategic Plan to the end of the meeting, to facilitate
Board action on the other agenda items.
Evanston Library Mrs. Wollin had discussed this item with Drew Heindel in his capacity as architect. The
Friends Book Sale top of the banner will hang over the parapet, and two holes will be drilled 12 feet above
the ground to secure the bottom of the banner. Mrs. Wollin then removed her objections
to this project.
Drew Heindcl moved, second by Doris brown,
MSP Hook Sale
Banner
The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the installation
or new Hook Sale banner on the exterior of the Library building.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
PRPSIDENT'S Mrs. Wallin spoke of the City Council's vote on the Library 13rojcct Contingency Fund.
REPORT She said that the Evanston Library Friends (ELF) are searching for the most efficacious
way to alert their members about this vote in support of the Library. Mrs. Blachowic/.
said the Board should (bank the City Council for its vote in support of the Library.
Ms. Newcomer suggested that the Board think about its role in terms of planning the
wisest expenditure of these funds, and Mrs. Brown asked how collection funds are
allocated, Neal Ncy suggested contacting various community organization, during this
major collection upgrade, for suggestions on items they feel me needed, and Mr. Garber
suggested a public meeting. Mrs. Iilachowiez suggested surveying Community
organizations, and later highlighting the response made to their suggestions.
Mr. Garber said that the Library Huard present~ the Library budget, and the ELF should
be part of the budget support pnx:css. The role of the Hoard wtt% discusscd, as well as the
wide community support the Library enjoys.
VICE PRESIDENTS Nis. Newcomer said that aldermen are requesting quarterly reports from the Library
REPORT Director. Current Library bibliographies will he included in this mailing. his. Newcomer
Financial Report presented the financial report for the eleven months ending January 31, 1996. There
was a question about copier revenue and one about printers for public: use. Mr.
Gottschalk said the possibility of for -fee printers in the Library is being investigated.
Ms. Newcomer said that she walks through the Library building almost daily. and is
delighted at the heterogeneity of users, the huge range of people using the Library.
Evanston Library Ms. Newcomer spoke of the excellent response to the Holiday Book Fund, whose art
Friends work, contributed by the Evanston Library Friends, is new this year. She suggested
asking the Evanston Library Friends to contribute art work fur the memorial gift book
plates as well.
The Friends need three or four book carts for the lobby Soot. Sales. They will have wood
siding stained to match the Library's woodwork. These carts will cost $1,300, and
Ms. Newcomer spoke of possible underwriting of the cost of this purchase by small
businesses in Evanston. The Hoard's consensus was that it would be a better idea to ask
the Friends to purchase these with Book Sale funds.
In view of the length of the Friends' Board meetings, Ms. Newcomer suggested the
Friends be given a written report on Library Hoard activities, so that time will not be
spent at the meetings on an oral report. ELF input is needed for inclusion in the Library's
Strategic Plan. Mr. Garber asked for a Friends membership goal statement.
LIBRARY Neal Ncy presented the Library activities report for the month of February.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT Members discussed the article in the Library Director's report on the Illinois State Library
program Chnices for the 21sr Crntuty. Mr. Ney informed the Board that the progrnrns
at Evanston were among the better attended in the state, and they are good programs. The
Spanish language instruction is proceeding apace and there are plans to expand (his
community outreach project.
Mr. Ney showed the Board Jack Weiss' annual report, which mentions the annual report
his company created for the Library. Mr. Ncy suggested that because it is sometimes
difficult to coordinate schedules so that the Board can approve an item going to the City
Council for approval, the Board use the mechanism of its Executive Committee as
provided for in the bylaws for some of these approvals. Preliminary approval could be
given by the Board's Executive Committee, and the full Board could ratify the decision at
3
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NEW BUSINESS
Putchaso of.
Hampers
9-11UT caa rcccavc Duaru a117trtuval aaaSt.
Matlenu Harris announced that truining for Paradigm software is scheduled for all day art
March l4th and 151h. Library staff, Board members, and Evanston Library Friends Board
members who will be using this database Program will attend the class.
Board cortscnsus was that this is a worthwhile purchase.
[llorin Bullock moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Purchase of 'Tic Evanston Public Library Board of'Trustecs moves to request that the Evanston
Hampers Library Friends purchase, with tip to $560.O0 in Hook Sale Funds, four tcn-bushel
laundry•tylr_ hampers to move and store materials for the Hcok Sales.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
STRATEGIC PLAN Memhcrs spoke of ways of reorganizing the plan-, Drew Hcindel said the idcav should be
worked on before the structure of the plan. The goals were felt to reflect the obvious
situation as it is. Mrs. BInchowicr said that if un outstanding collection and services are
to he developed, productivity must be improved. The question arose whether this would
be possible with the present staff, and priorities for allocating staff will be investigated.
'lltc Board reviewed the Plan in depth, goal by goal, objective by objective.
Michael Cervantes pointed out that the scrvicr.s the Library provides to help City staff can
he enhanced. At present the Library is the City's Internet presence.
The Strategic Plan was reordered, and Draft #6 will be prepared for the March meeting of
the Committee of the Whole.
A party for Ann Weise, a recent Board member and Library Board Secretary, was
discussed.
ADJOURNMENT Archibald Bryant moved, second by Camille Blachowicz,
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned 10:10 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Bullock, Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
51
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EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
March 19, 1996-.7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowicr,, Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock,
Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT None
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Noy
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Bead of Children's Services ]an Bojda
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
PRESIDING
Cheryl Wollin, President
' CALL TO ORDER
Pfcsident Wollin culled the meeting to order at 7.52 P.M., after photos were taken of the
Trustees for the next issue of the Evanston Library Friends' newsletter, The Bookmark,
11tcn the minutes of the Library Board meeting of February 20. 1996 were reviewed.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Doris Brown,
MSP Approval
'Mee Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves in approve the minutes
of Minutes of
of the Library Board meeting of February 20, 1996 as received.
212W6
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
COMMENTS BY
None,
- CITIZENS
-q OLD BUSINESS
Strategic Plan
Mr. Garber commended Library Director Neal Noy for having wo&.cd duough all the
revisions of the Plan, and commended Marlene Harris for her format design. Mrs. Brown
said she was very impressed with the Plan. This Elan ;announces the Library Board as a
different kind of body than in the past, and one deserving of different expectations.
-
Michael Cervantes spoke of input for the Plan from the Evanston Library Friends, and
=_
trustres discussed appropriate steps for communicating the Plan to the community. The
Pion lists the Library Board's goals and objectives, and is not an action plan. Consensus
was that the Plan should be presented to the City Council, and then to community groups -
=
the Evanston Chamber of Commerce, the PTA, the McGaw YMCA, and garden clubs -
_�
demonstrating that the Library Boanl is part of their network and they part of ours. The
Board has developed strong support in the community. (Archibald Bryant entered at this
jwint.) Discussion followed on the different needs of various segments of the community,
an stewardship and technology.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Camille Blachowicz.
MSP Strategic The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moved to approve the Library's
Plan Strategic Plant as presented.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
- - _ `'h i+ ers,.st ,,. �'��,.►.Y`dx# �`� _ �., ,. r ?'.%�ht` ar �c, i:�: a.-
.,,u JJL All Ir:.,nrrry �,Yl4WI J.Y iLL.WWh is W ii 1, it .0 wni yN eiYlr.uY a a41N ..r .. r.
ff t' . � • 7. Fa'
Cheryl Wollin will arrange with the City Manger to present the Plan to the City Council,
A meeting to share the Plan with community leaders will also be scheduled.
The April 2 meeting of the Committee of the Whole was canceled due to the lack of it
quorum. (At this point Drew Hcindcl left the meeting.)
Remaining Building The Board discussed the depth and breadth of the Library collections, the need for a
Projcct Funds formula for fulfilling specific needs, and development of the Children's collection.
Spending Plan Camille Blachowicz asked in what area, other than art, the Library should specialize.
Camille Blachowicx moved, second Gloria Bullock,
MSP Two -Year The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve the two-year
Spending Plan spending plan for funds remaining in the Library Building Project Budget.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Extension Agency Consensus of the Board was to cut the Bookmobile from the budget for the next fiscal
Policy: year. A new position in the Children's Department, working there and as a liaison with
Bookmobile Service with Evanston School District 65 and day care centers, will be proposed instead.
and Alternatives
(Sheldon Garber ;clt the meeting at this point.)
PRESIDENTS Mrs. Wollin spoke about her conversations with Northwestern and ETHS staff about
REPORT information technology. At Columbia, Missouri, the library and city provide Internet
training for a $10 user fee - an intertwining of institutions. Marlene Harris said that
= Pcoria has Frccnet, and the Library, the city newspapers and businesses contribute funds
to the entity that manages both this Freenct and a hcip desk. Mrs. Wollin called for a
committee to report to the Board on what should be done technologically; a meeting will
,
be scheduled. to which representatives from School Districts 65 and 202 will he invited.
VICE PRESIDENTS Ms. Newcomer asked Paul Gottschalk to review the financial rcpott for the year ending
REPORT February 29, 1996. Mr. Gottschalk said that the final figures arc not all in, but the
Library is over budget modesty in both expenditures and revenue.
Evanston Library Ms. Newcomer said that the Friends are spending S 10.000 for the Art Book Project. and
Friends will put $8.000 into the Endowment Fund. She spoke of the need to finance Internet
education. To a question from Mrs. Brown as to the Library's focus on Internet training.
Mr. Ney explained that it is on itsing the Library's resources; Ms. Hams said that 400
people have attended the Internet information sessions. There is a huge demand in the
community for such training. Eifen Newcomer suggested that the Friends fund Internet
training. Ms. Harris was asked to develop a plan for continuing Internet training.
Mr. Ney spoke of the River Oak Arts group, which publishes a magazine and presents
"' literary readings. They arc based in Oak Park and arc seeking a second community in
which to operate. Readings attd writers' workshops are tentatively scheduled; there will
be more information at the April Board meeting.
LIBRARY Mr. Ncy presented the Library activities report for the month of February, 1996, and the
DIRECTOR'S REPORT fourth quarterly report. There were kudos from the Board to Ms. Harris for the amount
of items processed and for the growth of the collection.
Mr. Ney said that its last meeting the City Council rejected bids for the Library's
janitorial contract and instructed the Library to start over. Mr. Ney pointed out that the
Library's staff had followed the City's purchasing procedures in making its
recommendatim but that the City Council seemed to be troubled th4t. the contact would
not be going to the Current vender, an Evanston firm. Mr. Gottschalk raid that ilia North
2
��+'� 3x�t a�x' �xtr•���, ,tea e, .T
hods immediate replacement. lie has secured four bids
for the job, and will ask the City Manger to approve an emergency purchase.
Exhaust Fan- Paul Gottschalk discussed a building pressure problem which, at times, causes the
Modification exterior drmrs to close incompletely. To relieve this excess pressure more air must be
vented through the ventilation systcm rather than through the front doors.
Doris Brown moved. secosid by Camille Blachowicz.
MSP Exhaust Fan The Evanston Public Library Board of Directors moves to approve a contract with
Landis and Gyr for $6,704 worth of modifications to the building's exhaust fan
system.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
ADJOURNMENT Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evanston Public library board of Trustees
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned 10:09 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted.
.{ 1 Fx!Lza�
Dr. Gloria Bullock, Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
APPROVED APRIL 16,Ift
y r r �;.- ''�:i lax i�t=�.`--_•'-+�
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
April 16, 1996; 7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowim Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant, Michael Cervantes,
Sheldon Garber, Drew Hcindel, Ellen Newcomer, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Gloria Bullock
STAR PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
PRE -SIDING Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the r eeting to order at 7:39 P.M. In the absence of Dr. Gloria
Bullock, Ellen Newcomer was appointed acting secretary.
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of h1arch 19, 1996 were reviewed.
Doris Brown moved, second by Camille Blachowicx,
NISP Approval The Evanston Public library Board of Tnrstces moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of of the Library Board meeting of March 19, 19S'6 as received.
3119/96 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The Board recommended one change: in the minutes of the Committer of Whole
meeting.
Drew Hcindel moved, wcund by Ellen Newcomer.
MSP Approval The Evanston Public library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of the of the March 5, 1996 m:cting of the Committee of the Whole as amended.
Committee of the Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Whole, 315196
COMMENTS BY None.
CITIZENS
OLD BUSINESS
Strategic Plan 71le Board scheduled a presentation of its Strategic Plan to the Interim City Manager and
the City Council at the Council's meeting on April 22nd, at 6 P.M. The nature of the
presentation was discussed and the responsibility for responding to likely questions was
divided among Board members.
PRESIDENT'S Mrs, Wobin opted to give her report on the Technology Advisory Gawp, later in the
REPORT meeting.
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72.
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ILI, i --
VICE PRFSIDENT'S
REPORT
Financial Report
At the request of Ellen Newcomer, Paul Gottschalk discussed the financial report for
the month ending March 31, 1996, and the year-end financial report. Michael Cervantes
said the budget came in close, and Board members congratulated Mr. Gottschalk on his
managing of the budget. Mr. Heindcl said we now have experience in budgeting for the
new building.
Evanston Library
Mrs, Blachowicz reminded the SoW ol'the need for volunteers for the Friends' book
Friends
sale and t!rc subsequent cleanup, and several members immediately volunteerrd
(Mrs. Blachowicz left the meeting at this point).
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Mr. Ncy reminded the Board of the many poetry programs corning up in April - poetry
REPORT
month - of the Evanston Library Fricnds' author program with A, 11. Yehoshua, and of the
Jo -Anne Fiirshficld Memorial Poetry Awards program in May.
Mr. Ncy presented the activity report for the month of March, 1996. He announced that
the Evanston Public Library had received a copy of Encarta software from the American
Library Association because of an artiwle in the Evansron Rrview about our "Log On @
the Library" program. He also told the Board that the City's new practice of bundling
individual computer equipment purchases into biddable packages means that all computer
purchases would now he approved by the City Council.
tic spoke of Alderman Guthrie's Reference about a mail box on Church Street near the
Library's hook drops, and Alderman Newman's Reference asking for an information
piece telling patrons that City Council packets arc available for inspection in the
Reference Room.
NEW BUSINESS
FY1997-98 'Me Doard discussed budget options for FY 1997-98. The Board would like to eliminate
Budget bookmobilc service, and add the positions of Children's Services Outreach librarian and
Computer Suppc}rt Technician. Tltc Board would also like to redirect the materials
budget from the b oktnobile to the Main Library, increase all materials accounts by 4% to
adjust for inflation (total S12,900) and incrrasc the Periodicals budget by $5,500 in order
to add 100 ruhsctiptrons. The budge: will be discussed in more detail at the May meeting
of the Commitler of the Whole.
Power Outages
Paul Gottschalk explained the problem and suggested waiting a year to gain
experience on this aspect of the new building. Board cunsensus agreed with that decision.
Appointment of a
Board President Cheryl Wallin appointed a Nominating Committee consisting of
Nominating
Doris Brown, Drew Heindcl and Michael Cervantes. Mrs. Brown will chair the
Committee
Committee, which will report at the May Board meeting.
Annual Rcpart
The Board approved the annual report required by the Illinois State Library. Mr. Ney
said there will be a typed version as well as the electronic print out, sine this report is
needed for grant applications. The Certification section was signrA by the Hoard's
President and Secretary.
Drew Heindcl moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Annual The Evanston Public Library Beard of Trustees moves approve the annual report
Report for the Illinois State Library, as presented.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Technology Advisory The Board discussed a draft letter concerning the formation of a Library Technology
Group Advisory Group, Several suggestions were made as to people to be invited to join this
group. Tile subjml will be discmw d further at the May meeting; of the Comn-daw of the
Whole, and Maricne Harris will be asked to work on a draft of the Committee's charp.
2
i. 3,��,•
Mrs. Wollin reminded the Board about Sundae Sunday, a city-wide celebration of
volunteers.
Executive Session The Board adjourned into Executive Session for the purpose of evaluating the
Performance of the Library Director.
ADJOURNMENT The Board came out of Executive Session and voted to adjourn.
Archibald Bryant moved, second by Michael Ccrvantes,
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Respectfully Submitted,
The meeting adjourned at IO.Zo P.M.
'�o
Ellen Newcomer. Acting Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
,&PPROV
3
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47 F,l ,•fF'.
4:0,
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
May 2l, 1996-.7:34 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowicz, Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock,
Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Garber, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBIIRS ABSENT Drew He'rndel, Ellen Newcomer
STAPP PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
PRESIDING Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER
MSP Approval
of Minutes of
4116196
MSP Approval
of Minutes of tho
Committee of the
Whole, 416196
COMMENTS BY
CITIZENS
OLD BUSINESS
Budget FY 1997.98
REPORTS
Nominating
Committee
PRESIDENTS
REPORT
President Wollin culled dhe meeting to order at 7:36 P.M. In the absence of Dr. Gloria
Bullock, Doris Brown was appointed acting secretary.
The minutes of the Library Board meeting of April 16, 1996 were reviewed.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Michael Cervantes,
The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
of the Library Board meeting of April 16, 1996 as received.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The minutes of the May 7th meeting of the Committee of the Whole were reviewed.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
of the April 6, 1996 meeting of the Committee of the Whole as received.
Passai unanimously on a voice vote.
None.
Mrs. Wollin will send a letter to Mr. Crum, the new City Manager, welcoming him to
Evanston and inviting him to meet with the Library Board. She will enclose the Library
Board's Strategic Plan. her memorandum to tic Interim City Manager on the Library's
Budget, and his Evanston Public Library cart!. Mr. Garber spoke of reconciling the two
legal bodies - the City Council and the Library Board of Trusters - and Trustees lauded
Mr. Crum's strong support of libraries in Spokane.
Mrs. Brown presented the report of the nominating Committee: President - Cheryl
Wollin, Vice -President - Ellen Newcomer, Seactary - Gloria Bullock. An amendment
to the Board bylaws. removing the stipulation that the Vice President shall be liaison to
the Evanston Library Friends, was recommended. The amendment to the bylaws will
indicate drat the Board President shall appoint the Board liaison to the Friards.
Mrs. Wollin reported that the Jo -Anne Hirshfield Memorial Poetry Awards were very
well attended.
VICE PRESIDENT'S
REPORT
Financial Report
Evanston Library
Friends
i< �4�
Paul Gottschalk discussed the financial report for the month ending April 30, 19%. r
He reported that a check had been received from the Chicago Public Library for Lost
and Paid books, covering the period [front 1992 through part of 1995.
'lire Board received the Friends' new Board roster and the minutes of the Friends'
Board meeting of March 26, 1996.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S NW Noy repotted dent the sidewalk on the west side of the Library building buckled on
REPORT Saturday, May l 81h. He called to the Board's attention the fact that the Library's
architect, Nagle Hantray, had recommended against installing such a sidewalk in this
climate-, that the sidewalk design had been dictated by the Strectscapc Design for
Downtown Evanston; that Nagle Hartray had recommended the use of expansion joints
when this walkway was installed, and that Land Design Cooperative, the designer of the
downtown streetscape, had insisted that the expansion joints were not needed. Mr. Noy
indicated that a recent inspection of the walk revealed a number of waves and small
ridges. It uppears that the walk will increasingly cause problems.
Mrs. Brown complimented Marlene Harris on her presentation in Portland at the Public
Library Association annual conference; she said that Evanston was positively represented.
NEW BUSINESS
Resolution for
The Board reviewed a resolution in appreciation of Ron Stoner, who resigned as Head
Ron Stoner
of Information Services to take a position with Dairy Management Inc.
Sheldon Gather moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Resolution
The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the resolution in
Ron Stoner
appreciation of Ron Stoner.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote. (Resolution attached)
Multimedia Policies
The Board reviewed staff recommendations for policies governing the use of multimedia
and Purchases
software and purchases io make the new multimedia computers received from the State
Library operational. Mr. Ncy indicated that the key policy issue was whether or not the
Library would charge a fee for the use of these materials. The staff recommendation was
to charge a $2.00 fee, to limit the use of the materials to Evanston residents, and to limit
use to no more than that items checked out per card per visit. (Gloria Bullock entered at
this point.) Trustee Cervantes asked about the CD-ROM recordable unit that the staff
proposed asking the Evanston Library Friends to purchase with book sale funds. Ms.
Harris explained that it would be used to produce disks with the operating instructions for
the multimedia computers. Thc disks could then be used in the; various locations to start
the system back uli wlicn patrons either accidentally or deliberately wipe out the system's
opetating instructions. Trustee 13m%n indicated that she thought this was an excellent
idea.
MSP Multimedia The Evanston Public library Board of Trustees moves to approve loan periods.
Policies and fees, and restrictions for multimedia software recommended by the staff. It also
Purchases moves to approve the purchase of four Lock -Kit 11 security systems at a cost of
$111, three Optimus stereo headphones at a cost of $75, two workstations, one for
North Branch and one for South (the North Branch unit will cost S412, the South
Branch unit will not exceed $450). all to be purchased from North Branch Book Sale
Funds currently held in the Library's gift fund. The Evanston Library Friends will be
asked to use book sale funds for the purchase of one CD-ROM Recordable Unit at a
cost of $1,524 95.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
AT 2
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_ t it has core and supplemenud ctar�du &
{ aitd E�q �'v��:ilt � `• � ens.- '1'ltrce copies will be purchased and
circulated amang the Board, for its review, Mr. Ney hsd distributed in the Board packet a
document reviewing the Library's performwice on the core standards, Mr. Garber termed
it a solid document and an excellent resource. (Camille Blachowicz entered at this point.)
Mr. Garber suggested that the Board meeting agenda have as a standard item the status of
the Strategic Plan.
ADJOURNMENT Archibald Bryant moved, wond by Michael Cervantes,
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evanston public Library Board of Trustees
move. -I to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote,
The meeting adjourned at 8:43 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ai-i. A15Y-n�
Doris Brown, Acting Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
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y 6�Z'BOVED iULY 16. OWN
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 18,1996-. 7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowicz, Doris Brown, Gloria Bullock, Michael Cervantes,
Shcldrn Garber, Ellen Newcomer, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Archibald Bryant, Drew Heindel
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
PRESIDING Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M.
The minutes of the June 4, 1996 meeting of the Library Board's Committee of the
Whole were reviewed and changes made.
Michael Cervantes moved, second by Camille Blachowicx,
MSP Approval, The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
Minutes of the of the June 4, 1996 meeting of the Committee of the Whole as amended.
6/4196 Meeting. Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Committee of the
Whole
Mr. Ney said that the minutes for the May Board meeting would need to be approved at
the July muting. He explained that it was at times difficult to get the minutes signed,
particularly when there had been an acting secretary for the meeting, before they were
distributed in the Board packer as the Board had requested. He suggested that future
minutes be signed by himself or Executive Secretary Ruth Granick, with the notation
"acting as Secretary to the Board." After some discussion the consensus of the hoard
was that future minutes should be sent out in the Buaud packet unsigned. The Secretary
or Acting Secretary will sign them after they have been approved by the Board. The
draft minutes will still be faxed to the Secretary or Acting Secretary for review before
= they are placed in the Board packet..
COMMENTS BY None.
CITIZENS
OLD BUSINESS
Election of Board The Board approved the slate of its Nominating Committee and elected the following
Officers officers: President - Cheryl Wollin, Vice -President - Ellen Newcomer, and Secretary -
Gloria Bullock. Doris Brown thanked the new officers for their willingness to serve.
(Sheldon Garber entered at this point.)
109
74
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Budget
Mr. Ncy said suggestions had been received from City staff in response to the City
Manager's request for money -saving ideas. Among those targeted specifically for The
Library were a coffee shop in the lobby, showing films and charging for them, charging
Northwestern University students for using the Library, and discontinuing the bookmobile
and branches, Mr. Ney will bring all the suggestions for the library to the July Board
meeting. On behalf of the Board, Mis. Wollin said they will he appreciated and seriously
considered,
Strategic Plan
on the subject of the. Beard's position paper oil governance, Ms. Newcomer said the
Progress
home rule suncy conducted during the planning procrss was very helpful. She will
prepare a conrparixon of what Illinois state law says and how the Library is run. The
position paper should also include why the Board is concerned about governance.
Ms. Newcomer pointed out that concerns about Library governance in Fvanston predate
the coming of home rule with the new constitution. She also suggested that there is no
significant difference between the Library's current budget and what could be raised with
the Library Board's historic tax rate. Ms Newcomer pointed out that reconciling state law
with practices of municipal authorities in Evanston raised many difficulties. Mr. Gwbcr
said that he, as a Library trustee, needs the powers of an independent hoard so he can
exercise his responsibilitic.. Ms. Newcomer pointed out that the City Council has taken
no action to change the independent status of library board and she believes they have no
power to do so. The City's ordinance concerning the Library says that the Board has all
the powers grunted under state law. Mr. Cervantes suggested that a paper be composed,
stating the advantages and disadvantages of an independent Library Board, Various
problems with the current form of governance, including the delays in hiring full time
employees and the added costa of having to follow City purchasing practices, were
discussed. Ms. Newcomer indicated that she would like to obtain a review of current
home rule case law from Klein Thorpe Jenkins Ltd.
Doris Brown moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Legal
The Evanston Public Library hoard of Trustees authorizes Trustee Ellen Newcomer
Memorandum
to expend up to S2,5(xl in Gift Fund Revolving Interest to obtain a review of current
home rule case law from Klein "Thorpe Jenkins Ltd.
Passed unanimous!y on a roll call vote.
Public Library
The Illinois Public Library standards on library governance were reviewed.
Standards:
Mr. Cervantes noted that on.- of the standards calls upon Board members to participate in
Governance and
at least one continuing education activity each year. Another standard is concerned with
Administration
selecting people for the Board. In city libraries, like Evanston, members of the board arc
appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. Mrs. Wollin said that citizens
continually suggest names to her and ask for recommendations to the Board. The Board
discussed tic role it aright play in recommending people for the Board. Some educational
sessions about the tole of the Board and spending some time with the Leadership
Evanston classes were mentioned s avenues for making contact with potential Board
members.
The nc.%t step in sharing the Strategic Plan with the community also came up during the
discussion of standards. The Board's consensus was that Mrs. Wollin should address a
letter with a copy of the strategic plan to the leaders of community organizations.
The matter of monitoring and lobbying for library related legislation also came up during
the discussion of governance standards. Mrs. Wollin asked whether the Illinois Library
Association (ILA) was the organization that did this for Illinois libraries. Mr. Ncy said
that they had done this in the past, but that the ILA legislative effort is being shut down
for a year because of financial problems the association is having. Alternative means of
funding this effort are being discussed by the Notch Suburban Library System Board, and
Mr. Ncy thought that he might have something an this matter for tlra July Committee of
the Whole meeting. Ms. Harris pointed out to the Board that the Communications
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decUlon in Philadelphia. Mr. Garber notcrl that an editorial in the Wall Street Journal
said that the three justices had produced the best manual on the Internet and the first
amendment so far.
Bylaws Amendment 'tile Board discussed briefly the proposed amendment to the bylaws, which would have
removed all reference to the vice-president serving as liaison to the Evanston Library
Friends. Mrs. V1Wollin said that she thnught that it was also necessary to say that the
President would appoint such a liaison. Other necessary changes in the bylaws were
discussed. 'the recently approved mission statement should be substituted for the
statement of purpose. The name Board of Trustees should be substituted for Board of
Directors in order to correspond to the state law. The bylaws should be changed to
correspond to the way in which the Board is currently operating with regard to
committees. The consensus was that these amendments to the bylaws should be proposed
for a vote at the July Board meeting.
REPORTS
Fund For Excellence The Committee met on June 11 th and will meet again at 6 PM on July 2nd before the
'96 Committee Committee of the Whole meeting. Tire campaign approach chosen is that of a
traditional annual campaign, that will include face to face solicitations and possibly direct
mail and special events. A campaign committee will be recruited from former Board
members, regular donors, regular volunteers, and heavy library users. A draft case
statement is being prepared.
Technology Advisory Mr. Cervantes spoke with potential Committee members and is hoping to firm things up
Committee
at his next meeting.
PRESIDENT'S
In the interests of expediting the meeting's long agenda, Mrs. Wollin (rave a short report.
REPORT
simply stating that she had written a letter in response to a patron's request that the
Library handle vctcr registration. Mr. Ncy reported that the State had prepared a self -
registration form for voter registration, but that those using the form would only be
=
registered for Federal elections, The Board endorsed Mr. Ney's decision not to make this
form available in the Library until it would also register people to vote for State and local
elections.
VICE PRESIDENTS
REPORT
Evanston Library
Ms. Newcemcr said the Board should thank the Evanston Library Friends for a truly
Friends
remarkable year in contributions to the Library. Mr. Ncy passed around a sketch of
the plaque the Friends want to place in the Community Meeting Room, hoonoring life
members of the Friends.
Ellen Newcomer muvcd, second by Camille Blachowicx,
MSP Approve The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees votes to approve the placement in the
Library's Community Meeting Room of a plaque honoring life members of the
Evanston Library Friends
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
LIBRARY Mr. Ncy presented the Library activities report for the month of May. To a question on
DIRECTOR'S REPORT why the Library's collection to date is so much larger this year than last. F4arlene Harris
replied that the Acquisitions Librarian has not had time to weed the collection, other than
discarding unusable books. Mr. Ncy said that not a great deal of weeding will be done for
the next two years, while the Building Project money is being spent.
is
_ Mr. Ney informed the Board that 32 applications for the position recently vacated by Ron
Stoner have been received so far.
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Discussion turned to the sidewalk outside the Library which, having no expansion jointo,
has buckled again. Then Mr. Ney circulated posters in English and Spanish that were
produced as part of the Library's Hispanic Outrerch Program, He also passed out until~
from Einstein's Bagels. For each $2.50 spent there, 50 cents will be contributed to the
Evanston Library Friends.
NEW BUSINESS
Library's Capital Trustees asked what the process is for becoming pan of the City's Capital Improvement
Improvement Plan Plan (CIP), Mr. Ney said all City departments are ssked to suggest items for inclusion.
Tne Board discussed Mr. Gottschalk's memorandum on the "Library Capital
Improvement Plan" and staff was instructed to revise the list for the July Board meeting.
In view of the importance of technology Itu'oughout all City departments, the Board asked
Library staff to propose to the new City Managet the development of a City-wide plan for
the timely replacement of automation equipment. (Mr. Garter left at this point.)
Ms. Newcomer thanked Mr. Gottschalk for his draft memorrndum.
The difficulty of making the quite diversely sized people who usr. the Children's R(H)m
(little ones, middle school students, adults accompanying children, and teachers and other
adults who work with children) comfortable was discussed, a propos complaints ahcrul the
coldness of the room. Mrs. Blachowicz said books for little ones should not be shelved
spine out; she will gather a group of resetting specialists to meet with Library staff and
discuss the configuration of the Children's Department.
Although it was not on the agenda, Mr. Ney spoke of the urgent necessity for replacing
North Branch's air conditioner. In light of the fact that thcrc may not he emergency City
Capital Improvement funds available for this purpose, the following motion was
reluctantly made.
Doris Brown moved, second by Camille Blachowicz,
MSP North The Evanston Public Library Board of Mustu:s moves to authorize the expenditure
Branch Air of up to $3.O00 in North Branch Book Sale funds to replace the North Branch air
Conditioner conditioner, if no other option is available.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Facilities Policy The Board discussed a revised Facilities Policy. The revised policy will permit
individual artists selected by a jury process to display in the Library's Exhibit Room, will
increase the fee for use of the Community Meeting Room from $35 to S50 and the fee for
use of the Small Meeting Room from $15 to $25. and will require payment in advance
before meeting room reservations are confirmed.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Doris Brown,
MSP Facilities The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the revised
Policy Facilities Policy, which will go into effect July 1, 1996.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Per Capita Grant The Per Capita Grant application must be submitted to the Illinois State Library by
July 15, 1996 in order for the Library to qualify for the grant.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Gloria Bullock.
MSP Per The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the Per Capita
Capita Grant Grant application as presented.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
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Desktop publishing
ADJOURNMENT
MSP Adjourn
Respectfully Submitted.
There was much discussion of the stuff proposal to use Book Sale funds to purchase,
desktop publishing software and training. Board members suggested that the North
Suburban Library System or the City's training budget might be a mute appropriate
source of the training. Staff was directed to revise the plan and examine other training
options. This agenda item will be trconsidered at the July Board meeting.
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Gloria Bullock,
There being no further business, the Evanston public Library hoard of Trustees
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjoumed at 10:40 P.M.
Dr. Gloria Bullock. Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
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APPROVED JUI Y 114. 1290
Committee Meeting Report, Evanston Public Library
CONQ+LI rM OF TE. WHOLE
Tuesday, July 2, 1996; 7:30 P.M.
Library Board Room
Present: Cheryl Wollin, Chair, Camille Blachowicx, Doris Brown, Michrel Cervantes,
Sheldon Garber, Drew IJeindel, Ellen Newcomer
Absent: Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock
Staff Present: Neal Ney, Marlene Harris, Ruth Granick
CALL TO ORDER President Cheryl Wollin called the meeting to order at 7.37 P.M. in the absence
of Board Secretary Gloria Bullock, Ellen Newcomer was appointed Acting
Secretary.
GOVERNANCE Ms. Newcomer I woken with Ken I~riker of Klein Thorpe Jenkins Ltd.
POSITION PAPER about public lib.Ay operations in home rule communities. She has sent him
the City's ordinance concerning the Library, the ordinance that names the
Library Director as a department head, the survey the Board did of other home
rule communities, and the Library's S,(Utcgi Plan. (Sheldon Garber entered at
this point.) Mr. Friker disagrees with the City's understanding of home rule
powers. He contends that the home rule provisions of the state constitution do
not invalidate the provisions of Illinois library law. The past acquiescence of
Library Boards with the limitations made by the City does not eliminate the
Library Board's authority and responsibility under the statute.
ILA LEGISLATIVE Mr. Ney explained the budgetary difficulties of the Illinois Library Association
PROGRAM (ILA), which are due to the ILA Board's ignoring its fund reserve policy and to
the unfortunate scheduling of annual conferences, which caused them to lose
funds. Mr. Ney told of a letter he'd written to the ILA Board encouraging them
to continue this program. There is a proposal before the ILA Board to have its
legislative program contracted out instead of being handled by their own
consultant. An effort is under way within the North Suburban Library System to
raise funds to support the legislative program. The consensus of the Board was
that a financial contribution from the Library would be inappropriate.
BUDGET FY 1997/98 Trustees discussed the impact of the Library's Strategic Plan on the budget.
They were looking forward to meeting with the new City Manager, perhaps at
the Board's July meeting, for a constructive discussion. Mr. Ney spoke of a
three million dollar gap between the cost of running the City and projected
revenue; he expects requests for layoffs and cuts in the FY 1497/98 budget.
REPORT ON SEMINAR Mrs. Wollin distributed to the trustees copies of a report on this NSLS program.
ABOUT EVALUATING which was attended by twenty people. Board consensus was that employee
LIBRARY evaluations of the Libray Director would not be useful. Mr. Ney told of his
DIRECTORS "Let's Talk" meetings, the goal of which was to foment ideas for improving the
quality of service at the Library. When the City instituted its Customer Service
program, the Library's Customer Service Committee took the place of the "Let's
Talk' groups. Mr. Ney has a list of potential performance stnrtdrsrtls set by a staff
committee. Mrs. Wollin said that evaluations should be one on one and that both
an crttployee surrey and year -long documentation would be most useful.
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FUNDING FGR i ...
,' a . s psosect way discussed, and the consensus was to 00i`roi";5''c'€=
varistori Library Friends. Trustees praised the usefulness of this program,
suggested that the Evanston Clarion be added to the indexing. Discussion turned
to the Library's Web page and its importance to the community.
TECHNOLOGY Michael Cervantes reported on the meeting, which included technology experts
ADVISORY from School Districts 65 and 202 znd Northwestern University. The Committee
COMMITIME is seeking a member from National -Louis University.
Mr. Cervantes said that Ameritech has funded a program electronically linking
museums to aid elementary education, and mentioned COVIS, a science
education database for high school curriculum.
At its next meeting, the Committee will: 1) discuss how to share education
training resources; members will shave their syllabi, catalogs, etc. 2) start work
on improvement in communications, on including a City employee, on a
homework pier, and on coordinating librad ns and teachers who need
information on the Library's collections, 3) consider obtaining educational
discounts for the Library's purchasing through the schools, and 4) work on
greater communication.
OTHER ITEMS AND The Board expressed satisfaction at the timely purchase of a new air conditioner
CONCERNS. for the North Branch.
Mrs. Wollin said she has been informed that the manufacturer is responsible for
the cost of replacing the unsettled bricks on Library grounds, and that the Library
should not have to pay for repairs.
Doris Brown moved, second by Camille Blachowicz,
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of
Trustees moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9:42.
Respectfully Submitted
Ellen Newcomer, Acting Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
APPROVED JULY 16. 1996
2
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EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 16, 1996,,7:30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBIMS PRESENT Doris Brown, Gloria Bullock, Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer,
Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Camille Blachowicz, Aruldhald Bryant, Michael Cervantes
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
PRESIDING Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M.
The minutes of the May 21 Rt Board meeting, the June l kith Beard rticeting, and the
July 2nd meeting of itte Library Board's Committee of tFte Whole were reviewed.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Drew Heindel,
MSP Approval, The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the
Minutes of 5/21/96 minutes of the May 41, 1996 Board meeting as received.
Passed unanimously on it voice vote.
There was some discussion on th:.lune I8th Board minutes and some changes made.
Doris Brown moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the
Minutes of 6/18/96 minutes of the June 18, 1996 Board meeting as amended.
Passed unanimously on u voice vote.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Drew Heindel,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the
Minutes of 7/2/96, minutes of the July 2, 1996 meeting of the Committee of The Whole as
Committee of the received.
Whole Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
COMMENTS BY None.
CITIZENS
OLD BUSINESS
Budget FY 1997/98 Mrs. Wollin spoke of her meeting with City Manager Roger Crum. She found him
interested in the Evanston Lihrwy. Mr. Crum will attend the Board's August meeting. A
special meeting of the Cummiuce of the Whole was schedulm for August I, in
preparation for the Board's meeting with the new City Manager. Ms. Newcomer spoke of
summarizing for Mr. Crum the contracts other home rule communities have with their
libraries, and telling him that the Board is studying goveratme in accordance with its
Strategic Man. (Dr. Bullock entered at this point.)
Th}','' _ ''1 , S.,=A �jFi /f..L't'�;p .... 3iClTF..le•�•` -.; t..r,.
Bylaws Amendments Thera wtis consensus tl t i these revisions would bring the bylaws up to date.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Sheldon Garber:
MSP The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the
Amend amendments to the Board Bylaws as received.
Bylawx Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Capital Mrs. Wollin praised Neal Ncy and Marlehc Harris for their draft memorandum
Improvements Plan - on this subject and stressed the importance of the issue, Mrs. Brown suggested
Automation the insertion of a table showing the planning and accomplishments detailed later on in
Replacement the memorandum, which she termed very nice. The Board approved this memo to the
Information Systems Committee,
Strategic Plan Mrs. Brown said there is great progress on Goal IV, Objective 2 - many members of the
Progress staff have volunteered to be trained as Library spokespersons to address the community
about their field of expertise. Mr. Garber said the Board is beginning to move on the
primary governance issue. He expressed concern about what lies beyond the Strategic
Plan, what's being done in the state to establish excellence and to educate the business
community. He then distributed the Guidelines of the Lincoln Foundation.
REPORTS
Technical Advisory Mrs. Brown termed this committee an excellent one. She said that a program would be
Committee developed for key people from the Library, the City and both Evanston school districts,
based on Northwestern's Technology in Learning and Teaching (TILT) program. The
primary goal of this committee is to provide the Library with increased access to
technology education and advice and to promote better communication, particularly in the
area of technology, between the Library, Northwestern University and the two school
districts.
PRESIDENT'S Mrs. Wollin indicated that there would be an executive session following the meeting to
REPORT discuss the Library Director's compensation.
VICE PRESIDENTS
REPORT
Financial Report Encumbrances have been made per schedule. No new non-resident cards have been sold.
Mrs. Brown said slit is always impressed to see Fund for Excellence book plates in the
Library's collection. Ms. Newcomer spoke of the wonderful Fund for Excellence display
that Laura Dudnik created lust year, and asked that Mrs. Dudnik do one this year as well.
There was also a suggestion that this yeat's Holiday Book Fund display have a box with
fliers for the public to take.
Evanston Library Ms. Newcomer said she has heard much praise for this year's annual meeting, at which an
Friends excellent speaker from Northwestern University presented a program on Jane Austen.
At her request, Ms. Newcomer was appointed Board liaison to the Evanston Library
Friends.
LIBRARY Mr. Ncy presented the Library activities report for the month of June. The decrease in
DIRECTOR'S REPORT circulation this year compared to 1995, the first year the new building was open, was
discussed, as well a-, the decrease compared to 1992, which year included Chicago
patrons. A graph including only Evanston patrons was requested, for a clever
comparison.
Mrs. Brown asked about staffing problems when professional staff want to attend training
sessions but must he on a desk serving the public.
3
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To queries frnm Trustees, Mr. Ney replied that there nip soma very good candidates for
the Head of information Services position, and he hopes a job offer will N made soon,
NEW BUSINESS
Review of Illinois
To a question on revision of job descriptions, Paul Gottschalk explained the process by
State Standards
which Library and City staff collaborate on these revisions. He also discussed the ADA
requirements.
Establishment of
Consensus was to keep the same Board meeting schedule as in previous years,
Monthly Meeting
Times
Drew Heindel moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP Board Meeting The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to retain its present
Schedule
meeting achrdule, with regular Board meetings at 7:30 P.M. onlhe third
Tuesday of each month and meetings of the Committee of the Whola at
7:30 P.M. on the first Tuesday of each month,
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
At 9:07 P.M. the Board adjourned into executive session to discuss personnel matters.
The meeting adjourned at 9.48 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dr. Gloria Bullock. Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trusties
DROVED AUGUST 21,1996
3
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
August 21, 1996; 7;30 P.M.
Library's Board Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowlcz, Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock, Michael Ccrvantes,
Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Nona
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Noy
Technical Services Manager Marlene Harris
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
OTHERS PRESENT Roger Crum, City Manager
Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M.
MEETING WITH The purpose of this meeting was to discuss budget and governance issues.
CCTV MANAGER Mrs. Wollin opened the meeting by discussing the Library's budget for the coming
ROGER CRUM year. The Strategic Plan has been completed and its priorities must be the goals of the
budget. She spoke of (lie Board's fiscal responsibilities and the importance of maintaining
the vitality of the Library in the community - the Library must reach out to the schools
and meet the technological demands of a modern society. The bookmobile is in bad
physical condition and expensive, its services duplicate those already offered by other
agencies of the Library, and the Board is ready to discontinue the Bookmobile. If the
bookmobile is discontinued, its staff person is needed in the Children' Department as a
liaison between the schools and the Library.
Roger Crum gave a short personal history of himself and spoke of the good library system
in Spokane. There are large branch libraries, the Library Board is semi- autonomous
(appointed by the Mayor and City Council), and the Board appoints the Library Director.
He believes in strong city departments with freedom to operate and strong boards; he is
aware of the governance dispute in Evanston. fie discussed property tax and the Capital
Improvement Plan. The City's present budget policy does not permit City Government to
benefit from an increase in community's property value. There are not enough funds to go
around and he is asking all City departments to prepare zero growth budgets for this year.
Ellen Newcomer said the Evanston community has shown itself to be very pro Library,
that there is no ineluctable advantage to the Library in being a department of the City
government, and that the Library might be better off as a totally independent entity. When
home rule was promulgated in Illinois, said Ms. Newcomer, the City took over the
Library because it thought it could do a better job than the Library Board, However, the
language of home rule is clear - the autonomy of a governmental unit such as a library
board cannot be changed without a referendum. She said that, due to lack of adequate
funding for collection development, the image of the Library in the community has been
tarnished over the last 20 years. Mr. Cervantes spoke of the dilemma caused by the
contradiction between Illinois library law which says that the Library Board has fiduciary
responsibility for the Library and local practices which treat the Board like an advisory
body.
Mr. Crum said he expects the Board to be _ policy Board. setting goals, devising
program.., turd deciding the direction in which the Library should go. One trustee stud that
the Dowd needs to be a political force vis-h-vis dw City Council to move the Library
forward.
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-chNad 136WI,, d o: the changes in the tax situallor, : i Evanston that have occi rrtd
since the mid 1950s: the downtown and residential areas were not kept viable, nlitwugh
property taxes are as high m possible. The City Council needs to gencrale a clenr visissn
of its future. Evanston residents now patronize other public libraries, shop in Ihosc cities
and patronize their coffee shops. The Evanston Public Library no longer attracts a% many
people to our downtown as it once did. since its collections are so weak.
Drew Heindel said that the Library's resources do not match its exterior. Mr. Cruet ngrecd
but asked where funding could be found. h'lrs. Wrillin said that tough political issuer tiro
involved in our budget; the branches have a significant financial implication, bill the
Board is uncomfortable about suggestions to close them, put all resources in one place
and an active: outreach program. To a question on whether the Strategic Plan objectives,
which one Trustee termed modest, can be achieved, Mr. Ney said it would require
reducing hours or closing branches to achieve the objectives with a zero growth budget.
Ms. Newcomer said that in the past the City had been adamant on its control of Library
budget line items, Mr. Crum indicated that he had no objections to the Board's managing
the line items as long as the bottom line in the budget did not increase. tic said tic is
legally required to present a halanccd budget. Mrs, Woilin said that the Board worked
very hard, r sised funds, and intends to put forth an annual campaign for Children'%
materials and the art collections. She spoke of the possibility of a written agreement with
the City, spelling out the parainctcrs of its relationship with the Library hoard. Mr. Crum
described the agenda of the City budget hearings and it was agreed that a Board inrrnber
would attend. (Mr. Crum left at this point.)
Discussion ensued an budget prepanuion, and the hoard directed Mr. Ney to prepare a
budget that would permit the library to continue all its current operations (except for the
Bookmobile) and to meet the objectives established is the Strategic Plan (add a Children's
Services Outreach Librarian, add a Computer Support Technician, a 4% inflation
adjustment to the materials budget, add 100 periodical subscriptions this year). Mr. Ney
was also directed to prepare a budget scenarius that wouuld matte it possible to meet the
City Manager's guidelines and as many of the objectives of the Strategic Plan is poWblc.
The Board discussed the taxing authority granted it by slate statute. Assuming that other
clemcnts of Lthrary income remain relatively stable and that the Board also levied the
.0002 building maintenance levy (the building maintenance levy is subject to a 1XIlkstble
back door referendum), the Library Board on its own authority could provide a budgct of
$2,883.501. The Library's current budget is 52,839,200, or $44,301 less than the Board
could budget tin its own authority. Mr. Ncy pointed out that the Board's tax rate wax
established by a 1946 ref-.rendum.
The Board reviewed the minutes of its July 16th mcclings and of the Committee of the
Wholc meeting of ,august 1.
Sheldon Garber moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of the Library Board meeting of July 16, 1996, of the executive session of that
7/16196 same date, and of the minutes of the August 1, 1996 meeting of the Committee
of the Whole, as received.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The minutes of the July 30th meeting of the Fund for Excellence '96 - 97 Committee were
reviewed and accepted.
COMMENTS BY None.
Lill NS
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OLD BUSINESS
Capital Improvement The boaad apprtrved'titc pltut in principle. Some Board menthert< suggested that
PIptl operatlonal priorities were necessary. Doris Brown thought that the air conditioner
for the computer room was the most im fxsrtant project. Mr. Heindcl thought that the statf
might give the improved lighting for the reading room a higher priority, and suggested
that the director might want In check the staff priorities on this shortened list of proposed
Projects again.
Performunce The proposed performance mca%urestbudget objectives were discussed and approved.
Measurer
Library Governance Ms. Newcomer spoke of the position paper on which she is working on as an educational
piece, aimed at aiding the Board to work with the City on a more productive basis.
PRESIDENT'S In view of the lateness of the hour Mrs. Wollin elected to Skip this agenda item.
REPORT
VICE PRESIDENT'S
REPORT
Financial Report
The Hoard reviewed the financial report for the five months ending July 31, 1996. There
was some discussion on the income from meeting room use. It will be lower this year
because last year's figures were increased by one time income from Northlight Theater.
Evanston Library
The Library Board expressed (hanks to Paul Gottschalk for his aid to the Friends in
Friends
improving their financial reports.
LIBRARY DIRECTOR'S Mr. Ney presented the activities report for the month of July.
REPORT
NEW BUSINESS Mr. Hcindel announced that the offer from Sid Zwick of a sculpture by Rosemary Zwick
Art Donalion find been withdrawn. 'Ihc exterior art by Richard Hunt is due in April of 1997.
Review of Illinois Discussion of this agenda hero was postponed to the Srptember meeting of the
State Standards Committer of the Whole.
ADJOURNMENT Archibald Bryant moved, second by Michael Cervantes,
MSP Adjourn There being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned at I0:24 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dr. Gloria Bullock, Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
r
3
APPROVED Oi'TO IF"J6
EVANSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Meeting
September 17. 1996. 7:30 P.M.
Library Staff Room
MEMBERS PRESENT Camille Blachowicz, Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant, Gloria Bullock,
Michael Cervantes, Drzw Heindel, Ellen Newcomer, Cheryl Wollin
MEMBERS ABSENT Sheldon Garber
STAFF PRESENT Library Director Neal J. Ney
Technical Services Manager Maracne Harris
North Branch Librarian Connie Heneghan
South Branch Librarian Sally Schwrrzloso
Head of Children's Service, Jan Bojdu
Executive Secretary Ruth Granick
Administrative Services Manager Paul Gottschalk
OTHERS PRESENT Stephanie Pinnix, Teresa Grant. Linda Ganz, Shan Smaller, Amy Abrams, Arnie Graher.
Elaine Luckrtt. Jody Schuster, O. G. Bensun, Wendy Crawford, Maggie Weiss, Andrea
Sorensen, Jo Sherry, Marianne Goodfellow, Morton P, Drake, Paul B. Drake, Julia
Eisenstein, Mike Eiscnstein, Jeremy Friedman, Jeff Balch, Chris Bcnn, A. W. Piontck,
Linda Morris, Erica Chao, Sur C.hatz, Mary Hilmer, 7.ac Corcoran, Alice Corcoran,
Nicholas Shears, Laura Giles, J:tmcs Mahoney, Elizabeth Goodbcxly, Michael Bock,
Daniel Beck, Lloyd Davidson, Nancy Kaplan, Julya McEvoy, Chris Martin, Carol Wells,
Maureen Sullivan, Jackie Penrod, Mla.-y Kennedy, Susan Guana, Judith Warschausky
and children, Lisa Kupferberg, Sheila McCarthy-Dashovsky, John Dashovsky, Linda
Faller, Marilyn Mainardi, John Carly, Matt Wcstman, titan E.ppstein. Reggi Eppstein,
Sarah Marder-Eppstcin, Rohm Hershey, Norm Nexon, Liana Ncxon, Jeremy Nexon,
Patti Sherry, Xlegan C. Bo;1c, Barbara Tcrao, Jerry Fuller, Alex Kountnures, Marianne
Kountoures, Gust Vailas, Elda Klass, Carol W. T.McCrc%v, John McClellen. Junad Rizki,
Jodi Federa, David Perisho. Harts Friedmann, Cynthia Ncthcrcut, Nancy Doyle, Bob
Doyle, Barbara Meyer, Arthur Erickson, Yvi Russell, Patty Shafer, Becky Shafer, Mary
Mulvany, Carolyn Wangelin. Kathleen Kearney, Hal Kearney, Ellen Poler, Sheri
Maremont, Joan Ingram, Fran Rakestraw, John Maturo, Cindy Maturo, Nancy Smith,
Joe Goldman, Dan Kohut, Matthew Ozani, Bob Seidenberg of the Evanston Review,
Michael Guttman of the City Managers Office. (These were the people who signed in.
Many simply took scats.)
PRESIDING Cheryl Wollin, President
CALL TO ORDER President Wollin called the meeting to order at 7.40 P.M. She opened the meeting by
reading a statement presenting the Library Board's position regarding the Library budget
for 1997-98. The Library Board declines to direct the Library Director on budget cuts
necessary for a zero -growth budget, or to outline various options for cuts in service.
Mrs. Wollin said that the Board has no plans to close the branches, but does plan to
review them annually. (A copy of the statement is attached.)
COMMENTS FROM One hundred seventy Evanston citizens attended the meeting, and thirty spoke during
CITIZENS the hour that was allotted to citizen comment.
Y--i Russell read from a six page statement in support of the North Branch, calling it a
source of cuhtur.-J en6chment for Evanslon. She said there in no one. villain, end asked
how citizens can help are Board.
1 ,
1.,51
Fred Huhn spoke of ltuw his property Wm have Increamd flvi&ld sltu:a tie came to �.
Evanston 35 years ago and the value of his home has increased sevenfold. Although he '
uj } is on social security, he said he is perfectly willing to accept a one tenth or one fifth of 1
percent increase in his property tax to support the Library budget. He is not willing to
see a zero growth budget, which he called ludicrous.
Advocates of retaining the North Branch included 41h grader Becky Shafer, Marianne
Kountoures, Carol McGrew who moved to Evanston from Wilmette and spoke of the
importance of children being able to walk to a library and of the knowledge and warmth
of the North Branch staff, and Marshall Rosenthal. Andress DeMers said she was
horrified by the effect the branch closing would have on her children. Pau) Drake, 15
year old sophomore. at MS. remembered pluying the reading game and attending film
and puppet shows there. Nicholas Shears, a young lad, asked that his beloved branch
library be maintained. A young girl said she did not want to have to wait for her l6th
birthday to buy a car and then be able to get to a Iibrary for reading material. and Nancy
Smith spoke of the importance of North Branch to middle school students. Carolyn
Wangelin of the Central Street Business Association spoke of the importance of the
branch for business and the community.
Advocates of retaining the South Branch included 83 year old Agnes Ranseed, who
spoke of the branch's "tremendous role in continuing education" and said it enhances
the quality of life, loan Ingram, a clinical psychologist who works with children and
families and spoke of the many children who ride their tricycles to the branch and of the
importance of the pre -reading game. A representative of the Custer Street Neighbors,
the Bnrmmcl Street Neighbors, and Clyde -Callan, spoke of the importance of children
being able to walk to the South Branch safely rather than traveling to the Main Library
and perhaps risking harm from confused people. She expressed distress and outrage at
the funds spent on the downtown sidewalks, said her neighborhood was chart changed.
Advocates of the Bookmobile, included Maggie Weiss. who spoke of the, diverse
population that uses it_ Ann Rainey, who was on the Special City Council Committee on
the Main Library Project Ito build the new Main Library) said that "it just breaks my
heart" to think of Evanston losing the Bookmobile. Ms. Rainey did say that it may be
time for Bookmobile service to cod, but she hoped the Board would think about it
carefully.
Advocates of keeping both branches included Irwin Clam. who was introduced to his
first library in 1922 by lane Addams at Hull House and asked that the Board be aware of
the importance of branch libraries to patrons who can't or don't drive, Cindy Maturo
who spoke of young children able to walk to the branch without being intimidated, and
asked "what can we do to keep the branches open." Shan Marrtnont. who said that,
while he did not cn%y the Board's situation, he asked that it not take away library
accessibility to senior citizens and kids. Mr. Maremont suggested an annual fee for
library cards, corporate sponsors, and closing the Main Library one day a week.
Mrs. Wollin said that Sue Oldren. a supporter of the Library, was unable to attend the
meeting.
Frances Rakestraw remembered the old Carnegie Library, and the previous Main
-a Library, and spoke of a sense of community. Joe Goldman said that, on a purely fiscal
3 basis. the demand for housing in Evanston is tied to the Library. If the Library becomes
less inviting there will he less reason for people to shop here, buy homes, and the sales
taxes and real estate taxes will be affected. lane Loch said the community stands behind
= the Board for whatever needs to be done. Dan Kohut said that, while the Main Library
is in a wonderful builc+mg, people like to walk to alibrary. and :►skcd ahcrc the tax
money is going to. The overage in the School District 65 budget was mentioned.
Mm. Wallin reminded people that the City portion of the tat levy has not increased in
the last five years. Linda F-Aller said "tell us what we cart do:' Marianne Mainardi said
she would be glad to adt oc ee for Libms sulT<m among the aW at Nonhwestcm
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University. Steven Frasier, whd saw tba cid iJding at 1703 Orringion being built, ttuld
that reading is the most important thing humans can do. Junad Rizki said many City
programs could be sacrificed for the Library, and that the City budget funds should be
used differently.
Nancy Kaplan said the Main Library building is beautiful but the branches ere the jewel
in Evanston, the Board promised the branches would not be closed, and then she Ihanketl
the Board for its hard work.
Mrs. Wollin spoke of the budget timclinc . The City Manager has asked for the zero
growth Library budget by September 27th; he puts his own together and gives it to the
City Council at the end of ihu year, and City Council hearings, open to the public, will be
hold in January and February of 1997. Ths Board will advocate its own budget and
request support from the community.
At this time public corrment ended and the Board turned to its agenda. Most people
who'd attended the meeting (some of whom had to stand) left.
APPROVAL OF The Board reviewed the minutes of the regular Board meeting of August 21 and the
MINUTES September 3rd meeting of the Committee of the Whole.
Doris Brown moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP Approval The Evanston Public Library hoard of Trustees moves to approve the minutes
of Minutes of of the Library Board meeting of August 21, 1996 and the September 3, 1996
8/21/96 and meeting of the Committee of the Whole as amended.
9/3/96 Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The Board accepted the minutes of the September 4, 1996 meeting of the Fund for
Excellence '96-'97 Committee as received.
Neal Ncy spoke of how Sally Sehwarzlose, Head of South Branch, and Connie
Heneghan, H ". of North Branch, had been "real troopers" throughout, with staff
members ncreous and patrons asking what they can do. They had behaved in a most
appropriate and rmfessional manner in a difficult situation. Michael Cervantes said the
large turnout at the meeting and the quantity of phone calls received in support of the
branches illustrate importance of sticking to the Strategic Plan and reaching out to the
community,
OLD BUSINESS
Budget FY 1997-93 Trustees agreed that the Board would abdicate its responsibility if it accepted a budget
closing the branches. They spoke of the many Library advocates who attended this
meeting, and expressed confidence in the Library Director's professional judgment.
3 They directed him to draft a no -growth budget with no reductions in branch service and
keeping the materials accounts at least at their present level. This budget wall eliminate
y the bookmobile. The Board will not support this budget, but will instead advocate for its
own budget. Thc Board will make a presentation to the City Council on September 301h.
Both versions of the budget will eliminate bookmobile service. The Board's budget,
based on the Strategic Plan, would add a Children's Outreach position and a Computer
Support Technician, would include a 4% increase in the materials budget, and would
include funding for 100 additional periodical subscription. The "no growth" budget that
the Library Director is required to submit will also eliminate the bookmobile. It will not
include either of the proposed positions. This version of the budget does involve a
layoff of the Bookmobile Librarian. This is only the beginning of the budget process.
The final version of the budget will not be approved by the City Council until February.
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REPORTS
Developnwnl Mr. Cervantes listed the people who have t:ccepled an invitation to become part of the
Cettttttitua Fund for Hxcellence 96•97 Committee. He said he had received good feedback.
PRESIORNI"S Mrs, Wollin said there was a good, appreciative audience for the friends' Author
ROPORT program featuring lane Gleiter.
NRW 01.13INBS
Procedure for Mr. Ney briefly explained his rationale for this amendment to the Board policy, which
Delinquent states explicitly that the Library will not loan materials to patrons who are delinquent at
Ilumowers other libraries.
Archibald Bryant moved, second by Doris Brown
MSP Amend Uourd 'file Evonstan Public Library Board of Trustees moves to approve the Board Policy
Policy ott of Procedure for Delinquent l3ormwers as amended.
Delinquent Borrowers Parsed on a voice vote.
ADJOURNMl3NT Archibald Bryant moved, second by Michael Cervantes,
hISP Ad]ouin There bring no further business, the Evanston Public Library Board of Tru► cct
moves to adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote,
The mecting adjourned at 10.23 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dr, Gloria Bullock, Secretary
l;vnnstan Public Library Board of Trustees
DROVED OCPOBER &J9%
min917.doc
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September 1 7, 1996
The library Board of Trustees would like to clarify its position regarding the
library budget for 1997-98. Recent discussion has created confusion and
concern.
First, some background. For manyyears, the Library has operated as a
department of the Evanston city government. Thus, the Library Board does
not "set" the final Library budget. Like other city departments, its budget is
set by the city and is subject to the City Council and City Manager's orders to
cut costs and reduce spending. For manyyears the Library Director, senior
administrative staff, and the Board have, accordingly, made hard decisions to
cut library service, staff and operations to meet the City's directives. Each
year, the Library Director has prepared and submitted a budget that met the
City Manager's directives.
This year the City Manager has ordered all city departments to prepare "no
growth" budgets. These budgets may even be cut further. The Library
Director has asked the Library Board to give him direction on the budget
cuts necessary to get to a zero -growth budget, and has outlined various
options for cuts --including reducing or eliminating branch library service.
The Library Board has decided to decline to participate in this exercise. Such
a budget would require cuts that will diminish the quality and service of the
Library to an unacceptable level.
The Library Board and senior staff completed and presented to the City
Manager and the City Council a Strategic Plan for the Library for the needs
of the community in the next five years. The Strategic Plan addresses all
aspects of library operations, setting and prioritizing library goals. The
Library Board has prepared a fiscally responsible budget which meets the
immediate goals of the Strategic Plan. This budget meets the needs of the
Evanston Public Library for the coming year in an appropriate and efficient
way. Nowhere in this budget does the Library Board support, or even
suggest, closing the branch libraries.
The Strategic Plan does call for studying the effectiveness of branch services,
and the Library Board has reviewed the history arid current circulation data
- on both of the branches. We did adopt a policy that branch service would be
reviewed on an annual basis, To reach a decision, at this point in time,
without a careful fiscal analysis and needs assessment, is premature. The
Library Board is an advocate for quality library service and will give
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and solicit community input before making such a
The Library Board's proposed budget, which meets most of our needs for
the next year, is 3.2% over last year's budget. The Library Board recognizes
the city's budgetary crunch, and has aggressively done private fundraising in
the last two years to help develop the Library's collection. We continue to
do so with enthusiasm and energy.
The City Manager has directed the Library Director to submit only a zero -
growth budget. The Library Board's proposed budget does not and cannot
meet the zero -growth budget called for by the City Manager. While possible
cuts have been suggested, none of them are palatable to the Library Board.
Our position is that our budget is as lean and cost-effective as possible to
meet the Library's needs. We will advocate strongly for its approval, and we
ask foryour support.
Chetowollin
on behraif of the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
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Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
October 15, 1996; 7:30 p.m.
Library Board Room
Members Present: Camille Blachowicz, Doris Brown, Dr. Gloria Bullock,
Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Garber, Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer,
Cheryl Wollin
Members Absent: Archibald Bryant
Staff Present: Neat J. Noy, Paul Gottschalk, Lesley Williams, Ruth Gmnick
Presiding: Cheryl Wollin, President
Call to Order
Cheryl Wollin called the meeting to order at 8:21 p.m. Before the formal meeting the
Board and some members of the staff walked through the building In order to evaluate
the public relations impact of the building.
Mrs. Wollin then invited Lesley Williams, Head of Information Services, to share her
early impressions of the Library with the Board. Ms. Williams spoke of seeing the
Library from the inside in contrast to her past experience as a patron, and of what
needs to be done during the next several months in her department. She will start
working on raising the comfort level of her staff with technology; she finds a high
anxiety level with Intemet and other technology which, she fools, must be an integral
part of the daily work in Reference. Staff must be assured software will not crash.
This requires really good computer support. Internet access from the Reference Desk
Is undependable at this time. Ms. Williams said that standardization of practice needs
to be worked on, as well as the tun, around time in getting back to patrons.
Neal Ney informed the Board that Abby Schor, Collections Librarian, has resigned to
take a full-time position at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library.
Approval of the Minutes
Several changes were made in the minutes of the regular meeting and of the Committee
of the Whole.
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Drew Heindel,
MSP - Approval of the minutes of the Fund for Excellence Committee meetings of
September 12, September 24, and October 4, 1996, of the regular Board meeting of
September 17, 1996 and of the Committee of the Whole meeting of October 1, 1996, as
amended.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
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Future Budgets a*
Most of the meeting was devoted to a discussion of the possibility of a library
tax rate referendum. Neal Nay distributed an Information sheet on public library
referenda, November 1994 through March 1996. There was extensive discussion of
tho Library's budgetery needs, the requirements of State Law, and the City's financial
situation. The Board was In agreement that a tar, rate referendum should be
held at the Spring 1997 election or at the following election. A meeting was
scheduled for Tuesday, November 5th at 7.30 FM to talk about when the
referendum should be and what tax rate should be recommended. If the
Spring 1997 election is agreed upon the Board would be passing on to the City
Council on November 11 th a resolution calling for the referendum. (Sheldon
Garber left at this point.)
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Doris Brown,
MSP - That the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees seek a library tax rate
referendum at the Spring 1997 election or at the following election.
Passed unanlmously on a voice vote.
Library Technology Advisory Committee
Michael Cervantes spoke of the latest meeting of this Committee, at which Gary
Greenberg of Northwestern University sat in for Brian Nielsen; Chris Ryder of the
Chicago Tribune, Bruce Slown, the City's Information System Director, and Judy
Ream, Assistant Director of the North Suburban Library System, (NSLS) also
attended. The focus of this meeting was Investigation of the resources the Chicago
Tribune and NSLS can bring to the Library to aid the community's information network.
Doris Brown distributed soveral pages on the Evanston Community Information
Network.
Evanston Library Friends
Ellen Newcomer said that she will suggest that the Evanston Library Friends design a
more general Boole Fund brochure. She also suggested that the funds go to the
Library rather than passing through the Friends' accounts since this would simplify
accounting for the funds. She also said that the Garden Club of Evanston wants to do
a butterfly garden In one of the front planters and a prairie area in hack of the Library.
Trustees expressed pleasure at this offer.
Fees, Fines, Loan Periods and Schedule
The Board discussed a possible change in the loan period for all audiovisual
equipment.
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Doris Brown,
MSP - Approval of change of loan period for audiovisual equipment from 48 hours to one
-- week.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
2
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Building Project Funds
The Board ravlewed the expenditure of Library Project Funds for collection development.
Public Art for the Main Children's Room
Jonathan Glus, Director of the Evanston Arts Council, has requested that the Library
Board approve the expenditure of $600 as the Library's part in funding a mural project
for the south wall of the Children's Room.
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Ellen Newcomer
MSP - Approval of a request for $600 In book sale funds from the Evanston Library Friends
to help fund the south wall Children's Room mural project
Passed unanimously on a void vote.
Other Items and Concerns
Ms. Newcomer discussed the 1996 staff party, for which the Board is requesting
$1,500 from the Evanston Library Friends. This party will be held in the Library's
Community Meeting Room.
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Ellen Newcomer,
MSP - Approval of a request for $1,500 in book sale funds from the Evanston Library
Friends for the 1996 Evanston Public Library staff party.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Mrs. Woilin announced that the realty firm of Koenig and Strey has invited the Library
to a media event, and is giving $1,300 to the Library for special projects at the
branches. The funds were raised by parking cars on the firm's lot during Northwestern
football games.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:04 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Gloria Bullock, Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
PP ROVE,4) NOy1=MBEB„19. 19715
96
3
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present
Presiding:
Call to Order
APPROVED DECEMBER 17,1M
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
November 19, 1996; 7:30 p.m.
Library Board Room
Camille Biachowicz, Doris Brown, Archibald Bryant,
Dr. Gloria Bullock, Michael Cervantes, Drew Heindel, Ellen Newcomer.
Cheryl Wollin
Sheldon Garber
Neat J. Nay, Paul Gottschalk, Marlene Harris, Priscilla George,
Connie Heneghan, Muriel Schwartz, Sally Schwarziose, Ruth Granick
Maldel Cason, League of Women Voters
Cheryl Wollin, President
Mrs, Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:36 p.m, She informed the Board that Sheldon
Garber, temporarily incapacitated, would not be able to attend the meeting. She then
introduced Maidel Cason, League of Women Voters of Evanston observer.
Approval of the Minutes
Several changes were made in the minutes of the regular meoting, the meeting of the
Committee of the Whole, and one set of minutes of the Fund for Excellence Committee.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Doris Brown,
MSP - Approval of the minutes of the Library Technology Advisory Committee of October 10,
1996, the Fund for Excellence Committee meetings of October 15 and November 3, the regular
Board meeting of October 15, 1996 and of the Committee of the Whole meeting of November 5,
1996, as amended.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Old Business
Tax Levy Resolution -- FY 1997-98
Mrs. Wollin reported on the meeting she and Ms. Newcomer had with Roger Crum, City
Manager, in which she and Ms. Newcomer explained that a careful reading of Illinois
library law showed that our millage rate could be .0023. The meeting was quite amicable,
and Mr. Cnim acknowledged that the Board's Tax Levy Resolution be presented to the
City Council for its consent agenda on Monday. As to the question of debt service for the
Library building. Mrs. Wallin explained to the Board that when the now building was
constructed the City Council elected to finance the construction with general obligation
bonds rather than directing the Library Board to seek relerendum approval for the
constructlon bonds. Therefore, the debt service is an obligation of the City Council and
cannot be transferred to the Library Board. Since IMRF, FICA, and Medicare payments
are not presently part of the Library's budget, they were not taken into account when
calculating the tax rate; that is because the Library Board Is authorized by other sections of
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the Illinois Compiled Statutes to levy, In addition to its authorized corporate fund tax rate,
the full costs of participation in 1MRF. FICA, and Med'+eare.(Dr Gloria Bullock entered at
this point.)
Camille Blachowicz moved, second by Archibald Bryant,
MSP - That the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees approves the resolution determining
the financial requirements of the Library for the fiscal year March 1, 1997 through February 28,
1998, as amended. This resolution directs the City Council to levy S2,588,680 to support the
Library Board's budget in FY 1997-98.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
(The resolution Is attached.)
Materials Policy
Neal Noy presented a draft materials policy, including language concerning electronic
resources.
Camillo Blachowicz roved, second by Doris Brown,
MSP - That the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to accept the materials policy
as revised.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Reports
Fund for Excellence Committee
Ms. Newcomer said ilia campaign letters are being mailed, and that an anonymous $2,000
gift had already been received.
Library Technology Advisory Committee
Michael Cervantes said that the digital Cities meeting was a success. The Chicago
Tribune was pleased; Mayor Morton attended, as did City Manager Roger Crum and a
representative of School District 65. The purpose of the meeting was to inform the
community about Digital Cities and the opportunity for all to have a web page. Mrs. Woilin
said Marlene Harris and Judith Ream of the North Suburban Library System (NSLS) had
done a good job at the demonstration. Ms. Harris is scheduling a North Star Net
orientation meeting and two training sessions fur January.
President Wolltn's Report
Mrs. Wollin expressed concem with the high costs of the NSLS workshop on effective
trusteeship.
Vice President Newcomer's Report
Financial Statement
A question was raised as to why meeting room rentals are only at 50% of budget,
Mr. Gottschalk pointed out that when the estimate was made we had not deducted for the
boost in income due to North Light Theatre being at the Library during the Iasi fiscal year.
Evanston Library Friends
Ms. Newcomer said that Family Night was a big success, with a magician (Bob Miller), a
musician (Steve Rashid), and two story tsflers - Mudal Schwartz and .tan Bo]da.
2
A
Old Bualneas
Branch Needs
Mr. Noy Invited the branch managers to discuss their needs.
Connie Heneghan, North Branch Manager, said the present design of the office is
Inappropriate for work tasks, and the rear alloy Is hazardous with a big gully and no
drainage. She said the present site is excellent, but more staff and support are needed,
and she hopes that tho now positions will aid the branches.
Sally Schwarzlose, South Branch Manager, said that the public rest rooms at the branch
need renovation, the awning Is falling, lights are needed in basement, and a new
circulation desk is needed, as well as new wiring so that a computer can be Installed in
the staff room. The branch needs more space and a new location that would make it more
accdssible to pedestrians from the Main Street shopping area.
Mrs. Brown asked what the goals and mission of the branches were. Mr. Noy said the
branches were organized as popular material centers. Mrs. Schwarzlose said South
Branch serves families with young children, seniors, and mentally handicapped citizens.
She spoke of the Hispanic Outreach Program conducted at the branch, and said that a
branch manager should order her own books, as she knows what her population requires.
Branch manager is a hall -time position requiring full-time work. The hours at South
Branch have no consistency from one day to the next; it Is difficult for patrons to keep track
of them, and South Branch closes early so that people cannot come there after worts.
The branches do reference work but do not have specific reference tools. Drew Heindel
= said the branches offer services citizens have grown to expect, but benign neglect has
caused a decline in those services. He said that, although through the years Library
Boards have not closed the branches, they have also not evaluated them, or defined what
the branches should provide. Branches are particularly community related, while the main
library is more service oriented. Mr. Cervantes wondered whether a strategic plan was
needed for the branches.
Mrs. Brown said that Internet should be available at the branches for public use.
Mrs. Heneghan said she appreciated Mr. Ney's candor concerning the branches, said he
- has visited the branches and spoken to staff, Mrs. Schwarzlose thanked the Board for
listening, and the Board thanked both branch managers for their input.
Mr. Noy was instructed to work with the Library's staff to develop a mission projection for
the branches, answering the question "What can the branches do to aid in fulfilling the
Library's mission?"
December Meetings
The December meeting of the Committee of the Whole was canceled, and discussion
ensued on the practicability of changing Board meeting dates in 1997.
Doris Brown moved, second by Camille Blachowicz.
MSP - That the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees moves to schedule its regular
-_ meetings in 1997 for the third Wednesday of each month, and the meetings of the Committee of
the Whole for the first Wednesday of each month.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
3
4
39
Strategic Plan Update .
The Board discussed updating the Strategic Flan. Mr. heindal and Mr. Bryant were
appointed to serve as Board members of the Planning Committee Mr. Noy will select a
staff member to join him on the Committee.
125th Anniversary
Mr. Noy was Instructed to request that the 1998 City Sticker celebrate the Library's 125th
anniversary, Further discussion about the 125th Anniversary will begin in April of 1997.
The Board also discussed the possibility of some kind of fund-raising event In connection
with the Installation of the Richard Hunt sculpture.
Adjournment
Michael Cervantes moved, second by Doris Brown,
MSP - There being no further business, the Evanston Public Library Beard of Trustees moves to
adjourn.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
The meeting adjourned at 11:05 P.M,
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Gloria Bullock, Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
shared admin marl 119.doc
4
APPROVED DECEMBER 17, 1996
P;�,'r'.v}i7•*fir: t-*""►�Id?' W(j7"(r �r 4l �i�i: ' � - ,
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
December 17, 1996; 7:30 p.m.
Library Board Room
Members Present: Camille Blachowicz, Doris Brown, Dr. Gloria Bullock,
Michael Cervantes, Sheldon Garber, Drew Helndel, Ellen Newcomer,
Cheryl Wollin
Members Absent: Archibald Bryant
Staff Present: Neat J. Noy, Paul Gottschalk, Marlene Harris, Ruth Granick
Others Present: Mafdel Cason, League of Women Voters Observer
Presiding: Cheryl Wollin, President
Cali to Order
Cheryl Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:37 p.m. She Informed the Board that
she had received notification from George H. Ryan, Secretary of State and State
Librarian, that the Library has received the Per Capita Grant for this year.
Approval of the Minutes
Several changes were made in the minutes of the regular Board meeting.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Camille Blachowicz,
MSP - Approval of the minutes of the regular Board meeting of November 19, 1996 as
amended.
Passed unanimously on a voico vote.
Old Business
Budget FY1997/98
The only item of business was the legal opinion from the City Attorney concerning the
Library Board's levy resolution, which Mrs. Wollin suggested should be discussed later
in the meeting.
Vice President Newcomer's Report
Financial Statement
Ms. Newcomer detailed the status of the Fund for Excellence Campaign; most fetters
have boon mailed.
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Evanaton library Friends d�
The Library Board expressed its gratitude for the generous $25,000 contribution the
Friends made to the Fund for Excellence.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Sheldon Garber,
MSP - Approval of a resolution of gratitude to the Evanston Library Friends for their many
important contributions to the Evanston Public Library.
Passed unanimously on a voice vota.
Library Director's Report
Mr. Noy will request that the 1999 City of Evanston vehicle sticker celebrate the
Library's 125th anniversary (the Evanston Historical Society will be featured on the
1998 sticker). He also mentioned an Inquiry by Alderman Newman about the Library's
acquisition of the Groves Dictionary of Art, a premier art reference work.
Ellen Newcomer spoke of the latest power outage at the Library, which occurred on a
busy Saturday afternoon. She said that, while there was no panic, there were areas in
the Library in which visibility was poor. Drew Heindel explained that the Library's
emergency lighting conforms to the Safety Code. Alternate sources for emergency
lighting were discussed - this was the third power outage that occurred during the
Library's open hours this year.
New Business
Books on Wheels and Home Day Care Delivery
Mrs. Blachowicz said that the Friends have volunteers for the Books on Wheels
program but no coordinator as yet. In response to a question as to whether these
programs would be able to till the void created by the coming lack of a Library
bookmobile, Mr. Noy referred to his memo on this subject, in which he explained that
"the services provided by the three programs (bookmobile, Books on Wheels and the
Home Day Care Delivery program) are inherently different... and seldom overlap."
Gucheldle Bequest
Ms. Newcomer informed the Board of a $10,000 bequest to the Library from Gertrude
Gscheidle, who was Commissioner of the Chicago Public Library. These funds are to
be spent on the sort of literature Ms. Gscheldle chose to read as patron of our library.
Ellen Newcomer moved, second by Sheldon Garber.
MSP - The $10,000 bequest from the estate of Gertrude Gscheidle is to be designated as
endowment, and used in the general spirit of the bequest.
Passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Sheldon Garber suggested that a written endowment policy be created. This was
scheduled for the February, 1997 meeting of the Committee of the Whole.
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Case Statements for New Positions
There was discussion of Important outreach to the schools that will bo made possible
by the new position of Children's Outreach Services Librarian. Mr. Noy indicated that
this position Is now included In the City Manager's budget.
Marione Harris spoke of the heavy work load now carried by the Library's
Programmer/Operator, the difficulty of one person's maintaining all the Library's
technological equipment, and the necessity of an additional fu111-time Wall member
devoted to the support and maintenance of the Library's automation Infrastructure,
Consensus wus not only that this second position is of the utmost Importance to the
smooth functioning of the Library's automation equipment, but that the present
Programmer/Operator position should be reclassified to exempt,
NEH Challenge Grant Special Initiative
It was felt that this was not the time for Library staff to work on this project. The
application was forwarded to the Evanston Historical Society for consldoratlon of a
possible joint project.
In -Service Day
Consensus held that this was a "great Idea".
,
Doris Brown moved, second by Camille Blachowicz,
M'SP - Approval of the closing of the main Library on June 25, 1997 for a staff in-service
day.
Passed unanimously on a voice vote.
Mrs. Wollin spoke of the December 16th City Council meeting. In January, Library
Board Trustees will meet with members of the City Council for an open discussion of
the Library's relationship with the City government and the control of its budget.
- Alderman Engelman requested information on how community/public library
relationships are structured In other home rule communities in Illinois.
Adjournment
At 9:30 P.M. the Board adjourned into executive session to discuss potential
litigation.
The regular Board meeting was reconvened at 10:28 P.M.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 10:28 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Gloria. Bullock, Secretary
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
&g aved Janus 1 S.1 97 ,
3
J
EVANSTON • PUBLIC
L I B K A K Y
Church & Orringlon, Cvansion, illinnis 60201
Phone; (708)866•{1 o rax: f7011)866.0111
Resolution of Thanks for the Evanston Library Friends
WHEREAS; the City of Evanston has just been graced with a now library building, and
WHEREAS; the Evanston Library Friends played a key role in mobilizing community support
for this undertaking, and
WHEREAS: the Evanston Library Friends purchased a state-of-the-art projection system for
the Community Meeting Room in the new library building, and
WHEREAS; the Evanston Library Friends chose to mark the opening of the new
building by decorating the City with festive banners encouraging library use, and
WHEREAS, the Evanston Literary Friends are already hard at work planning programs and
events to take place In Evanston's new Library, and
WHEREAS; the Evanston Library Friends have been true friends to the Evanston Public Library
for more than ten years, providing the Library with financial support, volunteer help,
an attractive newsletter, and quality programs,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; that the Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees does
extend its grateful thanks to the Evanston Library Friends and eagerly anticipates the
future products of Its productive relationship with the Friends.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that a signed copy of this resolution be transmitted to the
Evanston Library Friends as a token of our appreciation, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that another Copy of this resolution be displayed In the Evanston
Public Library for all patrons of the Library to see.
Approved this 18th Day
of October,1994
G
President
Secretary