Present: Rebecca Dickerson, Bob Bates, Teresa Myott, Steve Balzarini, Chuck Petras, Bev Pearce, Kristie Kirkpatrick and Peggy Bryan.

Board chair Rebecca Dickerson called the meeting to order at 4:34. She asked for additions or modifications. Kristie noted she has some additions she will incorporate under new business.

The minutes of the previous meeting were reviewed. Steve Balzarini motioned to approve the October minutes, Teresa Myott seconded and the motion passed.

Peggy presented the financial reports for October 2013. She presented payment voucher resolution #22-13 totaling $74,954.13. Bob Bates made a motion to approve the resolution; Teresa Myott seconded and the motion passed.

WCL saw a slight drop in traditional materials circulation for October as compared with one year ago. For the 2nd month in a row Lacrosse saw a 50% increase with praise going out to manager Angela Bennett and to Lacrosse Community Pride for providing such an amazing new facility. Thanks also to Peggy Bryan for her work in Lacrosse. Other locations seeing sizeable increases were Endicott, Farmington, Rosalia and Uniontown.

Kristie emphasized that locations like St. John, Tekoa, Palouse and Colfax continually post strong, stable statistics so they rarely get mentioned during the circulation report. Some of WCL’s other locations have less circulation or program attendance leaving them more room for improvement.

Attendance at programs increased strongly with children’s up by 377, YA up by 75 and adult up by 187.

Please note Garfield Library’s very poor attendance numbers which coincide with the exit of manager Kelsey Gallegos. It is our hope that new manager, Melissa Stramel will bring improved services, programming and stability to the Garfield Branch.

CONTINUING BUSINESS:

Kristie announced that WCL is thrilled to be part of IT Academy. Microsoft and Washington State Legislature teamed together to provide training for Washington residents on digital literacy and a multitude of Microsoft programs. Those participating can also become certified, improving their job skills and resumes. Kristie and James attended the public announcement at Spokane Public Library.

NEW BUSINESS:

Kristie introduced Bev Pearce, Palouse Branch Manager. She reviewed facts about the Palouse Library, noting the support from the Xenodican Club through the years. Bev discussed the upcoming Turkey Leg Fun Run on Thanksgiving, with proceeds purchasing children’s books for the Palouse Library.

Kristie announced that Don and Teresa Myott are the November Supporters of the month. The Myotts have given generously of both their time and resources. Teresa has served 8 years on the Board of Trustees, assisted with displays and crafts in the Palouse Library and supported a variety of fundraising events. The Myotts are long-time Friends of the Palouse Library and have contributed historic images from their private collection to the Whitman County Rural Heritage online collection.

Kristie announced that a search for a board member to replace Teresa is under way. The search is currently focusing upon the northern part of the county.

Kristie reviewed the public records request policy. A brief discussion followed and a slight correction made. Resolution #23-13, adding Appendix S, Public Records Policy to the policy manual was presented. Chuck Petras motioned to accept the resolution; Teresa Myott seconded and the motion passed.

Kristie explained that dates the library closes each year are listed in WCL’s Policy Manual. She noted that the 4th of July falls on a Friday, and asked that the calendar be modified to include Saturday, July 5th as a closed day. Bob Bates motioned that WCL close on Saturday, July 5. Steve Balzarini seconded and the motion passed.

Kristie announced that First Wind is funding additional hours at Rosalia and expanded programming at Oakesdale. Their donation will enhance library service in both locations.

Kristie announced that the Community Colleges of Spokane are offering new classes at the library in 2014. She encouraged the Board to help spread the word about these inexpensive classes.

Kristie asked the board to consider a special election in 2014 that would restore the levy rate to $.50 per $1000 of assessed property value in 2015. The levy rate is currently $.46 per $1000. If approved the property tax revenue would increase WCL’s annual budget by approximately $46,919.03. Kristie suggested the Levy Reset be included in the February 11, 2014 special election as other ballot issues may lower WCL’s cost. A brief discussion followed. The board concurred that WCL should proceed. Kristie will have a resolution prepared for the next board meeting.

Kristie reviewed the library calendar of events, encouraging Board members to attend whenever possible.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:25. The next meeting will be on Friday December 13 at 2:15 p.m. following the Winter Luncheon for Staff, Board and Friends.

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Peggy Bryan, Recording Secretary

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Rebecca Dickerson, Board Chair

For more information, contact:

Kristie Kirkpatrick at 509-397-4366