MEETING MINUTES
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FEBRUARY 20, 2003
The regular monthly meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library was held on Thursday, February 20, 2003, in the Central Library pursuant to due notice to trustees. The following members were present: Daniel T. Roach, Chairman; Rebecca L. Mahoney, Vice Chair
Annette A. Juncewicz, Secretary; William P. Brosnahan; Phyllis A. Horton; John B. Long; Elaine M. Panty; Judith K. Summer; Stanley H. Zagora; George M. Zimmermann, Trustee Emeritus. Excused: James W. Burns, ill; Abdul H. Raoof; Sharon A. Thomas; Raul Vazquez; Wayne D. Wisbaum.
Chairman Roach called the meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. in the Joseph B. Rounds Conference Room.
Agenda Item B - Approval / Changes to Agenda. Chairman Roach entertained a motion to add an item to the agenda. Ms. Mahoney so moved to add Agenda Item J.2, Resolution 2003-10 to the Agenda. Ms. Horton seconded and the motion was carried.
Agenda Item C - Minutes of the Meeting of January 16, 2003. Ms. Mahoney made a motion to approve the Minutes. Ms. Horton seconded and the Minutes were approved as mailed.
Agenda Item D - Report of the Chair. Chairman Roach remarked that Ms. Panty had just concluded her 3-year term as Vice Chair and thanked her for her significant contributions to the Library during her years as a Trustee.
Agenda Item E - Committee Reports
Agenda Item E.1 - Executive Committee. Ms. Mahoney reported the Committee met on February 13th. Deputy Director Kenneth Stone explained the budget and finance resolutions on the agenda and talked about the changes in state retirement contributions. Ms. Horton reported on the activities of the Bylaws Committee. The contract for Central Library renovations was explained. Cutbacks in library aid and the need for advocacy from all B&ECPL Trustees were also discussed.
Agenda Item E.2 - Budget & Finance Committee. Mr. Roach called on Deputy Director Stone to present the report.
Agenda Item E.2.a - Contract Library Transfers. Several transfers were required to close 2002 books. In particular, transfers were made to cover 2002 retirement charges and some expenses related to early retirement incentives. Ms. Panty made a motion, seconded by Ms. Summer, and the following was approved unanimously:
RESOLUTION 2003-5
WHEREAS, a request for budget transfers has been received from the Amherst Public Library, Aurora Town Public Library, Cheektowaga Public Library, Clarence Public Library, Grand Island Memorial Library, Hamburg Public Library, City of Tonawanda Public Library and Town of Tonawanda Public Library, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library approve transfers totaling $16,065 within the budget of the Amherst Public Library, $577 within the budget of the Aurora Town Public Library, $11,877 within the budget of the Cheektowaga Public Library, $6,020 within the budget of the Clarence Public Library, $10,098 within the budget of the Grand Island Memorial Library, $5,178 within the budget of the Hamburg Public Library, $1,246 within the budget of the City of Tonawanda Public Library and $29,166 within the budget of the Town of Tonawanda Public Library.
Agenda Item E.2.b - Verizon Grant Transfer. Deputy Director Stone reminded trustees that Verizon SuperPages provided a grant in the amount of $50,000 for Project L.E.A.D. (Libraries Expand Access for Discovery) through Technology. This will result in a second training lab at the Central Library. The grant will also help support the Live Homework Help program. The resolution will approve transferring a portion of the L.E.A.D. funds to the Library Foundation so the Live Homework Help program can continue without interruption while the Foundation proceeds with fund-raising efforts. Live Homework Help is now available at all Buffalo branch libraries. A motion was made by Ms. Horton and seconded by Ms. Panty.
Ms. Mahoney congratulated the parties involved for retaining this valuable service and making it available to even more students, particularly in light of anticipated funding difficulties in school systems. She has had positive feedback from teachers. Ms. Mahoney asked if the Library keeps statistics to determine how often this service is being utilized. Deputy Director Ruth Collins replied the B&ECPL was handling approximately 650 sessions per month during the pilot program. With additional publicity generated by the L.E.A.D. grant, usage is expected to increase. Ms. Collins said the remaining funds will be used for staff training, which will result in more computer instruction for students during class visits.
Director Michael Mahaney informed Trustees that the anticipated opening of the new L.E.A.D. Through Technology Training Lab would be on March 5th at 10 a.m. In addition to Verizon SuperPages, WKBW-TV Channel 7 is partnering in this project. Funds from the State, Erie County and Library Foundation were also applied. He explained that tutor.com provides quantitative statistics as well as qualitative information from Live Homework Help users, who rate the effectiveness of the service they receive.
Mr. Brosnahan inquired whether Verizon SuperPages will be thanked for their sponsorship of this program. Mr. Mahaney said a Verizon SuperPages representative will be at the March 5th opening. B&ECPL will express its gratitude as the project progresses. Chairman Roach referred to Ms. Horton's previous motion, and the resolution was approved unanimously.
RESOLUTION #2003-6
WHEREAS the Library Foundation of Buffalo and Erie County, Inc. has supported B&ECPL's pilot subscription to Live Homework Help, an online tutoring service supplied through tutor.com, and
WHEREAS a portion ($20,000) of the recent "LEAD (Libraries Expand Access for Discovery) Technology" grant to the B&ECPL from Verizon SuperPages has been designated to fund an extension of this pilot to include all Buffalo branches, and
WHEREAS the Library Foundation has indicated its desire to seek funds to extend this online tutoring service into the future, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library authorizes the transmittal of $20,000 in proceeds from the "LEAD through Technology" grant from Verizon SuperPages to the Library Foundation of Buffalo and Erie County, Inc., so this valuable service to students may continue without disruption.
Trustee Long arrived at approximately 4:07 p.m.
Agenda Item E.2.c - Amend 2003 Budget for State Aid Member Item - Elma Public Library. New York State Assembly Member Sandra Lee Wirth designated a grant in aid in the amount of $5,000 to assist the Elma Public Library. Deputy Director Stone said due to the uncertain status of library funding in 2003, this resolution would authorize the Elma Public Library to accept these funds and retain them until such time as they may be needed to maintain library services. On motion by Ms. Panty, seconded by Ms. Horton, the resolution was unanimously approved as follows:
RESOLUTION #2003-07
WHEREAS, on February 4th the Library received notification from the State Department of Education that "A grant-in-aid in the amount of $5,000 has been apportioned to your library system," and
WHEREAS, this member aid item was sponsored by New York State Assembly Member Sandra Lee Wirth to assist the Elma Public Library in her district, and
WHEREAS, supplemental private and public grants are regularly sought to augment library equipment materials and other needs, and
WHEREAS, given the uncertain status of the New York State Budget (hence State Library Aid) and New York State Retirement System increased charges, it is desirable to authorize the contracting library to retain these funds until such time as they are needed to offset any impacts from these factors, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library gratefully accepts the $5,000 in state aid, and be it further
RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library approves a budget amendment to the 2003 budget increasing Revenue Account SFG #8209734206390107 (state aid special) in the amount of $5,000 and Expenditure Account SFG #8209734208300165 (Elma Public Library) in the amount of $5,000, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library authorizes the above contracting library to retain these funds until such time as they are needed to offset future aid reductions or increased State Retirement expense, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library strongly suggests the contracting library retain these funds for the above purposes as the State Budget picture for 2003 is still unclear and both state and local financial resources may be further challenged in 2004, and be it further
RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution and a revised Exhibit A be transmitted to the above library to implement the change.
Agenda Item E.2.d - Budget Transfer for Maintenance Services. Deputy Director Stone explained this resolution would transfer funds from the personnel budget to a professional services contract line in order to allow the Library's former Maintenance Supervisor, Robert Gervan, to continue working for the Library in a part-time capacity, primarily related to supervising asbestos management tasks and other maintenance projects as assigned. This will allow the Library to continue to run two asbestos shifts per week and will result in a cost savings to the B&ECPL. Ms. Panty made a motion to approve Resolution 2003-8 and was seconded by Ms. Summer. The following resolution was approved unanimously:
RESOLUTION 2003-08
WHEREAS, on August 7, 2002, the Executive Committee approved Resolution 2002-47, Early Retirement Incentive (ERI) Program Recommendations, and
WHEREAS, Library Maintenance Supervisor Robert Gervan, who participated in the 2002 ERI program, has returned to the Library in a part-time capacity (16 hours per week) to supervise asbestos management tasks and related maintenance projects as assigned, and
WHEREAS, funds to support this activity resulted from the B&ECPL savings plan for participation in the Early Retirement Incentive Program, and
WHEREAS, to continue this part-time support beyond March 2003, a personal services contract is needed, necessitating a budget transfer from the Personal Services line to the Dues & Fees (Consulting Services) line, and
WHEREAS, this continued support is needed to supervise individual asbestos management plan tasks and related maintenance projects as assigned, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library Board of Trustees approves a budget transfer between the following accounts:
FROM: SFG 820 973 420 800 Personal Services $10,630
TO: SFG 820 973 420 821 Dues and Fees $10,630
and be it furtherRESOLVED, that the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library Board of Trustees authorizes the Library Director to execute a personal services contract for 21 weeks, with two options to renew, to implement the above services.
Agenda Item E.3 - RENEWAL Committee. Ms. Mahoney reported on the February 12th community meeting held in South Buffalo. Trustees Panty, Horton and Roach, as well as several members of the administrative staff, were in attendance. Legislator Mark Schroeder, Council Member Mary Martino and Deputy County Executive Carl Calabrese also attended along with approximately 100 members of the community. Library staff and public officials made a presentation and took comments and questions. Very little opposition was voiced, and it was an encouraging meeting. The RENEWAL Committee then met on February 18th and decided to hold one more community meeting to give everyone another opportunity to hear about the proposed project. The meeting will be held on March 20th at the Tosh Collins Community Center. Ms. Mahoney feels it is important that Board members hear firsthand what the community is thinking because Trustees will need to make a decision about this in the near future. Ms. Panty stated she feels this would be good for South Buffalo because the new facility would be handicapped accessible and have a community meeting room.
Agenda Item E.4 - Benefits Committee. Ms. Summer reported on recent activities of the Benefits Committee. Issues are being resolved at each meeting. Two more meetings are currently scheduled, and Ms. Summer is very optimistic that the goal of presenting a draft to contracting libraries in May will be met.
Agenda Item E.5 - Bylaws Committee. The Committee has had two very productive meetings. The number of committees and functions of each are being discussed as well as attendance requirements for Trustees. Gender neutral language is being incorporated throughout the Bylaws. Revisions should be completed after one more meeting, and recommendations may come before the full Board at the next regular meeting.
Agenda Item F. - Report of the Director.
Director Michael Mahaney mentioned the additional items that had been included in the Board packet, one being the final 2002 Goals and Objectives report. Mr. Mahaney intends to prepare a 2003 Goals and Objectives document in coming weeks.
In regard to the 2002 report, Ms. Panty asked whether the System would realize a cost savings if additional libraries joined the Centralized Human Resources program. Director Mahaney said there could be cost avoidance if the System eliminated duplicate services. Additional libraries have expressed an interest in joining CHR.
Ms. Panty inquired about anti-theft devices at branch libraries and wanted to know if the System is experiencing any unusual theft problems. Director Mahaney stated that while theft can occur at any library, the B&ECPL has not been experiencing any significant instances of theft. Anti-theft devices will be a part of any new library that is built, but at the present time there is no funding available to install anti-theft devices at city libraries.
Ms. Panty also asked if there are plans to install Zoomtext at the Riverside Library in the future. Assistant Deputy Director Mary Jean Jakubowski replied that Zoomtext training for staff will commence shortly. Libraries that feel they have a need for this technology can request to have it installed. She also inquired about the Ultrascan finger imaging pilot program. Director Mahaney stated the Library has been working with Ultrascan to tailor the system to our needs and believes it could be beneficial to expand this service eventually, but at the present time it is cost prohibitive.
Director Mahaney also reported on activities of February 12th, which included the State of the County address and an advocacy program at the Clarence Library, as well as the RENEWAL meeting in the evening. He invited Ms. Summer to report on the advocacy program.
Trustee Summer said that Chancellor Bennett and Commissioner Mills were in attendance. Many recommendations for library staff and trustees were discussed, including the need to work with partners to achieve better results and specific potential partners to consider. One of the responsibilities of trustees is to advocate for the library as an institution, talk to State and County legislators and write letters. She distributed a sample letter and list of all B&ECPL libraries that indicated in which district they are located. More information on this topic will be included in the upcoming ACT Trustee Workshop planned for April 12th. Director Mahaney is working with ACT trustees to develop topics for this workshop, and more information on advocacy initiatives will be available shortly. The intent of this current initiative is to target State legislators regarding State Aid for public libraries.
Director Mahaney also advised trustees that Buffalo has completed real estate transactions for the new North Jefferson Library, and it could go to bid by the end of March. The reading program with the Buffalo Sabres has been suspended due to the instability of the Sabres organization. He also spoke about the memo included in the packet from CFO Stone. It articulates the crisis in state aid and explains the increased costs for pension benefits. B&ECPL has suspended external hiring and will manage vacancies to generate additional savings.
Chairman Roach reported a meeting was held recently with State legislators. They were receptive and he had the feeling they would like to support the Library System if possible.
The following report was submitted by the Director and transmitted to Board members prior to the meeting.
South Buffalo Reacts to RENEWAL Proposal: On February 12th, approximately 100 South Buffalo residents braved harsh winter weather to express their views on the County Executive's proposal to construct one new state-of-the-art library to replace two aging and inadequate facilities. By a show of hands early in the proceedings, between 80 and 90% of those who attended expressed approval of the proposal. By an impressive margin, those who made oral presentations support the concept, with the most often repeated question: "Where would the new library be located?" The RENEWAL Committee meets next week to consider the community's expression of support.
The Director welcomed the public to the meeting and moderated. Trustee Rebecca Mahoney, Chair of the RENEWAL committee, spoke briefly about the mission of that committee and what it has accomplished to date. Assistant Deputy Director Ami Patrick introduced the "Breaking New Ground" video, which features recent library construction projects in Erie County to illustrate the kind of advantages a new library offers to the community. Deputy County Executive Carl Calabrese explained the terms of the County's offer of support for this proposed demonstration project. Completing the formal agenda were Erie County Legislator Mark Schroeder and Buffalo Common Council Member Mary Martino who discussed some possible locations for a new building, suggestions for the re-use of current buildings and other matters. An opportunity for public comment and limited questions and answers followed. B&ECPL Chairman Daniel T. Roach and Trustee Elaine Panty spoke briefly at the close of the meeting. Trustee Phyllis Horton and administrators Ruth Collins, Ken Stone and Sharon Holley also attended.
State of the Library Address: On February 5th, approximately 300 staff from locations throughout the Library System gathered in the Central Library's Mason O. Damon Auditorium for one of two presentations (morning and afternoon) of the Director's "State of the Library" address. Successes of 2002 were highlighted. Glimpses of what 2003 promises with respect to technology, service enhancements and increasingly challenging budget projections followed. Deputy Directors Collins, Stone and Whelan participated, offering status reports and targets in each of their areas of responsibility. A question and answer period concluded each of the two sessions.
January Fine Revenue Results: Based on January System-wide receipts of $106,186.80 (up 45% from $73,485.59 in January 2002), fine revenues appear to be tracking near the lower end of the $400,000 to $600,000 range of increases anticipated in 2003's budget. CFO Ken Stone cautions that a single month's total can be influenced by many factors (e.g., unseasonable weather) and may not provide a reliable indication of long-term results. He will continue to monitor and report revenue results.
L.E.A.D. through Technology: Thanks to a $50,000 grant from Verizon SuperPages, Central Library staff has developed a new program that will debut in March. "Libraries Expand Access for Discovery (LEAD) through Technology" has several components for teachers, students and adults and is designed to assist in closing the digital divide for those who do not enjoy ready access to computer technology and the Internet. Teachers can bring student groups to the Central Library for a training session in the new LEAD Computer Lab. On Saturdays (and Sundays during the school year) from 1 to 5 p.m., students can use the lab for practice and school assignments. Adults will have access to the lab for use of Internet tutorials 10 hours per week with "monitors" who can assist them in their self-study. The Verizon award, together with New York State and local government dollars, and private funds raised by the Library Foundation, made possible: the creation of the new computer training lab, the hiring of part-time staff as lab monitors and the Live Homework Help subscription through June 2003. Network and Maintenance personnel have been working steadily to complete the remodeling and installation of equipment and furnishings by the proposed opening date of March 5th.
B&ECPL Celebrates Black History Month: On Saturday, February 8th, approximately 80 people, young and old, braved cold temperatures to attend "Along This Way: Storytelling in the African Tradition" in the Central Library's Mason O. Damon Auditorium. The event featured storytelling and music from We All Storytellers, Sharon Holley and Karima Amin. They were accompanied by percussionist Sowande' Eddie Nicholson and vocalist Joyce Carolyn. Colorful quilts by local quilter Mrs. Estelle Anderson provided the backdrop for the program. On February 15th, Maelstrom Percussion Ensemble presented the sounds and rhythms of the music of Africa, Asia and Latin America. Both events were funded by the Library Foundation of Buffalo and Erie County, Inc.
In addition, original art from the book Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales has been shared with several Buffalo branch libraries for exhibition during the month of February. Many branches held related programs to showcase the exhibitions. Libraries throughout Buffalo and Erie County conducted programs or exhibits to celebrate the annual observance of Black History Month.
Central Library Renovation Proceeds: Several productive meetings with the Habiterra Design Team have resulted in refinements to the renovation plan that permit some pre-construction improvements for public service delivery. Glenn Luba, recently promoted to Librarian II in the Business, Science and Technology Department, has joined the project team to assist with concept development and background work. His Bachelor of Technology degree in Mechanical Engineering from R.I.T. and previous experience in the field of engineering are being put to good use in this assignment.
Live Homework Help Program Expanded: Through a generous grant from Verizon SuperPages, the Live Homework Help pilot program has been expanded to include all Buffalo branch libraries, as of February 1st. From 2 until 10 p.m. daily, Live Homework Help allows students in Grades 4 through 12 to interact on-line in sessions up to 20 minutes in length with a qualified tutor through commercial vendor tutor.com. This newest phase of the program brings access to 16 B&ECPL libraries through the end of the school year. In addition to all Buffalo branches, the tutoring is also available at the Central Library and the Reinstein Memorial Library in Cheektowaga. Remote access is available through the Library's web site. Network Support technicians have been working to upgrade the browser software on public access computers at all Buffalo branches to accommodate the new service. The Library Foundation, which funded the earlier phase of the Live Homework Help pilot for Central and two locations, is seeking funds to continue the service after the current subscription ends.
Meeting with WNY Delegation of NYS Legislature: On February 6th, the Director met with members of the Western New York delegation of the State Senate and Assembly to express urgent concerns over reductions in State Aid, as proposed in the Governor's 2003-2004 Budget. B&ECPL Chairman Daniel T. Roach and Assistant Deputy Director Ami Patrick attended. Senators Dale Volker and William Stachowski and Assembly Members Robin Schimminger, Sam Hoyt, Brian Higgins, Richard Smith and Francine DelMonte were present. Paul Tokasz and Sandra Lee Wirth sent staff to the meeting. Legislators were cordial and generally supportive but offered no firm assurances regarding the level of restorations that might be expected this year.
25th Annual Tribute to Martin Luther King Draws Large and Enthusiastic Audience: On January 16th, WGRZ-TV news anchor Claudine Ewing served as mistress of ceremonies at a memorable evening of music, dance and readings commemorating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Director welcomed the audience of more than 200 to the Central Library's Mason O. Damon Auditorium. Program participants included Praise Dancers from St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church; Sandra Gilliam, Soloist; School 18's 3rd Grade Choir; Westminster Community School 68's Chorus and Suave, a Latin band. Extension Services Administrator Sharon Holley presented certificates and acknowledgments. Sandra Bush, Manager of North Jefferson Branch, served as chairperson of the event planning committee.
Contract Library Trustees Meet: On February 8th, Contract Library Trustees held their first Association of Contract Libraries Boards of Trustees (ACT) meeting of 2003 at Cheektowaga's Julia Boyer Reinstein Library. The Director was invited to speak on the implications of the USA PATRIOT Act in relation to government requests for borrower account information and FBI surveillance and investigations in libraries. CFO Ken Stone presented the impact of proposed New York State budget cuts as identified in Governor George Pataki's 2003-2004 budget proposal. A discussion on the importance of trustee advocacy followed. Subsequent to the meeting, sample advocacy letters and an updated list of State, County and Federal elected officials are being prepared for mailing to all contract libraries to assist them in their efforts to secure or restore necessary funding. In other business, the date and location of the annual Trustees' Workshop were set for Saturday, April 12th, at the Central Library.
Library Advocates Assemble at Clarence Public Library: On February 12th, Clarence Public Library Trustees Sean O'Mahony and Jane Sweet and Clarence Library Director Marie T. Robillard welcomed NYS Commissioner of Education Richard Mills, Chancellor Robert Bennett, State Librarian Janet Welch and a host of trustees, librarians, educators, advocates and other interested parties to a day of information exchange and advocacy training. The Director made introductory remarks at the 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. sessions. In the afternoon, B&ECPL Vice Chair Rebecca Mahoney took part in a general training session along with former B&ECPL and Elma Public Library trustee Mary Jo Ketchum and immediate past president of the New York Library Association Carolyn Giambra, who is District Instructional Specialist with the Williamsville School District. Trustee Judy Summer and administrators Sharon Holley, Ami Patrick and Peggy Skotnicki also represented the B&ECPL.
ALA Midwinter Conference: From January 24th through 27th, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was the site of the American Library Association's Midwinter Conference. Representing B&ECPL were Deputy Directors Ruth Collins and Shirley Whelan and Central Library Administrator Peggy Skotnicki. All had multiple committee assignments and vendor or service provider meetings. As a result of these, and informal discussions with their counterparts in libraries across the country, administrative staff returned with several strategies (technology and human resource-based) for service delivery in tough budget times.
WebFeat Installation in Progress: WebFeat continues to work with the B&ECPL team to plan, refine and implement the project. Testing of the base WebFeat system has begun. A committee of reference librarians and B&ECPL's web master will tailor the design and categorize the Library's databases. In addition, the committee will coordinate the implementation of several critical enhancements to the product, as announced at the first WebFeat user-group meeting at the ALA Mid-Winter Conference attended by administrators Collins, Whelan and Skotnicki.
NYLA Sets Legislative Day: On March 18th, Ami Patrick, Peggy Skotnicki, Sharon Holley and Kelly Shepherd will carry the B&ECPL message to NYS Senators and Assembly representatives concerning the impact of Governor George Pataki's proposed budget cuts and increased employer costs associated with the NYS employee retirement system. Joining colleagues from all types of libraries around the state, the B&ECPL delegation will urge restored funding for libraries, a "hold harmless" approach to population-based funding formulae, and Medicaid relief for local governments.
2003-2004 E-Rate Service Designation Forms Filed: Funding requests for Telecommunications and Internet Access Support, totaling just over $190,000, have been filed. These discounts, which are factored into the 2003 budget, support ongoing high-speed "T-1" connections among all 52 libraries, as well as the System's high speed Internet connection. An additional $112,567 in "Internal Connections" funding has been requested for data cabling and data transmission equipment. Funding for "Internal Connections" requests is subject to sufficient overall E-Rate fund availability.
New Citrix Public Access Model Ready for Testing: On February 4th, consultants from Western New York Computing (WNYCS) presented the new Citrix Public Access Model to members of B&ECPL's e-Branch team. They also demonstrated use of the new staff interface program designed to replace the current application that remotely logs patrons onto public workstations. The model is available for testing by e-Branch staff in the Training Lab until February 20th. During the testing period, WNYCS will be available to correct any problems identified by staff and will continue to refine the interface program. At the end of February, implementation plans will be discussed and a tentative target date for the first pilot test, scheduled to take place in the Children's Room and Popular Materials Department, will be determined.
Librarians on the Lecture Circuit: On January 30th, Robert Alessi of Central's Special Collections/Music Department addressed an adult education class at Alden High School on Mark Twain's life in Buffalo and the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn manuscript. Included in the lecture were clips from the Mark Twain documentary by Ken Burns and the B&ECPL video of opening celebrations for the Mark Twain Room. On January 17th, Urban Services librarian Gwen Collier participated in "A Tribute to a King" at Buffalo Public School #18. A media presentation of "The Life of Dr. King" produced by former Urban Services staff was presented to a capacity crowd of 367 students, staff and parents.
Development of Spanish Catalog Begins: Information Systems Coordinator Peggy Brent of Network Support and Webmaster Brian Fending have begun development of a Spanish language version of the DRA Web2 catalog. They will meet soon with administrative staff to review the basic catalog and required customizations.
Director Speaks on Patron Privacy: On February 13th, the Director was one of three speakers at the School of Informatics AT&T Lecture Series in a program entitled: "Privacy and Regulation in the Digital Millennium." Sonia Arrison, Director of the Center for Technology Studies at the Pacific Research Institute, was the keynote speaker with Shubha Gosh of UB's Law School and the Director reacting to her remarks and answering audience questions on such diverse topics as electronic eavesdropping and wiretapping to the confidentiality of library records. Approximately 80 students, academics and librarians attended the event.
Miscellaneous Meetings and Appearances: On February 12th, Trustee John Long, Deputy Director Ruth A. Collins, former Director Diane J. Chrisman and the Director represented the B&ECPL at County Executive Joel A. Giambra's annual "State of the County" address. On January 28th, the Director met to discuss the possibility of collaborative projects with Doctors Peggy Brooks-Bertram and Barbara Nevergold of the "Uncrowned Queens" (African American Women Community Builders of Western New York) Project and on January 29th with Tracy Diina, Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Buffalo and Erie County, Inc. The Director has been invited to serve on the Erie Community College President's Advisory Council, the Advisory Council of Literacy Volunteers and is scheduled to appear on the Adelphia TV broadcast of "Aviva" on the 22nd and 24th of February.
Agenda Item G - Report of the Foundation Director. Chairman Roach acknowledged W. Lawrence Buck, a Trustee of the Library Foundation, who was in attendance. Ms. Vedder thanked the trustees and library administration for a $20,000 portion of the Verizon grant for tutor.com. These funds will cover Live Homework Help services through the first half of the year. Topics covered in Ms. Vedder's written report included Live Homework Help, the John R. Oishei Foundation, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn CD-ROM, Black History Month, the Annual Meeting of the Library Foundation and B&ECPL funding support.
Agenda Item H - Public Comment. Valerie Niederhoffer of Buffalo is happy with library services, and she intends to contact her legislators to ask for increased library funding. She suggested library patrons be asked to advocate on behalf of libraries. She would like the next community meeting being planned for South Buffalo to be widely publicized.
Elizabeth Berry of Buffalo stated her opposition to the plan of building a new library in South Buffalo. She suggested that a survey be distributed to the South Buffalo community at large to obtain a wider range of opinions from those residents.
Agenda Item I - Unfinished Business. No unfinished business.
Agenda Item J - New Business.
Agenda Item J.1 - Executing Contract for Central Library Renovation. Deputy Director Stone said this resolution would authorize the Board Chair to execute a contract with Habiterra and carry that project forward. It will also commit the balance of the Foundation's $1 million toward project costs. Erie County has committed $1 million for asbestos abatement in its capital project fund and $1 million for the first phase of construction. County funds along with private funds will allow B&ECPL to jump start pre-construction work as early as this spring. Main construction work should begin in the fall. On motion by Ms. Summer, seconded by Ms. Horton, the following was approved unanimously:
RESOLUTION #2003-09
WHEREAS, on July 18, 2002, the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library adopted Resolution 2002-46 accepting the Central Library Space Design Study Report and authorized B&ECPL Administration to take the steps required to advance the renovation, and
WHEREAS, the proposed renovation has received a favorable response from the community and interested officials, andWHEREAS, on August 15, 2002, the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library adopted Resolution 2002-51 authorizing the use of the Library's private trust funds for these activities. The proposed renovation has received a favorable response from the community and interested officials, and
WHEREAS, on November 21, 2002, the Library Board adopted Resolution 2002-69 approving the selection of Habiterra for Central Library Renovation project design, construction document creation, and necessary project implementation services and further approved establishing a project expenditure budget in an amount of $400,000 for Habiterra's services on this project, with the source of revenue being the Library's private funds held in trust by the Erie County Comptroller's Office, and
WHEREAS, the plan presented to Erie County in the Library's 2003 capital budget request, approved in Resolution 2002-21 on April 18, 2002, included a commitment to raise additional private funds to support the project, and
WHEREAS, an additional $600,000 from the Library's existing private funds balance is available to commit towards this project, increasing the total privately funded portion to $1,000,000; and
WHEREAS, the Erie County 2003 Adopted Budget includes $1,000,000 to begin construction and $1,000,000 for related asbestos abatement, and the Library Foundation of Buffalo and Erie County, Inc. has been asked to help secure necessary private funds to further support this project, and
WHEREAS, the currently available County and Library private commitment would allow construction of the first phases to begin in 2003, and the Library's early commitment of its private funds would underscore the importance of this project as well as support efforts to secure additional grant and private funding; and
WHEREAS, the Erie County Department of Public Works, representing the building owner, in cooperation with library staff, has negotiated a contract to provide these services, now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library authorize the Board Chair to execute a contract with Habiterra for Central Library Renovation project design, construction document creation, and necessary project implementation services, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library approves allocating an additional $600,000 from the Library's existing private funds balance towards this project, increasing the total privately funded portion to date to $1,000,000, with the source of revenue being the Library's private funds held in trust by the Erie County Comptroller's Office.
Agenda Item J.2 - Amend Rules of Conduct. Director Mahaney explained the proposed change to the B&ECPL's Rules of Conduct and entertained a motion to amend the Rules. On motion by Ms. Horton, seconded by Ms. Panty, Resolution 2003-10 was approved unanimously. (New language is underscored.)
Rules of Conduct
The Buffalo & Erie County Public Library (B&ECPL) serves as a center for information, education and entertainment. Under Article 5, Section 262 of New York State Education Law, the Board of Trustees of the B&ECPL has adopted the following rules to ensure an atmosphere conducive to appropriate use of the services and facilities of the Central Library and its branches. Library users are required to comply with these Rules and Regulations.
The following conduct is prohibited:
1. Engaging in disorderly conduct, fighting or challenging to fight, or using language that offends others;
2. Disturbing other patrons or staff (e.g., disruptive behavior such as any loud, unreasonable and/or bothersome noises created by persons or devices; interfering with staff in the performance of their duties; staring at another person; following another person around the premises);
3. Carrying weapons of any kind;
4. Possessing, distributing or consuming alcohol or illegal drugs or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
5. Engaging in sexual misconduct (e.g., exposure, inappropriate touching, or sexual harassment of other patrons or staff);
6. Damaging, destroying, or stealing any library or personal property;
7. Bringing animals or pets into the library except those required to assist persons with disabilities or those involved in library programs;
8. Selling and/or soliciting;
9. Distributing or posting materials/literature that have not been approved by the Library;
10. Smoking or using tobacco products, and
11. Eating or drinking, except in designated areas.
Under Article 65, Section 3205 of New York State Education Law, "each minor from six to sixteen years or age shall attend upon full time instruction." Accordingly, access to the library during regular school hours (without special permit or previous arrangement with school officials) is denied for minors between the ages of six and sixteen. No children under six years of age may be left unattended in any library at any time. Library staff will not be responsible for children who have been left without adult supervision. Adult patrons who are not engaged in library activities that require materials from the children's area shall be asked to relocate to other areas of the library. The staff reserves the right to seek the intervention of appropriate law enforcement or social services agencies, as required by individual circumstances.Persons whose actions violate these rules will be advised of their infraction(s). Failure to comply with the Library's established rules and regulations or violations of law may result in immediate suspension of library privileges and, where necessary, civil liability and/or criminal prosecution.
There being no further business, on motion by Ms. Mahoney and seconded by Ms. Horton, the meeting was adjourned at 4:57 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Annette A. Juncewicz
Secretary