MEETING MINUTESMINUTES The regular monthly meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library was held on Thursday, December 16, 2004, in the Central Meeting Room pursuant to due notice to trustees. The following members were present:
Excused:
Chair Rebecca L. Pordum called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. in the Central Meeting Room. Agenda Item B – Approval / Change to the Agenda. The Chair entertained a motion to amend the agenda. On motion by Dr. Long and a second by Ms. Panty, Agenda Item E.2.b. will be presented under New Business as Agenda Item K.3. Agenda Item C – Minutes of the November 18, 2004 meeting. On motion by Ms. Horton, seconded by Ms. Panty, the Minutes were approved as mailed. Agenda Item D – Report of the Chair. Ms. Pordum stated the past few months have been the most difficult and challenging that this Board has ever had to face. The Library's budget was cut by $4 million compared to the B&ECPL request. On behalf of the Board, she thanked everyone who helped the Library go from “red” to “green.” The Administrative Team worked well into the night for several weeks to save the Library System from disaster. There were no complaints from patrons about service deficiencies during this difficult time; staff operated professionally. Now the Library must work within its allocated budget to provide the best services possible. Difficult decisions lie ahead. Choices must be made that will not make everyone happy. However, compared to the total devastation that was threatened, this budget should be seen as half-full rather than half-empty, and everyone can be grateful for what was saved. Ms. Pordum thanked all those who helped to preserve library service. An outstanding advocacy effort showed elected officials how much support the Library System has. She singled out two groups who did a great deal of work on behalf of Erie County residents. ElizaBeth Berry of Save Our Libraries Coalition and Susan Stievater of Citizens to Save the Libraries were asked to come forward. The Chair presented the two representatives with copies of the following resolution. Resolution 2004-52
Trustee Buck arrived at approximately 4:10 p.m. Agenda Item E – Committee Reports. Agenda Item E.1 – Executive Committee. Trustee Phyllis Horton reported the Committee met on November 8 th to approve the meeting agenda and discuss resolutions being presented today. The 2005 budget was also discussed. Agenda Item E.2 – Budget and Finance Committee. Agenda Item E.2.a – Contract Library Transfers. Deputy Director Kenneth Stone informed trustees that Resolution 2004-48 involved routine transfers within the budget of the Amherst Public Library. On motion by Ms. Juncewicz, seconded by Ms. Horton, the resolution was approved unanimously. RESOLUTION 2004-48
Agenda Item F – Report of the Director. Director Michael Mahaney referred to Resolution 2004-52 and requested a motion for approval. Ms. Summer moved and Ms. Horton made the second; approval was unanimous. On behalf of the Administration, the Director thanked trustees, staff and Friends groups for their advocacy efforts. The Administrative Team is very grateful. On Saturday, December 11 th , the administrators met with trustees and directors from contracting libraries to provide an indication of what budget reductions will be needed in 2005 and a better understanding of the magnitude of the problem. This session was held to offer guidelines and solutions so that everyone could relate to System level budget problems and help devise strategies to deal with reductions at the local level. The following was submitted by the Director and transmitted to Board members prior to the meeting. County Legislators Substitute GREEN Alternative for Devastating RED Budget: Shortly before midnight on December 8 th , the Erie County Legislature adopted a 2005 spending plan, based on anticipated revenues from a one-cent increase in the County sales tax. The Library has been advised unofficially that the County Executive 's GREEN Budget has replaced the infamous RED Budget, which would have forced the closing of every public library in Erie County . We understand that this new budget allows the Library System to continue operating in 2005, but at a reduced level. As this report is being written, no one at the B&ECPL has seen a copy of the actual budget, but administrative staff continue to develop cost and service reduction scenarios based on numbers the County Budget Office generated in November. The best estimate of projected expenditure cuts exceeds $4 million. Every effort is being made to distribute reductions as equitably as possible across the System. Throughout this crisis, staff at every location and job title has performed with spirit and professionalism, delivering the highest levels of customer service under threatening circumstances. Advocacy Confirms Public Support and Appreciation for Libraries: Advocacy efforts in support of Erie County's public libraries played a significant role in convincing legislators to overhaul the potentially catastrophic RED Budget and replace it with something that includes more reasonable financial support for library services. Sign-wielding citizens at four public hearings and at various rallies, including one at the entrance of the Central Library where B&ECPL Chair Rebecca Pordum and the Director spoke to reinforce the community's demand for adequate library funding, conveyed an unwavering message of library support. With the encouragement of Amherst Public Library Director Mary Bobinski , Citizens to Save the Libraries (CSL), a group that fought for library funding restoration in 1977, again assumed a leadership position. CSL representatives Bee Elye and Susan Stievater deserve our collective thanks for their coordinative roles and personal involvement. Several organizations with strong library allegiance (Librarians Association, Staff Association, the Association of Contract Library Trustees, the Library Foundation) contributed to an advocacy fund that underwrote the purchase of window decals, stickers and buttons proclaiming: “Libraries Rock, Don't Lock” and “I ? My Library and I Vote.” The “Libraries Change Lives…Tell Us Your Story” campaign solicited more than 2,000 heartfelt testimonials from individuals on how important library services are to them and their families. Erie County residents responded in overwhelming numbers, but the Library also received positive feedback from people living in other Western New York counties as well as many cities across New York State . Submissions came from as far away as Arizona , California , Texas , Wisconsin , North Carolina , Maryland , New Jersey , Ohio , Vermont , Rhode Island , Kansas and Ontario , Canada . A sampling of excerpts were sent to Erie County Legislators and the local media and have been posted on the B&ECPL website. Through the generous production assistance of Librarian Kathy Smith and her husband, public service announcements for television were created and distributed to local stations. For eight days, staff volunteers manned an advocacy table at the Central Library, which generated 1,200 letters to the Library's local and State representatives. To date, more than 41,000 patrons have signed their names to the Citizens to Save the Libraries sheets in support of the B&ECPL. New Automation System Debuts: On November 9th , after more than a year of planning, testing, training and extensive preparation, the B&ECPL migrated from the aging DRA automation system to the new Unicorn software system from Sirsi Corporation. Although there were some minor problems and glitches, there was nothing the implementation team (CIO Shirley Whelan , Support Services Manager Ann Kling and Catalog Department Manager Dawn Peters ? with the help of Sirsi's “Sure Start” Consultant Kim Grandquist Battles) could not handle. Help Desk phones in the Catalog Department were staffed by the Sirsi training team ( Peggy Errington, Maureen McLaughlin, Jennifer Trigilio, Mary Ann Ozimek, Jennifer Childs, Liz Weig and Jennifer Shine) who found themselves extremely busy for the first few days of the transition. Evening and weekend telephone support remained in place through November 20 th . Staff must be commended for the diligence and positive attitude demonstrated throughout the migration process. Some issues and loose ends still require resolution, including assorted Acquisition functions, Business Office invoicing and Collection Agency reports, but overall the migration went smoothly with minimal public service impact. The implementation team continues to meet on a weekly basis via conference call with Sirsi Project Manager Jane Ervin and new Client Care coordinator Amy Morgenthaler . Staff Association Exchanges Season's Greetings: The Staff Association conducted its annual holiday meeting on Wednesday, December 1st, at the Central Library. Staff and retirees from the Library System gathered to catch up, commiserate on budget bedlam and enjoy the camaraderie of new and former friends. Underwritten by the Administrative Team, The Mansion provided a breakfast buffet, including bagels, muffins, sweet rolls, breakfast pizza and fruit filled pancakes, complemented by homemade baked goods and other treats prepared by staff. An auction of holiday gift items donated by staff raised more than $500 for the Food Bank. The Director acknowledged Staff Association officers for the success of the event and all Library employees for their gift of exemplary service to the community, especially during these trying times. 20-Year Volunteer Honored: On November 1 st , a thank-you party was held at the Crane Branch Library to honor 20-year volunteer Diane Melillo . Extension Services Administrator Sharon Holley presented her with a plaque on behalf of staff and patrons. Guests included B&ECPL Trustee Phyllis Horton and several Extension Services Department retirees. Legislator DeBenedetti Funds Children's Program : The Niagara Branch Library was fortunate to host Reynold Scott from Young Audiences in a program sponsored by Erie County Legislator Al DeBenedetti . Students and parents attended Scott's presentation on unusual musical instruments, and all enjoyed the opportunity to try the instruments and contemplate future music lessons or careers. Media Representatives Demonstrate Need for Library: Librarians Joyce Gianni and Pat Monahan (both of Humanities and Social Sciences) answered a difficult question for Buffalo News columnist and media critic Jeff Simon who needed the source of a quote for his review of the film Finding Neverland. In his November 30 th column, Simon's praise for the Library and its staff was exemplary and timely: “Unless you have ever asked them a question, you have no idea how extraordinarily helpful and pleasant they can be while they come up with an answer.” Information, supplied by Librarian Jewel De La Rosa (Humanities and Social Sciences), appeared in an article published in the December 2004 issue of Martha Stewart Living. “Waxing Nostalgic about Festive Candles” by Jill Gerston mentions the Gurley Novelty Company of Buffalo and its production of the “most desirable figural candles.” The Company produced “rotund red Santas and waving snowmen,” which are now collectible. During Children's Book Week, Beverly Federspiel , Manager of the Children's Room, was quoted in the Metro Community News on the importance of reading. Self-Charge Machines Presented to Central Library Team: The i-Circ and Vernon Office Supply self-charge machines have been tested with the new Sirsi Unicorn automation system at the Central Library. Patrons and staff responded well to both, but Network Support believes the i-Circ equipment provides better service and appears more stable. Staff might explore the test of the FlashScan self-charge unit while developing plans for bidding and purchasing self-charge equipment in time for the completion of Phase 1-A of the Central Library Renovation and the re-opening of a new Borrower Services area. Literally Speaking Concludes 2004 Series: The last program of the year took place on November 16 th . Central librarian Cynthia Van Ness led the discussion of Limbo: Blue-Collar Roots, White-Collar Dreams by Alfred Lubrano . This successful lunchtime series has proven very popular. Patrons and staff reviewers look forward to more midday discussions next year. Miscellaneous Meetings and Appearances: On November 17 th , the Director, COO Collins and CFO Stone met with Joseph J. Mattie of the New York State Division of Library Development to discuss the technical, legal and financial ramifications if the B&ECPL had been forced to curtail public service in 2005. State Aid, certification and charters are at risk if the Library is unable to deliver service and fails to meet State Minimum Standards. On November 30 th , reporter Birger Vanwesenbeeck from the Belgian newspaper De Tijd (The Times) interviewed the Director regarding the County budget crisis and its impact on the public library. Throughout the past several weeks, the Director has been interviewed by various print and broadcast media, including WBEN-AM, WNED-FM, WBFO-FM, The Buffalo News, Business First, Buffalo Alt Press, The ECC Student Voice , WKBW-TV, WIVB-TV, WGRZ-TV and WNYO-TV. On December 5 th , the 30-minute public affairs program, Buffalo Matters , broadcast on WUTV and WNYO, was devoted exclusively to the Library and the County budget crisis. On December 3 rd , Erie County 's fiscal plight and its impact on libraries was also the subject of Public Radio International's To the Point. The Director was one of a panel interviewed on this live broadcast, which airs in many radio markets throughout the United States and Canada . Agenda Item G – Nominating Committee Election. Ms. Pordum reminded trustees the B&ECPL Bylaws stipulate that a Nominating Committee be selected at the December meeting. The Committee shall consist of five members, two of whom shall be appointed by the Chair and three of whom shall be elected by the Board from its members. Ms. Horton nominated Ms. Juncewicz, Ms. Panty and Mr. Roach. Ms. Pordum selected Mr. Gist and Ms. Summer as her appointments. There being no further nominations, the slate was approved as presented upon motion by Ms. Panty, seconded by Dr. Raoof. Ms. Pordum asked Mr. Roach to serve as Chair. Election of officers will occur in January. Agenda Item H – Report of the Foundation Director. Executive Director Anne Leary was not in attendance at the meeting. Agenda Item I – Public Comment. John Klukowski of 189 Cazenovia Street , Buffalo , stated the battle to save libraries is not over. The majority of speakers at the Legislative hearings spoke in favor of libraries, and many speakers were willing to pay the extra sales tax to retain library services. Mr. Klukowski opposes library consolidation. ElizaBeth Berry of Save Our Libraries (SOL) thanked trustees for the group's recognition. SOL would like all 52 libraries to remain open and told Legislators this at hearings. She feels library consolidation is the wrong way to go. Jeffrey Gauthier of 189 Cazenovia Street , Buffalo , stated students expressed a need for neighborhood libraries at the Legislative hearings so children will have a place to learn and visit. Joan Van de Water of 352 Tremont, Kenmore , said the County budget crisis is a wake-up call to the Board and a warning to be prepared for the “next times.” The B&ECPL's history includes a legacy of foresight and enterprise versus thinking like a bureaucracy. She believes that Board members who feel they cannot invest the time or concern necessary should resign. Alternate revenue streams must be developed so the B&ECPL is not as dependent on County funds. The Library must be inventive. Carol May of 203 Lockwood, Buffalo , stated library supporters stood up to the powers that be during the budget crunch and must continue to fight against elimination and consolidation of libraries. Valerie Niederhoffer of Buffalo said saving libraries is very important. The libraries in the City of Buffalo need to remain vital. People love neighborhood libraries, and city residents really need them. She acknowledged funding has become a serious problem. ElizaBeth Berry reported soldiers in Iraq need books. She asked the Library Board for assistance in collecting new or nearly new books for soldiers. Agenda Item J - Unfinished Business. Trustee Roach expressed appreciation to Chair Pordum for her outstanding leadership role during the past several weeks and thanked her for a job well done. Trustee Wisbaum said Ms. Pordum articulated the issues very well and provided a public presence. He feels the community is very much in her debt. Agenda Item K - New Business. Agenda Item K.1 – State Aid for Public Library Construction. This resolution would authorize staff to prepare a State aid application for approximately $40,000 to assist with the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library construction project. Mr. Gist moved for approval and was seconded by Ms. Panty. Approval was unanimous. RESOLUTION 2004 - 50
Agenda Item K.2 – Authorize Chair to Execute 2004 Contract Extensions with Contracting Libraries. This resolution authorizes the Chair to execute contract extensions of the 2004 contracts into 2005 until the on-going budget situation has a final resolution. The State budget for 2005-2006 may include a cut in State library aid. Contract extensions will allow libraries to continue to provide service and meet payrolls in January. Contracts for 2005 will be finalized when the 2005 budget situation is resolved, or by September 30 th , whichever is earlier. Contract extensions will be based upon the 2005 adopted budget. Adjustments can be made in the final quarterly payment. The resolution was moved by Ms. Juncewicz, seconded by Ms. Horton and approved unanimously. RESOLUTION 2004-51
Agenda Item K.3 – Adoption of 2005 Budget. Deputy Director Kenneth Stone said preparing the 2005 budget was one of the most difficult tasks in B&ECPL's history and certainly the most challenging budget since 1982. The proposed operating budget is $26,071,143, a reduction of $3.1 million from the request. The County share is $21,671,833, a $3.5 million reduction from the request. The actual reduction in expenditures will total $4.2 million due to lower anticipated revenues because of fewer open hours and increases in some areas of the budget (e.g., health insurance) beyond what was estimated. The goal has been to produce a balanced budget with three guiding principles: (1) preserve all libraries' charters, (2) continue to meet State standards for minimum open hours, and (3) avoid closing libraries. The proposed budget meets all three criteria and attempts to minimize the impact on employees while still providing as many services as possible to users. However, it is not possible to keep all libraries open the same number of hours as in 2004. There will be reductions in hours of service throughout the System. The cuts are as equitable as possible, but equitable does not mean equal. A number of smaller libraries that have only part-time staff are not able to realize much of a cost saving without dropping below State standards, which would jeopardize their charters. Reductions were made in such a way that no library would be forced to close completely. Cutbacks include: 1. Reduction in Sunday service hours. Only Central, Audubon and Orchard Park will offer County-funded Sunday service. Sunday hours at Central and Orchard Park will help meet the State minimum for open hours. 2. Work hour and/or operating expense reductions at ten libraries. 3. Reduction in hours of service for libraries with fewer than two full time outlets to New York State minimum standards. This affects nine libraries.
Overall, a total of 83.9 full-time equivalent positions will not be funded. Library administration continues to work to prevent valued employees from being laid off or bumped. Within the Buffalo system, Central and Extension Services will lay off 24 individuals, 13 are being downgraded and four will be bumped to lower job grades. Some staff members have chosen to retire, and other positions will remain vacant. Every employee impacted will be notified personally. The Library's staff is its most important resource, and it is imperative that everything be done to make this as painless as possible. Mr. Stone believes the budget sends a message that the B&ECPL needs to be proactive and plan for the future. Erie County received international news coverage for its fiscal problems. It is important to let State officials know that some inherent problems, such as Medicaid, need to be corrected so the County can avoid being in this situation again next year. Any additional funding cuts will make it very difficult to avoid closing libraries. Mr. Stone said he hoped everyone would work together to do the best that can be done to provide quality public service with available resources. Ms. Panty asked if laid off employees could be called back at some time. Mr. Stone said individuals are placed on preferred lists, which are valid up to four years for librarians and white-collar employees and two years for blue-collar employees. Mr. Gist inquired whether the Library had any indication how many employees might be planning to retire in the near future. Mr. Stone replied that seven individuals at Central retired in the past month and a few others are still considering that option. Dr. Long, Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, commented that Ms. Pordum gave a tremendous presentation at the County budget hearing that he attended. He also complimented the Director and Mr. Stone for doing their very best under trying circumstances. In 2005, he believes the Board needs to take a good look at the entire System to determine whether it is the way it should be, compared to 15-20 years ago. The coming year will be a great challenge for trustees as budget problems likely will persist. Some tough decisions need to be made in the best interests of this System and of Erie County . Ms. Panty thanked Mr. Stone and Mr. Mahaney for all the work they did during the budget crisis. They took the task to heart, committed countless hours of work on numerous budget revisions and did the very best work they could. On motion by Ms. Horton and a second by Mr. Buck, the budget was unanimously approved as presented. Resolution 2004-49
There being no further business, on motion by Ms. Summer, seconded by Ms. Panty, the meeting was adjourned at 5:04 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sharon A. Thomas |
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