11/05/2009
LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF CLEARWATER
November 5, 2009
Present: Jan Regulski Chair
Judith Blanton Vice-Chair
Elizabeth M. O’Brien Board Member
Rosalie G. Murray Board Member
Bernard Ward Board Member
Mary Van Weezel Board Member
Absent: Terrell Kirk, Jr. Board Member
Also Present: Barbara Pickell Library Director
Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter
The Chair called the meeting to order at 10:15 a.m. at the Main Library.
To provide continuity for research, items are in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
Library Director Barbara Pickell read a note from staff in appreciation of the Library
Board.
2 – Approval of Minutes
– August 6, 2009
Member Ward moved to approve the minutes of the August 6, 2009, Library Board
meeting, as submitted in written summation to each board member. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
3 – Library Director’s Reports
3.1. East side library update
Library Director Barbara Pickell said the City anticipates it will need to reduce next year’s
budget by an additional $4 million. Combining East and Countryside branches at Woodgate
would save only $179,000; many residents oppose that plan. The Council has requested
information regarding alternatives that would not require additional staff. A consultant has not
been hired. She expressed concern if East closed, staff at the remaining libraries would be
unable to handle the increase in patrons. Although the use of space at East and Countryside is
inefficient, the buildings are energy efficient; the Main Library is the City’s fifth largest energy
user. Ms. Pickell said while unused retail space would work well for a library, most property
owners want to lease, rather than sell those properties.
In response to questions and suggestions, Ms. Pickell said two-thirds of the City’s
population live in east Clearwater. An elevator would be required if a second floor was built on
the East branch. It is unlikely that federal funds would be available for meeting ADA (Americans
with Disabilities Act) requirements. Penny for Pinellas funds can be used only for construction,
not for operational costs. Insufficient parking is a problem at Countryside. East has an informal
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parking agreement with the school/church next door.
It was stated that accessing East in the morning and afternoon is difficult due to
significant school traffic. It was felt that closing East would leave a substantial portion of the
City without library services. Concern was expressed that uncertainty about the future is difficult
for library staff. It was noted that East and Countryside are well loved. Concerns were
expressed that there is some Council support to reduce the number of City libraries and
perhaps, to sell the valuable East property. It was suggested that renovating East would not be
a viable, long-term solution. It was felt that Woodgate was chosen because the City owns the
site; many nearby residents do not live in the City. It was recommended that board members
contact each Councilmember and attend City Council meetings to support City libraries.
3.2. Library hours update
Use of East and Countryside meeting rooms has decreased now that the libraries close
at 7:00 p.m. Ms. Pickell said the new hours seem to meet most public needs as library use has
increased by 1% since hours were reduced. The biggest complaint is from patrons who prefer
an opening time earlier than 10:00 a.m.
3.3. Café update
Ms. Pickell said four café vendors were unable to generate sufficient business to earn a
profit. She reviewed discussions with Calvin Hunsinger School whereby students would work at
the café and a culinary arts program would prepare prepackaged food. This partnership would
eliminate the need for the café to earn a profit. She hoped the program could begin January 1,
2010. The café would be open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A teacher would be present at all
times. The program would provide students with job skills and library tools to complete school
work when they are away from the counter. With parental support, the program could continue
in the summer. The school will provide insurance for the students. Risk Management is
reviewing the program. A contract needs to be created and approved by City Council.
Support was expressed for the program.
4 – Unfinished Business
5 – New Business
5.1. Advocacy & State funding
Ms. Pickell said the Florida Library Association encourages library people to contact
legislators three times a year to remind them of the value of libraries. City Council and Pinellas
County Commissioner support also is essential. The Countywide Interlocal agreement is up for
renewal in 2013. Library advocates are encouraged to thank elected officials for their support of
libraries and to say positive things about the library. It was suggested that homeowner
associations and condominium building managers be approached to support libraries.
6 – Reports
6.1. Foundation
Library 2009-11-05 2
~-."
. 6 - Reports
6.1. Foundation
The Library Foundation held a gala in conjunction with Jazz Holiday.
6.2. Friends of the Library
The fall book sale was successful, with almost $3,000 raised.
7 - Board Comments
Member Blanton reviewed activities planned for the November 20, 2009, library benefit,
"Evening with the Author," featuring Andrew Hughes.
Member Murrav and Chair ReQulski encouraged members to lobby the City Council on
behalf of the Library.
Chair ReQulski requested clarification of attendance requirements now that the board
meets four times a year. She said it is important for members to attend board meetings. She
said the Tampa Bay Library Consortium is celebrating its 30th anniversary.
8 - Adjourn
.
The meeting adjourned at 11 :49 a.m.
Next meeting will be on February 4,2010 at 10:15 a.m.
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Library 2009-11-05
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