Stowe Free Library

Minutes of Trustees Meeting January 4, 2008

The meeting came to order at 8:45 with Dick, Stephanie, Frits, Phyllis, Louise Thompson (FSFL) and Nancy present. The lack of heat in the Library for the second day in a row precipitated conversation about who is responsible for getting service and repairs, town or Library Director. Enigmatically, although this is a town building, pump repairs will come out of our budget. The minutes of Dec. 7 were accepted with the amendment that, regarding the elimination of fines on July 1, suspension of Library privileges shall be for people with pre-existing fines over $5. Staff will figure out a process for suspension.

Friends of Stowe Free Library: Louise said FSFL will do the book-keeping for the Adopt An Author program, allocating $20 for each book. That is an average price, and if any funds are left over they will benefit the FSFL.

Officers Liability Insurance: Helen is looking into whether it is necessary, and Dick and S. Will also make some queries.

FSFL gave $400 to the Library: $250 for new paperbacks of classics

$100 for MP3 players

Value of $50 for 5 tote bags for patrons to use in Library

International Guest Workers Reception recap: 70 kids came, many at 6:00. Stowe Mt. Resort workers did not get the message; next year we should put posters in the workers dorms at the Lodges. Phyllis sent thank-you notes to those who donated food, etc.

Policy Reviews: postponed to February meeting. S. Will send out copies of existing and proposed policies before the meeting.

Long Range Plan: S. Will update the ‘03 Service Response Summary for next meeting. Dick asked if we should have a strategy for "picking our shots" about Library needs. We are considering expanding Library hours on Tuesday and Thursday thrugh the use of volunteer support as of June, ‘08.

Directors Report: The web site is almost done and S. Gave a preview of its content.

The idea of having coffee available in the periodical room has been dropped.

Fees change: S. Feels that children should be free, but every one who uses the Library should have a card. This more accurately tracks circulation and use. Adults can of course come and pick up books for their children, but will be encouraged to pay $10 for their own card if they too are selecting books. Children under 18 are free.

S. thanked us for our comments on her review, and Frits and Louise complimented S. on her "can do" attitude. S. Asked at what level of expenditure she should first consult with the Board?

Statistics show increased circulation over Dec. 06, and fewer new patrons due to the smaller number of International workers this year.

New Business: Dick has talked with George Fearons about the use of their $10,000 bequest and feels that supporting our Face to Face program is appropriate.

With regards to Marion Kellogg's letter in the SR about charging neighboring towns for Library use, it was decided to make no response unless there is more public reaction.

The next meeting will be February 1 at 8:30 a.m. The meeting was adjourned at 10.

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Stead, Secretary