HomeMy WebLinkAboutLibrary Trustees 09/09/2000MANSFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING - SEPTEMBER 9, 2000
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Attendance: Nancy Breef-Pilz; Chris Cormier Hayes; Leonard Epstein; and Joseph
Flynn. John Walgreen was absent. Janet Campbell was present as Acting Director.
Joe convened the meeting at 8:10 a.m. in the Certuse Room of the Mansfield Public
Library.
Secretary's report. The minutes of the June meeting were reviewed and approved
subject to a minor correction. Minutes of the May meeting were taken by John and unavailable
for review.
Treasurer's report. Chris presented the Treasurer's Report which was approved.
Chris reported that Michael Bellody has left Merrill Lynch and is now with Mellon
Advisor Services. He has requested a meeting with the board to discuss moving our account to
Mellon. Our Merrill Lynch account is now being managed by Debra Stotler who has also
requested a meeting, seeking to retain the account. Chris reported that initial experience with
Ms. Stotler has been favorable, including a funds transfer which was handled with a check
instead of a wire transfer which avoided wire transfer fees In light of more pressing business the
board decided to postpone any action at this time and to eventually schedule meetings with both
account representatives prior to making a decision.
Librarian's report. Janet highlighted the June -August report.
Computer systems. On August 31 the library went on line with the new stand alone
computer system. The new Sirsi system became operational on September 1. There have been
numerous problems in the transition including the computer assigning 1 day loan periods to the
initial 1200 check outs. Several cataloging problems were noted. During the initial transition
period Janet was at the library from 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. every day. Janet reported that the
systems had stabilized somewhat after the first week and that as of Friday, September 8,
operations were a little smoother.
McNaughton dilemma. The library has for some time rented additional copies of many
new and popular books to fill hold requests from Mansfield residents. The new Sirsi system will
not allow for prioritization of Mansfield requests resulting in rented copies being sent to other
libraries to fill holds strictly in chronological order. The board discussed various options and
concluded that, for now, McNaughton (rented) volumes will be shelved so as to be available for
Mansfield residents. Joe will also write to SAILS to express board's dissatisfaction with the
system and to urge a programming change which will accommodate prioritization for local
residents.
( Public access terminals. The new OPAC (public access system) commenced service on
Monday, September 4. The operational interface is significantly different and Janet reported
that Edward O'Buchon spent hours last week updating terminals to provide for internet access,
which is now accomplished through the public access terminals. (O'Buchon is a private
consultant, paid from MEG funds. He is in charge of the Attleboro Library's computer system.)
New computers. Janet reported that a new computer is needed for the Children's room to
replace one that is so old that it will not handle the OPAC functions. She also reported that the
Director's computer is similarly outdated, The board authorized Janet to obtain pricing and
purchase two new computer systems with 23" screens as quickly as possible.
OLD BUSINESS
ADA workstations. Joe reported that two ADA workstations will be delivered in
November. 23" computer monitors will be needed to replace the existing small screens now in
use.
usage.
Museum passes. The Garden in the Woods pass has not been renewed because of poor
Electric bill. Janet reported that the problem has been resolved and.a credit issued.
Programs. One program was approved. On September 21 Stephen Farrar will present
"From the Top of North America - Climbing Mt. McKinley." (Cost $50.00,)
Gifts. Over $700 has been received as gifts in lieu of flowers after the death of William
Clafly, One donation was for $250. Janet has written to Mrs. Claffy asking about any special
wishes she may have for the funds.
NEW BUSINESS
Staffir g - Director., search committee. Leslie Pasch has resigned to accept the
directorship of the Holliston Library. In late July Leslie and Janet met with the trustees at which
time Janet agreed to become Acting Director while a search is conducted to replace Lesfle. Janet
commenced her duties on July 28, 2000. In addition to her extant compensation ($41,817) she
will receive a stipend of $300 per week.
The board discussed recruiting efforts and the present salary schedule, Nancy
recommended contacting Board of Library Commissioners. A search committee will consist of
the trustees, Janet Campbell, Mary Tynan, a representative from the Friends, and John
D'Agostino. Chris and Nancy will discuss recruiting at the Friends meeting on September 19.
Technical services. Janet recommended establishing a budget for technical updating.
Leslie was never able to get to many of the updates which should have been done more
routinely.
New personnel. New staff appointments were also noted including:
Sandy Kessler Library Tech
Diane Mainones Library Tech
Kristin Riendeau Technical Services Page
Karen Moore, former Technical Services Page, has left. Janet is also recruiting for a
substitute Library Tech ($6.53/hr.) and a Youth Department Tech. ($9.33/hr.)
Barbara Sheffield. The board reviewed a memo from Barbara Sheffield describing her
contention that she should be at step 9 instead of step 8 on the salary schedule. Janet stated that
she agreed with Barbara's analysis and noted that in the difficult work environment caused by
Leslie's resignation, the addition of new staff, and the computer transitions, Barbara worked 21
extra hours last week training new people and generally undertaking a great deal more
responsibility. The board authorized raising Barbara to step 9 retroactive to July 1, providing
that will settle all of her salary issues. Alternatively Barbara will be invited to attend the
October meeting to discuss the issue further.
Next meeting,, October 14, 2000.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:20 a.m.
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