Friends of the Newark Free Library

November 10, 2009

Friends of the Newark Free Library

November 10, 2009

Minutes

 Present: Catriona Binder-McLeod, Pat Birchenall, Bob Rothman, Bob Startk, Juday Taggart, Florence Hendel, Peg Saenger, John Reddington, Noreen Campbell, Susan Gays

 Absent Flo Waibel, Sara Jane Spaulding, Sandra Burton

 Judy called the meeting to order.

 Corrections to the October 13 minutes

         Julliette Hsiao was incorrectly entered.

        The display case forms are still in draft.

Noreen moved the minutes be approved as amended, Susan seconded. Motion carried.

 Treasurer’s report

        Income recorded was $600.

        Expenditures were $800.

        Bank balance is $15,000

$764.34 was spent for the Humpty Dumpty pedestal and shipping.  The pedestal will be placed at the end of the computer pod in the Children’s Room.

  Display cases

Peg passed out a draft of the application form for exhibiters.  Cathy will try to find an attorney to look of the liability release portion of this application. 

 Annual meeting

Susan Gays is once again planning this event.  The date was set for March 21, 2010.  Caffee Gelato will be asked to cater the event and the format will be much the same as last year.

 Indoor sign

Cathy moved to allocate up to $1200 for a large flat screen TV and computer for an indoor sign.  Catriona seconded.  Motion passed.

 Membership and fundraising

Renewals are coming in rapidly following the issuance of the newsletter.  Judy has received many compliments on this newsletter.  Readers especially like the book reviews.  Please encourage your friends to consider writing a review or writing up their book club notes.

 After January 1, we will send a membership letter to remind members that they must pay their dues to continue receiving the newsletter by mail.  (It is posted on the library’s website.)

 Fundraising letter last year brought in around $5000.  This year, it was decided, that the fundraising drive will start at the annual meeting.  At the February meeting, we will decide the focus of this year’s appeal.

 LARB

Pat reported that two committees have been formed

1.       To study the provision of store front libraries in underserved areas

2.       To look at speeding building projects due to stimulus funds; perhaps Bear renovations, southern regional library, or new Claymont building

 Mike Fleming paper reported in the News Journal

This paper called for a halt to public funding for public libraries and parks in New Castle County.  The board discussed responding and decided not to do so at this time, as a response would generate more press for this idea.

 Delaware law enabling county libraries reads as follows:

TITLE 9

Counties

Provisions Affecting All Counties

CHAPTER 8. COUNTY LIBRARIES

Subchapter I. General Purposes

§ 801. Creation of county library agency; powers of county library administrator.

(a) The government of each county shall create a library agency as a part of the executive branch of county government and, in accordance therewith, shall have the power:

(1) To establish and administer a county library system offering to residents of the county access to services and resources and guidance in their use. Each county may create a countywide library system offering free and equal access to such services and resources to every resident of the county, or each county may create library districts within the county supported by taxes levied upon real property within said districts as provided for in this chapter providing that county residents who are not residents of a library district shall have access to such library district's services and resources upon payment of a fee set by ordinance of the county;

Italics are mine (Cathy’s).  The Delaware Council on Libraries is considering a resolution affirming free library services.  The American Library Association was unable to find any record of a public library that charges a fee for its library card.

 Library Managers report

The county library system will become part of statewide catalog and library card system.  Timing is uncertain but this will probably happen next summer.  The new catalog will have much greater capability and users’ library cards will be valid at any public library in Delaware.

 New program: Rewire to Retire program for job seekers will begin shortly.  Community Services received a $200,000 grant for this program in five county libraries.  There will be minimal staff involvement.

 Tax assistance will be provided again this year.

40 people attended the movie Food Inc. 

 Bel Canto will be the spring discussion book for New Castle County.

 The Board will consider a recommendation from Pat and Bob Rothman at the January meeting for a mystery/detective book speaker.

 Wriston Prize

The flier is done.  March 8th is the closing date for essays.

 Love Your Library

Fundraiser raised $28,000, $10,000 from Newark Friends, $10,000 from Brandywine Friends.

October 17 program was well attended.  There was no fundraising that day.

 Web Page is up to date.  Thank  you Catriona.

 Newsletter will be published in late January/February.

 Memorial Program flier will be taken to the printers next week. 

 Program

Judy will talk to Sara Jane about January library program; perhaps on state library web site.

 Summer Reading Program

We will once again partner with Caffe Gelato and distribute gift cards for gelato cones for readers.

 Snacks for Children’s programs

The friends will start supplying snacks and volunteers.

 Charlesa Lowell scholarship

Cathy will find out application deadline and inquire about updating website information.

 Music Programs

Bell Ringers December 13, 2 pm (funding already approved)

Bit of Rhythm February 7 will cost $500

Deltones March 7 will cost $50

Bob Rothman moved and Noreen seconded his motion to fund these two programs.

 

No December meeting

Next meeting January 12

 

Meeting Minutes: October 13, 2009

 Friends of the Newark Free Library

Meeting Minutes: October 13, 2009

7:00 p.m.

 The minutes were approved as written.

 Guest: Juliette Shaw, the watercolor artist with paintings in a library display case.  Juliette’s paintings have been on display in the library for the past three months.  They are very popular and selling well.  Juliette donates the proceeds to the Friends.  Sandra Burton asked her to join the Arts Committee and she agreed to do so.

 Treasurer’s Report – Noreen Campbell

One correction under Items to Report:  The sculpture fund balance is now $13,598.

 Love Your Library Campaign – Judy Taggart

A $10,000 donation to this campaign was approved.  The gift was designated for the Newark Free Library to purchase books, music, and DVDs.  Sara Jane Spaulding moved (Florence Hendel seconded) to take this $10,000 from the Friends general fund.  Motion passed.

 Outside signage: Judy

The city will not allow an additional outdoor sign.  The possibility of a large screen indorrs for announcements was discussed.  There is one at Kirkwood Highway.  Pat will investigate.

 Membership & Newsletter: -- Rob Rothman

A calendar year schedule for membership dues and the newsletter is being phased in.  Any contribution between now and the end of the year will count for 2010 membership.  Membership list will be cleaned up and the names of those no longer members will be purged from the list.  Bob will also do a fundraising/membership letter.

 League of Women Voters program

Presentation by Annie Norman, State Librarian, at Brandywine Hundred Library

Judy suggested we repeat this program and co-sponsor it with the league on a Friday morning.

Perhaps this could be the beginning of a series, with the second program on a January Friday morning.

 Display cases – Florence Hendel

There is now an application form for those wanting to create a display

There is also an Information of Exhibiters document

The Arts Committee is considering how to best manage the flow of exhibits and working to organize the process.

 Web Page – Catriona Binder-McCleod

Please send her information, especially calendar dates

 Love Your Library Event – Pat Birchenall

October 17: Love Your Library Day will include family sing-along, games, crafts, and multilingual storytime.

  Mrs. Bing’s gift

Sara Jane moved (Catriona seconded) that $2000/year be allocated for books and funding a speaker in the spring.   The theme will be mystery/detective fiction.  Motion passed.

 New base for Humpty Dumpty

Polly Carter is having a new base made, which will provide a safe base for Humpty where children can reach him.

 Food Bank – Catriona

People continue to bring canned goods, so we will continue this project.  [note: this program was listed in today’s paper 11/9/09].

 In Defense of Food book discussion & programs will include a showing of Food Inc. on Friday night.

 The library is now open on Sundays.

 Community Day – Peg

The reading to children idea did not work out well.  If we choose to do this again, we need to arrange or seed the audience.  Most of the books were given away.  We need an activity to draw people into our area.

 Honor and Memorial Books Program flyer is complete and Catriona will get it printed.

 John will put something in the newsletter about legacy gifts.

 Next meeting: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 7 pm at the Newark Free Library.

 

August 19, 2009

Friends of the Newark Free Library
Meeting Minutes: August 19, 2009
 
Present:  Catriona Binder-Macleod, Pat Birchenall, Bob Rothman, Bob Stark, Judy Taggart,
Flo Waibel, Sara Jane Spaulding, Sandra Burton, Florence Hendel, Cathy Wojewodzki
 Absent: Noreen Campbell, Susan Gays, John Reddington, Peg Saenger,
 
Judy Taggart called the meeting to order.  Bob Stark moved and Bob Rothman seconded 
the motion that minutes from the June 19 meeting be approved.  Minutes were approved.
 
Treasurer's Report
Noreen sent copies of her report.  She is recovering from shoulder surgery.
 
Adopt A Shelf
This program is working well.
 
Display cases
·There are currently two open, or soon to be open, cases.  
·Marcia Booth will fill one.  
·Juliette Hsaio has received much attention from having her work in a case, and 
consequently, will donate the proceeds from any of these pieces sold to the Friend.
· The Newark Historical Society has expressed interest in maintaining one of the cases.  
Iron Hill Museum is also interested.
· Florence is working on procedures and an application form.
 
Mailing List
Sara Jane, Flo, and bob Rothman met about the mailing list and membership.  From now 
on, the newsletter will go only to paying members.  This will be phased in with a reminder 
in November to pay dues and a follow-up in February or March.  We will stop sending 
the newsletter if there is no response.  The mailing list has grown over the years and is out 
of control.  The newsletter is on the web.  Copies are available to pick up in the library.  
Copies will still be mailed to public officials.
 
Community Day
A sign up page was passed around for volunteers to work at FNFL table Sept. 20 
(rain date - Sept. 27).  Judy will talk to Noreen about books from the Whamplers.
 
Web Page
Catriona asked for current info for the web page.
 
Mrs. Bing’s gift
Bob Stark suggested and most agreed that we need to take advantage of this gift to make 
legacy gifts attractive to potential donors.  Cathy will investigate what other libraries are
doing.  (Pat suggested Fairfax Co., VA.)  Pat will bring a proposal to the October meeting 
for our first expenditure from this fund.
 
Love Your Library 
No summer meetings LARB meetings, so no new news.  Main effort right now is “Love 
Your Library” campaign set for October.  Bookmarks and pledge cards have been printed 
for distribution.  Each library submitted a list of local businesses to be solicited to the 
county for this effort.  This will be an ongoing campaign.  A list of donors will be 
prominently displayed.  The Friends may be asked to contribute.
 
Pat found a librarian willing to play the piano for the Sing Along.  
There will also be other events: games, story time in four languages

 

The libraries will also be participating in a coupon fundraiser with Barnes & Noble on the Concord Pike, September 11-12.

 

Remainder of manager’s report

·         The Summer Reading Program was very large this year.   1532 children registered, 1047 finished.  Of those who actually participated, there was a 95% completion rate.

·         Fall hours: closed all day Thursday (no staff in the building) and open on Sunday 1-5 pm.

·         Humpty Dumpty: Pat and Polly Carter are working on a base that will allow Humpty to be put in a more prominent location.

 

Next meeting will be October 13th.  The September meeting is cancelled.

 

June 19, 2009

Friends of the Newark Free Library
Meeting Minutes: June 19, 2009
 
Present:  Catriona Binder-Macleod, Pat Birchenall, Noreen Campbell, Susan Gays, J
ohn Reddington, Bob Rothman, Peg Saenger, Judy Taggart, Flo Waibel
 
Judy Taggart called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm.  Susan moved that minutes from the 
March 18 meeting be approved.
 
Treasurer's Report:  Noreen distributed copies of the update as of May 18, and reported 
total assets of $79,570.  The tax exempt status problem with the IRS has been cleared up.  
An e-postcard needs to be filed annually with IRS, regardless of income level.  There was 
discussion of possible changes from a Vanguard account to a higher interest bearing 
account.  Delaware Community fund fees are increasing.  Noreen will also look into 
checking account charges.
 
Annual Meeting:  Judy thanked Susan Gays for doing a great job of organizing the brunch 
meeting which 60 persons, including several local politicians, attended.  Networks printed 
the invitations at a very reasonable cost. Catriona prepared programs that were printed 
with the annual report and other information.  Positive feedback has been received about 
the meeting.
 
Adopt a Shelf:  Pat reported that Ann Lewis, a staff person, is in process of contacting 
volunteers to set up a training date.  Because of decreased library staff, there is not time 
for the staff to straighten shelves and weed out books that need mending.  Peg Saenger 
suggested that this activity could be a good way for Scout troops and other youth groups 
to provide this community service.
 
Art Committee:  Florence Hendel and Peg Saenger are taking responsibility for two 
display cases each.  They will work with Sandra Burton.  Newark High School takes care 
of two display cases for nine months of the year, and the Newark Arts Alliance does one 
case.  Consideration is being given to moving the Humpty statue to another location so 
that it can be better viewed by more people.  The safety issue is still a concern, but Pat 
will seek a suitable new place for Humpty.
 
Mailing List Recommendation:  Bob Rothman feels that all things related to membership 
should be under the care of one person.  Noreen said that it would be easy to create a 
mailing list of Life and currently paid-up members.  Flo said that perhaps a "miss you" 
letter could be sent to those who have not renewed. 
 
Newsletter:  Jim Neal sent Judy an e-mail suggesting that the newsletter be sent by e-mail, 
rather than by hard copy.  Most of the board members like having a paper copy at this 
time, but we may move to the wave of the future at some point.
 
Membership Drive Evaluation:  Judy said that it is not worth having people sit at a table 
during National Library Week to encourage people to join FNFL, but that it is nice to have 
the display promoting activities of the Friends group.
 
Newark Nite:  Ideas are sought for working with Ryan German at Caffe Gelato to promote 
 
the Summer Reading Program.  Pat suggested that perhaps children could pick up a card 
from the display at Caffe Gelato.  If the child completes the reading program, then the 
card could provide a free gelato from Ryan.  Judy will ascertain what Ryan is willing to do, 
and Pat will work on developing an appropriate "card certificate" for this.
 
Library Manager's Report
·         Sara Jane Spaulding has been appointed to the State Council on Libraries.  
·         The new Kirkwood Library is to open on August 22.  This will involve the loss of 
some staff people at the NFL, but will also mean that Newark's business will slow down.  
The library has been busier since the hours for being open have changed.  On September 8, 
NFL will be open again on Sundays from 1-5 pm, and will be closed completely (no staff 
present) all day on Thursdays.  New Castle County has cut $400,000 from the book budget. 
·         "Love Your Library" day is scheduled for October 17.  Noreen moved and Susan 
seconded that FNFL fund $200 for Ed Okonowicz to tell ghost stories on that day.  Pat 
would also like to have a sing along that day with a pianist and song leader.  Perhaps the 
Sachers - Peggy, as song leader, and Dick, as pianist- would be willing to do this.  Michael 
Ahrenson is another possibility for piano playing.  Peg said that perhaps someone involved 
with Chapel Street Players could be contacted for this service.
·         Thirty-seven BBC Shakespeare DVDs have been ordered, and 30 large print books 
have been ordered with Leni Markell's $1000 gift to FNFL in honor and memory of Bill 
Markell.
·         Several summer music programs are scheduled.
·         Flo moved and Catriona seconded that $50 be provided for Jill Burke (Community 
College of Baltimore County) to present the program, "Frugal Living."
 
John Wriston Writing Prize: Letters to the winner as well as letters of rejection will be 
written on FNFL letterhead in the future.  Noreen read a thank-you note from Katie 
Alexander, who is this year's winner.  John Reddington pointed out that students need 
very specific directions for writing this essay.  Judy welcomed anyone on the board to 
read and weigh in on the essays.
 
Web Page:  Let Catriona know if anyone wants to add anything.
 
Community Day:  Peg Saenger is in charge.
 
Sara Jane:  The FNFL display board is being updated.  Pictures of the Board members 
go on a poster in the staff room.  
 
Cathy Wojewodzki and Bob Stark are to make recommendations for the use of Selina 
Bing's gift.
Nest meeting in August.  Newsletter in September.  Meeting adjourned at 8:25.

 

Minutes May 19,  2009

Friends of the Newark Free Library

Board Meeting Minutes

Tuesday May 19, 2009, 7:00 p.m.

Newark Free Library

Present:  Catriona Binder-Macleod, Pat Birchenall, Noreen Campbell, Susan Gays, John Reddington, Bob Rothman, Peg Saenger, Judy Taggart, Flo Waibel

 Judy Taggart called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm.  Susan moved that minutes from the March 18 meeting be approved.

Treasurer's Report:  Noreen distributed copies of the update as of May 18, and reported total assets of $79,570.  The tax exempt status problem with the IRS has been cleared up.  An e- postcard needs to be filed annually with IRS, regardless of income level.  There was discussion of possible changes from a Vanguard account to a higher interest bearing account.  Delaware Community fund fees are increasing.  Noreen will also look into checking account charges.

Annual Meeting:  Judy thanked Susan Gays for doing a great job of organizing the brunch meeting which 60 persons, including several local politicians, attended.  Networks printed the invitations at a very reasonable cost. Catriona prepared programs that were printed with the annual report and other information.  Positive feedback has been received about the meeting.

 Adopt a Shelf:  Pat reported that Ann Lewis, a staff person, is in process of contacting volunteers to set up a training date.  Because of decreased library staff, there is not time for the staff to straighten shelves and weed out books that need mending.  Peg Saenger suggested that this activity could be a good way for Scout troops and other youth groups to provide this community service. 

Art Committee:  Florence Hendel and Peg Saenger,  taking responsibility for two display cases each, will work with Sandra Burton.  Newark High School takes care of two display cases for nine months of the year, and the Newark Arts Alliance does one case.  Consideration is being given to moving the Humpty statue to another location so that it can be better viewed by more people.  The safety issue is still a concern, but Pat will seek a suitable new place for Humpty.

Mailing List Recommendation:  Bob Rothman feels that all things related to membership should be under the care of one person.  Noreen said that it would be easy to create a mailing list of Life and currently paid-up members.  Flo said that perhaps a "miss you" letter could be sent to those who have not renewed.

Newsletter:  Jim Neal sent Judy an e-mail suggesting that the newsletter be sent by e-mail, rather than by hard copy.  Most of the board members like having a paper copy at this time, but we may move to the wave of the future at some point.

Membership Drive Evaluation:  Judy said that it is not worth having people sit at a table during National Library Week to encourage people to join FNFL, but that it is nice to have the display promoting activities of the Friends group.

Newark Nite:  Ideas are sought to work with Ryan German at Caffe Gelato.  To promote the Summer Reading Program, Pat suggested that perhaps children could pick up a card from the display at Caffe Gelato.  If the child completes the reading program, then the card could provide a free gelato from Ryan.  Judy will ascertain what Ryan is willing to do, and Pat will work on developing an appropriate "card certificate" for this.

Library Manager's Report:  Sara Jane Spaulding has been appointed to the State LABR board. 

  •  - The new Kirkwood Library  is to open on August 22.  This will involve the loss of some staff people at the NFL, but will also mean that Newark's business will slow down.  The library has been busier since the hours for being open have changed.  On September 8, NFL will be open again on Sundays from 1-5 pm, and will be closed completely (no staff present) all day on Thursdays.  New Castle County has cut $400,000 from the book budget.
  • "Love Your Library" day is scheduled for October 17.  Noreen moved and Susan seconded that FNFL fund $200 for Ed Okonowicz to tell ghost stories on that day.  Pat would also like to have a sing along that day with a pianist and song leader. 
  • Perhaps Peggy, as song leader, and Dick, as pianist, Sachers would be willing to do this.  Michael Ahrenson is another possibility for piano playing.  Peg said that perhaps someone involved with Chapel Street Players could be contacted for this service.
  • Thirty-seven BBC Shakespeare DVDs have been ordered, and 30 large print books have been ordered with Leni Markell's $1000 gift to FNFL in honor and memory of Bill Markell.
  • Several summer music programs are scheduled.
  • Flo moved and Catriona seconded that $50 be provided for Jill Burke (Community College of Baltimore County) to present the program, "Frugal Living."

 John Wriston Writing Prize: Letters to the winner as well as letters of rejection will be written on FNFL letterhead in the future.  Noreen read a thank-you note from Katie Alexander, who is this year's winner.  John Reddington pointed out that students need very specific directions for writing this essay.  Judy welcomed anyone on the board to read and weigh in on the essays.

Web Page:  Let Catriona know if anyone wants to add anything.

Community Day:  Peg Saenger is in charge.  Sara Jane is working on display of FNFL board and will add photos of new board members.

 Selina Bing's gift.  Cathy Wojewodzki and Bob Stark will make recommendations.

 Next meeting in August.  Newsletter in September.  Meeting adjourned at 8:25.

 Minutes submitted  by Flo Waibel-- 

Minutes February 18, 2009

Friends of the Newark Free Library

Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 7:00 p.m.

Newark Free Library

 

Approval of January 28, 2009 Minutes                                                    Judy Taggart

                The minutes were approved as written

                Motion for approval was moved by Noreen, Seconded by Sara Jane

                                               

Treasurer’s Report                                                                                                          Noreen Campbell

  • The treasurer’s report is attached at the end of these minutes.  Members requested a list of those who donated over $500 last year.  Noreen will send this information via email.
  • Bob Stark will read the treasurer’s report at the annual meeting, as Noreen will be away.

 

2008 Audit Process                                                                                                          Bob Stark

Bob Stark completed his audit and all’s well.

 

Nominating Committee                                                                                                                Judy Taggart

  • Board membership terms were reviewed for accuracy. 
  • There are three nominees for vacant positions:  Laura Classen, Florence Hendel, and Peg Saenger

               

By Laws Revision                                                                                                              Judy Taggart

Attached are the proposed revised bylaws, rationale for changes, and the current by laws.  Thank you to Flo, Sue and Sara Jane and Judy for this work.  The proposed changes will be available and will be put on the Friends website.  A vote on these changes will occur at the annual meeting March 29th.

 

Art Committee Report                                                                                                   Sandra Burton

  • It is hoped that most members will be able to see the Humpty Dumpty sculpture this weekend and email Sandra their approval message next week.  This negotiated price of $8200 includes delivery and installation.  This will be paid from the Art Fund. 
  • The committee is also working with a local mural artist on a mural for the children’s room.

 

Annual Meeting/Thank You Brunch                                                                         Susan Gays

Planning in  underway and progressing as it should.

Wriston family (and perhaps some special donors) will be invited.

 

John Wriston Prize                                                                                                          John Reddington

  • An advertisement was put in the Newark paper.  A copy was passed around.
  • John has also contacted English teachers and high school librarians.  The response from the librarians were very good. 

Web Page                                                                                                           Catriona Binder-MacLeod

The project is nearly complete.  Catriona requested some specific information that should be posted; i.e. past Wriston Prize winners, etc.

 

Charlesa Lowell Scholarship                                                                                         Pat Birchenall

  • The deadline has passed, so we need DLA to extend it.  Cathy will check on this.
  • Sara Jane will check into promoting/advertising the scholarship in the Newark area next fall. 

Newsletter                                                                                                                         Bob Rothman

The next newsletter will be in May or June.

 

Staff Appreciation                                                                                                           Sara Jane Spaulding

This activity is evidently a hit.  John Reddington brought the staff a huge box of chocolates.  Thursday seems to be an especially good day for bringing in goodies.

 

County Library Advisory Board                                                                                   Sara Jane Spaulding

  • All the Advisory Board discussions focus on the budget right now. 
  • The County hopes to reopen libraries on Sundays in September, but each will close another day during the week.
  • System for issuing library cards, as it relates to library fines, will change.  New users will get 6 month temporary cards.
  • Next fall, there will be a countywide fundraiser to generate funds to purchase books. 

Membership Drive                                                                                                          Judy Taggart

A table will be set up on April 13 for the evening program to attract new members.  We will try to produce a new flyer for this event.  The friends will be providing refreshments this evening.

 

Friend’s Collection for Food Bank                                                             Catriona Binder-MacLeod

                This project has gone well and will continue.

 

Library Manager’s Report                                                                                             Pat Birchenall

  • Pat is not requesting funds for new purchases at the moment.  The library does need a new book cart and a bench has also been approved.  She did purchase the large CD collection approved last fall.
  • The county budget is changing daily and she thinks it best to wait and see how things turn out.  Library managers have been asked what they would do if their budgets were cut further.  There is lots of uncertainty, talk of layoffs, salary cuts, etc.  The Newark staff are still adjusting to their new schedules.
  • Since the library is closed on Sundays, use patterns are changing.  85 staff hours have been cut (all part time staff).
  • Pat would like to get the Friends “Adopt-a-shelf” program underway, as the shelves are getting messy.
  • April 13 program: Friends will provide refreshments.  Flo’s will coordinate refreshments.
  • April 24: Friends will sell author’s book and will be allowed to keep the profits.

 

 

Plaque of Past Presidents                                                                                            Judy Taggart

Judy recommended a plaque with the names of the Friends past presidents.  This was approved.

 

Special recognitions at the Annual Meeting.                                                        Judy Taggart

The board discussed presenting the Soles family with a framed certificate.  There was also discussion of who else should be recognized and how, but no decision. 

 

Topics for future consideration:

How should we honor donors? 

Criteria for recognition

Mrs. Bing’s gift

 

Next Board Meeting will be March 18, 2009

Annual luncheon will be Sunday, March 29.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Cathy Wojewodzki

February 19, 2009

Minutes January 28, 2009

Friends of the Newark Free Library

Meeting minutes

January 28, 2009, 7:00 p.m.

Newark Free Library

 

Members present: Catriona Binder-Macleod, Susan Gays, Sara Jane Spaulding, Judy Taggart, Cathy Wojewodzki , Flo Waibel, and Library Manager Pat Birchenall.                 

Members absent: John Reddington, Bob Stark, Bob Rothman, Noreen Campbell, Sandra Burton, Sue Rekart

                   

The hours preceding the meeting was spent with New Castle County Council Paul Clark and General Manager for Community Services Anne Farley.  Friends members from other libraries also attended for this general discussion of the county budget and its impact on library services.

 

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Noreen Campbell’s report is attached at the end of these minutes.

 

Annual meeting: The annual meeting will once again be a Sunday brunch held at the library on March 29th.  This year the charge will be $15 per person.  As usual, there will also be invited guests who not be charged, i.e. government officials.

 

Website: Catriona reported on her progress with the web site.  Everyone was pleased with her progress and the product.

 

Nominating committee: three names have been put forward and the group was pleased with this list.  Those suggested are Peg Sanger, Laura Claussen, and Florence Hendel.

 

Bylaws: Judy will email the bylaws information and will also prepare a summary of changes for the annual meeting.

 

Wriston prize:  John Reddington called all the English teachers about this prize.  The deadline is

March 9th. 

 

Charlesa scholarship: currently there are no applicants.  Pat will follow up on this.

 

Future meetings:

Wednesday, February 18

Wednesday, March 18

Sunday, March 29: Annual Meeting

No meeting in April

Wednesday, May 20

June, Newark Night

 

Respectfully submitted: Cathy Wojewodzki

February 3, 2008

 

 

Minutes December 4, 2008

Friends of the Newark Free Library

Meeting minutes

December 4, 2008, 7:00 p.m.

Newark Free Library

 

Members present:

Catriona Binder-Macleod, Noreen Campbell, Susan Gays, John Reddington, Bob Rothman, Sara Jane Spaulding, Bob Stark, Judy Taggart, Cathy Wojewodzki , Flo Waibel, Sandra Burton

Library Manager Pat Birchenall was also present.

 

The meeting was called to order by President Taggart.  The minutes of the October 15th meeting were approved as written.

 

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Noreen Campbell’s report is attached.

Noreen and Bob Stark meet to establish a process for an audit.  Bob will start in January and work on one year at a time.  Noreen has organized the files for the audit.

The Friends currently give the library $100 about every other month for miscellaneous expenses that the county will not cover.  These are normally associated with programming; i.e. refreshments, Halloween candy.  Noreen was unable to find documentation for this expense in her files or minutes.  The library tracks these funds on a spreadsheet.  Pat will give Noreen a copy for her files on a regular basis.

Motion: The Friends will contribute up to $1000 a year to support program expenses that the County will not generally support (such as refreshments).  Moved by Cathy, seconded by Bob Stark.  Passed with no dissenting votes

 

Friends’ Records (Judy)

Judy has made arrangements with Rebecca Johnson Melvin, Special Collections, University of Delaware Library, to transfer the records of the Friends of the Newark Free Library to the UD Library.  The board voted and approved the contract outlining the details of this agreement.

Motion: Bob Stark moved we approve the contract.  Flo seconded the motion.  Passed unanimously

The secretary will be responsible for the transfer.  The president will be the backup person.

(Note: the duty needs to be included in Board job descriptions.)

 

Year End Membership Letter (Judy)

Sue Rekart has written the letter and taken it to be printed.  She has worked with Judy and Bob Rothman on the letter and mailing.  The letters are expected out in the next week.  It was suggest that the Friends get some clear address labels to use for return envelopes.

 

Art Committee Report (Sandra Burton)

The Asian prints have been reframed.

The Committee is considering acquiring a piece of sculpture for the Children’s Room.  A rabbit by Lorann Jacobs is under consideration.  It is large enough for children to climb upon.  The Board members generally liked the rabbit and worried about safety.  Approximately $12,000 from the Art Fund is being considered for acquisitions for the Children’s Room.  Sandra plans to visit the artist’s studio and look at her work one Sunday soon.  She will let others know when, so they can visit also.  We hope to have the piece before March 29th.  For those interested in previewing Lorann’s work, please see www. lorannjacobs.com.

Other suggestions included a mural and prints/pictures depicting scenes from classic children’s stories. 

Bob Stark and Catriona are interested in working with the Art Committee.

Teen Friends Group (Judy)

The board members discussed the possibility of a Teen Friends group.  While many thought it a nice idea, we decided that it probably had to wait for a leader especially interested in spearheading this initiative.  Information about teen library groups can be found on the web on the FOLUSA (Friends of Libraries of the United States of America) http://www.folusa.org/resources/pdf-versions/fact-sheet-5.pdf.  (Some of you might be interested in www.folusa.org.)

Books for Snowden Cottage (Catriona)

Catriona’s phone calls have not been returned, so she and Judy will follow up on this together.  She is still collecting books.

 

Display of Friends ‘ Activities

Sara Jane is creating this for the Dec. 10 Library Summit and for use afterwards to promote the Friends.  Noreen will take photos for her this weekend.  She and Judy will take it to the Summit and set up the display.

Staff appreciation (Sara Jane)

This activity seems to be going well.

County Library Advisory Board (Sara Jane)

The Board is working on long range planning and a new construction master plan.

Beginning Jan. 1, NCC libraries will be closed on Sundays and on Thursday nights due to budget cuts.

John Wriston Prize (John Reddington)

John will send out appropriate notification in January.  School librarians will be added to his contact list.

 

 Library Manager’s Report (Pat)

Part time staff will be effected by the budget cuts.

Only Newark and Brandywine will remain open on Friday evening.

Dec. 12 First State Ringers

Dec. 7 Wilmington Drama League Pillow Plays

Dec. 17 Staff holiday luncheon: Board members welcome to stop by for lunch and visit.

The Soles family continues to fund the Early Readers program.  Judy passed around the magnet and bag that are distributed for everyone to see.

Spring NCC Reads program will feature Bill Bryson’s Walk in the Woods.

 

Newsletter (Bob Rothman)

Next newsletter will be in mid February.

 

Annual Meeting Brunch

Susan Gays will coordinate this event.

 

Nominations

Judy is asking all board members to continue for another year to provide some continuity.

 

 

 

Cathy Wojewodzki

December 5, 2008


 

Friends of the Newark Free Library

December 4, 2008 Financial Report

Report Period 9/1/08 to 11/30/08

 

Income during Period                                                                $ 2,248.36

                                                                                                 $    215.00 pending

Expenses during Period                                                                $  5044.81

$      373.47

Art Supplies

 $      100.00

miscellaneous

 $        11.98

Books for Adult book club

 $        32.25

toner

 $        71.90

Books for Adult book club

 $      100.00

miscellaneous

 $        97.91

toys for children's library room

 $      363.00

purchase of a display board

 $   2,819.00

canvas bags

 $      775.30

magnet frames

 $      300.00

maintenance contract

 

Current Checking Balance                                                            $26128.81

Current Vanguard Balance                                                           $49,007.97                                                                                                                                  

Current Community Fund Balance                                            $11,067.49

 

Minutes October 15, 2008

Friends of the Newark Free Library

Meeting minutes

October, 15, 2008, 7:00 p.m.

Newark Free Library

 

Members present:

Judy Taggart, Noreen Campbell, Cathy Wojewodzki, Sue Rekart, Susan Gays, John Reddington

Library Manager Pat Birchenall was also present.

 

Corrections to minutes for August 27:

Spelling of Sue Rekart’s name will be corrected for the file copy.

 

Treasurers Report:

Financial report is attached.

Bob Stark will audit the Friends books for 2006 to present.

 

Bylaws: Susan Hilton will work with Sue Rekart and Judy Taggart on revisions to the bylaws.

 

Library book purchase: Board approved allocation of $4500.

Motion made by John and seconded by Sue Rekart. 

Funds will be allocated approximately as follows:

                Travel DVDs        about $2000

                African American national Biography reference set          about $1000

                Audio books       about $1500

 

Reports and ideas

·         Recommendation on contributing archives to UD Special Collections will be discussed at a future meeting.

·         Change machine would be $1600, so idea of purchasing one has been dropped.

·         Community day ideas for next year:

                Guest readers

                Children’s table and chairs or cushions

·         Sara Jane did a nice board for the staff room with board photos.

·         Catriona has already taken books to Snowden Cottage.

 

Art Committee

·         Sandra Burton will chair.  Other members: Mae Carter, Polly Carter C?, Barbara Wood, Pat Birchenall

·         Board will vote to approve members and amount of expenditures.  Committee members will do the selection.  First focus of committee will be the Children’s Room.  Each gift will come with a contract stipulating method for acquisition, deaccessioning, and disposal of the art work Friends purchase.

·         The Art Committee will also take care of the 6 display cases.  Sandra has already started working on a schedule.

·         Asian prints have been framed.  Cost was $300-400.

 

Annual Meeting

According to the bylaws, this is to be held in April, but maybe March would be ok.

Currently considering a combined brunch – annual meeting on March 29th.

A chair for this event is still needed.

 

Charlesa A. Lowell Memorial Scholarship

Group present recommended raising the scholarship amount to $1000.  This will be discussed at next meeting.

 

More information from Pat

·         Pat will put out a flyer on the Wriston Prize at scholarship program in the Library, October 6th.

·         When children get a library card, the library gives them a bag, magnet, etc.  This project has been funded by the Soles family.  Pat will check and see if they want to continue funding this program.

·         Friends canvas bags are selling steadily and it’s time to order more.

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

November 1: Delaware Book Festival.  Dover, The Green

November 17 & 18: Advocate in a Minute workshop on library advocacy.  Members are encouraged to attend one of these sessions.  Dover, Delaware Division of Libraries

December 10: Library Summit.  Please come and help us plan our strategy for improving libraries for the next 4 years.  Come find a use for your newly learned advocacy skills.  Dover, Dover Downs Conference Center

 

NEXT MEETINGS

Thursday, December 4

Wednesday, January 7

Wednesday, February 18