Carnegie Board of Trustees Meeting

Minutes May 17, 2007

Present: Betty O’Dell, Chair; Delores Hanson, Debbie Frazier, Kathy Agnew, and Kate Lewis, Librarian. Guest: Mrs. Barbara Sell

Delores Hanson called the meeting to order, Betty O’Dell read the minutes from the May 8^th meeting. Minutes were approved by all.

Guest Barbara Sell stated that she was interested in reviewing the by-laws for the library. By-laws can now be found on the library website at bigtimberlibrary.org Mrs. Sell expressed interest in being involved with updating library policies and asked to be notified when this takes place.

Old Business

Budget - Two differing points of view were expressed by board members about the budget. One point of view is in favor of keeping the same budget or even cutting the budget due to the fact that the city budget is already strained. The city has been a good partner and the library should not ask for increases which would strain an already tight city budget. The other point of view expressed includes raising line items in the budget which fell short last year and adding $10,000 for a third part-time library employee. A new budget will be prepared with these changes in mind and presented to the city with a narrative, making it clear that negotiations are to be expected. The rationale for this point of view is that the library should tell the city what is needed and that it is expected that the additional space and increased open hours of the new building will require adjustments in the budget. Kathy Agnew agreed to continue work on the budget and create a narrative which will be used when presenting the budget to the city council.

Federation - Kate Lewis presented a list of items which will be purchased with Federation money before the end of fiscal year 06-07. These items must be aligned with Federation Goals and Objectives and include a printer, a projector, and a laptop. Kathy Agnew moved to approve the purchases and the motion was seconded by Betty O’Dell .

New Business

The Summer Institute flyer was passed around the table. Library Directors are required to attend but Board Members are encouraged to attend as well. Kate Lewis will be attending all three days, June 5-7. The topics are creating a disaster plan and community leadership.