Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Library Operations topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Library manager reports circulation, programs, staffing changes and software procurement process
Summary
The library reported September circulation and program participation numbers, upcoming programs, staffing hires, a staff development closure and a vendor review for the library software system.
Gwen, the library manager, presented the manager’s report with usage statistics, program highlights, staffing updates and procurement plans.
She said September print circulation was 25,122 and digital circulation was 9,613, representing 28% of the total 34,733 circulations for the month. The library held 68 programs in September with total attendance of 1,277. Program examples cited included a presentation by regional horticulturist Lee Goodwin, a puzzle competition the library plans to run quarterly, an upcoming small concert by a group called Love Call and two pastel workshops on Nov. 2 presented by the Pastel Society of New Mexico (artists Nicholas Teslick and Liddy Roller).
Gwen said the library is reviewing bids to replace its library software system after more than 15 years with the current vendor. The procurement committee will evaluate demonstrations and select a top vendor; the library listed credit-card payment capability as a major requirement the current system lacks.
Staffing changes reported: Rochelle McElderry will start Oct. 13 as senior librarian in charge of digital services; Kate Cardenio King will start Nov. 24 as operations librarian; the library will soon recruit for two three-quarter-time library associate positions. Both branches will be closed Friday, Nov. 7 for a staff development day.
Gwen also noted operational items tied to services and community support: the library’s “library of things” collection is expanding (items include telescopes and thermal cameras), Narcan and hygiene products are available at service desks, and staff have received training to connect patrons with county and regional social services. She said the community services department was a gold-medal finalist for National Recreation and Park Association accreditation and that a plaque presentation is scheduled at the county council meeting the next day.
Board members asked several operational questions about the software procurement process; Gwen said the library cannot discuss bidders by name but that demonstrations and an evaluation process will determine the recommendation, and that the option to remain with the current vendor is on the table. She confirmed the November 7 closure applies to both library branches.
