Library manager reports circulation, programs and building issues; outdoor classroom feedback due next meeting

Gwen, the library manager, told the Los Alamos Library Board on March 3 that February print circulation was 22,335 and digital circulation was 5,887, representing roughly 31% of total circulation.

The circulation figures came as Gwen summarized program and project activity. She told the board that weekend tabletop game days are gaining attendance (56 in February), music-and-movement sessions drew more than 75 participants, and the All Schools Art Show and an upcoming photographers’ exhibit are scheduled in the gallery. Gwen noted an author event on March 9 featuring Deborah Jackson Tafa, whose memoir Whiskey Tender was a 2024 National Book Award finalist.

Gwen said the outdoor-classroom public poll closed the previous night with “about 230 responses” and that staff will present detailed results at the next meeting and work with architects to modify the design based on feedback. “I will get that for the next meeting,” she said.

On facilities, Gwen said the siding replacement project at Mesa Public Library is moving quickly and contractors expect to finish siding around March 20; remaining crack-filling work requires warmer weather. She also reported an insect problem identified as likely carpenter ants concentrated along exterior walls in the youth-services area. Gwen said the library will schedule a treatment during spring break that “will necessitate closing down the lowest level” of the building; she told the board the lower level will be closed for approximately 24 hours while treatment takes place and staff will publicize exact dates once they are set.

Gwen said the library’s new website is scheduled to go live March 18 and thanked board members who tested and provided feedback. She also said the library’s staffing level is 27.25 full-time equivalent positions, and that some resignations have produced part-time changes that staff are addressing.

Other operational items in the manager’s report included plans to procure a smaller pick-up locker unit for a branch (described as “half the size” of the Mesa lockers), and the library’s arrangement with the Friends and ThriftBooks for surplus materials. On that topic the board heard that the Friends decided on a block grant of $45,000 to the library this year and that the Friends may consider additional funding requests if needs arise.

Board members asked clarifying questions about the ant treatment and the lower-level closure. Gwen said the treatment uses a product that will adhere where sprayed and that the remainder of the building should be unaffected while the lower level is closed. She said more precise scheduling information will be provided to the public when available.

The manager’s report concluded with positive patron feedback on displays and delivery services to the White Rock branch.