Director reports holiday programs, donations and new art exhibit at Farmers Branch Library

The library director provided a combined November/December report covering programming, donations, artworks and upcoming events.

Speaker 5 said staff combined the two monthly reports to save paper and highlighted holiday programs (Santa and cookies), an opening for a small 'tiny art' show with strong turnout, and ongoing placement of artwork throughout the building. Speaker 1 reported the book donation subcommittee processed about 400 books for donation and is coordinating a drop‑off with a contact named Vince. Speaker 2 summarized grant opportunities observed at the state level, citing examples of grant awards — one listed around $24,000 for an early literacy partnership and another example near $75,000 for accessible furniture and makerspace support — and suggested the board consider applying for similar grants.

The director reminded the board about closures (a holiday and an annual Presidents Day staff training day) and encouraged board members to consider attending the Texas Library Association conference in Dallas in April (the director said the library could cover admissions and membership for up to two board members; attendees would cover travel). Staff also noted team leaders will run a tissue drive aimed at Farmers Branch elementary schools.

Next steps: Staff will continue to schedule events, finalize plaques for artwork displays, and follow up on the book donation logistics; board members were asked to notify staff promptly if they wish to attend the TLA conference.