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Library director proposes amnesty day and outlines outreach and collection changes
Summary
Library staff proposed an amnesty day funded by the Friends of the Library, discussed outreach-restricted funds and how they might be used for large-print books and outreach services, and presented annual report collection statistics showing mixed changes after flood-related closures.
Library staff told the West Bend Community Memorial Library Board on Feb. 17 that the Friends of the Library have proposed a donor-funded amnesty day to forgive eligible overdue fines for patrons who request the waiver during the designated event.
The Library Director described operational details: patrons would need to come in and request the amnesty; lost-item and damage fees would not be waived. "They would pay for the fines of whoever showed up for that day that were accumulated in the past year," the Library Director said, explaining the Friends would fund the estimated total amount the library would forgive. Board members requested that staff publicize the event in the newsletter and with signs, and discussed timing to maximize foot traffic (end of summer or September were suggested).
The director also reviewed outreach-restricted funds and options for using them. Staff reported multiple staff members perform outreach duties and that outreach has historically used a mix of restricted funds and annual budget allocations for materials and staffing. The board asked staff (including outreach leadership) to prepare a one-page plan explaining likely uses for restricted outreach funds—examples included large-print purchases, outreach materials and a mechanized material-handling/checking system to speed patron service.
On collections and services, staff reported the library is rebuilding its physical collection after recent disruptions: owned print holdings decreased by about 2,000 items year-over-year while acquisitions resumed; physical audio materials increased by roughly 190 items; some e-content counts (ebooks and e-audio) fell. Staff noted off-site programs and outreach helped increase visits even during periods the building was partially closed.
What happens next Staff will: (1) prepare a short written plan for how outreach-restricted funds could be used, (2) propose a date and publicity plan for an amnesty day if the Friends confirm funding, and (3) provide the finalized annual report to DPI and to the board as approved.
