HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-11-2023-BLT-AGENDA PACKETCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES AGENDA
Civic Center Council Chambers
100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Monday, December 11, 2023 - 4:30 PM
Board of Library Trustees Members:
Paul Watkins, Chair
Dorothy Larson, Vice Chair
Lauren Kramer, Secretary
Antonella Castro, Trustee
Chase Rief, Trustee
Staff Members:
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
Francine Jacome, Administrative Support Specialist
The Board of Library Trustees meeting is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act. Among other things, the Brown Act
requires that the Board of Library Trustees agenda be posted at least seventy-two (72) hours in advance of each regular
meeting and that the public be allowed to comment on agenda items before the Commission and items not on the
agenda but are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Board of Library Trustees. The Chair may limit public
comments to a reasonable amount of time, generally two (2) minutes per person.
The public can submit questions and comments in writing for the Board of Library Trustees to consider. Please send
them by email to the Library Services Department at LibraryBoard@newportbeachca.gov by Sunday, December 10, at 4:00
p.m. to give the Board of Library Trustees time to consider your comments. All emails will be made part of the record.
The City of Newport Beach’s goal is to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an
attendee or a participant at this meeting, you will need special assistance beyond what is normally provided, we will
attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner. Please contact Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director, at
least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting to inform us of your particular needs and to determine if accommodation
is feasible at (949) 717-3801 or mhartson@newportbeachca.gov.
NOTICE REGARDING PRESENTATIONS REQUIRING USE OF CITY EQUIPMENT
Any presentation requiring the use of the City of Newport Beach’s equipment must be submitted to the Library Services
Department 24 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
I.CALL MEETING TO ORDER
II.ROLL CALL
III.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IV.NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
The City provides a yellow sign-in card to assist in the preparation of the minutes. The
completion of the card is not required in order to address the Board of Library Trustees. If the
optional sign-in card has been completed, it should be placed in the tray provided.
The Board of Library Trustees of Newport Beach welcomes and encourages community
participation. Public comments are generally limited to two (2) minutes per person to allow
everyone to speak. Written comments are encouraged as well. The Board of Library Trustees
has the discretion to extend or shorten the time limit on agenda or non-agenda items. As a
courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
December 11, 2023
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Board of Library Trustees Meeting
V.CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under CONSENT CALENDAR are considered to be routine and will all be
enacted by one motion in the form listed below. Board of Library Trustees have received
detailed staff reports on each of the items recommending an action. There will be no separate
discussion of these items prior to the time the Board of Library Trustees votes on the motion
unless members of the Board of Library Trustees request specific items to be discussed and/or
removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Members of the public who wish to
discuss a Consent Calendar item should come forward upon invitation by the Chair.
Minutes of the Nov 20, 2023 Board of Library Trustees Meeting (pp. 5-14)1.
DRAFT MINUTES
Patron Comments (pp. 15-17)2.
Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests
received from patrons.
PATRON COMMENTS
Patron's Request for Evaluation of Library Resources (pp. 18-35)3.
Monthly review of evaluations of library resources as requested by patrons, with
corresponding staff responses.
PATRON REQUESTS FOR EVALUATION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES
Library Activities (pp. 36-45)4.
Monthly update of library events, services and statistics.
NOVEMBER ACTIVITIES
Expenditure Status Report (p. 46)5.
Monthly expenditure status of the library's operating expenses, services, salaries,
and benefits by department.
NOVEMBER EXPENDITURES
Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List (p. 47)6.
List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of Library
Trustees.
MONITORING LIST
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Board of Library Trustees Meeting
VI.CURRENT BUSINESS
A.Items for Review
Patron's Request for Evaluation of Library Resources Appeal Application
(pp. 48-49)
7.
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the proposed "Patron's
Request for Evaluation of Library Resources: patron Application for Appeal" form.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENT A
Laptop Borrowing Policy (NBPL 10)(pp. 50-53)8.
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees review and accept revisions to
Library Policy NBPL 10, Laptop Borrowing Policy.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENTS A-C
Review Holidays and Meeting Schedule (pp. 54-56)9.
Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review the Library's holiday and
meeting schedule for 2024 and approve as presented.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENT A
Lecture Hall Update10.
Report on activities related to the Library Lecture Hall project.
Balboa Branch Replacement Update11.
Report on activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project.
Library Services (pp. 36-45)12.
Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons and staff.
December 11, 2023
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Board of Library Trustees Meeting
B.Monthly Reports
Library Foundation Liaison Reports (pp. 57-59)13.
A. Library Foundation Board - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
B. Library Live Lectures Committee - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
C. Witte Lectures Committee - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
FOUNDATION REPORT
Friends of the Library Liaison Report14.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Literacy Services Liaison Report15.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Literacy Services Advisory Board
meeting.
VII.PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Public comments are invited and non-agenda items generally considered to be within the
subject matter jurisdiction of the Board of Library Trustees. Speakers must limit comments to
two (2) minutes. Before speaking, we invite, but do not require, you to state your name for the
record. The Board of Library Trustees has the discretion to extend or shorten the speakers’
time limit on agenda or non-agenda items, provided the time limit adjustment is applied equally
to all speakers. As a courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
VIII.BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION
ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
IX.ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Board of Library Trustees Newport Beach Central Library 1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport Beach Meeting Minutes Monday, November 20, 2023 – 5:00 p.m. I. CALL MEETING TO ORDER – 5:00 P.M. Chair Paul Watkins called to order the regular meeting of the Newport Beach Board of Library Trustees and requested all public speakers to please speak clearly into the microphone. There are currently four Trustees, there will be a fifth Trustee following a City Council appointment on November 28, 2023. II. ROLL CALL – Roll call by Administrative Support Specialist Francine Jacome. Trustees Present: Chair Paul Watkins, Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, Trustee Antonella Castro, Secretary Lauren Kramer
Trustees Absent: None
Staff Present: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager Annika Helmuth, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator
Andrew Kachaturian, Circulation and Technical Processing Coordinator Erin Spivey, Adult Services Coordinator Staff Absent None III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Vice Chair Dorothy Larson led the Pledge of Allegiance
IV. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC - Waived V. CONSENT CALENDAR Administrative Support Specialist Jacome read the Consent Calendar Notice to the public. A. Consent Calendar Items Chair Watkins pulled Consent Calendar Item 3 for discussion. 1. Minutes of the October 16, 2023 Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Chair Watkins referenced Handwritten Page 12 of the minutes and requested the spelling of “pollenate” be corrected. 2. Patron Comments Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests received from patrons.
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3.Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library ResourcesMonthly review of evaluations of library resources as requested by patrons withcorresponding staff responses.
*ITEM REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION
Chair Watkins referred to several Patron Comments regarding the excellent service of the reference desk, the clean restroom facilities, and travel assistance provided; Chair Watkins extended gratitude to Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot and
Circulation and Technical Processing Coordinator Andrew Kachaturian for their responses to those comments and pulled the item for further discussion (please see below).
4.Library ActivitiesMonthly update of library events, services, and statistics.
5.Expenditure Status ReportMonthly expenditure status of the library’s operating expenses, services, salaries,and benefits by department.
Chair Watkins reported that they are one-third through the fiscal year (FY) and under
budget by about 1% at 32.39% total expenses.
6.Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List
List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board ofLibrary Trustees.
Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments.
Jim Mosher, Newport Beach resident, provided public comment regarding Item number four – Library Activities – and questioned the statistics he had previously not seen regarding other requests from other libraries and the requests of Newport Beach libraries outnumbered the others by about 10:1 and was curious where those requests originated and what materials Newport Beach has that the other libraries may not have.
Motion made by Secretary Lauren Kramer, seconded by Trustee Antonella Castro, and carried (4-0-0-0) to approve the Consent Calendar Items 1-2 & 4-6 with the minor changes to the October 16, 2023 draft minutes.
AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro NOES:
ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES:
*SPECIAL CALL – Consent Calendar Item 3
Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources Monthly review of evaluations of library resources as requested by patrons with corresponding staff responses.
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Chair Watkins referred to the 16 patron requests for evaluation that were included in the packet and opened the item for public comment prior to Board discussion.
Haley Jenkins commented about several children’s book evaluation requests she submitted two months ago only receiving two responses. All the books are now back on the shelves. Ms. Jenkins questioned why book evaluation forms are made available if no
consideration is given to the content of the books evaluated and referenced the Freedom
to Read policy and Library Services Director Melissa Hartson’s parameters for material collection and commented that nothing will ever be removed; further stating that she and
other patrons would like to appeal Library Services Director Hartson’s decision on the books in her request and are unable to find instructions on how to carry through with an appeal. Ms. Jenkins read an excerpt from the book “Melissa”. Bill Dunlap, Newport Beach resident, expressed his concern regarding an evaluation request for the book “A Prince and a Night” in the Mariners branch, which can still be found there, also used by Mariners Elementary School. When he questioned the evaluation requests process, he stated that he was referred to Library Services Director Hartson, and when he spoke to Library Servies Director Hartson, she informed him it was a Newport-Mesa Unified School District decision. The book is not on the State approved list; and he is further concerned about using outside review agencies who are funded by publishers
and authors, which creates a conflict within the process of review. Mr. Dunlap expressed his intent to appeal against the decision to keep the book available to children.
Debra Klein, Newport Beach resident, provided public comment regarding her concern for the choices of library books available to children and appreciates under the new policy that all books will be reviewed upon request. Ms. Klein questioned Library Services
Director Hartson’s decision to leave the book “Melissa” available to children and requested further review be provided. Annie Vangrow, Newport Beach resident, offered a different opinion about the material referenced under this item. From her experience, she respected each parent’s concern with their child reading the book, however she doesn’t believe it is appropriate for them to make that choice for other people in the community. Quite often a children’s book can help lead into a discussion and possibly answer questions that children may have regarding alternative lifestyles they may not understand. Joni Nichols, Newport Beach resident, provided comment on Library Services Director
Hartson’s letters and felt it created a tone in which parents could feel heard and were receiving an answer to their concerns and commended the Library staff for responding to each one of the concerns that were submitted. She agrees that these books help build
empathy for others and create a more worldly view on a more inclusive society. Vien Nguyen, Newport Beach resident, thanked staff and the Board for the all the work
put into the Libraries, and commended them for responding to each evaluation request. The responses were very well written and researched. The Library staff are all well-educated, as are the outside review consultants. Children will have friends who are transgender or teachers with same sex partners, it is useful for children see their lives and experiences reflected in books they read.
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Ann Parzick thanked the Library staff and the Board for everything they’ve done through the years in helping her family and providing excellent resources and material to read. She agrees that parents should each have the right to make reading choices for what best suits
their own needs. Ms. Parzick respects the education and expertise of Library staff. The books in question may help children feel that they are understood, and possibly by way of knowing other kids may have gone through what they are experiencing.
Thomas Courtney, Newport Beach resident, commented that he believes it is the parents’ right to choose the material their child reads; the books should not be removed.
Portia Fisher commented that she is an avid reader and believes that while parents should have the right to make the choice of what their child(ren) read, there are also books that should not be accessible to children to read. If it’s a book that is controversial, it could be kept in the adult section of the Library for a parent to check out. Henry Courtney, Newport Beach resident and student, commented that most of his student life was spent inside of the Library. He thanked them for keeping the Libraries in such great shape and stated that what people read doesn’t change who people are. Melissa Forester, Corona del Mar resident, acknowledged that family values are
important, however there are many different types of families. Many years ago, people would hide their lifestyle choices because society stated it wasn’t appropriate; this is no longer the case. In her experience, trans children have a very difficult time during
childhood, and having books that represent all children is extremely important. She also trusts in the City’s highly educated librarians to oversee the evaluation process.
Secretary Lauren Kramer thanked everyone for sharing their thoughts, there is a collection development policy that allows for an appeal. This process was created for transparency and to allow everyone to understand what forms are being submitted. She suggested that information on how to appeal a book review be included when responding in an evaluation review decision response, and comments and responses should not be provided until an appeal has been submitted. Trustee Antonella Castro agreed with Secretary Kramer, she would like to see the appeal process included in the responses should the person who submitted the request have further questions or want to appeal the decision. She thanked the community for their comments, and stated that it is important to hear from everyone as the policies that guide
the Library staff are developed. Trustee Castro also thanked staff for the responses and providing the opportunity for the dialogue on this topic. Her hope is the Board can find common ground with the policy.
Vice Chair Dorothy Larson appreciated everyone’s participation and taking an interest in this important subject. It is important that the community feel free to speak out and the
Board is hearing each person. This is a relatively new situation as more objections are expressed regarding children’s literature. An appeal process is being developed that is more fine tuned than what has been available in the past. Chair Watkins has a long history of visiting the Pasadena City Library and seven and a half years being a Trustee on the Board. His recollection is that prior to him becoming a Board Member, there was only one challenge to a book by way of a patron’s request for
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an evaluation of resources, in 2004. There are now many more and it’s coming by way of an environment that is sweeping the country requesting book bans, along with the right to read, and age appropriateness. The collection development process isn’t new; however,
it’s been significantly revised recently. The Board of Library Trustees are trying to stay ahead of the game, and have been discussing the issue since March, while also revising the policy. It’s a work in progress. His suggestion is that the Board, subcommittee, and
staff involve the City Attorney’s office to find out if there is a form already being used for an appeal. His hope is that they have more answers in time for the December 11 meeting. Beyond that date, there should be a special meeting in January for both sides to bring
forth their views for resolution, which is what the current policy states, that there should be a resolution. There are 30,000 children’s books published each year, and that doesn’t include the self-published ones. There are 600,000 to 1 million published per year that do not qualify as children’s literature. The librarians are trained and have advanced degrees and have been charged with using the resources available to them to make the best decision they can. Hopefully, in December there will be a process in place to appeal that decision if patron’s feel it’s needed. Chair Watkins stated the subcommittee that was in place for the collection development policy could remain in place through the appeal policy changes. The Board will have the final vote. Vice Chair Larson stated she likes the suggestion but still believes all of the
communications being sent to patrons from this point forward should inform people they have the right to appeal, even though that process has not yet been determined. Additionally, all of the current requests should be sent another communication informing
them they have the right to appeal. Patrons can then let the Library Services Director know of their intent to appeal and it should be scheduled for the next Board meeting.
Chair Watkins responded that he agrees with the additional communication, and the Board can move towards that goal; however, he isn’t yet sure if everything will be in place for the December meeting, as he suspects a public hearing will likely be warranted and may fall under the need for a special meeting. Vice Chair Larson suggested the communication include that patrons have the right to an appeal, subject to the input they receive from Assistant City Attorney Yolanda Summerhill regarding the appeal process, and that could happen as early as December 11, but may need to be deferred. Chair Watkins clarified for Library Services Director Hartson that the direction to staff is to
have another brief communication with those that have already received decision notifications, that an appeal process will be made available to them once it has been finalized.
VI. CURRENT BUSINESS A. Items for Review 7. Library Lecture hall Policy (NBPL 15)
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees continue the review of Library Policy NBPL 15, Library Lecture Hall, to a future date in the next calendar year after the Library Lecture Hall project bid is accepted and the construction contract is awarded.
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Library Services Director Melissa Hartson reported on the Library Lecture Hall Policy (NBPL 15) that was developed two years ago is up for additional review. The policy is
attached to the staff report and establishes the procedures for booking the hall, renting the hall, and its uses. Staff does not recommend making any changes at this time because the Library Lecture Hall project has not yet been approved by City Council. The project
was presented with an update at their November 14, 2023 meeting on where the project currently stands, and staff was directed by City Council to move forward, which will involve an amendment of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City and the
Foundation; it is currently scheduled to return to City Council at their January 9, 2024 meeting. City Council will appoint a subcommittee on November 28 to work on the MOU going forward. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments. Jim Mosher, Newport Beach resident, commented that the Board is the policy making body for the Library, and although City Council requests to review the policies before they are adopted, they do not have they power or right to change the policy. Motion made by Secretary Kramer, seconded by Vice Chair Larson, and carried (4-0-0-
0) to defer the consideration of the Library Lecture Hall Policy. AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro
NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES:
8. Consideration for Children’s Collection Development Policy Staff recommends forming an ad hoc subcommittee to consider amending Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy, or creating a separate Children’s Collection Development Policy, to address guidelines for Children’s materials selection and bringing its recommendations to the Board of Library Trustees for approval. Trustee Antonella Castro reported she met with staff, and together they recommend that the ad hoc subcommittee continue while the policy is still being resolved regarding the Children’s Collection Development. She has also visited neighboring libraries to view how
they solve the challenges of placing more sensitive materials. Secretary Kramer stated she is not available to serve on the ad hoc, however she supports
the consideration. Vice Chair Larson added she supports Trustee Castro’s recommendation to further
explore the policy review and involve Assistant City Attorney Summerhill. Chair Watkins appointed Trustee Castro and Vice Chair Larson to serve on the ad hoc subcommittee. It is not subject to notice or posting of the meeting. Its defined purpose is to determine whether the Children’s Collection Development Policy is necessary and if that policy should be separated or folded into the current Collection Development policy.
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The defined time frame of the ad hoc is until the January 2024 meeting. It is for advisory and will return to the full Board with a recommendation and draft language.
Chair Watkins opened the item for public comment. Haley Jenkins commented that she thinks it’s a great idea to create a separate policy for
children and should include that decisions are based on excerpts of content, and not on the material as a whole. Huntington Beach is still making the material available; it just has to be requested. That could be an option for Newport Beach.
Bill Dunlap commented that it’s not about banning books, rather age appropriateness. The level of maturity requirements should be elevated for access to the material. He would recommend that there be a couple of citizen patrons included on the ad hoc subcommittee. Jim Mosher commented that ad hoc subcommittees are not required to notify public participation. He believes they will find that a standalone children’s development policy is extremely rare and their process for resolution is quite similar to those that are not standalone. The reason it’s generally folded into the existing policy is because the library details all of the collections that they have and the criteria they use for each. Newport Beach is different in that there are several library branches, and their collection
development emphasis may be different for each branch based on their patrons use. That should also be considered with the policy revisions.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 9. Grant Acceptance from California Library Literacy Services
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the acceptance of a grant from California Library Literacy Services to support the Newport Beach Public Library’s Project Adult Literacy program. Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot reported on the $46,594 grant from California Library Literacy Services to support the Newport Beach Public Library’s Project Adult Literacy program. It will be used to pay staff for the multiple programs for their adult literacy program. Trustee Antonella Castro inquired if the grant had any conditions of receipt built in.
Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot explained the grant is allowed to be spent on certain things, staffing is one of them. A certain amount must be spent prior to receipt of the remainder of the grant. The amount listed is 90% of the grant. It’s based on a formula
of how many program attendees and learners are in the program. Motion made by Trustee Antonella Castro, seconded by Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, and
carried (4-0-0-0) to approve the acceptance of a grant from California Library Literacy Services to support the Newport Beach Public Library’s Project Adult Literacy program. AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES:
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10. Newport Beach Public Library Foundation Wish List
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees approve the wish list request for funding from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation.
Library Services Director Melissa Hartson reported that staff is recommending the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the acceptance of the wish list request to the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. For Giving Tuesday, the Library has asked the
Foundation to fund a new seed library startup program at the Mariners Branch. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments. Jim Mosher believes the seed library is a great idea, and if they are interested in gardening volunteers to help, he would be interested. Motion made by Secretary Lauren Kramer, seconded by Trustee Antonella Castro, and carried (4-0-0-0) to approve the wish list request for funding from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation in the amount of $5,000.
AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENCES: 11. Lecture Hall Update
Library Services Director Melissa Hartson reported she updated the Board where the project currently stands during the policy report for the Library Lecture Hall. Chair Watkins filed and received the report. 12. Balboa Branch Replacement Update Vice Chair Larson reported they met with Public Works and COAR, a design firm working on the Balboa Branch replacement, who were given specific guidelines to return with additional ideas.
Chair Watkins stated they are scheduled to return on Monday, December 11, 2023 with elevations and aesthetics prior to going out for public outreach.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 13. Library Services Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons, and staff Library Services Director Hartson reported that she spoke at the fall 2023 class of the Newport Beach Foundation’s Distinguished Citizen Program. The program is designed to teach participants about the key components that form the foundation of Newport Beach. Her presentation focused on a high-level overview of the Library, including the Cultural
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Arts Division, and their mission and role in serving the community. Councilmember Lauren Kleiman reached out to staff asking for their help for an article in the November 2023 magazine issue of Greet Corona del Mar regarding Beyond Books, featuring the eBranch,
programs for all ages, unique collections to check out, Project Adult Literacy and other various opportunities to connect and engage with the Library beyond books. The article is included at the end of this month’s activities report. The next Board of Library Trustee
meeting will be on Monday December 11, at 5:00 p.m. at the Central Library. Vice Chair Larson added the December meeting will be rescheduled to 4:30 p.m. instead
of 5:00 p.m., if there are no objections. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Monthly Reports 14. Library Foundation Liaison Reports A. Library Foundation Board Report on the most recently attended meeting. Chair Watkins reported that NBPL Foundation C.E.O. Jerry Kappel’s report dated November 15 is attached to the Agenda Packet. Library Live speaker Lisa See and Steve Lopez both sold out. Michael Scott Moore has sold 175 seats and Tess Gunty has sold
150 seats. There are 236 season passes sold for the Witte Lecture series, which represents 60% of the “house”. There are currently 170 registrations for Spotlight on Science. The Foundation’s estate-giving program for the Elizabeth and John Stahr Legacy
Society during National Estate Planning Awareness Week has been kicked off and involves FreeWill service. Bookmark is scheduled for a November issue date. City Council had a study session on November 14 to move forward with the Library Lecture Hall as designed and not reject the bids. The City has changed its focus for NBTV and has alerted the Foundation it will no longer be broadcasting Medicine in Our Backyard; however, the City Public Affairs Officer John Pope has agreed to continue the broadcast through the end of the year. The Foundation will budget video recording and possibly live streaming of the program for next season. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Library Live Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting.
Vice Chair Larson stated there was nothing new to report. Chair Watkins received and filed the report.
C. Witte Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting. Vice Chair Larson reported that the Witte Committee continues to meet and talk about the potential speakers for the 2024-25 season. They are also looking into what topics will be of particular interest to the community.
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Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 15. Friends of the Library Liaison Report
Trustee update on the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Chair Watkins reported there are 59 new members and 36 renewals for a total of 909 members of the Friends of the Library. Net income for October was about $20,000 dollars.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 16. Literacy Services Liaison Report Trustee update of the most recently attended Literacy Services Advisory Board. Trustee Castro stated there is no report for this month. Chair Watkins stated there was a meeting of the Advisory Board on Tuesday November 14 via Zoom. They will continue to meet and there is a potluck scheduled for December 3, 2023. It’s a great organization and anyone interested in tutoring it is very worthwhile. VII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Jim Mosher, Newport Beach resident, commented that with all of the comments about
what’s wrong with the Library and what’s being offered, the Board finds a way to receive more positive comments as well about their collection. There are several new Board Members who are probably still trying to figure out what the Board is supposed to do,
resources are available for clarification. When he was looking at collection development policies at other libraries, he found that the one at the Monterey Public Library, the oldest library in California with roots going back to the 1800’s, has a mission statement which
this Board does not, many policies that Newport Beach doesn’t have, and their policies provide staff with much more detailed direction. Their Collection Development Policy is 27 pages long. They may be a good resource. They hold their meetings in their Council Chambers, so they are televised monthly. The lack of public communication for this Board is troubling. The Board may consider why that is. Chair Watkins stated there are By-Laws and there is a Mission Statement however it may not be in the Charter, it may be in the By-Laws. VIII. BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM) Chair Watkins took a straw poll to begin the December meeting at 4:30 p.m., all trustees
accepted the change. IX. ADJOURNMENT – 6:24 p.m.
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NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTSNOVEMBER 2023Comment # CommentResponseDate ReceivedSource of CommentStaff MemberStaff Member TitleDate Responded to Patron 111/02/2023Comment CardAnnika HelmuthBranch & Youth Services Coordinator11/02/2023211/05/2023EmailRebecca LightfootLibrary Services Manager11/06/2023311/12/2023EmailAnnika HelmuthBranch & Youth Services Coordinator11/15/2023411/13/2023Comment CardErin SpiveyAdult Services Coordinator11/13/2023511/14/2023EmailMelissa HartsonLibrary Services Director11/14/2023Please consider another subscription to Financial Times newspaper at the Balboa Branch.Thank you for submitting a comment card at the Newport Beach Public Library. We appreciate your time and value your feedback. With the Balboa Branch due to be replaced, we will discuss the feasibility of adding a Financial Times subscription at the Balboa Branch as we look towards the replacement project. In the meantime, the Library subscribes to a database called ProQuest. Financial Times is available through ProQuest. You can access ProQuest from home with your library card using the Library's website Databases page, under “Magazines and Newspapers”... Once you log into ProQuest, click on “Publications” and in the search bar, type “Financial Times” (in quotations) and then click on search. This should bring you to the latest available issue of Financial Times. You can then choose an issue to view dating back to 1996. If you have any problems logging in or have any further questions, please let me know. Thanks again and have a great evening.I thought I should let you know that my dad recently passed away. He was an regular, enthusiastic patron of the library, and enjoyed the people there very much. Going to the library was one of his true joys in life…On behalf of the Library, I send my sincerest condolences to you and your family. I appreciate that he conveyed his enthusiasm for the Library as he was a very regular patron that staff knew and enjoyed serving. I wish you comfort during this time and may your fondest memories carry you through these days.How could one go about proposing the development of an Angel Garden or Fairy Garden for the kids of this beautiful library. It would be modeled after the Fairy Garden at the Laguna Beach City Public Library. Children interacting with nature enhances their creativity and brain development! Thank you for your email. We value your feedback and appreciate the opportunity to improve our services whenever we can. The Butterfly and Fairy Garden at the Laguna Beach Library is beautiful and an interesting idea to consider. As we look towards replacement of the Balboa Branch, we will discuss the logistics and feasibility of adding something similar. In the meantime, the Central Library offers a Sun & Sea Discovery Garden for children and their caregivers. The garden is beautifully planted, offers shade and seating, and is complete with a calming fountain and a meandering trail that sparks curiosity and exploration. We hope you'll visit!I am currently a student at UCI interested in working for a library in the future. One of my fellow classmates let me know of an apprenticeship program that you offer, but I could not find more information about it on your website. Could I please have more information about this program?Thank you for your interest in interning at the library! The internship program is run by the City. You can find more information and instructions on how to apply here on their website... I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions.My wife and I are college students. We enjoy studying, relaxing, and attending events all here at Newport Beach Library. We definitely enjoy any type of medical talk, A.I., nature, and art. We would really like to check out table-top/board games at the library. As students, we love to take breaks that continue to engage our minds, so games like Villainous, Onitama!, Catan, and Clue would be fantastic. Brain teasers/puzzles too!Thank you for taking the time to complete a customer service review. We are so pleased to hear that you enjoy our library and all our programming. There are a few more adult programs going on this month, but we’ll be picking up again in 2024 with a robust slate of amazing topics. Thank you for your suggestion of adding table-top games to our collection. That is something many public libraries are doing around the country, including Orange County Public Libraries (OCPL). You can view their collection of table-top games here... Thank you once again, as we love to hear new ideas and how we can improve our collection.15
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTSNOVEMBER 2023Comment # CommentResponseDate ReceivedSource of CommentStaff MemberStaff Member TitleDate Responded to Patron 611/15/2023EmailRebecca LightfootLibrary Services Manager11/15/2023711/15/2023EmailAndy KachaturianCirc. & Tech. Processing Coordinator11/16/2023811/16/2023EmailAnnika HelmuthBranch & Youth Services Coordinator11/16/2023911/17/2023EmailAndy KachaturianCirc. & Tech. Processing Coordinator11/17/20231011/22/2023Greeting CardAllison SarnowskiAdministrative Support Technician11/27/2023I have a temporary card, and I am headed to Thailand tomorrow morning. I am unable to stop by the library to get my permanent card. Is there anything I can do to get the card? Thanks so much.Unfortunately, we do require patrons to first physically visit the library to receive a permanent library card. We do need to see a valid photo ID and proof of address, and cannot accept a digital form. I hope you are able to enjoy what sounds like an amazing trip to Thailand, and that we can help you in person upon your return. If there is any information we can help provide in the meantime, please do reach out and we would be happy to help. Have a safe trip!I recently visited the Newport Beach Public Library (Mariners branch) to take advantage of the services that institution has to offer. I was pleasantly surprised to find a clean and quiet bibliotheca with courteous staff and sizeable working stations which make it an ideal place to study and work. I really like those stations where I can display in privacy my work documents and my computer with the view on the Public Garden. That public library is so welcoming and I enjoy every moment. As a request, it would be nice if you could add one or two sanitizing stations for the public, conveniently located in order to wipe our stations before using it.Thank you for your email and taking the time to share your thoughts with us about the Mariners Branch Library. I appreciate your kind words regarding the staff and pleasant environment you experienced. I will be sure to pass along your sentiments to our staff. I also value your feedback regarding sanitizing stations. We continue to offer sanitizing stations at a few points throughout the Mariners Branch Library. Additionally, hand sanitizing wipes are available for purchase at the Reference desk if you would like one. If you notice that a workstation is dirty, please alert staff so we can clean it, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions or concerns.I am writing a paper for my college on what integrated system libraries use, and I was wondering what integrated system Newport Beach Public Library uses, and if it has been beneficial... Thank you!Sure, we are happy to help. We migrated to Symphony from SirsiDynix’ in 2020. Our previous ILS was Millennium from Innovative Interfaces, which had reached end of support. Some of the features that have been exciting enhancements to the public are a fresh updated look and feel to the catalog, the availability of text message notifications, and an automated renewal system. On the backend, Symphony allows us to automate many time-consuming reports, offers integration with many vendors, and provides a high level of technical support and consulting. If you need more detailed information or have any additional questions, please feel free to respond and we can discuss at more length. Good luck with your paper!I was wondering if this library accepts book donations. Our company is downsizing, and we have acquired many books throughout the years. We are a landscape architect company. Most of the books are categorized within landscape, architecture, interior and graphic design. Please let me know. Thank you.The Friends of the Library accept book donations on the Library’s behalf. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., but you may drop donations off at any time and at any location. If you would like to make an appointment for a larger donation drop off, please call the Friends at 949-759-9667. Thank you.With appreciation for facilitating the scheduling of our Monday evening Toastmasters meetings in the Sword Meeting Room. Happy Thanksgiving!... Thank you for your many kind words and again for the long legacy of assistance that you and your colleagues have provided our group. All best wishes.Thank you so much for the beautiful card and delicious candy. We appreciate your thoughtfulness very much. Hope you had a happy Thanksgiving holiday weekend.16
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTSNOVEMBER 2023Comment # CommentResponseDate ReceivedSource of CommentStaff MemberStaff Member TitleDate Responded to Patron 1111/27/2023EmailRosemary HammockReference Librarian11/27/20231211/29/2023Comment CardAnnika HelmuthBranch & Youth Services Coordinator11/30/2023Can DVDs be checked out by mail and returned by mail?Thank you for your interest in receiving/returning library materials by mail. Although we don’t have a current method to mail library materials to you, I wanted to take a moment to share some information with you about one of our Library Services that may be of interest to you. The Newport Beach Public Library offers a free Homebound Delivery Service to our patrons, which allows you to receive library materials, from books to CDs to DVDs. Any patrons who are unable to physically come into one of our four branches due to temporary or long-term mobility, health or disability barriers can qualify. Once enrolled in this service, we will pair you with a volunteer who will deliver any library materials you request and return them on your behalf. If you are interested in these services, we have a couple of forms that need to be filled out. I have attached them to this email for you. However, if you’re not able to print these out at home, we can mail them to you or have them delivered by a volunteer. More information on this service is available at this link... I’ll be happy to talk to you more about this service. You can reach me by replying to this email or calling me at 949-717-3821. Thank you.I like everything about the Newport Beach Public Library! The activities for kids are amazing. It would be so great to do the dinosaur activity once a week on winter break.Thank you for taking the time to fill out a comment card at the Central Library. We are grateful for your kind feedback on Children's programs, and we appreciate the recommendation to offer more dinosaur programs like the recent Dino Party. The Balboa Branch Library is offering a similar Dinosaur Mania craft program on January 17, and the Youth Services team will look for opportunities to offer more dinosaur programs in the future.17
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CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
December 11, 2023
Agenda Item No. 4
MELISSA HARTSON, LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Friends Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon
The Friends of the Library hosted a luncheon to celebrate the over 80 dedicated volunteers who work in
the Bookstore, price materials and those who setup, work, and breakdown their Used Book Sales events.
Twenty-four volunteers cover the Bookstore shifts every week and they have two to four weekly
volunteers pricing items and several hands-on deck during the two-day Used Book Sales. In addition, the
Friends of the Library Board members put in countless hours to oversee and contribute to the
organization’s success. During the luncheon, the Friends of the Library Board recognized milestone years
of service with four volunteers celebrating 5 years of service, three for 10 years, and three for 15 years.
The current 82 volunteers have 706 collective years of service with the addition of seven new volunteers
this past year. The Library is grateful to the Friends for its remarkable commitment from its volunteers!
WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES
•Library Holiday Hours
Sunday, December 24 and Monday, December 25
Sunday, December 31 and Monday, January 1
All Locations closed
December 26 through December 30
All locations close at 6 p.m.
•Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Tuesday, January 16, 5 p.m.
Venue TBD
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
TITLE: Report of November Library Activities – December 11, 2023 Meeting
36
Report of November Library Activities
December 11, 2023
Page 2
REBECCA LIGHTFOOT, LIBRARY SERVICES MANAGER
Literacy
In November, 13 tutors and volunteers gathered in the Friends Room for Project Adult Literacy’s quarterly
workshop, Tutor Connection. Literacy Services Coordinator Gabriela Leman facilitated icebreakers and
group discussion so that tutors could become better acquainted with each other and share each other’s
successes and challenges in the program. Tutors had an opportunity to receive feedback from peers and
from Gabriela. There was an excellent representation of volunteer experience, as their range of volunteer
service was one year to ten years. A survey was sent to attendees afterwards and received positive
feedback.
Programming
In November, the Library presented Elixir Piano Trio (violin, cello, piano) to a record-breaking crowd of
over 240 attendees. Thankfully, it was a beautiful day, and we were able to accommodate the large
number by opening the doors to the Bamboo Courtyard. The performance was outstanding, and they
received a standing ovation.
Mobile App
Unfortunately, the Library’s Integrated Library Systems (ILS) vendor, SirsiDynix, was unable to reach an
agreement with their third-party app vendor, Solus. As a result, Solus has disabled the Library’s mobile
app, rendering it inoperable. SirsiDynix is working on developing an entirely new, next-generation mobile
app. City IT is working with Library staff to determine the best path going forward.
ANNIKA HELMUTH, BRANCH AND YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR
Branch Activities
The branches each offered seasonally themed programs in November. Mariners Branch (Mariners) hosted
a successful Thanksgiving Crafts event in the children’s room. At Balboa Branch, a Feast of Fall Crafts
offered participants three crafts based on the flavors of Fall. And at Corona del Mar Branch (CdM), patrons
enjoyed drop-in crafts, a scavenger hunt, and BARK, a read to a dog program. Storytimes remain popular
as do monthly programs such as the LEGO Block Party at Mariners and Sensory Play at CdM.
Mariners staff completed a large collection maintenance project that brought the consolidation of the
magazine section to allow for more shelving for the high demand visual media collection.
Two vacancies opened at Mariners following the resignation of a part-time Library Page and part-time
Library Assistant. Recruitment for these vacancies is ongoing.
Youth Services
Read-Alongs, children’s books equipped with a ready-to-play audiobook, were added to the collection in
November. Great for burgeoning readers, each Read-Along includes a speaker, headphone jack, and page
navigation.
Each year, Eastbluff Elementary School’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) display student art in the
Children’s Room at the Central Library as part of the national PTA art program, Reflections. This year’s theme
was “I am Hopeful Because….” and winning art pieces were on display November 6 – November 20.
37
Report of November Library Activities
December 11, 2023
Page 3
Programs
Youth Services now reports total participation in Stay and Play activities monthly. Stay and Play offers
patrons meaningful open-ended play opportunities that support early literacy development, create a
sense of community, and build caregiver-child relationships. Recently, we had a patron creatively use
magna-tiles and treehouse imagination builders to build an impressive metropolis—a future city-planner
in the making. While Stay and Play is not a new program, a method for tracking participation is. The new
data gives staff a quantitative framework for on-going maintenance and needs of the program.
After school programs, including Crafternoon, Makerspace, Coding for Kids, and Family Game Day
continue to build a steady following. Several Crafternoon “gratitude pumpkins” mentioned the “lyberry”
as something they were grateful for. November's Middle Grade Book Club meeting included a discussion
of “Book Scavenger” by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman. All attendees unanimously liked the November
selection. At the end of their meeting, several caregivers shared how their kids or grandkids really enjoyed
and even increased their reading because of the ability to join with others to discuss the book. A Dino
Party at the end of the month was “dino-mite” with an on-theme storytime, games and activities, and a
room full of dinosaur outfits including one teen volunteer dressed up in an inflatable T-Rex costume.
Patrons were expressly thankful for this special program.
Class Visits
Eastbluff Elementary School’s first grade students visited CdM on November 7. The classes took a tour of
the library, learned about the collections and programs, and then enjoyed a story. The classes also visited
Fire Station 5 and had a fun tour of the station and learned about fire safety.
At the end of the month, Newport Heights first grade students visited the Central Library. Seventy-one
students enjoyed an interactive story, a tour of the children’s room and a behind the scenes view of the
book drop.
Outreach
Eastbluff Elementary invited library staff to speak at their English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC)
which is a meeting held four times a year for parents of English language learners to learn more about the
resources available for their families. Library staff spoke about how to get a library card, gave an overview
of each library location, and discussed children's programming. We look forward to future opportunities
to visit with ELAC families.
Training
Library Assistant Victoria Freshwater completed Foundations of Library Services, a 6-week asynchronous
Library Support Staff Certificated (LSSC) course. Children’s Librarian Christine Lefter completed two online
trainings, Library Management: Making Libraries Great Places to Visit and Great Places to Work and
Library Programs for Homeschoolers. CdM Branch Librarian Nadia Dallstream attended the City’s
Communicating with Tact and Professionalism and CdM Library Clerk Daisy Hernandez completed an
impressive 16 Vulnerable Populations courses through the Niche Academy. Finally, Branch and Youth
Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth attended Foundations of Mentoring, a California Libraries Learn
(CALL) webinar.
38
Report of November Library Activities
December 11, 2023
Page 4
ANDREW KACHATURIAN, CIRCULATION AND TECHNICAL PROCESSING COORDINATOR
Staffing
There are currently four vacant part-time Library Clerk positions and three Library Page positions. Library
Clerk interviews are scheduled for early December and Library Page interviews are scheduled to begin in
January.
Facilities
Routine maintenance was performed on HVAC equipment at both the Central Library and Mariners
Branch. Repairs and preventative maintenance were completed on the Central Library upper entry doors.
A gas line was repaired with the assistance of Public Works at Mariners Branch.
Passports
Annual Passport Acceptance Agent certification began in November. There are 14 Passport Acceptance
Agents for our facility, and several have already completed their annual training.
ERIN SPIVEY, ADULT SERVICES COORDINATOR
Outreach
Librarian Jeremy Rodriguez and Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey participated in a community
resources fair at the Mariposa Villa Co-Op Apartments. This community provides services to adults with
disabilities, as well as low-income seniors. During the two hours of outreach, Jeremy and Erin signed up
nine new library patrons and provided information to an additional 20 residents.
Teens
Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) met on November 9. Library Assistant Danielle Yang led the meeting
of 15 teens, assisted by part-time Library Assistant Anne-Marie Angeloff. During the meeting, attendees
participated in A Holidays for Heroes Holiday card making service project. In partnership with the Red
Cross, these holiday cards will be mailed to our contact at Orange County Red Cross, Amy Diaz, and will
eventually be delivered to military units, family groups, the VA, and military organizations overseas.
Training
Librarian Laurie Sanders attended Ryan Dowd webinar, “How to Manage Problematic Behavior,” the Ryan
Dowd conversation with Stephanie Weber on suicide, as well as several trainings on adult library services.
Part-time Library Assistant Ariel Shrader completed the Ryan Dowd core trainings on working with
challenging patrons.
Library Assistant Chris Hennigan completed several trainings on working with homeless patrons in the
library.
Erin Spivey attended several workshops on library management and patron services. Through a training
on working with print disabled patrons, Erin was informed of several valuable resources that have already
been shared with NBPL patrons.
39
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2024 2024 2024 2024 2024 2024
Tracked by #searches
A to Z Databases 1740 1695 1229 2435 1137 8236
Ancestry 976 937 881 451 789 4034
AskART 55 22 71 17 18 183
Brainfuse JobNow/VetNow 82 48 43 21 37 231
Britannica School Edition 23 4 126 613 50 816
Exploring Race in Society 2 0 14 7 2 25
Gale Archives Unbound 1977 7446 1971 2410 7450 21254
Gale Directory Library 17 2 0 77 9 105
Gale in Context: Biography 9 7 21 64 18 119
Gale in Context: Elementary 10 23 10 30 12 85
Gale in Context: Environmental ***12 21 33
Gale in Context: Opposing View 8 1 33 54 1078 1174
Gale Interactive: Science ***1 0 1
Gale Literature Resource Center 8 2 14 53 15 92
Gale Virtual Reference Library 46 28 12 33 209 328
HeritageQuest 224 241 140 92 233 930
Legal Information Ref Center 72 65 25 28 33 223
National Geographic 24 14 62 38 28 166
National Geographic Kids 23 13 45 53 21 155
NewsBank 1292 1211 1634 1190 1092 6419
NoveList Plus 48 84 37 423 225 817
NoveList K-8 Plus 22 44 22 72 36 196
ProQuest 2587 2605 2748 3262 3259 14461
Proquest eLibrary 2 4 1 7 1 15
Reference Solutions Business 1883 614 389 481 337 3704
Reference Solutions Residential 91 32 34 866 19 1042
SIRS Discoverer 0 3 15 260 454 732
SIRS Issues Researcher 192 3 4 675 2331 3205
World Book Online 4 8 99 225 49 385
Tracked by #page views
Artist Works 4 3 3 1 6 17
Consumer Reports 3496 2508 2216 2099 **10319
CultureGrams 26 45 22 224 30 347
Morningstar 5899 5543 3825 4267 4883 24417
RealQuest 11 0 403 5 2 421
Tumblebooks 12 24 16 89 19 160
Value Line 13295 11823 13609 15082 16193 70002
Tracked by courses
LinkedIn Learning 349 190 200 235 162 1136
Tracked by books logged
Beanstack 10374 4111 3584 3762 3903 25734
Tracked by Hours Used
ABC Mouse 27.68 30.40 18.77 20.53 25.83 123.21
Beanstack 4603 199 103 153 142 5200
Rosetta Stone 16.12 47.18 23.15 37.60 24.80 148.85
Notes:
* Began October 2023
** Information unavailable. Will add when received.
Database FY Comparisons YTD 23/24
Proquest Articles Retrieved 2023-2024
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun AVG.
Business Databases 1322 943 1235 1568 1498 1313
Newspapers--Current 656 1022 919 941 580 824
Newspapers--Historical 1966 3410 1962 2116 2144 2320
Magazines 19 22 12 36 49 28
40
NBPL Website Usage 2023-24
Metric Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Total Users 23559 23192 20322 20852 19689 21523 107614
New Users 22806 22634 19381 19876 18796 20699 103493
Sessions 44852 41809 38321 39420 36151 40111 200553
Pageviews 97997 72390 67543 67569 62349 73570 367848
Sessions Per User 2 2 2 2 2 2 --
Pages Per Session 2 2 2 2 2 2 --
Avg. Session Dur. (min)3 3 3 3 3 3 --
Bounce Rate (%)54 58 56 58 57 56 --
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Total Data Transferred (GB) 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 240 157 342 257 478 295 1474
CdM 220 242 144 153 108 173 867
Mariners 1710 1500 1660 1900 1830 1720 8600
Central 11410 12170 12450 11900 10690 11724 58620
Total 13580 14069 14596 14210 13106 13912 69561
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Total Unique Patrons 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 518 445 401 377 331 414 2072
CdM 470 449 392 409 330 410 2050
Mariners 1575 1578 1679 1789 1541 1632 8162
Central 8775 9524 9451 9593 8811 9231 46154
Total 11338 11996 11923 12168 11013 11688 58438
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Average Number of Patrons Per Day 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 44 41 40 37 33 39 195
CdM 30 30 26 25 21 26 132
Mariners 124 125 139 151 128 133 667
Central 654 661 651 684 604 651 3254
Total 852 857 856 897 786 850 4248
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Average Usage Per Patron (MB) 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 474 361 874 698 1440 769 3847
CdM 480 552 376 382 336 425 2126
Mariners 1110 999 1010 1090 1210 1084 5419
Central 1330 1310 1350 1270 1240 1300 6500
Total 3394 3222 3610 3440 4226 3578 17892
41
NOV 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 2,100 11,268 13,951
CdM 3,549 19,128 15,716
MARINERS 20,764 109,368 107,040
CENTRAL 49,767 272,980 287,739
eBooks 7,176 38,613 36,117
eMagazines 6,269 18,683 10,187
eAudiobooks 6,110 31,418 29,490
Streaming Films 3,115 7,972 3,538
TOTAL 98,850 509,430 503,778
DEC 22 90,480
JAN 23 97,351
FEB 23 89,534
MAR 23 102,817
APR 23 94,662
MAY 23 96,156
JUN 23 98,173
JUL 23 104,890
AUG 23 102,859
SEP 23 100,092
OCT 23 102,739
NOV 23 98,850
TOTAL 1,178,603
12 Month Comparison
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - NOVEMBER 2023
CIRCULATION
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
eBooks
eMagazines
eAudiobooks
Streaming Films
85,000
90,000
95,000
100,000
105,000
110,000
DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23
1,598,265
1,610,818
1,529,391
1,464,640
1,424,594
1,376,041
1,084,526
1,043,629
1,195,151 1,172,951
1,000,000
1,125,000
1,250,000
1,375,000
1,500,000
1,625,000
1,750,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
CIRCULATION
42
NOV 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 324 1,948 1,761
CdM 356 3,021 3,516
MARINERS 1,827 10,192 9,073
CENTRAL 5,877 32,591 30,997
TOTAL 8,384 47,752 45,347
12 Month Comparison
DEC 22 7,081
JAN 23 8,577
FEB 23 8,486
MAR 23 10,508
APR 23 8,626
MAY 23 8,917
JUN 23 10,700
JUL 23 10,933
AUG 23 10,069
SEP 23 9,437
OCT 23 8,929
NOV 23 8,384
TOTAL 110,647
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - NOVEMBER 2023
REFERENCE
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
6,500
7,500
8,500
9,500
10,500
11,500
DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23
190,391
168,496
162,510
157,149
156,521
163,392
131,445
78,088
105,958
108,242
70,000
90,000
110,000
130,000
150,000
170,000
190,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
REFERENCE
43
NOV 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 1,996 10,466 10,674
CdM 2,517 15,182 12,528
MARINERS 11,572 61,184 56,023
CENTRAL 31,976 184,396 172,536
TOTAL 48,061 271,228 251,761
12 Month Comparison
DEC 22 45,996
JAN 23 50,627
FEB 23 50,358
MAR 23 59,398
APR 23 59,010
MAY 23 53,465
JUN 23 52,680
JUL 23 55,882
AUG 23 56,811
SEP 23 54,320
OCT 23 56,154
NOV 23 48,061
TOTAL 642,762
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - NOVEMBER 2023
PATRONS SERVED
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
40,000
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23
1,399,841
1,256,238 1,209,719
1,102,106
1,158,344
935,953
636,072
145,463
512,178 623,295
100,000
300,000
500,000
700,000
900,000
1,100,000
1,300,000
1,500,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
PATRONS SERVED IN LIBRARY
44
NOV 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 243 979 665
CdM 710 3,678 2,535
MARINERS 1,409 4,838 4,721
CENTRAL 5,086 31,596 28,079
TOTAL 7,448 41,091 36,000
12 Month Comparison
DEC 22 4,915
JAN 23 4,244
FEB 23 5,328
MAR 23 6,022
APR 23 6,001
MAY 23 8,113
JUN 23 7,670
JUL 23 9,541
AUG 23 3,725
SEP 23 9,851
OCT 23 10,526
NOV 23 7,448
TOTAL 83,384
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - NOVEMBER 2023
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23
49,977
64,473
67,646 69,922
70,430
68,241
68,078
52,678
64,397
78,293
45,000
55,000
65,000
75,000
85,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
45
LIBRARY EXPENDITURES FY 2023-24
(December 4, 2023)
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
ORIGINAL
APPROP
REVISED
BUDGET
YTD
EXPENDED
MONTHLY
EXPENDED
AVAILABLE
BUDGET
I SALARY & BENEFITS
SALARY FULL-TIME REGULAR 3,156,337 3,156,337 1,148,860 231,967 2,007,477
SALARY PART-TIME 1,279,860 1,279,860 344,020 71,033 935,840
BENEFITS 2,247,901 2,369,508 894,667 178,853 1,474,840
SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL 6,684,098 6,805,705 2,387,547 481,853 4,418,157
II MAINT & OPERATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*207,488 207,488 56,708 385 150,780
UTILITIES 372,933 372,933 163,327 3,492 209,606
PROGRAMMING 2,000 4,000 2,548 147 1,452
SUPPLIES**82,800 83,146 31,103 4,839 52,043
LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 670,487 459,989 95,968 210,499
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 250,275 260,864 99,035 26,703 161,829
TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 1,094 826 9,587
GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***24,202 25,920 8,526 1,818 17,395
PERIPHERALS & SOFTWARE 5,000 5,000 28 0 4,972
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,693,396 1,693,396 705,582 14,556 987,815
OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 379 379 1,621
MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,320,516 3,335,917 1,528,318 149,112 1,807,599
LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL 10,004,613 10,141,622 3,915,865 630,965 6,225,756
*PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE
**INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES
***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE
46
Previous
Agenda Date AGENDA ITEM Scheduled
Agenda Date
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
Dec 19, 2022 Dec 11, 2023
Dec 11, 2023
Jan 17, 2023 Jan 16, 2024
Feb 21, 2023 Feb 20, 2024
Feb 21, 2023 Feb 20, 2024
Mar 20, 2023 Mar 18, 2024
Apr 17, 2023 Apr 15, 2024
Apr 17, 2023 Apr 15, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
Jun 19, 2023 Jun 17, 2024
Jun 19, 2023 Jun 17, 2024
Jul 17, 2023 Jul 15, 2024
Jul 17, 2023 Jul 15, 2024
Aug 21, 2023 Aug 19, 2024
Aug 21, 2023 Aug 19, 2024
Sep 18, 2023 Sep 16, 2024
Oct 16, 2023 Oct 21, 2024
Oct 16, 2023 Oct 21, 2024
LAST
REVIEWED POLICY REVIEW
Dec 20, 2021 NBPL 10 Laptop Borrowing Policy Dec 11, 2023
Feb 22, 2022 NBPL 3 Library Gift and Donor Policy Feb 20, 2024
Nov 15, 2021 NBPL 15 The Library Lecture Hall Mar 18, 2024
Jul 18, 2022 CC I-1 Library Services Policy (Council Policy I -1)Jul 15, 2024
Sep 19, 2022 NBPL 9 Expressive Use Areas Sep 16, 2024
Nov 21, 2022 NBPL 6 Media Lab Use Policy Nov 18, 2024
Nov 21, 2022 NBPL 7 Sound Lab Use Policy Nov 18, 2024
Jan 17, 2023 NBPL 12 Circulation Policy Jan 21, 2025
Jan 17, 2023 NBPL 5 Internet Use Policy Jan 21, 2025
Jan 17, 2023 NBPL 11 Rules for Acceptable Use of Wireless Internet Connections Jan 21, 2025
Feb 21, 2022 NBPL 8 Display and Distribution of Materials Policy Feb 18, 2025
Apr 17, 2023 NBPL 1 Library Use Policy Apr 21, 2025
Apr 17, 2023 NBPL 13 Study Rooms/Charles Sword Meeting Room Policy Apr 21, 2025
Jun 19, 2023 NBPL 4 Children in the Library Policy Jun 16, 2025
Aug 21, 2023 NBPL 14 The Friends Meeting Room Aug 18, 2025
Oct 16, 2023 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy Oct 20, 2025
Youth Services Update
Election of Board of Library Trustees Officers/Trustee Liaisons
Financial Report Comparison of Beginning Budget to End of the Year Amended Budget
Literacy Program Update
Information Technology Update
Adult and Reference Services Update
Branch Update - Mariners
Newport Beach Public Library eBranch, Database and Downloadable Services Review
Performance Review of Library Services Director (Closed Session)
Policy Review (See List Below)
Review Holidays / Meeting Schedule
December 2023 Regular Meeting Rescheduled
Annual Budget - Approval
Branch Update - Balboa
Library Material Selection
Marketing Update & Social Networking Update
Media Lab Update
Proposed Library Closures for Winter Holidays
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES MONITORING LIST
Lecture Hall Update
Balboa Branch Replacement Update
Annual Budget - Preliminary Review
Branch Update - CDM
Arts & Cultural Update
47
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
December 11, 2023
Agenda Item No. 7
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the proposed “Patron’s Request for Evaluation
of Library Resources: Patron Application for Appeal” form.
DISCUSSION:
The Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee was reinstated at the November 20, 2023, Board of
Library Trustees meeting for the purpose of developing an appeals process associated with any unresolved
concerns regarding the decision rendered for a patron’s request for evaluation of library resources.
Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy (Policy) includes a “Patron’s Request for Evaluation
of Library Resources” form for patrons to complete if they have concerns about a specific title in the
collection. Staff evaluate the title and provide a recommendation to the Library Services Director who
responds with a decision on whether the title will remain in the collection, be moved to another collection,
or withdrawn from the collection. Per the Policy, “any unresolved concerns shall be referred to the Board
of Library Trustees for final resolution.” An appeals application will serve as the means to initiate any
unresolved concerns to the Board of Library Trustees.
The Office of the City Attorney has reviewed the draft appeal application.
NOTICING:
This agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of the meeting at
which the Board of Library Trustees considers the item).
ATTACHMENT A: Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources: Patron Application for Appeal
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
TITLE: Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources – Appeal Application
48
PATRON’S REQUEST FOR EVALUATION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES:
PATRON APPLICATION FOR APPEAL
The Library Services Director will schedule the Patron’s Appeal. The Patron will present their
appeal to the Board of Library Trustees and Library Staff will present its position to the Board of
Library Trustees. Thereafter, and in keeping with the Library’s Collection Development Policy
(NBPL 2), the Board of Library Trustees will provide final resolution of the matter.
Name
Address
City State Zip Phone
Email
Resource on which you are appealing:
Book Audiovisual Resource
Magazine Content of Library Program
Newspaper Other
1.Title
2.Author/Producer
3.Date of Director’s Decision
4.Please briefly explain why you disagree with the Director’s Decision (please attach additional
pages, if necessary):
Please fill out this form in its entirety and return it to the Central Library Administration Office.
Thank you for taking the time to complete this form.
Newport Beach Public Library
Newport Beach, California
Patron Signature
Print Name
Date 12/2023
ATTACHMENT A
49
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
December 11, 2023
Agenda Item No. 8
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees review and accept revisions to Library Policy NBPL
10, Laptop Borrowing.
DISCUSSION:
The Library has circulated laptops to the public since 2004. The laptops also augment the fixed public
computer terminals and help alleviate wait times when demand is high. The Corona del Mar Branch,
because of its size and service model, offers laptops exclusively.
Incidents of damage and theft have been rare. Other public libraries both nationally and regionally have
emulated the Newport Beach Public Library model of providing laptops for use in the Library.
Revisions to the policy are minor: some small capitalization errors and references to other policies have
been addressed as well as updating which desks the laptops must be returned to at each location.
NOTICING:
This agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of the meeting at
which the Board of Library Trustees considers the item).
ATTACHMENT A: Laptop Borrowing Policy (NBPL 10) – original
ATTACHMENT B: Laptop Borrowing Policy (NBPL 10) – red-lined
ATTACHMENT C: Laptop Borrowing Policy (NBPL 10) – final
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager
TITLE: Laptop Borrowing Policy (NBPL 10)
50
1
NBPL 10
Laptop Borrowing Policy
1.Patrons who use circulating Library laptops are subject to the Library’s Internet Use Policy.
2.Laptops can be checked out to current Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) cardholders
whose accounts meet use requirements. These devices are for use within the Library
building.
3.The loan period for laptops is 1 hour. Laptops can be renewed for 20-minute increments
through the CASSIE print and PC management software as long as there is no waiting list.
4.Laptops may be checked out at the reference desk at the Central Library, from the
circulation desk at Balboa branch, and from the reference desks at Mariners and Corona
del Mar branches.
5.Patrons must present a valid NBPL card and be current in the Library's circulation system.
All patrons will be required to provide a valid photo identification that will be held at the
desk where the patron checked out the laptop. Student IDs will be accepted as valid
identification as long as they have a photograph and are current.
6.Patrons are limited to one checkout of a laptop per library cardholder.
7.Laptops will be checked out on a first come, first served basis. Laptops returned late will
be assessed a late fee as set forth in the Library’s Circulation policy.
8.Laptops are due at the Reference Desk at Central or Circulation Desks at the branches 30
minutes before closing.
9.When laptops are checked in, they must be returned with all peripherals.
10.There is a replacement charge for damage or loss of the laptop and/or its peripherals of
up to $1,200.
11.This policy is subject to review and change as authorized by the Board of Library Trustees.
Adopted by the Board of Library Trustees on October 7, 2013.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on January 22, 2019.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on December 20, 2021.
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on December 20, 2021.
ATTACHMENT A
51
1
NBPL 10
Laptop Borrowing Policy
1.Patrons who use circulating Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) laptops are subject to
the Library’s Internet Use Policy (NBPL 5).
2.Laptops can be checked out to current Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) cardholders
whose accounts meet use requirements. These devices are for use within the Library
building.
3.The loan period for laptops is 1 one hour. Laptops can be renewed for 20-minute
increments through the CASSIE print and PC management software as long as there is no
waiting list.
4.Laptops may be checked out at the reference desk at the Central Library, from the
circulation desk at Balboa branchBranch, and from the reference desks at Mariners and
Corona del Mar branchesBranches.
5.Patrons must present a valid NBPL card and be current in the Library's circulation system.
All patrons will be required to provide a valid photo identification that will be held at the
desk where the patron checked out the laptop. Student IDs will be accepted as valid
identification as long as they have a photograph and are current.
6.Patrons are limited to one checkout of a laptop per library Library cardholder.
7.Laptops will be checked out on a first come, first served basis. Laptops returned late will
be assessed a late fee as set forth in the Library’s Circulation policyPolicy (NBPL 12).
8.Laptops are due at the Reference Desks at Central, Mariners, and Corona del Mar or the
Circulation Desks at the branchesBalboa 30 minutes before closing.
9.When laptops are checked in, they must be returned with all peripherals.
10.There is a replacement charge for damage or loss of the laptop and/or its peripherals of
up to $1,200, as set forth in the Circulation Policy (NBPL 12).
11.This policy is subject to review and change as authorized by the Board of Library Trustees.
Adopted by the Board of Library Trustees on October 7, 2013.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on January 22, 2019.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on December 20, 2021.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on December 11, 2023.
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on December 20, 202111, 2023.
ATTACHMENT B
52
1
NBPL 10
Laptop Borrowing Policy
1.Patrons who use circulating Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) laptops are subject to
the Internet Use Policy (NBPL 5).
2.Laptops can be checked out to current NBPL cardholders whose accounts meet use
requirements. These devices are for use within the Library building.
3.The loan period for laptops is one hour. Laptops can be renewed for 20-minute
increments through the PC management software as long as there is no waiting list.
4.Laptops may be checked out at the reference desk at the Central Library, from the
circulation desk at Balboa Branch, and from the reference desks at Mariners and Corona
del Mar Branches.
5.Patrons must present a valid NBPL card and be current in the Library's circulation system.
All patrons will be required to provide a valid photo identification that will be held at the
desk where the patron checked out the laptop. Student IDs will be accepted as valid
identification as long as they have a photograph and are current.
6.Patrons are limited to one checkout of a laptop per Library cardholder.
7.Laptops will be checked out on a first come, first served basis. Laptops returned late will
be assessed a late fee as set forth in the Library’s Circulation Policy (NBPL 12).
8.Laptops are due at the Reference Desks at Central, Mariners, and Corona del Mar or the
Circulation Desk at Balboa 30 minutes before closing.
9.When laptops are checked in, they must be returned with all peripherals.
10.There is a replacement charge for damage or loss of the laptop and/or its peripherals of
up to $1,200, as set forth in the Circulation Policy (NBPL 12).
11.This policy is subject to review and change as authorized by the Board of Library Trustees.
Adopted by the Board of Library Trustees on October 7, 2013.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on January 22, 2019.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on December 20, 2021.
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on December 11, 2023.
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on December 11, 2023.
ATTACHMENT C
53
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
December 11, 2023
Agenda Item No. 9
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees (BLT) review the Library’s holiday and meeting schedule
for 2024 and approve as presented:
BLT MEETING SCHEDULE
HOLIDAY CLOSURES BLT MEETING DATES
New Year’s Day MON, JAN 1
Martin Luther King Day MON, JAN 15 JANUARY 16
Presidents’ Day MON, FEB 19 FEBRUARY 20
Easter SUN, MAR 31 MARCH 18
APRIL 15
Memorial Day MON, MAY 27 MAY 20
JUNE 17
Independence Day THU, JUL 4 JULY 15
AUGUST 19
Labor Day MON, SEP 2 SEPTEMBER 16
OCTOBER 21
Veterans’ Day MON, NOV 11 NOVEMBER 18
Thanksgiving Day THU, NOV 28
Day-After Thanksgiving FRI, NOV 29
Christmas Eve TUE, DEC 24 – ½ Day DECEMBER 16
Christmas Day WED, DEC 25
New Year’s Eve TUE, DEC 31 – ½ Day
DISCUSSION:
Per the Board of Library Trustees By-Laws (Article IV – Meetings) Section 1:
“The regular meetings shall be held on the third Monday of each month commencing at 5:00 p.m. at the
Central Library or at a specified branch library, unless noticed otherwise. In the event the third Monday of
the month is a holiday observed by the City, such regular meeting shall be held on the next business day
commencing at 5:00 p.m. at the Central Library unless noticed otherwise. Special meetings may also be
held subject to compliance with the provisions of the Ralph M. Brown Act.”
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
TITLE: Review Holidays and Meeting Schedule
54
Review Holidays and Meeting Schedule
December 11, 2023
Page 2
Because both the Martin Luther King, Jr. and President’s Day holidays fall on the third Monday of January
and February respectively, the BLT will hold their January and February meetings on the following
Tuesday.
NOTICING:
This agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of the meeting at
which the Board of Library Trustees considers the item).
ATTACHMENT A: 2024 Meeting Schedule
55
Board of Library Trustees
2024 Meeting Schedule
JANUARY 16, 2024** JULY 15, 2024
FEBURARY 20, 2024** AUGUST 19, 2024
MARCH 18, 2024 SEPTEMBER 16, 2024
APRIL 15, 2024 OCTOBER 21, 2024
MAY 20, 2024 NOVEMBER 18, 2024
JUNE 17, 2024 DECEMBER 16, 2024
** HELD ON A TUESDAY BECAUSE OF THE MONDAY HOLIDAY
ATTACHMENT A
56
Jerold D Kappel, CEO
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation
Memo
To: Paul Watkins, Chair, Library Trustees
From: Jerold D Kappel, CEO
cc: Library Board of Trustees
Date: December 5, 2023
Re: Library Foundation Report
1.Program attendance is up this season. Library Live authors Lisa See and Steve Lopez weresold out. The spring Library Live season is almost sold out, and marketing has not been rolledout yet for the last two authors, Michael Scott Moore and Tess Gunty.
2.The Witte Lecture series is selling very well, with the opening speaker, Fiona Hill is nearly soldout.
3.The free community programs of the Foundation—Book Discussion Group (4), Medicine in
Our Backyard (3), Financial Literacy Workshop (6), and Spotlight on Science (1)—had aunique audience count of 426.
Name of the event Dates Tickets Sold
Lisa See Thursday, October 19, 2023 SOLD OUT
Steve Lopez Thursday, November 9, 2023 SOLD OUT
Michael Moore Smith Thursday, February 15, 2024 186
Tess Gunty Thursday, April 18, 2024 155
Name of the event Friday/Saturday Tickets sold to date
Fiona Hill Friday, January 26, 2024 184
Saturday, January 27, 2024 198
Ed Yong Friday, February 9, 2024 156
Saturday, February 10, 2024 164
Richard Reeves Friday, March 8, 2024 148
Saturday, March 9, 2024 130
Dahlia Lithwick Friday, April 12, 2024 146
Saturday, April 13, 2024 144
Witte Lectures 2023
Library Live 2023-2024
57
2
4. The Foundation will present 44 programs this season, 32 of these programs are free to the community.
5. The December Board Meeting of the Library Foundation will be a Board Holiday Reception.
a. All Board Committees—Executive, Governance, Finance, Development, Witte, Library Live, and Spotlight on Science are active, and the program committees are planning for the 2024-2025 season. It is planned for the season for all programs to be set in April and
the announcement in the June Bookmark magazine as this year.
b. The Foundation is continually seeking new volunteers to participate in program committees, the Finance and Development committees, and to serve on the Foundation
board of directors.
i. In the past year we have welcomed Emilie Menghin (Treasurer), Linda Beimfohr, Joy Brenner, Randy Heyler, and Mireya Llaurado to the Board.
ii. Fulfilling their tenure on the Board were Dorothy Larson (now a Library Trustee), Toby Larson, John Prichard, Lizanne Witte (still a member of both the Witte Lecture and Development committees), Adrian Windsor (still a member of Development and Library Live committees), and Felix Yan. Antonella Castro left the Foundation board to serve as a Library Trustee.
4. Bookmark is in the mail and its focus is the 30th anniversary of Central Library, the
Foundation’s role in advocating for it and funding 25% of its cost and insuring its future with a
Legacy Campaign.
a. This Bookmark also includes the Foundation Annual Report for fiscal 2023 and the
donor listing. Th annual report, including the financials, will be posted to the
Foundation website in late December.
b. Bookmark has been expanded to 20 pages and includes two pages dedicated to
Library and cultural events, and a page with an article about the Literacy program
authored by Melissa Hartson, and an article on how many “touches”, patron
interactions, the Library has on an annual basis authored by Rebecca Lightfoot.
c. The Foundation is promoting the FreeWill service to all its members and the email list
of 18,700. It is also a free service to any Library patron. This program is fully funded
by the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation.
5. On November 28, the City Council appointed a committee to negotiate with the Foundation on the third amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding that will include an increased financial contributory amount by the public. The City committee includes Mayor Noah Blom, Councilmember Lauren Kleiman, Dave Webb, and Yolanda Summerhill. The Foundation’s
committee is Board Secretary Marilyn Krahe, Board member Mireya Llaurado, Board Chair Kevin Barlow, advisor Larry Tucker, and Jerold Kappel, CEO.
a. The Council will vote at its January 9 meeting on either accepting or rejecting the low bid to begin construction of Witte Hall.
b. To iterate, the Hall is a Library building to manage. The Foundation’s role is to be the facilitator for the community’s philanthropic support of the Hall construction, just as the
Foundation’s role in the funding of the Central Library construction.
58
3
6. The Giving Tuesday after Thanksgiving campaign, had a +/- $4,000 in gifts for the new Library project, the Seed Library to be established at the Mariners Branch. The Foundation will make up the remaining funds needed to fully fund the requested $5,000 for this project. In consultation with Library Director Melissa Hartson and her staff we will select a different project for Library Giving Day in April.
7. Program Director Kunga Wangmo returns to full time in January. The Foundation intern, Dominic Cojuangco, will be leaving at the end of this calendar year. Dominique has been a
great help during Kunga’s maternity leave.
8. The Foundation offices will be closed December 21 through December 28. However, I can be reached at my email, jkappel@nbplf.foundation, or by cell at 703-307-0399.
The Foundation looks forward to a robust spring programming season and innovative ways it can support the Library.
59