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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packet - LB - 2009.03.17 URLINGAME PUBLIC LIBRARY IBURLINGAME Board of Trustees Agenda - _ -� a March 17, 2009—5.30pm °e Pq- 480 Primrose Road—Library Conference Room c L`6 SUGGESTED ACTION I.,ALL TO ORDER II.�z&L CALL III. Library Board of Trustees Minutes for February 17, 2009 Appproval IV. CORRESPONDENCE AND INFORMATION Information A. February 2009 Statistics B. Survey Results C. Legislative Report D. Tutor.com Report :/ E. Duncan Trust ✓ F. Comparison of Library Journal Starred Libraries G. Discussion/Potential Action Items (Sections VII. &VIII.) V. FROM THE FLOOR (Public Comments) T-T. REPORTS �. A. City Librarian's Report—Escoffier L' Information B. Foundation Report -1 Information VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. Employee Achievement Awards Dinner t/ Discussion/Action B. Wayne Willett Trust Fund Expenditures '� Discussion/Action VIII. NEW BUSINESS A. ALA Conference Attendance ✓ 12e" Discussion/Action B. Survey Results Discussion/Direction C. Budget Status;/ Information/Discussion D. Easton Report p-- Information/Discussion IX. ANNOUNCEMENTS X. ADJOURNMENT Adjourn Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Library Board of Trustees regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at the Reference Desk of the Burlingame Public Library, 480 Primrose Road, Burlingame, California BURL i NOAME Library Board of Trustees Minutes February 17, 2009 I. Call to Order President Brock called the meeting to order at 5:30pm. II. Roll Call Trustees Present: Nancy Brock, Deborah Griffith, Sandy Towle Trustees Absent: Katie McCormack, Pat Toft Staff Present: Al Escoffier, City Librarian Sidney Poland, Recorder III. Minutes of the January 20, 2009 Trustee Meeting The Trustees unanimously approved the January 20, 2009 minutes. M/S/C (Griffith/Brock) IV. Corresuondence and Attachments The Trustees reviewed the quarterly statements from the Trustees Fund and the Revolving Account. Library use statistics for January 2009 reflect a 8.15% increase at the main library and a 1.64% at the Easton Branch from January of 2008. V. From the Floor - No one from the public attended. VI. Reports A. City Librarian's Report - Highlights 1. Main Service Desk - Planning for the Main Service Desk is underway. Cross training is taking place with reference and circulation staff. The official "opening day" for the Main Service Desk is scheduled for April 15th. A "Change" workshop will be given for staff by Ruth Barefoot of the San Jose Way (San Jose Public Library). Ms. Barefoot will focus her program on how to implement an effective Main Service Desk and give us direction on other ways to use service desks and move shelving to make materials more accessible to our patrons. 480 Primrose Road•Burlingame•California 94010-4083 Phone(650)558-7474'Fax(650)342-6295•www.burlinyame.org/library 2. Library and Foundation Newsletter -� The joint newsletter is being mailed to approximately 8,000 residents in Burlingame the 2nd week of March. The focus will be to inform and explain the changes in Library services and staff that have resulted from the budget reductions. The Foundation's upcoming fundraising events will be a featured item. The Trustees suggested that the publication be put on the Library Website. 3. Requests to Foundation for 2009 - The City Librarian advised the Trustees of the specific funding requests he will make to the Foundation for 2009. The total amount requested is $110,000 and will be allocated to collections and. programs. Library Collections (Print) $ 80,000 Summer High School Enrichment $ 3,000 Children's 8s Adult Media $ 14,000 Children's/Adult Programs 13,000 Total Requests $ 110,000 B. Foundation Report Al Escoffier 1. New Board Members - Bryan Blythe, CPA; Don Roberts, retired attorney and former President of the Foundation; and Amber Ellis Senguine, graphic artist have been nominated to join the Foundation for a two year term. Their nominations will be approved at the February 19th Annual Foundation Board Meeting. 2. Advisory Board- Kris and Jim Cannon will host an evening get together of the Advisory Board to inform them of current board activities and enlist their support for the coming year. VII. Unfinished Business A. Library Budget Matrix February 19, 2009 The City Librarian reviewed the Matrix with the Trustees. Library reductions already made are reducing hourly staff 50% and closing Friday night at 5:00pm instead of 7:00pm. B. Employee Achievement Award Event The Trustees agreed to table discussion of this topic until all the Trustees are present. C. Wayne Willert Trust Fund Expenditures At the request of President Brock, the Trustees agreed to table discussion of this topic until all the Trustees are present. Library Board of Trustee Minutes February 17,2009 2 D. Internet Reservations Discontinued Barry Mills �..- Barry presented a visual to the Trustees and explained the rationale of discontinuing Internet reservations at the lower level terminals. The reservation procedure worked well when the time limit was for an hour. When the time frame was increased to 2 hours the system began to have problems such as shutting down after 1 hour for privacy reasons and causing patrons to lose his work and loss of reservations. Barry worked with the software company but issue could not be resolved. County libraries are still taking reservations for an hour; city libraries have discontinued reservations. VIII. New Business The City Librarian discussed the proposed reductions to the library budget some of which have been implemented and some which are a work in progress. The reductions total a savings of$ 420,808 and are categorized as follows: 1) reduction in hours for both Main and Easton; 2) reorganization of service desks, and the addition of another self check; and 3) reduction in collections and children and adult programming. IX. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6:45pm. M/S/C (Brock/Griffith) The next meeting of the Library Trustees will be held March 17, 2009 at 5:30pm in the Library Conference room. Respectfully Submitted, 't�X Alfr d H. ;scoede r City Librarian Library Board of Trustee Minutes February 17,2009 3 BURLINGAME PUBLIC LIBRARY STATISTICS FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2009 Burli^game Registered Borrowers Burlingame Hillsborough Other Total Adult Patrons 15,939 2,759 0 18,698 juvenile Patrons 4,773 1,388 0 6,161 Non-PLS Patrons 0 0 1,775 1,775 Teachers 88 11 88 187 Temporary Patrons 74 2 0 76 Outreach Patrons 22 1 0 23 Staff 28 0 39 67 Total Registered Borrowers 20,924 4,161 1,902.00 26,987.00 Circulation Totals This month total Main 49,935 This month previous year 46,222 8.03% increase This month total Branch 6,030 This month previous year 6,127 1.58%decrease This month Grand Total 55,965 This month previous year 52,349 6.91% increase Circulation Activit All Children's All A/V All Non-English Main 17,463 16,715 341 Easton 3,640 1,968 0 Total 21,103 18,683 341 Self Check Usage Total Items %of 1 st Time Check Outs Main 23,443 64% Branch 2,501 57% '- c nline Renewals Total Items % of Total Renewals Main 10,107 74% Branch 1,260 57% Reference Activit Inter Library Loans Questions Lent 3,865 Reference 2,248 Borrowed 2,365 Children's 1,192 TOTAL 6,230 Lower Level 1,958 Branch 458 TOTAL 5,856 t. BURLINGAME PUBLIC LIBRARY STATISTICS FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2009 PAGE 2 Collections Main Titles Volumes Main Titles Added Branch Volumes Added Adult Non-Fiction 229 158 6 Children's Non-Fiction 75 40 29 YA Non-Fiction 0 0 0 Adult Fiction 309 230 39 Children's Fiction 86 41 12 YA Fiction 58 41 4 DVD Fiction Adult 92 46 8 DVD Fiction JUV 2 0 0 DVD Fiction YA 0 0 0 DVD Non-Fiction Adult 38 36 0 DVD Non-Fiction JUV 0 0 0 DVD Non-Fiction YA 0 0 0 BCKD Adult 40 31 6 Children's BKCD 4 2 0 YA BKCD 3 3 0 CD Music Adult 1 1 0 CD Music JUV 11 9 0 CD Music YA 0 0 0 Totals 948 638 104 Fines and Fees Main $7,054.92 Branch* 693.70 Total $7,748.62 '--Main and Easton Deposits Trustee Special Fund Photocopies/SAM (Main) 893.65 Photocopies/SAM (Branch) 24.60 Total Branch and Main 918.25 Estimated User Traffic Main 35,548 Daily Average Main 1,206 Estimated User Traffic Branch 3,348 Daily Average Easton 146 Total User Traffic 38,896 Total Daily Average 1,352 Community Room Adult Number of Meetings Attendance Public Meetings 7 240 Staff Meetings 4 100 YA Author Event 1 50 Adult Programs 2 30 Lincoln School 2nd and 3rd Grade Book Clubs 2 45 Totals 16 465 Conference Room Book Club Adult 1 15 City Meeting 2 50 Staff Meetings 6 35 Foundation Board and Author's Luncheon 2 30 Library Board of Trustees 1 7 Dublic Meeting John Ward) 1 25 Mals 13 162 BURLINGAME PUBLIC LIBRARY STATISTICS FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2009 PAGL 3 Shildren's and Young Adult Programs Attendance Main Pre-school Story Time 11 384 Toddler Story Time 8 497 Baby Story Time 1 48 Books and Cookies 1 5 Total Story Time 21 Total Story Time Attendance 1,026 Special Programs N/A Attendance N/A Total Special Program Attendance Class Visits (Elementary) 0 Preschool Outreach Visits 0 Total Class Visits 0 Total Class Visits Attendance Easton Story Times&Special Programs Attendance Questions Easton Preschool 4 89 Reference 458 Toddler 4 191 Total Programs 8 280 Class Visits(elementary) 1 Attendance 53 Total Class Visits 1 Total 53 Attendance Easton Internet Usage User Sessions 1 495 Main Internet User Sessions Hour, Half Hour, & Ex ress Children's Total 5,363 170 5,533 January 2009 Outreach Statistics Current Patrons 16 (Additions 1 -Subtractions 3 0 Total Outreach Patrons 16 25 Deliveries Pick Ups Books 65 Paperbacks 18 Audio Books 5 Music CD's 36 DVD's 54 1a azines 10 Total Library Materials 188 Library Survey Overview March 11, 2009 Survey Overview A survey of library users was taken over a 3 week period both online and in the library. 180 surveys were completed, with 132 of those submitted online. There are 13 pages of comments on the various questions. The comments are attached. Below is a summary of the survey results with comments from the City Librarian. Survey Highlights with Comments 1) Reduction in Services. The highest number of respondents at 69% noted a reduction in adult programming as their first choice in reductions. Only 28% suggested reducing hours. Comment: Reduction in Adult programming is,being done; we have reduced the costs by using more "box"programs which require less staff time. 2) Frequency of Library Use. 67% of the respondents use the library once a week or more; another 23% use the library once a month. Comment: Of those surveyed, it appears that frequency of library use is very high. 3) Frequency of Easton Branch Use. 50% of those surveyed use the Easton Branch; 17% of those surveyed use the branch once a week or more. Comment. It appears significant that as many as half use the Easton Branch, considering the location and hours. Circulation at Easton has tripled in the past 4 years. 4) What hours is the Main Library used?42% of those surveyed use the afternoons; mornings, evenings and weekends were almost evenly divided on use. Comment. It appears that library use beyond afternoons is evenly divided among those who prefer evenings, weekends and mornings. 5) What hours is the Easton Branch used? Thursday was the heaviest day according to the respondents, followed by Wednesday, Tuesday and Saturday. Comment: The Library is conducting a survey in the next few weeks to determine the actual circulation and traffic by day. 6) What do visitors do at the Library?94% check out books or media; 43% use reference materials or reference staff, 28% bring a child to story time; 25% use the library facilities for study. Comment. Clearly lending materials is a high priority, as is use of the facilities for study, research, story times, and use of the Internet. 1 7) What Collections are used most?The top three uses were: adult fiction and non-fiction books and media for all ages. Other heavy uses were: bestsellers, -� children's materials, and magazines. Comment: Library use is heavy in a number of areas. The target of collection expenditures is in keeping with collection use. It will be important to maintain library collections in the future. 8) Rate Your Library Experience. 78% of respondents rated the Library as "Excellent". Another 22% rated the Library as "Very Good". Comment. There were no responses for "satisfactory"or `poor". The Library experience of our users is very positive according to the written comments. 9) Demographics:Age Group. Of those surveyed, 37916, were in the 25-45 age range; with 38% in the 46-64 age range. Comment: From the survey results, no children or teens were surveyed, so library use by this very large youthful group would not be accurate. 10)Demographics: Home Library. Of the respondents surveyed, 73%were Burlingame residents; 6% were Hillsborough residents; 7916' were from outside our service area. Al Escoffcer, City Librarian 2 Library Survey - Comments from the Community February 2009 Responses to the Question - "Other Suggestions for Cuts" Programs Eliminate Adult and Children programs as individuals can organize these activities on their own. Materials 1. Reduce magazine subscriptions 2. Reduce audio-visual materials 3. Instead of reducing materials, find out what patrons would be willing to pay for additional services. Staffing Reduce staffing and use more volunteers especially tech folks to maintain computer networks and equipment. Hours 1. If reduction in hours is necessary, balance daytime and evening hours. (example - have one day a week with extended hours in the daytime.) 2. Suggested hours - Monday-Thursday- 10:00am - 7:OOpm Easton Branch Close Easton Branch. Miscellaneous 1. Please don't reduce anything. 2. It is regrettable that cuts are being made. 3. I love the collection 4. Make checkout more automated like the Millbrae Library 1 Responses to Questions "What could the Library be doing better?" Programs 1. My grandchildren love story time! I bring them every week. 2. I just LOVE story time! Please don't cut it at Easton or the Main. If necessary have it two times a week. 3. Love the delivery service to shut in people and the special programs for children and families. 4. Please try not to cut children's services; the libraries are wonderful, and story time is such an important asset, especially for those who can't afford paid activities. It is the only free activity available to children in town, and its such high quality. 5. Suggestion for a late afternoon or weekend story time, as well as a reading workshops for kids. 6. Children's story times are excellent. Hours 1. The less the library is open, the less it will be used and cared for, -� and eventually it might lose its special place in the community. 2. If hours are cut, it will be next to impossible to get them back later; whereas a less current collection can be remedied in the future. 3. Patron appreciates library's late evening and weekend hours. 4. Increased hours on the weekend especially for students. 5. Our family could live with fewer evening hours but the weekends are valuable to us. Someday when you can afford to do so, more evening hours on the weekend would be valuable and welcome. 6. If possible, opening the main library for longer hours on the weekend would be helpful to students and working patrons who cannot get there during the week. 7. Like more and more people in our community, I am unemployed and the library is the MOST important public service available to me for job searching online or finding something interesting to read about and to simply escape to the library's beautiful and peaceful environment. Please do not reduce hours any further. 8. I would have preferred if the hours were cut on another day other than Friday. I used to use the library on Fridays after work. 9. I love the library and hate to see the hours reduced as evening hours are really terrific for those of us who work and for teenage kids. 2 10. While I love the programs like Winter Wonderland, I would rather see fewer of these types of programs and longer library hours. 11. If further cuts in hours are necessary, I would like to suggest closing the main library on Mondays rather than on Sunday when students and many families use the library. 12. My preference would be to for the library to open up later in the day and close later in the evening. This would benefit the people who cannot get to the library until after S:OOpm. 13. Open main library Friday and Saturday nights. 14. More weekend hours, especially Sundays or mornings at the Easton branch would be preferable to weekday hours. Staff 1. Staff is very knowledgeable and very helpful. 2. I would like to see City employees take a 10% pay cut starting at the very top, and at least half way down the line. My income has been cut more than that. 3. I think we can live without the convenient hours, comprehensiveness of the collection and the bells and whistles for a while. Please just leave the staff in tact as much as possible, because they are a critical part of the library experience and once they're gone, they're gone forever. 4. I like your excellent reference desk on the first floor. 5. Cut open hours, audio visual collections, or anything else before you cut the librarian positions—materials can be re-purchased once times get better, but people who lose their jobs won't be back. 6. All employees are very helpful. 7. The cuts that hurt us all, as a community are the staff cuts, and I do hope that staff will be replaced when the City's financial position improves. 8. Librarians ALWAYS VERY helpful and cheerful, makes a person happy that this library was chosen over any other. 9. Given the cutbacks ahead I would look to working with the other libraries in the San Mateo County System to combine forces with online services that could offer additional services or resources when the library is closed. 10. Great Staff. Always helpful and friendly. 11. Your librarians are fantastic. 3 12. The main library is a gem with the best children's librarians ever. The staff is friendly and efficient, the facility is clean and welcoming and the collection is thorough. I think closing a bit earlier in the evening would be the worst of all evils in terms of cuts. 13. More availability with the reference librarians and access to computers. 14. Excellent help from the lower level desk! "Children's story times are excellent! Story times are perfect for both of my childen - we go at least once very week. 15. It is a wonderful library- Cathy (Somerton) does an outstanding job at story time. Our Grandson loves the library and books. 16. I very much oppose any combination of the library and parks and recreation departments, staff and/or commissions. Materials 1. Add Laptop magazine. 2. I cannot locate the Religion section in the Friends of the Library Book Sales section. I do appreciate the growing DVD collection. 3. More DVD's of classic movies and TV series. 4. Try to do a better job of estimating member interest when acquiring materials. For example, I've seen multiple copies of a single new book (e.g.) Bob Woodward sitting on the shelf, while other books have not been ordered. 5. Large type collection is terrific. 6. Your collection of travel books for common destinations - Hawaii, Europe, and California is up to date. Your collection of less common destinations Egypt, Israel , Namibia, etc. is out of date. Do you accept donations in these areas or is it possible to set up a planned giving program that specifies these kind of titles? 7. I love your hold/deliver service and would definitely pay more for that for best sellers. I'm used to buying new books but have stopped that to save money. I'd be happy to pay a couple of dollars to put holds on best sellers. 8. A lot of the magazines and periodicals are specialty oriented. Why not winnow out all by the most popular magazines and those that are representative of their topic and put the rest on an endangered species list?" Post notices in the City newsletter, website free newspaper free space, etc. that these endangered periodicals are up for "adoption". 4 An individual could assume payment of the subscription for 1 year by writing a check to the library which could then be used for renewal so that the subscription is uninterrupted. The library could post an artful list in the library which would show the yearly "adoption fee" and then add an overlay with a donor's name on the "endangered periodical". Maybe a class of school kids would like to adopt something as a class project. 9. Cut down on the # of copies ordered for best sellers. Of course that makes the wait list longer but at the same time, you could add a couple of copies to a lending library format. 10. More selection of new releases. 11. Need more computers 12. I live in Daly City but I love coming to the Burlingame Library. The building is so beautiful, and everyone is so nice. My favorite part of the library is the old magazine collection in the basement. It's a very important archive. 13. Online academic journal subscriptions would be great. It is great that the library has a subscription to Science. 14. Decrease number of items/patron for books on CD's and DVDs. 15. Post written classification of materials and method of resource organization. 16. How about a per diem on the movie collection....$ .50 a day rather than for free. Miscellaneous 1. I do not like the change in policy regarding the 1st floor internet usage. I like to be able to reserve a computer so that I can plan my time accordingly. 2. The PLS website needs to be updated to reflect Burlingame's Main Library current internet availability and policy. 3. I have been to the library to see films and had the distinct and unforgettable pleasure of watching the Inauguration in the Lane Community Room. It's a jewel. What a gift! I cannot recommend cutting anything about the library. It is arguably our greatest community resource! 4. I most often find my visits to the Burlingame library very satisfying. Sometimes the book(s) I want are not in at the time, but I can always put a hold on them . 5. Love the online search of catalog, and being able to renew and ask for holds from home. 6. Noise level of the library person replacing books - do it quietly. 7. I like everything at the Burlingame Library more than the Millbrae library even though Millbrae is more convenient. I like the way it is 5 set up. I like the children's program in both branches so I hope you do not cut those hours or eliminate them. 8. Devastated with budget cuts! Are there ways to contribute funds privately - through foundation? - Let the public know. 9. We love the library, especially the main library. The staff is great, particularly the children's. Easton is closer to our home, so we occasionally stop by for a quick visit to pick out new books. 10. We still marvel at the beautiful and wonderfully perfect library we are so fortunate to have in Burlingame. Sounds really corny, but the entire enlarging project was done with "love" from the planning to the fund raising and it shows it. There is a unique personal, friendly, cozy atmosphere here that does not exist in today's "modern" libraries. 11. Thank you for seeking our input. I think the people need the library more than ever during tough economic times and it is a shame to have to cut services when the public needs you most. I hope you will let us know if there is anything else we can do, such as writing to the city or the state regarding library funding. Thank you for everything. 12. I love the library despite the parking situation. I would hope that Burlingame could find budget cuts some other way rather than messing with one of the city's showpieces. If anything, maybe think of closing the Easton Branch until money can be reallocated to operate again? 13. Unfortunately, we are in a recession and cannot afford to continue to spend the same amount of money as when the economy is growing. 14. Turn out the lights at night. Don't print a open letter to the patrons of the library on 201b custom printed paper. Tell the library staff to stop talking with each other while waiting on the patrons of the library. Easton 1. It may make sense to close the Easton Library during this downturn but I am sure you will evaluate the usage of both libraries to determine whether that makes sense or not. 2. Easton seems to be a free day care for the neighboring private Catholic School - I avoid using it on school days as the uniformed students are talking loudly, going in and out the doors, monopolizing the computers, etc. It seems we should not be using our city's funds to provide free day care to a private parochial school. 6 Response to "Best Experience in the Library" Programs 1. Talks I have attended on various topics. 2. Story time and any of the staff-produced holiday affairs! 3. Enjoy the annual events and this year's 100th year celebrations. 4. Baby and Me story time 5. The summer reading program for the kids was a big success for our son. 6. We really enjoyed the holiday celebration. We had never been before and it was fabulous. Of course, we always enjoy the children's story time. I have children ages 7,4 and 21 months and they have all participated in the toddler and preschool story times. The 21 month old has just begun going on a regular basis. 7. The book sale! 8. I love the time the library turned into Winter Wonderland not just for the children but for adults as well. 9. Children's programs are great. 10. In addition, story time has become a way to build our community and allows children and fellow moms/caregivers of all different backgrounds to meet each other. �-- 11. I love (as does my boy) Story Times!!! 12. Story Time 8, kids section. 13. Story times, checking out books 8s audio-visual materials, studying and holding our 3rd grade book club in the Lane Room. 14. The Children's Story time and the Children's programs. 15. Story Time 16. I raised 4 daughters and all attended Story Time and participated in summer book club and now I bring my 2 year old grand- daughter to the Story Time. It's a tradition. 17. Movie Time and Story Time 18. Centennial celebration, uses of Children's library and great service of Children's Librarians when I was teaching in the Burlingame School District. Marvelous coordination with public school system and library! 19. Toddler Story Time 20. Story Time is very enjoyable. the librarians are very friendly and helpful. I have enjoyed all the winter activities (Winter Wonderland) at the Main Library, singing at Easton - great place. I would never read so many books if it was not for the library. 7 Staff 1. Watching the rapt attention of the children and the joy engendered in them by the wonderful staff who read to them at story time and put on a "shove' like the magical Holiday evening. You can always get more materials and extend hours again when the budget improves, but the personnel are priceless and not replaceable. 2. I knew the book I wanted but not the title. I gave clues to the reference librarian and after quite a search, she found it. Another person, who was also consulted her was intrigued by her ingenuity, as was I. I did not get her name, but I see her quite frequently. , 3. I love the library. I often drop in when I am out for my walk,just to see what is new. We are a heavy user of DVDs and CDs. I love browsing through the Friends "store"... I usually come home with a new treasure. The library is extremely important to me. I will do whatever I can. Do not close Easton. Usually, I have sent over to the Burlingame Main whatever I want. The library tech there is wonderful. Actually, all of the library staff is the absolute best. Please do not cut staff hours. Our community -. needs these wonderful people. Let's have fundraisers. The Friends of the Library could be more active. 4. There are too many to mention, but the staff are always friendly and helpful, especially at the front desk, and it is a very welcoming family environment. 5. Receiving help when I needed to get books on tapes for an elderly parent. The staff was so patient and understanding. 6. Children's room librarian Cathy talking with my daughter after story time about her interest, drawing her out and getting her excited about books related to the things she likes. 7. I think, unquestionably, my best experience has been MY ON- Going EXPERIENCE WITH THE STAFF. We simply have an exceptional staff, helpful, knowledgeable, and did I mention, consistently cheerful. 8. The Children's librarian's are wonderful at helping kids find appropriate books. 9. Front desk and other librarians are always helpful and cheerful. It makes you happy that you chose this library over others. 10. Watching my somewhat shy 9-year old son, Peter, independently approach a children's reference librarian for help with finding books on Greek Gods. She helped him find some wonderful books and he read them all. -� 8 11. The courteous friendly service of the library staff is always �- outstanding, patrons are made to feel really welcome. 12. Having my child feel confident that he/she are welcome and can find help and find what they are looking for. Help in the children's section is excellent. 13. My best experiences have been going to the children's department with my children and asking for recommendations. We always come away with great new books. 14. I am a mother of 3 kids who all LOVE and enjoy every minute of Story Time by teacher Cathy. They love her and her team. It is one of our most favorite activities each week. 15. My daughter just turned 13 and I've been bringing her to the library since she was a baby even when it was housed in the trailer up the street due to retrofitting. She utilizes the help of the children's librarians all the time to find reference/resource books for school projects and pleasure reading. They are always wonderfully helpful to her and have guided her to many books she might not know how to look for. They are wonderful women and a priceless resource for the library. 16. Getting prompt assistance from the reference librarians. 17. Your excellent children's book collection and helpful librarians - we have had a great experience getting books here. 18. The children's librarians are always very helpful in finding books and suggesting alternate resources. 19. Whenever I hear about a new book I'm interested in reading, I call you up and if you don't have it, you order it. I love that !! Also, staff is very helpful. 20. Short concise answers to questions of location... not a barrage of information. Ask questions that help to narrow or focus the search experience. 21. Your staff is always helpful and friendly! 22. Excellent Reference Librarians 23. When I was a classroom teacher, BPL personnel and materials were invaluable to me. As a retired person, I now enjoy attending special events and checking out books for pleasure reading or just browsing. 24. The Children's Librarians are all wonderful and helpful. I hope the children's programs don't get cut. My kids look forward to them. 25. Story Time with Cathy. L 9 Materials 1. Finding some remote book, ages old, that I've read about to some obscure article always gives me a charge ... never too old to learn new things. 2. Love finding the one dollar treasures in the little "book shop" corner. ALWAYS check that and never miss the book sales. The charming staff always gives me a feeling of welcome. 3. Introducing my young child to the library. The Children's room is amazing! 4. I hope there is not a reduction in the book collection. It seems that a cut could be made in the purchase of new AV materials if necessary. Although, I do enjoy getting a DVD now and then, I could rent them on my own. I could never imagine a library, without new books but certainly can imagine a library without new DVDs. 5. Watching my 3 year old pour through the stack of children's books. Also we enjoyed the Winter Wonderland evening. 6. I requested that the library purchase a book that other peninsula libraries had ordered and it did. 7. Discovering your extensive literary criticism and plays collection. Your library is the best in the county for this type of material. -� 8. Thank you for such a great children's book collection, and for keeping the hold fees down on children's books—we are huge library fans! 9. Not once, but every time... I can't find what I want on the library's computers, your librarians find it for me. They don't behave as if I am stupid! Could you post some directions re: use of computers?) 10. I think that being able to request books online and have them delivered to the nearby library is the best deal in town! Our librarians are some of the nicest people you will meet in this town as well. 11. The selection of books is the best in the county. 12. You have the best DVD collection, as well as your quick picks on the main floor (new books) area. It is my favorite library. I was introduced to it when I started working in Burlingame, and now that I'm working in San Mateo, I still go back. 13. When recently remodeling our home, we used many books for remodeling, as well as planting gardens, herbs, and vegetables for our new garden. My husband loves the cookery book section -you are just a great library for our family- for us all. Thank you for all your good work. 14. I like the books you put out on sale @ $1.00 each. 15. Love the videos of PBS series like "As Time Goes By " 10 16. I like the Hold system for books when I don't have time to browse the shelves in person. I check the online catalog and put holds on �-- the books I like and if Burlingame doesn't have them, they are borrowed from other branches within a reasonable amount of time. The librarians and staff are always friendly. 17. I went to the librarian who sits in front of the old magazine archive and asked if I could browse inside. She said it was fine, and I spent an hours or so just looking through the fantastic collection. Being able to hold and read magazines from the beginning of the 20th century in'paper form instead of microfiche is a really different and much more intense experience, and I felt privileged to get the chance. Miscellaneous 1. Easy return 2. Getting a centennial celebration library card - very cool 3. The best experience began a string of many more. The whole family grew very attached to our libraries about 16 years ago when we started going to story time, especially bedtime stories when the kids came in their pajamas. Additionally, we are very fond of our librarians who are always helpful and friendly. It is wonderful to be connected to the Burlingame community through the library where people know you by name!!! 4. I can't single out one because every visit is a joy. 5. Introducing my young child to the library. The Children's Room is amazing. 6. Reference room with wireless is great, especially in the summer because you have air conditioning. 7. I cherish the memories of taking our son to the main library when he was small. He continued to come to the library in elementary and high school. In his junior year he was selected to receive the coveted Yale Book Award. He requested that his photo for this award be taken at the library. 8. I feel safe bringing my nieces to this library and letting them study/research/read in their own section while I peruse downstairs. I also appreciate the regular book sales and the book sale display area right behind the circulation desk. 9. Every time I go into the library is my best experience. You people are awesome! Thanks for what you do. 10. There is no best experience, I have brought my children to the library since they were toddlers and now they are ten. They enjoy finding books they have an interest in and asking librarians for �. advice. 11 11. Quiet 12. I love this library, it is so clean has enough light and is very well --. kept up. Congratulations, keep up with the beautiful job that you are doing. 13. I like the two hours of internet since I do not have a computer at home. This is a great service. 14. Difficult to state - probably being on the board and active with the Friends when it still existed. 15. Walking from our house with our children to story hours with Mrs. Dunn years ago at the Easton Branch. Yes, we have been library patrons for a long time, but we still enjoy walking to the Easton Branch to check out books. 16. I think the library is a great asset to the community. When I had small children, we used to go to the library all the time. Now that my children are grown, I am reacquainting myself with the library and enjoying it all over again. 17. The library is needed the most during poor economic times so that people have access to learning materials. 18. I just think the new library is a wonderful place to visit. I wouldn't want to see it closed because of budget. It needs to be open every day. You could cut the hours of operation if needed. 19. It has been and continues to be a wonderful resource for my children who are now in middle school and high school. They have --� been regular library patrons since they were toddlers. The self- service check out was a very exciting thing for them! As for myself, I often went to the main library to study when I was in law school a few years ago and found the upper floor reasonably quiet and peaceful. 20. I believe it is very important to our community to provide library resources and facility for the public to utilize. In these difficult economic times, the resource of a local library can be the lifeline to community outreach and support. 21. My daughter learned to love books here. She bounds into the library and heads right for the adolescent series section and consults the librarians on her own. I love to browse the "quick picks "section and use the library regularly. 22. Could you offer a conference area for meetings and charge a small fee? We'd hold our book group there if there was a place for us to talk and bring our own tea or coffee. 23. Best in every respect! Thanks! 24. I really like the customer service, cleanliness, easy access to everything, and having a copy machine for convenience since I use it often. 25. Easy way of finding books. 26. I have been coming to the Library for 48 years. Helping to grieve --� the death of father. (Should this be left in?) 12 27. The Children's section is the best because it is made for kids to have a fun time. `- 28. I get help with my computer skills when I am constructing a project onlineM On the other hand, there is too much loud talking from the school kids at the main level computer arcade, or even in the main reading room. There is no authority figure to quiet them. 29. Oh my goodness, there are so many how should I begin? #1 expertise and availability of research librarians; #2 ability to improve my life situation by internet availability for help and research on w.w.w. for health, finances, everyday living, commuter information, ecology/recycling; #3 the enjoyment of classical/jazz CD's and educational DVDs i.e. computer instruction, that I personally can't afford. 13 Escoffier, Al From: California Library Association [info@cla-net.org] ,3nt: Friday, February 20, 2009 3:30 PM �.o: Escoffier, Al Subject: News From the Capitol - No Cuts to Library Programs Nevvs- News From the Capitol - No Cuts to Library Programs GOVERNOR SIGNS 2009-10 BUDGET—NO CUTS TO LIBRARY PROGRAMS 02-20-2009 More Info At 2 p.m. this afternoon, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the long-awaited 2009-2010 Budget bill (SB 1 - Third Extraordinary Session), a tax increase measure, and corresponding Budget "trailer bills," in a room located within the Governor's offices. The press, we understand, was not invited to the signing, which is rather unusual. The signing of the "Budget Act Package" was supposed to commence at 11:30 a.m. and then was ultimately pushed back to 2 p.m. today. You may recall that the Senate worked to obtain the 27th necessary vote for passage of the Budget bill by negotiating with Senate Republican Abel Maldonado. One of the conditions for Senator Maldonado's vote was the request that an additional $600 million in cuts be made to the Budget. Today, when the Governor signed the Budget bill, he used his so-called "blue pencil" authority, and actually made $957 million in reductions to programs. CLA is pleased to note that the Governor did not make any reductions to the State Library or to its programs such as the Public Library Foundation, Transaction Based Reimbursement, or the adult literacy program. The Governor made reductions in most of the budgets of the Executive officers, such as the Treasurer, Controller, Board of Equalization, Insurance Commissioner, and Lieutenant Governor. You may recall that recently the Executive Officers rejected the Governor's Executive Order calling for all state employees to take a two day per month furlough, which resulted in approximately a 10 percent pay reduction for employees. Interestingly, it appears that the reductions made to the Constitutional Officers' budgets, more or less, correspond to the Governor's earlier Executive Order. In fact, in his blue pencil message, regarding the Controller's Budget,the Governor stated, "I am reducing this appropriation by 10 percent of the State Controller's personal services budget,which reflects the state employee compensation reductions for furloughs, overtime reform, and elimination of two state holidays. I am reducing these funds to ensure equity among all executive branch agencies relative to employee compensation levels." The largest of the cuts, however, fell on the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, which was reduced by$400 million. �-- If you no longerwishz to receive e-mail from us,',please click here. 1 4{or.co w v LIVE H OM FREE ONLINE HELP HELPFROM REAL TUTORS Six Month Usage Report Burlingame Public Library Burlingame, CA City Librarian: Alfred Escoffier Program Manager: Patricia Harding Inside Sales Manager: Susan Del Rosario July 1, 2008 — December 31, 2008 ` ,tor; m The Proqrm t�rl�r tt�rxt- r6�i�fM�L,ifrrir • Burlingame Public Library began its Live Homework Help program on July 1, 2006. The library serves a population of approximately 35,602. • The program was launched for in-library patrons as well as for remote users. • In 20071, Tutor.com added authentication for remote users to protect Burlingame Public Library from overuse of the program by students outside of the district. • The hours for the program are 1:OOpm — 10:00pm, daily. In August 2008, the service was expanded to serve Kindergarten — Introductory College level, plus Adult Learners. • Spanish speaking tutors in Math, Science, and Social Studies are also available during these hours. • The Burlingame Public Library website has multiple prominent login opportunities for Live Homework Help including: o A logo and link on the Teens @ BPL Homework Help page o A logo and link on the Kids' Homework Help Tools page • Many other libraries within Peninsula Library System also offer Live Homework Help to their patrons, making it the most widely used online tutoring service in the county. These libraries include: o Redwood City Public Library (all branches) o San Mateo Public Library (all branches) o Menlo Park Public Library (all branches) o South San Francisco (all branches) o San Bruno (all branches) • Tutor.com supports the mission of the Burlingame Public Library BURLINGAME PUBLIC LIBRARY MISSION STATEMENT "The Burlingame Public Library serves all members of the community by providing and promoting free and equal access to resources and information in a professional, welcoming environment." Itor.com 0011-+lwxt�^ fK hC4slid wiWal The Usa rign (Raw data and associated graphs in Appendix) • The usage of Live Homework Help by Burlingame Public Library patrons was exceedingly high before authentication for remote users was added in 2007. Once authentication was put in place, usage is assured to come only from Burlingame Public Library Patrons. Even with authentication, Burlingame Public Library has seen great increases in usage in the last two years Contract Start Sessions % Increase 2007 681 - 2008 1086* 59% *anticipated usage based on first 7 months of contract usage • A review of the statistics for the current contract year shows that recent users are most often IIth grade students, though it is also widely used by younger students as well. They are primarily looking for help in math. The math service is utilized for students of all ages, showing high usage in elementary math, algebra, and calculus. • Nearly all students accessing the program do so from remote locations. • Student feedback left by Burlingame Public Library sessions. Are you glad your organization offers this service? 98% Would you recommend this service to a friend? 97% Is Live Homework Help helping you complete your homework 90% assignments? Is Live Homework Help helping you improve your grades? 79% Is Live Homework Help helping you be more confident about your 87% school work? r.001w tI.l►.4 tmw«.'tk try modiiliffIF4 Appendix Sessions by Month by Year OctJul Aug -Dec 6 49 77 64 72 52 83 48 35 84 90 21 681 2008 22 25 164 205 112 42 67 - - - - 637 200 so f_ ■ 07 2008' 1,200 1,000 800 i 600 C 400 200 2007 2008 � r,CO jn Sessions by Grade July 2008 — Dec 2008 l�r,{le���e�x1-.���`►elf Ind b�fc 6 th 7 th 16 6 1 12 15 60 28 23 53 54 30 179 121 49 17 leap -- r 160 140 120 - 100 40 _I 0 ^+ n, M a Ln ca N CO rn O ', N 0, a v Sessions by Core Subject — July 2008 — Dec 2008 �0=68 1 50 312 161 61 350 300 250 200 150 ' _. ----- -____ 100 ANOW, 50 --- English Writing Math Science Social Center Studies U01W PaHtubalu-ffkIRbslid bUrdn; Math Sessions by Level - July 2008 — Dec 2008 et 62 9 75 14 19 IZ 121 W Grades 4-6 ®Grades 7-8 3% Y Algebra ■Geometry I Algebra 11 ■Trigonometry r' � _I Calculus 496 Science Sessions by Level July 2008 — Dec 2008 Bioto 21 1 150 18 87 39 13% 3% r Grades 4-8 1 Earth Science ■Biology Chemistry o Physics 54% y4/rrM7 00w N Nut-.r44!k4 sold►arirffgt Unedited Comments by Burlingame Patrons July 2008 — Dec 2008 4th Tutor.com gives you great tutors that make things simple and ens 5th the tutors are amazing and i am really happy because now i can . f inish homework and understanding it at the same time 5th Chris S. is a fantastic tutor! he has great tutoring skills and is really good at making up allitierations 7th THIS IS 500000 COOL. I am using this every time i have a problem from now on! 9th my tutor made me feel that i was accomplishing something! 9th i use it for every thing i don't get now! thanks tutor.com! `.. 9th it was very helpful! thanks for offering such a unique service. i will use it whenever i need help! thanks! 9th Please keep this service up and running. I would be failing in math if it weren't for this. 10th Sara V is a great tutor. Very friendly. Gives good tips and helps very much. 11th It's great when the tutor explains certain steps to getting to the answer! 11th This was great! My essays looks perfect with all the right grammar ;p! 9 11th I love how the the tutors take the time to walk me through the problem. thanks :) 12th Jennifer was extremely helpful with my chemistry homework. I love this tutor help !!!!I► Comparison of Library Journal Starred Libraries Peninsula Library System Library Journal Star Survey, March 10, 2009 Library Circ PC Visits PC Program PC Terminals PC Total Score *RCPL 16.0 7.3 1.4 4.6 1126 BPL 17.0 12.8 0.6 5.1 1028 *SMCO 10.6 7.4 0.5 2.4 836 SB 8.0 6.1 0.2 1.0 483 SMPL 5.5 3.4 0.3 1.6 461 DC 5.6 4.7 0.2 1.4 455 Note: * Redwood City and San Mateo County received stars in the national survey. Stars were given within the categories of overall operating expenditures. For example, Redwood City was in the category of$ 5M-$ 9M operating expenditure. San Mateo County was in the category of$ 1OM- $ 29M. Burlingame is in the category of$ 1M - $ 4M. Data was not available for 710 libraries, including South San Francisco. Comparison of Starred Libraries in PLS Escoffier/031109 Library Board of Trustees t Discussion/Potential Action Items March 11, 2009 VII. Unfinished Business A. Employee Awards Dinner. The Trustees should review and discuss the options concerning the December dinner costs. In order to reduce the dinner costs it has been suggested that individual Trustees and their guests, and individual Foundation Board members and their guests, pay for the dinner personally to defray costs. This should reduce the dinner cost by approximately$ 1,645.00 from the $ 4,000.00 cost of the 2008 event. The new cost would be in the range of$ 2,355.00. This would be about $ 35.00 per person. The Foundation Board would need to agree to this initiative for their Board members to capture the savings. Staff and their guests would be honored and not pay for the dinner. The dinner is scheduled for Sunday, December 6, 2009. B. Wayne Willert Trust. The Trustees should review the Trust fund gift and decide how the funds should be expended. Some suggestions were: Endowment Fund, Emergency Fund, Capital project, additional funds for the Education Fund. The City Librarian recommends that some funds be set aside for physical changes to the new "Main Service Desk" and the alternation or removal of the existing Reference Desk. Bids are now being sought, but I would suggest $ 30,000.00 be set aside for this purpose. VIII. New Business A. ALA Conference. The Trustees should review and consider authorization of the expenditure from the Trustees Education Fund for Amy Pelman and Al Escoffier to attend the ALA Conference in Chicago in July. The cost would likely be $ 1,500 per person. B. Survey Results. The Trustees may wish to have the survey published in some form either on paper or on the website. Staff direction would be helpful. C. Budget Status. The general fund budget for the Library is due on Friday, March 27. This budget will include the proposed reductions suggested by City Council at their last meeting: reduction in hourly staff; reduction of print/media budget; and other reductions to meet the 10% reduction target. Closing Sundays and closing the Easton Branch are NOT in this budget. It is my belief that we can sustain the 10% reduction without these drastic measures. BURL NOAME City Librarian's Report to the Board of Trustees March 17, 2009 Library Budget Reductions At the City Council budget session held on Wednesday, February 25th, reductions were considered for a number of city service areas. Among the library areas mentioned were: a) Reduce main library hours b) Reduce materials budget by 50% or $ 98,000 c) Close Sundays d) Limit children's and adult programming e) Close more days around holidays f) Close the Easton Branch Library The City Librarian was asked to compile statistics on use of the main library, both in- library traffic and circulation of materials; he was also asked to compile statistics on the use of the Easton Branch library by days of the week and by circulation. An analysis of the cost to run the Easton Branch was also requested. Statements by Council included concerns that the branch library was not sufficiently used to maintain operations. Community Survey Staff just completed a community survey on library use. We used the library website and paper surveys in the library. With such a brief amount of time it was difficult to do something more elaborate. Survey results are attached. Staff is particularly gratified by the many positive comments about the library, the services and the staff. It is indeed a wonderful thing to work in such a supportive community. One Stop Shopping for Patrons Work on the joint service desk is continuing rapidly. Two major timeline dates have been established. Express (self-service) hold pick up will be implemented on March 17th. Patrons will be able to pick up their own holds and check them out on the self- check machines. This will save time for both patrons and staff. The implementation of the Main Information Desk will be April 15th. Various staff has been assigned to implement various portions of the move: weeding of materials, arrangement of computers behind the desk, etc. In the meantime, reference staff is being trained in circulation functions and the circulation staff is being trained in reference functions, so that they can work as a. team on the service desk. 1 480 Primrose Road•Burlingame•California 940ro-4o83 Phone(650)558-7474'Fax(650)342-6295'www.burlingame.org/library Self Check Machines The location of the self-check machines has been moved to the lobby to make a great impact on the public. We are planning to order another self check machine to be housed in the lobby as well. Our current self check use is about 70%; we are hoping to raise that to 85% in the coming year. Online Catalog Computers in Lobby Two online catalog computers will be added to the lobby of the main library. These can be used for quick checks of what is available in the library and in the Peninsula Library System. They can also be used for patrons to pay fines and fees. Library Newsletter Mailed - A newsletter was mailed to the 94010 zip code regarding library use, programs and proposed reductions in service. Foundation Report The Foundation held their annual meeting in February and approved gifts to the Library for collections and programming for calendar year 2009. The Foundation will also be looking at fundraising issues for their three major programs this year: 3rd Annual Author's Luncheon, Spring Book Sale and Garden Party Tour (August). All events will be focused on raising funds during this difficult year. Sponsorship letters have been mailed to over 300 potential event sponsors to underwrite the Author's Luncheon. The Foundation Advisory Board met together recently to bring them up to date on what is going on with the Foundation and the Library and to enlist their support in fundraising during this difficult year. Former Foundation board members will play an important role in fundraising. Foundation Book Sale The semi-annual Foundation Book Sale will be held in the Lane Community Room, April 23rd-April 26th. The sale kicks off on Thursday, April 23rd, 4 PM-7 PM; Friday, 4 PM- 7 PM; Saturday, 10 AM-4PM; Sunday, 1 PM-4 PM. The book sale raises as much as $ 25,000 a year for library programs and collections. Upcoming Events • March 12, Foundation Board Meeting, 5:30 PM • March 13, Commissioner's Dinner, Rocca's, Broadway • March 17, Library Board Meeting, 5:30 PM • April 12-18, National Library Week • April 21, Library Board, 5:30 PM • April 25, Library Issues Breakfast, featuring Joe Simitian, • April 23-26, Foundation Spring Book Sale • May 5, Storm Drain Measure final date • May 9, Third Annual Author Luncheon, Dominic's at Popular Creek; 11:30 AM • May 19, Library Board, 5:30 PM 2 Easton Branch Status Report March 10, 2009 z w +1YF^ i a 5 Current Library • The current branch highlights include: • 1,225 linear feet of shelving • 33 reader seats • 8 public computers • 18,000 circulating items Library Hours: 30 open hours per week • Monday-Thursday, 2 PM- 8 PM • Friday 8, Saturday, 2 PM- 5 PM • Sunday, Closed Library Use: Circulation & Traffic Library use has tripled at the Easton Branch since the reopening in 2004. Traffic and �. circulation continue to rise for the popular branch. Use statistics are attached to this 1 report. Current circulation of materials is up 14% over last year. In 1999, before renovation, the library circulated 25,000 materials, they now circulation nearly 85,000. Cost to Run Easton Branch The branch library is generally staffed by two paraprofessional staff, or a paraprofessional staff and one page. Oversight is provided either by a paraprofessional or a librarian. The Easton Branch costs $119,000.00 per year to operate, or about $ 3,300 per open hour annually. This is less than 2% of the overall library budget. Budget Breakdown • Staffing $ 3,300 per hour open per year • Materials $ 20,000 (would be purchased for main, if branch not open) • Facility Costs Factored into city's facilities budget Background of Library Building The City of Burlingame purchased the current Easton Branch Library building from North Burlingame Women's Club in 1947 to serve as a branch of the Burlingame Public Library. The original building served as a community center and women's club since its construction in 1927 in the "Pueblo Mission" style popular at the time. The 2,800 foot building served as the city's branch library from 1947 to the present day, serving not only the immediate neighborhood, but those who prefer a branch library experience. History of Library Service In 1977, after the passage of the California Constitutional (tax) Amendment, Proposition 13, city revenues plummeted. Among the many reductions for the Library was the proposed closure of the Easton Branch. In fact, the branch did close for a period of 6 months while the City decided on its fate. After a thorough citizen's review, the City Council voted to reopen the Easton Branch to a relieved group of library users. In 2001, after a routine building inspection, it was noted that the building had significant dry rot and termite damage, particularly in the west wall of the building. The decision to repair the building was placed on hold until a very generous community gift from the Thomas Z. Marshall Trust was given to the Library Board of Trustees. The Trustees recommended a renovation of the library building to the City Council. The City Council agreed to go forward with the project with the private funds. An additional $ 552,000 was raised by the community and the Burlingame Library Foundation to complete the work. The Library was closed for a year while the work was completed. Work was completed by architect Dahanukar Brandes, Mill Valley and interiors by Michelle Nelson, Craftsman Home, Berkeley. D.L. Falk was the general contractor. It was re-opened and re-dedicated in October 2004. 2 Major Donors �- Major private donors to the project included: Thomas Z. Marshall Trust; Roger and Jean Hunt Duncan Trust; Burlingame Library Foundation; and hundreds of community members. 3