Library director reports rising program activity, new furniture and steady circulation

The Library Director reported to the Library Board that circulation and physical checkouts remain somewhat below last year but are improving as the library moves into its busiest months.

The director said program statistics are up significantly from last year and flagged several upcoming and recent events: Makerfest, the summer reading program and an event referred to as LCON are expected to drive participation. "Our program stats are obviously way up from last year," the director said, and staff expect those numbers to increase further as summer approaches.

Staff also recapped recent community events. Pet Fest, which included alpacas, was popular and the director described Farm Day at Heritage House as "huge," noting that organizers may need volunteer help for parking and traffic control at future large events.

On facilities, the director reported that new furniture purchased in the current budget has begun arriving. "Our checkout desk arrived today, which was a surprise," the director said, and staff will begin switching connections when logistics allow. The director described the old circulation desk (installed around 2012) as showing peeling veneer and having required repeated temporary repairs; the new desk is expected to be more durable.

The director also said new study booths are scheduled to arrive in May (estimated shipping May 20), a change board members said they were looking forward to.

The board heard no requests for further action on the operational items; the director will return to the board with the full policies document next month after legal review of the approved changes.