Burlington Library Association
Meeting Minutes
Regular: 1/11/06 12/14/05 11/9/05 10/12/05 9/14/05 8/24/05 4/13/05 3/9/05 2/9/05
Burlington Library Board and Library Association
Joint Meeting
January 11, 2006
Call to Order: 6:45 pm
Place: BPL Community Room
Attendance: Len Berton, Beryl Chard, Jenny Mantel, Sanford Mazeau, Pat Miller, Gjyl Mustafa-Kozlu, Marie Purcell, Mike Ragaisis, Kim Robinson, Pat Small, Carol Troiani, Anne Walluk
Library Association President Len Berton opened the meeting by reviewing the agenda and a discussion of strategic goals.
A brainstorming session followed with the following discussed.
Members discussed whether a Needs Assessment would be helpful. Walluk
mentioned the following things that would probably be needed by the library:
Large program space
Small meeting rooms
Storage for multimedia materials
Study Areas
Reading Room
Larger children's area
Larger history room
More space for staff
All the above would require more staffing. The discussion also revolved around the possibility of having a Community Center attached to the library and some of the above spaces mentioned could be shared. * Having a Community Center with the library was one of the goals from the first planning session.
Mazeau mentioned that the capital fund and Main Fund from the Library Association had balance of approximately $19,000. This could possibly help fund a study and a strategic plan.
A discussion followed about long-range planning so that the town would know the boards are very interested in the community center concept. This would save the town money if the expansion of the library could be financially combined with the community center. Having a CC adjacent to or next to the library was one of the goals from the first planning session. Either an integrated building, or at least a heated/cooled connection between the structures would be desirable. A long term goal was discussed about helping the Town management understand that the CC next to or adjacent to ( NOT PART OF ) the library would be beneficial.
Walluk said that the state runs workshops on planning and she would check into this. Miller is willing to attend a workshop at a later date.
The members felt the next step was to develop an Action Plan for long- range planning.
1) A subcommittee was set up with: Mazeau, Berton, Miller, Small, Ragaisis.
2) This committee will determine how many surveys will be sent out, content,
etc.
3) Walluk will give the committee samples of other surveys.
4) The surveys can use different media such as on-line, paper, telephone, etc.
The survey will be included in the May Library Newsletter.
5) The target date for the committee to finish the survey is Feb. 1, 2006
Another goal from the first planning sessions was discussed. How do the boards get more support from the town?
A short-term goal was discussed. Should board members ask to be on the agenda at a Selectmen's meeting? What would be brought to this meeting? Should a letter be written and signed by board members concerning issues? Should we ask the Board of Finance to hold a meeting at the library? Much discussion followed.
Berton asked if anyone would like to serve on a second committee. At this time no one wanted to do this until the first committee finished the survey.
Association Board members were invited to attend the Tuesday, January 17th meeting if Ted Scheidel is coming to discuss the State of the Town. Walluk will notify members if Scheidel is planning to attend.
Meeting Adjourned: 9:30 pm
Respectfully submitted,
Jenny Mantel
Recording Secretary
Meeting called to order by President Len Berton at 7:47 pm . Members in attendance were Berton, Mazeau, Merriman, Miller, Ragaisis, Small, Walluk, Winter.
Correspondence: Reviewed thank you note from Friends of Sessions Woods for contribution from this Board in consideration of the use of Sessions Woods meeting hall for the November Library Seminar.
Secretary Report: Miller moved to accept the minutes of the November 5 board meeting. Motion second by Winter. Motion approved
Treasurer Report; Mazeau stated income for current year is $ 600 over projection. Board has received 3 additional contributions in past month which are not yet reflected in the income. A landscaping bill is still outstanding. Walluk moved the report be accepted. Miller provided the second. Motion approved
Librarian Report: Walluk stated the the Leatherman Program has been confirmed
for the annual meeting. The presenter will offer the program at no charge.
PowerPoint program projection equipment will be required. Program is scheduled
for May 17 -the 3rd Weds. In May. Annual meeting is usually the 2nd Weds. In
May. A discussion ensued, final plan TBD.
Discussion of museum passes including various attraction highlights vs.
popularity and patronage:
#1 Science Center, #2 Wadsworth Atheneum, #3 Mystic Aquarium
#4 N. B. Museum of American Art #5 Mashantucket Pequot Museum
Discussion indicated that Peabody at Yale and Eric Carle passes have a history
of patronage that is inadequate but the passes should be continued. The Air
Museum is important. Florence Griswald Museum under consideration.
Total cost of current pass program is $995.
Webmaster: Berton reported; New member P. Small added to site. November minutes on site. Need of R. Merriman photo. Need photo of new library staff associate Sara Lopresti.
Old Business; Berton, Small, Walluk provided great effort working on contributor mailing for end of year donors. Mail to 104 regular members, 15 Life Members. Discussion of joint meeting with Library Board of Directors scheduled for January 11, 2006. Meeting plan: fast food at 6:00 pm and meeting start at 6:30pm . Mazeau suggested a meeting topic of a funding campaign for a survey of library expansion needs . Miller provided in-depth web-based information on the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving funding of a needs survey for the Richmond Memorial Library in Marlborough, CT. Ragaisis reminded the board of its previous interest in the goal of Diverse Funding-Revenue for the library ( action item 4A from the joint library seminar ) for a topic at upcoming January 11 meeting. There was further discussion of library expansion and of a potential Community Center.
New Business: Members should make every effort to attend Town Economic Development Meeting Monday December 19, 2005 at 7 pm
Meeting adjourned at 8:57pm
Respectfully submitted, P. Michael Ragaisis
The meeting was called to order by President Berton at 7:35 pm. In attendance were L. Berton, S. Mazeau, P. Miller, M. Ragaisis, A. Walluk, G. Mustafa-Kozlu, N. Winter. Visitors this evening were Bob Merriman, Pat Small and Trish Hart.
Correspondence: Received solicitation from a Jazz Band & sent email declining their offer.
Secretary's Report: Miller moved to accept the minutes from the last meeting, Ragaisis seconded. Motion approved.
Treasurer's Report: As of November 8th, everything is up to date. For the end of year income there will be $28,000. We are over in everything except for dues. If we are to receive an additional $4,500.00 in donations we will be doing very well. A letter will go out to past members who have not yet sent in a donation this year. Berton wrote a letter last year, and has offered to do so again this year.
It was suggested that a separate letter go out to the 15 Life Members who contributed last year to ask for a donation. Berton was not comfortable with sending a letter out to Life Members since they are not expected to continue contributing. Mazeau suggested sending them a letter with a sample budget for review, as well as telling them about all the good things we have done for the library. Mazeau will draft this letter for the next meeting so that we can all vote on sending it or not.
The bake sales this year brought in $854.00, and the Book Sales brought in almost $5,000.00. The Sonny and Perley concert did not do so well, bringing in $429.00. Please refer to the treasurer's report for further detail. Winter moved to accept the treasurer's report, Ragaisis seconded. Motion approved.
Librarian's Report: Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme has passes available for $100.00. People who like art find this museum a gem. We have passes to the Wadsworth and New Britain and they get little activitiy. The Science Center pass has always been $200.00 for four people. That has now changed to $100.00 for one person. Imagination in Bristol has passes available. The discounts are not as attractive as they once were. Passes are restricted to Burlington residents because the Friends pay for them out of their budget. A survey is conducted yearly to determine which passes circulate and which do not. Anne will have a staff member do an analysis and report.
Web Master: Added minutes approved at the last meeting. Sonny and Perley concert photos are on the web site.
Old Business:
1) Sonny and Perley Concert: The concert had 28 patrons. There were tickets sold, but we had some no shows. It was felt that the weather played a role in keeping some people away. This was the first time it was not held in the library. It was a disappointment because in the past we had to turn people away because there wasn't enough room in the library although it was very well publicized. It took Winter five months to organize the event. She suggested that for next year we keep the event at the library, since it's not worth all the trouble to have it off site. Discussed the demographics of the local community. Thank you notes to be sent out to Ron Provost and to the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department. Mustafa-Kozlu will compose a draft for Berton's review before sending them out.
2) Examples of some events for the Burlington Bicentenial:
* February: Dr. Carlson, Nepaug Dam
* March: Heather Munroe Prescott will do something on the women of Burlington.
* April: A presentation of the stone walls.
* May: Tom Turek, History of the Tavern
3) We need the name of the person who will do a presentation on the Leatherman at the annual meeting in May. We also need to know the cost. If he is $300.00 or less, the group voted to have him present. Ragaisis moved to agree to spend $300.00 or less, Winter seconded. Motion approved.
4) Pie Sale: This year the Pie Sale brought in $450.00. The pies were sold out by noon. Participation was at its lowest this year. Some people who had offered to make pies did not. To keep a track of sign up sheets, Winter would like a tally sheet to prove who brought in something that was promised. Walluk gave WInter a small box of Godiva chocolates to show her appreciation.
5) In response to a proposal received by the Library Board, the Friends are not interested in purchasing solar panels for the library at this time. It would take 18 to 20 years to get money back on initial investment. The group felt that if the investment paid itself back in less than 5 years, then it could make sense. There is an interest in looking at the current heating and cooling system to see how it can be made more efficient.
6) The Book Sale had one bounced check by an out of state patron. It was recommended that for future sales, a driver's license be requested for out of state checks (to get phone number and address).
7) Pat Small to join the Friends Board. She has been a Burlington resident for the past 18 years. After retiring, she joined the library as a volunteer upstairs; now she is downstairs at the book sale. She currently holds a position as Treasurer for the Historical Society. Miller moved to nominate Pat Small to the Board, Winter seconded. Motion approved.
8) Bob Merriman, a Life Member and frequent visitor at our meetings, was proposed as an Honorary Board Member by Mazeau. Winter moved to nominate Bob, Miller seconded. Motion approved.
9) Strategic Planning Meeting: Mazeau moved that we donate $100.00 to Sessions Woods for the use of their facility. Walluk seconded. Motion approved. There was a feeling of dissatisfaction. Facilitator spent more time talking about herself. The meeting however did bring the two library boards together. By meeting together, there was a feeling that there is a bigger picture out there. Small suggested that we invite groups from town to visit the library and make presentations. Ragaisis suggested that we as a group need to brainstorm to figure out how to hook people in to see us from the other groups within the community. A document was produced after the meeting; Ragaisis asked where do we go from here using this document? It does reflect three to four themes we are thinking about. The Community Center was of mutual interest for both groups. It was suggested that we combine the two groups' strengths to work together. Berton proposed that we have a joint meeting of the groups to discuss the issues. Walluk suggested the second Wednesday in January. It will be a combination Pot Luck Dinner and Strategic Planning. It was suggested that we begin at 7:00 p.m. Ragaisis, Miller, and Mazeau will carry this invitation to their next Library Board meeting.
Meeting was adjourned at 9:55.
October 12, 2005:
The meeting was called to order by President Berton at 7:35 pm. In attendance
were L. Berton, S. Mazeau, P. Miller, M. Ragaisis, A. Walluk, G. Mustafa-Kozlu.
Visitors this evening were Bob Merriman and Pat Small.
Correspondence: Received thank you note from Eileen Rubino.
Secretary's Report: Walluk moved to accept the minutes from the last meeting , Mazeau seconded. Motion approved.
Treasurer's Report: To date, income is over budget for Vanguard and the History Room. Income may be over budget for the year and our expenses may be under budget for the year. The used book sales in the main library have brought in $1,000.00 to date. There is still $2,000.00 available for equipment. To date, there are 184 donors. Please refer to the treasurer's report for further detail. Miller moved to accept the treasurer's report, Mustafa-Kozlu seconded. Motion approved.
Librarian's Report: New person on staff. Sara Lopresti began in October filling the vacant clerk position. Her background is in graphic design. She is interested in pursuing a degree in library studies. Berton requested picture for website.
Web Master: Berton to put a Sonny and Perley announcement on the website.
Old Business: Several topics covered:
1) Sonny and Perley Concert: Mailing went out Friday October 7th. To date, 25 tickets were sold. Walluk stated that there may be lighting need, she had researched some options, but thinks we may have to rent them. Robinson left a message to let us know that her father-in-law played a demo on his radio show.
2) Fall Pie Sale: 25 pies signed up for donations. Some may bring two pies. In the past, there were usually 40 pies to sell. Mazeau to receive pies on Saturday morning and help sell them. There are five people available to help sell the pies.
3) Book Sale: All is set into motion for the sale.
4) Retreat: Questionnaire for the facilitator distributed; they need to be returned to Walluk by October 22. The retreat is scheduled for Wednesday, November 2nd at 6:00. The facilitator is Susan Dantino, Associate Dean of Institutional Planning and Effectiveness. Ms. Dantino requested a mission statement, as well as learning all of our current or past professions. The technique she uses is Appreciative Inquiry (IA). Rather than be paid directly, she would accept a donation. She will be paid with an honorarium. The group proposed $250.00, Mazeau moved to accept, Walluk seconded. Motion approved.
New Business: There are two board vacancies available, we are looking for qualified people to fill them.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:55.
September 14, 2005:
The meeting was called to order by President Berton at 7:40 pm. In attendance
were L. Berton, S. Mazeau, M. Ragaisis, N. Winter, A. Walluk, G. Mustafa-Kozlu,
and K. Robinson. P. Miller was traveling. Visitors this evening were Bob
Merriman, Priscilla Bown, and Sia Bauer.
Correspondence: Received form to renew membership in Friends of CT Libraries. Berton gave updated form to Walluk who will complete the form, and send it in with a dues check. The rest was solicitations to sell materials.
Secretary's Report: Mazeau moved to accept the minutes from the August 24 meeting, Ragaisis seconded. Motion approved.
Treasurer's Report: Little activity since last meeting. To date, donors are up by 250 compared to last year. If donor activity continues the way it has been in prior years, we should expect to see $27,000.00. Please refer to the treasurer's report for further detail. Winter moved to accept the report, Robinson seconded. Motion approved.
Librarian's Report: Little activity since last meeting.
Web Master: Little activity since last meeting. List of 2005 Life Members added to the website. Walluk requested some changes to be made on the home page. She would like to have information on activities listed at top rather than having to scroll down. Berton will make the changes.
Old Business: Big topic of the evening, the Sonny and Perley concert. The theme for the evening is "I'll Take Romance". The concert is to focus on the many facets of love. They are charging $450.
Main concern was the advertising. Walluk had looked into taking out an ad in the Foothills Trader and the Yankee Flyer. She found the cost would be too expensive, the group agreed. A press release needs to go out to area radio and television stations. Small posters will be posted around town as well as neighboring towns.
Don Provost, who is the sponsor from the firehouse, will help set up the sign. We need to contact him to set up a day and time.
Robinson stressed that we should make a point that this event is not a library function, but rather a fundraiser. Point well received. She also said that she has contacted her father-in-law, Dick Robinson, to mention the concert on his weekly radio show.
The group agreed that the price for tickets would be $12.00 for advance tickets, and $15.00 at the door. Checks for the advance tickets should be dropped off or sent to the library.
Winter expressed her discomfort in charging for refreshments. The group agreed. She volunteered to organize the refreshments. She will present a fall theme, and will request various bakers from the group to follow her lead.
Berton will take on the responsibility for publicity. Walluk will take on the responsibility of tickets plus the posters. Requests for more help will be conveyed through e-mail contact.
Other Old Business:
Eileen Rubino was very active before she left the Friends Board. Winter passed around a card for all to sign. She will present Eileen with a gift of two gardening books and sing her a song she wrote for the occasion.
Pie Sale: Winter will be organizing the Pie Sale. Rebecca Calvo will assist her in selling the pies. The pie sale will be October 23, 10:00 a.m. 'til gone.
Used book sale is scheduled: October 20, 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. October 21 and 22, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Early bird sale will be on the 20th, a $4.00 fee will be collected at the door on that day only. On October 22, it is $5.00 for a bag all day. Jenny Mantel will be organizing the sale.
Retreat: There is no date for the retreat at this time. Ragaisis, who also sits on the appointed Library Board of Directors as well as the Friends of the Library, presented an outline on what he feels the two boards should focus on at the retreat. He feels that we should be armed and ready with an agenda. [See addendum below for his notes.]
Retirement: A. Walluk will be retiring in June. Ragaisis said that there is a selection committee of the Town Board which will be involved in the interviewing and evaluating the candidates for the position. He asked if anyone wanted to be considered to join this panel. Robinson expressed interest.
New Business: Ann Mazeau suggested the Leatherman as a topic for the next annual meeting in May, which would tie in to the Historical Society's preparation for the Bicentennial. It was necessary to put this on the 2006 calendar of events now, so after emailing the Board, Walluk did so.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m.
ADDENDUM: Notes from Ragaisis on "Retreat" Topics
Library Board of Directors -- Coaching Seminar Agenda ideas
Increase the Board of Directors power, passion, enthusiasm
Power = town survey, program / material selection, patron contact
Passion = meet changing patron behavior / needs and media
Enthusiasm = IS the town cultural center, 21 st century programs and funding
Budget " locked - in " by Town Boards ( do municipal boards really have time to read our handout materials) and a few distorted perceptions of a information age facility and its staffing requirements
funding roadblocks; Town Library gets < 1.5 % of Region 10 funding, town's small industrial /commercial base, adjacent "big' libraries
Town Growth / Expansion
o library role
o Town-Wide Support: Town Survey / Planning Committee
o Community Center??
o 2005 Summer programs received commercial support!
o Library 10 yr. Plan ??
o Largest customer focused endeavor in Burlington (excluding the town government-residents)
o more patrons/ "customers" than all the schools
o Library Expansion or future regional libraries ??
o 21st Century Funding Ideas
August 24, 2005: Len Berton called the meeting to order at 7:35. Board members Sandy Mazeau, Anne Walluk, Kim Robinson, Nancy Winter, Mike Ragaisis and Pat Miller were present. Priscilla Bown, Sia Bauer and Bob Merriman also attended.
Correspondence:
Thank you note from Mary Rose Fiore for refreshments provided for the Senior
Book Club program.
FOCL Point - state friends newsletter.
Minutes: A motion was made by Anne Walluk; seconded by Nancy Winter to accept the minutes from the April meeting. Accepted.
Treasurer's Report:
Sandy will send letters to those who contributed to Kathy Smith's retirement
party (if their total contributions for the year exceed $250) stating it was not
a charitable donation -
Contributions are down as well as expenses. To date the total number of donors
is 181. Donations picked up at the end of last year, totaling 250.Under Income,
there is a line item "Contributions - Designated $3,000" This was
actually a grant. Len requested that it be clearly shown as a grant category in
both expenditures and contributions.
Librarian's Report:
Coming Attractions Video store donated 7 sections of slat rack shelving - will
be used for the book sale in the basement. Anne also purchased used videos 2/$5
for a total of $170.
The library received a large donation of books from an estate. (40 boxes)
Tavern Day, this year the friends will not be opening the schoolhouse as in the
past but will definitely be present at the bicentennial next year. It will
require a volunteer to attend the Chamber of Commerce meetings next summer.
Books for Babies: Someone is needed to combine the national programs brochures
and inserts into the Burlington library's own plastic bags. Kim volunteered.
Webmaster Report:
By-law amendments were added. Board member changes along with pictures of
individual board members were added. The navigation links were reorganized in
the left border. Life members were listed. Anne's new pictures of Library
replaced old homepage image. Two new museums added to Passes. Staff pictures
updated. Averaging 2 hits per day.
Old Business:
Sonny & Perley Concert. Scheduled for Friday, October 14. at the firehouse.
Need to determine the room capacity, the seating arrangement, refreshments and
cost of tickets. There was a discussion on advertising the event - flyer, radio
ads, Tri-town ad. A motion was made, seconded and accepted to spend up to $600
over the actual cost of Sonny & Perley Concert.
New Business:
Bicentennial: The Saturday before Tavern Day in 2006 there will be a parade. It was suggested that we enter 10 book trucks -that could be decorated.
Motion was made by Pat Miller, seconded by Mike Ragaisis to spend $75 on a book as a thank you gift for Eileen Rubino. She has contributed a lot of time and effort to the used book sales over the years. Nancy volunteered to purchase and present it.
Pie Sale - Oct 22. Nancy will organize it.
Landscaping - Bob Merriman has suggested that the trees/ junipers be pruned. He has offered the services of his grandchildren. There is money in the budget to pay them.
Retreat - Bob Merriman has suggested that the board is at a point where the members would benefit from a "retreat" whose goals would be long-term strategic planning for the Boards' future directions. We could extend an invitation to the appointed Library Board of Directors and perhaps past board officers/members. It could be a week night from 5-8 with a certified moderator - Susan Dantino has agreed to moderate in return for a donation to a scholarship fund at Tunxis Community College. There would also be a small charge for the informational packets and food. Preferably it would be held in October or November. Sessions Woods and Main Street Foundation were suggested as possible locations. This would be an opportunity to explore the direction of library services in the future.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 pm
April 13, 2005: The meeting was called to order by President Berton at 7:40 pm. In attendance were Berton, Mazeau, Miller, Ragaisis, Winter, Walluk, and Mustafa-Kozlu. Nancy Winter was kind enough to share homemade hermits and strawberries with the group this evening.
There was no correspondence to report this evening. Made change to minutes from last month's meeting, changed "wonder" to "wonderful". Miller moved, Winter seconded. Motion approved.
Treasurer: At the annual meeting we will show 2004 actual income. Draft of 2005 to be approved at annual meeting. $500 will be moved from equipment to the history room, making the budget for the history room $1,500.00. In 2004, the group spent $16,000.00 rather than $22,000. due to the increase in donations. Please refer to the treasurer's report for further detail. Walluk moved to accept the treasurer's report, Winter seconded. Motion approved.
Librarian's Report: Library has passes to the Eric Carle museum. Currently working on obtaining passes to the Peabody museum. A brochure is being worked on to list all the museum passes available at the library.
Ann Mazeau needs all the surveys regarding the Bicentenial to be returned to her as soon as possible. An 18-month Burlington calendar with all relevant activities on it is currently being put together. This needs to be completed in the next three weeks to get it to the printer. One of the issues regarding scheduling activities is when to hold all the events. Some ideas being worked on: Thorsen to talk about stone walls. Carlson to talk about the Historical Society. History of the Tavern and History of the Women of Burlington.
Web Master: March meeting minutes posted on the web site. Future meeting minutes will be posted as well. Nancy gave Len pictures from the Black Forest Bake Sale to post. New link with college scholarships is now posted. Currently, there are two hits a day.
Old Business: Sonny and Perley have been booked for Friday, October 14, 2005. A decision needs to made if they are to perform at the library or elsewhere. A decision also needs to be made if there is to be a charge to patrons, or will it be an open event. Winter will talk with Marianne Schwarzman to see if the event could be held at the firehouse. Coffee and light refreshments will be served at the performance.
Used book sale is scheduled: April 28, 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. April 29 and 30, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Volunteers are needed. Several members of the group offered their time. Walluk took names and will pass on names and phone numbers to Alice Taricani who is coordinating volunteers for the book sale.
Annual newsletter has been sent to the printer, once they are ready Walluk will contact Board members to stuff envelopes to get them out before the annual meeting.
New Business: Walluk is currently planning a retirement lunch for Kathleen Smith. The luncheon buffet is scheduled for Sunday, May 22, 2005, 12:00 - 3:00 at the library. The guest list will include the following: Town Hall staff, Town Selectmen, Friends of the Library, past and present staff members of the library, and some of her friends and family. There will be a RSVP for the luncheon, and a charge of $15.00 for lunch per person and a donation of $10.00 for a retirement gift. Walluk asked if the association could pay for the invitations, which are estimated to cost $175.00. Miller moved to approve to pay up to $200.00 for the invitations, Ragaisis seconded. Motion approved.
New Business: Three terms are expiring next month, Berton, Ragaisis and Mazeau. All three have expressed an interest to continue in their current positions. These will be voted on at the annual meeting next month. Terms begin and end at annual meetings, that is why a vote is needed at the meeting. Gjyl Mustafa-Kozlu was elected to take on the Secretary position; she will complete Anne Walluk's term (one year). Berton moved to approve, Winter seconded. Motion approved.
In preparation for next month's annual meeting, the Board feels that a recap of the past year's accomplishments should be presented. Berton will put together a report of the successes and where we're going. He will draft ideas and ask for feedback from the Board. He will also talk about shifting of funds, the History Room, landscaping cost, computer cost, etc. An agenda for the annual meeting will be put together by Anne.
Berton found a conflict in the bylaws recently. He asked the Board if changes
could be made as follows:
IV. Section 2. "All of the Directors shall be elected for a term of three
years."
changed to
"Each of the Directors shall be elected for a three year term at an
annual
meeting by a simple majority of members present."
V. Section 1. " who shall be elected bi-annually for a term of two (2)
years by the Directors from among the Board of Directors."
changed to
" who shall be elected by a simple majority bi-annually for a term of
two
years by the Directors from among the Board of Directors. In the event of a
vacancy during the term of any officer, the Board will elect a replacement
for that officer to serve for the balance of the term."
Walluk moved to approve the changes, Miller seconded. Motion approved.
Section 2. "At the annual meeting, the nomination committee will present
a
slate of officers to be voted upon by the general membership. The
President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer shall perform such
duties and assume such responsibilities as normally develop upon their
office"
changed to
"At the annual meeting, the nominating committee will present a slate of
officers to be voted upon by the Board. The President, Vice-President,
Secretary and Treasurer shall perform such duties and assume such
responsibilities as normally devolve upon their office"
Mazeau moved to approve the change, Ragaisis seconded. Motion approved.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Meeting was called to order by President Berton at 7:00 p.m. Please see enclosed sign up sheet for attendees.
Association Board of Directors: Berton and Ragaisis were re-elected for 3-year terms.
Secretary's Report: Anne Walluk read the minutes from the 2004 annual meeting. Dale Sheehan made a motion to approve.
Treasurer's Report: Sanford Mazeau gave an overview of the 2004 final income and spending, and the 2005 proposed Budget. He explained that for the 2004 budget year, the Association met its financial targets. There was an increase in private contributions There was no deficit spending and all goals were reached. A town-wide notice was sent out to solicit contributions, and a second notice sent out later to those who had donated before. Contributions to designated areas are doing well. In the town survey completed a while back, the library was the most popular destination for Burlington residents. Terry Foley moved that the the 2004 final results be accepted, Kim Robinson seconded, and the motion was approved. A motion was made by Dale Sheehan for the acceptance of the 2005 Budget; Mike Ragaisis seconded, and the motion was approved.
See Treasurer's Report for more details.
Librarian's Report: Anne Walluk spoke about Kathy Smith and her tenure at Burlington Library. Anne said Kathy was a great asset to the libray and "Thanks for general support and contributions". Congratulations to Kathy Smith for her retirement to the Berkshires.
Introduction of Officers and overview of activities and accomplishments since the last Annual Meeting: President Len Berton introduced the board members: Kim Robinson, Gjyl Mustafa-Kozlu, Nancy Winter, Sandy Mazeau, Anne Walluk and Mike Ragaisis.
President Berton gave an overview of activities and accomplishments:
* Nine generous donors joined the Life Member plaque.
* Sonny and Perley performed.
* Performance of Celtic music.
* Parker Trust funded the music center.
* 30 members for the Birthday Club.
* Donated funds for 3 computers.
* $4700.00 raised in used book sales and bake sales.
* $2,000.00 spent on cd's and books.
* $1,600.00 spent on mulching and landscaping.
* $6,000.00 spent on books for the history room.
* Museum passes.
* Website has had two visits daily for two years.
* Funding for books decreased due to other priorities.
A move to adjourn was made by Nancy Winter, Kim Robinson seconded; approved.
Minutes Meeting held March 9, 2005
The meeting was called to order by President Berton at 7:35pm. In attendance were Berton, Mazeau, Rubino, Miller, Ragaisis, Walluk, Mustafa-Kozlu, and Robinson. Winter was absent. George Morants attended a guest. Also attending was Ann Mazeau, Local History Specialist at the Library. Ann discussed the Town bicentennial that will be celebrated in 2006. She reviewed a number of activities that could occur as part of the year-long celebration and asked for the "Friends" support. She also asked that members check and return an activity poll.
Correspondence: Mazeau reported that we received a letter from the IRS. It
was the standard letter asking us if the organization is still in existence. We
do not file income tax since we do not have an annual income of $25,000 or over.
Walluk reported that the Association had received a thank you note from Kristine
David, wife of the late Peter David who was honored by the Association by
placing his name on our Memorial Plaque.
Minutes: Walluk noted that a correction should be made in the name Neil Beup.
Under treasurer's report the second paragraph was changed to read: The book
budget was reduced due to the need for computers, shelving and other necessary
equipment for the library. We hope that the Town budget can address the
Association's shortfall .Motion was moved by Walluk to accept as changed,
seconded by Ragaisis. Motion approved.
Treasurer: The $3000 grant from the Parker Trust was deposited. The budget for 2005 was discussed and approved for the annual meeting in May. (Motion Rubino, 2nd by Miller)
Librarian's report: Walluk said that Neil Beup of the Town Economic Development Commission has agreed to be the guest speaker at the Annual Meeting. She also asked for approval to expand the museum pass program to include the Eric Carle Museum. The Board agreed and also approved the Peabody Museum after additional discussion.
Webmaster's report: Berton reported that he made a number of changes in the site. The CCIC college resource link was added to the Resource Center page. Notice of the Annual Meeting was posted. Betsy Francischelli was removed from the Board page and a footnote inserted. Anne's photos of the Keith Johnson performance and the Morrissey painting were added. The museum page was updated to reflect the latest changes, and all the links to their own web sties were checked and corrected as needed. Old news items were deleted. The hit counter reached 2546, which continues to average 2 per day.
OLD BUSINESS: 1) The Black Forest Bake Sale raised $413. Volunteers like Nancy Winter, George Morants and all the volunteer bakers did a wonderful job. 2) Used book sale will be publicized as April 28-30. 3) Sonny Daye called to inquire if we would like to book the group for a return performance. We decided to try for October, and will discuss the details concerning venue and tickets later.
NEW BUSINESS: The annual newsletter is almost complete. Len has prepared a President's Message and Sandy has submitted a piece about the different funds and how an individual can donate. Len will attempt to get the logo art work from Sir Speedy in Avon.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:12PM.
Respectfully submitted
Anne Walluk
Secretary
The meeting was called to order by President Berton at 7:39 p.m. In attendance were Berton, Ragaisis, Mazeau, Miller, Mustafa-Kozlu, Robinson and Winter.
Correspondence: Len spoke with Betsy regarding her staying on the board. Due to her schedule she is unable to continue on. Len asked if a letter could be sent thanking her for her services. Mazeau moved to accept, Winter seconded, and the motion was approved.
Ragaisis reported that Jim McKusker met with the Library Board of Directors in December 2004. He is proposing to create a Burlington Community Center. He asked for library support. The Library Board agreed to support the Community. This point in time it is just information, we do not have to take any action now.
Secretary's Report: Mazeau moved to accept minutes of last meeting. Winter seconded. Motion was approved.
Treasurer's Report: Overall the budget is doing well. Will not know final figures 'til May when the Vanguard and Main Street report comes in. Mazeau suggested that the newsletter should state that donators could designate money, otherwise it would go into a general fund for non-specified donations.
The books budget was reduced due to the need for computers, shelving, and other necessary equipment for the library. We hope that the Town budget can address the Association's shortfall.
Mazeau reported that the number of members for 2004 was 250 vs. 268 in 2003. These figures include corporate-matching dues received.
Robinson moved to accept the Treasurer's report; Winter seconded. Motion was approved.
Librarian's Report: Drymounts went to the State and are being displayed. The grant from the Parker Trust needs two signatures; then we will be receiving it, hopefully next week.
Web Report: Deleted old stuff, especially Spring 2004 (not to confuse things). Took out best seller request list. With input from Anne and figures from Sandy's report, brought the "What Have You Done for Me Lately?" up to date. Hit counter reached 2428, which is averaging 2.3 hits per day since the last meeting.
Old Business: Winter discussed plans for the Black Forest Bake Sale. She was very enthusiastic with responses from volunteer bakers. She asked for volunteers from the group to help with the event. George Morants is assisting her by baking and will work at the sale.
New Business: Discussed if we should meet on Sunday instead of Wednesday, nobody was interested in changing the day.
The annual meeting is scheduled for May 11, 2005. Neil Beup will be the guest speaker.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:32.
Minutes of 2004 Annual Meeting
May 12, 2004 (See attendance below)
The 39th Annual Meeting of the Burlington Library Association was held on May 12, 2004 in the Burlington Library Community Room. The meeting was called to order at 8:54 PM. Previous to the meeting the group was entertained by a slide presentation by Dr. Larry Carlton, historian from the Collinsville Historical Museum.
A motion was made by Pat Miller to accept the minutes from the Annual Meeting of 2003 with corrections. Kim Robinson seconded. Approved.
Treasurer Sandy Mazeau distributed handouts illustrating the income/expense report for 2003 and the proposed budget for 2004. He also distributed a "fund accounting" sheet to illustrate the financial stability of the Association's investments and accounts. The income for 2003 was $24,868 and the expenses were $14,278.08. The budget proposal for 2004 was $20,600 that included a 100% increase in the amount spent on books and materials. There is also a small increase in the landscaping budget and the addition of a line for the Local History Room. Robinson moved that we approve the 2003 Actual Budget as presented. Miller seconded. Approved. Rubino moved that we accept the 2004 Budget at presented. Schulz seconded. Approved. Schulz moved that we give the Board the authority to spend any so-called " designated contributions" when the expenditure meets the conditions of the designated contribution and also meets the goals and objectives of the Library Association. Rubino seconded. Approved.
Kathleen Smith moved that the terms of Dawn Markelon and Pat Miller be renewed until 2007. Rubino seconded. Approved.
Miller moved that the following slate of officers be approved. Schulz
seconded. Approved.
President -- Len Berton, Vice President - Kim Robinson, Treasurer -- Sandy Mazeau,
Secretary -- Anne Walluk
Len thanked Betsy and Eileen for serving as officers this past year.
New Business: Walluk asked that the organization start thinking of ideas for the Library's 10th anniversary that comes up in October 2004.
A June meeting will be held at 7:30 in the Library Community Room to discuss ideas for an October celebration.
Attendance (at the business meeting)
Betsy Franciscelli, Kathy Smith, Terry Foley, Ann Mazeau, M.R. Fiore,
Carl Fiore, Len Berton, Bob Merriman, Mike Ragaisis, Barb Schulz, Anne Walluk,
Sandy Mazeau, Pat Small, Pat Miller, Dyrinda Cole & her mom, Eileen Rubino,
Kim Robinson