News from the Lester Public Library of Rome

Lester Public Library Board Minutes April 8, 2009

TOWN OF ROME LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME 1157 ROME CENTER DRIVE 5:00 PM WEDNESDAY APRIL 8, 2009

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammy Spees, Barb Sparish, Diane Genz, Dave Repinski, Mary Betker

EXCUSED: Pam Hyland

FRIENDS REPRENSENTATION: Jeanne Osgood

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: Mary Ann Benkowski

LIBRARY STAFF: Lore Ponshock, Marilyn Bailey

Meeting was called to order at 5:05 p.m.

CERTIFY POSTINGS: The agenda was faxed on April 1st to the Daily Tribune at 10:40 a.m., Nekoosa Port Edwards Bank at 10:41 a.m., Pritzl’s at10:42 a.m., Rome Town Hall at 10:43 a.m., U.S. Bank at 10:43 a.m. and the Rome Lester Library at 10:44 a.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: D. Repinski moved to accept the minutes of the March meeting; the motion was seconded by D. Genz. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPRVAL: B. Sparish moved to approve the March bills: seconded by T. Spees. Motion approve unanimously.

BUDGET REVIEW 2009: D. Genz moved to approve the 2009 budget through March: the motion was seconded by B. Sparish. Motion approve unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT: Jerry reported that the Library will be receiving $3000 from Wood County for library use by their residents. Jerry and Lore met with Phil McLaughlin concerning what town needs, a library edition might fulfill. The library did not receive the “Stand Up for Rural Wisconsin Award”, but was honored to be nominated. The library Futuring Committee has been formed. They will bring by-monthly recommendations to the board, starting in June with the final in December. Friday’s “ Shopper‘s Guide” will have an add for the “Taste of the Vine” and next week’s issue will contain an add for the Library Summer Program. Jerry and Lore are planning on meeting with the Lesters to update them on happenings and future planning at the library.

FOUNDATION REPORT: Mary Ann Benkowski reported that plans for the “Taste of the Vine” are just about completed. A new design is needed for donated blocks as most of the designated space is used.

FRIENDS REPORT: Jeanne Osgood reported that there are some new people on the Run-Walk committee. Sponsors are being contacted and ordering shirts for the walk will be optional. A musical group will play in the park. The Plant exchange will take place on May 16th from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m.. The Friends meeting will be on May 8th at 8:30 a.m..

LIBRARIAN’S REPORT: Lore reported that the Rome Makers donated $370 to the library from their quilt raffle. April 12 to the 18th is National Library Week. One of the activities is an adult book bingo which they fill out and put in for a random drawing. April 16th is the volunteer recognition breakfast. The Library was able to receive two $25 gifts from the Amazon credit card. With the grant from the Mead Witter Foundation 24 stacking chairs were purchased for the library. Hannah Sutherland has been hired to be the summer intern. D. Genz made a motion to approve the committee reports, seconded by D. Repinski. Motion approved unanimously.

The movie schedule for movies show at the library in May has been posted. In compliance with the fire code the library can accommodate 35 viewers. Jerry will bring the June movie schedule to the May meeting. Wii will be demonstrated at the next meeting.

MEETING DATE: The next meeting will be held on May 13th at 5:00 p.m. at the Lester Library of Rome.

Meeting was adjourned at 5:50 p.m. Motion made by B. Sparish, seconded by D. Repinski. The Motion was unanimously approved.

Respectfully Submitted, Mary Betker

Lester Public Library Board Minutes May 13, 2009

TOWN OF ROME LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME 1157 ROME CENTER DRIVE 5:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2009

ATTENDEES: Mary Betker, Dianne Genz , Jerry Lipski, Tammi Spees, Pam Hyland, Barb Sparish
Excused: Dave Repinski

FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: Jeanne Osgood

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: None

LIBRARY STAFF: Lore Ponshock

Meeting called to order by Jerry Lipski at 5:00 p.m. CERTIFY POSTINGS: Agenda faxed on May 6 to Rome Town Hall at 3:13 p.m., Daily Tribune at 3:13 p.m., US Bank at 3:14 p.m., Nekoosa-Port Edwards Bank at 3:15 p.m. and Pritzl’sTrading Post at 3:15 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: D. Genz motioned to approve the minutes from the April meeting. B. Sparish seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPROVAL: T. Spees motioned to approve the bills for April 16 and April 30. B. Sparish seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BUDGET REVIEW 2009: D. Genz motioned to approve the budget for 2009 through April. M. Betker seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT: J. Lipski reported that the “Taste of the Vine” was outstanding, raising about $6,000 for the Library expansion project. Thank you to all who volunteered their efforts. A letter was sent to the Lester’s and Sigler’s to keep them informed about the Library’s progress. The Futuring Committee continues to meet and will report back next month at the Library Board meeting. The Movie Nights are off and running. T. Spees took the first night and the Library Staff the second. The June schedule is: Thursday, June 4-The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (PG-13), J. Lipski host at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, June 17-Hotel for Dogs (PG) M. Betker host at 6:00 p.m.; and Thursday, June 25-Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG) Library Staff host at 7:00 p.m. There is a group working in the Town of Rome to find a place for a children’s playground and he Library grounds are being considered. In the last Town e-newsletter Phil MacLaughlin reported that the municipal building project was on hold.

FOUNDATION/ FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY REPORT and LIBRARIAN’S REPORT: Foundation Report- M. Betker shared the expense report from the “Taste of the Vine”.

Friends’ Report- J. Osgood reported that there were twenty-four members at the Friend’s annual breakfast meeting on Friday, May 8th. Members are encouraged to sign up to work at the Brat Fry at Camelot on August 15. Granny’s Treasure Nook will be held this year on Saturday, July 18th at the Rome Town Hall. The “Taste of Rome” parade will begin at 11:00 a.m. that day. Volunteers are needed during the preceding week to organize and price items that have been donated.

Librarian’s Report – L. Ponshock submitted a written report. A Thank You note was received for proctoring a test.

T. Spees motioned to accept the reports from May. The motion was seconded by B. Sparish. The motion was approved unanimously.

Wii DEMONSTRATION: Some of the Wii games on the system were demonstrated and attendees took turns attempting the activities.

NEXT AGENDA ITEMS: Report by Futuring Committee, Movie nights

MEETING DATE: The next meeting will be held on June 10th at 5:00 p.m. at the Lester Library of Rome.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m. Motion T. Spees, second B. Sparish. The motion was approved unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

Pam Hyland Secretary

Lester Public Library Board Minutes March 11, 2009

TOWN OF ROME LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME 1157 ROME CENTER DRIVE 5:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2009

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammy Spees, Dianne Genz, Dave Repinski, Mary Betker EXCUSED: Pam Hyland, Barb Sparish FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: Jeanne Osgood FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: Mary Benkowski

Meeting was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Jerry Lipski. Posting of the meeting agenda completed on February 5, 2009: faxed to the Daily Tribune at 10:23 a.m., the Rome Town Hall at 10:24 a.m., the Nekoosa Port Edwards Bank at 10:25 a.m., the US Bank at 10:25 a.m. and Pritzl's at 10:26 a.m.

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: D. Repinski motioned to approve the minutes from the January meeting, seconded by D. Genz. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPROVAL: M. Betker motioned to approve the 2009 bills for January 22nd and February 5th. D. Genz seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously approved.

BUDGET REVIEW: Lore reported to the board that the amount of money carried over into the 2009 budget was $5,800. A motion to approve the budget through January 2009 was made by D. Genz and seconded by D. Repinski. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT: J. Lipski shared that he and Lore would be giving a report on the library to the Town Board on February 12th. He also reported that the Wii system for the library would be ordered soon. Richard Wilkes will build a stand for the new fifty-two inch LCD television. J. Lipski discussed the option of purchasing a license to show movies to larger groups at the library. This would be another opportunity to get people into the library. Another program being considered is a Wii bowling league. The one drawback of both of these programs is that they would need to be held after hours, which would require more staff time. J. Lipski also reported that the library might be able to offer Mystery Shop due to a grant from the Mead Witter Foundation. A daytime performance would be given for students at Alexander Middle School with a nighttime performance at Lake Arrowhead. J. Lipski clarified that this would be a one-time offering, and it would not interfere with future plans for a mystery dinner theater with the Rome Players.

FOUNDATION, FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY AND LIBRARIAN REPORT: Friends report- J. Osgood reported that the Friends held their winter meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for May 9th. The Walk committee will get sponsor letters out soon. This year t-shirts will be optional for purchase, and a grandparent-grandchild walk is also being planned for the event. The committee is planning to promote the library with signs along the walk route. Foundation report- M. Benkowsi shared that the planning for this year’s Taste of the Vine is underway. She reported that more volunteers would be appreciated to help promote the event. She said letters with major sponsors would go our March 1st. Librarian’s report- Lore reported that she was asked to teach knitting and crocheting to students on March 16 during a teen lock-in for the Adams School District. She also reported on a monetary donation given by the Archer Park Association. In addition the Adams-Columbia Electric Cooperative donated the book, Power in Many Hands by Michael J. Goc. A motion to approve the 2009 goals was made by M. Betker, seconded by D. Repinski. Motion unanimously approved.

EVENTS FOR NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK: The Library will plan special activities for patrons during the week of April 12-18.

APPROVE ANNUAL REPORT: Lore reported that the collection of statistics for the report by her and Marilyn went well. A motion to approve Annual Report was made by D. Repinski and seconded by M. Betker. Motion unanimously approved.

LIBRARY EXPANSION: J. Lipski was contacted by Paul Pisellini who suggested the development of a group to look at the possibilities of the library partnering with the town. This group would address building project alternatives now that the town hall project has been rejected. It was discussed that having a plan in place may be helpful if government stimulus money becomes available. J. Lipski entertained a motion to set up a group of volunteers to review the library program statement as well as the needs of the town and to review site possibilities. This group would report back to the town on a quarterly basis. A motion to approve was made by D. Repinski and seconded by M. Betker. Motion unanimously approved.

ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING: Get items for Jerry for the next meeting.

MEETING DATE: The next meeting will be held on March 11 at 5:00 p.m. at the Lester Library of Rome.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:00. Motion made by D. Repinski, seconded by M. Betker. The motion was approved unanimously. Respectfully submitted, Tammy Spees for Pam Hyland, Secretary

Lester Public Library Board Meeting Minutes February 11, 2009

TOWN OF ROME LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME 1157 ROME CENTER DRIVE 5:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2009

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammy Spees, Dianne Genz, Dave Repinski, Mary Betker EXCUSED: Pam Hyland, Barb Sparish FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: Jeanne Osgood FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: Mary Benkowski

Meeting was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Jerry Lipski. Posting of the meeting agenda completed on February 5, 2009: faxed to the Daily Tribune at 10:23 a.m., the Rome Town Hall at 10:24 a.m., the Nekoosa Port Edwards Bank at 10:25 a.m., the US Bank at 10:25 a.m. and Pritzl's at 10:26 a.m.

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: D. Repinski motioned to approve the minutes from the January meeting, seconded by D. Genz. Motion approved unanimously. BILL APPROVAL: M. Betker motioned to approve the 2009 bills for January 22nd and February 5th. D. Genz seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously approved.

BUDGET REVIEW: Lore reported to the board that the amount of money carried over into the 2009 budget was $5,800. A motion to approve the budget through January 2009 was made by D. Genz and seconded by D. Repinski. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT: J. Lipski shared that he and Lore would be giving a report on the library to the Town Board on February 12th. He also reported that the Wii system for the library would be ordered soon. Richard Wilkes will build a stand for the new fifty-two inch LCD television. J. Lipski discussed the option of purchasing a license to show movies to larger groups at the library. This would be another opportunity to get people into the library. Another program being considered is a Wii bowling league. The one drawback of both of these programs is that they would need to be held after hours, which would require more staff time. J. Lipski also reported that the library might be able to offer Mystery Shop due to a grant from the Mead Witter Foundation. A daytime performance would be given for students at Alexander Middle School with a nighttime performance at Lake Arrowhead. J. Lipski clarified that this would be a one-time offering, and it would not interfere with future plans for a mystery dinner theater with the Rome Players.

FOUNDATION, FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY AND LIBRARIAN REPORT: Friends report- J. Osgood reported that the Friends held their winter meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for May 9th. The Walk committee will get sponsor letters out soon. This year t-shirts will be optional for purchase, and a grandparent-grandchild walk is also being planned for the event. The committee is planning to promote the library with signs along the walk route. Foundation report- M. Benkowsi shared that the planning for this year’s Taste of the Vine is underway. She reported that more volunteers would be appreciated to help promote the event. She said letters with major sponsors would go our March 1st. Librarian’s report- Lore reported that she was asked to teach knitting and crocheting to students on March 16 during a teen lock-in for the Adams School District. She also reported on a monetary donation given by the Archer Park Association. In addition the Adams-Columbia Electric Cooperative donated the book, Power in Many Hands by Michael J. Goc. A motion to approve the 2009 goals was made by M. Betker, seconded by D. Repinski. Motion unanimously approved.

EVENTS FOR NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK: The Library will plan special activities for patrons during the week of April 12-18.

APPROVE ANNUAL REPORT: Lore reported that the collection of statistics for the report by her and Marilyn went well. A motion to approve Annual Report was made by D. Repinski and seconded by M. Betker. Motion unanimously approved. LIBRARY EXPANSION: J. Lipski was contacted by Paul Pisellini who suggested the development of a group to look at the possibilities of the library partnering with the town. This group would address building project alternatives now that the town hall project has been rejected. It was discussed that having a plan in place may be helpful if government stimulus money becomes available. J. Lipski entertained a motion to set up a group of volunteers to review the library program statement as well as the needs of the town and to review site possibilities. This group would report back to the town on a quarterly basis. A motion to approve was made by D. Repinski and seconded by M. Betker. Motion unanimously approved.

ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING: Get items for Jerry for the next meeting.

MEETING DATE: The next meeting will be held on March 11 at 5:00 p.m. at the Lester Library of Rome.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:00. Motion made by D. Repinski, seconded by M. Betker. The motion was approved unanimously. Respectfully submitted, Tammy Spees for Pam Hyland, Secretary

Lester Library Board Meeting Minutes, January 14, 2009

TOWN OF ROME

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES

LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME

1157 ROME CENTER DRIVE 5:00 PM, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 14, 2009

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammy Spees, Dianne Genz, Barb Sparish, D. Rapinski, Mary Betker

ABSENT: Pam Hyland

FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: None

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: None

Meeting was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Jerry Lipski.

Posting of the meeting agenda completed on January 12, 2009: faxed to the Daily Tribune at 9:55 a.m., the Nekoosa Port Edwards Bank at 9:56 a.m., the US Bank at 9:57 a.m. and Pritzl,s at 9:58 a.m..

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: B. Sparish motioned to approve the minutes from the December meeting, seconded by T. Spees. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPROVAL: d. Rapinski motioned to approve the 2008 bills for December 12th, 26th, January 8th and the 2009 bill for January 8th. B. Sparish seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously approved.

BUDGET REVIEW: Lore advised the board that the amount of money carried over into the 2009 budget is due to 2008 donations. The exact amount could not be determined as there were some 2008 bills to be paid. A motion to approve the 2008 budget was made by B. Sparish and seconded by D. Rapinski. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT: J. Lipski reported that 2008 was a very good year for the library with large increases in both circulation and the number of new cardholders. Unfortunately because of the economic downturn the building project had to be put on hold. The board will review the situation quarterly and decide when the time right to proceed with the project planning.

FOUNDATION, FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY AND LIBRARIAN REPORT:

No report from the Foundation. Jeanne Osgood was not present, but she reported to J. Lipski that the Friends’ December meeting and tea went very well.

Librarian’s report- Lore reported the person hired to snow plow was doing a good

job and also had helped the ice removal on the walks. The same person will be doing the lawn. There is a problem with the pipes in the bathrooms freezing. Lore is checking on ways to solve this problem.

Pineland School has nominated the Lester library of Rome for an award for “Standing Up for Rural Wisconsin”. It is an honor just to be nominated!

Home Depot has a program, Services for U.S. Communities, that would offer special pricing for library purchases.

APPROVAL OF LIBRARY GOALS 2009: The goals of 2009 were compared to 2008. A motion to approve the 2009 goals was made by M. Betker, seconded by

T. Spees. Motion unanimously approved.

APPROVE CALENDER OF LIBRARY EVENTS: The calendar of library events was printed by South Central and copies will be inserted in the Buyer’s Guide this Friday for a fee of $50. A motion to approve the events calendar was made by T. Spees and seconded by D. Genz. Motion unanimously approved.

ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING: National Library Week is April 12-18, what can we do to celebrated this event.

MEETING DATE: The next meeting will be held on February 11 at 5:00 p.m. at the Lester Library of Rome.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:32. Motion by B. Sparish, seconded by D. Rapinski. The motion was approved unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Betker for Pam Hyland, Secretary

Lester Library Board Meeting Minutes December 10, 2009

TOWN OF ROME LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME 1157 ROME CENTER DRIVE 5:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2008

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammy Spees, Pam Hyland, Mary Betker, Dianne Genz, Dave Repinski, Barb Sparish

FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: Jeanne Osgood

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: None

LIBRARY STAFF: Marilyn Bailey

Meeting called to order by Jerry Lipski at 5:23 p.m. (after a Christmas Pizza Party)

Posting of meeting agenda completed on December 4, 2008; faxed to Daily Tribune at 10:18 a.m.., US Bank at 10:20 a.m., Rome Town Hall at 10:21 a.m., Nekoosa-Port Edwards Bank at 10:24 a.m. Posted at Pritzl’sTrading Post at 4:45 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: D. Repinski motioned to approve the minutes from the November meeting amended to included that D. Repinski and B. Sparish were excused from the meeting. M. Betker seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPROVAL: B. Sparish motioned to approve the bills for November 13 and 24. D. Genz seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BUDGET REVIEW 2008: D. Repinski motioned to approve the budget for 2008 through November. B. Sparish seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT: J. Lipski reported that lessons have been learned from the turned down vote of the Town of Rome Municipal Building. In the future if the Library Trustees go ahead with a library addition we may know what to avoid and what to emphasize. P. Hyland and M. Betker went through the interview process and have been appointed to another term as Trustees by the Rome Town Board. Excellent news was received as the library received grants from Mead Witter Foundation of $5,000.00 and Rome Makers $550.00. Possible purchases may be computer related including a Wii System. Pineland School is definitely closing next year and how can we keep in contact with those students? Thank you to Pam and Dick Hyland for decorating the tree in the Town Square and to others who donated lights and decorations. Next year we will plan ahead for the event.

FOUNDATION/ FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY REPORT and LIBRARIAN’S REPORT: Foundation Report- None

Friends’ Report- J. Osgood reported that the committee has everything ready for the Christmas Tea Saturday, December 12 at 2:00 p.m. A short meeting will be held.

Librarian’s Report – Lore Ponshock submitted a written report.

M. Betker motioned to accept the reports from December. The motion was seconded by T. Spees. The motion was approved unanimously.

LIBRARY GOALS 2009, REVIEW ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR 2008 GOALS: It was decided to keep some of the 2008 goals for 2009 and add two additional goals: 1) Develop a marketing strategy to make people aware of what the library has to offer and 2) Develop a program to evaluate library services and staff including data from outside the library. The 2009 goals will be reviewed at the January Meeting.

CALENDAR OF LIBRARY EVENTS 2009: The calendar was presented with a few additions that will be reviewed at the January meeting.

NEXT AGENDA ITEMS: 2009 Library Goals, 2009 Calendar

MEETING DATE: The next meeting will be held on January 14 at 5:00 p.m. at the Lester Library of Rome.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m. Motion D. Repinski, second B. Sparish. The motion was approved unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

Pam Hyland Secretary

Lester Library Board Meeting Minutes November 10, 2008

TOWN OF ROME LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES

LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME ROME MUNICIPAL BUILDING

5:15 PM , MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2008

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammi Spees, Pam Hyland, Mary Betker, Dianne Genz                        

ABSENT:  Dave Repinski, Barb Sparish

FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: Jeanne Osgood and nine members

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: Mary Ann Benkowski, Jay Grode, Mary Warner

LIBRARY STAFF:

Lore Ponshock , Marilyn Bailey

Meeting called to order by Jerry Lipski at 5:17 p.m.

Posting of meeting agenda completed on November 4, 2008; faxed to Daily Tribune at 11:54 a.m.., US Bank at 11:55 a.m., Rome Town Hall at 11:57 a.m., Nekoosa-Port Edwards Bank at 11:58 a.m. Posted at Pritzl’sTrading Post at 5:00 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES; BILL APPROVAL; BUDGET REVIEW 2008; BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT; FOUNDATION/ FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY REPORT and LIBRARIAN’S REPORT:

Bills were approved for October 17 and 30.

M. Betker motioned to accept the items on the consent agenda as presented.  The motion was seconded by D. Genz.  The motion was approved unanimously.

JOINT MEETING WITH FRIENDS OF LIBRARY AND LIBRARY FOUNDATION TO DISCUSS FUTURE OF LIBRARY AND STRATEGIES FOR INCREASING PUBLIC AWARENESS: J. Lipski led the discussion after introductions.  The agenda included:  Where We’ve Been, Where We Are Now and Where Do We Want to Be. L. Ponshock shared data on the growth of the library from 2002-2008. J. Osgood reported The Friends Christmas Tea will be Saturday, December 13 at 2:30 p.m.

and reported on fundraisers.  M. Benkowski reported The Foundation will continue to fundraise with the sale of Bricks and Wall Plaques and “The Taste of the Vine”. J. Grode, Foundation Treasurer, reported on Foundation earnings. J. Lipski summarized the 2009 budget request to the Town Board. A questionnaire was distributed and participants were asked to complete and return to the library.  Another combined meeting will be planned for March 11, 2009.

LIBRARY GOALS 2009, REVIEW ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR 2008 GOALS: 2008 Goals were reviewed and members were asked to come with ideas for 2009 to the December meeting.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS 2009: Motion made by D. Genz to elect J. Lipski, President; T. Spees, Vice President; and P. Hyland, Secretary. M. Betker second.  Motion approved unanimously.

APPROVAL OF 2009 BUDGET:  D. Genz motioned to accept the 2009 Budget as proposed, second by T. Spees.  Motion approved unanimously.

CALENDAR OF LIBRARY EVENTS FOR 2009:  Calendar will be revisited at the December meeting.

NEXT AGENDA ITEMS: 2009 Library Goals, 2009 Calendar

MEETING DATE:  The next meeting will be at the Rome Library on December 10th at

5:00 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT:  The meeting was adjourned at 6:52 p.m.

Motion by D. Genz, second by M. Betker.  The motion was approved unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

Pam Hyland

Secretary

Lester Library Board Meeting Minutes October 8, 2008

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammi Spees, Pam Hyland, Mary Betker, Dianne Genz           

  

FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: None

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: Mary Ann Benkowski

LIBRARY STAFF:

Lore Ponshock , Marilyn Bailey

Meeting called to order by Jerry Lipski at 5:00 p.m.

Posting of meeting agenda completed on October 4, 2008; faxed to Daily Tribune at 9:30 a.m.., US Bank at 9:31 a.m., Rome Town Hall at 9:33 a.m., Nekoosa-Port Edwards Bank at 9:36 a.m. Posted at Pritzl’sTrading Post at 1:15 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: D. Genz motioned to approve the minutes from the September 10 meeting. T. Spees seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPROVAL:  M. Betker motioned to approve the bills for September 18 and October 2. T. Spees seconded the motion.  Motion approved unanimously.

BUDGET REVIEW 2008:  M. Betker motioned to approve the budget for 2008 through September. D. Genz seconded the motion.  Motion approved unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT:  J. Lipski reported that a date has not been set by the Town Board concerning the Library’s Budget request.  Information collected on other libraries’ building projects will prove helpful.

FOUNDATION/ FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY REPORT and LIBRARIAN’S REPORT:

Foundation Report- M. Benkowkski reported that The Taste of the Vine will be held April 18, 2009.  Appeal letters will not be sent out to all residents this year because of the economy.  An update letter will be sent to past donors. In a time of need library services are bargain.  A workshop will be put on by the Community Foundation, Tuesday, November 18, called “Making Your Case”.  The Foundation will meet in November.

Friends’ Report- None

Librarian’s Report – L. Ponshock submitted a written report. A 100^th Anniversary of Friends Fiesta Ciento will be held in Black Earth on November 2 from 4 to 7.  A donation of two DVD’s was received from the National Endowment of the Arts.

M. Betker motioned to accept the reports from October.  The motion was seconded by T. Spees.  The motion was approved unanimously.

RE-EVALUATE OPTIONS FOR FUTURE EXPANSION OF THE LIBRARY:  D. Genz made a motion to stay the motion approved in August and revisit options every three months. T. Spees seconded the motion.  Motion approved unanimously.

PRESENTATION TO TOWN BOARD:  Instead of making a presentation at this time to the Town Board a meeting with the Friends and Foundation was suggested.  A Pot Luck will be held November 12 at the Town Hall at 6:00 p.m.

M. Betker made the motion to change the October 23 meeting to January.  T. Spees seconded.  The motion was approved unanimously.

CLOSED SESSION:  A motion was made by D. Genz and seconded by T. Spees to move to a closed session meeting as authorized by Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(C) to discuss personnel compensation issues.  Roll call was taken and approved unanimously.

Coming out of closed session the motion was made by M. Betker to compensate M. Bailey at $11.44/hr., Jim Keith at $10.01/hr., and L. Ponshock at $37,317.00 for 2009.  Motion seconded by T. Spees.  Motion approved unanimously.

NEXT AGENDA ITEMS: Presentation to Friends and Foundation

MEETING DATE:  The next meeting will be at the Rome Town Hall on November 12 at

5:00 p.m. followed by a Potluck at 6:00 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT:  The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m. Motion M. Betker, second T. Spees.  The motion was approved unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

Pam Hyland

Secretary

Lester Library Board Meeting Minutes September 10, 2008

LESTER LIBRARY BOARD MEETING SEPTEMBER 10, 2008

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammi Spees, Pam Hyland, Barb Sparish, Mary Betker, Dianne Genz  

FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: Jeanne Osgood

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: None

LIBRARY STAFF: Marilyn Bailey

Meeting called to order by Jerry Lipski at 5:00 p.m.

Posting of meeting agenda completed on September 6, 2008; faxed to Daily Tribune at 7:20 a.m.., US Bank at 7:21 a.m., Rome Town Hall at 7:22 a.m., Nekoosa-Port Edwards Bank at 7:23 a.m. Posted at Pritzl’sTrading Post on September 8, 2008 at 9:15 a.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: B. Sparish motioned to approve the minutes from the August 13  meeting. D. Genz seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPROVAL:  M. Betker motioned to approve the bills for August 21 and September 4. T. Spees seconded the motion.  Motion approved unanimously.

BUDGET REVIEW 2008:  B. Sparish motioned to approve the budget for 2008 through August. M. Betker seconded the motion.  Motion approved unanimously.

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT:  J. Lipski and L. Ponshock met with met with Town Chairman, Phil MacLaughlin to 1) Discuss capital improvement budget request for $1 million in 2010; 2) Discuss regular budget request for $20,000 for LINK program; and 3) Set a date to make a presentation to the rest of the Town Board, (put on agenda for Thursday, October 23 at 6:00 p.m.).  Lipski also discussed salary study done by consultants for Rome Board (Final report emailed to Trustees).  A budget request for $143,000 for 2009 has been submitted to the Town for consideration.  J. Lipski met with Library Friends and Foundation to set up Calendar for 2009 to outline fundraising and programming. The appointments to the Library Board for P. Hyland and M. Betker are up.  Both trustees will go through the reappointment interview process.

FOUNDATION/ FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY REPORT and LIBRARIAN’S REPORT:
Foundation Report- None

Friends Report- J. Osgood reported that the Friends had a successful meeting with 42 member signed up.  The next meeting will be a Tea at the Library on December 13 at 2:30 p.m.  Friends earned over $700.00 at the Camelot Brat Fry and $400 at the Sherwood Festivities.  The Fun Walk raised $3,500 for the library expansion fund. The money has been placed in a CD at Key Savings Bank and is earmarked for the Library expansion.  Dues are kept in a separate account.

Librarian’s Report – L. Ponshock submitted a written report.

M. Betker motioned to accept the reports from September.  The motion was seconded by D. Genz.  The motion was approved unanimously.

NEXT AGENDA ITEMS: Program Statement, Request for Proposal, Closed session on salaries, October 23 Presentation to Town Board

MEETING DATE:  The next meeting will be at the library on October 8th at 5:00 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT:  The meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m. Motion B. Sparish, second T. Spees.  The motion was approved unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

Pam Hyland
Secretary

Lester Library Board Meeting Minutes August 13, 2008

TOWN OF ROME

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES

LESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY OF ROME

1157 ROME CENTER DRIVE

5 PM, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2008

ATTENDEES: Jerry Lipski, Tammi Spees, Pam Hyland, Barb Sparish, Mary Betker, Dave Repinski, Dianne Genz

FRIENDS REPRESENTATION: Diane Genz

FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION: None

LIBRARY STAFF: Lore Ponshock, Marilyn Bailey

Meeting called to order by Jerry Lipski at 5:00 p.m.

Posting of meeting agenda completed on August 11, 2008: faxed to Daily Tribune at 11:29 a.m., US Bank at 11:31 a.m., Rome Town Hall at 11:32 a.m., Nekoosa-Port Edwards Bank at 11:33 a.m. Posted at Pritzil's Trading Post at 11:40 a.m.

Motion made by B. Sparish and seconded by T Spees to amend the agenda to add snow plowing and lawn maintenance procedures. Motion approved unanimously.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: D. Repinski motioned to approve the minutes from the July 9 meting. B. Sparish seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.

BILL APPROVAL: M. Betker motioned to approve the bills for July 10 and 24 and August 8. T. Spees seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously,

BOARD PRESIDENT REPORT: J. Lipski and L. Ponshock met with the Library Foundation on Monday     July 14, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. to brief the Foundation on future plans. A meeting with the Lesters was suggested to update them. J. Lipski also met with Town Chairman, Phil MacLaughlin, and outlined plans. P. MacLaughlin expressed concern that this is a sensitive time for funding issues. J. Lipski may not be here for the September Board Meeting so T. Spees will take care of meeting. Jeanne Osborne, Friends Chair, still needs volunteers for Camelot Brat Fry.

FOUNDATION/FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY REPORT and LIBRARIAN'S REPORT:

Foundation Report - None

Friends Report - D. Genz reported that the Fun Walk raised $3,500 for the library expansion fund.

Librarian's Report - L. Ponshock submitted a written report. Ponshock was nominated by a patron for the Book Page Spotlight Award. There were 450 nominees in the nation. Two nominations were from the South Central Library System. Claire Rose from Marquette, MI was the winner. Congratulation, Lore! A thank you was received from the Department of Veterans Affairs Great Lakes Health for book donations. A $25.00 award certificate was received from amazon.com for purchases. Wireless connection use has been as high as larger cities such as Stoughton or Verona. As reported, circulation continues to set records. Book sale money is earmarked for kid's programs and was used to purchase bikes for the summer reading incentive program. A boy and girl each received a bike.

D. Genz motioned to accept the reports from August. The motions was seconded by B. Sparish. The motion was approved unanimously.

OPTIONS FOR FUTURE EXPANSION OF THE LIBRARY: J. Lipski reviewed the three options. After discussion, a motion was made by D. Repinski to go ahead with architect and continue fund raising efforts. Second by B. Sparish. The motion was approved unanimously. Foundation approval is the next step.

LIBRARY PROGRAM STATEMENT: J. Lipski will compile information and finish statement for approval at the October meeting.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL: Lipski and Ponshock will review and change timelines. Foundation support will be needed. The final proposal will be presented at the October meeting.

BUDGET SUBMITTAL FOR 2009 TO TOWN OF ROME: A time has not been set by the Town Board.

SNOW REMOVAL AND LAWN MAINTENANCE: A motion was made by B. Sparish to give L. Ponshock authority to advertise for proposals and select candidates for snow removal and lawn maintenance contracts. Seconded by D. Genz. Motion approved unanimously.

NEXT AGENDA ITEMS: Survey responses from other libraries.

MEETING DATE: The next meeting will be at the library on September 10 at 5:00 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:12 p.m. Motion B. Sparish, second D. Genz. The motion was approved unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,

Pam Hyland, Secretary