>If true - and I'm opening to arguments that it isn't- new library directors
>will have to deal with the mess. Will you allow diversion of referendum
>funds to operating costs? What measures would you support to close the $1.6
>million annual operating deficit Bob identifies? Would you close libraries?
>Ask for a new referendum? Level with voters that there may have been a
>bait-and-switch?
OPERATING FUNDS
I don't know about the operating fund deficit. I've been attending about
half the Library Board meetings since about February and it hasn't come up.
The increased operating expenses after the North Regional Library remodel
seem very high. That remodel will not add any space to the library. It is
not an addition.
There are some obvious operating savings that could either go to solve the
problem (if there is one) or improve service:
* Increased use of technology to improve the efficiency of the reference
function of the library (they currently don't have a "frequently asked
questions" file that could save a large number of calls on common
questions. I don't even think they keep track of common reference
questions so each reference libraian has to research them independly. I'm
not sure about this but it is something to check into.
* Increased use of self service check-out.
* The planned merger of a number of central library departments
* A more efficient layout of the new library.
* More books available directly to the public (65% of the collection--up
from 15%), reducing the labor needed to retreive books.
* Consider joint purchases or joint operations of some things (e.g.
Employee Relations) with other boards (e.g. Park Board, Library Board).
Another option is increasing the fundraising activities of the library.
This is usually unsuccessful for general operating support but can be
successful for special projects.
Using referendum funds for operating is illegal and I would oppose it. Even
if it were not, the Board made a promise to the public to use if for
construction projects and needs to abide by that promise.
On the other side of the issue is that a new library can look at doubling
circulation and use when it opens because of increased public interest.
Hosmer Library's circulation is now almost equal to the circulation of
North Regional Library. How to staff for this increase will be a major
issue.
CAPITAL FUNDS
This is complex. I have just started looking into it. The CLIC bonding for
libraries was, I understand, delayed, not eliminated. I know there are
discussions going on regarding the capital funding schedule.
>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>.>
sheldon mains seward neighborhood minneapolis [EMAIL PROTECTED]
the shameless agitator in the electronic town square
yes, i really am running for library board. check
http://www.shamelessagitator.org for details.
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