HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-18-2024-BLT-AGENDA PACKETCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES AGENDA
Balboa Branch Library
100 E. Balboa Boulevard, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Monday, March 18, 2024 - 5:00 PM
Board of Library Trustees Members:
Paul Watkins, Chair
Dorothy Larson, Vice Chair
Lauren Kramer, Secretary
Antonella Castro, Trustee
Chase Rief, Trustee
Staff Members:
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
Francine Jacome, Administrative Support Specialist
The Board of Library Trustees meeting is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act. Among other things, the Brown Act
requires that the Board of Library Trustees agenda be posted at least seventy-two (72) hours in advance of each regular
meeting and that the public be allowed to comment on agenda items before the Commission and items not on the
agenda but are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Board of Library Trustees. The Chair may limit public
comments to a reasonable amount of time, generally three (3) minutes per person.
The public can submit questions and comments in writing for the Board of Library Trustees to consider. Please send
them by email to the Library Services Department at LibraryBoard@newportbeachca.gov by Sunday, March 17, at 4:00
p.m. to give the Board of Library Trustees time to consider your comments. All emails will be made part of the record.
The City of Newport Beach’s goal is to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an
attendee or a participant at this meeting, you will need special assistance beyond what is normally provided, we will
attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner. Please contact Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director, at
least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting to inform us of your particular needs and to determine if accommodation
is feasible at (949) 717-3801 or mhartson@newportbeachca.gov.
NOTICE REGARDING PRESENTATIONS REQUIRING USE OF CITY EQUIPMENT
Any presentation requiring the use of the City of Newport Beach’s equipment must be submitted to the Library Services
Department 24 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
I.CALL MEETING TO ORDER
II.ROLL CALL
III.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IV.NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
The City provides a yellow sign-in card to assist in the preparation of the minutes. The
completion of the card is not required in order to address the Board of Library Trustees. If the
optional sign-in card has been completed, it should be placed in the tray provided.
The Board of Library Trustees of Newport Beach welcomes and encourages community
participation. Public comments are generally limited to three (3) minutes per person to allow
everyone to speak. Written comments are encouraged as well. The Board of Library Trustees
has the discretion to extend or shorten the time limit on agenda or non-agenda items. As a
courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
March 18, 2024
Page 2
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
V.CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under CONSENT CALENDAR are considered to be routine and will all be
enacted by one motion in the form listed below. Board of Library Trustees have received
detailed staff reports on each of the items recommending an action. There will be no separate
discussion of these items prior to the time the Board of Library Trustees votes on the motion
unless members of the Board of Library Trustees request specific items to be discussed and/or
removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Members of the public who wish to
discuss a Consent Calendar item should come forward upon invitation by the Chair.
A.Consent Calendar Items
Minutes of the Feb 26, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting (pp. 5-12)1.
DRAFT MINUTES
Patron Comments (pp. 13-14)2.
Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests
received from patrons.
PATRON COMMENTS
Library Activities (pp. 15-25)3.
Monthly update of library events, services and statistics.
FEBRUARY ACTIVITIES
Expenditure Status Report (p. 26)4.
Monthly expenditure status of the library's operating expenses, services, salaries and
benefits by department.
FEBRUARY EXPENDITURES
Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List (p. 27)5.
List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of Library
Trustees.
MONITORING LIST
March 18, 2024
Page 3
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
VI.CURRENT BUSINESS
A.Items for Review
Balboa Branch Update (pp. 28-31)6.
Branch Librarian Evelyn Rogers presents an overview of Balboa Branch's activities
and resources.
STAFF REPORT
Gift and Donor Policy (NBPL 3)(pp. 32-45)7.
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees review and accept revisions to
Library Policy NBPL 3, Gift and Donor Policy.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENTS A-D
Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee Update8.
The Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee will provide an update regarding
the process of appeals in Library Policy (NBPL 2), Collection Development Policy.
Lecture Hall Update9.
Report on activities related to the Lecture Hall project.
Balboa Branch Replacement Update10.
Report on activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project.
Library Services (pp. 15-25)11.
Report of library issues regarding services, patrons and staff.
B.Monthly Reports
Library Foundation Liaison Reports (pp. 46-47)12.
A. Library Foundation Board - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
B. Library Live Lectures Committee - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
C. Witte Lectures Committee - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
FOUNDATION REPORT
March 18, 2024
Page 4
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Friends of the Library Liaison Report13.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Pals4pal Liaison Report14.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Pals4pal Board meeting.
VII.PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Public comments are invited, and non-agenda items generally considered to be within the
subject matter jurisdiction of the Board of Library Trustees. Speakers must limit comments to
three (3) minutes. Before speaking, we invite, but do not require, you to state your name for the
record. The Board of Library Trustees has the discretion to extend or shorten the speakers’
time limit on agenda or non-agenda items, provided the time limit adjustment is applied equally
to all speakers. As a courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
VIII.BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION
ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
IX.ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Board of Library Trustees Civic Center Council Chambers 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach Meeting Minutes Monday, February 26, 2024 – 4:30 PM I. CALL MEETING TO ORDER – 4:30 PM Chair Paul Watkins called to order the regular meeting of the Newport Beach Board of Library Trustees.
II. ROLL CALL – Roll call by Administrative Support Specialist Francine Jacome. Trustees Present: Chair Paul Watkins, Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, Trustee Antonella Castro, Secretary Lauren Kramer, Trustee Chase Rief Trustees Absent: None Staff Present: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager Francine Jacome, Administrative Support Specialist
Annika Helmuth, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Andrew Kachaturian, Circulation and Technical Processing Coordinator Erin Spivey, Adult Services Coordinator
Staff Absent None III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Trustee Chase Rief led the Pledge of Allegiance
IV. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC - Waived V. CONSENT CALENDAR Administrative Support Specialist Jacome read the Consent Calendar Notice to the Public. A. Consent Calendar Items Chair Watkins inquired if any Trustees had requests to pull an item from the Consent Calendar. 1. Minutes of the January 16, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting Chair Watkins requested Mr. Mosher’s written modifications to the minutes be accepted. 2. Patron Comments Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests received from patrons. Chair Watkins noted that Newport Beach will no longer hold a Star Status under the Star
Status Program as the Library Journal recently decided to pause that program as they felt it was not an altogether fair approach for all libraries.
5
Board of Library Trustees Meeting February 26, 2024
Page 2
3.Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library ResourcesMonthly review of evaluations of library resources as requested by patrons withcorresponding staff responses.
Chair Watkins reported that there has only been one request for evaluation this month. There are now 81 written communications regarding the age appropriate issue.
4.Library ActivitiesMonthly update of library events, services, and statistics.
5.Expenditure Status ReportMonthly expenditure status of the library’s operating expenses, services, salaries, andbenefits by department.
Chair Watkins reported they are 58% through the Fiscal Year (FY) and they are at 55% of expenditures and 3% under budget and expressed it was nice to see.
6.Board of Library Trustees Monitoring ListList of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of LibraryTrustees.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments, and there were none.
Motion made by Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, seconded by Trustee Chase Rief, and carried (5-0-0-0) to approve the Consent Calendar Items 1-6 with the minor changes to the January 16, 2024 draft minutes.
AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES:
VI.CURRENT BUSINESS
A.Items for Review
7.Library Lecture Hall Policy (NBPL 15)Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees rescind and terminate LibraryPolicy NBPL 15, Library Lecture Hall, as the facility will be under City managementand not guided by Library policy.
Library Services Director Hartson reported that staff requested that NBPL 15 be rescinded and terminated as the facility is now under City management and not guided by Library policy.
City Council approved a third amendment with the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation and as part of that MOU amendment, the Hall’s authority was changed from the Library to the City.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments.
Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) believed the Board of Library Trustees should be removing the policy under protest as it seemed to him the Lecture Hall was intended as a
6
Board of Library Trustees Meeting February 26, 2024
Page 3
Library facility and the City’s Charter was clear that this Board was the entity that administers the Library’s facilities in Newport Beach. He was not sure how City Council could make such a change.
Motion made under protest by Vice Chair Larson, seconded by Secretary Kramer, and carried (5-0-0-0) to rescind and terminate the Library Policy NBPL 15 for the Library Lecture
Hall. AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief
NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: 8. Gift and Donor Policy (NBPL 3) Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees review and accept revisions to Library Policy NBPL 3, Gift and Donor Policy. Library Services Director Hartson reported that the policy calls out the various gifts that are received from support organizations and other community members. One of the changes is the addition of the support organization Pals4pal. It is the fundraising arm that helps support
the Library’s Project Adult Literacy program. Staff recommend that they be included in the Gift and Donor Policy. The official spelling of the organization is Pals4pal, and they are a 501(c)(3).
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments.
Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) commented that recently the Board decided to review each policy every two years; prior to that, it had been many years since any of the policies were revisited, and he felt this particular policy could use more extensive review as many changes have taken place since this policy was last reviewed. He called out the section about the recognition wall being out of date, along with donor opportunities, and the structure of the Foundation has changed where the Foundation will be accepting some donations for the Library and some for other things; perhaps that should be distinguished. The process for Friends of the Library donations is not clearly spelled out, and this document is the only opportunity people have to understand their opportunities to support the Library programs. The website is also not very comprehensive with donor opportunities. Motion made by Secretary Kramer, seconded by Trustee Antonella Castro, and carried (5-0-0-0) to approve the revisions to the Library Policy NBPL 3: Gift and Donor Policy
AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENCES: Trustee Castro agreed that Mr. Mosher had some very good ideas with regard to his notes for the changes to the donor policy.
7
Board of Library Trustees Meeting February 26, 2024
Page 4
9. Annual Budget – Preliminary Review Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the preliminary Library operating budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25.
Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot reported that the City is preparing to review the budget for next fiscal year. Staff met with the Assistant City Managers Tara Finnigan and
Simone Jurjis to review some program enhancement requests as outlined in the staff report. Revenues have been projected to remain similar to the previous year and noted the projected revenue for copies and plans needs to be adjusted due to higher than expected year-to-date
(YTD) revenues in that account. The numbers provided are the proposed budget Finance is planning on including in their document to be approved by City Council. Vice Chair Larson asked what the deadline is for it to be included in the Finance Committee’s report. Library Services Manager Lightfoot believed it was in March. Library Services Director Hartson stated she did not have the City’s budget calendar on hand but could report back. Trustee Castro inquired about the increase to salary and benefits and if it could be increased more to hire new people. Library Services Director Hartson commented if an increase were something the Board would like to consider, perhaps it would be appropriate for changes to the following fiscal year, as all program enhancements have already been submitted to the
City Manager. Staff would need to report back to the City Manager with justification for the ask of additional staff.
Secretary Lauren Kramer stated that if a need arises during the year for additional staff, they can approach City Council with a budget adjustment that is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments. Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) provided public comment about the timeline of the budget and noted the Finance Committee works off of a work plan, they have April 11 marked as receiving an overview of the expenditure budget for the coming FY. It likely will not be detailed but will probably show the projected total for the Library Services Department. The actual detailed budget will be reviewed by them on May 9, which is the date scheduled for City Council to host the City Manager’s recommended detailed budget for review and potential modifications. Motion made by Secretary Kramer, seconded by Vice Chair Larson, and carried (5-0-0-0) to approve the preliminary Library operating budget for FY 2024-25.
AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENCES: 10. Arts and Culture Update Staff will present the annual report on the activities of the Cultural Arts Division Library Services Director Hartson reported that staff works with the City Arts Commission to host arts programs throughout the city. The Commission also acts in an advisory capacity to the Council for all things pertaining to the arts within the City. Included in the packet is an
8
Board of Library Trustees Meeting February 26, 2024
Page 5
overview of last year’s events and highlighted the return of the Newport Beach Art Exhibition in 2023, and on the same day they held the Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park grand opening of Phase VIII. The Commission is currently working on Phase IX and encouraged
the board members to visit the cultural arts page on the Library’s website and participate in voting for top favorites for Phase IX. The public poll will be open until March 11. Other popular events include the summer series Concerts on the Green, as well as a concert at Marina
Park, and additional rotational art in the Central Library on the Gallery Wall. Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments, and there were none.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 11. Acceptance of Donation Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees approve the acceptance of a donation from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation (NBPLF). Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot reported that the Foundation received a donation of $1,000.00 from the Wohl Family Fund, to be used specifically for Project Adult Literacy. Staff would like to utilize the donated funds to purchase new materials for the program.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments.
Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) commented that it seemed to him that under the collections policy, the City Charter states that the Library Board accepts donations subject to approval by the City Council. That was possibly misstated in the policy and it’s possible City
Council adopted a policy in which they don’t need to make an approval. Motion made by Trustee Rief, seconded by Trustee Castro, and carried (5-0-0-0) to approve the preliminary Library operating budget for FY 2024-2025. AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: 12. Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee Update
The Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee will provide an update regarding the process of appeals in Library Policy (NBPL 2) Children’s Collection Development Policy.
Chair Watkins reported that the subcommittee began receiving evaluation requests from community members which resulted in the Director’s Decision on several children’s books by
October 2023. Since that time, there have been 46 Director’s Decisions that have been issued in response to the evaluation requests challenging 15 different children’s books. It was decided to treat the 46 Director’s Decisions as a grandfathered group and will allow appeal requests on those decisions through Friday, March 15, at 4:00 PM. At the end of that time period, they will consider the number of appeal requests submitted and possibly set a Special Meeting. Letters will be mailed to all 46 patrons who have submitted patron requests for evaluation of library resources informing them of the grandfathered timeline.
9
Board of Library Trustees Meeting February 26, 2024
Page 6
Secretary Kramer stated that it is her preference that once that date passes, the Board should start hearing two to three appeals during regular meetings until they’ve all been heard, as opposed to conducting a special meeting.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments.
Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) noted that the March meeting is scheduled for March 18, the Monday following the March 15 deadline, and the City has also scheduled the Harbor Commission meeting also on March 18 and inquired the number of books that had been
appealed from the original decision and suggested it might be helpful in scheduling the appeals hearings with that information. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 13. Lecture Hall Update Report on activities related to the Library Lecture Hall project. Library Services Director Hartson reported that construction fencing has gone up in the lower first level parking lot. Limited parking is available in the Central Library parking lot and visitors are encouraged to park in the parking structure and enter through the second floor entry if
lower level spots cannot be found. Site preparation is still taking place. Weather permitting, surface demolition will begin in early March.
Chair Watkins noted that while it may no longer be considered the responsibility of the Library, the Lecture Hall remains important to the Library due to the programming, and as such, the rebuild will have a significant impact on the Central Library. For that reason, he requested
the item continue to be listed on the meeting Agenda until further notice. Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments, and there were none. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 14. Balboa Branch Update Report on the activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project. Library Services Director Hartson reported that on March 5, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission (PB&R) meeting will take place in Council Chambers at 5:00 PM. It
will be the next opportunity for project updates and public comments. Chair Watkins noted that at the City Council planning retreat at OASIS Senior Center it was
discussed at some length. It’s on everyone’s radar and he encouraged members of the public to attend the PB&R meeting and participate. Ultimately, City Council will approve the design for the project.
Vice Chair Larson commented that some of the discussions relate to the exterior layout of the branch, lot, and fire station, which will result in significant changes to the property, which is why it is being heard by PB&R. Library Services Director Hartson reminded the Board that there will also be a playground element, which also fits within the PB&R purview.
10
Board of Library Trustees Meeting February 26, 2024
Page 7
Chair Watkins opened the item up for Public Comments, and there were none. Chair Watkins received and filed the report.
15. Library Services Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons, and staff. Library Services Director Hartson stated her report for Library Services was covered with the information about suspending the Star Status program and mention of the PB&R meeting.
Trustee Castro asked if the Star Status had any tangible impact. Library Services Director Hartson answered it was more a source of pride for the Library; Star Status was based on quantitative numbers that were submitted every year to the state. The Newport Beach Public Library will continue to provide star rated services without the ranking. They will continue to track that as the State requires annual reporting of these statistics each year. Trustee Rief stated he’s been frequenting the Library of late with his children for various needs and he has been extremely happy with the help provided by library staff. Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments.
Jerry Kappel (Foundation CEO) commented that the Foundation will continue to state that this is a four-star Library, one of only twelve in the State of California. There is much to be
proud of; the Journal’s decision does not affect how the Library Foundation promotes the quality of the Library.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Monthly Reports 16. Library Foundation Liaison Reports A. Library Foundation Board Report on the most recently attended meeting. Chair Watkins reported that he attended the Foundation Board meeting, and in his monthly report, Jerry Kappel provided a great update of the Library Foundation Board, Library Live and Witte Lecture. He included the Spotlight on Science program and a great matrix of all the ticket sales and dates for each event.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Library Live Lectures Committee
Report on the most recently attended meeting. Vice Chair Larson agreed that Mr. Kappel provided a great update. They are beginning work
on next year’s speakers for Library Live and Witte, and the programs are going strong. Chair Watkins received and filed the report.
11
Board of Library Trustees Meeting February 26, 2024
Page 8
C. Witte Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting.
(Addressed in previous agenda item) Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 17. Friends of the Library Liaison Report Trustee update on the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Trustee Rief reported that he attended the meeting. The Friends had a great used book sale. The numbers were down somewhat; however, so were the number of items that they had for sale. There was some concern noted around the parking and the ability to drop off donations, which they are addressing with their membership and communications. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 18. Pals4pal Liaison Report Trustee update of the Pals4pal Board meeting.
Trustee Castro reported that she attended their board retreat, and the discussion was positive. They want to continue to fund the Library’s adult literacy programs and would like to continue to receive reports from Library Services Manager Lightfoot and Literacy Coordinator
Gabriela Leman about how their donations are helping. There was an awesome article about the program in the Daily Pilot. They’ve never done a stand-alone fundraiser, which was also a topic of discussion.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. VII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS – Two Minutes per speaker None VIII. BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM) None IX. ADJOURNMENT – 5:14 p.m. The next meeting will be held at Balboa Branch on March 18, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
12
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS FEBRUARY 2024
Comment #Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
1
02/03/2024
Email
Erin Spivey
Adult Services Coordinator
02/05/2024
2
02/12/2024
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
02/13/2024
3
02/17/2024
Email
Terry Sanchez
Programs Specialist
02/20/2024
4
02/18/2024
Email
Greg Johnson
Library Assistant
02/20/2024
5
02/19/2024
Email
Danielle Yang
Library Assistant
02/20/2024
My parents live in Newport Beach and my mom really struggles with using her
phone and laptop. I searched through the Orange County Library system to see if I
could find her in-person classes on how to use a phone or laptop, but I didn't find anything. Do you happen to offer this? If not, do you happen to know where I could find resources for her? I live far away unfortunately. Thanks! ... Wow, this is excellent. Thank you for sending me these resources! Stay dry out there!
Thank you for reaching out. While we don’t offer any technology classes like this at
NBPL, I am happy to connect you with some resources to help your mom acquire
some computer skills. Orange County Community College offers free computer classes through their adult education school. You can learn more about that here. Santa Ana College’s School of Continuing Education offers free courses to all adults living in California. You can learn more about all their classes here. They offer a
class on navigating the internet and email that may be useful. Learn more here. For
fee-based classes, our Newport Beach Oasis Senior Center offers many different
types of computer and technology classes. Here is a sampling you might be interested in: Apple iPhone for Beginners; Computer Skills-Intermediate; Private Technology Lessons. I hope these resources can guide you to a matching class for your mom. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need further assistance. Thank you.
There should definitely be a message regarding parking at the library, or lack
thereof, with the new construction for two years. This forces people to parking in the
Bristol Farms lot, which is not great and does not help those in the center.
Thank you for your patience as we embark on this very exciting construction project.
We recommend parking in the Civic Center Parking Structure as opposed to Bristol
Farms. It is much closer and more convenient to enter the library from the structure. I would also encourage you, if you haven’t already, to sign up to receive the library’s eNews directly to your email. We will do our best to keep everyone up to date on the construction project. You can sign up here... Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions or concerns, and thank you for your continued support.
Thank you for all you do for the community—much appreciated! I am writing to see
what is the process for being selected to play either at the library on Sundays or at
your summer events (concerts). My husband has a six-piece jazz band, and we’re
always looking for venues to play at. The music does have jazz standards (instrumentals), some pop and some vocals, but all generally in a jazz style. We are wondering what the criteria would be to get selected. Thank you for your time!
Thank you for your interest in the Newport Beach Public Library. Please send a
performance video of your husband’s jazz band along with a brief bio of the band to
my email. The video must be in front of a live audience, not a rehearsal. I will be
happy to submit it to the program committee for Sunday Musicales as well as the Cultural Arts assistant who coordinates summer concerts. If the band is a fit for either program, you will be contacted. Thanks so much and please let me know if you have any further questions.
My grandfather recently passed and we found an amazing article about him that we believe was published in the Newport Daily Pilot during or before 1968. We would love to get an exact date on the article. It is titled “Newport engineer is booster for innovation” written by Dorothy Pine under the “meet the people” section. Thank you!
Thank you for contacting the Newport Beach Public Library. We appreciate you asking us to find an article on your grandfather. It is in our archives. I found the article and attached it to this email for you. For reference the article is within the Daily Pilot Archives dated July 26, 1968, from the Orange Coast Weekender, page
3.Yes, it was in the “Meet the People” section under the title, “Newport Engineer Is
Booster For Innovation,” just like you noted. Thank you for providing information to
help our research. Please let us know if you have any questions.
I am wondering if the Library this year will offer workshop for college bound high school students about preparation for SAT/ ACT test, similar like the one you hosted last year? … Thank you so much for the prompt reply. I will note the calendar and
prepare accordingly. Appreciate your assistance to this matter. Have a great day!
Thanks for getting in touch! Unfortunately, we will not be hosting a PSAT/SAT seminar this Spring. But if there's a demand for it, I would be happy to pass this
information along to our partner, Collegewise, to see if it might be a good idea for a
Fall program! This Spring/Summer, we'll be doing three college prep seminars for
college bound high school students: 4/20 Admissions 101; 5/22 How to write a great
college essay; 6/19 How to maximize your summer/College List-building. Please let me know if you have any questions going forward! Thank you.13
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS FEBRUARY 2024
Comment #Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
6
02/21/2024
Comment Card
Erin Spivey
Adult Services Coordinator
02/21/2024
7
02/22/2024
Comment Card
Annika Helmuth
Branch & Youth Services Coordinator
02/22/2024
8
02/25/2024
Email
Erin Spivey
Adult Services Coordinator
02/26/2024
9
02/28/2024
In Person
Andy Kachaturian
Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator
02/28/2024
10
02/29/2024
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
02/29/2024
I am interested in a part-time position with the Library. Can you tell me who to contact regarding employment opportunities? Thank you. Thank you for your interest in working for the Library! All of our job openings are posted on the City’s website here... You can also fill out a job interest card on the City’s website to be notified by email whenever a new job in the Library is posted... I hope that helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Thank you.
I still can’t access the app. Can you let me know when and if an app will be available
and who we can escalate this complaint to ? It’s unreasonable that a library with such a budget does not have a working app for six months. We can’t link my daughter's kindle due to not having an app. Please give the instructions on how to link kindle accounts since you lack an app.
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the app. As we shared previously, the old
Newport Beach Public Library app is defunct; the vendor shut down the app service. We did receive a refund from the vendor for that program. We are engaged in working with new vendors to test out possible app services through them. We hope to have an app for the library in the near future. If you still need instructions on how to link your kindle to the digital books, you can see instructions from Libby here... If
you would like to escalate this complaint further, you can reach out to Rebecca
Lightfoot, Library Services Manager, at rlightfoot@newportbeachca.gov. Thank you
again for your inquiry.
There is a bad smell in the computer area upstairs. It seems deep, like it might be in the carpet. I told staff, but they did not detect the smell. Please contact me to discuss.
Thank you for taking the time to comment about the public computer area upstairs at the Central Library. I will investigate this with our maintenance worker in the morning and see if we can notice any remaining issues. This is a high traffic area
and sometimes people do bring in food despite our restriction in this area. Hopefully
it was a temporary matter such as that, but we will give it a thorough look in the
morning. We do have a nightly janitorial staff that may be able to take appropriate action if necessary. Thanks again for taking the time to help us keep the library facility in good shape! Best regards.
What I like most about the Newport Beach Public Library is the friendly staff. Very,
very, very helpful. I suggest you look into the cost effectiveness of installing electric
hand dryers to save the purchase of paper towels.
Thank you for your recent comment at Newport Beach Public Library. I truly
appreciate you taking the time to let us know how we are doing. I am so pleased to
hear that you found our staff to be friendly and very helpful. They strive to always provide excellent service, and I am pleased to hear that you experienced it. Thank you also for your suggestion regarding electric hand dryers. I will pass this on to our library director for future consideration. I hope you’ll return to visit us soon.
What I like most about the Newport Beach Public Library is Friends of the Library. What I would like to see added is more parenting books to the children's area. It's so hard to look at them upstairs with kids. Make them more accessible. Move parent
education books where parents need to be. More will see, engage and benefit
families.
Thank you for your recent comment card received at the Central Library. We are always looking for ways to improve our services and appreciate your suggestion to move parenting books to the children's area of the library. Unfortunately, the volume
of the parenting collection prevents us from moving it at this time as we do not have
the space required for such a robust collection. However, when you visit, staff is
more than happy to bring the books to you! Please don't hesitate to ask staff at the children's desk to call upstairs and retrieve some parenting titles. You are also more than welcome to bring books from upstairs down to the children's area during your visit. Again, we are grateful for your feedback and hope that we can meet your needs on a future visit.14
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
March 18, 2024
Agenda Item No. 4
MELISSA HARTSON, LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Witte Hall Groundbreaking
The City of Newport Beach held the groundbreaking
ceremony for Witte Hall on February 27. City
Council, Board of Library Trustees, Library
Foundation Board, members, and key donors and
supporters were all present for this project
milestone. Following many years of planning for a
lecture hall, it was a privilege to attend this event.
Witte Hall will expand programming opportunities
for the Library with its completion set for early
2026.
City Council Planning Session
I attended the annual City Council Planning Session on Saturday, February 3. During this special meeting,
City staff presented updates on the City’s financial status, long range capital planning, and budget
development for Fiscal Year 2024-25 programs and services levels. This last update included a
presentation regarding arts programming and funding.
WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES
•Spotlight on Science: Tracking Ice and Water with A.I.
Wednesday, March 20, 7 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Library Closure: Easter Holiday
Sunday, March 31
All locations
•Medicine in Our Backyard: Treating Colon Cancer
Valery Vilchez Parra, MD
Monday, March 25, 7 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•National Library Week: April 7 - 14
City Council Proclamation
Tuesday, April 9, 4 p.m.
City Council Chambers
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
TITLE: Report of February Library Activities – March 18, 2024 Meeting
15
Report of February Library Activities
March 18, 2024
Page 2
WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES (continued)
• Witte Lecture: Dahlia Lithwick
Friday, April 12, 7 p.m.
Saturday, April 13, 2 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
• Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Monday, April 15, 3:30 p.m.
City Council Chambers
• Sunday Musicale: Vieness Piano Duo
Sunday, April 14, 3 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
REBECCA LIGHTFOOT, LIBRARY SERVICES MANAGER
Literacy
January’s Daily Pilot article generated interest in the program, with several new prospective tutors and
learners signing up. There are a total of 29 learners and 19 tutors signed up for the March orientations.
Literacy Coordinator Gabriela Leman facilitated several America Learns training classes for the tutors at
the end of February.
Programming
In February, the Library hosted a Sunday Musicale featuring the violin twosome, Duo Unbound. They were
delightful and well received with 180 in attendance.
The Library also offered the second class of the Genealogy Uncovered series. This intimate size class (12
max) offered hands-on help for new and seasoned genealogy enthusiasts.
Training
Staff continues to utilize online access to the Vulnerable Populations trainings. February’s live training
featured guest speaker Carly Danesh-Jones, an autistic woman and advocate, who has been shaping policy
and practice related to autistic women and girls since 2008.
During the interview, Carly shared her experience of how homelessness and autism intersect after
previously being homeless as a teenage mother.
ANNIKA HELMUTH, BRANCH AND YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR
Branch Activities
The Corona del Mar Branch (CdM) was busy with children’s programs this month including storytimes;
Seek & Find activities; drop-in crafts; Sensory Play; Stay and Play; and two notable special events, a
Friendship Bracelet Challenge held throughout the month and a Friendship & Fun Party on February 8.
At the Balboa Branch (Balboa), a Hearts & Hugs craft program on Valentine’s Day saw attendees make a
paper flower bouquet; flying heart pencil topper; sand art heart necklace; and heart dog craft.
And at the Mariners Branch (Mariners), rainy weather brought in large and lively crowds that enjoyed Stay
& Play materials. LEGO Wednesdays continue to be a draw every week and a Valentine’s themed
16
Report of February Library Activities
March 18, 2024
Page 3
Sweetheart Crafts event was a success with 64 participants. Also in February, Mikaela Malsy joined the
Mariners team as a part-time Library Clerk.
Youth Services
Storytime attendance at all locations remained high with over 2,300 in attendance throughout the month.
The monthly afterschool program schedule at the Central Library (Central) includes BARK: Read to a Dog;
Makerspace; Crafternoon; Family Game Day; Middle Grade Book Club; and LEGO Saturdays which are
offered each month. These monthly on-going programs are geared towards children ages 6-11 and
attendance totaled close to 250 participants in all.
Special Programs
Youth Services staff ended February on a high note with a very popular Family Paint Day at Central.
Seventy-two participants painted mini masterpieces using acrylic paint and mini canvases. While the
children enjoyed picking out paint colors and painting everything from palm trees to leopards, it was great
to also see caregivers joining in on the fun and painting their own canvases.
Class Visits
This month, Youth Services staff welcomed a troop of Brownie scouts for a visit. The visit began with a
tour of the children's area where staff discussed the difference between fiction and non-fiction books and
how to find them on the shelf using the catalog. The scouts then went to the Media Lab where they
received a lesson on coding and Scratch basics to earn their coding badges.
Youth Services staff also hosted a Daisy Scout Troop in February. The 20 kindergarten Daisy Scouts were
earning their "considerate and caring" badges. Staff incorporated their badge in talking about ways we
can be considerate and caring in the library including taking care of the books; following the rules; and
sharing with others. The troop also enjoyed a storytime followed by a tour of the children's area where
the scouts practiced using the catalog to find books.
Outreach
At the end of the month, several local schools reached out to the Library to schedule Summer Reading
Program visits, which are expected to begin in mid-April.
Training
Children’s Librarian Jasmin Avila attended a webinar, ¡Canta Conmigo! Ten New Songs for Bilingual
Storytime, where she learned translation methods and techniques of value to weekly storytime events.
Mariners staff members Shelley Pricer, Nicole Osterman, and Brooke Pauley all participated in webinars
related to their positions, and Corona del Mar Branch Librarian Nadia Dallstream participated in the City’s
DISC training offered in February.
ANDREW KACHATURIAN, CIRCULATION AND TECHNICAL PROCESSING COORDINATOR
Staffing
Library Page Priscilla Johnson has been promoted to part-time Library Clerk. She will begin training at the
Central Library in March and will be assigned to the Balboa Branch. One more part-time Library Clerk is in
background, leaving one additional vacancy. There are two Library Pages in background with three
remaining vacancies.
17
Report of February Library Activities
March 18, 2024
Page 4
Facilities
Library and City staff have submitted evaluations of HVAC service providers and should soon be selecting
a new vendor to maintain the Central Library and Mariners Branch. Balboa and Corona del Mar Branches
will be unaffected by this transition.
The contract to repair the elevator at the Central Library is nearing completion, and we hope to have
everything in place to start repairs in March. A secondary staff elevator remains available to the public
and signage is in place to ensure patrons are aware of this option.
ERIN SPIVEY, ADULT SERVICES COORDINATOR
Outreach
Reference Libarian Jeremy Rodriguez and Children’s Librarian Jasmin Avila attended the Newport Harbor
High School Volunteer Fair on February 14. The pair interacted with over 80 students; discussed, and
answered questions regarding volunteer opportunities, teen programs, and general information about
the Library.
Reference Librarian Rosemary Hammock attended an open house for the new Clearwater Living Senior
Center and toured their new facilities. Rosemary informed Clearwater staff about NBPL services that may
be of interest to their residents.
Teens
Also on February 14, 10 teens attended the February Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) meeting. The
group discussed upcoming teen programs for the Summer Reading Program as well as for the Central
Library’s 30th Anniversary. All the staff initiatives received positive and enthusiastic responses from the
teens. YAAC also worked on the teen book display for the month, did a recipe exchange where they shared
recipes they chose and loved, and engaged in a Pop n' Cookin' edible craft activity.
Local History
Reference Librarians Rosemary Hammock and Laurie Sanders are undertaking a library history project at
our Central Library. They are analyzing archival materials, evaluating appropriate storage, and reviewing
items for use at our upcoming 30th Anniversary celebrations.
Interlibrary Loans
The Interlibrary Loan (ILL) team has been working diligently to fulfill loan requests from both NBPL patrons
and peer libraries. Between January and February 2024, we were able to complete 118 total requests.
Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey and the ILL staff met to discuss ways in which to streamline the ILL
services, as well as increase transparency of the process for both staff and patrons. Staff is currently
working on patron facing FAQs for the NBPL website.
Media Lab
Our Media Lab continues to be popular and draw new users. Library Assistant Chris Hennigan helped
several new patrons learn about the Sound Lab and all that it offers. He also assisted new patrons with
Creative Cloud in the Media Lab.
18
Report of February Library Activities
March 18, 2024
Page 5
Training
Librarians and library assistants continue to engage in training as often as possible.
Laurie Sanders attended Evaluation for Program Planning and Decision-Making, while both Laurie and Erin
Spivey attended a multi-part training on Self Care for Library Staff.
Additionally, Erin attended another multi-part training session on Co-Developing Library Programs and
Services with the Community.
Rosemary Hammock attended several training sessions on working with challenging patrons.
19
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2023 2024 2024 2024 2024 2024 2024
Tracked by #searches
A to Z Databases 1740 1695 1229 2435 1137 878 864 814 10792
Alexander Street **********82 37 119 238
Ancestry 976 937 881 451 789 91 183 290 4598
AskART 55 22 71 17 18 9 17 16 225
Brainfuse JobNow/VetNow 82 48 43 21 37 20 21 25 297
Britannica School Edition 23 4 126 613 50 357 49 23 1245
Exploring Race in Society 2 0 14 7 2 0 10 10 45
Gale Archives Unbound 1977 7446 1971 2410 7450 2190 3506 1318 28268
Gale Directory Library 17 2 0 77 9 17 5 52 179
Gale in Context: Biography 9 7 21 64 18 4 23 7 153
Gale in Context: Elementary 10 23 10 30 12 5 2 11 103
Gale in Context: Environmental ***12 21 1 8 6 48
Gale in Context: Opposing View 8 1 33 54 1078 76 129 68 1447
Gale Interactive: Science ***1 0 0 2 0 3
Gale Literature Resource Center 8 2 14 53 15 8 42 1306 1448
Gale Virtual Reference Library 46 28 12 33 209 21 33 34 416
HeritageQuest 224 241 140 92 233 95 118 50 1193
Legal Information Ref Center 72 65 25 28 33 23 75 118 439
National Geographic 24 14 62 38 28 21 32 26 245
National Geographic Kids 23 13 45 53 21 3 17 20 195
NewsBank 1292 1211 1634 1190 1092 1084 1992 1250 10745
NoveList Plus 48 84 37 423 225 112 65 150 1144
NoveList K-8 Plus 22 44 22 72 36 0 8 24 228
ProQuest 2587 2605 2748 3262 3259 3073 5157 3937 26628
Proquest eLibrary 2 4 1 7 1 0 18 5 38
Reference Solutions Business 1883 614 389 481 337 159 202 445 4510
Reference Solutions Residential 91 32 34 866 19 156 14 17 1229
SIRS Discoverer 0 3 15 260 454 0 83 99 914
SIRS Issues Researcher 192 3 4 675 2331 1692 5034 6284 16215
World Book Online 4 8 99 225 49 6 11 261 663
Tracked by #page views
Artist Works 4 3 3 1 6 5 3 4 29
Consumer Reports 3496 2508 2216 2099 3030 2099 3005 1826 20279
CultureGrams 26 45 22 224 30 34 32 22 435
Morningstar 5899 5543 3825 4267 4883 4093 3998 3894 36402
RealQuest 11 0 403 5 2 0 0 43 464
Tumblebooks 12 24 16 89 19 13 5 27 205
Value Line 13295 11823 13609 15082 16193 12548 9703 11421 103674
Tracked by courses
LinkedIn Learning 349 190 200 235 162 151 264 185 1736
Tracked by books logged
Beanstack 10374 4111 3584 3762 3903 1765 3535 2548 33582
Tracked by Hours Used
ABC Mouse 27.68 30.40 18.77 20.53 25.83 43.01 56.18 52.95 275.35
Beanstack 4603 199 103 153 142 119 129 108.5 5557
Rosetta Stone 16.12 47.18 23.15 37.60 24.80 17.23 25.51 21.68 213.27
Notes:
* Began October 2023** Began December 2023
Database FY Comparisons YTD 23/24
Proquest Articles Retrieved 2023-2024
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun AVG.
Business Databases 1322 943 1235 1568 1498 1756 2099 1719 1518
Newspapers--Current 656 1022 919 941 580 805 1578 1518 1002
Newspapers--Historical 1966 3410 1962 2116 2144 2078 1914 1523 2139
Magazines 19 22 12 36 49 25 38 23 28
20
NBPL Website Usage 2023-24
Metric Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Total Users 23559 23192 20322 20852 19689 19396 22873 21750 21454 171633
New Users 22806 22634 19381 19876 18796 18098 21385 20253 20404 163229
Sessions 44852 41809 38321 39420 36151 35900 43569 41485 40188 321507
Pageviews 97997 72390 67543 67569 62349 57142 74055 71726 71346 570771
Sessions Per User 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 --
Pages Per Session 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 --
Avg. Session Dur. (min)3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 --
Bounce Rate (%)54 58 56 58 57 60 58 58 57 --
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Total Data Transferred (GB) 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 240 157 342 257 478 206 503 594 347 2776
CdM 220 242 144 153 108 124 175 163 166 1329
Mariners 1710 1500 1660 1900 1830 2810 2380 2070 1983 15860
Central 11410 12170 12450 11900 10690 10040 11170 10640 11309 90470
Total 13580 14069 14596 14210 13106 13180 14228 13467 13804 110435
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Total Unique Patrons 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 518 445 401 377 331 333 284 293 373 2982
CdM 470 449 392 409 330 322 321 329 378 3022
Mariners 1575 1578 1679 1789 1541 1279 1267 1209 1490 11917
Central 8775 9524 9451 9593 8811 8795 8136 7983 8884 71068
Total 11338 11996 11923 12168 11013 10729 10008 9814 11124 88989
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Average Number of Patrons Per Day 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 44 41 40 37 33 31 31 28 36 285
CdM 30 30 26 25 21 21 22 23 25 198
Mariners 124 125 139 151 128 109 112 112 125 1000
Central 654 661 651 684 604 583 563 608 626 5008
Total 852 857 856 897 786 744 728 771 811 6491
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Average Usage Per Patron (MB) 2023-24
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 474 361 874 698 1440 632 1770 2030 1035 8279
CdM 480 552 376 382 336 394 558 509 448 3586
Mariners 1110 999 1010 1090 1210 2250 1920 1750 1417 11339
Central 1330 1310 1350 1270 1240 1170 1410 1360 1305 10440
Total 3394 3222 3610 3440 4226 4446 5658 5649 4206 33644
21
FEB 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 2,488 18,465 20,860
CdM 3,392 29,338 24,316
MARINERS 20,198 169,005 163,540
CENTRAL 47,417 421,334 445,579
eBooks 7,965 62,500 57,266
eMagazines 5,380 36,396 16,335
eAudiobooks 6,615 51,229 47,527
Streaming Films 3,291 18,266 5,720
TOTAL 96,746 806,533 781,143
MAR 23 102,817
APR 23 94,662
MAY 23 96,156
JUN 23 98,173
JUL 23 104,890
AUG 23 102,859
SEP 23 100,092
OCT 23 102,739
NOV 23 98,850
DEC 23 95,713
JAN 24 104,644
FEB 24 96,746
TOTAL 1,198,341
12 Month Comparison
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - FEBRUARY 2024
CIRCULATION
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
eBooks
eMagazines
eAudiobooks
Streaming Films
85,000
90,000
95,000
100,000
105,000
110,000
MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24
1,598,265
1,610,818
1,529,391
1,464,640
1,424,594
1,376,041
1,084,526
1,043,629
1,195,151 1,172,951
1,000,000
1,125,000
1,250,000
1,375,000
1,500,000
1,625,000
1,750,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
CIRCULATION
22
FEB 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 390 3,019 2,602
CdM 514 4,497 5,092
MARINERS 2,050 15,912 14,224
CENTRAL 6,700 51,434 47,573
TOTAL 9,654 74,862 69,491
12 Month Comparison
MAR 23 10,508
APR 23 8,626
MAY 23 8,917
JUN 23 10,700
JUL 23 10,933
AUG 23 10,069
SEP 23 9,437
OCT 23 8,929
NOV 23 8,384
DEC 23 7,645
JAN 24 9,811
FEB 24 9,654
TOTAL 113,613
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - FEBRUARY 2024
REFERENCE
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
6,500
7,500
8,500
9,500
10,500
11,500
MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24
190,391 168,496
162,510
157,149
156,521
163,392
131,445
78,088
105,958
108,242
70,000
90,000
110,000
130,000
150,000
170,000
190,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
REFERENCE
23
FEB 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 2,017 16,381 16,615
CdM 2,661 24,008 20,248
MARINERS 12,391 105,652 91,222
CENTRAL 36,036 288,745 270,657
TOTAL 53,105 434,786 398,742
12 Month Comparison
MAR 23 59,398
APR 23 59,010
MAY 23 53,465
JUN 23 52,680
JUL 23 55,882
AUG 23 56,811
SEP 23 54,320
OCT 23 56,154
NOV 23 48,061
DEC 23 47,392
JAN 24 63,061
FEB 24 53,105
TOTAL 659,339
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - FEBRUARY 2024
PATRONS SERVED
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24
1,399,841
1,256,238 1,209,719
1,102,106
1,158,344
935,953
636,072
145,463
512,178 623,295
100,000
300,000
500,000
700,000
900,000
1,100,000
1,300,000
1,500,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
PATRONS SERVED IN LIBRARY
24
FEB 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 268 1,677 1,141
CdM 1,035 7,583 5,301
MARINERS 1,787 9,752 6,441
CENTRAL 5,967 47,140 37,604
TOTAL 9,057 66,152 50,487
12 Month Comparison
MAR 23 6,022
APR 23 6,001
MAY 23 8,113
JUN 23 7,670
JUL 23 9,541
AUG 23 3,725
SEP 23 9,851
OCT 23 10,526
NOV 23 7,448
DEC 23 7,204
JAN 24 8,800
FEB 24 9,057
TOTAL 93,958
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - FEBRUARY 2024
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24
49,977
64,473
67,646 69,922
70,430
68,241
68,078
52,678
64,397
78,293
45,000
55,000
65,000
75,000
85,000
FY 13/14 FY 14/15 FY 15/16 FY 16/17 FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 FY 20/21 FY 21/22 FY 22/23
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
25
LIBRARY EXPENDITURES FY 2024-25
(March 5, 2024)
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
ORIGINAL
APPROP
REVISED
BUDGET
YTD
EXPENDED
MONTHLY
EXPENDED
AVAILABLE
BUDGET
I SALARY & BENEFITS
SALARY FULL-TIME REGULAR 3,156,337 3,156,337 1,981,975 246,238 1,174,362
SALARY PART-TIME 1,279,860 1,324,256 572,350 68,321 751,907
BENEFITS 2,247,901 2,371,705 1,582,156 280,343 789,550
SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL 6,684,098 6,852,299 4,136,480 594,902 2,715,819
II MAINT & OPERATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*207,488 207,488 129,884 196 77,604
UTILITIES 372,933 372,933 250,750 22,997 122,183
PROGRAMMING 2,000 5,800 2,668 84 3,132
SUPPLIES**82,800 84,186 51,858 4,848 32,328
LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 671,087 590,848 37,917 80,239
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 250,275 260,864 147,861 9,587 113,003
TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 2,885 452 7,796
GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***24,202 25,920 15,942 1,731 9,978
PERIPHERALS & SOFTWARE 5,000 3,960 28 0 3,932
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,693,396 1,693,396 1,270,047 282,233 423,349
OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 379 0 1,621
MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,320,516 3,338,317 2,463,151 360,044 875,166
LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL 10,004,613 10,190,616 6,599,631 954,946 3,590,984
*PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE
**INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES
***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE
26
Previous
Agenda Date AGENDA ITEM Scheduled
Agenda Date
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
Mar 20, 2023 Mar 18, 2024
Apr 17, 2023 Apr 15, 2024
Apr 17, 2023 Apr 15, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
Jun 19, 2023 Jun 17, 2024
Jun 19, 2023 Jun 17, 2024
Jul 17, 2023 Jul 15, 2024
Jul 17, 2023 Jul 15, 2024
Aug 21, 2023 Aug 19, 2024
Aug 21, 2023 Aug 19, 2024
Sep 18, 2023 Sep 16, 2024
Oct 16, 2023 Oct 21, 2024
Oct 16, 2023 Oct 21, 2024
Dec 11, 2023 Dec 16, 2024
Jan 16, 2024 Jan 21, 2025
Feb 26, 2024 Feb 18, 2025
Feb 26, 2024 Feb 18, 2025
LAST
REVIEWED POLICY REVIEW
Feb 26, 2024 NBPL 3 Library Gift and Donor Policy Mar 18, 2024
Jul 18, 2022 CC I-1 Library Services Policy (Council Policy I -1)Jul 15, 2024
Sep 19, 2022 NBPL 9 Expressive Use Areas Sep 16, 2024
Nov 21, 2022 NBPL 6 Media Lab Use Policy Nov 18, 2024
Nov 21, 2022 NBPL 7 Sound Lab Use Policy Nov 18, 2024
Jan 17, 2023 NBPL 12 Circulation Policy Jan 21, 2025
Jan 17, 2023 NBPL 5 Internet Use Policy Jan 21, 2025
Jan 17, 2023 NBPL 11 Rules for Acceptable Use of Wireless Internet Connections Jan 21, 2025
Feb 21, 2023 NBPL 8 Display and Distribution of Materials Policy Feb 18, 2025
Apr 17, 2023 NBPL 1 Library Use Policy Apr 21, 2025
Apr 17, 2023 NBPL 13 Study Rooms/Charles Sword Meeting Room Policy Apr 21, 2025
Jun 19, 2023 NBPL 4 Children in the Library Policy Jun 16, 2025
Aug 21, 2023 NBPL 14 The Friends Meeting Room Aug 18, 2025
Dec 11, 2023 NBPL 10 Laptop Borrowing Policy Dec 15, 2025
Jan 16, 2024 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy Jan 20, 2026
Branch Update - Mariners
Review Holidays / Meeting Schedule
Annual Budget - Approval
Branch Update - Balboa
Library Material Selection
Marketing Update & Social Networking Update
Media Lab Update
Proposed Library Closures for Winter Holidays
Youth Services Update
Election of Board of Library Trustees Officers/Trustee Liaisons
Literacy Program Update
Information Technology Update
Adult and Reference Services Update
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES MONITORING LIST
Lecture Hall Update
Balboa Branch Replacement Update
Annual Budget - Preliminary Review
Branch Update - CDM
Arts & Cultural Update
Financial Report Comparison of Beginning Budget to End of the Year Amended Budget
Newport Beach Public Library eBranch, Database and Downloadable Services Review
Performance Review of Library Services Director (Closed Session)
Policy Review (See List Below)
27
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
March 18, 2024
Agenda Item No. 6
Balboa Branch Report March 2023—February 2024
Background
The Balboa Branch (Balboa) is the founding branch of the Newport Beach Public Library, established in
May 1929. The original building was constructed around existing public restrooms. Since then, the building
has been expanded two times. In 1952, the Spanish-style exterior was replaced with the present-day glass
front entrance. In 1962, Balboa was expanded again to its current size. Fire Station #1 was added with
that expansion, being relocated from Washington Street and Bay Avenue. At that time, the Balboa Branch
was still the City’s main library. Today it is the third-largest branch in a four-branch library system.
Activity at Balboa is very seasonal; summer is the busiest time of year. In addition to the usual business
Balboa sees a lot of foot traffic, computer and printer use by visitors, and children participating in the
Summer Reading Program.
Daily Operations
The Branch is open 54 hours per week, Monday through Saturday, and closed on Sundays.
Balboa has a few special collections. One is its Nautical Collection, which consists of fiction, nonfiction,
and DVDs. The Nautical Nonfiction collection consists of practical books on boating and sailing, repair
manuals, narratives, and history. Another of Balboa’s special collections is the 3D Blu-ray collection for
adults and children.
For children’s programming, Balboa presents two storytimes per week. This year, we have added a new
weekly program, Toy Train Thursdays. Additionally, one special program per month such as a craft
program or performer, is presented, with weekly special events happening during the Summer Reading
Program. Youth Services staff has just started tracking Stay & Play, and those numbers will be included on
next year’s report.
Library visits with a story and tour are offered to first graders from Newport Elementary, the nearby
elementary school.
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Evelyn Rogers, Balboa Branch Librarian
TITLE: Balboa Branch Update
28
Balboa Branch Update
March 18, 2024
Page 2
Personnel
Balboa is staffed by one full-time librarian, one part-time library assistant, two part-time library clerks,
and one library page.
The “Balboa Crew” is currently Branch Librarian Evelyn Rogers, Library Assistant Taylor Stephenson,
Library Clerk Mike Payne, and Library Page Chloe Nelson. The second part-time library clerk position
should be filled soon.
Facility Maintenance
Current Project
At 95 years old, Balboa is the oldest operating City building in Newport Beach. Currently, the facility is
scheduled to be replaced in 2025, with a new Balboa Branch and Fire Station #1 on the site of their present
location.
In preparation for the branch replacement, Balboa staff has begun cleaning out drawers and cabinets. The
Balboa Branch Librarian completed an inventory of the entire branch’s circulating and reference
collections. That experience provided a picture of the collection as a whole; what areas circulate more,
what circulates less now, the condition of materials, and where it would be good to focus going forward.
Collection Maintenance
Balboa’s collection consists of 26,300 items. Staff continues to weed and update Balboa’s various
collections, offering new and relevant materials and keeping an eye on how we can best meet the needs
of patrons.
Popular Collections
Adult Fiction, Mystery (new and old), Lucky Day, cookbooks, and self-help all continue to be popular.
Children’s materials circulate very well, especially fiction series and Children’s Graphic Novels. The Teen
collection is good and circulates fairly well.
Public Service
Circulation and Reference Services
Balboa’s service population is 12,033 (the area of Newport Beach City Council District 1, which includes
Balboa Peninsula and Lido Isle). That number becomes significantly higher during summer with tourists
and visitors who rent houses on the peninsula, many of whom obtain NBPL Non-Resident library cards
when they visit.
29
Balboa Branch Update
March 18, 2024
Page 3
27,853 Balboa items checked out in the period from March 2023 to February 2024:
For the same time period Balboa saw a total of 4,423 walk-in and telephone reference questions:
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000
March 2023
April 2023
May 2023
June 2023
July 2023
August 2023
September 2023
October 2023
November 2023
December 2023
January 2024
February 2024
Checkouts
Checkouts
0 100 200 300 400 500
March 2023
April 2023
May 2023
June 2023
July 2023
August 2023
September 2023
October 2023
November 2023
December 2023
January 2024
February 2024
Reference
Phone
In Person
30
Balboa Branch Update
March 18, 2024
Page 4
Children’s Services and Program Attendance
Balboa’s weekly programs are Preschool Storytime, Books & Babies Storytime, and new program Toy Train
Thursdays. Special programs featuring crafts or performers are also offered for children each month.
Storytime numbers are up from last year and steady for both Preschool Storytime and Books & Babies.
Special program numbers are also higher this year.
Next month, staff will be adding some passive Teen programming.
Children’s Storytimes attended by 2,027 people and Special programs, attended by 633:
Summer Reading
Staff looks forward to visiting the elementary schools to present information and promote enthusiasm for
the Summer Reading Program. We anticipate lots of participation as we have great weekly programs
planned with live performers and creative craft programs.
Summary Comments
The staff at Balboa provides library service while paying attention to the way patrons currently use the
branch. While some usage has shifted in the last couple years, Balboa continues to offer an up-to-date,
popular collection, supplemented with materials useful for study and keeping the Nautical Collection as
current as possible.
Children’s programming is a strength for Balboa. The staff is creative and always presents quality crafts,
games, and storytimes. Patron feedback is positive and most of the attendees are regulars. Lots of repeat
customers! Staff puts in the work to continue this trend, along with a quality children’s collection, going
forward.
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
March 2023
April 2023
May 2023
June 2023
July 2023
August 2023
September 2023
October 2023
November 2023
December 2023
January 2024
February 2024
Children's Program Attendance
Storytime
Special/Family
31
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
March 18, 2024
Agenda Item No. 7
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees review and approve revisions to Library Policy NBPL 3,
Gift and Donor Policy.
DISCUSSION:
At the request of Board of Library Trustees Chair Paul Watkins, staff has made two minor modifications
to the Gift and Donor Policy. The first amendment is to add to the Foundation Gifts section, “an Internal
Revenue Code §”, to provide clarification and remain consistent throughout the policy. The second
amendment changes “instruction” to “education” for Pals4pal’s objectives.
NOTICING:
This agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of the meeting at
which the Board of Library Trustees considers the item).
ATTACHMENT A: Gift and Donor Policy (NBPL 3) – original
ATTACHMENT B: Gift and Donor Policy (NBPL 3) – redline
ATTACHMENT C: Gift and Donor Policy (NBPL 3) – final
ATTACHMENT D: Donor Recognition Walls – Central Library
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
TITLE: Gift and Donor Policy (NBPL 3)
32
1
NBPL 3
Library Gift and Donor Policy
The Newport Beach Public Library Board of Library Trustees encourages and welcomes gifts and
bequests to the Library. Gifts may be given to the Newport Beach Public Library, to the Newport
Beach Public Library Foundation, to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library, and/or to
Pals4pal.
It is the position of the Board of Library Trustees that gifts and bequests given to the Library shall be
used to supplement those funds appropriated for use by the Library and shall not in any way
supplant such funds appropriated for Library salaries and maintenance and operations of the
Library.
Foundation Gifts
The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation (“Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) institutionally related
independent foundation. The Foundation solicits funds, conducts programs, and disburses grant
monies for the benefit of the Newport Beach Public Library.
All donors who contribute to the Foundation shall be recognized in a manner as designated by the
Foundation.
All service clubs, Parent Teacher Associations, schools, or other organizations who collectively
donate $2,500 or more shall be recognized by the organizational name.
Dedication opportunities exist for those donors who make gifts to specific areas of the Library. Gifts
to fund specific collections or areas of the Library must be reviewed and approved by the Board of
Library Trustees and be compatible with the Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) of the Library.
Items purchased for a specific subject will not be kept separately but will be integrated into the
collection.
Recognition of pledges to fund special collections or areas of the Library shall be based upon the
total amount pledged. Donors of gifts of $5,000 or greater shall have no more than five (5) years to
complete the pledge. If the pledge is not fulfilled, the Board of Library Trustees has the right to
rescind recognition. Appropriate recognition of items will be given to donors at the discretion of the
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation Board. Any modification to the foregoing dollar amounts
and exception to this policy concerning gifts to the Foundation to fund specific collections or areas
of the Library will require the express approval of the Newport Beach Library Board of Library
Trustees.
Donor Recognition Walls
At the February 4, 2013 regular meeting, the Board of Library Trustees approved donor recognition
walls within the Central Library. A donor recognition wall consists of a listing of the name of a
person (or persons) or a company that contributed funds to a capital campaign or other major
fundraising . The fundamental purposes of a donor recognition wall are to honor the major financial
contributors of an organization, and to serve as an incentive for potential donors to contribute. The
Foundation has established the funding level for each designated donor wall. The donor recognition
walls within the Central Library, which are still available as of the date that this policy was last
amended and are shown on the attached diagram, include the following locations:
ATTACHMENT A
33
2
• Children's Activities Area ($500,000)
• Media Center ($250,000)
• Sound Lab ($75,000)
• Media Lab ($100,000)
• Grand Stairway ($500,000)
• Second Floor Reading/Study Area (East Side) ($150,000)
• Second Floor Self-Checkout Area ($200,000)
At the February 4, 2013 regular meeting, the Board of Library Trustees also approved guidelines for
the letter size and banner length of the donor recognition walls:
• Children's Activities Area: 2.5" letters up to 13' banner length
• Media Center: 2" letters up to 10' banner length
• Sound Lab: 2" letters up to 5' banner length
• Media Lab: 2” letters up to 8’ banner length
• Grand Stairway: 3" letters up to 13' banner length
• Second Floor Reading/Study Area (East Side): 2.5" letters up to 13' banner length
• Second Floor Self-Checkout Area: 2" letters up to 8' banner length to be located above the
video screen
The Board further approved a guideline to limit the lettering on donor walls, with the exception of
“Second Floor Reading/Study Area (West Side)”, which already serves as a donor recognition wall
and is no longer available, to a single line. The design and content of donor recognition walls must
be reviewed and approved by the Board of Library Trustees. Recognition will consist of stainless-
steel lettering that adheres to the parameters approved by the Board of Library Trustees (size of
letters and length of single line on wall). Donors shall have no control over the size, location,
materials, or any other aspect of the recognition sign.
Recognition shall be permanent unless a corresponding pledge is not fulfilled over five years.
Additional names shall not be added to a named wall. If a pledge payment is not paid within 90 days
following written notice to the most recent address provided to the Foundation, the Board of
Library Trustees shall have the right to remove the name recognition. No payments made prior to
that time shall be refundable in any event. If the pledge payment is due from an estate settlement,
the estate shall have up to one year from the date of the pledge payment date to fulfill the pledge.
In the event that the area of the Library with the donor's name is significantly renovated,
demolished, or is no longer used for Library purposes, either voluntarily or involuntarily, the
Foundation and the Trustees will work with the donor, or the donor’s designee, successor or assigns
to determine another appropriate form of recognition for the support provided by the Gift. In such
case, any payments not yet paid by the donor shall no longer be due.
Any modification to the foregoing dollar amounts or to the letter size and banner length, or any
exception to this policy concerning donor recognition walls will require the express approval of the
Board of Library Trustees.
Friends Gifts
The Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library is an Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3)
organization.
34
3
The Friends accept donations of used books to be sold in the Friends Book Store. The disposition of
donated books is determined by the Bookstore Manager. Other gifts offered to the Friends will be
reviewed and considered for acceptance by the Friends Board. Recognition of donations shall be
recommended by the Friends Board and considered for approval by the Board of Library Trustees.
Project Adult Literacy Gifts
Pals4pal is an Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3) organization. Pals4pal solicits funds and disburses
monies for the benefit of Project Adult Literacy. Pals4pal acts as an advocate for Project Adult
Literacy to help foster awareness of the program and raise funds to support adult literacy
instruction.
Library Gifts
Gifts offered directly to the Library will be reviewed and considered for acceptance by the Board of
Library Trustees. Gifts to the Library are also tax deductible. Recognition of donations by plaques,
signage or other permanent display shall be approved by the Board of Library Trustees.
Dedication opportunities exist for those donors who make gifts to specific areas of the Library on
behalf of the Library. Gifts to fund specific collections or areas of the Library must be reviewed and
approved by the Board of Library Trustees and be compatible with the Collection Development
Policy (NBPL 2) of the Library. Items purchased for a specific subject will not be kept separately but
will be integrated into the collection.
All donations of gifts and property to the Newport Beach Public Library not covered by the
Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) must be approved by the Board of Library Trustees. The
Board reserves the right to decide the time and place for display and use of any gift. The ultimate
disposition of the gift lies within the sole province of the Board of Library Trustees.
Adopted March 11, 1991
Amended October 28, 1991
Amended February 10, 1992
Amended January 24, 1994
Amended March 9, 1998
Reassigned April 8, 2003
Amended October 18, 2005
Amended October 10, 2006
Amended August 20, 2018
Amended January 21, 2020
Amended February 22, 2022
Amended February 26, 2024
Formerly 0-8
Formerly 1-17
Formerly I-4
Formerly I-5
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on February 26, 2024.
35
1
NBPL 3
Library Gift and Donor Policy
The Newport Beach Public Library Board of Library Trustees encourages and welcomes gifts and
bequests to the Library. Gifts may be given to the Newport Beach Public Library, to the Newport
Beach Public Library Foundation, to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library, and/or to
Pals4pal.
It is the position of the Board of Library Trustees that gifts and bequests given to the Library shall be
used to supplement those funds appropriated for use by the Library and shall not in any way
supplant such funds appropriated for Library salaries and maintenance and operations of the
Library.
Foundation Gifts
The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation (“Foundation”) is an Internal Revenue Code §
501(c)(3) institutionally related independent foundation. The Foundation solicits funds, conducts
programs, and disburses grant monies for the benefit of the Newport Beach Public Library.
All donors who contribute to the Foundation shall be recognized in a manner as designated by the
Foundation.
All service clubs, Parent Teacher Associations, schools, or other organizations who collectively
donate $2,500 or more shall be recognized by the organizational name.
Dedication opportunities exist for those donors who make gifts to specific areas of the Library. Gifts
to fund specific collections or areas of the Library must be reviewed and approved by the Board of
Library Trustees and be compatible with the Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) of the Library.
Items purchased for a specific subject will not be kept separately but will be integrated into the
collection.
Recognition of pledges to fund special collections or areas of the Library shall be based upon the
total amount pledged. Donors of gifts of $5,000 or greater shall have no more than five (5) years to
complete the pledge. If the pledge is not fulfilled, the Board of Library Trustees has the right to
rescind recognition. Appropriate recognition of items will be given to donors at the discretion of the
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation Board. Any modification to the foregoing dollar amounts
and exception to this policy concerning gifts to the Foundation to fund specific collections or areas
of the Library will require the express approval of the Newport Beach Library Board of Library
Trustees.
Donor Recognition Walls
At the February 4, 2013 regular meeting, the Board of Library Trustees approved donor recognition
walls within the Central Library. A donor recognition wall consists of a listing of the name of a
person (or persons) or a company that contributed funds to a capital campaign or other major
fundraising . The fundamental purposes of a donor recognition wall are to honor the major financial
contributors of an organization, and to serve as an incentive for potential donors to contribute. The
Foundation has established the funding level for each designated donor wall. The donor recognition
walls within the Central Library, which are still available as of the date that this policy was last
amended and are shown on the attached diagram, include the following locations:
ATTACHMENT B
36
2
•Children's Activities Area ($500,000)
•Media Center ($250,000)
•Sound Lab ($75,000)
•Media Lab ($100,000)
•Grand Stairway ($500,000)
•Second Floor Reading/Study Area (East Side) ($150,000)
•Second Floor Self-Checkout Area ($200,000)
At the February 4, 2013 regular meeting, the Board of Library Trustees also approved guidelines for
the letter size and banner length of the donor recognition walls:
•Children's Activities Area: 2.5" letters up to 13' banner length
•Media Center: 2" letters up to 10' banner length
•Sound Lab: 2" letters up to 5' banner length
•Media Lab: 2” letters up to 8’ banner length
•Grand Stairway: 3" letters up to 13' banner length
•Second Floor Reading/Study Area (East Side): 2.5" letters up to 13' banner length
•Second Floor Self-Checkout Area: 2" letters up to 8' banner length to be located above the
video screen
The Board further approved a guideline to limit the lettering on donor walls, with the exception of
“Second Floor Reading/Study Area (West Side)”, which already serves as a donor recognition wall
and is no longer available, to a single line. The design and content of donor recognition walls must
be reviewed and approved by the Board of Library Trustees. Recognition will consist of stainless-
steel lettering that adheres to the parameters approved by the Board of Library Trustees (size of
letters and length of single line on wall). Donors shall have no control over the size, location,
materials, or any other aspect of the recognition sign.
Recognition shall be permanent unless a corresponding pledge is not fulfilled over five years.
Additional names shall not be added to a named wall. If a pledge payment is not paid within 90 days
following written notice to the most recent address provided to the Foundation, the Board of
Library Trustees shall have the right to remove the name recognition. No payments made prior to
that time shall be refundable in any event. If the pledge payment is due from an estate settlement,
the estate shall have up to one year from the date of the pledge payment date to fulfill the pledge.
In the event that the area of the Library with the donor's name is significantly renovated,
demolished, or is no longer used for Library purposes, either voluntarily or involuntarily, the
Foundation and the Trustees will work with the donor, or the donor’s designee, successor or assigns
to determine another appropriate form of recognition for the support provided by the Gift. In such
case, any payments not yet paid by the donor shall no longer be due.
Any modification to the foregoing dollar amounts or to the letter size and banner length, or any
exception to this policy concerning donor recognition walls will require the express approval of the
Board of Library Trustees.
Friends Gifts
The Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library is an Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3)
organization.
37
3
The Friends accept donations of used books to be sold in the Friends Book Store. The disposition of
donated books is determined by the Bookstore Manager. Other gifts offered to the Friends will be
reviewed and considered for acceptance by the Friends Board. Recognition of donations shall be
recommended by the Friends Board and considered for approval by the Board of Library Trustees.
Project Adult Literacy Gifts
Pals4pal is an Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3) organization. Pals4pal solicits funds and disburses
monies for the benefit of Project Adult Literacy. Pals4pal acts as an advocate for Project Adult
Literacy to help foster awareness of the program and raise funds to support adult literacy
instructioneducation.
Library Gifts
Gifts offered directly to the Library will be reviewed and considered for acceptance by the Board of
Library Trustees. Gifts to the Library are also tax deductible. Recognition of donations by plaques,
signage or other permanent display shall be approved by the Board of Library Trustees.
Dedication opportunities exist for those donors who make gifts to specific areas of the Library on
behalf of the Library. Gifts to fund specific collections or areas of the Library must be reviewed and
approved by the Board of Library Trustees and be compatible with the Collection Development
Policy (NBPL 2) of the Library. Items purchased for a specific subject will not be kept separately but
will be integrated into the collection.
All donations of gifts and property to the Newport Beach Public Library not covered by the
Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) must be approved by the Board of Library Trustees. The
Board reserves the right to decide the time and place for display and use of any gift. The ultimate
disposition of the gift lies within the sole province of the Board of Library Trustees.
Adopted March 11, 1991
Amended October 28, 1991
Amended February 10, 1992
Amended January 24, 1994
Amended March 9, 1998
Reassigned April 8, 2003
Amended October 18, 2005
Amended October 10, 2006
Amended August 20, 2018
Amended January 21, 2020
Amended February 22, 2022
Amended February 26, 2024
Amended March 18, 2024
Formerly 0-8
Formerly 1-17
Formerly I-4
Formerly I-5
38
4
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on February 26March 18, 2024.
39
1
NBPL 3
Library Gift and Donor Policy
The Newport Beach Public Library Board of Library Trustees encourages and welcomes gifts and
bequests to the Library. Gifts may be given to the Newport Beach Public Library, to the Newport
Beach Public Library Foundation, to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library, and/or to
Pals4pal.
It is the position of the Board of Library Trustees that gifts and bequests given to the Library shall be
used to supplement those funds appropriated for use by the Library and shall not in any way
supplant such funds appropriated for Library salaries and maintenance and operations of the
Library.
Foundation Gifts
The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation (“Foundation”) is an Internal Revenue Code §
501(c)(3) institutionally related independent foundation. The Foundation solicits funds, conducts
programs, and disburses grant monies for the benefit of the Newport Beach Public Library.
All donors who contribute to the Foundation shall be recognized in a manner as designated by the
Foundation.
All service clubs, Parent Teacher Associations, schools, or other organizations who collectively
donate $2,500 or more shall be recognized by the organizational name.
Dedication opportunities exist for those donors who make gifts to specific areas of the Library. Gifts
to fund specific collections or areas of the Library must be reviewed and approved by the Board of
Library Trustees and be compatible with the Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) of the Library.
Items purchased for a specific subject will not be kept separately but will be integrated into the
collection.
Recognition of pledges to fund special collections or areas of the Library shall be based upon the
total amount pledged. Donors of gifts of $5,000 or greater shall have no more than five (5) years to
complete the pledge. If the pledge is not fulfilled, the Board of Library Trustees has the right to
rescind recognition. Appropriate recognition of items will be given to donors at the discretion of the
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation Board. Any modification to the foregoing dollar amounts
and exception to this policy concerning gifts to the Foundation to fund specific collections or areas
of the Library will require the express approval of the Newport Beach Library Board of Library
Trustees.
Donor Recognition Walls
At the February 4, 2013 regular meeting, the Board of Library Trustees approved donor recognition
walls within the Central Library. A donor recognition wall consists of a listing of the name of a
person (or persons) or a company that contributed funds to a capital campaign or other major
fundraising . The fundamental purposes of a donor recognition wall are to honor the major financial
contributors of an organization, and to serve as an incentive for potential donors to contribute. The
Foundation has established the funding level for each designated donor wall. The donor recognition
walls within the Central Library, which are still available as of the date that this policy was last
amended and are shown on the attached diagram, include the following locations:
ATTACHMENT C
40
2
• Children's Activities Area ($500,000)
• Media Center ($250,000)
• Sound Lab ($75,000)
• Media Lab ($100,000)
• Grand Stairway ($500,000)
• Second Floor Reading/Study Area (East Side) ($150,000)
• Second Floor Self-Checkout Area ($200,000)
At the February 4, 2013 regular meeting, the Board of Library Trustees also approved guidelines for
the letter size and banner length of the donor recognition walls:
• Children's Activities Area: 2.5" letters up to 13' banner length
• Media Center: 2" letters up to 10' banner length
• Sound Lab: 2" letters up to 5' banner length
• Media Lab: 2” letters up to 8’ banner length
• Grand Stairway: 3" letters up to 13' banner length
• Second Floor Reading/Study Area (East Side): 2.5" letters up to 13' banner length
• Second Floor Self-Checkout Area: 2" letters up to 8' banner length to be located above the
video screen
The Board further approved a guideline to limit the lettering on donor walls, with the exception of
“Second Floor Reading/Study Area (West Side)”, which already serves as a donor recognition wall
and is no longer available, to a single line. The design and content of donor recognition walls must
be reviewed and approved by the Board of Library Trustees. Recognition will consist of stainless-
steel lettering that adheres to the parameters approved by the Board of Library Trustees (size of
letters and length of single line on wall). Donors shall have no control over the size, location,
materials, or any other aspect of the recognition sign.
Recognition shall be permanent unless a corresponding pledge is not fulfilled over five years.
Additional names shall not be added to a named wall. If a pledge payment is not paid within 90 days
following written notice to the most recent address provided to the Foundation, the Board of
Library Trustees shall have the right to remove the name recognition. No payments made prior to
that time shall be refundable in any event. If the pledge payment is due from an estate settlement,
the estate shall have up to one year from the date of the pledge payment date to fulfill the pledge.
In the event that the area of the Library with the donor's name is significantly renovated,
demolished, or is no longer used for Library purposes, either voluntarily or involuntarily, the
Foundation and the Trustees will work with the donor, or the donor’s designee, successor or assigns
to determine another appropriate form of recognition for the support provided by the Gift. In such
case, any payments not yet paid by the donor shall no longer be due.
Any modification to the foregoing dollar amounts or to the letter size and banner length, or any
exception to this policy concerning donor recognition walls will require the express approval of the
Board of Library Trustees.
Friends Gifts
The Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library is an Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3)
organization.
41
3
The Friends accept donations of used books to be sold in the Friends Book Store. The disposition of
donated books is determined by the Bookstore Manager. Other gifts offered to the Friends will be
reviewed and considered for acceptance by the Friends Board. Recognition of donations shall be
recommended by the Friends Board and considered for approval by the Board of Library Trustees.
Project Adult Literacy Gifts
Pals4pal is an Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3) organization. Pals4pal solicits funds and disburses
monies for the benefit of Project Adult Literacy. Pals4pal acts as an advocate for Project Adult
Literacy to help foster awareness of the program and raise funds to support adult literacy
education.
Library Gifts
Gifts offered directly to the Library will be reviewed and considered for acceptance by the Board of
Library Trustees. Gifts to the Library are also tax deductible. Recognition of donations by plaques,
signage or other permanent display shall be approved by the Board of Library Trustees.
Dedication opportunities exist for those donors who make gifts to specific areas of the Library on
behalf of the Library. Gifts to fund specific collections or areas of the Library must be reviewed and
approved by the Board of Library Trustees and be compatible with the Collection Development
Policy (NBPL 2) of the Library. Items purchased for a specific subject will not be kept separately but
will be integrated into the collection.
All donations of gifts and property to the Newport Beach Public Library not covered by the
Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) must be approved by the Board of Library Trustees. The
Board reserves the right to decide the time and place for display and use of any gift. The ultimate
disposition of the gift lies within the sole province of the Board of Library Trustees.
Adopted March 11, 1991
Amended October 28, 1991
Amended February 10, 1992
Amended January 24, 1994
Amended March 9, 1998
Reassigned April 8, 2003
Amended October 18, 2005
Amended October 10, 2006
Amended August 20, 2018
Amended January 21, 2020
Amended February 22, 2022
Amended February 26, 2024
Amended March 18, 2024
Formerly 0-8
Formerly 1-17
Formerly I-4
Formerly I-5
42
4
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on March 18, 2024.
43
CENTRAL LIBRARY LOWER LEVEL NAMING AREAS MEDIA CENTER $250,000 Media Lab $100,000 Sound Lab $75,000 GRAND STAIRWAY $500,000 CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES AREA $500,000 MEDIA LAB SOUND LAB ATTACHMENT D44
CENTRAL LIBRARY UPPER LEVEL NAMING AREAS SECOND FLOOR READING/STUDY AREA (East Side) $150,000 SECOND FLOOR SELF-CHECKOUT AREA $200,000 45
Jerold D Kappel, CEO
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation
Memo
To: Paul Watkins, Chair, Library Trustees
From: Jerold D Kappel, CEO
cc: Library Board of Trustees
Date: February 21, 2024
Re: Library Foundation Report
1. The Foundation has now $8.7 million in gifts and gift commitments toward its $12 million goal, 50% of the cost of the construction of Witte Hall.
2. The Groundbreaking for Witte Hall was Tuesday, February 27, at 2:30pm. A post-event reception was held for major donors to the Hall, Foundation Board, Library Trustees, Library leadership City Council members, and key City staff. The event was attended by over 70 people.
a. Press releases were sent to all local media and the event was featured in Stu News (twice), Daily Pilot, Coastal Current, Newport Beach Independent, OC Business Journal, and Patch
3. The Foundation followed up with an email to its 19,500-email list regarding the groundbreaking.
4. The Foundation’s webpage on the Beyond Books Campaign has been redesigned.
5. The planned giving campaign for the 30th anniversary of the Central Library is continuing.
6. Impacting our future programs will be if we must move the Witte, Library Live, and Spotlight on Science lectures to another facility once the construction on the Courtyard
begins. When that happens (projected for Spring 2025), the Friends Room will be limited to 49 people by the Fire Marshall. We are researching other City-controlled sites like the Oasis center to move the lectures when this happens.
a. Because of the potential limitations on the Friends Room in 2025, the Foundation will schedule all Winter-Spring lectures scheduled by April 30, 2025.
7. Program attendance continues to exceed budgeted goals. All Library Live and Witte Lecture programs have been sold out. The final Library Live with Tess Gunty and the Witte Lectures with Dahlia Lithwick will also sell out as there are very few tickets left.
46
2
8.The free community programs of the Foundation—Book Discussion Group (5), Medicine inOur Backyard (4), Financial Literacy Workshop (6), and Spotlight on Science (1)—attracted 775 in attendance.
9.Next Spotlight on Science lecture is on March 20: “Tracking Ice and Water in a ChangingClimate with AI” with UCI scientists Drs. Eric Rignot & Isabella Velicogna.
10.Final selection of speakers for the 2024-2025 season of Library Live and Witte Lectures is
in the final stages. The speakers will be selected and announced in the June Bookmark.
11.The Foundation will present 44 programs this season, 32 of these programs are free to thecommunity.
12. The March Board Meeting of the Library Foundation was on Monday March 11. The majortopic of discussion was the Beyond Books campaign.
13.Library Giving Day is in April and the Seed Bank and other Library initiatives will be
targeted in the solicitation.
14.The Summer Solstice event for new Foundation members and Library Leadership will beon June 12 and will feature a regional author/speaker.
Name of the event Dates Tickets Sold to date
Lisa See Thursday, October 19, 2023 SOLD OUT
Steve Lopez Thursday, November 9, 2023 SOLD OUT
Michael Moore Smith Thursday, February 15, 2024 SOLD OUT
Tess Gunty Thursday, April 18, 2024 178
Name of the event Friday/Saturday Tickets sold to date
Fiona Hill Friday, January 26, 2024 SOLD OUT
Saturday, January 27, 2024 SOLD OUT
Ed Yong Friday, February 9, 2024 SOLD OUT
Saturday, February 10, 2024 SOLD OUT
Richard Reeves Friday, March 8, 2024 SOLD OUT
Saturday, March 9, 2024 SOLD OUT
Dahlia Lithwick Friday, April 12, 2024 185
Saturday, April 13, 2024 208
Medicine in our
Backyard, Spotlight on
Science and Book
Discussion Group
775
Witte Lectures 2024
Library Live 2023-2024
Free Programs
47