HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-15-2024-BLT-AGENDA PACKETCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES CLOSED SESSION
3:30 P.M. / REGULAR MEETING 4:30 P.M. AGENDA
Civic Center Council Chambers
100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Monday, April 15, 2024 - 3:30 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 two (2) 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, April 14, 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.ROLL CALL - 3:30 P.M.
II.PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments are invited on agenda items. Speakers must limit comments to two (2)
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 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.
III.CLOSED SESSION
Discuss the Library Services Director’s Appointment, Employment and
Evaluation of Performance (Government Code § 54957).
1.
IV.RECESS
April 15, 2024
Page 2
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
V.RECONVENE AT 4:30 FOR REGULAR MEETING
VII.ROLL CALL
VII.CLOSED SESSION REPORT
VIII.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IX.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 two (2) 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.
X.PATRON APPEALS OF DIRECTOR'S DECISIONS
Appeal Hearing of "Melissa" by Alex Gina (pp. 5-44)2.
The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director's
Decision of "Melissa" by Alex Gino.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENTS A-C
Appeal Hearing of "Prince & Knight" by Daniel Haack (pp. 45-49)3.
The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director's
Decision of "Prince & Knight" by Daniel Haack.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENTS A-C
XI.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 March 18, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting (pp. 50-58)4.
DRAFT OF MINUTES
April 15, 2024
Page 3
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Patron Comments (pp. 59-61)5.
Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests
received from patrons.
PATRON COMMENTS
Library Activities (pp. 62-72)6.
Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics.
MARCH ACTIVITIES
Expenditure Status Report (pp. 73-74)7.
Monthly expenditure status of the library's operating expenses, services, salaries,
and benefits by department.
MARCH EXPENDITURES
Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List (p. 75)8.
List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of Library
Trustees.
MONITORING LIST
XII.CURRENT BUSINESS
A.Items for Review
Library Materials Selection (pp. 76-80)9.
Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey will provide an overview of materials
selection.
STAFF REPORT
Lecture Hall Update10.
Report on activities related to the Lecture Hall project.
Balboa Branch Replacement Update11.
Report on activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project.
April 15, 2024
Page 4
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Library Services (pp. 62-72)12.
Report of library issues regarding services, patrons and staff.
B.Monthly Reports
Library Foundation Liaison Reports (pp. 81-83)13.
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
Friends of the Library Liaison Report.14.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Pals4pal Liaison Report15.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Pals4pal Board meeting.
XIII.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
two (2) 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.
XIV.BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION,
ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
XV.ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
April 15, 2024
Agenda Item No. 2
ABSTRACT:
The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Melissa” by Alex
Gino
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold,
modify, or overturn the Director’s Decision of “Melissa” by Alex Gino.
DISCUSSION:
Library Policy NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy, allows patrons with concerns about a specific title in the
collection to submit a “Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources” form. Staff evaluate the
material, based on the Collection Development Policy and a recommendation is forwarded to the Director
who responds in writing to the patron (“Director’s Decision”). The Library received 11 “Patron’s Request for
Evaluation of Library Resources” forms for “Melissa” by Alex Gino, and the associated Director’s Decision
resulted in “Melissa” remaining in the children’s fiction book collection.
If a patron disagrees with the Director’s Decision, the patron may appeal to the Board of Library Trustees
(Board) for final resolution. The Library received three “Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library
Resources to the Board of Library Trustees” for the Director’s Decision of “Melissa” by Alex Gino.
The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Melissa” by Alex Gino and provide
final resolution of the matter.
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: Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees
ATTACHMENT B: Director’s Decision
ATTACHMENT C: Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources
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: Appeal Hearing of “Melissa” by Alex Gino
5
ATTACHMENT II
APPLICATION FOR APPEAL OF EVALUATION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES TO THE BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
The Library Services Director ("Director") will schedule the Patron's Appeal hearing. The Patron will present
their appeal to the Board of Library Trustees ("Board") and Library Staff will present its position to the Board.
Members of the public will also be provided with an opportunity to comment at the hearing. Thereafter, and
in keeping with the Library's Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2), the Board will provide final resolution of the matter.
Print Name Haley Jenkins
Resource on which you are appealing:
® Book 0 Magazine
0 Newspaper
1.Title Melissa (also published as George)
O Audiovisual Resource
0 Content of Library Program
0 Other ___________ _
2.Author/ProducerAlex Gino ---------------------------------
3.Date of Director's Decision November 14, 2023------'--------------------------
4.Briefly explain why you disagree with the Director's Decision (attach additional pages, if necessary):
Hello and thank you for this opportunity to appeal the Director's decision. To begin with, I would like to state that
this book is NOT age appropriate for the 12 and under children's section. I will quote a few pages that deal with topics and ideas (sex, autogynophilic fetish, medical advice, and hiding things from parents) that ages 12 and under can not properly process or comprehend. Pages 104-105 read "So, you're, like, transgender or something? .. .Did you know you can take hormones so that your body, you know, doesn't go all manlike?" ... " "Yeah, I know." George had been reading websites about transitioning since Scott had taught her how to clear the web browser history on Mom's computer." (Teaching 12 and under children they can get access to hormones online, take them to change their body, and then delete browser history). Page 141 ("Naw, I found them this weekend. I knew Mom was upset about something, and then I saw the bag sitting on her bed. Dude, I thought you had porn or something in there, so I took a peek. You know, just to find out what kind of stuff my little bro was into. So I figured you were gay. But I didn't think you were like that.· ... "So like, do you want to"-he made a gesture with two fingers like a pair of scissors-"go all the way?" • (Di�cuss�g porn and hand
L__ ______________ -l---(d;l��.on....1i.�� fa�\' Please fill out this appeal application in its entirety and return it to Central Library Administration Office,')
Attention: library Services Director (1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport Beach) or by email to
libraryadmin@newportbeachca.gov. You may also drop it off at one of the branches so it can be forwarded
to the Central Library. Thank you for taking the time to complete this application.
DateJanuary 23, 2024
RECEIVED: JAN 2 4 2024
Newport Beach Public Library
Newport Beach, California
�
�!el,')
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY ----�-��-----------------1 APPEAL DATEAPR 1 5 2024
ATTACHMENT A
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
ATTACHMENT B
19
ATTACHMENT C
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
bGtr\<,Yj +h �Y! -\ n opp(u p(\tA-tc ¥ch, lclrt � l1brcuy
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
April 15, 2024
Agenda Item No. 3
ABSTRACT:
The Board of Library Trustees (Board) will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Prince &
Knight” by Daniel Haack
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold,
modify, or overturn the Director’s Decision of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack.
DISCUSSION:
Library Policy NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy, allows patrons with concerns about a specific title in the
collection to submit a “Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources” form. Staff evaluate the
material, based on the Collection Development Policy and a recommendation is forwarded to the Director
who responds in writing to the patron (“Director’s Decision”). The Library received one “Patron’s Request for
Evaluation of Library Resources” forms for “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack, and the associated Director’s
Decision resulted in “Prince & Knight” remaining in the children’s picture book collection.
If a patron disagrees with the Director’s Decision, the patron may appeal to the Board of Library Trustees
(Board) for final resolution. The Library received one “Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library
Resources to the Board of Library Trustees” for the Director’s Decision of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack.
The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack
and provide final resolution of the matter.
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: Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees
ATTACHMENT B: Director’s Decision
ATTACHMENT C: Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources
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: Appeal Hearing of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack
45
46
47
48
49
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
Board of Library Trustees Balboa Branch 100 E. Balboa Boulevard, Newport Beach Meeting Minutes Monday, March 18, 2024 – 5:00 PM
I.CALL MEETING TO ORDER – 5:00 PM
Chair Paul Watkins called to order the regular meeting of the Newport Beach Board ofLibrary Trustees and thanked Mrs. Watkins for the cookies and candy provided.
II.ROLL CALL – Roll call by Cultural Arts Assistant Camille Escareal-Garcia.
Trustees Present: Chair Paul Watkins, Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, Secretary LaurenKramer, Trustee Antonella Castro, Trustee Chase Rief
Trustees Absent: None
Staff Present: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager
Camille Escareal-Garcia on behalf of Francine Jacome Annika Helmuth, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Andrew Kachaturian, Circulation and Technical Processing Coordinator
Evelyn Rogers, Balboa Branch Librarian
Staff Absent Erin Spivey, Adult Services Coordinator Francine Jacome, Administrative Support Specialist
III.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Secretary Lauren Kramer led the Pledge of Allegiance
IV.NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC - Waived
V.CONSENT CALENDARCamille Escareal-Garcia read the Consent Calendar notice.
A.Consent Calendar Items
Chair Watkins inquired if any Trustees had requests to pull an item from the Consent Calendar.
1.Minutes of the February 26, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Chair Watkins requested on handwritten page 9, Item 11, the words “it seemed to him that under the collections policy” be removed from Mr. Mosher’s comments.
2.Patron CommentsMonthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests
received from patrons.
50
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 2
Chair Watkins reported there were no requests for evaluations during the past month. Chair Watkins commended Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey for the patron
compliment of going above and beyond in helping her with technology; and how thoughtful and respectful Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot’s response to the patron who was concerned about library parking during the construction of the Lecture Hall; and noted
Patron Comment 4 regarding the library staff who was able to find an article in the Daily Pilot. 3. Library Activities Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics. 4. Expenditure Status Report Monthly expenditure status of the library’s operating expenses, services, salaries, and benefits by department. Chair Watkins reported they are two-thirds through the year’s budget and currently 2% under budget, it is a good place to be. Chair Watkins was excited to see attendance last month in all locations was 2,300 and thanked senior staff for all their work which contributed to such. 5. Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of Library Trustees.
Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments and there were none. Motion made by Secretary Lauren Kramer, seconded by Trustee Antonella Castro, and carried (5-0-0-0) to approve the Consent Calendar Items 1-5 with the minor changes to the February 26, 2024 draft minutes. AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: VI. CURRENT BUSINESS A. Items for Review 6. Balboa Branch Update
Balboa Branch Librarian Evelyn Rogers presents an overview of Balboa Branch’s activities and resources.
Branch Librarian Evelyn Rogers reported Balboa Branch is the founding branch of the Newport Beach Public Library and was founded in May 1929. It has been upgraded through the years and has a group of dedicated patrons who live in the area and on boats.
Activity at the Balboa branch is seasonal, with summer being the busiest time of the year. Daily operation has the branch open 54 hours per week Monday – Saturday. There are a few special collections in the branch, their most notable being the nautical collection. Under kids programming they present two storytimes per week, a new program added is
51
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 3
Toy Train Thursdays where kids can build freeform trains. Youth Services staff has recently started tracking Stay and Play, a program that provides stations for LEGO, stuffed animals, puzzles and more. The branch offers a story and tour to first graders of a nearby
elementary school. Balboa Branch is staffed by one full-time librarian, one part-time library assistant, two part-time library clerks and one library page. One of the library clerks is Mike Payne, who has worked for the library since 1989. Many of the patrons know him and he
helps to provide continuity as the library is replaced. The building is the oldest operating City building at 95 years old and is scheduled to be replaced along with the fire station located next door. In preparation for the replacement project staff has completed an
inventory of the entire branch’s circulating and reference collection which has been a great experience in providing a picture of what areas circulate more, or less, the condition of the materials and in which areas they should focus going forward. Balboa’s service population is 12,033, which includes Balboa Peninsula and Lido Isle, and that number becomes significantly higher during the summer months with visitors and tourists, many of whom obtain NBPL non-resident library cards. Branch Librarian Rogers provided statistics regarding general attendance, checkouts of popular material, and children attendance in different programs. Vice Chair Dorothy Larson commented that the new teen programming is a brilliant idea and inquired if the nautical collection will remain in the new building. Branch Librarian
Rogers confirmed that it would remain. Trustee Chase Rief thanked Branch Librarian Rogers for the update and noted he visited
the branch last week and noticed there were a lot of children, and it was a good positive environment. He really enjoyed the nautical collection.
Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments. Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) commented that Branch Librarian Roger’s report was great and noted that in the past it had been mentioned that the branch would function better if it was larger and the current proposal is to go back to a smaller size, and questioned if Branch Librarian Rogers believed it would function better smaller than it is now and if so, why. Branch Librarian Rogers answered that smaller would be fine as long as the space was configured well. Chair Watkins noted that, with the new floor plan, the branch loses about 500 square feet; however, there are more collections that are digital, and the floor plan is much better laid
out than previously. Rhonda Watkins, Newport Beach resident, inquired if the branch reaches out to the
parents for the elementary school tours, as she has noted as a teacher that children often don’t communicate events to their parents. Branch Librarian Rogers replied that the branch does marketing through email blasts, printed in The Navigator, and on social
media. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 7. 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.
52
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 4
Chair Watkins referenced Handwritten Packet Page 36 and explained that after they approved the changes in the Gift and Donor Policy at their last meeting, he found some
technical additions he felt should be made. They spelled out Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3). On Page 38, first full paragraph, they changed “instruction” to “education”.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments.
Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) commented that the technical changes made sense, but the policy could use more extensive review, in particular the section at the end about library gifts, it is confusing on how it relates to other parts. Specifically, books donated to the library rather than to Friends of the Library, and if there is direct opportunity to support the Literacy program. There is a donate button on the web page for the Literacy program and he’s not sure if that donation is direct through the Library or through that organization. Motion made by Secretary Kramer, seconded by Vice Chair Larson, and carried (5-0-0-0) to accept revisions to Library Policy NBPL 3 Gift and Donor Policy.
AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENCES: 8. 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), Collection Development Policy. Chair Watkins provided the ad hoc subcommittee update and reported that last month it was mentioned they would grandfather the first group of appeals for the Director’s Decision so that anyone from mid-October through March 15 could file an appeal without being constrained by the 14-day appeal period deadline. That resulted in an additional three appeals. Library Services Director Hartson reported by Friday March 15, at 4:00 PM they had received a total of 12 appeals on eight titles.
Chair Watkins read the eight titles that are being appealed:
• Melissa by Alex Gino
• Prince and Knight by Daniel Haack
• It Feels Good to be Yourself by Teresa Thorn
• Who Are You? by Brook Pessin-Whedbee
• Not My Idea by Anastasia Higginbotham
• It’s Perfectly Normal by Robie H. Harris
• What is White Privilege? by Leigh Ann Erickson
• Alice Austen Lived Here by Alex Gino Chair Watkins stated that the Board will begin hearing appeals at next month’s meeting, on Monday, April 15, 2024, at approximately 4:30 PM. They are going to consider the
53
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 5
appeals in order of receipt which means the first two appeals will be Melissa and Prince
and Knight. The Board will adhere to the appeals process. There is a closed session at 3:30 PM to consider the performance review of the Library Services Director. Immediately
following the closed session, the appellant(s) will present their appeal and all three appellants will be allotted three minutes. The public will be allowed to provide comment for two minutes each, after senior staff are allowed five minutes to present their findings.
The Board will then discuss and resolve the matter. The criteria for the appeal are set forth in Library Policy NPBL 2, Collection and Development Policy. Chair Watkins noted there are about 15 criteria and encouraged all parties to familiarize themselves with each of
them. He received another 10 communications regarding this topic, which brings the total communications close to 100 to date. The Board will make a determination after the meeting as to how many appeals should be heard at each meeting going forward based on how long those first two appeals take. Secretary Kramer requested the process be written for the record in an Agenda or Agenda Packet since allowing the public to speak for two minutes is not part of the policy and this item is not an action item which calls for a vote. Chair Watkins added that the Board can be flexible with the time periods if needed.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comments. Gia Gaffaney commented about the process and reminded everyone that the First
Amendment prevents discrimination, judging a book on whether it’s liked would be unconstitutional. One of the books was an important book to her family, those families who aren’t in agreement with the books or find them offensive are free to not check them out.
Unidentified Speaker stated she agreed with the first speaker 100%. Janice Horn commented regarding singling out a group of people based on preferences, banning these books will open the library up to having to ban other books based on personal preferences. Haley Jenkins questioned the upcoming proposal for a separate children’s collection development policy and if this group of books being appealed will be looked at differently should that pass; is it fair to judge these books under a different policy.
Chair Watkins inquired from staff if that has been a topic of the subcommittee and suggested they get a brief report.
Library Services Director Hartson explained that, while it is not an agendized item, it is part of the Collection Development, and the subcommittee is currently working on an addition to the existing NBPL 2 policy. Staff are looking at the April meeting to have that
item on the Agenda. Wendy Leece (Costa Mesa resident) commented about her appreciation of the Board in helping her understand how to move forward and referenced the 1953 policy adopted by the American Library Association which included the right to read anything. It is a lively robust debate and ultimately Newport Beach needs a local policy that reflects Newport-Mesa values.
54
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 6
Cindy Park commented that her children grew up with all these books available to them and are amazing kids who’ve grown up with open minds.
Secretary Kramer reminded the public that the Public Comment period is not for a back-and-forth discussion, it is intended for individual comments only.
Erin Giglia (Newport Beach resident) commented regarding her concern for the freedom of children who should have access to all books that could be available to them. Kids need
to read, it’s the parent’s responsibility to monitor what children have access to and thanked the Library staff for their hard work in their important jobs. Joni Nichols (Newport Beach resident) commented that the Balboa branch was a gateway to her family returning to the United States and suggested all persons making the appeals read the book they have appealed. Unidentified Speaker commented he appreciates the discussion and hopes that it moves in a positive direction during the appeal process and stated age-appropriate means available at the right level, and he keeps hearing the word banned, which is not the case with any of these books. Parents should be in control of what their children read, which is
not the case at the Mariners branch. Unidentified Speaker commented that information in the library is no different than
information that can be found on the internet and stated it’s senseless to have to go through this process when all of these books are available and easily accessible online.
Unidentified Speaker commented that there are people choosing what is appropriate in libraries who aren’t allowed to be in the local libraries because they aren’t local members. Books should be allowed to be challenged without hostility by people who are patrons of the local libraries. Unidentified Speaker commented that she hopes the Board will read the two upcoming books in their entirety. Gia Gaffaney commented that viewpoint would be considered discrimination under the Constitution.
Unidentified Speaker suggested if books are found to be appropriate during the appeal, the Library implement a program in which parents can fill out a form online for specific books to be made unavailable for their child to check out from their local branch.
Chair Watkins received and filed the item. 9. Lecture Hall Update Report on activities related to the Library Lecture Hall project. Library Services Director Hartson reported the Lecture Hall is fully under construction, and the pedestrian bridge demolition began today. Staff encouraged patrons to park in the structure if spots are not available on the ground level. It’s exciting to see the transformation taking place.
55
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 7
Trustee Chase Rief inquired if there was a timeframe when the Friends Room will be limited to fifty occupants. Library Services Director Hartson answered they are looking at
next calendar year for that. Currently, they are provided with scheduling for four weeks out at a time.
Chair Watkins opened the item for Public Comment. Chair Watkins received and filed the report.
10. Balboa Branch Update Report on the activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project. Chair Watkins opened the item and reported he attended the Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission (PB&R) meeting on March 5, there were between 12-15 people in favor of preserving the remaining Eucalyptus trees. Parks and Trees Superintendent Kevin Pekar was masterful in achieving a middle ground between the tree supporters and the reality that this is a shallow rooted diseased tree that is likely to hurt someone in the future. Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth provided a wonderful presentation regarding the tot lot.
Library Services Director Hartson reported that at last week’s City Council meeting, Director Web presented an early look at the CIP and mentioned during the presentation
that the elevation design project will potentially move forward at a tentative date in early May.
Chair Watkins requested confirmation of that date when it’s available so the Board of Library Trustees can attend that future meeting. Vice Chair Dorothy Larson expressed gratitude that this isn’t a library issue, rather a tree decision that is beyond the scope of this Board. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comment. Jim Mosher (Newport Beach Resident) stated he also attended the Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission (PB&R) meeting and is confused about the timeline that was presented at that meeting. The narrative was that the Board had seen and approved the
concept, the PB&R was approving the item to forward to the City Council who would place the item out for bid. His concern is the Board’s opinion and public input for the trees and the floorplan of the new library will not be heard or considered.
Chair Watkins explained that the Board was given the option to vote on Plans I or Plans II prior to being heard by the PB&R.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 11. Library Services Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons, and staff.
56
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 8
Library Services Director Hartson reported that she attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the Lecture Hall as well as City Council’s planning session in February. There was an element of discussion on the Cultural Art’s side at the Council Planning Session,
she presented a PowerPoint to the Council for the purpose of getting direction for the programming for arts in the new Fiscal Year. National Library Week is upcoming, and there are a number of activities happening the week of April 7. City dignitaries and guest
readers will be participating in Storytime. Proclamation will be Tuesday, April 9, in Council Chambers during the City Council meeting. Next month’s Board of Library Trustees meeting will be held in Council Chambers and will begin with a Closed Session at 3:30
PM. Trustee Rief stated it seemed it was taking considerable time to fix the elevator. Library Services Director Hartson replied they are working on securing a contract, as it is the City’s requirement that a contract first be in place. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comment. Hearing none, Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Monthly Reports 12. Library Foundation Liaison Reports A. Library Foundation Board Report on the most recently attended meeting.
Chair Watkins stated the two-to-three-page report that Jerry Kappel (Foundation CEO) submitted is really outstanding. It also provides great information about Library Live and the Witte Lectures.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Library Live Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting. Vice Chair Larson stated she agreed that Jerry provided a great update. They are beginning work on next year’s speakers and the program is going strong. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. C. Witte Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 13. Friends of the Library Liaison Report
Trustee update on the Friends of the Library Board meeting. Trustee Rief commented there was nothing new to report.
57
Board of Library Trustees Meeting March 18, 2024
Page 9
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 14. Pals4pal Liaison Report
Trustee update of the Pals4pal Board meeting. Trustee Castro commented there was nothing new to report.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. VII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) commented he spent the weekend overviewing the comments and something was mentioned regarding the Chicago 2024 Strategy which was a plan in which they set goals for their library. It was quite inspirational and an excellent way of laying out a plan for future improvements. The Newport Beach Public Library is great, but there is always room for improvement, he recommended the Trustees take a look at that plan and consider one as well. 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 – 6:05 p.m.
The next meeting will be held in City Council Chambers on April 15, 2024, beginning with a Closed Session at 3:30 p.m.
58
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS MARCH 2024
Comment #Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
1
03/02/2024
Email
Erin Spivey
Adult Services Coordinator
03/05/2024
2
03/04/2024
Email
Erin Spivey
Adult Services Coordinator
03/04/2024
3
03/06/2024
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
03/06/2024
4
03/06/2024
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
03/06/2024
I don’t know if this is the right email to contact, however I have tried contacting the
library through your website and haven’t gotten any reply. I really appreciate your
work for our community and I borrow books often. I was wondering if you carry the hardcover books of the Crave series by Tracy Wolff? If not, I would love to see them on the shelves! Please let me know when you purchase them! Thanks for everything you do.
Thank you for your inquiry. I’m sorry to hear that you hadn’t received a reply through
other communication attempts. After looking into the Crave series by Tracy Wolff, it
appears that we do have the entirety of that series available via eBook and eAudiobook. To see all of Tracy Wolff’s titles available at Newport Beach Public Library click here ... I will pass on your request for physical copies to our librarian in charge of fiction selection. He will follow up with you regarding their purchase. Please let me know if you have any additional questions or suggestions. Thank you
again.
I have quite a few books with some educational values that others may want to read. I do not want to throw them away.Thank you for thinking of us! Yes, the Friends of the Library are accepting book donations on the Library’s behalf. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from
10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., but you may drop donations off at any location during normal
business hours. If you would like to make an appointment for a larger donation drop
off, please call the Friends at 949-759-9667. You can find more information about donations on their website here ... Thank you.
A CM resident, age 18, memorized 1400 vocabs/day, half of 8x memory champion's
world record (3300/day). Request: 3 hour access to be inside of a Newport Beach government facility. I just need wifi for laptop. Goal: Break ... memory world record in human benchmark. Tiny win would greatly boost confidence to go forth to achieve bigger goals. Would you be so kind to allow me the opportunity to perform at my absolute best? Story: Strong radar weapon infrasound disruption disabled my
intellectual performance, caused immense intellectual difficulty. I couldn't perform
2019-2020 in Navy enlistment, followed by 4 years of debilitating (neck & verbal)
sleep deprived and life threatening torment. This tiny win of a world record would effectively clarify everything, so I can live safely and productively again. That'd help out our family greatly. Mom had it rough supporting the 3 of us through covid in this economy. Next goal would be MIT challenge and to beat the best military memory
record by Navy Seal ... USA memory champion. Much appreciated. Thank you so
much!
Thank you for your email. It sounds like you have set a great goal for yourself! You
are welcome to be at any Newport Beach Public Library location during any of our open hours. You can see our locations and hours here ... All of our locations are equipped with Wi-Fi. You do not need a library card to access the Wi-Fi, you simply need to agree to terms of use. If you need any further information about our libraries or if we can help you achieve your goals, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Good
luck in your reaching your goals!
I work at the OC Fair, and our administration has been doing a spring cleaning. I have dozens of 3-ring notebooks in sizes from 0.5" to what looks like 3" or 4" that I'm trying to find a good home for (so they don't end up in the trash). Most are in fairly good condition, but some have marks where stickers were. Is there any
chance you might want them or know a school/organization that could use them?
Thank you for thinking of us! We appreciate your offer, but unfortunately we do not have a need for 3-ring binders. I am unaware of any school or organization that would have a use for them. Thank you.59
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS MARCH 2024
Comment #Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
5
03/11/2024
Comment Card
Andy Kachaturian
Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator
03/14/2024
6
03/13/2024
Phone
Allison Sarnowski
Administrative Support Technician
03/13/2024
7
03/13/2024
Comment Card
Andy Kachaturian
Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator
03/14/2024
A patron called to inquire about working at the Library, and provided an email address.Thank you for your interest in working for the Library. All of our job openings are posted on the City’s website here ... You may also fill out a job interest card on the City’s website to be notified by email whenever a new job at the Library is posted ... I hope this helps. Please feel free to call the City’s Human Resources department at 949-644-3300 if you have additional questions. Thanks again!
Handicapped spaces are not being observed in front parking lot. This is a LAW that
needs to be addressed. PLEASE address this issue especially now when there is
limited parking.
We are sorry for the inconvenience. City Code Enforcement does monitor our lot.
We will relay the concern to them. Please contact us if you want to provide any
additional information.
Service equipment at facility, such as elevator, three months in and out of service.
Toilet not clean! Restaurant--why close? In miserable condition. Add new, large elevator and toilet. So bad condition!? I pay … p. tax and city provides this kind of service. Will report to the state level if not any response. Please.
Thank you for taking the time to fill out a comment card regarding the facilities at the
Newport Beach Central Library. We do understand the frustration with the public elevator, which has been out of service since late January. The Library and City have been working very hard to put a contract in place to finalize repairs and this has been an exhaustive project due to the cost, insurance, and bonding. We are finalizing this now and hope to move forward with this very soon. We have made a
staff elevator available to the public which I hope you have been made aware as an
alternative option in the meantime. It was not clear to me which of our restrooms
that you were commenting on, but we do have a day porter in additional to nightly janitorial service which usually does keep our upstairs and downstairs restrooms tidy, but if you ever do encounter something that needs attention, please do not hesitate to know someone on staff know. We can arrange service during the day
porter’s shift if it occurs midday. I am sorry that you found it in poor condition and
the feedback does help us communicate needs to our janitorial service. The upstairs
Café did not renew their lease this last year and the City is working to find a new tenant, which will likely renovate the space to their needs. The Community Development Department is handling this project. If you would prefer to speak with them directly, their phone number is 949-644-3200 and are located at City Hall in
Bay B, level one. Again, we apologize for the frustrations, but we do appreciate the
feedback and appreciate your patience and continued use of the library. I noticed
that you included your address in Newport Coast and just also wanted to make sure that you were aware that if you happen to place holds on items, you can also have them held for you at the Newport Coast Community Center, or any of the locations listed here in case that helps. Thank you.60
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS MARCH 2024
Comment #Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
8
03/17/2024
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
03/18/2024
9
03/21/2024
Comment Card
10
03/28/2024
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
03/28/2024
11
03/28/2024
Email
Andy Kachaturian
Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator
03/28/2024
12
03/30/2024
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
04/01/2024
I am a college student attending Orange Coast College and have recently just moved here with my boyfriend. We both attend OCC, share one car together, and
are both looking for a summer job, or possibly to continue past the summer. I didn't
want to have us both apply and then ask if its okay for us to work together, but I was
hoping to ask before I applied. We do date but it would not affect how we would
work. It would just be a easy way for us to go to the same place to work because we have one car. I would love to be able to send in an application. My email is ... if you need to contact me. Thank you.
Thank you for your interest in working for the library! You and your boyfriend are certainly welcome to apply. Please be aware that due to the fact that we have four
locations and are open seven days a week, the likelihood of you both having the
same shifts at the same location would be very rare. We need to schedule based on
our needs at any given time, which can change. You can apply for jobs on the City’s
website here ... Thank you.
Do you accept VHS donations? I have some very good VHS series that I would like to donate (e.g., jazz series).Thank you for thinking of us! Unfortunately, we do not accept VHS donations. The main branch of the Anaheim Public Library will accept VHS ... Or you might be able to donate to the Goodwill or the Salvation Army. The OC Recycle Guide has some suggestions on who will accept VHS donations ... I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you.
I recently got an email saying I had not returned the book titled "At the Existentialist
Cafe" by Bakewell, Sarah, due:04/18/2024. When I attempted to check this book out a few weeks ago, it said on the screen that there was an error with scanning it, so I put it back on the shelf and did not take this book home. It seems like it actually did scan, however I do not have this book. I would appreciate some help in sorting this
out and sorry for any inconvenience. Thank you.
Thank you for letting us know. I located the book on the shelf and removed it from
your account. I do not see anything else currently checked out to you. I apologize that we did not notice that you were having an issue at the self-checkout machine. Please do feel welcome to bring items to any desk for assistance as we want to ensure you can enjoy the items ... If you would like me to place this title on hold for
you, please let me know. It is currently available. Have a great day.
I'd like to read an article published by JSTOR. How can I access JSTOR? Thanks.The Newport Beach Public Library does not subscribe to JSTOR, however, as an
individual researcher you do have some options through JSTOR. Depending on the article, you might be able to access it for free. Here is a link to their individual subscription packages ... You could also request an Interlibrary Loan for the article through our Interlibrary Loan service. There is a non-refundable $5 fee for each request, and you can find out more information here ... I hope that helps. Please let
me know if you have any other questions. Thank you.
The help service by Mary-Kay was absolutely amazing. She was beyond helpful and patient with my printing service.The patron did not provide contact information, so we were unable to respond. The feedback was shared with the employee and her supervisor.61
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
April 15, 2024
Agenda Item No. 6
MELISSA HARTSON, LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Lecture Hall Construction
In March, Lecture Hall Contractor AMG & Associates began the surface demolition of the parking lot. The
courtyard wall along the west side of the building and portions of the courtyard hardscape were also
removed. AMG & Associates performed the most impactful demolition, which was cutting away the
courtyard wall from the building, prior to the Library opening. I attend regular construction meetings with
the City, architects, and contractors where I receive project updates and short- and long-term timelines.
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 March Library Activities – April 15, 2024 Meeting
62
Report of March Library Activities
April 15, 2024
Page 2
WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES
•Library Live: Tess Gunty
Thursday, April 18, 7 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Sunday Musicale: Folias Duo
Sunday, May 12, 3 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Medicine in Our Backyard: Antibiotics, Myth v. Reality
Emily Blodget, MD
Monday, April 22, 7 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Spotlight on Science: Digital Tools for Projecting
Coastal Erosion and Flooding
Wednesday, May 15, 7 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Meet the Author: Douglas Brunt
“The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel”
Sunday, April 28, 2:30 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Monday, May 20, 5 p.m.
Council Chambers, Civic Center
•Friends of the Library Cookbook Sale
Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
REBECCA LIGHTFOOT, LIBRARY SERVICES MANAGER
Literacy
Project Adult Literacy (PAL) hosted a spring enrollment week where PAL provided training to 18 new tutors
and 22 new learners.
Training
This month’s live training featured guest speaker Ben Greene. Ben Greene is a transgender advocate and
educator who has spoken internationally on topics surrounding transgender inclusion. He is passionate
about educating others from a place of compassion—no matter where they’re starting from, and his
discussion focused on how library staff can make patrons of all types feel welcome and included.
Programming
In March, the Library hosted the final Storytellers Wri�ng Workshop of the season. It was, as always, well-
received and a pleasure to see the community connec�on this special workshop creates.
The third and final Genealogy Uncovered workshop of the season also took place in March. This smaller,
focused, interac�ve format has been very effec�ve for our community’s genealogy enthusiasts. They
share ideas, discoveries, and are led by genealogical expert Arlene O’Donnell of the South OC Genealogical
Society.
March’s Sunday Musicale featured Soprano Rigby Jones and Co. She brought along some fellow vocalists
and a pianist to accompany her. They presented a fun St. Patrick’s Day program and even a sing-along
featuring some Irish classics.
63
Report of March Library Activities
April 15, 2024
Page 3
App
The new Library app went through tes�ng with select members of Library and IT staff for both the Android
and Apple versions. The app has been released to the respec�ve online stores for approval. Once that
process is completed, it will be available to the public for download.
ANNIKA HELMUTH, BRANCH AND YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR
Branch Activities
At the Corona del Mar Branch (CdM), patrons enjoyed a special CdM-themed I Spy activity. Using pipe
cleaner magnifying glasses, participants matched pictures on their game sheet with hidden-in-plain-sight
items throughout the Library. It was a unique opportunity for patrons to gain familiarity with the Branch.
In addition to hosting fun and educational programs like Library I Spy, CdM staff proctored 22 tests
throughout the month.
Balboa Branch (Balboa) hosted a Kung Fu Panda Party on March 13, that included a Po puppet craft, lucky
envelope craft, pin-the-dumpling-on-Po game, and character puzzles. Recently promoted part-time
Library Clerk Priscilla Johnson began training, with her regular schedule expected to begin in early April.
And at Mariners Branch (Mariners), a St. Patrick’s Day-themed craft program drew a crowd, and the
winter-themed interactive wall wrapped up with 114 children contributing decorated snowflakes.
Youth Services
The monthly BARK Read-to-a-Dog program offered at the Central Library was especially popular this
month with 57 participants. This program is a great way for children to increase their reading skills with a
non-judgmental reading companion in a calm environment. The Central Library also had LEGO fun on the
first and third Saturdays with participants who enjoyed building everything from castles to umbrellas, a
dinosaur and even a four-and-a-half-foot long train! Kids and their grown-ups enjoyed spinning the LEGO
Challenge Wheel for new ideas and proved their skills to be worthy.
Special Programs
On Saturday, March 9, children’s author, Rachel Ignotofsky visited the Central Library to share her new
book, What’s Inside a Bird’s Nest. Fifty-six engaged and enthusiastic participants enjoyed a reading and
signing of Ignotofsky’s new book. Participants also enjoyed the coloring page and paper bird puppet
featuring the artwork of the book.
Class Visits
On Tuesday, March 5, a group of 18 kindergarten girl scouts and their moms visited the Central Library for
a tour. Staff discussed Library rules and read a story that features a scout and a bear learning about
friendship, kindness, and taking care of the planet. The troop then took a tour around the children's room,
learned how to use the catalog computer to find books, and received a special behind-the-scenes look at
the conveyer belt and the boxes where the books land when they return from the outside.
Outreach
On Sunday, March 17, Library staff attended the 40th Annual Spirit Run at Newport Center. The event was
energetic as student participants watched the sunrise, ran their hearts out, and enjoyed a lively Expo with
music, a rock-climbing wall, bubble rollers, and more. Library staff interacted with approximately 320
community members, answering questions about the Library, promoting library services, and handing out
64
Report of March Library Activities
April 15, 2024
Page 4
prizes. The response from those visiting the booth was clear—many love and use the Library every day!
We heard lots of “my kids live at the Library; we love it so much!” It was a great morning.
On Saturday, March 23, Library staff hosted a table at the Mayor's Egg Race, where they interacted with
over 300 children and adults. The Library table was set up in a prime spot next to the Easter Bunny, and
despite the cold and rainy weather, plenty of families still came out for the 2-hour event. At the Library
table, kids could spin the prize wheel to win a small toy and families could sign up for library cards and
take brochures for upcoming programming.
Training
On Wednesday, March 27, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth attended Team
Dynamics presented by Richard Marks from Government Training Agency. Designed specifically for City of
Newport Beach employees, this class offered insights into the intricacies of building interpersonal skills,
teamwork skills, and communication skills to better realize the potential of collaboration and elevate team
performance.
ANDREW KACHATURIAN, CIRCULATION AND TECHNICAL PROCESSING COORDINATOR
Staffing
Youry Hardison started in March as a new part-time Library Clerk at the Central Library, which leaves one
vacant Library Clerk position. LaToya McGee also started in March as a Library Page, leaving four vacancies
with one candidate in background.
Facilities
The last insurance and bond hurtles are being resolved between the City and TK Elevator and we are
hopeful that repair work on the public elevator can be scheduled in the upcoming month.
Two standing desks that the NBPL Foundation graciously funded have arrived at the Central Library. They
are located in a highly utilized area near the Reference Desk on the second floor. They are expected to be
very popular.
ERIN SPIVEY, ADULT SERVICES COORDINATOR
Outreach
On March 18, Newport Beach Public Library Staff was invited to the Corona del Mar Middle & High School
to teach the middle school English classes about the Library’s databases. Branch Librarian Nadia
Dallstream and Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth led the outreach. Five groups of
classes attended the presentations, consisting of approximately 450 students and 25 adults. Students and
staff were given library card applications prior to the program, and 21 applications were received to
process.
Annika Helmuth and Library Assistant Danielle Yang followed up with a second visit on Monday, March
25, to visit an additional three classes.
Many of the students already had library cards and were familiar with Newport Beach Public Library. This
was an opportunity to delve into more detailed introduction to how the Library can support their
academic achievement.
65
Report of March Library Activities
April 15, 2024
Page 5
Teens
The March 13 Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) had a LEGO-themed meeting, with 10 teens in
attendance. The teens worked in pairs to build LEGO Leprechaun Traps in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. The
winner was chosen based on creativity. Teens also discussed their current reading and selected titles for
the fantasy genre book display, which will last for two months as there will be no April YAAC meeting.
Staff sought teen input regarding the upcoming Teen Bookmark Design Contest for the 30th Anniversary
celebration this summer. The teens were able to make many valuable suggestions, particularly around
prizes.
Local History
The Library received some local history donations, which Reference Librarian Laurie Sanders was able to
evaluate and add to the collection.
Collection Development
The Library has been receiving a surge of patron requests since the start of the new year. In that time
(January through March 2024), the adult services department ordered 176 additional titles from patron
requests alone.
Training
Niche Academy’s Ryan Dowd trainings continue to be well used by staff. Laurie Sanders, and Library
Assistants Ariel Shrader and Janine McFarlin, all attended “Substance Abuse 101: An overview of effects
and risks of common.”
Library Assistant Danielle Yang attended two webinars titled, "Equity Based Teen Services Requires
Authenticity" and "Building Equity Based Summers" led by the arts and culture program coordinator from
LA County Library.
Laurie Sanders also completed an employee focused multi-part training through CALL, California Libraries
Learn.
Community Engagement
The entire staff work diligently to support our patrons as much as possible. The month of March saw
Library Assistants Greg Johnson and Chris Hennigan connect several patrons with homelessness resources
and BeWell.
66
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 1035 11827
Alexander Street **********82 37 119 559 797
Ancestry 976 937 881 451 789 91 183 296 290 4894
AskART 55 22 71 17 18 9 17 16 12 237
Brainfuse JobNow/VetNow 82 48 43 21 37 20 21 25 94 391
Britannica School Edition 23 4 126 613 50 357 49 23 103 1348
Exploring Race in Society 2 0 14 7 2 0 10 10 10 55
Gale Archives Unbound 1977 7446 1971 2410 7450 2190 3506 1318 1533 29801
Gale Directory Library 17 2 0 77 9 17 5 52 33 212
Gale in Context: Biography 9 7 21 64 18 4 23 7 43 196
Gale in Context: Elementary 10 23 10 30 12 5 2 11 10 113
Gale in Context: Environmental ***12 21 1 8 6 2 50
Gale in Context: Opposing View 8 1 33 54 1078 76 129 68 27 1474
Gale Interactive: Science ***1 0 0 2 0 1 4
Gale Literature Resource Center 8 2 14 53 15 8 42 1306 1330 2778
Gale Virtual Reference Library 46 28 12 33 209 21 33 34 65 481
HeritageQuest 224 241 140 92 233 95 118 50 284 1477
Legal Information Ref Center 72 65 25 28 33 23 75 118 80 519
National Geographic 24 14 62 38 28 21 32 26 46 291
National Geographic Kids 23 13 45 53 21 3 17 20 28 223
NewsBank 1292 1211 1634 1190 1092 1084 1992 1250 1048 11793
NoveList Plus 48 84 37 423 225 112 65 150 63 1207
NoveList K-8 Plus 22 44 22 72 36 0 8 24 14 242
ProQuest 2587 2605 2748 3262 3259 3073 5157 3937 3188 29816
Proquest eLibrary 2 4 1 7 1 0 18 5 10 48
Reference Solutions Business 1883 614 389 481 337 159 202 445 470 4980
Reference Solutions Residential 91 32 34 866 19 156 14 17 30 1259
SIRS Discoverer 0 3 15 260 454 0 83 99 1620 2534
SIRS Issues Researcher 192 3 4 675 2331 1692 5034 6284 7920 24135
World Book Online 4 8 99 225 49 6 11 261 22 685
Tracked by #page views
Artist Works 4 3 3 1 6 5 3 4 8 37
Consumer Reports 3496 2508 2216 2099 3030 2099 3005 1826 1774 22053
CultureGrams 26 45 22 224 30 34 32 22 11 446
Morningstar 5899 5543 3825 4267 4883 4093 3998 3894 3115 39517
RealQuest 11 0 403 5 2 0 0 43 130 594
Tumblebooks 12 24 16 89 19 13 5 27 10 215
Value Line 13295 11823 13609 15082 16193 12548 9703 11421 13572 103674
Tracked by courses
LinkedIn Learning 349 190 200 235 162 151 264 185 191 1927
Tracked by books logged
Beanstack 10374 4111 3584 3762 3903 1765 3535 2548 2720 36302
Tracked by Hours Used
ABC Mouse 27.68 30.40 18.77 20.53 25.83 43.01 56.18 52.95 19.83 295.18
Beanstack 4603 199 103 153 142 119 129 108.5 161 5718
Rosetta Stone 16.12 47.18 23.15 37.60 24.80 17.23 25.51 21.68 32.80 246.07
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 1600 1527
Newspapers--Current 656 1022 919 941 580 805 1578 1518 1077 1011
Newspapers--Historical 1966 3410 1962 2116 2144 2078 1914 1523 1922 2115
Magazines 19 22 12 36 49 25 38 23 18 27
67
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 21802 21493 193435
New Users 22806 22634 19381 19876 18796 18098 21385 20253 19617 20316 182846
Sessions 44852 41809 38321 39420 36151 35900 43569 41485 40363 40208 361870
Pageviews 97997 72390 67543 67569 62349 57142 74055 71726 70921 71299 641692
Sessions Per User 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 --
Pages Per Session 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 --
Avg. Session Dur. (min)3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 --
Bounce Rate (%)54 58 56 58 57 60 58 58 57 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 240 157 342 257 478 206 503 594 165 327 2941
CdM 220 242 144 153 108 124 175 163 170 167 1499
Mariners 1710 1500 1660 1900 1830 2810 2380 2070 1890 1972 17750
Central 11410 12170 12450 11900 10690 10040 11170 10640 11450 11324 101920
Total 13580 14069 14596 14210 13106 13180 14228 13467 13675 13790 124110
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 518 445 401 377 331 333 284 293 303 365 3285
CdM 470 449 392 409 330 322 321 329 375 377 3397
Mariners 1575 1578 1679 1789 1541 1279 1267 1209 1388 1478 13305
Central 8775 9524 9451 9593 8811 8795 8136 7983 8929 8889 79997
Total 11338 11996 11923 12168 11013 10729 10008 9814 10995 11109 99984
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 26 35 311
CdM 30 30 26 25 21 21 22 23 25 25 223
Mariners 124 125 139 151 128 109 112 112 122 125 1122
Central 654 661 651 684 604 583 563 608 599 623 5607
Total 852 857 856 897 786 744 728 771 772 807 7263
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 558 982 8837
CdM 480 552 376 382 336 394 558 509 463 450 4049
Mariners 1110 999 1010 1090 1210 2250 1920 1750 1390 1414 12729
Central 1330 1310 1350 1270 1240 1170 1410 1360 1310 1306 11750
Total 3394 3222 3610 3440 4226 4446 5658 5649 3721 4152 37365
68
MAR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 2,417 20,882 23,298
CdM 4,027 33,365 27,888
MARINERS 22,293 191,298 185,491
CENTRAL 50,498 471,832 503,842
eBooks 8,300 70,800 64,769
eMagazines 6,322 42,718 18,351
eAudiobooks 6,974 58,203 53,795
Streaming Films 3,523 21,789 6,526
TOTAL 104,354 910,887 883,960
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
MAR 24 104,354
TOTAL 1,199,878
12 Month Comparison
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - MARCH 2024
CIRCULATION
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
eBooks
eMagazines
eAudiobooks
Streaming Films
85,000
90,000
95,000
100,000
105,000
110,000
APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 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
69
MAR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 396 3,415 2,924
CdM 607 5,104 5,838
MARINERS 2,193 18,105 16,334
CENTRAL 6,861 58,295 54,903
TOTAL 10,057 84,919 79,999
12 Month Comparison
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
MAR 24 10,057
TOTAL 113,162
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - MARCH 2024
REFERENCE
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
6,500
7,500
8,500
9,500
10,500
11,500
APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 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
70
MAR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 2,100 18,481 19,029
CdM 3,218 27,226 23,290
MARINERS 13,097 118,749 105,454
CENTRAL 36,515 325,260 310,367
TOTAL 54,930 489,716 458,140
12 Month Comparison
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
MAR 24 54,930
TOTAL 654,871
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - MARCH 2024
PATRONS SERVED
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 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
71
MAR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 300 1,977 1,385
CdM 1,246 8,829 6,038
MARINERS 1,710 11,462 7,260
CENTRAL 7,241 54,381 41,826
TOTAL 10,497 76,649 56,509
12 Month Comparison
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
MAR 24 10,497
TOTAL 98,433
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - MARCH 2024
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 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
72
LIBRARY EXPENDITURES FY 2023-24
(April 3, 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 2,229,513 247,538 926,824
SALARY PART-TIME 1,279,860 1,324,256 644,318 71,969 679,938
BENEFITS 2,247,901 2,371,705 1,678,298 96,142 693,407
SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL 6,684,098 6,852,299 4,552,129 415,649 2,300,170
II MAINT & OPERATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*207,488 207,488 147,574 17,690 59,914
UTILITIES 372,933 372,933 274,939 24,188 97,995
PROGRAMMING 2,000 5,800 2,784 116 3,016
SUPPLIES**82,800 84,186 62,509 10,651 21,677
LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 676,603 591,775 926 84,829
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 250,275 260,864 154,910 7,049 105,954
TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 5,985 3,100 4,696
GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***24,202 25,920 18,934 2,992 6,987
PERIPHERALS & SOFTWARE 5,000 3,960 28 0 3,932
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,693,396 1,693,396 1,270,047 0 423,349
OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 379 0 1,621
MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,320,516 3,343,833 2,529,863 66,712 813,970
LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL 10,004,613 10,196,132 7,081,993 482,361 3,114,139
*PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE
**INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES
***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE
73
FY 2023-24
(April 3, 2024)
DATE FUNDED AMOUNT PURPOSE
AMT EXPENDED
YTD NOTES
JULY 2023 WISH LIST
150,000 NEW MATERIALS 0 SPENDING TO BEGIN FOURTH QUARTER
50,000 PROGRAMMING 0 SPENDING TO BEGIN FOURTH QUARTER
TOTAL 200,000 0
DATE FUNDED AMOUNT PURPOSE
AMT EXPENDED
YTD NOTES
SEPT 2023 WISH LIST
16,980 LIBRARY MATERIALS 2,380 IN PROGRESS
23,000 FURNITURE 21,546 IN PROGRESS
JAN 2024 5,000 PROGRAMMING 0 SPENDING TO BEGIN FOURTH QUARTER
TOTAL 44,980 23,926
FRIENDS
FOUNDATION
74
Previous
Agenda Date AGENDA ITEM Scheduled
Agenda Date
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
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
Mar 18, 2024 Mar 17, 2025
LAST
REVIEWED POLICY REVIEW
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
Mar 18, 2024 NBPL 3 Library Gift and Donor Policy Mar 16, 2026
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)
Literacy Program Update
Information Technology Update
Adult and Reference Services Update
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES MONITORING LIST
Lecture Hall Update
Balboa Branch Replacement Update
Policy Review (See List Below)
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
75
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
April 15, 2024
Agenda Item No. 9
Collection Objectives
It is the intent of the Board of Library Trustees (“Board”) that the Newport Beach Public Library provides a
contemporary, relevant collection of resources in order to meet the informational, educational and
recreational needs of the entire community. The Library strives to meet these needs within the limitations
of space, budget and availability of items.
Selection is based on merit of the work; value of the work within the collection; and the needs and interests
of the community. Consideration is given to specific types of material; to materials for specific age groups;
to materials for special interests of patrons; and to differing formats of materials. These selection criteria
will apply equally to materials purchased and to those accepted as gifts.
Abstract:
As stated under Objectives of Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy, the Newport Beach
Public Library (NBPL) strives to provide a well-rounded collection in a variety of genres and formats.
Library staff rely on a variety of tools to achieve this goal, including but not limited to, graduate education
and training, community requests, professional review journals, the American Library Association’s Library
Bill of Rights, Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy, and more.
Selection Process:
Prior to beginning the selection process, staff are only put into positions to become selectors for NBPL
when they have either completed a graduate education – culminating in a Master of Library Science – or
have years of service in the Library and a demonstrated area of expertise, or both. While in graduate
school, librarians are trained on the philosophic, legal, and practical aspects of collection development.
Library assistants who support the selection process rely on their years of working with the Newport Beach
community, as well as their individual backgrounds and education, to make recommendations for
purchase to their upline supervisors. Additionally, librarians and library assistants are guided by ethical
principles as laid out in such texts as the Library Bill of Rights.
When beginning the selection process, selectors review a variety of data points, first among these is
community use. Staff rely on patron recommendations as well as statistics of what has been popular with
this community in the past. Patron recommendations are made continually throughout the year, and staff
order these titles, when possible, on a weekly basis. Selectors also look to national trends on which topics,
formats, authors, etc. are receiving popular attention, and attempt to match those trends to the
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Erin Spivey, Adult Services Coordinator
TITLE: Library Materials Selection
76
Library Materials Selection
April 15, 2024
Page 2
anticipated community use at NBPL. Pop culture reading lists such as “Reese’s Book Club” or “Read with
Jenna”, as well as the New York Times Bestseller’s list, are relied upon by selectors to gauge the popularity
of individual titles among patrons.
In selecting items that are not on these popular lists, staff use data from both inside and outside the
Library. During their graduate education, librarians are instructed on how to use geographical and
demographic information in aiding their selection. Librarians consider the ages, education, and socio-
economic backgrounds of patrons when choosing new items for the collection. For example, Newport
Beach does not have a predominate foreign language spoken by residents, making it nearly impossible to
choose a single foreign language for collection that would meet the needs of Library users. Whereas
libraries located in Westminster or Garden Grove would contain a significant Vietnamese collection due
to their proximity to Little Saigon. From within the Library, selectors look to data on what will be best used
by patrons. Certain topics, such as nautical fiction, have historically done well in Newport Beach, while
other topics, such as agriculture equipment maintenance, do not do well here.
Staff also review empirical data through Collection HQ to help guide their selections. Collection HQ can
assist selectors with suggestions for purchase based on lending patterns and comparing the NBPL
collection to similarly sized libraries. Selectors can utilize Collection HQ to review which areas of the
collection are “understocked”, indicating that – based on the data – these areas would do well with
additional items.
Lastly, selectors also rely on professional reviews, publicity and advertising, and literary awards, among
other peer reviewed options, to choose items to add to the collection. Awards considered range from the
Caldecott Award in best children’s illustrations, to the Pulitzer Prize in adult fiction. Professional reviews
come from a variety of sources, including, but not limited to, Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Booklist,
and more. Staff also considers advertising from publishers, who hold webinars on upcoming titles, feature
author talks, or send out catalogs of titles.
Patron Rights:
Should any patron have concerns about any item in the collection they may refer to this section of the
NBPL Collection Development Policy:
Library patrons with concerns about a specific title in the collection shall be provided with a copy of
this Policy and asked to complete the "Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources" form…
Library staff shall evaluate the material, based on this Policy. A recommendation shall be forwarded
to the Director who shall respond in writing to the patron (“Director’s Decision”). Once the Director
has made the Director’s Decision, copies of the Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources
and the Director’s Decision shall be provided to the Board at its subsequent regular meeting.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Policy, any materials in the Children’s
Collection or Teen Collection considered not age appropriate by the Director will be relocated to
another Library location or the Director may take other actions pursuant to the Collection
Maintenance section in this Policy. If a patron disagrees with the Director’s Decision, the patron may
appeal to the Board for final resolution. The appeal shall be filed on the “Application for Appeal of
Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees” (“Appeal Application”), and the
Board’s final resolution shall be determined in accordance with the “Procedures for Patron’s Appeal
of Evaluation to the Board of Library Trustees” (“Procedures”).
77
Library Materials Selection
April 15, 2024
Page 3
Our current collection features over 243,000 items.
Adult Children’s Teen
Fic�on 58,676 50,840 5,110
Nonfic�on 53,403 22,968 581
Non-book 44,653 7,032 N/A
Total Collec�on 156,732 80,840 5,691
De-Selecting or “Weeding” Process:
The process of removing titles or items from the library collections is just as thorough as the selection
process. Staff rely on a variety of data points to choose what to remove, including drawing from the
Library’s Collection Development Policy, which lays out ongoing collection maintenance terms for the
collection:
To maintain the quality and relevance of the collection, the Library regularly withdraws materials
that are worn, outdated, superseded or obsolete. Space limitations require that duplicate copies
no longer in demand also be withdrawn. (NBPL2)
To identify items that meet the Policy’s collection maintenance terms, staff often rely on Collection HQ.
Selectors are assigned monthly checklists to review areas in their purview. Collection HQ provides a list of
items that have fallen into one of several categories:
1. “Dead” items: items that have not circulated in over a year.
2. “Dead on Arrival” items: items that have zero circulations in their first year.
3. “Grubby” items: items that have circulated more than 40 times.
4. “Collection Check” items: items that have not circulated in more than four years.
As of December 2023, through March 2024, NBPL currently has a “Dead” rate of 32.47%, a “Grubby” rate
of 31.24%, and the Collection Check rate of 3.24%. The “Dead on Arrival” rate of 6.7% is from September
2022 through September 2023.
78
Library Materials Selection
April 15, 2024
Page 4
In addition to the statistical analysis of collection, performed by Collection HQ, selectors rely on a set of
weeding standards, most helpfully outlined in CREW: A Weeding Manual for Modern Libraries by Texas State
Library and Archives Commision, Austin, Texas—2012. CREW is an acronym for Continuous Review
Evaluation and Weeding. The CREW method “calls for systematic and continuous weeding of the collection”
(2012, pg 16). The full text can be found at https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ld/pubs/crew/index.html.
79
Library Materials Selection
April 15, 2024
Page 5
At NBPL, our selectors typically apply the CREW methodology when analyzing items for de-selection from
the lists provided by Collection HQ. Because an item appears on a colleciton checklist does not
automatically mean it will be removed. Instead, selectors consider the ciculation of the items and other
factors such as:
• availability of more updated versions of materials
• potential usefulness of an item in the future
• relationship of an item to other items in the collection on that subject
• availability of more current information through library databases or open resources
Additionally, staff is continuously reviewing the collection as a whole, analyzing all items for things like
obsolete information, materials that hold outdated prejudices, unnecessary duplicates, old-fashioned
binding/jacket art, space availability, among other criteria including those laid out in the Collection
Development Policy.
De-selected Materials:
A small number of damaged or grubby items are directly disposed of, while the rest withdrawn items are
given to the Friends of the Library. Once the Friends review these items, they can choose to add them to
their book sale or dispose of them. The Friends have partnered with a third party to take discards.
Conclusion:
The library materials selection process is a very thoughtful, intentional process from beginning to end.
Staff selectors consider a myriad of tools and standards when choosing to add or remove items. Though
the process may appear simple to those outside of the Library, it is only because the expertise and
professionalism of NBPL staff makes it look easy.
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).
80
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: April 10, 2024
Re: Library Foundation Report
1. The Foundation has invested in a service called FreeWill, as part of the Library
Foundation’s commitment to financial literacy. The Foundation is offering the FreeWill
service to all Library patrons. FreeWill is an online tool to simplify the estate planning
process. An individual can create a legally valid (California approved) will online at no
cost. We hope that an individual will include the Library Foundation in their legacy
planning, but the goal is for people to create an estate plan whether the Library
Foundation is included or not.
a. https://www.freewill.com/nbplf?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=website&utm_ca
mpaign=nbplf_waystogivepg_gr
2. The Foundation’s Spring Financial Literacy Workshops begin Monday April 15 at 10am.
They run for six consecutive Mondays, and the focus for these workshops is estate
planning.
3. The final Witte Lecture with Dahlia Lithwick is April 12 & 13 and both lectures are sold
out.
4. The final Library Live presentation with Tess Gunty, award-winning author of The Rabbit
Hutch is Thursday April 18. It is also sold out.
5. The final Spotlight on Science with UCI scientist Brett Sanders is May 15. Sanders was
awarded a NASA grant to study the California coastline, specifically for erosion and
flooding.
6. The Foundation has now $8.8 million in gifts and gift commitments toward its $12 million
goal, 50% of the cost of the construction of Witte Hall.
81
7.The speakers for the Witte Lectures have been selected and contracted and will beannounced at the Dahlia Lithwick Witte Lectures on April 12 and 13.
8.Library Live speakers are in the contract phase and will be announced in the JuneBookmark Magazine.
9.Program attendance continues to exceed budgeted goals. All Library Live and Witte
Lecture programs have been sold out.
10.The free community programs of the Foundation—Book Discussion Group (5), Medicinein Our Backyard (4), Financial Literacy Workshop (6), and Spotlight on Science (1)—
attracted 995 in attendance.
11.The Foundation will present 44 programs this season, 32 of these programs are free tothe community.
12. The April Board Meeting of the Library Foundation was on Monday April 8. PatriciaDreyfus was nominated and elected to the Board. She will continue to chair the LibraryLive Committee. Cindy Share was approved to serve on that committee.
13.Library Giving Day was April 3 and the specific request was funding for the Library topurchase 50 State Park Passes to keep that program going through 2025. The current
passes are good through 2024 but the State has cancelled them for the next year due toits budget constraints.
a.The Seed Bank funded by the Foundation has opened at Mariner’s Branch Library.We are pleased to have been able to fund this innovative program.
14.The campaign has been restructured in order to reach outside the Library andFoundation “family” to secure the final contributions to reach the $12 million goal.
a.The Foundation is funding the campaign—salaries, campaign advisors, printing,social media, events, from its own budget. This is a significant expense funded byFoundation contributors.
b.It is important for the community to understand that Witte Hall, the civic auditoriumnow under site preparation, is not a Foundation building. Like the Central Library, forwhich the Foundation was the advocate for its construction and funded 1/3rd of the
building, the Foundation is the conduit, the fiscal agent, for the philanthropiccommunity to support its construction.
82
3
Library Live 2023-2024
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 SOLD OUT
Witte Lectures 2024
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 SOLD OUT
Saturday, April 13, 2024 SOLD OUT
Free Programs
Medicine in our Backyard, Spotlight on Science and Book
Discussion Group
995
83