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05-20-2024 BLT Agenda Packet
CITY 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, May 20, 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, May 19, 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 V.RECONVENE AT 4:30 P.M. FOR REGULAR MEETING VI.ROLL CALL VII.CLOSED SESSION REPORT 1 May 20, 2024 Page 2 Board of Library Trustees Meeting 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 "It Feels Good to Be Yourself" by Theresa Thorn (pp. 6-11)2. The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director's Decision of "It Feels Good to Be Yourself" by Theresa Thorn. STAFF REPORT ATTACHMENTS A-C Appeal Hearing of "Who Are You" by Brook Pessin-Whedbee (pp. 12-27)3. The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director's Decision of "Who Are You?" by Brook Pessin-Whedbee. STAFF REPORT ATTACHMENTS A-C Appeal Hearing of "Not My Idea" by Anastasia Higginbotham (pp. 28-41)4. The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director's Decision of "Not My Idea" by Anastasia Higginbotham. 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. 2 May 20, 2024 Page 3 Board of Library Trustees Meeting A.Consent Calendar Items Minutes of the April 15, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting (pp. 42-57)5. DRAFT MINUTES Patron Comments (pp. 58-61)6. Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests received from patrons. PATRON COMMENTS Library Activities (pp. 62-72)7. Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics. APRIL ACTIVITIES Expenditure Status Report (p. 73)8. Monthly expenditure status of the library's operating expenses, services, salaries, and benefits by department. APRIL EXPENSES Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List (p. 74)9. 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 Children's Collection Development Policy Review (pp. 75-88)10. Review and discuss the Children’s Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee’s proposed amendments to Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy and provide direction to staff. STAFF REPORT ATTACHMENTS A-C 3 May 20, 2024 Page 4 Board of Library Trustees Meeting FY 2024-25 Library Services Budget (pp. 89-92)11. Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the FY 2024-25 operating budget for the Library. STAFF REPORT ATTACHMENT A Marketing and Social Networking Update (pp. 93-108)12. Marketing Specialist Maria Nicklin will provide the annual briefing on Library marketing and social media activities. STAFF REPORT ATTACHMENT A Summer Reading Program Update (pp. 109-112)13. Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth will provide an update of the Summer Reading Program for summer 2024. STAFF REPORT Media Lab Update (pp. 113-114)14. Staff will update the Board of Library Trustees on the Media and Sound Lab at Central Library. STAFF REPORT Approval of Site Placement for A Novel Idea by Craig Gray (pp. 115-117)15. Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the new Balboa Branch Library as the site placement for the sculpture A Novel Idea by Craig Gray. STAFF REPORT ATTACHMENTS A-B Acceptance of Donation (p. 118)16. Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the acceptance of donations from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation and from Harbor View Elementary Associated Student Body. STAFF REPORT 4 May 20, 2024 Page 5 Board of Library Trustees Meeting Lecture Hall Update (pp. 119-121)17. Report on activities related to the Lecture Hall project. LECTURE HALL UPDATE Balboa Branch Replacement Update18. Report on activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project. Library Services (pp. 62-72)19. Report of library issues regarding services, patrons and staff. B.Monthly Reports Library Foundation Liaison Reports (pp. 122-123)20. 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 Report21. Trustee update of the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting. Pals4pal Liaison Report22. 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 5 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 2 ABSTRACT: The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold or modify the Director’s Decision of “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn. 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” form for “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn, and the associated Director’s Decision resulted in “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” remaining in the children’s nonfiction 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 “It Feels Good to Be Yourself”. The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn 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 “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn 6 6 ATTACHMENT A 7 7 (Cont. from page 1) at one time in the library. I know Mariner's parents have in fact emailed you, and two grandparents of Mariner's students have spoken to you at board meetings. They are not given the choice to tell their children what they can and can't view at the library. In Ms. Hartson's letter, she also states that the title in question "checks out often showing interest and demand." Again, as I have stated in my other appeals, and told to some of you, many parents (including myself} have checked this and other titles out numerous times, not because we or our children have interest in the book, but because we were so shocked it was on the shelf, and wanted to share with the community exactly what NBPL was providing to children. This book and others have made the rounds at community town halls, board meetings, political events, mommy and me groups, and churches. People have been disgusted with what they now know is on the shelves. Just because it has been checked out (by adults} doesn't mean that it is of high interest, or appropriate for children. Now, moving away from Ms. Hartson's reasons, allow me to touch on what the book actually says, to small children. Here are a few quotes: "Alex is BOTH A BOY AND A GIRL." "JJ is NEITHER A BOY NOR A GIRL." "See, when you were born, you couldn't tell people who you were or how you felt. They looked at you and made a guess." WHAT???? Remember, this book is for children ages 5-8. Factually, the books statements are incorrect (though this book is in the non-fiction section, meaning statements made are supposed to be real and true.) The doctors DO NOT make a guess when the baby comes out. We all understand this. There are boys and there are girls, and yes, the extremely tiny amount of the population that is born intersex, but that is not what this book is discussing. Do you think this book could possibly be confusing to most children? Te lling them that people made a guess if they were a boy or girl? Or that they can be both or neither? It is true that in today's society, some FEEL like they are something different, but that doesn't change what they ACTUALLY are. Might this perhaps be better on the parenting shelf in the adult section, if an adult wants to teach this to their child? With the current collection policy, which doesn't allow content to be looked at, and librarians and library staff that don't read the books to know what they say, isn't this starting to become an issue for the library? Blindly trusting politically captured publishers and review sites that seemingly only push left leaning content leads to books like these (plus the many more new ones that have been ordered and are "coming soon") replacing common sense basic biology that has been around for hundreds of years. It is foolish to blindly trust these review sites that give glowing, "starred" reviews to all of these types of books, but not to classical literature, and don't even review "conservative" titles. I urge you to question why this is. Every children's book ever published in the last 5 years that celebrates changing their gender is highly praised by these large companies, while a best selling series that teaches children the principles of economics and history (Tuttle Twins) receives nothing, no stars, no reviews, zero. I urge you to consider moving this title out of the children's section, and into the parenting section, or some other adult section. This is then not "banning" a book, but simply moving it. Thank you. 8 8 ATTACHMENT B 9 9 ATTACHMENT C 10 10 11 11 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 3 ABSTRACT: The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold or modify the Director’s Decision of “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee. 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 two “Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources” forms for “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee, and the associated Director’s Decision resulted in “Who Are You?” remaining in the children’s nonfiction 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 “Who Are You?”. The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin- Whedbee 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 “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee 12 12 ATTACHMENT A 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 22 ATTACHMENT B 23 23 ATTACHMENT I·, PATRON'S REQUEST FOR EVALUATION 10F LIBRARY RESOURCES We appreciate your interest in the mater,alswhich have been selected for inclusion in the collection of the Newport Beach Public library. If you have a concern about a specific item, we would appreciate your assistance in addressing the matter. Please fill out this form and return it to the Site Manager, The staff will evaluate the material and forward a recommendation to the Library Services Director. Resources on which you were commenting: Book Audiovisual Resource Content of Library Program Other 111-C ATTACHMENT C 24 24 25 25 2626 27 27 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 4 ABSTRACT: The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold or modify the Director’s Decision of “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham. 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 four “Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources” forms for “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham, and the associated Director’s Decision resulted in “Not My Idea” remaining in the children’s nonfiction 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 “Not My Idea”. The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham 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 “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham 28 28 ATTACHMENT A 29 29 30 30 ATTACHMENT B 31 31 ATTACHMENT C 32 32 33 33 34 34 35 35 36 36 37 37 38 38 39 39 40 40 41 41 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Board of Library Trustees Civic Center Council Chambers 1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport Beach Meeting Minutes Monday, April 15, 2024 – 3:30 PM I.CALL MEETING TO ORDER – 3:30 PM Chair Paul Watkins called to order the regular meeting of the Newport Beach Board ofLibrary Trustees. II.ROLL CALL – Roll call by Administrative Support Specialist Francine Jacome. Trustees Present: Chair Paul Watkins, Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, Trustee AntonellaCastro, 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.CLOSED SESSION 1.Discuss the Library Services Director’s Appointment, Employment andEvaluation of Performance (Government Code § 54957). Chair Watkins called for public comments. Jim Mosher, Newport Beach resident, commented regarding the evaluation of the Library Director. He has experienced three Directors since attending the meetings in 2009. The Director has two roles, the first working downward in the hierarchy with staff members and advocating for the library upwards in the overall City Administration with commissioners, city managers and council members. His hope had been that the Director would be a little more visionary. Director Hartson is an excellent director, if he had to provide room for improvement it would be to work a little more in the upward direction advocating the library. Lori Johnstone, Newport Beach resident, spoke regarding the two books in question and she is against censoring any books in the public library. 42 42 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 2 Chair Watkins stated the Board of Trustees would be moving into Closed Session with Assistant City Manager Tara Finnigan to review the performance of the Director of Library Services for the past year. The Regular meeting would begin at approximately 4:30. IV. RECESS - 3:42 P.M. V. RECONVENE AT 4:30 P.M. FOR REGULAR MEETING VI. 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/Technical Processing Coordinator Erin Spivey, Adult Services Coordinator Staff Absent None VII. CLOSED SESSION REPORT Chair Watkins reported the Board met in Closed Session to review the past year’s performance of the Director of Library Services with the Assistant City Manager Tara Finnigan. VIII. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Trustee Chase Rief led the Pledge of Allegiance IX. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC - Waived X. PATRON APPEALS OF DIRECTOR’S DECISIONS Library Services Director Melissa Hartson introduced the Appeal Hearing. Chair Watkins provided the background history of when this process began, and the steps taken that brought the Board to this point for the two book decisions that are being appealed and explained the appeals process. He visited all of the branches to review the children’s section area of the library. The library defines the age range for the children’s section to be 0-6th grade. The teen section is 7th grade through 12th grade. He read both titles that are being appealed. He reviewed the Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2), including approximately 20 selection criteria included in the Policy. Included in the packet, beginning on page 77, is an outline of the selectors, their qualifications to be 43 43 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 3 selectors, and what they generate by way of opinions. There are over 243,000 collection materials in the three Newport Beach branches. There have been 140 emails regarding the books in the appeal, all of which have been read. The Board’s commitment is to keep an open mind regarding the appeals, to listen to both sides, offer input as Board members, and help craft a consensus/final resolution as per the Collection Development Policy. The Director’s decision was to retain each of the books in the children’s section. That decision has been appealed. Based upon the 20 criteria set forth in the Policy, the Board will either uphold or amend the Director’s decision for a final resolution for each title. Chair Watkins provided information regarding spectator rules. This is the first appeal, and the appellants were grandfathered in for the first book titled “Melissa”. Each appellant will be provided with three minutes to state their appeal. The order of speaking was according to the order in which the appeal was received by the Library. Members of the public were provided with two minutes each to speak during the public comment period during the meeting. 2. Appeal Hearing of “Melissa” by Alex Gino The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Melissa” by Alex Gino Chair Watkins called for the first appellant. Haley Jenkins cited specific text from the book and noted that the Collection Development Policy doesn’t define “age appropriate” but does say that material for each age group will be judged differently. Viewpoint discrimination cannot be an argument when there are over 100 children and teen books in the LBGTQ category in the catalog. She hoped the Board would choose wisely. Debra Klein spoke her appeal and cited the Director’s decision was based on a children’s collection policy that does not exist; therefore, the decision was made based on the general Collection Development Policy. The organizations chosen to use reviews during the Director’s decision are biased and have their own agenda. Brave Books hosted a storytime at the Central Library last year, yet their books are not allowed on the shelves. There should be a collection development policy for the children’s collection. Sydni Webb provided her appeal stating any book that contains information regarding the process of transition, how to remove internet browsing history, reference to pornography, references to looking up girl’s skirts in a school setting, and details on how a child would remove under garments, should not be found in the children’s section of a library. Ms. Webb read direct excerpts from the book and explained that if any of what she read was discussed in a work environment the person would be considered liable for sexual harassment. The policy states that material in the children section needs to be age appropriate, and parents and caregivers are responsible for the material their children read; however, two of the branches are open for elementary school use when parents and caregivers are not present. Director of Library Services Melissa Hartson provided information to support the original decision made for the book. Material for the library is selected based on their content as a whole. The children’s collection is intended through grade 6. The book was published by the largest distributer of children’s books in the world. Their suggested reader range is 8-12 years of age. The book has received favorable reviews from all of the major 44 44 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 4 professional review journals for children’s books. The reviews contain precise summaries that identify the book’s strengths and weaknesses and list the age per grade level suitability for books. Director Hartson provided the age suitability for “Melissa” per each resource review. The book received a number of acknowledgements for literary merit. California Department of Education includes the book in its recommended book list for middle school grades. It received the Read Aloud Book Award which has never been awarded to a young adult or teen fiction book chosen for this award, but only children’s titles. Accelerated Reader is used by elementary schools is a student reading and achievement assessment tool that established the book as a Level 5.0. The companion book “Rick” remains in the children’s section of the library after the Director’s Decision was provided in December 2023 and addresses the same themes as “Melissa” and is intended for readers aged 8 to 12. The book has been checked out 98 times showing an interest and demand for the title. Sixty of those transactions occurred prior to September 2023, when the library received the first patron’s request for evaluation of resources form. Due to the reasons stated, the book meets the conditions as established by the Collection Development Policy for the children’s fiction collection. Chair Watkins called for public comments and requested all comments be limited to two minutes and focused on the pros and cons of the appeal and not extraneous arguments. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in support of the decisions made by the library staff. Parents have the right to make their own decisions for their children, all children should be allowed to grow up without prejudice. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the decision made by the professional staff that work for the library. [Unidentified Speaker] quoted the author of “Melissa” from an interview and spoke against the decision made by the Director. Tom Courtney (Newport Beach) addressed concerns relating to the book and age appropriateness, in support of the Director’s decision. Foz Meadows (Irvine) provided information about the history of transgender, in support of the Director’s decision. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke regarding bans as it pertains to censorship and its use to protect children from danger that they are too young to recognize; and not applying those same principles to printed material, in opposition to the Director’s decision. Vien Nguyen (Newport Beach) spoke in advocacy of the Director’s decision stating the book is about gender identity and is appropriate for the library. Whitney Gomez spoke in favor of the Director’s decision citing that her 8-year-old read the book which prompted Ms. Gomez to also read the book, and it was the opening to an important and impactful conversation, and she highly recommended reading the book. Beverly Betcher spoke against the Director’s decision and was surprised at the references in the book regarding a male child’s body during puberty in the children’s section of the library and found the topic of the book inappropriate. 45 45 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 5 [Unidentified Speaker] spoke against the Director’s decision citing the library is funded by taxpayers, and they should have a say in what material is made available to their children. Cece spoke with her brother in favor of the Director’s decision as reading the book helped her understand her cousin’s transition from boy to girl. Pam Monroe spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision stating while looking for the book “Melissa” she ran across another book in the children’s section that was even more inappropriate in the library; all material should be G-rated. Chair Watkins stated the book referenced has also been appealed and is scheduled for a hearing later in the summer. Alex (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and about her own experience of being an avid child reader and all books she read led to other questions which is a natural process of learning. Julie Nance spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and found nothing in the book that represented age inappropriateness. Maggie Maser spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and stated as a law student the opposing side was singling out a few books about transgender and not all books regarding sexual education. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and spoke about the importance of the library being a source of education in a safe place. Thuy Vo Dang (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and how she found the public library a safe place to learn about inclusion and the importance of trusting the professionals to make the right choices in the library system. Francine Howard spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision, questioning the value of children’s innocence. It’s not a question of having the book available for families to read together rather a choice of making the book available to children without supervision. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision and believed the book is not developmentally appropriate for children and should be relocated to another section of the library. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and did not find anything inappropriate in the book. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and believes Newport Beach values should include tolerance, compassion, and empathy and the book should continue to be available for children who don’t have support anywhere else. 46 46 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 6 [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in opposition of the Director’s decision and about her professional experiences in child development and believes children are not developed enough emotionally to process that type of information. Karen Clark (Corona del Mar) spoke in support of the Director’s decision and found nothing sexual in the book and was unable to find any negative reviews of the book in google and 99% of the reviews on Amazon were positive. Cindy Parker (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the director’s Decision and as a physician did not find anything pornographic or sexual about the book. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and believed the issue is that parents are not understanding the concept of the book, not that the book is inappropriate. Mari Riley spoke in support of the Director’s decision and transgender representation is important. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and as a teacher has found the book helpful in many children’s lives who have struggled with their gender identity and bullying. Carol Hacker (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and did not find the book pornographic, rather supported children struggling with these issues and helped teach them how to communicate how they are feeling. [Unidentified Speaker] (Costa Mesa) spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision solely for the Mariners branch because the local elementary school uses that branch without parental supervision during school hours. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and provided information about personal experiences of needing books to help open communication about difficult life situations with children and couldn’t find what she needed because adults were uncomfortable with the information in the book. Sarah Stock spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision as teaching young children the process of transitioning is not appropriate. [Unidentified Speaker] (Costa Mesa) spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision. She did not find the book offensive but did not feel the book was age appropriate for the children’s section. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and did not see how the book would harm young readers. Carly Wilkenson (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and removing the book would violate freedom of speech and would violate the fundamental right for parents to parent in the fashion they choose appropriate. 47 47 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 7 [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and in banning “Melissa” there are many other books that would need to be banned under the same guidelines, including “Charlotte’s Web” and quoted excerpts. Banning books is teaching the next generation exclusiveness, not inclusiveness. Teesha Prudoux spoke in opposition of the Director’s decision and believed adult information should not be available in the children’s section of the library. Joni Nichols (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and stated relocating books sets a dangerous precedent, books that don’t align with people’s values is not a reason to set those books apart from others. Chair Watkins brought the discussion back to the Board and explained the Board’s professional experience for making the decision of final resolution, and he has respect for the library professionals who work in libraries. He provided his own history of visiting the library as a child and stated that moms and dads and caregivers are those responsible for what their children are exposed to. Reading to his grandchildren is an important part of his family’s lives. He reviewed the Collection Development Policy, including the suitability of the subject for the intended audience and that material for children may be judged differently than material for teens and adults. Chair Watkins is not a fan of book removal unless the title is clearly obscene or pornographic. He does not believe that “Melissa” is pornographic. The material in “Melissa” is a mature level subject matter, and based on the two policies previously cited, he believed that relocation of the book into the teen section of the Newport Beach Public Library branches would be appropriate. Other factors included in making his decision included the original request for evaluation, the Director’s decisions, the appeal forms, public input from the meeting, the presentations from the library and the appellants, and the review of the collection development policy. Emphasizing that the Board is subject to the Brown Act, and the Board has not discussed their personal views with each other, Chair Watkins requested other Trustee’s opinions. Secretary Lauren Kramer commented that it’s a public library, it is not necessary for her to agree with the content of material; if there is a desire of people to read the book it should be available for those interested. Freedom is an important concept; society has to make room for those that are different than what they believe. Material is not being forced on people; people choose what they want to read. She believed there were legitimate concerns with the material, but each person should be allowed to make the decision that’s best for them. Her only concern with the material is from a medical standpoint. When a child starts hormone therapy it stops the growth of the organs that allow a person to conceive a child. Elementary age children are not emotionally mature enough to make a choice that would permanently alter their ability to have children as adults. She leaned in the direction of upholding the Director’s decision. Trustee Antonella Castro appreciated everyone sharing their perspective and explained the book is an important resource to have available in the library, and gender identity is a very complex subject and should not necessarily be something a child should learn about without a conversation with an adult. She leaned towards the decision of the Chair to have the book relocated to the teen section for availability for the young adults and families who find the book beneficial. It’s a well written book about a very complex topic. 48 48 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 8 Vice Chair Dorothy Larson believed children are underestimated in that adults believe they are not ready to be exposed to a particular point and view when they actually already have been exposed through friends and the internet. The library is a place where you can control what children are exposed to and it’s important for children to pick out their own books. It’s apparent by the public comments provided at this meeting that two different people can read material and come away with two very different perspectives on the subject of that material. Some of those perspectives seem jaded; children do not become transgender or gay by reading a book, they become informed about such life issues. A friend communicated that this book could be lifesaving to a child that finds it on their own and whose parents don’t have knowledge of what their child was going through. Children who transition do not know what transgender is, all they know is they are uncomfortable in their own bodies. It is the parents’ responsibility to know when a child has visited the library and can ask what they read and answer any questions the child may have. It would be extremely inappropriate to undermine and usurp our librarians’ authority by putting this book anywhere other than where it is. It’s potentially lifesaving. Trustee Chase Rief stated he’s been thinking about this for several months and appreciated all of the comments. He has two elementary age children who visit the library weekly, and he doesn’t always know everything they review and check out. The hormone therapy information concerns him from a permanent unintended consequences standpoint. He does not believe in banning books completely. Relocating the book still allows parents to introduce the subject and open discussions with their children if they choose. Chair Watkins summarized the Boards opinions, noting three in favor of relocation and two who feel the book should be left where it is and requested a motion. Motion made by Trustee Castro, seconded by Trustee Chase Rief, and carried (3-2-0-0) in favor of relocating the book “Melissa” to the teen section of the Newport Beach Library branches. AYES: Watkins, Castro, Rief NOES: Larson, Kramer ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: Chair Watkins called for a five-minute break to allow anyone to leave if they would like. The Board of Library Trustees resumed with all members present. 3. Appeal Hearing of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack. Chair Watkins opened the appeal for “Prince & Knight” and called for the appellant Bill Dunlap to present his appeal. Mr. Bill Dunlap stated that those opposing the Director’s decisions are not about banning books. The education of children should not be about how fast they can make them 49 49 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 9 adults, but how they share the joy of learning throughout the rest of their lives. The subject matters should be incremental as their age increases. The appeal request for “Prince & Knight” is not about banning books but relocating it into another area of the library, and the appropriateness of subject matter for children ages 4 to 8. Parents should make the determination of what is appropriate for children of such young ages. The book does not comply with the Early Childhood Development Index. The Mariners branch is open to elementary aged children ages 4-8 without parental supervision, the book should not be in the Children’s section of the library. The resources used to make the original determination are organizations that get paid by publishers of the book and are located in other areas of the country that do not necessarily reflect the local standards of Newport Beach. Director of Library Services Melissa Hartson provided information regarding the author’s intention of the book and the resources used in making the original determination and the transaction history of the book. It is a modern-day fairy tale that is a children’s picture book. The short phrases are set forth in rhyme which is often a characteristic of children’s picture books. The picture book collection is located in the children’s room which is separate from the school’s library. Children who attend Mariners Elementary School do not have access to that picture book collection. Twenty-one other libraries in the county have the book “Prince & Knight” in their collection and in their children’s picture book collection. Library Services Director Hartson reported publisher information, age appropriateness, and professional review information which provided both strengths and weaknesses of the book. It was found suitable for ages 4-8. Chair Watkins opened the appeal to public comments. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and trusts the librarians knowledge and professionalism for making the decision. Foz Meadows (Irvine) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and stated inappropriate judgment of the book is a smokescreen to saying “queerness” is a danger to children. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and explained she has several members of her church who grew up being forced to read only heterosexual material and it didn’t make them straight. Annie Vangrow (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision stating that trained Librarians should be trusted to select material based on their professional education. Vien Nguyen (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and appreciated the comments from Vice Chair Larson and Trustee Kramer regarding freedom rights and how children are often underestimated. The subject matter in “Prince & Knight” is far less complicated and should be allowed to stay in the children’s section of the library. Sydni Webb (Newport Beach) spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision stating the book is not appropriate for 4- to 8-year-old children. The book is a complex subject that should not be pushed on children. 50 50 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 10 Janet Hadley (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and read part of the Newport Beach Library’s Children in the Library Policy regarding children under the age of 12. Francine Howard spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision since the library becomes a school library for part of the school week when parents are not available to monitor their children’s activities. Lori Johnstone (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and appreciated Vice Chair Larson’s comments regarding “Melissa”, the concept of age appropriateness is a subjective decision. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in disagreement of the appeal for the book and understands how difficult the decision process must be. Andra Broekelschen (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and is highly disappointed in the decision to remove any book from any section of the library. Cindy Parker spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and requested the Board not vote to pull the book; it is a wonderful love story. Tom Courtney spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and commented that the book is a sweet story and was surprised at the amount of time put into the appeal of the two books. It is not the best way to handle these types of issues. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision, all of the public comments represent a diversity of opinions, however, finds the book inappropriate. Debra Klein spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision based on the Mariners branch being used as a school library during the week. Joy Brenner (Newport Beach) thanked the Board for their work and spoke in favor of the Director’s judgment. She read the material and found the book age appropriate for the children’s section. Joni Nichols (Newport Beach) read a poem depicting the beliefs of inclusiveness and spoke in favor of the Director’s decision, as a midwife she now would like to give the book to every woman after having birth. Chair Watkins commented that it is a picture book that is relatively innocent and it’s sweet and the age of 4-8 is somewhat of a close call in terms of appropriateness and was inclined to uphold the Director’s decision. Trustee Rief commented that he read the book and there was no sexual content in the book, therefore would vote to uphold the Director’s decision. Vice Chair Larson believed that appellant mistakenly thought the book was available in the school library section of the Mariners branch and that is not the case according to library staff and would vote to uphold the Director’s decision. 51 51 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 11 Secretary Kramer thanked everyone who provided comments during this process. Newport Beach is an incredible city with different viewpoints and believes all library material should be publicly accessible and her decision would be to uphold the Director’s decision. Trustee Castro commented she agreed with the Director’s decision that was made based on the Collection Development Policy. Motion made by Trustee Castro, seconded by Trustee Chase Rief, and carried (5-0-0-0) in favor of upholding the Director’s Decision to keep the book “Prince & Knight” in the children’s section. AYES: Watkins, Castro, Rief, Larson, Kramer NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: XI. 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. 4. Minutes of the March 18, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting Chair Watkins noted Mr. Mosher’s changes to the minutes in the email included in the Agenda Packet and Chair found all the corrections acceptable. 5. Patron Comments Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests received from patrons. Chair Watkins noted Circulation and Technical Processing Coordinator Andy Kachaturian exhibited good practice and manners when responding to a patron’s regarding the elevators, restrooms and bistro café. 6. Library Activities Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics. 7. Expenditure Status Report Monthly expenditure status of the library’s operating expenses, services, salaries, and benefits by department. Chair Watkins reported they are 75% through the Fiscal Year (FY) and they are through 69.5% of expenditures and a little under 5% under budget. 8. Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List 52 52 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 12 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 Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, seconded by Secretary Lauren Kramer, and carried (5-0-0-0) to approve the Consent Calendar Items 1-8 with the minor changes to the March 18, 2024 draft minutes. AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: XII. CURRENT BUSINESS A. Items for Review 9. Library Materials Selection Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey will provide an overview of materials selection. Chair Watkins commended Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey for the outstanding description of her selectors of how choices are made in the collections area. There are 243,000 items in the Library collection. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey reported on the Library materials selection process, explained the collection objectives, the goal of the Newport Beach Public Library as stated under the Objectives of Library Policy NBPL 2, the tools used for the selection process and the education of the individuals involved in making the selections, and the process by which the selections are made. Additionally, should any patrons have concerns regarding an item that has been selected, they may refer to the Collection Development Policy and submit a request for evaluation. Selection for weeding through or retiring material is based on condition of the material, demand of usage by patrons, and the meaning and process of Continuous Review Evaluation and Weeding (CREW). Adult Services Coordinator Spivey’s full report can be found in the Agenda packet for the meeting. Secretary Lauren Kramer questioned what they do to ensure they have a balanced collection. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey responded that the resources they use are from professional librarians or associated with publishing and writing. They also rely on Common Sense Media, which has staff that include teachers and librarians, in addition to community use and history of demand for the material. They are required by education to examine the bias of the material to ensure material is in place regardless of their personal opinions. Trustee Rief appreciated the update and inquired if staff selects every book that comes in or is there a service they subscribe to. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey answered they choose every title. The service they subscribe to provides recommendations. 53 53 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 13 Vice Chair Larson thanked Adult Services Coordinator Spivey for the report and the detailed information. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments. Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) commented that regardless of the demand for material, staff is limited by their budget for acquiring new material and was interested in the percentage of material they are able to turn over each year and if staff believed the library would be better if there was more turnover of items, how much turnover would be ideal, and how long a book sits idle prior to being turned over, and if material is put on display so patrons are aware it is about to be turned over. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey, at the request of Chair Watkins, responded to Mr. Mosher stating that she was unaware of the percentage of material that is new each year but would look into it for him. They do feature books that are in low demand in a variety of displays in order to help get them in circulation. Haley Jenkins commented and thanked Adult Services Coordinator Spivey for the report and Secretary Kramer for asking how they determine a balance. She has found in recent years it is hard to find a balance of conservative material for adults and children in the libraries and has had to resort to ordering them online. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 10. Lecture Hall Update Report on activities related to the Library Lecture Hall project. Library Services Director Hartson reported construction has begun, they can feel the earth move and hear the noises. Pictures were included in the packet for the Board. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 11. Balboa Branch Replacement Update Report on the activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project. Chair Watkins stated the ad hoc subcommittee had nothing to report and opened the item up for public comment. Chair Watkins received and filed the non-report. 12. Library Services Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons, and staff. Library Services Director Hartson reported the new library app is available and ready for downloading and is available for Android and Apple devices. Trustee Castro inquired how the app is being advertised. Library Services Director Hartson explained they sent out an eblast that included information and links to download, it’s on the City’s website, and there’s a banner advertisement. Trustee Castro suggested seeing if they can put it out on the City’s Instagram account. 54 54 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 14 Chair Watkins opened the item for public comment. Hearing none he received and filed the report. B. Monthly Reports 13. Library Foundation Liaison Reports A. Library Foundation Board Report on the most recently attended meeting. Chair Watkins stated that Jerry Kappel’s (Library Foundation CEO) Foundation update was excellent and included in the packet. There have been sell outs for both Library Live and Witte Lectures. His report provides great information on both the Library Foundation Board and the Library Live Lecture committee which Chair Watkins attended the Foundation Board meeting on April 8. Vice Chair Larson commented that she’s looking forward to the new Lecture Hall, every program in both series has sold out. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Library Live Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting. 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. 14. Friends of the Library Liaison Report Trustee update on the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting. Trustee Rief reported there will be a used cookbook sale coming soon. The Friends of the Library received 300 boxes of cookbooks donated from one patron. It would be worth an eblast. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 15. Pals4pal Liaison Report Trustee update of the Pals4pal Board meeting. Trustee Castro reported she attended the recent Board meeting in which they focused on taxes and administrative items. Literacy Coordinator Gabriela Leman had sent a request that was approved for the program, resulting in a couple of tutors attending a literacy conference. 55 55 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 15 Chair Watkins received and filed the report. XIII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS – Two Minutes per speaker Wendy Leece commented in appreciation to the Board for their due diligence on the appeal hearing items and spoke regarding mending fences and bridging the gaps between the opposing sides and the importance of being respectful during the process of material evaluations and inquired if the City or the Newport-Mesa Unified School District purchases materials used for the school section of the Mariners branch. Ms. Leece encouraged use of additional local companies for material review. Library Services Director Hartson stated that the Newport Beach Public Library purchases the books for the public library which includes the elementary school library section. There is a mechanism between the City and the District that if the District would like to add to the collection, they must go through the Library’s process to add. If the District requests material be removed from the collection, the Library adheres to that request per the agreement. Dianne Wells inquired if the Trustees had considered amending the Board of Library Trustees by-laws. The last time they were amended was May 19, 2014, and provided examples of outdated information and requested including parents and community members in the review and selection process of acquiring material for the Children’s Collection; and Ms. Wells proposed a wide range of book review sources to be used for material reviews. Jim Mosher complimented the staff and the Foundation on the launch of the seed library at the Mariners branch and suggested there may be opportunities outside the branch to plant seeds under the oak trees as a demonstration for people of the seed collection, particularly showing off the native plants which grow. 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) Secretary Kramer commended the new Seed Library at the Mariners branch and requested they add a review/approval item for the Summer Reading Program on the May agenda; additionally, an ad hoc subcommittee could be useful if started in July to review potential savings for the FY2025-26 budget and volunteered to serve on the committee. Trustee Rief stated he would if Vice Chair Larson declined. Vice Chair Larson agreed to serve on the ad hoc subcommittee currently but reserved the right to step away and let Trustee Rief serve. Director of Library Services Hartson responded they have already begun visiting the schools to advertise for the Summer Reading Program (SRP), she will be happy to provide an update at the May meeting. They start working on the SRP for the next year after the program ends. Everything is already in place for the 2024 SRP. The performance programs have already been booked since January. Chair Watkins suggested a report would help provide ideas for the 2025 SRP. 56 56 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 16 Vice Chair Larson asked if there is a list already established for the SRP. Trustee Rief stated this is a non-discussion item and solely for the purpose of adding items to the agenda. Secretary Kramer requested the item be an approval item, not just an update. Trustee Castro hoped the Board would have some discretion of what items are made available for the SRP, and requested the update include if parents are allowed to opt out of certain books if desired. Trustee Rief reported his storytime experience for National Library Week was a great event. He invited other Trustees to also participate in the future, if possible. Chair Watkins requested there be a closed session prior to the regular May meeting to provide Library Services Director Hartson the results of her review. There are six books remaining for appeal: It Feels Good to be Yourself, Who Are You, Not My Idea, It’s Perfectly Normal, What is White Privilege, Alice Austin Lived Here. He would like to split them three on the May Agenda and three on the June Agenda. They will be chosen based on when the appeal request was received. XV. ADJOURNMENT – 7:45 P.M. The next meeting will be held in the Chambers on May 20, 2024 with the start time to be announced. 57 57 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 1 04/04/2024 Email Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/04/2024 2 04/04/2024 Email Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/04/2024 3 04/07/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/08/2024 4 04/09/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/09/2024 5 04/12/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/12/2024 Where do I go online to renew the two books I have that are due in three days, or will you auto renew and if so, how will I know you did? You may renew books online by visiting our catalog at ... In the upper right hand corner, click on “log in” and enter your barcode and password. Under “My Account”, click on “Checkouts”. You can select each item by clicking on the box on the left, or clicking “select all” and then “renew” ... Or, our system will try to automatically renew your items on the due date. You will receive an email letting you know if the renewals were successful and what your new due date is, or if the renewals were not successful and need to be returned. I hope that helps! If you need additional assistance, you can call our renewal line at 949-717-3837. Thank you. I am a retired California civil and structural engineer. I have about 90 text and reference books that I would like to donate. Do you accept these donations? Thanks. 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. I am under 13 years old and was hoping that you have volunteering opportunities for 12 year olds. Thank you for your time. Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the Newport Beach Public Library. We offer a variety of volunteer positions for students in seventh through twelfth grade and ages 12 to 18 years old. To apply, please compete the online application. A link to the online application is available on our website ... Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have further questions about available teen volunteering, I welcome you to email teenservices@newportbeachca.gov. Please note that parents have noticed how extremely dirty your carpet play area is which should require your IMMEDIATE attention. Children are playing on the filthiest carpet surfaces we have ever seen since 2019. As frequent visitors, we have never seen the carpet SO DIRTY before! Please take due diligence to have the carpet shampooed as this is a BREEDING GROUND for viruses and major bacterial contaminations. The toys were also extremely dirty which reflects a dirty play environment in general. Please take note as parents are now less interested in visiting your branch. I will be addressing this to management as well. Best wishes. Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We strive to provide a clean environment and are always looking for ways to improve our services. The children’s play areas undergo a large volume of daily use and are cleaned regularly. I will work with management to inspect the children’s play areas at each location to ensure cleaning standards are being met. Again, thank you for your email and we hope that we can exceed your expectations on your next visit. I am a new author. Is there someone I can talk to about a book launch? My book is suitable for anyone from age 8 to 80. Is there someone I can talk to about this? Thank you for reaching out to us. Is this book already published? If so, could you share the title and a little bit about it so I can determine the correct staff member for you to speak to? If you are looking to get your book published, the library has resources on how to write query letters as well as lists of agents. I’d be happy to put some materials on hold for you to pick up at your preferred location. Thank you.5858 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 6 04/13/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/15/2024 7 04/13/2024 Email Francine Jacome Administrative Support Specialist 04/15/2024 8 04/14/2024 Email Andy Kachaturian Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator 04/15/2024 9 04/15/2024 Comment Card Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/15/2024 10 04/15/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/15/2024 I am a library member. I am working on a video for friends and family. I am trying to find some place to record narration for my video/slide show. I thought that the media lab had a sound booth. Q: How can I gain access to the sound booth, and do you provide basic training on using the equipment? I am tech friendly, and a quick study. I just need to record narration/voice over for my project. Thanks. Yes, you can make a reservation to use our Sound Lab. The link and instructions can be found on our website, or you can call the reference desk at 949-717-3800, option 2, and we would be happy to assist you in booking a time ... There are some tutorials online for using the Sound Lab and the equipment. Staff can certainly help you get started ... I hope that helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you. On Saturday 4/13 afternoon, I went to the La Bella Musica concert. They announced two more concerts are scheduled. Please send me the dates in May or June. Thank you. I believe you are trying to reach the Newport Public Library in Rhode Island. I see on their website that they had La Bella Musica on Saturday. We are actually in Newport Beach, California. Their website can be found here ... And their contact information is here ... I’m sure they will be able to answer your questions. Thank you. Beautiful facility and extremely helpful librarians. My teen daughters (and I) didn't feel safe walking into the library here (NB Main library) due to the four homeless people surrounding our car this evening. Furthermore, I use your Test Proctoring services at the Marigold branch frequently, and it was disruptive to my teen daughters having a smelly homeless man sitting next to them while they were taking a three-hour Math Final Exam. Our Homeless Task Force works to place these people in homeless shelters, but some of them want to stay on the streets so they can use drugs. I'm fed up! Annika called to thank the patron for taking the time to share her feedback, and she reiterated that we take safety concerns very seriously. She encouraged the patron to call the police if she ever feels unsafe. Annika also spoke to the patron regarding her daughter’s experience at the CdM Library while using the library’s test proctoring services. She let her know to make sure to alert staff if there are any disruptions to their use of the library so that staff can address the issue in a timely manner. Annika offered her apologies and thanks once more. The patron was thankful for the call and was glad to hear that she can work with staff in the future. Where is the best place to find rates for room rentals? Primarily interested in Charles Sword size room. Thank you for your inquiry about the Charles Sword Meeting Room at the Central Library. The Sword Room is FREE to use for anyone who has a valid Newport Beach Public Library card and can accommodate a minimum of six and a maximum of 20 people. It is available via reservation. This room has Wi-Fi access, but no audio-visual equipment. You can find the complete room guidelines at ... Reservations can be made in person or by calling the Administration Office at 949- 717-3801, Mondays thru Thursdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Fridays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Thank you and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions. Would I be able to return books that I checked out from Irvine University Park Library? Thank you!The Irvine University Park Library is actually a member of the Orange County Public Library system, and not part of the Newport Beach Public Library system. For that reason, I would recommend returning your materials directly to OCPL. We would have no way to identify a borrower to remove it from your OCPL account. The Orange County system is quite large, so it is possible they have a branch closer to you. The phone number for the University Park branch is 949-786-4001 in case you would like to check with them. If we can be of any other assistance, please let us know. Best regards.5959 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 11 04/18/2024 Email Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/18/2024 12 04/19/2024 Email Terry Sanchez Programs Specialist 04/19/2024 13 04/22/2024 Email Andy Kachaturian Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator 04/22/2024 14 04/26/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/26/2024 How to propose program to library? Please feel free to advise and share your thoughts with me at your earliest convenience. It was a pleasure speaking with you this evening. As I mentioned on the phone, the library hosts a variety of children’s programs and performances. These events are typically highly interactive. Some of the criteria used when selecting programs for special events include community interests and demands; significance and compatibility of the work to the Newport Beach area; recommendations of references; and suitability of format, subject and style to the intended audience. We also consider program setup and space requirements among other logistical demands. Once you have a program proposal prepared, you may email it to me for review. Your proposal will be evaluated to determine if it meets the criteria for consideration. Please be sure to include as much detailed information as possible as to the content and format of the workshops offered. We also ask that you provide at least two references for your proposed program. Please let me know if there is anything else I can answer. I wanted to recommend having Lian Dolan visit and speak about her most recent book (and others). I think she will really resonate and connect with the NB audience. https://www.liandolan.com/ Thank you for your author event recommendation. The programming committee always appreciates our patrons' suggestions. Our current program season is complete, but we will be happy to look into this author for future programming. This is an apology. Yesterday afternoon, I went to the library intending to return books. However, as I am currently studying English and don't understand some English very well, I accidentally pressed the borrow button on the machine. Then I left the book at the library. When I saw the receipt today, I realized it showed a renewal. I knew I had made a mistake. So, I logged into my account and found that there were no books borrowed. I understand that my mistake has been corrected by you, and I'm very sorry for any inconvenience caused. Thank you! Thank you for reaching out to us. We appreciate you explaining what happened and taking the time to check up. I do not see anything on your account as you noted, so I think everything is fine. It is possible that something did get checked out and then staff checked it back in once it was found. If we can be of any other help, please let us know. Have a nice evening! When I log into the Newport Beach library, go to ProQuest or some of the other databases, they don't load after I put in my library card. Is the database system down at the moment (Apr 26, approx. 4:30 p.m. PST)? Or did something change with your system login? Thanks. I’m sorry to hear you are experiencing an issue logging into some of our databases. Will you please verify that the card number you are using is ... If that is the number, you might try clearing your web browser’s cache or using an incognito window. Please let me know if that works. If not, I will contact City’s IT support. Thank you.6060 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 15 04/29/2024 In Person Allison Sarnowski Administrative Support Technician 04/29/2024 16 04/29/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/29/2024 17 04/29/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/29/2024 A new patron stopped by Library Administration to report the great service he received from Greg. The patron needed to print some documents, but he is not very good with computers. Greg provided friendly service with a smile, and the patron was very happy to receive exactly what he needed. Allison thanked the patron for his kind feedback, and reported the compliment to Greg and the Library Admin. Team. Are you guys pet friendly?Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are welcome in the library. Non-service animals are prohibited … Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you. I have a vintage 1930's Bell & Howell Film Projector that I am looking to donate. I have tried the local Jr. College as well as UCI Film department, but unfortunately no one seems to have room for it. Would the library be interested in this item? Or would you have an idea of another outlet that may be interested? Thank you. Thank you so much for thinking of us, but unfortunately we would not be able to take the projector. I looked online to see if I could find anyone who was actively looking for vintage film equipment, but I was unable to find anywhere else to donate it. You might try calling or emailing the Academy Museum in L.A. They might know of someone who would be willing to accept it ... Thank you.6161 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 7 MELISSA HARTSON, LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR April is Earthquake Preparedness Month The Library’s Management Team and Branch Managers participated in a drill simulating a 6.2 magnitude earthquake occurring on the Newport-Inglewood Fault. Staff trained with the City’s Community Development, Fire, Police, and Public Works departments. The exercise included activating emergency response plans, assessing, reporting, and prioritizing practice scenarios, and communicating across departments in a joint effort to manage these circumstances that could result from a 6.2 magnitude earthquake. Butterfly Release Program The annual Butterfly Release at the Central Library took place on April 30. In its sixth year, the Butterfly Release was a highly anticipated event. The program began three weeks prior to the release with the arrival of the butterfly habitat to the Central Library Children’s Room. New this year, Youth Services added Ladybug Land, a live ladybug habitat. Throughout the course of three weeks, families visited the Library specifically to observe the metamorphosis. It was a wonderful opportunity for staff to connect with community members throughout the month. Families were invested in the little critters as was clear by the 174 participants in attendance for the release event. The afternoon started with crafts; then a ladybug release in the children's garden; and finally, a grand procession across the Civic Center Green to the Sculpture Exhibition where the butterflies were released. Those who had a ladybug or butterfly land on them were especially excited. It was an energetic and cheerful event that brought both storytime and afterschool families together. 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 April Library Activities – May 20, 2024 Meeting 62 62 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 2 WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES • Library Closure: Memorial Day Monday, May 27 All locations • Summer Reading Program Saturday, June 8 – Saturday, July 27 All locations • Library Closure: Repair Work Tuesday, May 28 – Friday, May 31 Mariners Branch Library • Library Foundation’s Summer Solstice Wednesday, June 12, 5 – 7 p.m. Friends Meeting Room, Central Library • Friends of the Library Used Book Sale Friday, June 7, 1 – 4 p.m. (Members Only) Saturday, June 8, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friends Meeting Room, Central Library • Board of Library Trustees Meeting Monday, June 17, 5 p.m. Council Chambers, Civic Center REBECCA LIGHTFOOT, LIBRARY SERVICES MANAGER Training Reference Librarian Rosemary Hammock attended the semi-annual Public Library Association Conference in Columbus, Ohio along with Children’s Librarian Jasmin Avila. They were able to attend conferences, see keynote speakers, talk to vendors, and network with librarians from all over the country. April’s live training featured guest speaker Sheri Laigle, the Director of Social Servies at HIAS, a Jewish Humanitarian organization committed to helping refugees and asylum seekers. Ms. Laigle discussed ways in which libraries could help patrons connect with much needed resources. Programming The April Sunday Musicale welcomed back Vieness Piano Duo. They were outstanding, received a standing ovation and obliged with an encore. There were 203 in attendance. The Library also hosted a Meet the Author event featuring New York Times Best Selling author, Douglas Brunt and his book, “The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel”. Mr. Brunt was engaging as he shared about his research, writing process and the life and contribution of Rudolf Diesel. He fielded many questions from our audience and was gracious to take his time to chat with each patron who wanted to speak to him and signed over 100 books. The event had 177 in attendance. Literacy Literacy has been processing prospective volunteers and learners into the program, communicating with volunteers regarding background checks, and conducting assessments for learners. Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot attended the Corona del Mar Residents’ Association Annual Town Hall to promote Project Adult Literacy. Several prospective tutors were given information on how to volunteer. 63 63 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 3 ANNIKA HELMUTH, BRANCH AND YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR National Library Week Every year in April, Youth Services recognizes National Library Week with a host of exciting special events and honorary guest readers at storytime. This year’s celebration was a notable one, with 14 distinguished guest readers including Mayor O’Neill; Mayor Pro-Tem Stapleton; Councilmembers Weigand, Kleiman, and Grant; Chair Watkins; Trustee Rief; City Manager Leung; Chief Boyles; Assistant City Manager Jurjis; Police Lieutenant Miller; Police Sergeant Oberon; Public Works Finance Manager Schweitzer; and Library Director Hartson. Special events included the launch of the Seed Library; the Butterfly Habitat arrival; Coding for Kids; Recycled Book Art; BARK: Read to a Dog; and a magic show. An impressive 1,078 participants attended events during the exceptional week. Youth Services is grateful for each guest reader generously sharing their time to support the Library throughout the week. A big thank you goes also to the Friends of the Library and the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation for their financial support. Branch Activities At the Corona del Mar Branch (CdM), BARK: Read to a Dog was one of several events celebrating National Library Week. Those who attended thoroughly enjoyed the quality time they got to spend with the two wonderful and friendly dogs. All attendees expressed their delight and hope to have the program return to the branch again. Also, in celebration of National Library Week, the Balboa Branch (Balboa) hosted a drop-in Recycled Book Art craft program. Participants enjoyed making crafts not only from recycled books but also from seashells and pinecones. In personnel news, Priscilla Johnson joined the branch as a part-time library clerk. At the Mariners Branch (Mariners), the new Seed Library was introduced with a special seed-planting program. Families were invited to start growing with seeds, soil, and containers provided at potting stations set up on the grass behind the branch. The event was well attended, and the Seed Library continues to generate interest. Also at Mariners, Magician California Joe performed on April 13, in celebration of National Library Week. He engaged the kids with plenty of humor and magic. Several kids volunteered to help with his show, and everyone had a great time, filling the room with laughter. California Joe promoted library use throughout the show where 71 people attended. A big thank you to the Friends of the Library for funding this event. Youth Services This year's Spring Reading Challenge concluded on April 30, encouraging children to read every day in March and April. Every 10 days that a participant read they were given an entry into the grand prize drawing. This year, we added Library-branded incentive prizes for reaching significant milestones. Patrons regularly ask staff about reading challenges for school-aged children outside of the summer reading program, and this challenge offers that while generating interest in summer reading. Special Programs On Tuesday, April 23, children’s author Rashin Kheiriyeh visited the Central Library for a Children’s Author Event. Author events often leave a lasting impression on children. They foster connections between children and the written word while inspiring creativity. The event included a reading of the author’s newest book Rumi: Poet of Joy and Love; a Q&A portion; a draw-along activity; and a book signing as well as several engaging poetry-based activities that participants enjoyed while they waited to meet the author. 64 64 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 4 On Monday, April 29, April’s Coding for Kids wrapped after five weeks of learning to code using Scratch. It was another very popular series with many participants attending the entire series of the classes, each building on the previous week’s skills. Participants ranged from ages 6 to 9, all with a variety of skill levels and coding experience. Class Visits Class visits typically shift to school visits in April as staff begin Summer Reading Program outreach at elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the community. Training CdM Branch Librarian Nadia Dallstream attended Presentation Skills & Public Speaking presented by Richard Marks from Government Training Academy. At the end of the month, Mariners Children’s Librarian Christine Chapel attended the California State Library’s Youth Services Summit. The two-day professional conference is tailored for youth and teen library workers throughout California. Teen Services On Saturday, April 20, Central Library hosted teens for another college preparation workshop, Admissions 101. The seminar, presented by Collegewise, discussed what college admissions committees look for and how they decide who gets in, including topics about grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities. Several parents commented on how much they enjoyed coming to the program and others like it. Outreach On Tuesday, April 2, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth and CdM Branch Librarian Dallstream attended the CdM Residents Association Annual Town Hall held at Sherman Library and Gardens. Positioned at a table near the front entrance, Library staff greeted people as they passed, and many stopped for information on library offerings; promotional items; and Library cards. On Monday, April 8, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth attended the Mayor’s Youth Council Mock Council Meeting where students assumed the roles of council and staff to discuss mock Consent Calendar items including a new aquatics facility and an item related to homelessness. The Mayor’s Youth Council is an unpaid internship for local high school students where participants are paired with City staff mentors to learn about local government operations. This is the second year Branch and Youth Coordinator Helmuth has served as a mentor in the program. On Friday, April 26, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth was an honored guest at the Harbor View Elementary morning flag deck presentation where Harbor View Associated Student Body (ASB) students presented a donation check to the Newport Beach Public Library. This is the second year in a row the Harbor View ASB has chosen to support the Library. ANDREW KACHATURIAN, CIRCULATION AND TECHNICAL PROCESSING COORDINATOR Staffing Part-time Library Clerk Raquel Villanueva resigned her position in April. Lucero Tamayo was hired as a Library Page at the Central Library. Three Library Pages are in the background process. Interviews are ongoing to fill the last remaining positions: two part-time Library Clerks and one Library Page. 65 65 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 5 Facilities The public elevator at the Central Library has been repaired and is available for use. New “additional parking” signage has been installed in the front lot at the Central Library to assist in guiding patrons to the parking structure and avoid congesting the front row of the parking lot. These metal signs are more durable and eye-catching. The City Public Works department has determined that there is serious corrosion on the fire sprinkler water line in the high ceiling at Mariners nearest the adult book collection and public computers. They are working to schedule drainage and repair as soon as possible to avoid a failure. This will necessitate the closing of Mariners during the length of the repairs as the work will require boom/scissor lifts, metal- cutting, drywall removal and repair, and much of the adult book collection and public computers will be inaccessible. Staff are prepared to offer curbside service for hold pickup on any affected days. 66 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 2025 13852 Alexander Street **********82 37 119 559 238 1035 Ancestry 976 937 881 451 789 91 183 296 290 168 5062 AskART 55 22 71 17 18 9 17 16 12 7 244 Brainfuse JobNow/VetNow 82 48 43 21 37 20 21 25 94 281 672 Britannica School Edition 23 4 126 613 50 357 49 23 103 395 1743 Exploring Race in Society 2 0 14 7 2 0 10 10 10 5 60 Gale Archives Unbound 1977 7446 1971 2410 7450 2190 3506 1318 1533 2409 32210 Gale Directory Library 17 2 0 77 9 17 5 52 33 10 222 Gale in Context: Biography 9 7 21 64 18 4 23 7 43 22 218 Gale in Context: Elementary 10 23 10 30 12 5 2 11 10 4 117 Gale in Context: Environmental ***12 21 1 8 6 2 0 50 Gale in Context: Opposing View 8 1 33 54 1078 76 129 68 27 34 1508 Gale Interactive: Science ***1 0 0 2 0 1 0 4 Gale Literature Resource Center 8 2 14 53 15 8 42 1306 1330 291 3069 Gale Virtual Reference Library 46 28 12 33 209 21 33 34 65 58 539 HeritageQuest 224 241 140 92 233 95 118 50 284 368 1845 Legal Information Ref Center 72 65 25 28 33 23 75 118 80 108 627 National Geographic 24 14 62 38 28 21 32 26 46 24 315 National Geographic Kids 23 13 45 53 21 3 17 20 28 14 237 NewsBank 1292 1211 1634 1190 1092 1084 1992 1250 1048 1350 13143 NoveList Plus 48 84 37 423 225 112 65 150 63 50 1257 NoveList K-8 Plus 22 44 22 72 36 0 8 24 14 8 250 ProQuest 2587 2605 2748 3262 3259 3073 5157 3937 3188 2696 32512 Proquest eLibrary 2 4 1 7 1 0 18 5 10 24 72 Reference Solutions Business 1883 614 389 481 337 159 202 445 470 530 5510 Reference Solutions Residential 91 32 34 866 19 156 14 17 30 25 1284 SIRS Discoverer 0 3 15 260 454 0 83 99 1620 921 3455 SIRS Issues Researcher 192 3 4 675 2331 1692 5034 6284 7920 6194 30329 World Book Online 4 8 99 225 49 6 11 261 22 13 698 Tracked by #page views Artist Works 4 3 3 1 6 5 3 4 8 3 40 Consumer Reports 3496 2508 2216 2099 3030 2099 3005 1826 1774 2051 24104 CultureGrams 26 45 22 224 30 34 32 22 11 52 498 Morningstar 5899 5543 3825 4267 4883 4093 3998 3894 3115 3239 42756 RealQuest 11 0 403 5 2 0 0 43 130 825 1419 Tumblebooks 12 24 16 89 19 13 5 27 10 5 220 Value Line 13295 11823 13609 15082 16193 12548 9703 11421 13572 132050 Tracked by courses LinkedIn Learning 349 190 200 235 162 151 264 185 191 200 2127 Tracked by books logged Beanstack 10374 4111 3584 3762 3903 1765 3535 2548 2720 2822 39124 Tracked by Hours Used ABC Mouse 27.68 30.40 18.77 20.53 25.83 43.01 56.18 52.95 19.83 13.42 308.60 Beanstack 4603 199 103 153 142 119 129 108.5 161 116 5834 Rosetta Stone 16.12 47.18 23.15 37.60 24.80 17.23 25.51 21.68 32.80 42.30 288.37 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 1425 1517 Newspapers--Current 656 1022 919 941 580 805 1578 1518 1077 956 1005 Newspapers--Historical 1966 3410 1962 2116 2144 2078 1914 1523 1922 1966 2100 Magazines 19 22 12 36 49 25 38 23 18 2 24 14804 67 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 23637 21707 217072 New Users 22806 22634 19381 19876 18796 18098 21385 20253 19617 19584 20243 202430 Sessions 44852 41809 38321 39420 36151 35900 43569 41485 40363 42232 40410 404102 Pageviews 97997 72390 67543 67569 62349 57142 74055 71726 70921 82803 72450 724495 Sessions Per User 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 -- Pages Per Session 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 -- Avg. Session Dur. (min)3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 4 3 -- Bounce Rate (%)54 58 56 58 57 60 58 58 57 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 240 157 342 257 478 206 503 594 165 152 309 3093 CdM 220 242 144 153 108 124 175 163 170 139 164 1637 Mariners 1710 1500 1660 1900 1830 2810 2380 2070 1890 1960 1971 19710 Central 11410 12170 12450 11900 10690 10040 11170 10640 11450 11090 11301 113010 Total 13580 14069 14596 14210 13106 13180 14228 13467 13675 13341 13745 137450 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 518 445 401 377 331 333 284 293 303 270 356 3555 CdM 470 449 392 409 330 322 321 329 375 335 373 3732 Mariners 1575 1578 1679 1789 1541 1279 1267 1209 1388 1288 1459 14593 Central 8775 9524 9451 9593 8811 8795 8136 7983 8929 8715 8871 88712 Total 11338 11996 11923 12168 11013 10729 10008 9814 10995 10608 11059 110592 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 27 34 338 CdM 30 30 26 25 21 21 22 23 25 20 24 243 Mariners 124 125 139 151 128 109 112 112 122 121 124 1243 Central 654 661 651 684 604 583 563 608 599 641 625 6248 Total 852 857 856 897 786 744 728 771 772 809 807 8072 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 558 576 941 9413 CdM 480 552 376 382 336 394 558 509 463 424 447 4473 Mariners 1110 999 1010 1090 1210 2250 1920 1750 1390 1560 1429 14289 Central 1330 1310 1350 1270 1240 1170 1410 1360 1310 1300 1305 13050 Total 3394 3222 3610 3440 4226 4446 5658 5649 3721 3860 4123 41225 6868 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 2,346 23,228 25,528 CdM 4,020 37,385 31,203 MARINERS 22,230 213,528 205,522 CENTRAL 49,824 521,656 557,203 eBooks 8,092 78,892 71,764 eMagazines 3,775 46,493 20,131 eAudiobooks 6,780 64,983 59,997 Streaming Films 3,177 24,966 7,274 TOTAL 100,244 1,011,131 978,622 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 APR 24 100,244 TOTAL 1,205,460 12 Month Comparison NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 CIRCULATION BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL eBooks eMagazines eAudiobooks Streaming Films 92,000 94,000 96,000 98,000 100,000 102,000 104,000 106,000 108,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 69 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 410 3,825 3,254 CdM 527 5,631 6,521 MARINERS 2,047 20,152 18,045 CENTRAL 6,720 65,015 60,805 TOTAL 9,704 94,623 88,625 12 Month Comparison 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 APR 24 9,704 TOTAL 114,240 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 REFERENCE BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 13,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 70 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 2,000 20,481 21,102 CdM 2,727 29,953 25,878 MARINERS 14,102 132,851 116,705 CENTRAL 37,499 362,759 353,465 TOTAL 56,328 546,044 517,150 12 Month Comparison 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 APR 24 56,328 TOTAL 652,189 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 PATRONS SERVED BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL 46,000 48,000 50,000 52,000 54,000 56,000 58,000 60,000 62,000 64,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 71 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 325 2,302 1,653 CdM 1,147 9,976 6,645 MARINERS 1,860 13,322 8,274 CENTRAL 6,300 60,690 45,938 TOTAL 9,632 86,290 62,510 12 Month Comparison 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 10,506 APR 24 9,632 TOTAL 102,073 PROGRAM ATTENDANCE NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 72 LIBRARY EXPENDITURES FY 2023-24 (May 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 2,475,225 245,713 681,112 SALARY PART-TIME 1,279,860 1,324,256 718,506 74,188 605,750 BENEFITS 2,247,901 2,371,705 1,858,852 180,554 512,853 SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL 6,684,098 6,852,299 5,052,584 500,455 1,799,715 II MAINT & OPERATION PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*207,488 207,488 182,393 34,819 25,095 UTILITIES 372,933 372,933 298,944 24,005 73,989 PROGRAMMING 2,000 5,800 2,816 32 2,984 SUPPLIES**82,800 84,186 70,362 7,853 13,825 LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 676,603 625,264 33,490 51,339 FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 250,275 260,864 173,630 18,720 87,235 TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 8,885 2,900 1,796 GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***24,202 25,920 22,111 3,178 3,809 PERIPHERALS & SOFTWARE 5,000 3,960 115 87 3,845 INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,693,396 1,693,396 1,411,164 141,116 282,233 OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 379 0 1,621 MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,320,516 3,343,833 2,796,062 266,199 547,771 LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL 10,004,613 10,196,132 7,848,646 766,653 2,347,486 *PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE **INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES ***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE 73 73 Previous Agenda Date AGENDA ITEM Scheduled Agenda Date Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 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 Apr 15, 2024 Apr 21, 2025 Apr 15, 2024 Apr 21, 2025 LAST REVIEWED POLICY REVIEW Jan 16, 2024 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy May 20, 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 Mar 18, 2024 NBPL 3 Library Gift and Donor Policy Mar 16, 2026 Information Technology Update Adult and Reference Services Update Branch Update - Balboa 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 - CDM Financial Report Comparison of Beginning Budget to End of the Year Amended Budget Literacy Program Update 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 Annual Budget - Preliminary Review Arts & Cultural Update Newport Beach Public Library eBranch, Database and Downloadable Services Review Performance Review of Library Services Director (Closed Session) 74 74 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 10 RECOMMENDATION: Review and discuss the Children’s Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee’s proposed amendments to Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy and provide direction to staff. DISCUSSION: At the November 11, 2023 Board of Library Trustees (Board) meeting, Chair Paul Watkins appointed Vice Chair Dorothy Larson and Trustee Antonella Castro to serve on the Children’s Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee. The ad hoc subcommittee was formed to determine whether a Children’s Collection Development Policy is necessary and, if the policy is needed whether it should be a separate policy or incorporated into the existing Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy. The Children’s Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee will present its recommendations to the Board for their review and discussion. 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: Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) - original ATTACHMENT B: Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) - redline ATTACHMENT C: Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) - revised 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: Children’s Collection Development Policy Review 75 75 1 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy The Library seeks to provide breadth and depth within the collection, various points of view, and differing formats. The Library endeavors to balance materials of permanent value with those of current interest. Materials are selected based on their content as a whole, not on selected excerpts. Race, nationality, or political, social, moral, or religious views of an author will not affect the selection of materials. 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. Responsibility of Selection Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Services Director (“Director”), who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board. The Director delegates the major responsibility of materials selection to the Librarians on staff. Guidelines for Materials Selection Collection Development is based on these specific criteria: •Community needs, interests and demands •Significance and compatibility of the work to the collection •Recommendations of reviews from professional journals or publications of national repute •Reputation and qualifications of the author, illustrator, publisher or producer •Availability of other information on the subject •Literary, artistic, historical, scientific or intellectual merit •Suitability of format •Author or creator already has popular works in the collection •Significance of the author’s work to the Newport Beach area •Suitability of subject and style to intended audience The importance or weight of each of these factors will vary from one acquisition to another, others may be considered, and materials for adults, teens and children will each be judged differently. Patrons making requests that items be added to the permanent collection will be referred to the “Suggest a Title” form located on the Library’s website. Suggestions from Library patrons are encouraged and receive serious consideration. ATTACHMENT A 76 76 2 Reciprocal Lending Many items which are not in the collection are available to Library patrons, through established interlibrary loan practices. Concurrently, the Library participates in universal borrowing, established by the California Library Services Act, Article 4, California Education Code Section 18731, which states, “A California public library may participate in universal borrowing. A public library participating in universal borrowing shall not exclude the residents of any jurisdiction maintaining a public library.” This allows Newport Beach Public Library patrons direct access to materials housed in other participating public libraries in Orange County and throughout the State of California. Patron Rights The Library believes that the use of library materials is an individual and private matter. Parents and caregivers have the primary responsibility to guide and direct the use of library materials by the minor children under their care and supervision. In support of the above principles, in general the Library endorses the Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement as adopted by the American Library Association Council. 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, Attachment I to this Policy. 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”). The Appeal Application and the Procedures are set forth in Attachment II to this Policy. Donations The Library only accepts materials in useable condition. All donations become the sole property of the Newport Beach Public Library upon receipt and cannot be returned. The Library reserves the right to decide whether donated items are added to the collection and to determine the conditions of display, storage and access. All donated materials added to the collection must meet the same collection criteria as purchased materials. Donated items not added to the collection are given to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library for sale in their bookstore. Proceeds from the Friends of the Library Bookstore directly benefit the Library. 77 77 3 Collection Maintenance The Library and the Director are continually evaluating the collection and, on their own initiative, may take actions with respect to the collection based on this Policy. 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. As materials become worn, damaged, or lost, replacement will be based on whether or not: •The item is still available •There is an ongoing demand or need •Another item or format might better serve the same purpose •Updated, newer, or revised materials would better replace a given item •Another library system could better provide the item or a comparable item in the future [Attachment I – Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources] [Attachment II – Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees and Procedures for Patron’s Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees] Adopted - October 22, 1990 Amended - October 28, 1991 Amended - January 24, 1994 Reassigned - April 8, 2003 Corrected (Att. II) – October 10, 2006 Revisions Approved – November 16, 2010 Amendments Approved by City Council – September 27, 2011 Amended – August 20, 2018 Formerly I-16 Amended – August 17, 2020 Amended – August 15, 2022 Amended – September 18, 2023 Amended – October 16, 2023 Amended – January 16, 2024 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 January 16, 2024. 78 78 1 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy The Library seeks to provide breadth and depth within the collection, various points of view, and differing formats. The Library endeavors to balance materials of permanent value with those of current interest. Materials are selected based on their content as a whole, not on selected excerpts. Race, nationality, or political, social, moral, or religious views of an author will not affect the selection of materials. Inclusion of an item in the Library’s collection does not mean the Library staff, Board of Library Trustees, or the City of Newport Beach endorses the contents, views, or objectives expressed in those items. 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. With respect to the Library’s children’s collection (the “Children’s Collection”), the desire of the Board and Library staff is to curate a Children’s Collection that serves the informational, educational, social, spiritual, and emotional learning needs, development, and recreational reading requirements appropriate for child patrons (children ages 0-12) within the City of Newport Beach. Responsibility of Selection Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Services Director (“Director”), who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board. The Director delegates the major responsibility of materials selection to the Librarians on staff. The responsibility for material selection for the Children’s Collection ultimately rests with the Director, however, it is the desire of the Board that there be a staff member appointed as the Children’s Collection Coordinator (the “Coordinator”), and the Coordinator is responsible for developing a proposed list of materials for procurement for the Children’s Collection (each a “Proposed List”) prior to acquiring any materials for the Children’s Collection. Each Proposed List will be provided to the Director for review and approval. Material that is on controversial topics must be read by the Director or Coordinator to determine whether or not they belong in the Children’s Collection and prior to being put into circulation. In addition to the Director’s objective professional opinion, and the criteria in this policy; the Director will also take into account independent book reviews (i.e. non-paid reviews), literary awards and patron demand and interest. Once the Director approves items on the Proposed List (the “Approved Materials”), the Coordinator may proceed with procuring such Approved Materials. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the term “controversial topics” or “sensitive materials” means material that addresses (either in written or illustrative form and distributed either ATTACHMENT B 79 79 2 electronically or in hard copy) the human anatomy, sexual relationships, and/or divisive social or political issues. Guidelines for Materials Selection Collection Development is based on these specific criteria: •Community needs, interests and demands •Significance and compatibility of the work to the collection •Recommendations of reviews from professional journals or publications of national repute •Reputation and qualifications of the author, illustrator, publisher or producer •Availability of other information on the subject •Literary, artistic, historical, scientific or intellectual merit •Suitability of format •Author or creator already has popular works in the collection •Significance of the author’s work to the Newport Beach area •Suitability of subject and style to intended audience The importance or weight of each of these factors will vary from one acquisition to another, others may be considered, and materials for adults, teens and children will each be judged differently. Additional guidelines for selection of children materials includes the following: •Subject matter is age appropriate •Illustrations (visual literacy) should be age appropriate and evaluated just like the written word. Moreover, children’s books containing sexually graphic, or violent pictures should be closely evaluated to determine whether there is a better alternative on the same subject matter absent such illustrations. •Consideration is given to the need, contribution, and suitability of the material with regard to the intellectual, social and spiritual development of children. •Take into consideration the varied interests, abilities and maturity levels of the children served. •The Children’s Collection should reflect diverse points of view and the materials purchased should create a balanced approach. For controversial topics, effort should be made to select material that is most age appropriate and the Coordinator along with the Director should review these materials prior to purchase or in the case of pre-purchase ordering once the material is received prior to placing it in circulation to determine whether or not it is consistent with the current Policy. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the determination of whether or not material is “age appropriate” will not be based solely on reading level (e.g. whether a third party review has determined it appropriate for grades 3rd -8th) since such a broad age range does not take into account the fact that children have reached varied social and emotional maturity levels at different stages, nor does it take into consideration whether there is an alternative work on the same subject matter that may be more consistent with this Policy. Patrons making requests that items be added to the permanent collection will be referred to the “Suggest a Title” form located on the Library’s website. Suggestions from Library patrons are encouraged and receive serious consideration. Third Party Vendors 80 80 3 There is a preference for independent vendors. Any third party vendor contracted with by the Library must be provided a copy of this Policy and contractually required to abide by the terms herein (meaning, this Policy will be attached to and incorporated into any contract for the provision of collection materials). Further, the Director will provide the Board with drafts of the staff’s request for proposals prior to them being sent out as well as copies of all responses. No binding contracts will be executed without the Board’s prior written approval of the vendor being contracted with and the terms and conditions contained in such agreement. Notwithstanding anything the contrary contained herein with respect to third party contracting, all contracts will comply with Newport Beach City Council’s Policy F-14. Library Displays: Programming0F 1 Displays located in the children’s section of any branch of the Library will follow the guidelines in this Policy. If the Director wants to deviate from this Policy they will first present any such proposed deviation to the Board for approval which approval may be withheld or given in the Board’s reasonable discretion. Programming for children will comply with this Policy, including but not limited to the summer reading program, any speakers featured in person or online, and online curriculum. Prizes In the event an individual or company provides the Library with product to handout or giveaway to Library patrons, including but not limited to items to serve as prizes; or the Library staff desires to procure items to be given out as prizes or giveaways, no member of the staff may provide such “free” materials to any patron until the Director has (i) confirmed such items comply with this Policy and (ii) provided notice to the Board of its intention to disburse or display such items. Reciprocal Lending Many items which are not in the collection are available to Library patrons, through established interlibrary loan practices. Concurrently, the Library participates in universal borrowing, established by the California Library Services Act, Article 4, California Education Code Section 18731, which states, “A California public library may participate in universal borrowing. A public library participating in universal borrowing shall not exclude the residents of any jurisdiction maintaining a public library.” This allows Newport Beach Public Library patrons direct access to materials housed in other participating public libraries in Orange County and throughout the State of California. Patron Rights The Library believes that the use of library materials is an individual and private matter. Parents and caregivers have the primary responsibility to guide and direct the use of library materials by the minor children under their care and supervision. In support of the above principles, in general the Library endorses the Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement as adopted by the American Library Association Council. 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, Attachment I to this Policy. 1 In the ad hoc committee’s meeting with the Director there was suggestion that a separate policy for displays and programming including the summer reading program be created. 81 81 4 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”). The Appeal Application and the Procedures are set forth in Attachment II to this Policy. The Board also has the right to call for review any material contained in the Library, and request the Director and/or any staff member to participate in its review. Donations The Library only accepts materials in useable condition. All donations become the sole property of the Newport Beach Public Library upon receipt and cannot be returned. The Library reserves the right to decide whether donated items are added to the collection and to determine the conditions of display, storage and access. All donated materials added to the collection must meet the same collection criteria as purchased materials. Donated items not added to the collection are given to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library for sale in their bookstore. Proceeds from the Friends of the Library Bookstore directly benefit the Library. Collection Maintenance The Library and the Director are continually evaluating the collection and, on their own initiative, may take actions with respect to the collection based on this Policy. 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. As materials become worn, damaged, or lost, replacement will be based on whether or not: •The item is still available •There is an ongoing demand or need •Another item or format might better serve the same purpose •Updated, newer, or revised materials would better replace a given item •Another library system could better provide the item or a comparable item in the future [Attachment I – Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources] [Attachment II – Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees and Procedures for Patron’s Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees] 82 82 5 Adopted - October 22, 1990 Amended - October 28, 1991 Amended - January 24, 1994 Reassigned - April 8, 2003 Corrected (Att. II) – October 10, 2006 Revisions Approved – November 16, 2010 Amendments Approved by City Council – September 27, 2011 Amended – August 20, 2018 Formerly I-16 Amended – August 17, 2020 Amended – August 15, 2022 Amended – September 18, 2023 Amended – October 16, 2023 Amended – January 16, 2024 Reviewed – May 20, 2024 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 January 16May 20, 2024. 83 83 1 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy The Library seeks to provide breadth and depth within the collection, various points of view, and differing formats. The Library endeavors to balance materials of permanent value with those of current interest. Materials are selected based on their content as a whole, not on selected excerpts. Race, nationality, or political, social, moral, or religious views of an author will not affect the selection of materials. Inclusion of an item in the Library’s collection does not mean the Library staff, Board of Library Trustees, or the City of Newport Beach endorses the contents, views, or objectives expressed in those items. 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. With respect to the Library’s children’s collection (the “Children’s Collection”), the desire of the Board and Library staff is to curate a Children’s Collection that serves the informational, educational, social, spiritual, and emotional learning needs, development, and recreational reading requirements appropriate for child patrons (children ages 0-12) within the City of Newport Beach. Responsibility of Selection Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Services Director (“Director”), who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Board. The Director delegates the major responsibility of materials selection to the Librarians on staff. The responsibility for material selection for the Children’s Collection ultimately rests with the Director, however, it is the desire of the Board that there be a staff member appointed as the Children’s Collection Coordinator (the “Coordinator”), and the Coordinator is responsible for developing a proposed list of materials for procurement for the Children’s Collection (each a “Proposed List”) prior to acquiring any materials for the Children’s Collection. Each Proposed List will be provided to the Director for review and approval. Material that is on controversial topics must be read by the Director or Coordinator to determine whether or not they belong in the Children’s Collection and prior to being put into circulation. In addition to the Director’s objective professional opinion, and the criteria in this policy; the Director will also take into account independent book reviews (i.e. non-paid reviews), literary awards and patron demand and interest. Once the Director approves items on the Proposed List (the “Approved Materials”), the Coordinator may proceed with procuring such Approved Materials. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the term “controversial topics” or “sensitive materials” means material that addresses (either in written or illustrative form and distributed either ATTACHMENT C 84 84 2 electronically or in hard copy) the human anatomy, sexual relationships, and/or divisive social or political issues. Guidelines for Materials Selection Collection Development is based on these specific criteria: • Community needs, interests and demands • Significance and compatibility of the work to the collection • Recommendations of reviews from professional journals or publications of national repute • Reputation and qualifications of the author, illustrator, publisher or producer • Availability of other information on the subject • Literary, artistic, historical, scientific or intellectual merit • Suitability of format • Author or creator already has popular works in the collection • Significance of the author’s work to the Newport Beach area • Suitability of subject and style to intended audience The importance or weight of each of these factors will vary from one acquisition to another, others may be considered, and materials for adults, teens and children will each be judged differently. Additional guidelines for selection of children materials includes the following: • Subject matter is age appropriate • Illustrations (visual literacy) should be age appropriate and evaluated just like the written word. Moreover, children’s books containing sexually graphic, or violent pictures should be closely evaluated to determine whether there is a better alternative on the same subject matter absent such illustrations. • Consideration is given to the need, contribution, and suitability of the material with regard to the intellectual, social and spiritual development of children. • Take into consideration the varied interests, abilities and maturity levels of the children served. • The Children’s Collection should reflect diverse points of view and the materials purchased should create a balanced approach. For controversial topics, effort should be made to select material that is most age appropriate and the Coordinator along with the Director should review these materials prior to purchase or in the case of pre-purchase ordering once the material is received prior to placing it in circulation to determine whether or not it is consistent with the current Policy. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the determination of whether or not material is “age appropriate” will not be based solely on reading level (e.g. whether a third party review has determined it appropriate for grades 3rd -8th) since such a broad age range does not take into account the fact that children have reached varied social and emotional maturity levels at different stages, nor does it take into consideration whether there is an alternative work on the same subject matter that may be more consistent with this Policy. Patrons making requests that items be added to the permanent collection will be referred to the “Suggest a Title” form located on the Library’s website. Suggestions from Library patrons are encouraged and receive serious consideration. Third Party Vendors There is a preference for independent vendors. Any third party vendor contracted with by the Library must be provided a copy of this Policy and contractually required to abide by the terms 85 85 3 herein (meaning, this Policy will be attached to and incorporated into any contract for the provision of collection materials). Further, the Director will provide the Board with drafts of the staff’s request for proposals prior to them being sent out as well as copies of all responses. No binding contracts will be executed without the Board’s prior written approval of the vendor being contracted with and the terms and conditions contained in such agreement. Notwithstanding anything the contrary contained herein with respect to third party contracting, all contracts will comply with Newport Beach City Council’s Policy F-14. Library Displays: Programming Displays located in the children’s section of any branch of the Library will follow the guidelines in this Policy. If the Director wants to deviate from this Policy they will first present any such proposed deviation to the Board for approval which approval may be withheld or given in the Board’s reasonable discretion. Programming for children will comply with this Policy, including but not limited to the summer reading program, any speakers featured in person or online, and online curriculum. Prizes In the event an individual or company provides the Library with product to handout or giveaway to Library patrons, including but not limited to items to serve as prizes; or the Library staff desires to procure items to be given out as prizes or giveaways, no member of the staff may provide such “free” materials to any patron until the Director has (i) confirmed such items comply with this Policy and (ii) provided notice to the Board of its intention to disburse or display such items. Reciprocal Lending Many items which are not in the collection are available to Library patrons, through established interlibrary loan practices. Concurrently, the Library participates in universal borrowing, established by the California Library Services Act, Article 4, California Education Code Section 18731, which states, “A California public library may participate in universal borrowing. A public library participating in universal borrowing shall not exclude the residents of any jurisdiction maintaining a public library.” This allows Newport Beach Public Library patrons direct access to materials housed in other participating public libraries in Orange County and throughout the State of California. Patron Rights The Library believes that the use of library materials is an individual and private matter. Parents and caregivers have the primary responsibility to guide and direct the use of library materials by the minor children under their care and supervision. In support of the above principles, in general the Library endorses the Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement as adopted by the American Library Association Council. 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, Attachment I to this Policy. 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 86 86 4 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”). The Appeal Application and the Procedures are set forth in Attachment II to this Policy. The Board also has the right to call for review any material contained in the Library, and request the Director and/or any staff member to participate in its review. Donations The Library only accepts materials in useable condition. All donations become the sole property of the Newport Beach Public Library upon receipt and cannot be returned. The Library reserves the right to decide whether donated items are added to the collection and to determine the conditions of display, storage and access. All donated materials added to the collection must meet the same collection criteria as purchased materials. Donated items not added to the collection are given to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library for sale in their bookstore. Proceeds from the Friends of the Library Bookstore directly benefit the Library. Collection Maintenance The Library and the Director are continually evaluating the collection and, on their own initiative, may take actions with respect to the collection based on this Policy. 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. As materials become worn, damaged, or lost, replacement will be based on whether or not: •The item is still available •There is an ongoing demand or need •Another item or format might better serve the same purpose •Updated, newer, or revised materials would better replace a given item •Another library system could better provide the item or a comparable item in the future [Attachment I – Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources] [Attachment II – Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees and Procedures for Patron’s Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees] Adopted - October 22, 1990 Amended - October 28, 1991 Amended - January 24, 1994 Reassigned - April 8, 2003 Corrected (Att. II) – October 10, 2006 87 87 5 Revisions Approved – November 16, 2010 Amendments Approved by City Council – September 27, 2011 Amended – August 20, 2018 Formerly I-16 Amended – August 17, 2020 Amended – August 15, 2022 Amended – September 18, 2023 Amended – October 16, 2023 Amended – January 16, 2024 Reviewed – May 20, 2024 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 May 20, 2024. 88 88 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 11 RECOMMENDATION: Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the FY 2024-25 operating budget for the Library. DISCUSSION: Section 708. Board of Library Trustees. Powers and Duties. There shall be a Board of Library Trustees consisting of five members which shall have the power and duty to: (c)Consider the annual budget for library purposes during the process of its preparation and make recommendations with respect thereto to the City Council and City Manager. In accordance with the above statement, staff has prepared the FY 2024-25 operating budget for the Library Services Department. The Library met with Assistant City Managers Seimone Jurjis and Tara Finnigan and Finance Budget Staff on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. The Library requested additional funding of $70,000 for new staff chairs for Central and Mariners. The chairs are original to each building (1994 and 2006, respectively). They have experienced considerable wear and tear. After review, the City found an alternative solution to providing the Library with newer chairs, so the budget request did not proceed forward. Staff also requested an additional $47,000 to support the Sculpture Exhibition and Cultural Arts Grants programs. However, at the February 2024 City Council Planning Session, City Council requested that the City Arts Commission reassess the Sculpture Exhibition program and recommend alternate means for future Sculpture Exhibition installations. As a result, funding in the Cultural Arts Division will remain unchanged except for a small adjustment in professional services. Due to contractual obligations with the employee work groups, personnel costs will increase in FY 2024- 25.In addition, the City’s Finance Department adjusted other budgets based on previous year’s spending and increased utilities costs. TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: FY 2024-25 Library Services Budget 89 89 FY 2024-25 Library Services Budget May 20, 2024 Page 2 2 of 2 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: FY 2024-25 City Manager Approved Budget 90 90 ATTACHMENT A PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2024-25 ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION FY 2024-25 CITY MANAGER APPROVED BUDGET FY 2023-24 ORIGINAL APPROPRIATION SALARY & BENEFITS SALARY FULL-TIME REGULAR 3,346,020 3,156,337 SALARY PART-TIME 1,419,780 1,279,860 BENEFITS 2,305,496 2,247,901 SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL****7,071,297 6,684,098 MAINT & OPERATION PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*215,453 207,488 UTILITIES 383,009 372,933 PROGRAMMING 2,000 2,000 SUPPLIES**82,800 82,800 LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 669,740 FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 209,698 209,698 TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***59,953 61,779 PERIPHERALS 5,000 5,000 INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,852,173 1,696,396 OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,492,508 3,320,515 LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL**** 10,563,804 10,004,613 *PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE **INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES ***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE ****SALARY & BENEFITS UNAVAILABLE AT TIME OF REPORT 1 90 91 ATTACHMENT A PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2024-25 ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION FY 2024-25 CITY MANAGER APPROVED BUDGET FY 2023-24 ORIGINAL APPROPRIATION CULTURAL ARTS PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 158,000 157,300 CITY GRANTS 30,000 30,000 PROGRAMMING 60,500 60,500 MAINTENANCE 4,248 4,248 GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES 2,340 2,340 CULTURAL ARTS BUDGET TOTAL 255,088 254,388 2 91 92 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 12 DISCUSSION: Marketing Specialist Maria Nicklin will provide the annual briefing on Library marketing and social media activities. 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: NBPL Marketing Overview TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Maria Nicklin, Marketing Specialist TITLE: Marketing and Social Networking Update 93 93 N B P L M A R K E T I N G O V E R V I E W ATTACHMENT A9494 GOALS M A R K E T I N G INCREASE awareness of library offerings FILL library events and programs REACH new audiences BUILD the NBPL brand EDUCATE the community on why libraries matter 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.9595 STRATEGY M A R K E T I N G The Library’s marketing strategy focuses on a combination of tactics working together to produce significant results. These tactics include digital marketing, media relations, printed collateral materials, purchased ads, email marketing, social media, digital signage, website banner ads/news, and more. The following page details those tactics along with a brief description of how each one works.9696 TACTICS M A R K E T I N G EMAIL MARKETING E-blasts are sent out strategically to a list of approximately 34,000. We are focusing on list segmentation to more effectively deliver our messages. MEDIA RELATIONS Media are continually pitched stories on Library events, news, programming, and the most checked out books of the week. ADS By placing ads in publications that closely align with our target audience, we are assured to reach a specific audience on a specific day. SOCIAL MEDIA We post to Instagram and Facebook with timing aimed to most effectively support our programs. DIGITAL SIGNAGE Digital signs are created to support Library programming; these signs are posted and seen in all four NBPL locations. WEBSITE BANNER ADS/HOME PAGE NEWS Banner ads and news items highlighting programs are included on the home page of the Library’s website and are linked for more information. BANNERS Large vinyl banners are designed, printed, and posted to five strategic, high- traffic locations around Newport Beach. RACK CARDS/BROCHURES Racks cards and brochures are designed, printed, and distributed to support a variety of programs and Library offerings. PRINTED POSTERS/FLYERS We design/print/post/distribute posters and flyers to support all Library activities/programs. OASIS We work closely with Oasis to get relevant Library news out to their audience, which is done through their eBlasts, and through posters, flyers, and rack cards on site. TARGETED OUTREACH We research and compile targeted lists to reach specific audiences including schools, and more. THE WEEK IN REVIEW We submit copy to The Week in Review, a City news bulletin reaching both City employees and the general public. SCREEN SAVERS We highlight Library events and programs on screen savers throughout all branches of the Newport Beach Public Library. NEWPORT NAVIGATOR The Library has several pages in Newport Navigator, a quarterly City magazine highlighting all Newport Beach programs, classes and activities. Printed distribution is 43,000 along with thousands more in digital distribution. 9797 STYLE GUIDE C O N S I S T E N C Y I N T H E N B P L B R A N D A few pages of a 20-page document providing NBPL design guidelines. The NBPL Style Guide helps to provide consistency in all of our marketing materials. BRAND N B P L B R A N D S W I T H I N A A few examples of the many brands within our NBPL brand. These are used for ongoing programs and effectively accomplish two main goals: 1) providing recognizable branding for our audiences, and 2) streamlining the marketing process. From the outside, a brand might seem like it's just made up of elements likefonts, logos and colors — but a brand is actually the entire identity ofa business. So why is branding important? Strong branding is yourorganization's personality. Effective branding providesrecognition. Our goal is to be immediately recognizable asNBPL. Branding supports marketing efforts. It helps us to fill rooms and informs our audience aboutlibrary offerings. A modern brand/voice helps us to underscore the relevance of NBPL today. NEWPO R T BEA CH PUBLIC L I B R A R Y E S T A B L I S H E D 1 9 2 0 THE LOOK S E T T I N G N B P L A P A R T T H R O U G H S T R O N G D E S I G N A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y The goal: words, images, and designs that motivate, inspire, and engage. BRANDING T H E I M P O R T A N C E O F 9898 SPECIAL DELIVERY C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: A recently-launched program, Special Delivery falls under concierge library services -- bringing the library to patrons who cannot make it to us. The response has been overwhelmingly positive and we look forward to growing the program. The demand is there and we will continue to refine the program to best fit our patron’s needs. 9999 WRITER’S WORKSHOP C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: The Writers Workshop is a follow up to the incredibly popular Storytellers series. It was created based on demand from patrons who wanted more in the writing space, and is an extension of the current Storytellers offerings. The Writer’s Workshop AT THE NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY The Storytellers Writing Workshops fill up within a day of being publicized. And the participants wanted more after the series ended. The Writer’s Workshop, launching fall of 2024, is the answer to that demand. It’s a weekly drop-in writing workshop facilitated by the same writer/author who teaches the Storyteller series. The Writer’s Workshop is a perfect example of the Library listening to the interests of its patrons. 100100 SEED LIBRARY C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: A new and unexpected program focusing on native southern California plant species and funded by the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. An ideal marketing opportunity showing that we’re not just books -- as well as tapping into a popular Newport Beach/community hobby: gardening. This ongoing program will help to provide a multitude of marketing opportunities and position the Library as forward thinking, beyond just books. 101101 MARKETING TO FAMILIES C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: Strategically getting the word out to moms (and dads and caregivers) is the most effective way to fill children’s programs. We’ve begun monthly kid program-specific eBlasts and children’s quarterly eight-panel roll folds. The email open rate on the children’s segmented list is consistently at about 68% -- extremely high. And th children’s roll folds are one of our most popular brochures. The parent audience is very interested in program information and getting the word out helps to keep our children’s programs consistently full -- a win for both families and the Library. A sample eBlast (left) and eight panel roll fold (above). 102102 0 50 100 150 200 250 2019 2022 2023 2024 SUNDAY MUSICALES C A S E S T U D Y Overview: A brief look at the growth in attendance at Sunday Musicales over the last few years -- from an average of 134 in 2019 to an average of 202 in 2024. Findings: Conclusion: The marketing/branding strategy that helped us to increase awareness/attendance is working, with steady growth over the last four years. Stay the course. (Note: the Friends Room max capacity is 200 and Musicale attendance has hit 240 in the past, with the Bamboo Courtyard utilized for overflow.)103103 NUMBERS E M A I L M A R K E T I N G O P E N R A T E 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 E-mail open rate growth from 2020 (at 15%) to today (at 50%). The industry standard is 20%.104104 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 2022 2023 2024 NUMBERS E M A I L S U B S C R I B E R S E-mail subscriber growth over the last year: from 29,890 one year ago, to 34,778 today.105105 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 2021 2022 2023 2024 NUMBERS S O C I A L M E D I A Growing our social media audience.106106 CHALLENGES O F L I B R A R I E S T O D A Y Relevance is one of the biggest issues facing libraries today. Unless addressed, libraries will continue to experience outdated perceptions, shrinking usership, and funding threats. Developing interesting programming and modern offerings is a big part of the solution. But if the community isn’t aware of the interesting programming and modern offerings, we fail to move the needle. That’s where effective marketing, communications, and branding comes in. I’m a one-person marketing department with more than 25 years of marketing experience in the corporate, agency, and nonprofit worlds --- and a deep love of books and libraries.107107 NEXT STEPS G O A L S F O R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5 Continue to refine the NBPL brand Identify, engage, and win over new audiences Continue to support the Library in all of its goals Identify measurable results Implement surveys to help keep a finger on the pulse of what the community is interested in 108108 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 13 OVERVIEW: The Newport Beach Public Library (Library) offers an annual Summer Reading Program (SRP) for children, teens (TSRP), and adults (ASRP). SRP is a community- and patron-focused program that spans several weeks during the summer. SRP is planned and prepared over several months and across several staff departments. The marketing campaign typically starts in early spring, with outreach to schools beginning shortly thereafter. SRP incorporates four primary components: reading challenges for all ages; free family events; marketing and outreach; and teen volunteers. Fiscal Impact SRP is generously funded by the Friends of the Library and the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. Their financial support covers all expenses for the program including performances; prizes; supplies; and marketing materials. Summer Reading Challenge For early learners, the goal of the Library's SRP reading challenge is to help promote early literacy skills, foster a love of reading, and support the foundations of school readiness through language and reading development. For students K-12, the goal is to enhance student reading skills over the summer break and avoid summer reading loss (also known as the "summer slide.") With SRP reading challenges, the Library aims to ensure students stay engaged throughout the summer; experience greater gains in their academic performance; and perform better academically. For adults, the program promotes family engagement and offers an opportunity to read for fun. The Library uses a variety of resources and tools to help in preparing materials for the SRP reading challenges. iRead Reading Programs SRP themes are picked by a nationwide collaborative, iRead Reading Programs (iRead). iRead is a flexible, nonprofit reading program designed by librarians featuring appealing incentives; compelling and adaptable themes; and, a comprehensive resource guide full of ideas and reproducibles. Each participating library receives this free resource guide, with other themed materials available for purchase. iRead is timely, cost-efficient, and a high-quality resource for Library staff as they plan and prepare for SRP. Several peer libraries in the county use iRead for theme and incentives. The Library adopted iRead themes in 2013, using them annually each year thereafter. This year’s theme is Read, Renew, Repeat. TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Annika Helmuth, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator TITLE: Summer Reading Program Update 109 109 Summer Reading Program Update May 20, 2024 Page 2 Beanstack Beanstack is the leading reader-tracking platform for schools and public libraries. It is available in both a web and app-based format. Their mission, purpose, and goals aim to help educators and librarians encourage reading by making it easy to create and promote reading challenges for their communities. Beanstack offers several tools to achieve this including a customizable interface with enterprise-level software, a highly rated mobile app, easy-to-use and customizable templates, a customizable data and insights dashboard, and continuous management of reader accounts, including seamless integration of off-line participants. Beanstack also integrates iRead challenge themes, art, designs, and resources. Beanstack is a valuable tool that streamlines summer reading programs. Beanstack is currently used by more than 10,000 public libraries and schools, with more than 13.8 million readers worldwide. Orange County Public Libraries in addition to several other peer libraries in the county also offer Beanstack for SRP reading challenges. The Library adopted Beanstack for reading challenges in 2021. The interface tools outlined above are integral to the success of the Library’s SRP, and most importantly, the accessibility of logging for patrons and the seamless integration of customizable templates, reports, and account management for staff. Since launching, over 5,000 Library patrons have registered on Beanstack, collectively logging over 150,000 books and over 1.5 million minutes of reading. Library staff use Beanstack for all three summer reading programs, meticulously drafting custom reading challenges to meet summer reading goals. Challenges in Beanstack are based on logging reading, completing activities, and earning digital badges. Badges within each SRP reading challenge are created by Library staff using iRead graphics. Children’s Summer Reading Challenge Children from babies through sixth grade may take part in Children’s SRP. Children may read on their own or have someone read to them. Children and their parents log minutes read, complete bonus activities, and write book reviews to earn prizes. A paper game sheet is available for those who prefer. Children complete the program upon reading 600 minutes. Teen Summer Reading Challenge Current or incoming 7th-12th graders can participate in TSRP. Participants register on Beanstack and then read at least three books to complete the program. Participants also have the choice of submitting book reviews for added participation. Staff offer off-line logging for teens who prefer it. Adult Summer Reading Challenge Adults are invited to take part in ASRP. Participants may register online with Beanstack. A paper option is also available for those who prefer it. Participants then begin logging every 20 minutes of reading. ASRP participants complete the program when they reach 600 minutes of reading. Prizes Logging in Beanstack allows participants to earn digital badges. Earning digital badges encourages readers to track and build reading habits. These badges also motivate readers to participate by highlighting their accomplishments. In addition to earning digital badges, the Library offers rewards and prizes that motivate Library patrons to read throughout the summer. These include prize books, small prizes, surprise rewards (like prize drawings), completion prizes, and public recognition. 110 110 Summer Reading Program Update May 20, 2024 Page 3 All participants are offered the opportunity to choose a new paperback book upon registration. Paperback books are selected and ordered by Library staff. At Central Library and Mariners Branch, children’s books are available in the Children’s Room with teen and adult books available in separate locations at the Reference Desk. At the Balboa and Corona del Mar branches, children’s, teen and adult books are available at the Reference Desk, separated by their designated program. Participants have their choice of any available paperback book in their program. The Library also offers an Opening Day Prize Drawing for child participants. Participating children who register on the first day of SRP are entered into a prize drawing for a chance to win a Summer Reading Fun goody bag. Children also earn a small toy prize for every 100 minutes read (up to 600 minutes.) Upon completion of all 600 minutes, child participants are entered into the Grand Prize Drawing for a chance to win a gift card to Fashion Island. New to this year’s SRP, all child participants who complete the program will also receive a completion prize and certificate. There are also weekly prize drawings for submitting book reviews (Children’s SRP and TSRP) and completing literacy- or literary-based activities (Children’s SRP.) Every book review submitted, or activity completed, is a chance for the participant to win a gift card to a local business. This year’s Children’s SRP gift card options include CdM Gelato, Jan’s Health Bar, Golden Spoon, See’s Candies, Jack’s Surfboards, Ruby’s Diner, Salt & Straw, Susie Cakes, Sprinkles, Barnes & Noble, and Target. For TSRP, gift card prizes are decided with input from the Young Adult Advisory Committee (YAAC.) This year, TSRP gift card prizes include movie tickets, Starbucks, Chipotle, and Salt & Straw. All teen participants who complete TSRP earn a goody bag and an entry into the Grand Prize Drawing for a chance to win a gift card to Fashion Island. ASRP participants have an opportunity to also win a gift card to Fashion Island. For every 100 minutes read, ASRP participants earn an entry ticket into the Grand Prize Drawing, with the chance to earn up to six entries. Summer Reading Events To enhance the summer reading experience and encourage patrons to visit throughout the summer, the Library offers free family activities and entertaining performances at all four library locations. This year, the Library is hosting 32 programs and 63 storytimes in celebration of SRP. For children and families, this includes opening day activities; a performance by POWERHOUSE!!!, a group of national recognized percussive dancers, an animal show with Doodlebugs, a dinosaur adventure puppet show, an interactive chemistry show, a magic show, and in-house hosted craft programs. This year’s craft themes are wildlife and habitat based: Desert Habitat Crafts; Under the Sea Crafts; and Forest Animal Crafts. Many of the SRP performers are selected during the Orange County Performer’s Showcase held in January each year. The showcase provides libraries with the opportunity to meet new and seasoned performers in the area and evaluate performers’ ability to enhance library services to local communities. No other comparable showcase exists in Southern California. Performance contracts are established shortly thereafter. For teens, a newly created Teen Summer Reading Book Club is planned. Meeting three times during the summer, Teen Summer Reading Book Club is an opportunity for teens to discuss what they have been reading lately, reflect on books they have loved in the past, and take part in bookish activities. Snacks are also provided during this fun literary event. 111 111 Summer Reading Program Update May 20, 2024 Page 4 For adults, participants who complete ASRP are invited to attend the ASRP Wrap Party. The ASRP Wrap Party offers an opportunity for participants to meet with other readers and discuss their favorite summer reads. It is an event full of book recommendations, added prize drawings, and community fun. Marketing and Outreach Marketing SRP is extensive and varied, with the goal of reaching all areas of the community through both print and digital media. The list of marketing materials for SRP includes bookmarks, Beanstack graphics, web page content, PeachJar digital flyers (for the Newport-Mesa school district), event brochures, paper game sheets, paper book review forms, banners (at each library location and a variety of community sites), website advertising, event posters, social media posting, and both print and digital press releases. Having ready-made yet customizable graphics and adaptable template layouts from both iRead and Beanstack save staff a considerable amount of time while also allowing for the incorporation of the Library’s brand. This results in a program that is recognizable and cohesive in personality and look. School Visits To help spread the word and get students excited about SRP, Youth Services staff visit local schools and present to students, parents, and teachers during special events and flag deck ceremonies. These visits begin in early Spring and continue through the end of the school year. This year, Library staff were invited to speak at several elementary, middle, and high schools in the area. These visits also allow Library staff an opportunity to connect with school librarians and library media technicians to learn how the Library can best meet the summer reading goals of their students. Many school staff express gratitude for the resources the Library provide and note how often they hear from their students that visit the Library regularly. At the end of the summer, local elementary schools are provided with a list of students who took part in the Children’s SRP reading challenge. These students are then celebrated and specially recognized for achieving their reading goals upon returning to school in the Fall. Teen Volunteers SRP also supports a robust teen volunteer program. Teen SRP volunteers help with Children’s SRP and are recruited starting in late Spring through volunteer orientations. After orientation, Teen SRP volunteers must also attend a thorough small group training with staff. During their training, the teens go through test scenarios to make sure they understand how to help participants with registration and prize redemption. The typical teen SRP volunteer will work a 2-3 hour shift the same time every week. Closing From planning to execution, SRP is a collaborative effort involving multiple departments and community organizations. With that in mind, Library staff are continuously evaluating and reimagining SRP to ensure community needs are being met. This comprehensive approach ensures we are meeting SRP goals and patron expectations, while maximizing impact and relevance within the community. 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). 112 112 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 14 OVERVIEW: The Newport Beach Public Library’s Media Lab opened to the public in November 2013 as part of the City Hall project and library expansion. The Media Lab equipment and software provide professional-grade services to meet the needs of the community. Staff continually looks for ways to improve the patrons’ experience by recommending new software and hardware and offering classes. MEDIA LAB: The Media Lab, which is comprised of computer workstations and the Sound Lab, provides specialized software and equipment. The age range of the primary users is 15-35 years old. The Media Lab introduces a segment of the population to public libraries that are generally less inclined to rely on library services. The use of the Media Lab resources is free, thanks to generous funding from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. This year, the Library, with help from City IT, was able to restore the popular vinyl and cassette digital converter station, purchasing new software and hardware. The microphone in the Sound Lab was replaced after the original started to fail. A new keyboard stand and bench were also added to the Sound Lab. Patrons have access to specialized software such as: Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Flash, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Audition, Final Cut Pro, iMovie, iPhoto, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Encore, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Contribute, Adobe Fireworks, Adobe Creative Cloud, AutoCAD, and Adobe InDesign. Patrons can use workstations to create a movie or comic, mix an album, edit film and video, build a website, and aid in graphic design. The Media Lab offers equipment and computer software designed to make digital copies of VHS tapes, audio cassettes, LPs, photos, slides, film (stills only), and negatives. Children’s staff offered a very popular Coding For Kids program in April and utilized the Media Lab to teach the classes. Literacy Services also utilized the space in March to train tutors on their new data gathering software, America Learns. TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: Media Lab Update 113 113 Media Lab Update May 20, 2024 Page 2 TECH TOYS: The Tech Toys collection of circulating equipment, launched in May 2016, continues to circulate well. The Library recently added some sound recording and lighting equipment for checkout. The digital camera was upgraded to a newer model. 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). 114 114 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 15 RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the new Balboa Branch Library as the site placement for the sculpture, A Novel Idea, by Craig Gray. DISCUSSION: A Novel Idea, by Craig Gray, is one of the works featured in Phase VII of the Newport Beach Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park. Newport Beach resident Nancy Gardner has acquired the piece and is offering it on permanent loan to the City of Newport Beach. The City Arts Commission approved the permanent loan of the sculpture at its April 11, 2024 meeting. At their May 9, 2024 meeting, the City Arts Commission approved to recommend that the sculpture be placed at the new Balboa Branch Library location. City Council approved a design concept layout for the new facility at its May 14, 2024 meeting. The approved design includes a Library Entry Plaza. The City Arts Commission recommends that A Novel Idea be installed in the Library Entry Plaza upon construction completion of the new facility. Staff have coordinated with the City’s Public Works Department to store the sculpture during the construction project. Storing the piece, rather than temporarily siting the work, will reduce costs and prevent risk of damage by decreasing the amount of times the sculpture must be disassembled, relocated, and assembled. Staff will present this recommendation to City Council for final approval. 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: A Novel Idea by Craig Gray ATTACHMENT B: Balboa Branch Library Design Concept TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: Approval of Site Placement for A Novel Idea by Craig Gray 115 115 ATTACHMENT A ARTIST NAME: CRAIG GRAY A Novel Idea Size: 5’ x 1’ 4” x 1’ 6” Medium: Granite Image: 116 116 BALBOA BRANCH LIBRARY—FLOORPLAN OPTION 1A ATTACHMENT B - Balboa Branch Library Design Concept117117 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 16 RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the acceptance of donations from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation and from Harbor View Elementary Associated Student Body. DISCUSSION: The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation fundraised for donations on behalf of the Newport Beach Public Library in order to pay for the popular Parks Pass program. Currently this program is funded through the California State Library, but staff anticipates the funding will not continue. The Foundation donated $10,000 to buy 50 passes so the Library can continue this program; $5,000 was donated by the public and $5,000 was a matching gift from the Foundation. Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees accept this donation. If accepted, the money will go into the Library Materials Budget to purchase new Park Passes when the state program ends. Each year, the students in the Harbor View Elementary Associated Student Body organize two candygram fundraisers for the school. Any funds raised over their targeted amount are then donated to an organization chosen by the students. This year, the group selected the Newport Beach Public Library to receive the donation. The students presented the Library with a check for $1,200. This gift will be used to augment the Library’s children’s collections. Staff recommends the acceptance of this donation by the Board of Library Trustees. If accepted, the donation will be allocated into Library Materials operating account. 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). TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: Acceptance of Donations 118 118 Page 1 of 3 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Library Lecture Hall (WITTE HALL) Monthly Project Status Report May 01, 2024 SCHEDULE The demo contractor completed the site hardscape demo for building and utility work. The site over-excavation was completed for the utility area. The underground plumbing subcontractor mobilized and started installation of sewer and storm drain onsite. Next month, the contractor will finish site underground utilities. Once all underground pipe have been installed the grading contractor will come back to the site to demo the existing utilities and OX building pad. Activity April May June Site Survey Hardscape Demo Clear & Grub Over-Excavation for utilities Underground Storm Drain Underground Water Underground Sewer Existing site lighting underground relocation Demo Existing UG utilities Over-Excavate the Building pad BUDGET • Contract Price: $19,068,000 • Change Orders to Date: $0 • Owner Contingency: $1,906,800 • Owner Contingency Remaining: $1,906,800 Progress Photos 119 119 Page 2 of 3 GRIFFIN’S FOCUSED TASKS FOR OCTOBER 120 120 Page 3 of 3 Griffin will continue to focus on the following: 1. Monitoring the project progress, manpower and all work activities. 2. Reviewing and analyzing the Contractor’s Monthly Schedule Update. 3. Reviewing and processing the Contractor’s monthly pay application. 4. Reviewing the contractor’s RFI’s and Submittals as well as ensuring timely and accurate responses for RFIs and Submittals’ reviews. 5. Coordinating with the design team on issues that arise in the field. 6. Reviewing, analyzing and negotiating the contractor’s change order proposals. 7. Managing the project’s budget and processing change orders within the allowed construction contingency. 8. Providing quality assurance for the work being conducted by the Contractor and its subcontractors. 9. Ensuring compliance with all safety regulations and identifying any potential hazards on-site. 10. Ensuring Contractor is maintaining BMP measures. 11. Verifying and tracking the Contractor’s procurement schedule, supply chain progress, subcontractors’ manpower, materials, and equipment availability. 12. Engaging with the project team for constructability and value engineering opportunities. 13. Identifying project Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) to maximize construction efficiencies and mitigate potential issues. 14. Highlighting awareness of Force Majeure contract clauses language & provisions 121 121 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: May 14, 2024 Re: Library Foundation Report 1.The Foundation’s six Spring Financial Literacy Workshops end on Monday, May 20. The programs have been very successful, attracting an average of 75 attendees. I have introduced the sessions at three other Orange County locales, and they have 10-15 attending. The Foundation markets these Financial Literacy Workshops aggressively, resulting in a large attendance and attracting people to the Library. 2.All four Witte Lecture weekends sold out both the Friday night and Saturday afternoon lectures. The 2025 season Witte Lectures will be announced in the June edition of Bookmark Magazine. 3.All four Library Live presentations were sold out this season. Library Live has two presentations in the Fall and two in the Spring. The 2024-2025 season of Library Live will be announced in the June Bookmark Magazine. 4.Due to speaker contractual agreements, the Witte Lectures and Library Live video recordings will be available only to Foundation members for 90 days. Foundation membership fulfills the contractual agreement for the video recordings to be behind a paywall. 5.Season passes for both Witte Lectures and Library Live go on sale July 1 for Foundation members. Over half of the house for both Witte and Library Live this past season were season passes. 6.All Medicine in Our Backyard and Spotlight on Science video recordings are always available for free on the Foundation’s website. 7.The Foundation presented 44 programs this past season, 32 of which were free to the public. Total attendance for all Foundation programs will exceed 5,500. 8.The new program this season, Spotlight on Science, had three presentations, highlighting groundbreaking research by UCI scientists. Next season there will be four presentations, two in the Fall and two in the Spring. The presenters will include UCI 122 122 2 scientists, but also other scientists from the region and nationally. James Bullock, UCI Dean of Physical Sciences, is the scientific advisor to the program. 9. The Book Discussion Group continues to grow in attendance, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The group averages over 40 attendees. 10. The Foundation has now raised $9.1 million in gifts and gift commitments toward its $12 million goal, which is 50% of the cost of the construction of Witte Hall. The Foundation deposited $7.1 million into an escrow account to initiate the construction of the Hall. a. Due to the Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Newport Beach, The Foundation will need to raise and deposit to the City the additional $2.9 million by the opening of the Hall. b. I have access to the construction camera and every two weeks I update the construction video on the Witte Hall webpage on our website. https://nbplf.foundation/witte-hall/ 11. The May Board Meeting of the Library Foundation was on Monday, May 13. The fiscal 2024 financials were reviewed. A new auditor was selected, Davis Farr, and the audit will begin on August 1. a. The Foundation posts its audit and IRS Form 990 on its website under About/Financial Responsibility. The Foundation has a Platinum rating from Candid for transparency and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator, its highest rating. b. The Foundation is funding the capital campaign—salaries, campaign advisors, printing, social media, events, from its own budget. This is a significant expense funded by Foundation contributors and will negatively impact the Foundation’s FY2024 expenses. 12. The Foundation is continuing to promote legacy giving to the Foundation. The Foundation established The Elizabeth and John Stahr Legacy Society to honor those who have left an Estate Gift to the Foundation and those who have stated the intent to provide one in the future. The goal of this campaign is to build the endowment to $5 million, assuring an annual contribution to the Library of over $200,000. 13. Library Giving Day was April 3, and the specific request was funding for the Library to purchase 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 next year due to its budget constraints. The Foundation contributed $10,000 to the Library to fund the purchase of 50 State Park Passes for 2025. 14. The Foundation anticipates a request from the Library for additional funding next month. 15. The Summer Solstice Celebration will be held on June 12 in the Courtyard and Friends Room. This event is for Library Leadership contributors ($1,000 plus), new members of the Foundation and those that have not contributed in the past ten years, Foundation Board and Library Trustees, Library staff leadership, and City officials. a. Jene Witte, founder of the Witte Lecture Series and its continuing supporter, will be honored at the event. A special fund for gifts in her honor will be established to support the Witte Lectures. b. Guest speakers will be wildfire photographer Stuart Palley in conversation with Clare Frank, the first female fire commander for CalFire and author of Burnt. 123 123 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 2 ABSTRACT: The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold or modify the Director’s Decision of “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn. 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” form for “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn, and the associated Director’s Decision resulted in “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” remaining in the children’s nonfiction 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 “It Feels Good to Be Yourself”. The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn 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 “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” by Theresa Thorn 6 ATTACHMENT A 7 (Cont. from page 1) at one time in the library. I know Mariner's parents have in fact emailed you, and two grandparents of Mariner's students have spoken to you at board meetings. They are not given the choice to tell their children what they can and can't view at the library. In Ms. Hartson's letter, she also states that the title in question "checks out often showing interest and demand." Again, as I have stated in my other appeals, and told to some of you, many parents (including myself} have checked this and other titles out numerous times, not because we or our children have interest in the book, but because we were so shocked it was on the shelf, and wanted to share with the community exactly what NBPL was providing to children. This book and others have made the rounds at community town halls, board meetings, political events, mommy and me groups, and churches. People have been disgusted with what they now know is on the shelves. Just because it has been checked out (by adults} doesn't mean that it is of high interest, or appropriate for children. Now, moving away from Ms. Hartson's reasons, allow me to touch on what the book actually says, to small children. Here are a few quotes: "Alex is BOTH A BOY AND A GIRL." "JJ is NEITHER A BOY NOR A GIRL." "See, when you were born, you couldn't tell people who you were or how you felt. They looked at you and made a guess." WHAT???? Remember, this book is for children ages 5-8. Factually, the books statements are incorrect (though this book is in the non-fiction section, meaning statements made are supposed to be real and true.) The doctors DO NOT make a guess when the baby comes out. We all understand this. There are boys and there are girls, and yes, the extremely tiny amount of the population that is born intersex, but that is not what this book is discussing. Do you think this book could possibly be confusing to most children? Te lling them that people made a guess if they were a boy or girl? Or that they can be both or neither? It is true that in today's society, some FEEL like they are something different, but that doesn't change what they ACTUALLY are. Might this perhaps be better on the parenting shelf in the adult section, if an adult wants to teach this to their child? With the current collection policy, which doesn't allow content to be looked at, and librarians and library staff that don't read the books to know what they say, isn't this starting to become an issue for the library? Blindly trusting politically captured publishers and review sites that seemingly only push left leaning content leads to books like these (plus the many more new ones that have been ordered and are "coming soon") replacing common sense basic biology that has been around for hundreds of years. It is foolish to blindly trust these review sites that give glowing, "starred" reviews to all of these types of books, but not to classical literature, and don't even review "conservative" titles. I urge you to question why this is. Every children's book ever published in the last 5 years that celebrates changing their gender is highly praised by these large companies, while a best selling series that teaches children the principles of economics and history (Tuttle Twins) receives nothing, no stars, no reviews, zero. I urge you to consider moving this title out of the children's section, and into the parenting section, or some other adult section. This is then not "banning" a book, but simply moving it. Thank you. 8 ATTACHMENT B 9 ATTACHMENT C 10 11 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 3 ABSTRACT: The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold or modify the Director’s Decision of “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee. 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 two “Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources” forms for “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee, and the associated Director’s Decision resulted in “Who Are You?” remaining in the children’s nonfiction 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 “Who Are You?”. The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin- Whedbee 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 “Who Are You?” by Brook Pessin-Whedbee 12 ATTACHMENT A 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 ATTACHMENT B 23 ATTACHMENT I·, PATRON'S REQUEST FOR EVALUATION 10F LIBRARY RESOURCES We appreciate your interest in the mater,alswhich have been selected for inclusion in the collection of the Newport Beach Public library. If you have a concern about a specific item, we would appreciate your assistance in addressing the matter. Please fill out this form and return it to the Site Manager, The staff will evaluate the material and forward a recommendation to the Library Services Director. Resources on which you were commenting: Book Audiovisual Resource Content of Library Program Other 111-C ATTACHMENT C 24 25 26 27 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 4 ABSTRACT: The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees determine and approve a final resolution to either uphold or modify the Director’s Decision of “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham. 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 four “Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources” forms for “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham, and the associated Director’s Decision resulted in “Not My Idea” remaining in the children’s nonfiction 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 “Not My Idea”. The Board will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham 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 “Not My Idea” by Anastasia Higginbotham 28 ATTACHMENT A 29 30 ATTACHMENT B 31 ATTACHMENT C 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Board of Library Trustees Civic Center Council Chambers 1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport Beach Meeting Minutes Monday, April 15, 2024 – 3:30 PM I.CALL MEETING TO ORDER – 3:30 PM Chair Paul Watkins called to order the regular meeting of the Newport Beach Board ofLibrary Trustees. II.ROLL CALL – Roll call by Administrative Support Specialist Francine Jacome. Trustees Present: Chair Paul Watkins, Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, Trustee AntonellaCastro, 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.CLOSED SESSION 1.Discuss the Library Services Director’s Appointment, Employment andEvaluation of Performance (Government Code § 54957). Chair Watkins called for public comments. Jim Mosher, Newport Beach resident, commented regarding the evaluation of the Library Director. He has experienced three Directors since attending the meetings in 2009. The Director has two roles, the first working downward in the hierarchy with staff members and advocating for the library upwards in the overall City Administration with commissioners, city managers and council members. His hope had been that the Director would be a little more visionary. Director Hartson is an excellent director, if he had to provide room for improvement it would be to work a little more in the upward direction advocating the library. Lori Johnstone, Newport Beach resident, spoke regarding the two books in question and she is against censoring any books in the public library. 42 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 2 Chair Watkins stated the Board of Trustees would be moving into Closed Session with Assistant City Manager Tara Finnigan to review the performance of the Director of Library Services for the past year. The Regular meeting would begin at approximately 4:30. IV. RECESS - 3:42 P.M. V. RECONVENE AT 4:30 P.M. FOR REGULAR MEETING VI. 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/Technical Processing Coordinator Erin Spivey, Adult Services Coordinator Staff Absent None VII. CLOSED SESSION REPORT Chair Watkins reported the Board met in Closed Session to review the past year’s performance of the Director of Library Services with the Assistant City Manager Tara Finnigan. VIII. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Trustee Chase Rief led the Pledge of Allegiance IX. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC - Waived X. PATRON APPEALS OF DIRECTOR’S DECISIONS Library Services Director Melissa Hartson introduced the Appeal Hearing. Chair Watkins provided the background history of when this process began, and the steps taken that brought the Board to this point for the two book decisions that are being appealed and explained the appeals process. He visited all of the branches to review the children’s section area of the library. The library defines the age range for the children’s section to be 0-6th grade. The teen section is 7th grade through 12th grade. He read both titles that are being appealed. He reviewed the Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2), including approximately 20 selection criteria included in the Policy. Included in the packet, beginning on page 77, is an outline of the selectors, their qualifications to be 43 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 3 selectors, and what they generate by way of opinions. There are over 243,000 collection materials in the three Newport Beach branches. There have been 140 emails regarding the books in the appeal, all of which have been read. The Board’s commitment is to keep an open mind regarding the appeals, to listen to both sides, offer input as Board members, and help craft a consensus/final resolution as per the Collection Development Policy. The Director’s decision was to retain each of the books in the children’s section. That decision has been appealed. Based upon the 20 criteria set forth in the Policy, the Board will either uphold or amend the Director’s decision for a final resolution for each title. Chair Watkins provided information regarding spectator rules. This is the first appeal, and the appellants were grandfathered in for the first book titled “Melissa”. Each appellant will be provided with three minutes to state their appeal. The order of speaking was according to the order in which the appeal was received by the Library. Members of the public were provided with two minutes each to speak during the public comment period during the meeting. 2. Appeal Hearing of “Melissa” by Alex Gino The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Melissa” by Alex Gino Chair Watkins called for the first appellant. Haley Jenkins cited specific text from the book and noted that the Collection Development Policy doesn’t define “age appropriate” but does say that material for each age group will be judged differently. Viewpoint discrimination cannot be an argument when there are over 100 children and teen books in the LBGTQ category in the catalog. She hoped the Board would choose wisely. Debra Klein spoke her appeal and cited the Director’s decision was based on a children’s collection policy that does not exist; therefore, the decision was made based on the general Collection Development Policy. The organizations chosen to use reviews during the Director’s decision are biased and have their own agenda. Brave Books hosted a storytime at the Central Library last year, yet their books are not allowed on the shelves. There should be a collection development policy for the children’s collection. Sydni Webb provided her appeal stating any book that contains information regarding the process of transition, how to remove internet browsing history, reference to pornography, references to looking up girl’s skirts in a school setting, and details on how a child would remove under garments, should not be found in the children’s section of a library. Ms. Webb read direct excerpts from the book and explained that if any of what she read was discussed in a work environment the person would be considered liable for sexual harassment. The policy states that material in the children section needs to be age appropriate, and parents and caregivers are responsible for the material their children read; however, two of the branches are open for elementary school use when parents and caregivers are not present. Director of Library Services Melissa Hartson provided information to support the original decision made for the book. Material for the library is selected based on their content as a whole. The children’s collection is intended through grade 6. The book was published by the largest distributer of children’s books in the world. Their suggested reader range is 8-12 years of age. The book has received favorable reviews from all of the major 44 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 4 professional review journals for children’s books. The reviews contain precise summaries that identify the book’s strengths and weaknesses and list the age per grade level suitability for books. Director Hartson provided the age suitability for “Melissa” per each resource review. The book received a number of acknowledgements for literary merit. California Department of Education includes the book in its recommended book list for middle school grades. It received the Read Aloud Book Award which has never been awarded to a young adult or teen fiction book chosen for this award, but only children’s titles. Accelerated Reader is used by elementary schools is a student reading and achievement assessment tool that established the book as a Level 5.0. The companion book “Rick” remains in the children’s section of the library after the Director’s Decision was provided in December 2023 and addresses the same themes as “Melissa” and is intended for readers aged 8 to 12. The book has been checked out 98 times showing an interest and demand for the title. Sixty of those transactions occurred prior to September 2023, when the library received the first patron’s request for evaluation of resources form. Due to the reasons stated, the book meets the conditions as established by the Collection Development Policy for the children’s fiction collection. Chair Watkins called for public comments and requested all comments be limited to two minutes and focused on the pros and cons of the appeal and not extraneous arguments. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in support of the decisions made by the library staff. Parents have the right to make their own decisions for their children, all children should be allowed to grow up without prejudice. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the decision made by the professional staff that work for the library. [Unidentified Speaker] quoted the author of “Melissa” from an interview and spoke against the decision made by the Director. Tom Courtney (Newport Beach) addressed concerns relating to the book and age appropriateness, in support of the Director’s decision. Foz Meadows (Irvine) provided information about the history of transgender, in support of the Director’s decision. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke regarding bans as it pertains to censorship and its use to protect children from danger that they are too young to recognize; and not applying those same principles to printed material, in opposition to the Director’s decision. Vien Nguyen (Newport Beach) spoke in advocacy of the Director’s decision stating the book is about gender identity and is appropriate for the library. Whitney Gomez spoke in favor of the Director’s decision citing that her 8-year-old read the book which prompted Ms. Gomez to also read the book, and it was the opening to an important and impactful conversation, and she highly recommended reading the book. Beverly Betcher spoke against the Director’s decision and was surprised at the references in the book regarding a male child’s body during puberty in the children’s section of the library and found the topic of the book inappropriate. 45 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 5 [Unidentified Speaker] spoke against the Director’s decision citing the library is funded by taxpayers, and they should have a say in what material is made available to their children. Cece spoke with her brother in favor of the Director’s decision as reading the book helped her understand her cousin’s transition from boy to girl. Pam Monroe spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision stating while looking for the book “Melissa” she ran across another book in the children’s section that was even more inappropriate in the library; all material should be G-rated. Chair Watkins stated the book referenced has also been appealed and is scheduled for a hearing later in the summer. Alex (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and about her own experience of being an avid child reader and all books she read led to other questions which is a natural process of learning. Julie Nance spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and found nothing in the book that represented age inappropriateness. Maggie Maser spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and stated as a law student the opposing side was singling out a few books about transgender and not all books regarding sexual education. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and spoke about the importance of the library being a source of education in a safe place. Thuy Vo Dang (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and how she found the public library a safe place to learn about inclusion and the importance of trusting the professionals to make the right choices in the library system. Francine Howard spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision, questioning the value of children’s innocence. It’s not a question of having the book available for families to read together rather a choice of making the book available to children without supervision. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision and believed the book is not developmentally appropriate for children and should be relocated to another section of the library. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and did not find anything inappropriate in the book. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and believes Newport Beach values should include tolerance, compassion, and empathy and the book should continue to be available for children who don’t have support anywhere else. 46 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 6 [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in opposition of the Director’s decision and about her professional experiences in child development and believes children are not developed enough emotionally to process that type of information. Karen Clark (Corona del Mar) spoke in support of the Director’s decision and found nothing sexual in the book and was unable to find any negative reviews of the book in google and 99% of the reviews on Amazon were positive. Cindy Parker (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the director’s Decision and as a physician did not find anything pornographic or sexual about the book. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and believed the issue is that parents are not understanding the concept of the book, not that the book is inappropriate. Mari Riley spoke in support of the Director’s decision and transgender representation is important. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and as a teacher has found the book helpful in many children’s lives who have struggled with their gender identity and bullying. Carol Hacker (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and did not find the book pornographic, rather supported children struggling with these issues and helped teach them how to communicate how they are feeling. [Unidentified Speaker] (Costa Mesa) spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision solely for the Mariners branch because the local elementary school uses that branch without parental supervision during school hours. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and provided information about personal experiences of needing books to help open communication about difficult life situations with children and couldn’t find what she needed because adults were uncomfortable with the information in the book. Sarah Stock spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision as teaching young children the process of transitioning is not appropriate. [Unidentified Speaker] (Costa Mesa) spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision. She did not find the book offensive but did not feel the book was age appropriate for the children’s section. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and did not see how the book would harm young readers. Carly Wilkenson (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and removing the book would violate freedom of speech and would violate the fundamental right for parents to parent in the fashion they choose appropriate. 47 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 7 [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and in banning “Melissa” there are many other books that would need to be banned under the same guidelines, including “Charlotte’s Web” and quoted excerpts. Banning books is teaching the next generation exclusiveness, not inclusiveness. Teesha Prudoux spoke in opposition of the Director’s decision and believed adult information should not be available in the children’s section of the library. Joni Nichols (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and stated relocating books sets a dangerous precedent, books that don’t align with people’s values is not a reason to set those books apart from others. Chair Watkins brought the discussion back to the Board and explained the Board’s professional experience for making the decision of final resolution, and he has respect for the library professionals who work in libraries. He provided his own history of visiting the library as a child and stated that moms and dads and caregivers are those responsible for what their children are exposed to. Reading to his grandchildren is an important part of his family’s lives. He reviewed the Collection Development Policy, including the suitability of the subject for the intended audience and that material for children may be judged differently than material for teens and adults. Chair Watkins is not a fan of book removal unless the title is clearly obscene or pornographic. He does not believe that “Melissa” is pornographic. The material in “Melissa” is a mature level subject matter, and based on the two policies previously cited, he believed that relocation of the book into the teen section of the Newport Beach Public Library branches would be appropriate. Other factors included in making his decision included the original request for evaluation, the Director’s decisions, the appeal forms, public input from the meeting, the presentations from the library and the appellants, and the review of the collection development policy. Emphasizing that the Board is subject to the Brown Act, and the Board has not discussed their personal views with each other, Chair Watkins requested other Trustee’s opinions. Secretary Lauren Kramer commented that it’s a public library, it is not necessary for her to agree with the content of material; if there is a desire of people to read the book it should be available for those interested. Freedom is an important concept; society has to make room for those that are different than what they believe. Material is not being forced on people; people choose what they want to read. She believed there were legitimate concerns with the material, but each person should be allowed to make the decision that’s best for them. Her only concern with the material is from a medical standpoint. When a child starts hormone therapy it stops the growth of the organs that allow a person to conceive a child. Elementary age children are not emotionally mature enough to make a choice that would permanently alter their ability to have children as adults. She leaned in the direction of upholding the Director’s decision. Trustee Antonella Castro appreciated everyone sharing their perspective and explained the book is an important resource to have available in the library, and gender identity is a very complex subject and should not necessarily be something a child should learn about without a conversation with an adult. She leaned towards the decision of the Chair to have the book relocated to the teen section for availability for the young adults and families who find the book beneficial. It’s a well written book about a very complex topic. 48 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 8 Vice Chair Dorothy Larson believed children are underestimated in that adults believe they are not ready to be exposed to a particular point and view when they actually already have been exposed through friends and the internet. The library is a place where you can control what children are exposed to and it’s important for children to pick out their own books. It’s apparent by the public comments provided at this meeting that two different people can read material and come away with two very different perspectives on the subject of that material. Some of those perspectives seem jaded; children do not become transgender or gay by reading a book, they become informed about such life issues. A friend communicated that this book could be lifesaving to a child that finds it on their own and whose parents don’t have knowledge of what their child was going through. Children who transition do not know what transgender is, all they know is they are uncomfortable in their own bodies. It is the parents’ responsibility to know when a child has visited the library and can ask what they read and answer any questions the child may have. It would be extremely inappropriate to undermine and usurp our librarians’ authority by putting this book anywhere other than where it is. It’s potentially lifesaving. Trustee Chase Rief stated he’s been thinking about this for several months and appreciated all of the comments. He has two elementary age children who visit the library weekly, and he doesn’t always know everything they review and check out. The hormone therapy information concerns him from a permanent unintended consequences standpoint. He does not believe in banning books completely. Relocating the book still allows parents to introduce the subject and open discussions with their children if they choose. Chair Watkins summarized the Boards opinions, noting three in favor of relocation and two who feel the book should be left where it is and requested a motion. Motion made by Trustee Castro, seconded by Trustee Chase Rief, and carried (3-2-0-0) in favor of relocating the book “Melissa” to the teen section of the Newport Beach Library branches. AYES: Watkins, Castro, Rief NOES: Larson, Kramer ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: Chair Watkins called for a five-minute break to allow anyone to leave if they would like. The Board of Library Trustees resumed with all members present. 3. Appeal Hearing of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack The Board of Library Trustees will conduct an appeal hearing for the Director’s Decision of “Prince & Knight” by Daniel Haack. Chair Watkins opened the appeal for “Prince & Knight” and called for the appellant Bill Dunlap to present his appeal. Mr. Bill Dunlap stated that those opposing the Director’s decisions are not about banning books. The education of children should not be about how fast they can make them 49 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 9 adults, but how they share the joy of learning throughout the rest of their lives. The subject matters should be incremental as their age increases. The appeal request for “Prince & Knight” is not about banning books but relocating it into another area of the library, and the appropriateness of subject matter for children ages 4 to 8. Parents should make the determination of what is appropriate for children of such young ages. The book does not comply with the Early Childhood Development Index. The Mariners branch is open to elementary aged children ages 4-8 without parental supervision, the book should not be in the Children’s section of the library. The resources used to make the original determination are organizations that get paid by publishers of the book and are located in other areas of the country that do not necessarily reflect the local standards of Newport Beach. Director of Library Services Melissa Hartson provided information regarding the author’s intention of the book and the resources used in making the original determination and the transaction history of the book. It is a modern-day fairy tale that is a children’s picture book. The short phrases are set forth in rhyme which is often a characteristic of children’s picture books. The picture book collection is located in the children’s room which is separate from the school’s library. Children who attend Mariners Elementary School do not have access to that picture book collection. Twenty-one other libraries in the county have the book “Prince & Knight” in their collection and in their children’s picture book collection. Library Services Director Hartson reported publisher information, age appropriateness, and professional review information which provided both strengths and weaknesses of the book. It was found suitable for ages 4-8. Chair Watkins opened the appeal to public comments. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and trusts the librarians knowledge and professionalism for making the decision. Foz Meadows (Irvine) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and stated inappropriate judgment of the book is a smokescreen to saying “queerness” is a danger to children. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and explained she has several members of her church who grew up being forced to read only heterosexual material and it didn’t make them straight. Annie Vangrow (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision stating that trained Librarians should be trusted to select material based on their professional education. Vien Nguyen (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and appreciated the comments from Vice Chair Larson and Trustee Kramer regarding freedom rights and how children are often underestimated. The subject matter in “Prince & Knight” is far less complicated and should be allowed to stay in the children’s section of the library. Sydni Webb (Newport Beach) spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision stating the book is not appropriate for 4- to 8-year-old children. The book is a complex subject that should not be pushed on children. 50 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 10 Janet Hadley (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and read part of the Newport Beach Library’s Children in the Library Policy regarding children under the age of 12. Francine Howard spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision since the library becomes a school library for part of the school week when parents are not available to monitor their children’s activities. Lori Johnstone (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and appreciated Vice Chair Larson’s comments regarding “Melissa”, the concept of age appropriateness is a subjective decision. [Unidentified Speaker] (Newport Beach) spoke in disagreement of the appeal for the book and understands how difficult the decision process must be. Andra Broekelschen (Newport Beach) spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and is highly disappointed in the decision to remove any book from any section of the library. Cindy Parker spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and requested the Board not vote to pull the book; it is a wonderful love story. Tom Courtney spoke in favor of the Director’s decision and commented that the book is a sweet story and was surprised at the amount of time put into the appeal of the two books. It is not the best way to handle these types of issues. [Unidentified Speaker] spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision, all of the public comments represent a diversity of opinions, however, finds the book inappropriate. Debra Klein spoke in opposition to the Director’s decision based on the Mariners branch being used as a school library during the week. Joy Brenner (Newport Beach) thanked the Board for their work and spoke in favor of the Director’s judgment. She read the material and found the book age appropriate for the children’s section. Joni Nichols (Newport Beach) read a poem depicting the beliefs of inclusiveness and spoke in favor of the Director’s decision, as a midwife she now would like to give the book to every woman after having birth. Chair Watkins commented that it is a picture book that is relatively innocent and it’s sweet and the age of 4-8 is somewhat of a close call in terms of appropriateness and was inclined to uphold the Director’s decision. Trustee Rief commented that he read the book and there was no sexual content in the book, therefore would vote to uphold the Director’s decision. Vice Chair Larson believed that appellant mistakenly thought the book was available in the school library section of the Mariners branch and that is not the case according to library staff and would vote to uphold the Director’s decision. 51 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 11 Secretary Kramer thanked everyone who provided comments during this process. Newport Beach is an incredible city with different viewpoints and believes all library material should be publicly accessible and her decision would be to uphold the Director’s decision. Trustee Castro commented she agreed with the Director’s decision that was made based on the Collection Development Policy. Motion made by Trustee Castro, seconded by Trustee Chase Rief, and carried (5-0-0-0) in favor of upholding the Director’s Decision to keep the book “Prince & Knight” in the children’s section. AYES: Watkins, Castro, Rief, Larson, Kramer NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: XI. 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. 4. Minutes of the March 18, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting Chair Watkins noted Mr. Mosher’s changes to the minutes in the email included in the Agenda Packet and Chair found all the corrections acceptable. 5. Patron Comments Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests received from patrons. Chair Watkins noted Circulation and Technical Processing Coordinator Andy Kachaturian exhibited good practice and manners when responding to a patron’s regarding the elevators, restrooms and bistro café. 6. Library Activities Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics. 7. Expenditure Status Report Monthly expenditure status of the library’s operating expenses, services, salaries, and benefits by department. Chair Watkins reported they are 75% through the Fiscal Year (FY) and they are through 69.5% of expenditures and a little under 5% under budget. 8. Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List 52 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 12 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 Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, seconded by Secretary Lauren Kramer, and carried (5-0-0-0) to approve the Consent Calendar Items 1-8 with the minor changes to the March 18, 2024 draft minutes. AYES: Watkins, Kramer, Larson, Castro, Rief NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: XII. CURRENT BUSINESS A. Items for Review 9. Library Materials Selection Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey will provide an overview of materials selection. Chair Watkins commended Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey for the outstanding description of her selectors of how choices are made in the collections area. There are 243,000 items in the Library collection. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey reported on the Library materials selection process, explained the collection objectives, the goal of the Newport Beach Public Library as stated under the Objectives of Library Policy NBPL 2, the tools used for the selection process and the education of the individuals involved in making the selections, and the process by which the selections are made. Additionally, should any patrons have concerns regarding an item that has been selected, they may refer to the Collection Development Policy and submit a request for evaluation. Selection for weeding through or retiring material is based on condition of the material, demand of usage by patrons, and the meaning and process of Continuous Review Evaluation and Weeding (CREW). Adult Services Coordinator Spivey’s full report can be found in the Agenda packet for the meeting. Secretary Lauren Kramer questioned what they do to ensure they have a balanced collection. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey responded that the resources they use are from professional librarians or associated with publishing and writing. They also rely on Common Sense Media, which has staff that include teachers and librarians, in addition to community use and history of demand for the material. They are required by education to examine the bias of the material to ensure material is in place regardless of their personal opinions. Trustee Rief appreciated the update and inquired if staff selects every book that comes in or is there a service they subscribe to. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey answered they choose every title. The service they subscribe to provides recommendations. 53 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 13 Vice Chair Larson thanked Adult Services Coordinator Spivey for the report and the detailed information. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments. Jim Mosher (Newport Beach resident) commented that regardless of the demand for material, staff is limited by their budget for acquiring new material and was interested in the percentage of material they are able to turn over each year and if staff believed the library would be better if there was more turnover of items, how much turnover would be ideal, and how long a book sits idle prior to being turned over, and if material is put on display so patrons are aware it is about to be turned over. Adult Services Coordinator Spivey, at the request of Chair Watkins, responded to Mr. Mosher stating that she was unaware of the percentage of material that is new each year but would look into it for him. They do feature books that are in low demand in a variety of displays in order to help get them in circulation. Haley Jenkins commented and thanked Adult Services Coordinator Spivey for the report and Secretary Kramer for asking how they determine a balance. She has found in recent years it is hard to find a balance of conservative material for adults and children in the libraries and has had to resort to ordering them online. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 10. Lecture Hall Update Report on activities related to the Library Lecture Hall project. Library Services Director Hartson reported construction has begun, they can feel the earth move and hear the noises. Pictures were included in the packet for the Board. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 11. Balboa Branch Replacement Update Report on the activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project. Chair Watkins stated the ad hoc subcommittee had nothing to report and opened the item up for public comment. Chair Watkins received and filed the non-report. 12. Library Services Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons, and staff. Library Services Director Hartson reported the new library app is available and ready for downloading and is available for Android and Apple devices. Trustee Castro inquired how the app is being advertised. Library Services Director Hartson explained they sent out an eblast that included information and links to download, it’s on the City’s website, and there’s a banner advertisement. Trustee Castro suggested seeing if they can put it out on the City’s Instagram account. 54 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 14 Chair Watkins opened the item for public comment. Hearing none he received and filed the report. B. Monthly Reports 13. Library Foundation Liaison Reports A. Library Foundation Board Report on the most recently attended meeting. Chair Watkins stated that Jerry Kappel’s (Library Foundation CEO) Foundation update was excellent and included in the packet. There have been sell outs for both Library Live and Witte Lectures. His report provides great information on both the Library Foundation Board and the Library Live Lecture committee which Chair Watkins attended the Foundation Board meeting on April 8. Vice Chair Larson commented that she’s looking forward to the new Lecture Hall, every program in both series has sold out. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Library Live Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting. 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. 14. Friends of the Library Liaison Report Trustee update on the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting. Trustee Rief reported there will be a used cookbook sale coming soon. The Friends of the Library received 300 boxes of cookbooks donated from one patron. It would be worth an eblast. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 15. Pals4pal Liaison Report Trustee update of the Pals4pal Board meeting. Trustee Castro reported she attended the recent Board meeting in which they focused on taxes and administrative items. Literacy Coordinator Gabriela Leman had sent a request that was approved for the program, resulting in a couple of tutors attending a literacy conference. 55 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 15 Chair Watkins received and filed the report. XIII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS – Two Minutes per speaker Wendy Leece commented in appreciation to the Board for their due diligence on the appeal hearing items and spoke regarding mending fences and bridging the gaps between the opposing sides and the importance of being respectful during the process of material evaluations and inquired if the City or the Newport-Mesa Unified School District purchases materials used for the school section of the Mariners branch. Ms. Leece encouraged use of additional local companies for material review. Library Services Director Hartson stated that the Newport Beach Public Library purchases the books for the public library which includes the elementary school library section. There is a mechanism between the City and the District that if the District would like to add to the collection, they must go through the Library’s process to add. If the District requests material be removed from the collection, the Library adheres to that request per the agreement. Dianne Wells inquired if the Trustees had considered amending the Board of Library Trustees by-laws. The last time they were amended was May 19, 2014, and provided examples of outdated information and requested including parents and community members in the review and selection process of acquiring material for the Children’s Collection; and Ms. Wells proposed a wide range of book review sources to be used for material reviews. Jim Mosher complimented the staff and the Foundation on the launch of the seed library at the Mariners branch and suggested there may be opportunities outside the branch to plant seeds under the oak trees as a demonstration for people of the seed collection, particularly showing off the native plants which grow. 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) Secretary Kramer commended the new Seed Library at the Mariners branch and requested they add a review/approval item for the Summer Reading Program on the May agenda; additionally, an ad hoc subcommittee could be useful if started in July to review potential savings for the FY2025-26 budget and volunteered to serve on the committee. Trustee Rief stated he would if Vice Chair Larson declined. Vice Chair Larson agreed to serve on the ad hoc subcommittee currently but reserved the right to step away and let Trustee Rief serve. Director of Library Services Hartson responded they have already begun visiting the schools to advertise for the Summer Reading Program (SRP), she will be happy to provide an update at the May meeting. They start working on the SRP for the next year after the program ends. Everything is already in place for the 2024 SRP. The performance programs have already been booked since January. Chair Watkins suggested a report would help provide ideas for the 2025 SRP. 56 Board of Library Trustees Meeting April 15, 2024 Page 16 Vice Chair Larson asked if there is a list already established for the SRP. Trustee Rief stated this is a non-discussion item and solely for the purpose of adding items to the agenda. Secretary Kramer requested the item be an approval item, not just an update. Trustee Castro hoped the Board would have some discretion of what items are made available for the SRP, and requested the update include if parents are allowed to opt out of certain books if desired. Trustee Rief reported his storytime experience for National Library Week was a great event. He invited other Trustees to also participate in the future, if possible. Chair Watkins requested there be a closed session prior to the regular May meeting to provide Library Services Director Hartson the results of her review. There are six books remaining for appeal: It Feels Good to be Yourself, Who Are You, Not My Idea, It’s Perfectly Normal, What is White Privilege, Alice Austin Lived Here. He would like to split them three on the May Agenda and three on the June Agenda. They will be chosen based on when the appeal request was received. XV. ADJOURNMENT – 7:45 P.M. The next meeting will be held in the Chambers on May 20, 2024 with the start time to be announced. 57 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 1 04/04/2024 Email Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/04/2024 2 04/04/2024 Email Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/04/2024 3 04/07/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/08/2024 4 04/09/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/09/2024 5 04/12/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/12/2024 Where do I go online to renew the two books I have that are due in three days, or will you auto renew and if so, how will I know you did? You may renew books online by visiting our catalog at ... In the upper right hand corner, click on “log in” and enter your barcode and password. Under “My Account”, click on “Checkouts”. You can select each item by clicking on the box on the left, or clicking “select all” and then “renew” ... Or, our system will try to automatically renew your items on the due date. You will receive an email letting you know if the renewals were successful and what your new due date is, or if the renewals were not successful and need to be returned. I hope that helps! If you need additional assistance, you can call our renewal line at 949-717-3837. Thank you. I am a retired California civil and structural engineer. I have about 90 text and reference books that I would like to donate. Do you accept these donations? Thanks. 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. I am under 13 years old and was hoping that you have volunteering opportunities for 12 year olds. Thank you for your time. Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the Newport Beach Public Library. We offer a variety of volunteer positions for students in seventh through twelfth grade and ages 12 to 18 years old. To apply, please compete the online application. A link to the online application is available on our website ... Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have further questions about available teen volunteering, I welcome you to email teenservices@newportbeachca.gov. Please note that parents have noticed how extremely dirty your carpet play area is which should require your IMMEDIATE attention. Children are playing on the filthiest carpet surfaces we have ever seen since 2019. As frequent visitors, we have never seen the carpet SO DIRTY before! Please take due diligence to have the carpet shampooed as this is a BREEDING GROUND for viruses and major bacterial contaminations. The toys were also extremely dirty which reflects a dirty play environment in general. Please take note as parents are now less interested in visiting your branch. I will be addressing this to management as well. Best wishes. Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We strive to provide a clean environment and are always looking for ways to improve our services. The children’s play areas undergo a large volume of daily use and are cleaned regularly. I will work with management to inspect the children’s play areas at each location to ensure cleaning standards are being met. Again, thank you for your email and we hope that we can exceed your expectations on your next visit. I am a new author. Is there someone I can talk to about a book launch? My book is suitable for anyone from age 8 to 80. Is there someone I can talk to about this? Thank you for reaching out to us. Is this book already published? If so, could you share the title and a little bit about it so I can determine the correct staff member for you to speak to? If you are looking to get your book published, the library has resources on how to write query letters as well as lists of agents. I’d be happy to put some materials on hold for you to pick up at your preferred location. Thank you.58 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 6 04/13/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/15/2024 7 04/13/2024 Email Francine Jacome Administrative Support Specialist 04/15/2024 8 04/14/2024 Email Andy Kachaturian Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator 04/15/2024 9 04/15/2024 Comment Card Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/15/2024 10 04/15/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/15/2024 I am a library member. I am working on a video for friends and family. I am trying to find some place to record narration for my video/slide show. I thought that the media lab had a sound booth. Q: How can I gain access to the sound booth, and do you provide basic training on using the equipment? I am tech friendly, and a quick study. I just need to record narration/voice over for my project. Thanks. Yes, you can make a reservation to use our Sound Lab. The link and instructions can be found on our website, or you can call the reference desk at 949-717-3800, option 2, and we would be happy to assist you in booking a time ... There are some tutorials online for using the Sound Lab and the equipment. Staff can certainly help you get started ... I hope that helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you. On Saturday 4/13 afternoon, I went to the La Bella Musica concert. They announced two more concerts are scheduled. Please send me the dates in May or June. Thank you. I believe you are trying to reach the Newport Public Library in Rhode Island. I see on their website that they had La Bella Musica on Saturday. We are actually in Newport Beach, California. Their website can be found here ... And their contact information is here ... I’m sure they will be able to answer your questions. Thank you. Beautiful facility and extremely helpful librarians. My teen daughters (and I) didn't feel safe walking into the library here (NB Main library) due to the four homeless people surrounding our car this evening. Furthermore, I use your Test Proctoring services at the Marigold branch frequently, and it was disruptive to my teen daughters having a smelly homeless man sitting next to them while they were taking a three-hour Math Final Exam. Our Homeless Task Force works to place these people in homeless shelters, but some of them want to stay on the streets so they can use drugs. I'm fed up! Annika called to thank the patron for taking the time to share her feedback, and she reiterated that we take safety concerns very seriously. She encouraged the patron to call the police if she ever feels unsafe. Annika also spoke to the patron regarding her daughter’s experience at the CdM Library while using the library’s test proctoring services. She let her know to make sure to alert staff if there are any disruptions to their use of the library so that staff can address the issue in a timely manner. Annika offered her apologies and thanks once more. The patron was thankful for the call and was glad to hear that she can work with staff in the future. Where is the best place to find rates for room rentals? Primarily interested in Charles Sword size room. Thank you for your inquiry about the Charles Sword Meeting Room at the Central Library. The Sword Room is FREE to use for anyone who has a valid Newport Beach Public Library card and can accommodate a minimum of six and a maximum of 20 people. It is available via reservation. This room has Wi-Fi access, but no audio-visual equipment. You can find the complete room guidelines at ... Reservations can be made in person or by calling the Administration Office at 949- 717-3801, Mondays thru Thursdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Fridays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Thank you and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions. Would I be able to return books that I checked out from Irvine University Park Library? Thank you!The Irvine University Park Library is actually a member of the Orange County Public Library system, and not part of the Newport Beach Public Library system. For that reason, I would recommend returning your materials directly to OCPL. We would have no way to identify a borrower to remove it from your OCPL account. The Orange County system is quite large, so it is possible they have a branch closer to you. The phone number for the University Park branch is 949-786-4001 in case you would like to check with them. If we can be of any other assistance, please let us know. Best regards.59 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 11 04/18/2024 Email Annika Helmuth Branch & Youth Services Coordinator 04/18/2024 12 04/19/2024 Email Terry Sanchez Programs Specialist 04/19/2024 13 04/22/2024 Email Andy Kachaturian Circ. & Tech. Processing Coordinator 04/22/2024 14 04/26/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/26/2024 How to propose program to library? Please feel free to advise and share your thoughts with me at your earliest convenience. It was a pleasure speaking with you this evening. As I mentioned on the phone, the library hosts a variety of children’s programs and performances. These events are typically highly interactive. Some of the criteria used when selecting programs for special events include community interests and demands; significance and compatibility of the work to the Newport Beach area; recommendations of references; and suitability of format, subject and style to the intended audience. We also consider program setup and space requirements among other logistical demands. Once you have a program proposal prepared, you may email it to me for review. Your proposal will be evaluated to determine if it meets the criteria for consideration. Please be sure to include as much detailed information as possible as to the content and format of the workshops offered. We also ask that you provide at least two references for your proposed program. Please let me know if there is anything else I can answer. I wanted to recommend having Lian Dolan visit and speak about her most recent book (and others). I think she will really resonate and connect with the NB audience. https://www.liandolan.com/ Thank you for your author event recommendation. The programming committee always appreciates our patrons' suggestions. Our current program season is complete, but we will be happy to look into this author for future programming. This is an apology. Yesterday afternoon, I went to the library intending to return books. However, as I am currently studying English and don't understand some English very well, I accidentally pressed the borrow button on the machine. Then I left the book at the library. When I saw the receipt today, I realized it showed a renewal. I knew I had made a mistake. So, I logged into my account and found that there were no books borrowed. I understand that my mistake has been corrected by you, and I'm very sorry for any inconvenience caused. Thank you! Thank you for reaching out to us. We appreciate you explaining what happened and taking the time to check up. I do not see anything on your account as you noted, so I think everything is fine. It is possible that something did get checked out and then staff checked it back in once it was found. If we can be of any other help, please let us know. Have a nice evening! When I log into the Newport Beach library, go to ProQuest or some of the other databases, they don't load after I put in my library card. Is the database system down at the moment (Apr 26, approx. 4:30 p.m. PST)? Or did something change with your system login? Thanks. I’m sorry to hear you are experiencing an issue logging into some of our databases. Will you please verify that the card number you are using is ... If that is the number, you might try clearing your web browser’s cache or using an incognito window. Please let me know if that works. If not, I will contact City’s IT support. Thank you.60 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS APRIL 2024 Comment #Comment Response Date Received Source of Comment Staff Member Staff Member Title Date Responded to Patron 15 04/29/2024 In Person Allison Sarnowski Administrative Support Technician 04/29/2024 16 04/29/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/29/2024 17 04/29/2024 Email Rebecca Lightfoot Library Services Manager 04/29/2024 A new patron stopped by Library Administration to report the great service he received from Greg. The patron needed to print some documents, but he is not very good with computers. Greg provided friendly service with a smile, and the patron was very happy to receive exactly what he needed. Allison thanked the patron for his kind feedback, and reported the compliment to Greg and the Library Admin. Team. Are you guys pet friendly?Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are welcome in the library. Non-service animals are prohibited … Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you. I have a vintage 1930's Bell & Howell Film Projector that I am looking to donate. I have tried the local Jr. College as well as UCI Film department, but unfortunately no one seems to have room for it. Would the library be interested in this item? Or would you have an idea of another outlet that may be interested? Thank you. Thank you so much for thinking of us, but unfortunately we would not be able to take the projector. I looked online to see if I could find anyone who was actively looking for vintage film equipment, but I was unable to find anywhere else to donate it. You might try calling or emailing the Academy Museum in L.A. They might know of someone who would be willing to accept it ... Thank you.61 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 7 MELISSA HARTSON, LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR April is Earthquake Preparedness Month The Library’s Management Team and Branch Managers participated in a drill simulating a 6.2 magnitude earthquake occurring on the Newport-Inglewood Fault. Staff trained with the City’s Community Development, Fire, Police, and Public Works departments. The exercise included activating emergency response plans, assessing, reporting, and prioritizing practice scenarios, and communicating across departments in a joint effort to manage these circumstances that could result from a 6.2 magnitude earthquake. Butterfly Release Program The annual Butterfly Release at the Central Library took place on April 30. In its sixth year, the Butterfly Release was a highly anticipated event. The program began three weeks prior to the release with the arrival of the butterfly habitat to the Central Library Children’s Room. New this year, Youth Services added Ladybug Land, a live ladybug habitat. Throughout the course of three weeks, families visited the Library specifically to observe the metamorphosis. It was a wonderful opportunity for staff to connect with community members throughout the month. Families were invested in the little critters as was clear by the 174 participants in attendance for the release event. The afternoon started with crafts; then a ladybug release in the children's garden; and finally, a grand procession across the Civic Center Green to the Sculpture Exhibition where the butterflies were released. Those who had a ladybug or butterfly land on them were especially excited. It was an energetic and cheerful event that brought both storytime and afterschool families together. 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 April Library Activities – May 20, 2024 Meeting 62 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 2 WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES • Library Closure: Memorial Day Monday, May 27 All locations • Summer Reading Program Saturday, June 8 – Saturday, July 27 All locations • Library Closure: Repair Work Tuesday, May 28 – Friday, May 31 Mariners Branch Library • Library Foundation’s Summer Solstice Wednesday, June 12, 5 – 7 p.m. Friends Meeting Room, Central Library • Friends of the Library Used Book Sale Friday, June 7, 1 – 4 p.m. (Members Only) Saturday, June 8, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friends Meeting Room, Central Library • Board of Library Trustees Meeting Monday, June 17, 5 p.m. Council Chambers, Civic Center REBECCA LIGHTFOOT, LIBRARY SERVICES MANAGER Training Reference Librarian Rosemary Hammock attended the semi-annual Public Library Association Conference in Columbus, Ohio along with Children’s Librarian Jasmin Avila. They were able to attend conferences, see keynote speakers, talk to vendors, and network with librarians from all over the country. April’s live training featured guest speaker Sheri Laigle, the Director of Social Servies at HIAS, a Jewish Humanitarian organization committed to helping refugees and asylum seekers. Ms. Laigle discussed ways in which libraries could help patrons connect with much needed resources. Programming The April Sunday Musicale welcomed back Vieness Piano Duo. They were outstanding, received a standing ovation and obliged with an encore. There were 203 in attendance. The Library also hosted a Meet the Author event featuring New York Times Best Selling author, Douglas Brunt and his book, “The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel”. Mr. Brunt was engaging as he shared about his research, writing process and the life and contribution of Rudolf Diesel. He fielded many questions from our audience and was gracious to take his time to chat with each patron who wanted to speak to him and signed over 100 books. The event had 177 in attendance. Literacy Literacy has been processing prospective volunteers and learners into the program, communicating with volunteers regarding background checks, and conducting assessments for learners. Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot attended the Corona del Mar Residents’ Association Annual Town Hall to promote Project Adult Literacy. Several prospective tutors were given information on how to volunteer. 63 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 3 ANNIKA HELMUTH, BRANCH AND YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR National Library Week Every year in April, Youth Services recognizes National Library Week with a host of exciting special events and honorary guest readers at storytime. This year’s celebration was a notable one, with 14 distinguished guest readers including Mayor O’Neill; Mayor Pro-Tem Stapleton; Councilmembers Weigand, Kleiman, and Grant; Chair Watkins; Trustee Rief; City Manager Leung; Chief Boyles; Assistant City Manager Jurjis; Police Lieutenant Miller; Police Sergeant Oberon; Public Works Finance Manager Schweitzer; and Library Director Hartson. Special events included the launch of the Seed Library; the Butterfly Habitat arrival; Coding for Kids; Recycled Book Art; BARK: Read to a Dog; and a magic show. An impressive 1,078 participants attended events during the exceptional week. Youth Services is grateful for each guest reader generously sharing their time to support the Library throughout the week. A big thank you goes also to the Friends of the Library and the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation for their financial support. Branch Activities At the Corona del Mar Branch (CdM), BARK: Read to a Dog was one of several events celebrating National Library Week. Those who attended thoroughly enjoyed the quality time they got to spend with the two wonderful and friendly dogs. All attendees expressed their delight and hope to have the program return to the branch again. Also, in celebration of National Library Week, the Balboa Branch (Balboa) hosted a drop-in Recycled Book Art craft program. Participants enjoyed making crafts not only from recycled books but also from seashells and pinecones. In personnel news, Priscilla Johnson joined the branch as a part-time library clerk. At the Mariners Branch (Mariners), the new Seed Library was introduced with a special seed-planting program. Families were invited to start growing with seeds, soil, and containers provided at potting stations set up on the grass behind the branch. The event was well attended, and the Seed Library continues to generate interest. Also at Mariners, Magician California Joe performed on April 13, in celebration of National Library Week. He engaged the kids with plenty of humor and magic. Several kids volunteered to help with his show, and everyone had a great time, filling the room with laughter. California Joe promoted library use throughout the show where 71 people attended. A big thank you to the Friends of the Library for funding this event. Youth Services This year's Spring Reading Challenge concluded on April 30, encouraging children to read every day in March and April. Every 10 days that a participant read they were given an entry into the grand prize drawing. This year, we added Library-branded incentive prizes for reaching significant milestones. Patrons regularly ask staff about reading challenges for school-aged children outside of the summer reading program, and this challenge offers that while generating interest in summer reading. Special Programs On Tuesday, April 23, children’s author Rashin Kheiriyeh visited the Central Library for a Children’s Author Event. Author events often leave a lasting impression on children. They foster connections between children and the written word while inspiring creativity. The event included a reading of the author’s newest book Rumi: Poet of Joy and Love; a Q&A portion; a draw-along activity; and a book signing as well as several engaging poetry-based activities that participants enjoyed while they waited to meet the author. 64 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 4 On Monday, April 29, April’s Coding for Kids wrapped after five weeks of learning to code using Scratch. It was another very popular series with many participants attending the entire series of the classes, each building on the previous week’s skills. Participants ranged from ages 6 to 9, all with a variety of skill levels and coding experience. Class Visits Class visits typically shift to school visits in April as staff begin Summer Reading Program outreach at elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the community. Training CdM Branch Librarian Nadia Dallstream attended Presentation Skills & Public Speaking presented by Richard Marks from Government Training Academy. At the end of the month, Mariners Children’s Librarian Christine Chapel attended the California State Library’s Youth Services Summit. The two-day professional conference is tailored for youth and teen library workers throughout California. Teen Services On Saturday, April 20, Central Library hosted teens for another college preparation workshop, Admissions 101. The seminar, presented by Collegewise, discussed what college admissions committees look for and how they decide who gets in, including topics about grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities. Several parents commented on how much they enjoyed coming to the program and others like it. Outreach On Tuesday, April 2, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth and CdM Branch Librarian Dallstream attended the CdM Residents Association Annual Town Hall held at Sherman Library and Gardens. Positioned at a table near the front entrance, Library staff greeted people as they passed, and many stopped for information on library offerings; promotional items; and Library cards. On Monday, April 8, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth attended the Mayor’s Youth Council Mock Council Meeting where students assumed the roles of council and staff to discuss mock Consent Calendar items including a new aquatics facility and an item related to homelessness. The Mayor’s Youth Council is an unpaid internship for local high school students where participants are paired with City staff mentors to learn about local government operations. This is the second year Branch and Youth Coordinator Helmuth has served as a mentor in the program. On Friday, April 26, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth was an honored guest at the Harbor View Elementary morning flag deck presentation where Harbor View Associated Student Body (ASB) students presented a donation check to the Newport Beach Public Library. This is the second year in a row the Harbor View ASB has chosen to support the Library. ANDREW KACHATURIAN, CIRCULATION AND TECHNICAL PROCESSING COORDINATOR Staffing Part-time Library Clerk Raquel Villanueva resigned her position in April. Lucero Tamayo was hired as a Library Page at the Central Library. Three Library Pages are in the background process. Interviews are ongoing to fill the last remaining positions: two part-time Library Clerks and one Library Page. 65 Report of April Library Activities May 20, 2024 Page 5 Facilities The public elevator at the Central Library has been repaired and is available for use. New “additional parking” signage has been installed in the front lot at the Central Library to assist in guiding patrons to the parking structure and avoid congesting the front row of the parking lot. These metal signs are more durable and eye-catching. The City Public Works department has determined that there is serious corrosion on the fire sprinkler water line in the high ceiling at Mariners nearest the adult book collection and public computers. They are working to schedule drainage and repair as soon as possible to avoid a failure. This will necessitate the closing of Mariners during the length of the repairs as the work will require boom/scissor lifts, metal- cutting, drywall removal and repair, and much of the adult book collection and public computers will be inaccessible. Staff are prepared to offer curbside service for hold pickup on any affected days. 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 2025 13852 Alexander Street **********82 37 119 559 238 1035 Ancestry 976 937 881 451 789 91 183 296 290 168 5062 AskART 55 22 71 17 18 9 17 16 12 7 244 Brainfuse JobNow/VetNow 82 48 43 21 37 20 21 25 94 281 672 Britannica School Edition 23 4 126 613 50 357 49 23 103 395 1743 Exploring Race in Society 2 0 14 7 2 0 10 10 10 5 60 Gale Archives Unbound 1977 7446 1971 2410 7450 2190 3506 1318 1533 2409 32210 Gale Directory Library 17 2 0 77 9 17 5 52 33 10 222 Gale in Context: Biography 9 7 21 64 18 4 23 7 43 22 218 Gale in Context: Elementary 10 23 10 30 12 5 2 11 10 4 117 Gale in Context: Environmental ***12 21 1 8 6 2 0 50 Gale in Context: Opposing View 8 1 33 54 1078 76 129 68 27 34 1508 Gale Interactive: Science ***1 0 0 2 0 1 0 4 Gale Literature Resource Center 8 2 14 53 15 8 42 1306 1330 291 3069 Gale Virtual Reference Library 46 28 12 33 209 21 33 34 65 58 539 HeritageQuest 224 241 140 92 233 95 118 50 284 368 1845 Legal Information Ref Center 72 65 25 28 33 23 75 118 80 108 627 National Geographic 24 14 62 38 28 21 32 26 46 24 315 National Geographic Kids 23 13 45 53 21 3 17 20 28 14 237 NewsBank 1292 1211 1634 1190 1092 1084 1992 1250 1048 1350 13143 NoveList Plus 48 84 37 423 225 112 65 150 63 50 1257 NoveList K-8 Plus 22 44 22 72 36 0 8 24 14 8 250 ProQuest 2587 2605 2748 3262 3259 3073 5157 3937 3188 2696 32512 Proquest eLibrary 2 4 1 7 1 0 18 5 10 24 72 Reference Solutions Business 1883 614 389 481 337 159 202 445 470 530 5510 Reference Solutions Residential 91 32 34 866 19 156 14 17 30 25 1284 SIRS Discoverer 0 3 15 260 454 0 83 99 1620 921 3455 SIRS Issues Researcher 192 3 4 675 2331 1692 5034 6284 7920 6194 30329 World Book Online 4 8 99 225 49 6 11 261 22 13 698 Tracked by #page views Artist Works 4 3 3 1 6 5 3 4 8 3 40 Consumer Reports 3496 2508 2216 2099 3030 2099 3005 1826 1774 2051 24104 CultureGrams 26 45 22 224 30 34 32 22 11 52 498 Morningstar 5899 5543 3825 4267 4883 4093 3998 3894 3115 3239 42756 RealQuest 11 0 403 5 2 0 0 43 130 825 1419 Tumblebooks 12 24 16 89 19 13 5 27 10 5 220 Value Line 13295 11823 13609 15082 16193 12548 9703 11421 13572 132050 Tracked by courses LinkedIn Learning 349 190 200 235 162 151 264 185 191 200 2127 Tracked by books logged Beanstack 10374 4111 3584 3762 3903 1765 3535 2548 2720 2822 39124 Tracked by Hours Used ABC Mouse 27.68 30.40 18.77 20.53 25.83 43.01 56.18 52.95 19.83 13.42 308.60 Beanstack 4603 199 103 153 142 119 129 108.5 161 116 5834 Rosetta Stone 16.12 47.18 23.15 37.60 24.80 17.23 25.51 21.68 32.80 42.30 288.37 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 1425 1517 Newspapers--Current 656 1022 919 941 580 805 1578 1518 1077 956 1005 Newspapers--Historical 1966 3410 1962 2116 2144 2078 1914 1523 1922 1966 2100 Magazines 19 22 12 36 49 25 38 23 18 2 24 14804 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 23637 21707 217072 New Users 22806 22634 19381 19876 18796 18098 21385 20253 19617 19584 20243 202430 Sessions 44852 41809 38321 39420 36151 35900 43569 41485 40363 42232 40410 404102 Pageviews 97997 72390 67543 67569 62349 57142 74055 71726 70921 82803 72450 724495 Sessions Per User 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 -- Pages Per Session 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 -- Avg. Session Dur. (min)3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 4 3 -- Bounce Rate (%)54 58 56 58 57 60 58 58 57 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 240 157 342 257 478 206 503 594 165 152 309 3093 CdM 220 242 144 153 108 124 175 163 170 139 164 1637 Mariners 1710 1500 1660 1900 1830 2810 2380 2070 1890 1960 1971 19710 Central 11410 12170 12450 11900 10690 10040 11170 10640 11450 11090 11301 113010 Total 13580 14069 14596 14210 13106 13180 14228 13467 13675 13341 13745 137450 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 518 445 401 377 331 333 284 293 303 270 356 3555 CdM 470 449 392 409 330 322 321 329 375 335 373 3732 Mariners 1575 1578 1679 1789 1541 1279 1267 1209 1388 1288 1459 14593 Central 8775 9524 9451 9593 8811 8795 8136 7983 8929 8715 8871 88712 Total 11338 11996 11923 12168 11013 10729 10008 9814 10995 10608 11059 110592 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 27 34 338 CdM 30 30 26 25 21 21 22 23 25 20 24 243 Mariners 124 125 139 151 128 109 112 112 122 121 124 1243 Central 654 661 651 684 604 583 563 608 599 641 625 6248 Total 852 857 856 897 786 744 728 771 772 809 807 8072 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 558 576 941 9413 CdM 480 552 376 382 336 394 558 509 463 424 447 4473 Mariners 1110 999 1010 1090 1210 2250 1920 1750 1390 1560 1429 14289 Central 1330 1310 1350 1270 1240 1170 1410 1360 1310 1300 1305 13050 Total 3394 3222 3610 3440 4226 4446 5658 5649 3721 3860 4123 41225 68 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 2,346 23,228 25,528 CdM 4,020 37,385 31,203 MARINERS 22,230 213,528 205,522 CENTRAL 49,824 521,656 557,203 eBooks 8,092 78,892 71,764 eMagazines 3,775 46,493 20,131 eAudiobooks 6,780 64,983 59,997 Streaming Films 3,177 24,966 7,274 TOTAL 100,244 1,011,131 978,622 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 APR 24 100,244 TOTAL 1,205,460 12 Month Comparison NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 CIRCULATION BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL eBooks eMagazines eAudiobooks Streaming Films 92,000 94,000 96,000 98,000 100,000 102,000 104,000 106,000 108,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 410 3,825 3,254 CdM 527 5,631 6,521 MARINERS 2,047 20,152 18,045 CENTRAL 6,720 65,015 60,805 TOTAL 9,704 94,623 88,625 12 Month Comparison 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 APR 24 9,704 TOTAL 114,240 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 REFERENCE BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 13,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 2,000 20,481 21,102 CdM 2,727 29,953 25,878 MARINERS 14,102 132,851 116,705 CENTRAL 37,499 362,759 353,465 TOTAL 56,328 546,044 517,150 12 Month Comparison 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 APR 24 56,328 TOTAL 652,189 NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 PATRONS SERVED BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL 46,000 48,000 50,000 52,000 54,000 56,000 58,000 60,000 62,000 64,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 APR 24 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23 BALBOA 325 2,302 1,653 CdM 1,147 9,976 6,645 MARINERS 1,860 13,322 8,274 CENTRAL 6,300 60,690 45,938 TOTAL 9,632 86,290 62,510 12 Month Comparison 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 10,506 APR 24 9,632 TOTAL 102,073 PROGRAM ATTENDANCE NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - APRIL 2024 BALBOA CdM MARINERS CENTRAL 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 11,000 12,000 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23 NOV 23 DEC 23 JAN 24 FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 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 (May 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 2,475,225 245,713 681,112 SALARY PART-TIME 1,279,860 1,324,256 718,506 74,188 605,750 BENEFITS 2,247,901 2,371,705 1,858,852 180,554 512,853 SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL 6,684,098 6,852,299 5,052,584 500,455 1,799,715 II MAINT & OPERATION PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*207,488 207,488 182,393 34,819 25,095 UTILITIES 372,933 372,933 298,944 24,005 73,989 PROGRAMMING 2,000 5,800 2,816 32 2,984 SUPPLIES**82,800 84,186 70,362 7,853 13,825 LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 676,603 625,264 33,490 51,339 FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 250,275 260,864 173,630 18,720 87,235 TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 8,885 2,900 1,796 GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***24,202 25,920 22,111 3,178 3,809 PERIPHERALS & SOFTWARE 5,000 3,960 115 87 3,845 INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,693,396 1,693,396 1,411,164 141,116 282,233 OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 379 0 1,621 MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,320,516 3,343,833 2,796,062 266,199 547,771 LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL 10,004,613 10,196,132 7,848,646 766,653 2,347,486 *PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE **INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES ***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE 73 Previous Agenda Date AGENDA ITEM Scheduled Agenda Date Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 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 Apr 15, 2024 Apr 21, 2025 Apr 15, 2024 Apr 21, 2025 LAST REVIEWED POLICY REVIEW Jan 16, 2024 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy May 20, 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 Mar 18, 2024 NBPL 3 Library Gift and Donor Policy Mar 16, 2026 Information Technology Update Adult and Reference Services Update Branch Update - Balboa 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 - CDM Financial Report Comparison of Beginning Budget to End of the Year Amended Budget Literacy Program Update 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 Annual Budget - Preliminary Review Arts & Cultural Update Newport Beach Public Library eBranch, Database and Downloadable Services Review Performance Review of Library Services Director (Closed Session) 74 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 10 RECOMMENDATION: Review and discuss the Children’s Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee’s proposed amendments to Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy and provide direction to staff. DISCUSSION: At the November 11, 2023 Board of Library Trustees (Board) meeting, Chair Paul Watkins appointed Vice Chair Dorothy Larson and Trustee Antonella Castro to serve on the Children’s Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee. The ad hoc subcommittee was formed to determine whether a Children’s Collection Development Policy is necessary and, if the policy is needed whether it should be a separate policy or incorporated into the existing Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy. The Children’s Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee will present its recommendations to the Board for their review and discussion. 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: Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) - original ATTACHMENT B: Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) - redline ATTACHMENT C: Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) - revised 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: Children’s Collection Development Policy Review 75 1 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy The Library seeks to provide breadth and depth within the collection, various points of view, and differing formats. The Library endeavors to balance materials of permanent value with those of current interest. Materials are selected based on their content as a whole, not on selected excerpts. Race, nationality, or political, social, moral, or religious views of an author will not affect the selection of materials. 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. Responsibility of Selection Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Services Director (“Director”), who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board. The Director delegates the major responsibility of materials selection to the Librarians on staff. Guidelines for Materials Selection Collection Development is based on these specific criteria: •Community needs, interests and demands •Significance and compatibility of the work to the collection •Recommendations of reviews from professional journals or publications of national repute •Reputation and qualifications of the author, illustrator, publisher or producer •Availability of other information on the subject •Literary, artistic, historical, scientific or intellectual merit •Suitability of format •Author or creator already has popular works in the collection •Significance of the author’s work to the Newport Beach area •Suitability of subject and style to intended audience The importance or weight of each of these factors will vary from one acquisition to another, others may be considered, and materials for adults, teens and children will each be judged differently. Patrons making requests that items be added to the permanent collection will be referred to the “Suggest a Title” form located on the Library’s website. Suggestions from Library patrons are encouraged and receive serious consideration. ATTACHMENT A 76 2 Reciprocal Lending Many items which are not in the collection are available to Library patrons, through established interlibrary loan practices. Concurrently, the Library participates in universal borrowing, established by the California Library Services Act, Article 4, California Education Code Section 18731, which states, “A California public library may participate in universal borrowing. A public library participating in universal borrowing shall not exclude the residents of any jurisdiction maintaining a public library.” This allows Newport Beach Public Library patrons direct access to materials housed in other participating public libraries in Orange County and throughout the State of California. Patron Rights The Library believes that the use of library materials is an individual and private matter. Parents and caregivers have the primary responsibility to guide and direct the use of library materials by the minor children under their care and supervision. In support of the above principles, in general the Library endorses the Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement as adopted by the American Library Association Council. 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, Attachment I to this Policy. 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”). The Appeal Application and the Procedures are set forth in Attachment II to this Policy. Donations The Library only accepts materials in useable condition. All donations become the sole property of the Newport Beach Public Library upon receipt and cannot be returned. The Library reserves the right to decide whether donated items are added to the collection and to determine the conditions of display, storage and access. All donated materials added to the collection must meet the same collection criteria as purchased materials. Donated items not added to the collection are given to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library for sale in their bookstore. Proceeds from the Friends of the Library Bookstore directly benefit the Library. 77 3 Collection Maintenance The Library and the Director are continually evaluating the collection and, on their own initiative, may take actions with respect to the collection based on this Policy. 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. As materials become worn, damaged, or lost, replacement will be based on whether or not: •The item is still available •There is an ongoing demand or need •Another item or format might better serve the same purpose •Updated, newer, or revised materials would better replace a given item •Another library system could better provide the item or a comparable item in the future [Attachment I – Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources] [Attachment II – Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees and Procedures for Patron’s Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees] Adopted - October 22, 1990 Amended - October 28, 1991 Amended - January 24, 1994 Reassigned - April 8, 2003 Corrected (Att. II) – October 10, 2006 Revisions Approved – November 16, 2010 Amendments Approved by City Council – September 27, 2011 Amended – August 20, 2018 Formerly I-16 Amended – August 17, 2020 Amended – August 15, 2022 Amended – September 18, 2023 Amended – October 16, 2023 Amended – January 16, 2024 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 January 16, 2024. 78 1 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy The Library seeks to provide breadth and depth within the collection, various points of view, and differing formats. The Library endeavors to balance materials of permanent value with those of current interest. Materials are selected based on their content as a whole, not on selected excerpts. Race, nationality, or political, social, moral, or religious views of an author will not affect the selection of materials. Inclusion of an item in the Library’s collection does not mean the Library staff, Board of Library Trustees, or the City of Newport Beach endorses the contents, views, or objectives expressed in those items. 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. With respect to the Library’s children’s collection (the “Children’s Collection”), the desire of the Board and Library staff is to curate a Children’s Collection that serves the informational, educational, social, spiritual, and emotional learning needs, development, and recreational reading requirements appropriate for child patrons (children ages 0-12) within the City of Newport Beach. Responsibility of Selection Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Services Director (“Director”), who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board. The Director delegates the major responsibility of materials selection to the Librarians on staff. The responsibility for material selection for the Children’s Collection ultimately rests with the Director, however, it is the desire of the Board that there be a staff member appointed as the Children’s Collection Coordinator (the “Coordinator”), and the Coordinator is responsible for developing a proposed list of materials for procurement for the Children’s Collection (each a “Proposed List”) prior to acquiring any materials for the Children’s Collection. Each Proposed List will be provided to the Director for review and approval. Material that is on controversial topics must be read by the Director or Coordinator to determine whether or not they belong in the Children’s Collection and prior to being put into circulation. In addition to the Director’s objective professional opinion, and the criteria in this policy; the Director will also take into account independent book reviews (i.e. non-paid reviews), literary awards and patron demand and interest. Once the Director approves items on the Proposed List (the “Approved Materials”), the Coordinator may proceed with procuring such Approved Materials. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the term “controversial topics” or “sensitive materials” means material that addresses (either in written or illustrative form and distributed either ATTACHMENT B 79 2 electronically or in hard copy) the human anatomy, sexual relationships, and/or divisive social or political issues. Guidelines for Materials Selection Collection Development is based on these specific criteria: •Community needs, interests and demands •Significance and compatibility of the work to the collection •Recommendations of reviews from professional journals or publications of national repute •Reputation and qualifications of the author, illustrator, publisher or producer •Availability of other information on the subject •Literary, artistic, historical, scientific or intellectual merit •Suitability of format •Author or creator already has popular works in the collection •Significance of the author’s work to the Newport Beach area •Suitability of subject and style to intended audience The importance or weight of each of these factors will vary from one acquisition to another, others may be considered, and materials for adults, teens and children will each be judged differently. Additional guidelines for selection of children materials includes the following: •Subject matter is age appropriate •Illustrations (visual literacy) should be age appropriate and evaluated just like the written word. Moreover, children’s books containing sexually graphic, or violent pictures should be closely evaluated to determine whether there is a better alternative on the same subject matter absent such illustrations. •Consideration is given to the need, contribution, and suitability of the material with regard to the intellectual, social and spiritual development of children. •Take into consideration the varied interests, abilities and maturity levels of the children served. •The Children’s Collection should reflect diverse points of view and the materials purchased should create a balanced approach. For controversial topics, effort should be made to select material that is most age appropriate and the Coordinator along with the Director should review these materials prior to purchase or in the case of pre-purchase ordering once the material is received prior to placing it in circulation to determine whether or not it is consistent with the current Policy. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the determination of whether or not material is “age appropriate” will not be based solely on reading level (e.g. whether a third party review has determined it appropriate for grades 3rd -8th) since such a broad age range does not take into account the fact that children have reached varied social and emotional maturity levels at different stages, nor does it take into consideration whether there is an alternative work on the same subject matter that may be more consistent with this Policy. Patrons making requests that items be added to the permanent collection will be referred to the “Suggest a Title” form located on the Library’s website. Suggestions from Library patrons are encouraged and receive serious consideration. Third Party Vendors 80 3 There is a preference for independent vendors. Any third party vendor contracted with by the Library must be provided a copy of this Policy and contractually required to abide by the terms herein (meaning, this Policy will be attached to and incorporated into any contract for the provision of collection materials). Further, the Director will provide the Board with drafts of the staff’s request for proposals prior to them being sent out as well as copies of all responses. No binding contracts will be executed without the Board’s prior written approval of the vendor being contracted with and the terms and conditions contained in such agreement. Notwithstanding anything the contrary contained herein with respect to third party contracting, all contracts will comply with Newport Beach City Council’s Policy F-14. Library Displays: Programming0F 1 Displays located in the children’s section of any branch of the Library will follow the guidelines in this Policy. If the Director wants to deviate from this Policy they will first present any such proposed deviation to the Board for approval which approval may be withheld or given in the Board’s reasonable discretion. Programming for children will comply with this Policy, including but not limited to the summer reading program, any speakers featured in person or online, and online curriculum. Prizes In the event an individual or company provides the Library with product to handout or giveaway to Library patrons, including but not limited to items to serve as prizes; or the Library staff desires to procure items to be given out as prizes or giveaways, no member of the staff may provide such “free” materials to any patron until the Director has (i) confirmed such items comply with this Policy and (ii) provided notice to the Board of its intention to disburse or display such items. Reciprocal Lending Many items which are not in the collection are available to Library patrons, through established interlibrary loan practices. Concurrently, the Library participates in universal borrowing, established by the California Library Services Act, Article 4, California Education Code Section 18731, which states, “A California public library may participate in universal borrowing. A public library participating in universal borrowing shall not exclude the residents of any jurisdiction maintaining a public library.” This allows Newport Beach Public Library patrons direct access to materials housed in other participating public libraries in Orange County and throughout the State of California. Patron Rights The Library believes that the use of library materials is an individual and private matter. Parents and caregivers have the primary responsibility to guide and direct the use of library materials by the minor children under their care and supervision. In support of the above principles, in general the Library endorses the Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement as adopted by the American Library Association Council. 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, Attachment I to this Policy. 1 In the ad hoc committee’s meeting with the Director there was suggestion that a separate policy for displays and programming including the summer reading program be created. 81 4 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”). The Appeal Application and the Procedures are set forth in Attachment II to this Policy. The Board also has the right to call for review any material contained in the Library, and request the Director and/or any staff member to participate in its review. Donations The Library only accepts materials in useable condition. All donations become the sole property of the Newport Beach Public Library upon receipt and cannot be returned. The Library reserves the right to decide whether donated items are added to the collection and to determine the conditions of display, storage and access. All donated materials added to the collection must meet the same collection criteria as purchased materials. Donated items not added to the collection are given to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library for sale in their bookstore. Proceeds from the Friends of the Library Bookstore directly benefit the Library. Collection Maintenance The Library and the Director are continually evaluating the collection and, on their own initiative, may take actions with respect to the collection based on this Policy. 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. As materials become worn, damaged, or lost, replacement will be based on whether or not: •The item is still available •There is an ongoing demand or need •Another item or format might better serve the same purpose •Updated, newer, or revised materials would better replace a given item •Another library system could better provide the item or a comparable item in the future [Attachment I – Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources] [Attachment II – Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees and Procedures for Patron’s Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees] 82 5 Adopted - October 22, 1990 Amended - October 28, 1991 Amended - January 24, 1994 Reassigned - April 8, 2003 Corrected (Att. II) – October 10, 2006 Revisions Approved – November 16, 2010 Amendments Approved by City Council – September 27, 2011 Amended – August 20, 2018 Formerly I-16 Amended – August 17, 2020 Amended – August 15, 2022 Amended – September 18, 2023 Amended – October 16, 2023 Amended – January 16, 2024 Reviewed – May 20, 2024 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 January 16May 20, 2024. 83 1 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy The Library seeks to provide breadth and depth within the collection, various points of view, and differing formats. The Library endeavors to balance materials of permanent value with those of current interest. Materials are selected based on their content as a whole, not on selected excerpts. Race, nationality, or political, social, moral, or religious views of an author will not affect the selection of materials. Inclusion of an item in the Library’s collection does not mean the Library staff, Board of Library Trustees, or the City of Newport Beach endorses the contents, views, or objectives expressed in those items. 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. With respect to the Library’s children’s collection (the “Children’s Collection”), the desire of the Board and Library staff is to curate a Children’s Collection that serves the informational, educational, social, spiritual, and emotional learning needs, development, and recreational reading requirements appropriate for child patrons (children ages 0-12) within the City of Newport Beach. Responsibility of Selection Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Services Director (“Director”), who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Board. The Director delegates the major responsibility of materials selection to the Librarians on staff. The responsibility for material selection for the Children’s Collection ultimately rests with the Director, however, it is the desire of the Board that there be a staff member appointed as the Children’s Collection Coordinator (the “Coordinator”), and the Coordinator is responsible for developing a proposed list of materials for procurement for the Children’s Collection (each a “Proposed List”) prior to acquiring any materials for the Children’s Collection. Each Proposed List will be provided to the Director for review and approval. Material that is on controversial topics must be read by the Director or Coordinator to determine whether or not they belong in the Children’s Collection and prior to being put into circulation. In addition to the Director’s objective professional opinion, and the criteria in this policy; the Director will also take into account independent book reviews (i.e. non-paid reviews), literary awards and patron demand and interest. Once the Director approves items on the Proposed List (the “Approved Materials”), the Coordinator may proceed with procuring such Approved Materials. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the term “controversial topics” or “sensitive materials” means material that addresses (either in written or illustrative form and distributed either ATTACHMENT C 84 2 electronically or in hard copy) the human anatomy, sexual relationships, and/or divisive social or political issues. Guidelines for Materials Selection Collection Development is based on these specific criteria: • Community needs, interests and demands • Significance and compatibility of the work to the collection • Recommendations of reviews from professional journals or publications of national repute • Reputation and qualifications of the author, illustrator, publisher or producer • Availability of other information on the subject • Literary, artistic, historical, scientific or intellectual merit • Suitability of format • Author or creator already has popular works in the collection • Significance of the author’s work to the Newport Beach area • Suitability of subject and style to intended audience The importance or weight of each of these factors will vary from one acquisition to another, others may be considered, and materials for adults, teens and children will each be judged differently. Additional guidelines for selection of children materials includes the following: • Subject matter is age appropriate • Illustrations (visual literacy) should be age appropriate and evaluated just like the written word. Moreover, children’s books containing sexually graphic, or violent pictures should be closely evaluated to determine whether there is a better alternative on the same subject matter absent such illustrations. • Consideration is given to the need, contribution, and suitability of the material with regard to the intellectual, social and spiritual development of children. • Take into consideration the varied interests, abilities and maturity levels of the children served. • The Children’s Collection should reflect diverse points of view and the materials purchased should create a balanced approach. For controversial topics, effort should be made to select material that is most age appropriate and the Coordinator along with the Director should review these materials prior to purchase or in the case of pre-purchase ordering once the material is received prior to placing it in circulation to determine whether or not it is consistent with the current Policy. For purposes of the Children’s Collection, the determination of whether or not material is “age appropriate” will not be based solely on reading level (e.g. whether a third party review has determined it appropriate for grades 3rd -8th) since such a broad age range does not take into account the fact that children have reached varied social and emotional maturity levels at different stages, nor does it take into consideration whether there is an alternative work on the same subject matter that may be more consistent with this Policy. Patrons making requests that items be added to the permanent collection will be referred to the “Suggest a Title” form located on the Library’s website. Suggestions from Library patrons are encouraged and receive serious consideration. Third Party Vendors There is a preference for independent vendors. Any third party vendor contracted with by the Library must be provided a copy of this Policy and contractually required to abide by the terms 85 3 herein (meaning, this Policy will be attached to and incorporated into any contract for the provision of collection materials). Further, the Director will provide the Board with drafts of the staff’s request for proposals prior to them being sent out as well as copies of all responses. No binding contracts will be executed without the Board’s prior written approval of the vendor being contracted with and the terms and conditions contained in such agreement. Notwithstanding anything the contrary contained herein with respect to third party contracting, all contracts will comply with Newport Beach City Council’s Policy F-14. Library Displays: Programming Displays located in the children’s section of any branch of the Library will follow the guidelines in this Policy. If the Director wants to deviate from this Policy they will first present any such proposed deviation to the Board for approval which approval may be withheld or given in the Board’s reasonable discretion. Programming for children will comply with this Policy, including but not limited to the summer reading program, any speakers featured in person or online, and online curriculum. Prizes In the event an individual or company provides the Library with product to handout or giveaway to Library patrons, including but not limited to items to serve as prizes; or the Library staff desires to procure items to be given out as prizes or giveaways, no member of the staff may provide such “free” materials to any patron until the Director has (i) confirmed such items comply with this Policy and (ii) provided notice to the Board of its intention to disburse or display such items. Reciprocal Lending Many items which are not in the collection are available to Library patrons, through established interlibrary loan practices. Concurrently, the Library participates in universal borrowing, established by the California Library Services Act, Article 4, California Education Code Section 18731, which states, “A California public library may participate in universal borrowing. A public library participating in universal borrowing shall not exclude the residents of any jurisdiction maintaining a public library.” This allows Newport Beach Public Library patrons direct access to materials housed in other participating public libraries in Orange County and throughout the State of California. Patron Rights The Library believes that the use of library materials is an individual and private matter. Parents and caregivers have the primary responsibility to guide and direct the use of library materials by the minor children under their care and supervision. In support of the above principles, in general the Library endorses the Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement as adopted by the American Library Association Council. 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, Attachment I to this Policy. 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 86 4 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”). The Appeal Application and the Procedures are set forth in Attachment II to this Policy. The Board also has the right to call for review any material contained in the Library, and request the Director and/or any staff member to participate in its review. Donations The Library only accepts materials in useable condition. All donations become the sole property of the Newport Beach Public Library upon receipt and cannot be returned. The Library reserves the right to decide whether donated items are added to the collection and to determine the conditions of display, storage and access. All donated materials added to the collection must meet the same collection criteria as purchased materials. Donated items not added to the collection are given to the Friends of the Newport Beach Public Library for sale in their bookstore. Proceeds from the Friends of the Library Bookstore directly benefit the Library. Collection Maintenance The Library and the Director are continually evaluating the collection and, on their own initiative, may take actions with respect to the collection based on this Policy. 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. As materials become worn, damaged, or lost, replacement will be based on whether or not: •The item is still available •There is an ongoing demand or need •Another item or format might better serve the same purpose •Updated, newer, or revised materials would better replace a given item •Another library system could better provide the item or a comparable item in the future [Attachment I – Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources] [Attachment II – Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees and Procedures for Patron’s Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees] Adopted - October 22, 1990 Amended - October 28, 1991 Amended - January 24, 1994 Reassigned - April 8, 2003 Corrected (Att. II) – October 10, 2006 87 5 Revisions Approved – November 16, 2010 Amendments Approved by City Council – September 27, 2011 Amended – August 20, 2018 Formerly I-16 Amended – August 17, 2020 Amended – August 15, 2022 Amended – September 18, 2023 Amended – October 16, 2023 Amended – January 16, 2024 Reviewed – May 20, 2024 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 May 20, 2024. 88 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 11 RECOMMENDATION: Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the FY 2024-25 operating budget for the Library. DISCUSSION: Section 708. Board of Library Trustees. Powers and Duties. There shall be a Board of Library Trustees consisting of five members which shall have the power and duty to: (c)Consider the annual budget for library purposes during the process of its preparation and make recommendations with respect thereto to the City Council and City Manager. In accordance with the above statement, staff has prepared the FY 2024-25 operating budget for the Library Services Department. The Library met with Assistant City Managers Seimone Jurjis and Tara Finnigan and Finance Budget Staff on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. The Library requested additional funding of $70,000 for new staff chairs for Central and Mariners. The chairs are original to each building (1994 and 2006, respectively). They have experienced considerable wear and tear. After review, the City found an alternative solution to providing the Library with newer chairs, so the budget request did not proceed forward. Staff also requested an additional $47,000 to support the Sculpture Exhibition and Cultural Arts Grants programs. However, at the February 2024 City Council Planning Session, City Council requested that the City Arts Commission reassess the Sculpture Exhibition program and recommend alternate means for future Sculpture Exhibition installations. As a result, funding in the Cultural Arts Division will remain unchanged except for a small adjustment in professional services. Due to contractual obligations with the employee work groups, personnel costs will increase in FY 2024- 25.In addition, the City’s Finance Department adjusted other budgets based on previous year’s spending and increased utilities costs. TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: FY 2024-25 Library Services Budget 89 FY 2024-25 Library Services Budget May 20, 2024 Page 2 2 of 2 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: FY 2024-25 City Manager Approved Budget 90 ATTACHMENT A PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2024-25 ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION FY 2024-25 CITY MANAGER APPROVED BUDGET FY 2023-24 ORIGINAL APPROPRIATION SALARY & BENEFITS SALARY FULL-TIME REGULAR 3,346,020 3,156,337 SALARY PART-TIME 1,419,780 1,279,860 BENEFITS 2,305,496 2,247,901 SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL****7,071,297 6,684,098 MAINT & OPERATION PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*215,453 207,488 UTILITIES 383,009 372,933 PROGRAMMING 2,000 2,000 SUPPLIES**82,800 82,800 LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 669,740 FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 209,698 209,698 TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***59,953 61,779 PERIPHERALS 5,000 5,000 INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,852,173 1,696,396 OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,492,508 3,320,515 LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL**** 10,563,804 10,004,613 *PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE **INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES ***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE ****SALARY & BENEFITS UNAVAILABLE AT TIME OF REPORT 1 90 ATTACHMENT A PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2024-25 ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION FY 2024-25 CITY MANAGER APPROVED BUDGET FY 2023-24 ORIGINAL APPROPRIATION CULTURAL ARTS PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 158,000 157,300 CITY GRANTS 30,000 30,000 PROGRAMMING 60,500 60,500 MAINTENANCE 4,248 4,248 GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES 2,340 2,340 CULTURAL ARTS BUDGET TOTAL 255,088 254,388 2 91 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 12 DISCUSSION: Marketing Specialist Maria Nicklin will provide the annual briefing on Library marketing and social media activities. 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: NBPL Marketing Overview TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Maria Nicklin, Marketing Specialist TITLE: Marketing and Social Networking Update 93 N B P L M A R K E T I N G O V E R V I E W ATTACHMENT A94 GOALS M A R K E T I N G INCREASE awareness of library offerings FILL library events and programs REACH new audiences BUILD the NBPL brand EDUCATE the community on why libraries matter 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.95 STRATEGY M A R K E T I N G The Library’s marketing strategy focuses on a combination of tactics working together to produce significant results. These tactics include digital marketing, media relations, printed collateral materials, purchased ads, email marketing, social media, digital signage, website banner ads/news, and more. The following page details those tactics along with a brief description of how each one works.96 TACTICS M A R K E T I N G EMAIL MARKETING E-blasts are sent out strategically to a list of approximately 34,000. We are focusing on list segmentation to more effectively deliver our messages. MEDIA RELATIONS Media are continually pitched stories on Library events, news, programming, and the most checked out books of the week. ADS By placing ads in publications that closely align with our target audience, we are assured to reach a specific audience on a specific day. SOCIAL MEDIA We post to Instagram and Facebook with timing aimed to most effectively support our programs. DIGITAL SIGNAGE Digital signs are created to support Library programming; these signs are posted and seen in all four NBPL locations. WEBSITE BANNER ADS/HOME PAGE NEWS Banner ads and news items highlighting programs are included on the home page of the Library’s website and are linked for more information. BANNERS Large vinyl banners are designed, printed, and posted to five strategic, high- traffic locations around Newport Beach. RACK CARDS/BROCHURES Racks cards and brochures are designed, printed, and distributed to support a variety of programs and Library offerings. PRINTED POSTERS/FLYERS We design/print/post/distribute posters and flyers to support all Library activities/programs. OASIS We work closely with Oasis to get relevant Library news out to their audience, which is done through their eBlasts, and through posters, flyers, and rack cards on site. TARGETED OUTREACH We research and compile targeted lists to reach specific audiences including schools, and more. THE WEEK IN REVIEW We submit copy to The Week in Review, a City news bulletin reaching both City employees and the general public. SCREEN SAVERS We highlight Library events and programs on screen savers throughout all branches of the Newport Beach Public Library. NEWPORT NAVIGATOR The Library has several pages in Newport Navigator, a quarterly City magazine highlighting all Newport Beach programs, classes and activities. Printed distribution is 43,000 along with thousands more in digital distribution. 97 STYLE GUIDE C O N S I S T E N C Y I N T H E N B P L B R A N D A few pages of a 20-page document providing NBPL design guidelines. The NBPL Style Guide helps to provide consistency in all of our marketing materials. BRAND N B P L B R A N D S W I T H I N A A few examples of the many brands within our NBPL brand. These are used for ongoing programs and effectively accomplish two main goals: 1) providing recognizable branding for our audiences, and 2) streamlining the marketing process. From the outside, a brand might seem like it's just made up of elements likefonts, logos and colors — but a brand is actually the entire identity ofa business. So why is branding important? Strong branding is yourorganization's personality. Effective branding providesrecognition. Our goal is to be immediately recognizable asNBPL. Branding supports marketing efforts. It helps us to fill rooms and informs our audience aboutlibrary offerings. A modern brand/voice helps us to underscore the relevance of NBPL today. NEWPO R T BEA CH PUBLIC L I B R A R Y E S T A B L I S H E D 1 9 2 0 THE LOOK S E T T I N G N B P L A P A R T T H R O U G H S T R O N G D E S I G N A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y The goal: words, images, and designs that motivate, inspire, and engage. BRANDING T H E I M P O R T A N C E O F 98 SPECIAL DELIVERY C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: A recently-launched program, Special Delivery falls under concierge library services -- bringing the library to patrons who cannot make it to us. The response has been overwhelmingly positive and we look forward to growing the program. The demand is there and we will continue to refine the program to best fit our patron’s needs. 99 WRITER’S WORKSHOP C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: The Writers Workshop is a follow up to the incredibly popular Storytellers series. It was created based on demand from patrons who wanted more in the writing space, and is an extension of the current Storytellers offerings. The Writer’s Workshop AT THE NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY The Storytellers Writing Workshops fill up within a day of being publicized. And the participants wanted more after the series ended. The Writer’s Workshop, launching fall of 2024, is the answer to that demand. It’s a weekly drop-in writing workshop facilitated by the same writer/author who teaches the Storyteller series. The Writer’s Workshop is a perfect example of the Library listening to the interests of its patrons. 100 SEED LIBRARY C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: A new and unexpected program focusing on native southern California plant species and funded by the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. An ideal marketing opportunity showing that we’re not just books -- as well as tapping into a popular Newport Beach/community hobby: gardening. This ongoing program will help to provide a multitude of marketing opportunities and position the Library as forward thinking, beyond just books. 101 MARKETING TO FAMILIES C A S E S T U D Y Overview: Findings: Conclusion: Strategically getting the word out to moms (and dads and caregivers) is the most effective way to fill children’s programs. We’ve begun monthly kid program-specific eBlasts and children’s quarterly eight-panel roll folds. The email open rate on the children’s segmented list is consistently at about 68% -- extremely high. And th children’s roll folds are one of our most popular brochures. The parent audience is very interested in program information and getting the word out helps to keep our children’s programs consistently full -- a win for both families and the Library. A sample eBlast (left) and eight panel roll fold (above). 102 0 50 100 150 200 250 2019 2022 2023 2024 SUNDAY MUSICALES C A S E S T U D Y Overview: A brief look at the growth in attendance at Sunday Musicales over the last few years -- from an average of 134 in 2019 to an average of 202 in 2024. Findings: Conclusion: The marketing/branding strategy that helped us to increase awareness/attendance is working, with steady growth over the last four years. Stay the course. (Note: the Friends Room max capacity is 200 and Musicale attendance has hit 240 in the past, with the Bamboo Courtyard utilized for overflow.)103 NUMBERS E M A I L M A R K E T I N G O P E N R A T E 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 E-mail open rate growth from 2020 (at 15%) to today (at 50%). The industry standard is 20%.104 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 2022 2023 2024 NUMBERS E M A I L S U B S C R I B E R S E-mail subscriber growth over the last year: from 29,890 one year ago, to 34,778 today.105 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 2021 2022 2023 2024 NUMBERS S O C I A L M E D I A Growing our social media audience.106 CHALLENGES O F L I B R A R I E S T O D A Y Relevance is one of the biggest issues facing libraries today. Unless addressed, libraries will continue to experience outdated perceptions, shrinking usership, and funding threats. Developing interesting programming and modern offerings is a big part of the solution. But if the community isn’t aware of the interesting programming and modern offerings, we fail to move the needle. That’s where effective marketing, communications, and branding comes in. I’m a one-person marketing department with more than 25 years of marketing experience in the corporate, agency, and nonprofit worlds --- and a deep love of books and libraries.107 NEXT STEPS G O A L S F O R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5 Continue to refine the NBPL brand Identify, engage, and win over new audiences Continue to support the Library in all of its goals Identify measurable results Implement surveys to help keep a finger on the pulse of what the community is interested in 108 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 13 OVERVIEW: The Newport Beach Public Library (Library) offers an annual Summer Reading Program (SRP) for children, teens (TSRP), and adults (ASRP). SRP is a community- and patron-focused program that spans several weeks during the summer. SRP is planned and prepared over several months and across several staff departments. The marketing campaign typically starts in early spring, with outreach to schools beginning shortly thereafter. SRP incorporates four primary components: reading challenges for all ages; free family events; marketing and outreach; and teen volunteers. Fiscal Impact SRP is generously funded by the Friends of the Library and the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. Their financial support covers all expenses for the program including performances; prizes; supplies; and marketing materials. Summer Reading Challenge For early learners, the goal of the Library's SRP reading challenge is to help promote early literacy skills, foster a love of reading, and support the foundations of school readiness through language and reading development. For students K-12, the goal is to enhance student reading skills over the summer break and avoid summer reading loss (also known as the "summer slide.") With SRP reading challenges, the Library aims to ensure students stay engaged throughout the summer; experience greater gains in their academic performance; and perform better academically. For adults, the program promotes family engagement and offers an opportunity to read for fun. The Library uses a variety of resources and tools to help in preparing materials for the SRP reading challenges. iRead Reading Programs SRP themes are picked by a nationwide collaborative, iRead Reading Programs (iRead). iRead is a flexible, nonprofit reading program designed by librarians featuring appealing incentives; compelling and adaptable themes; and, a comprehensive resource guide full of ideas and reproducibles. Each participating library receives this free resource guide, with other themed materials available for purchase. iRead is timely, cost-efficient, and a high-quality resource for Library staff as they plan and prepare for SRP. Several peer libraries in the county use iRead for theme and incentives. The Library adopted iRead themes in 2013, using them annually each year thereafter. This year’s theme is Read, Renew, Repeat. TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Annika Helmuth, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator TITLE: Summer Reading Program Update 109 Summer Reading Program Update May 20, 2024 Page 2 Beanstack Beanstack is the leading reader-tracking platform for schools and public libraries. It is available in both a web and app-based format. Their mission, purpose, and goals aim to help educators and librarians encourage reading by making it easy to create and promote reading challenges for their communities. Beanstack offers several tools to achieve this including a customizable interface with enterprise-level software, a highly rated mobile app, easy-to-use and customizable templates, a customizable data and insights dashboard, and continuous management of reader accounts, including seamless integration of off-line participants. Beanstack also integrates iRead challenge themes, art, designs, and resources. Beanstack is a valuable tool that streamlines summer reading programs. Beanstack is currently used by more than 10,000 public libraries and schools, with more than 13.8 million readers worldwide. Orange County Public Libraries in addition to several other peer libraries in the county also offer Beanstack for SRP reading challenges. The Library adopted Beanstack for reading challenges in 2021. The interface tools outlined above are integral to the success of the Library’s SRP, and most importantly, the accessibility of logging for patrons and the seamless integration of customizable templates, reports, and account management for staff. Since launching, over 5,000 Library patrons have registered on Beanstack, collectively logging over 150,000 books and over 1.5 million minutes of reading. Library staff use Beanstack for all three summer reading programs, meticulously drafting custom reading challenges to meet summer reading goals. Challenges in Beanstack are based on logging reading, completing activities, and earning digital badges. Badges within each SRP reading challenge are created by Library staff using iRead graphics. Children’s Summer Reading Challenge Children from babies through sixth grade may take part in Children’s SRP. Children may read on their own or have someone read to them. Children and their parents log minutes read, complete bonus activities, and write book reviews to earn prizes. A paper game sheet is available for those who prefer. Children complete the program upon reading 600 minutes. Teen Summer Reading Challenge Current or incoming 7th-12th graders can participate in TSRP. Participants register on Beanstack and then read at least three books to complete the program. Participants also have the choice of submitting book reviews for added participation. Staff offer off-line logging for teens who prefer it. Adult Summer Reading Challenge Adults are invited to take part in ASRP. Participants may register online with Beanstack. A paper option is also available for those who prefer it. Participants then begin logging every 20 minutes of reading. ASRP participants complete the program when they reach 600 minutes of reading. Prizes Logging in Beanstack allows participants to earn digital badges. Earning digital badges encourages readers to track and build reading habits. These badges also motivate readers to participate by highlighting their accomplishments. In addition to earning digital badges, the Library offers rewards and prizes that motivate Library patrons to read throughout the summer. These include prize books, small prizes, surprise rewards (like prize drawings), completion prizes, and public recognition. 110 Summer Reading Program Update May 20, 2024 Page 3 All participants are offered the opportunity to choose a new paperback book upon registration. Paperback books are selected and ordered by Library staff. At Central Library and Mariners Branch, children’s books are available in the Children’s Room with teen and adult books available in separate locations at the Reference Desk. At the Balboa and Corona del Mar branches, children’s, teen and adult books are available at the Reference Desk, separated by their designated program. Participants have their choice of any available paperback book in their program. The Library also offers an Opening Day Prize Drawing for child participants. Participating children who register on the first day of SRP are entered into a prize drawing for a chance to win a Summer Reading Fun goody bag. Children also earn a small toy prize for every 100 minutes read (up to 600 minutes.) Upon completion of all 600 minutes, child participants are entered into the Grand Prize Drawing for a chance to win a gift card to Fashion Island. New to this year’s SRP, all child participants who complete the program will also receive a completion prize and certificate. There are also weekly prize drawings for submitting book reviews (Children’s SRP and TSRP) and completing literacy- or literary-based activities (Children’s SRP.) Every book review submitted, or activity completed, is a chance for the participant to win a gift card to a local business. This year’s Children’s SRP gift card options include CdM Gelato, Jan’s Health Bar, Golden Spoon, See’s Candies, Jack’s Surfboards, Ruby’s Diner, Salt & Straw, Susie Cakes, Sprinkles, Barnes & Noble, and Target. For TSRP, gift card prizes are decided with input from the Young Adult Advisory Committee (YAAC.) This year, TSRP gift card prizes include movie tickets, Starbucks, Chipotle, and Salt & Straw. All teen participants who complete TSRP earn a goody bag and an entry into the Grand Prize Drawing for a chance to win a gift card to Fashion Island. ASRP participants have an opportunity to also win a gift card to Fashion Island. For every 100 minutes read, ASRP participants earn an entry ticket into the Grand Prize Drawing, with the chance to earn up to six entries. Summer Reading Events To enhance the summer reading experience and encourage patrons to visit throughout the summer, the Library offers free family activities and entertaining performances at all four library locations. This year, the Library is hosting 32 programs and 63 storytimes in celebration of SRP. For children and families, this includes opening day activities; a performance by POWERHOUSE!!!, a group of national recognized percussive dancers, an animal show with Doodlebugs, a dinosaur adventure puppet show, an interactive chemistry show, a magic show, and in-house hosted craft programs. This year’s craft themes are wildlife and habitat based: Desert Habitat Crafts; Under the Sea Crafts; and Forest Animal Crafts. Many of the SRP performers are selected during the Orange County Performer’s Showcase held in January each year. The showcase provides libraries with the opportunity to meet new and seasoned performers in the area and evaluate performers’ ability to enhance library services to local communities. No other comparable showcase exists in Southern California. Performance contracts are established shortly thereafter. For teens, a newly created Teen Summer Reading Book Club is planned. Meeting three times during the summer, Teen Summer Reading Book Club is an opportunity for teens to discuss what they have been reading lately, reflect on books they have loved in the past, and take part in bookish activities. Snacks are also provided during this fun literary event. 111 Summer Reading Program Update May 20, 2024 Page 4 For adults, participants who complete ASRP are invited to attend the ASRP Wrap Party. The ASRP Wrap Party offers an opportunity for participants to meet with other readers and discuss their favorite summer reads. It is an event full of book recommendations, added prize drawings, and community fun. Marketing and Outreach Marketing SRP is extensive and varied, with the goal of reaching all areas of the community through both print and digital media. The list of marketing materials for SRP includes bookmarks, Beanstack graphics, web page content, PeachJar digital flyers (for the Newport-Mesa school district), event brochures, paper game sheets, paper book review forms, banners (at each library location and a variety of community sites), website advertising, event posters, social media posting, and both print and digital press releases. Having ready-made yet customizable graphics and adaptable template layouts from both iRead and Beanstack save staff a considerable amount of time while also allowing for the incorporation of the Library’s brand. This results in a program that is recognizable and cohesive in personality and look. School Visits To help spread the word and get students excited about SRP, Youth Services staff visit local schools and present to students, parents, and teachers during special events and flag deck ceremonies. These visits begin in early Spring and continue through the end of the school year. This year, Library staff were invited to speak at several elementary, middle, and high schools in the area. These visits also allow Library staff an opportunity to connect with school librarians and library media technicians to learn how the Library can best meet the summer reading goals of their students. Many school staff express gratitude for the resources the Library provide and note how often they hear from their students that visit the Library regularly. At the end of the summer, local elementary schools are provided with a list of students who took part in the Children’s SRP reading challenge. These students are then celebrated and specially recognized for achieving their reading goals upon returning to school in the Fall. Teen Volunteers SRP also supports a robust teen volunteer program. Teen SRP volunteers help with Children’s SRP and are recruited starting in late Spring through volunteer orientations. After orientation, Teen SRP volunteers must also attend a thorough small group training with staff. During their training, the teens go through test scenarios to make sure they understand how to help participants with registration and prize redemption. The typical teen SRP volunteer will work a 2-3 hour shift the same time every week. Closing From planning to execution, SRP is a collaborative effort involving multiple departments and community organizations. With that in mind, Library staff are continuously evaluating and reimagining SRP to ensure community needs are being met. This comprehensive approach ensures we are meeting SRP goals and patron expectations, while maximizing impact and relevance within the community. 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). 112 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 14 OVERVIEW: The Newport Beach Public Library’s Media Lab opened to the public in November 2013 as part of the City Hall project and library expansion. The Media Lab equipment and software provide professional-grade services to meet the needs of the community. Staff continually looks for ways to improve the patrons’ experience by recommending new software and hardware and offering classes. MEDIA LAB: The Media Lab, which is comprised of computer workstations and the Sound Lab, provides specialized software and equipment. The age range of the primary users is 15-35 years old. The Media Lab introduces a segment of the population to public libraries that are generally less inclined to rely on library services. The use of the Media Lab resources is free, thanks to generous funding from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation. This year, the Library, with help from City IT, was able to restore the popular vinyl and cassette digital converter station, purchasing new software and hardware. The microphone in the Sound Lab was replaced after the original started to fail. A new keyboard stand and bench were also added to the Sound Lab. Patrons have access to specialized software such as: Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Flash, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Audition, Final Cut Pro, iMovie, iPhoto, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Encore, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Contribute, Adobe Fireworks, Adobe Creative Cloud, AutoCAD, and Adobe InDesign. Patrons can use workstations to create a movie or comic, mix an album, edit film and video, build a website, and aid in graphic design. The Media Lab offers equipment and computer software designed to make digital copies of VHS tapes, audio cassettes, LPs, photos, slides, film (stills only), and negatives. Children’s staff offered a very popular Coding For Kids program in April and utilized the Media Lab to teach the classes. Literacy Services also utilized the space in March to train tutors on their new data gathering software, America Learns. TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: Media Lab Update 113 Media Lab Update May 20, 2024 Page 2 TECH TOYS: The Tech Toys collection of circulating equipment, launched in May 2016, continues to circulate well. The Library recently added some sound recording and lighting equipment for checkout. The digital camera was upgraded to a newer model. 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). 114 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 15 RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the new Balboa Branch Library as the site placement for the sculpture, A Novel Idea, by Craig Gray. DISCUSSION: A Novel Idea, by Craig Gray, is one of the works featured in Phase VII of the Newport Beach Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park. Newport Beach resident Nancy Gardner has acquired the piece and is offering it on permanent loan to the City of Newport Beach. The City Arts Commission approved the permanent loan of the sculpture at its April 11, 2024 meeting. At their May 9, 2024 meeting, the City Arts Commission approved to recommend that the sculpture be placed at the new Balboa Branch Library location. City Council approved a design concept layout for the new facility at its May 14, 2024 meeting. The approved design includes a Library Entry Plaza. The City Arts Commission recommends that A Novel Idea be installed in the Library Entry Plaza upon construction completion of the new facility. Staff have coordinated with the City’s Public Works Department to store the sculpture during the construction project. Storing the piece, rather than temporarily siting the work, will reduce costs and prevent risk of damage by decreasing the amount of times the sculpture must be disassembled, relocated, and assembled. Staff will present this recommendation to City Council for final approval. 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: A Novel Idea by Craig Gray ATTACHMENT B: Balboa Branch Library Design Concept TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: Approval of Site Placement for A Novel Idea by Craig Gray 115 ATTACHMENT A ARTIST NAME: CRAIG GRAY A Novel Idea Size: 5’ x 1’ 4” x 1’ 6” Medium: Granite Image: 116 BALBOA BRANCH LIBRARY—FLOORPLAN OPTION 1A ATTACHMENT B - Balboa Branch Library Design Concept117 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT May 20, 2024 Agenda Item No. 16 RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the acceptance of donations from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation and from Harbor View Elementary Associated Student Body. DISCUSSION: The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation fundraised for donations on behalf of the Newport Beach Public Library in order to pay for the popular Parks Pass program. Currently this program is funded through the California State Library, but staff anticipates the funding will not continue. The Foundation donated $10,000 to buy 50 passes so the Library can continue this program; $5,000 was donated by the public and $5,000 was a matching gift from the Foundation. Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees accept this donation. If accepted, the money will go into the Library Materials Budget to purchase new Park Passes when the state program ends. Each year, the students in the Harbor View Elementary Associated Student Body organize two candygram fundraisers for the school. Any funds raised over their targeted amount are then donated to an organization chosen by the students. This year, the group selected the Newport Beach Public Library to receive the donation. The students presented the Library with a check for $1,200. This gift will be used to augment the Library’s children’s collections. Staff recommends the acceptance of this donation by the Board of Library Trustees. If accepted, the donation will be allocated into Library Materials operating account. 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). TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES FROM: Library Services Department Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director (949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov PREPARED BY: Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager TITLE: Acceptance of Donations 118 Page 1 of 3 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Library Lecture Hall (WITTE HALL) Monthly Project Status Report May 01, 2024 SCHEDULE The demo contractor completed the site hardscape demo for building and utility work. The site over-excavation was completed for the utility area. The underground plumbing subcontractor mobilized and started installation of sewer and storm drain onsite. Next month, the contractor will finish site underground utilities. Once all underground pipe have been installed the grading contractor will come back to the site to demo the existing utilities and OX building pad. Activity April May June Site Survey Hardscape Demo Clear & Grub Over-Excavation for utilities Underground Storm Drain Underground Water Underground Sewer Existing site lighting underground relocation Demo Existing UG utilities Over-Excavate the Building pad BUDGET • Contract Price: $19,068,000 • Change Orders to Date: $0 • Owner Contingency: $1,906,800 • Owner Contingency Remaining: $1,906,800 Progress Photos 119 Page 2 of 3 GRIFFIN’S FOCUSED TASKS FOR OCTOBER 120 Page 3 of 3 Griffin will continue to focus on the following: 1. Monitoring the project progress, manpower and all work activities. 2. Reviewing and analyzing the Contractor’s Monthly Schedule Update. 3. Reviewing and processing the Contractor’s monthly pay application. 4. Reviewing the contractor’s RFI’s and Submittals as well as ensuring timely and accurate responses for RFIs and Submittals’ reviews. 5. Coordinating with the design team on issues that arise in the field. 6. Reviewing, analyzing and negotiating the contractor’s change order proposals. 7. Managing the project’s budget and processing change orders within the allowed construction contingency. 8. Providing quality assurance for the work being conducted by the Contractor and its subcontractors. 9. Ensuring compliance with all safety regulations and identifying any potential hazards on-site. 10. Ensuring Contractor is maintaining BMP measures. 11. Verifying and tracking the Contractor’s procurement schedule, supply chain progress, subcontractors’ manpower, materials, and equipment availability. 12. Engaging with the project team for constructability and value engineering opportunities. 13. Identifying project Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) to maximize construction efficiencies and mitigate potential issues. 14. Highlighting awareness of Force Majeure contract clauses language & provisions 121 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: May 14, 2024 Re: Library Foundation Report 1.The Foundation’s six Spring Financial Literacy Workshops end on Monday, May 20. The programs have been very successful, attracting an average of 75 attendees. I have introduced the sessions at three other Orange County locales, and they have 10-15 attending. The Foundation markets these Financial Literacy Workshops aggressively, resulting in a large attendance and attracting people to the Library. 2.All four Witte Lecture weekends sold out both the Friday night and Saturday afternoon lectures. The 2025 season Witte Lectures will be announced in the June edition of Bookmark Magazine. 3.All four Library Live presentations were sold out this season. Library Live has two presentations in the Fall and two in the Spring. The 2024-2025 season of Library Live will be announced in the June Bookmark Magazine. 4.Due to speaker contractual agreements, the Witte Lectures and Library Live video recordings will be available only to Foundation members for 90 days. Foundation membership fulfills the contractual agreement for the video recordings to be behind a paywall. 5.Season passes for both Witte Lectures and Library Live go on sale July 1 for Foundation members. Over half of the house for both Witte and Library Live this past season were season passes. 6.All Medicine in Our Backyard and Spotlight on Science video recordings are always available for free on the Foundation’s website. 7.The Foundation presented 44 programs this past season, 32 of which were free to the public. Total attendance for all Foundation programs will exceed 5,500. 8.The new program this season, Spotlight on Science, had three presentations, highlighting groundbreaking research by UCI scientists. Next season there will be four presentations, two in the Fall and two in the Spring. The presenters will include UCI 122 2 scientists, but also other scientists from the region and nationally. James Bullock, UCI Dean of Physical Sciences, is the scientific advisor to the program. 9. The Book Discussion Group continues to grow in attendance, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The group averages over 40 attendees. 10. The Foundation has now raised $9.1 million in gifts and gift commitments toward its $12 million goal, which is 50% of the cost of the construction of Witte Hall. The Foundation deposited $7.1 million into an escrow account to initiate the construction of the Hall. a. Due to the Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Newport Beach, The Foundation will need to raise and deposit to the City the additional $2.9 million by the opening of the Hall. b. I have access to the construction camera and every two weeks I update the construction video on the Witte Hall webpage on our website. https://nbplf.foundation/witte-hall/ 11. The May Board Meeting of the Library Foundation was on Monday, May 13. The fiscal 2024 financials were reviewed. A new auditor was selected, Davis Farr, and the audit will begin on August 1. a. The Foundation posts its audit and IRS Form 990 on its website under About/Financial Responsibility. The Foundation has a Platinum rating from Candid for transparency and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator, its highest rating. b. The Foundation is funding the capital campaign—salaries, campaign advisors, printing, social media, events, from its own budget. This is a significant expense funded by Foundation contributors and will negatively impact the Foundation’s FY2024 expenses. 12. The Foundation is continuing to promote legacy giving to the Foundation. The Foundation established The Elizabeth and John Stahr Legacy Society to honor those who have left an Estate Gift to the Foundation and those who have stated the intent to provide one in the future. The goal of this campaign is to build the endowment to $5 million, assuring an annual contribution to the Library of over $200,000. 13. Library Giving Day was April 3, and the specific request was funding for the Library to purchase 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 next year due to its budget constraints. The Foundation contributed $10,000 to the Library to fund the purchase of 50 State Park Passes for 2025. 14. The Foundation anticipates a request from the Library for additional funding next month. 15. The Summer Solstice Celebration will be held on June 12 in the Courtyard and Friends Room. This event is for Library Leadership contributors ($1,000 plus), new members of the Foundation and those that have not contributed in the past ten years, Foundation Board and Library Trustees, Library staff leadership, and City officials. a. Jene Witte, founder of the Witte Lecture Series and its continuing supporter, will be honored at the event. A special fund for gifts in her honor will be established to support the Witte Lectures. b. Guest speakers will be wildfire photographer Stuart Palley in conversation with Clare Frank, the first female fire commander for CalFire and author of Burnt. 123 Library Bill of Rights | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill[05/22/2024 11:17:27 AM] Quick Links Contact Congress Library Bill of Rights About ALA ALA Connect ALA Websites Job Board Join | Renew Donate Login Membership Advocacy & Issues Conferences & Events Awards & Grants Education & Careers Tools & Resources Library Bill of Rights | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill[05/22/2024 11:17:27 AM] The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services. I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation. II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval. III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment. IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas. V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views. VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use. VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information. Menu Library Bill of Rights | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill[05/22/2024 11:17:27 AM] ALA Logo 225 N Michigan Ave., Ste 1300 Chicago, IL 60601 1.800.545.2433 OFFICES NEWS & PRESS Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; January 29, 2019. Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996. Although the Articles of the Library Bill of Rights are unambiguous statements of basic principles that should govern the service of all libraries, questions do arise concerning application of these principles to specific library practices. See the documents designated by the Intellectual Freedom Committee as Interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights. EMAIL PRINT CITE SHARE THIS PAGE Library Bill of Rights | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill[05/22/2024 11:17:27 AM] Donate ALA Websites | Privacy Policy | User Guidelines | Site Index | Feedback | Work at ALA © 1996–2024 American Library Association DIVISIONS WORK AT ALA ROUND TABLES SHOP COMMITTEES The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] Quick Links Contact Congress The Freedom to Read Statement About ALA ALA Connect ALA Websites Job Board Join | Renew Donate Login Membership Advocacy & Issues Conferences & Events Awards & Grants Education & Careers Tools & Resources The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read. Menu The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] On the 70th anniversary of the Freedom to Read Statement, we are asking for individuals, authors, organizations, and associations to sign on to support the freedom to read. TAKE ACTION: SIGN YOUR NAME! The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read. Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions about what they read and believe. We The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage of a free press in order to be "protected" against what others think may be bad for them. We believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression. These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome scrutiny by government officials. Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement of an orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able to deal with controversy and difference. Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into organized collections. We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a creative culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of limiting the range and variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture depend. We believe that every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish and to circulate, in order to preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and librarians have a profound responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it possible for the readers to choose freely from a variety of offerings. The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities that accompany these rights. The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] We therefore affirm these propositions: It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or considered dangerous by the majority. Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every new thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to maintain themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges the established orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly strengthened by the freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting opinions offered freely to them. To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark the end of the democratic process. Furthermore, only through the constant activity of weighing and selecting can the democratic mind attain the strength demanded by times like these. We need to know not only what we believe but why we believe it. Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be published or circulated. Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available knowledge and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning. They do not foster education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought. The people should have the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than those that may be held by any single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is wrong that what one can read should be confined to what another thinks proper. It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author. No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private lives of its creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to whom it will not listen, whatever they may have to say. There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to achieve artistic expression. The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking? We cut off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life. Parents and teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of experiences in life to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help them learn to think critically for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to be discharged simply by preventing them from reading works for which they are not yet prepared. In these matters values differ, and values cannot be legislated; nor can machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one group without limiting the freedom of others. It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous. The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to determine by authority what is good or bad for others. It presupposes that individuals must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans do not need others to do their thinking for them. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people's freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information. It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral, or the aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of another individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for themselves what they wish to read, and each group is free to determine what it will recommend to its freely associated members. But no group has the right to take the law into its own hands, and to impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other members of a democratic society. Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the accepted and the inoffensive. Further, democratic societies are more safe, free, and creative when the free flow of public information is not restricted by governmental prerogative or self-censorship. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to read by providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression. By the exercise of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] that the answer to a "bad" book is a good one, the answer to a "bad" idea is a good one. The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for that reader's purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive provision of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said. Books are the major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and the principal means of its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires of all publishers and librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all Americans the fullest of their support. We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours. This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the American Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970 consolidated with the American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of American Publishers. Adopted June 25, 1953, by the ALA Council and the AAP Freedom to Read Committee; amended January 28, 1972; January 16, 1991; July 12, 2000; June 30, 2004. A Joint Statement by: American Library Association Association of American Publishers Subsequently endorsed by: American Booksellers for Free Expression The Association of American University Presses The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] ALA Logo 225 N Michigan Ave., Ste 1300 Chicago, IL 60601 1.800.545.2433 OFFICES NEWS & PRESS DIVISIONS The Children's Book Council Freedom to Read Foundation National Association of College Stores National Coalition Against Censorship National Council of Teachers of English The Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression EMAIL PRINT CITE SHARE THIS PAGE The Freedom to Read Statement | ALA https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement[05/22/2024 11:17:35 AM] Donate ALA Websites | Privacy Policy | User Guidelines | Site Index | Feedback | Work at ALA © 1996–2024 American Library Association WORK AT ALA ROUND TABLES SHOP COMMITTEES FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY RECEIVED: RESPONDED: BLT MEETING: ATTACHMENT I PATRON’S REQUEST FOR EVALUATION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES We appreciate your interest in the materials which have been selected for inclusion in the collection of the Newport Beach Public Library. If you have a concern about a specific item, we would appreciate your assistance in addressing the matter. The staff will evaluate the material and forward a recommendation to the Library Services Director (“Director”). This completed form and corresponding response from the Director will be included in the Board of Library Trustees agenda packet. Print Name Date Address City State Zip Phone Resources on which you were commenting: Book Audiovisual Resource Magazine Content of Library Program Newspaper Other 1.Title 2.Author/Producer 3.What brought this title to your attention? 4.Have you seen or heard reviews of this material? 5.Please comment on the resource as a whole. 6. Please note your specific concerns. 7. What resource(s) would you suggest, to provide additional information on this topic? 8. What action are you requesting the Library to consider (remove, relocate, add, other)? Please fill out this form in its entirety and return to Central Library Administration Office, Attention: Administrative Assistant (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. Please use the back of this form if additional space is needed. Thank you for taking the additional time to complete this form. Your request for evaluation will be given careful consideration and a response provided. Newport Beach Public Library Newport Beach, California Corrected - October 10, 2006 Revised – November 16, 2010 Revised – August 20, 2018 Revised – August 17, 2020 Reviewed – August 15, 2022 Revised – September 18, 2023 Revised – October 16, 2023 Revised – January 16, 2024 FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY RECEIVED: APPEAL DATE: 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 Address City State Zip Phone Email Resource on which you are appealing: Book Audiovisual Resource Magazine Content of Library Program Newspaper Other 1.Title 2.Author/Producer 3.Date of Director’s Decision 4.Briefly explain why you disagree with the Director’s Decision (attach additional pages, if necessary): 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. Newport Beach Public Library Newport Beach, California Patron Signature Date APPEAL PROCEDURES FOR PATRON’S APPEAL OF EVALUATION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES TO THE BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES 1) A Patron may appeal the Director’s Decision to the Board of Library Trustees (“Board”) on the form entitled “Application for Appeal of Evaluation of Library Resources to the Board of Library Trustees” (“Appeal Form”). 2) The completed Appeal Form must be received by the Director at the Central Library Administrative Office within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date of the Board’s meeting at which the Director’s Decision is presented to the Board. Otherwise, the Director’s Decision shall be final and unappealable. If the Appeal Form is not completed as required by its terms, the appeal will be deemed incomplete in which case the Director’s Decision shall be final. 3) Following receipt of a completed Appeal Form, the Director shall schedule a date, time, and location of a hearing by the Board to consider the appeal. The Director will use his/her reasonable efforts to schedule the hearing within sixty (60) calendar days from the date of the Board’s meeting at which the Director’s Decision is presented to the Board. 4) The Library Staff and the Patron shall respectively present their positions to the Board subject to time limitations imposed by the Board in its sole and absolute discretion. Members of the public will also be provided with an opportunity to comment at the hearing subject to time limitations imposed by the Board in its sole and absolute discretion. 5) If there are multiple appeals of the same subject item, all appeals of that item will be consolidated into a single appeal, and, as provided in Section 4 above, members of the public will be provided with an opportunity to be heard on the subject item. 6) Following the presentations and public comment, the Board shall provide final resolution of the matter at the meeting or may take additional time in its sole and absolute discretion. Should the Patron not be present at the hearing, the Board shall provide final resolution in their absence. The resolution by the Board is final. The Director shall provide written notice of the final resolution to the Patron. 7) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in these Appeal Procedures or otherwise in the Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2), the Board’s decision as to a specific resource (whether the item be a book, magazine, newspaper, audiovisual resource, content of a Library program, or other resource) shall be final and not subject to additional appeal for four (4) years. Adopted – January 16, 2024