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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-24-2025-BLT-AGENDA PACKETCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES AGENDA
Civic Center Council Chambers
100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Monday, February 24, 2025 - 5:00 PM
Board of Library Trustees Members:
Chase Rief, Chair
Antonella Castro, Vice Chair
Dorothy Larson, Secretary
Lauren Kramer, Trustee
Meghan Murray, Trustee
Staff Members:
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
Francine Jacome, Administrative Support Specialist
The Board of Library Trustees meeting is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act. Among other things, the Brown Act
requires that the Board of Library Trustees agenda be posted at least seventy-two (72) hours in advance of each regular
meeting and that the public be allowed to comment on agenda items before the Commission and items not on the
agenda but are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Board of Library Trustees. The Chair may limit public
comments to a reasonable amount of time, generally three (3) minutes per person.
The public can submit questions and comments in writing for the Board of Library Trustees to consider. Please send
them by email to the Library Services Department at LibraryBoard@newportbeachca.gov by Sunday, February 23, at 5:00
p.m. to give the Board of Library Trustees time to consider your comments. All emails will be made part of the record.
The City of Newport Beach’s goal is to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an
attendee or a participant at this meeting, you will need special assistance beyond what is normally provided, we will
attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner. Please contact Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director, at
least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting to inform us of your particular needs and to determine if accommodation
is feasible at (949) 717-3801 or mhartson@newportbeachca.gov.
NOTICE REGARDING PRESENTATIONS REQUIRING USE OF CITY EQUIPMENT
Any presentation requiring the use of the City of Newport Beach’s equipment must be submitted to the Library Services
Department 24 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
I.CALL MEETING TO ORDER
II.ROLL CALL
III.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IV.CHAIR'S WELCOME
V.NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
The City provides a yellow sign-in card to assist in the preparation of the minutes. The
completion of the card is not required in order to address the Board of Library Trustees. If the
optional sign-in card has been completed, it should be placed in the tray provided.
The Board of Library Trustees of Newport Beach welcomes and encourages community
participation. Public comments are generally limited to three (3) minutes per person to allow
everyone to speak. Written comments are encouraged as well. The Board of Library Trustees
has the discretion to extend or shorten the time limit on agenda or non-agenda items. As a
courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
February 24, 2025
Page 2
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
VI.CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under CONSENT CALENDAR are considered to be routine and will all be
enacted by one motion in the form listed below. Board of Library Trustees have received
detailed staff reports on each of the items recommending an action. There will be no separate
discussion of these items prior to the time the Board of Library Trustees votes on the motion
unless members of the Board of Library Trustees request specific items to be discussed and/or
removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Members of the public who wish to
discuss a Consent Calendar item should come forward upon invitation by the Chair.
A.Consent Calendar Items
Minutes of the January 21, 2025 Board of Library Trustees Meeting (pp. 5-10)1.
DRAFT OF MINUTES
Patron Comments (pp. 11-13)2.
Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests
received from patrons.
PATRON COMMENTS
Expenditure Report (p. 14)3.
Monthly expenditure status of the library's operating expenses, services, salaries,
and benefits by department.
EXPENDITURES
Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List (p. 15)4.
List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of Library
Trustees.
MONITORING LIST
VII.CURRENT BUSINESS
A.Items for Review
Display and Distribution of Materials Policy (NBPL 8)(pp. 16-22)5.
Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review Library Policy NBPL 8,
Display and Distribution of Materials.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENTS A-C
February 24, 2025
Page 3
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Annual Budget - Preliminary Review (pp. 23-27)6.
Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the preliminary
Library operating budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENTS A-B
Arts and Culture Update (pp. 28-30)7.
Staff will present the annual report on the activities of the Cultural Arts Division.
STAFF REPORT
Children's Summer Reading Program Update (pp. 31-32)8.
Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth will provide an update of the
Summer Reading Program for summer 2025.
STAFF REPORT
Children's Library Special Section Update9.
The Children's Library Special Section Ad Hoc Subcommittee will provide an update
regarding their recommendations for creating a special section in the Children's
Library for sensitive materials.
Library Activities (pp. 33-42)10.
Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics.
STAFF REPORT
B.Monthly Reports
Library Foundation Liaison Report (pp. 43-44)11.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Library Foundation Board meeting.
FOUNDATION REPORT
Friends of the Library Liaison Report12.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Pals4pal Liaison Report13.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Pals4pal Board meeting.
February 24, 2025
Page 4
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
VIII.PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Public comments are invited, and non-agenda items generally considered to be within the
subject matter jurisdiction of the Board of Library Trustees. Speakers must limit comments to
three (3) minutes. Before speaking, we invite, but do not require, you to state your name for the
record. The Board of Library Trustees has the discretion to extend or shorten the speakers’
time limit on agenda or non-agenda items, provided the time limit adjustment is applied equally
to all speakers. As a courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
IX.BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION
ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM) OR RECONSIDERATION
X.ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Board of Library Trustees Civic Center Council Chambers 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA Meeting Minutes Tuesday, January 21, 2025 – 5:00 PM I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Chase Rief called to order the Board of Library Trustees meeting for January 21, 2025.
II. ROLL CALL Trustees Present: Chair Chase Rief, Vice Chair Antonella Castro, Secretary Dorothy Larson, Trustee Lauren Kramer, Trustee Meghan Murray
Trustees Absent: None Staff Present: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager Andrew Kachaturian, Adult Services Coordinator
Annika Helmuth, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Francine Jacome, Administrative Support Specialist III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Trustee Meghan Murray led the Pledge of Allegiance. IV. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC - Waived
COMMENTS BY CHAIR
Chair Rief appointed Secretary Dorothy Larson and Trustee Murray to a new ad hoc
subcommittee to explore creating a special sensitive-subject section of the Children’s
Library.
Chair Rief noted Secretary Larson and Trustee Lauren Kramer met with Library Services
Director Melissa Hartson to discuss the upcoming budget.
V. CONSENT CALENDAR
Administrative Support Specialist Francine Jacome read the Consent Calendar Notice to the public.
Chair Rief inquired whether any Trustees had requests to pull an item from the Consent Calendar. A. Consent Calendar Items
1. Minutes of the November 18, 2024 Board of Library Trustees Meeting
5
Board of Library Trustees Meeting January 21, 2025
Page 2
2.Patron Comments
Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests received
from patrons.
3.Expenditure Status Report
Monthly expenditure status of the library’s operating expenses, services, salaries, and
benefits by department.
4.Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List
List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of Library Trustees.
Chair Rief opened the item to public comments, there were none.
Chair Rief received and filed the report.
Motion made by Trustee Lauren Kramer, seconded by Secretary Dorothy Larson, and carried 5-0-0-0 to approve the Consent Calendar Items 1-4.
AYES: Rief, Castro, Kramer, Larson, Murray NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES:
VII.CURRENT BUSINESS
A.Items for Review
5. Internet Use Policy (NBPL 5)
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees review and approve minorchanges to Library Policy NBPL 5, Internet Use Policy.
Chair Rief, with Board agreement, noted there was no need for a staff report as proposed changes are minimal.
Chair Rief opened the item for public comments.
Jim Mosher, a Newport Beach resident, stated this policy can be combined with the policy under review for Item 6. He stated it should not be required for internet use to require a library card number since most users have a device of their own able to connect without a library card. There also should be clarity about whether adult patrons can request removal of the filtering.
Chair Rief closed public comments.
6
Board of Library Trustees Meeting January 21, 2025
Page 3
In response to Secretary Larson’s inquiries, Library Services Director Hartson confirmed you do need a library card to log in using the Library’s devices. Staff evaluates requests
on an individual basis to allow access to blocked websites for research purposes. The Library’s wireless internet adheres to the Library’s policies. Certain topics make it difficult for the Library’s filtering software to determine if the website is legitimate or not for
research purposes. Motion made by Trustee Lauren Kramer, seconded by Vice Chair Antonella Castro, and
carried 5-0-0-0 to approve staff recommendations on Item 5. AYES: Rief, Castro, Kramer, Larson, Murray NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
6. Rules for Acceptable Use of Wireless Internet Connections (NBPL 11)
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve minor changes to Library Policy NBPL 11, Rules for Acceptable Use of Wireless Internet
Connections. Chair Rief, with Board agreement, noted there was no need for a staff report. Chair Rief opened the item for public comments. Jim Mosher, a Newport Beach resident, expressed confusion over how the draft policy
states it has been amended today when no amendments are proposed. Chair Rief closed public comments.
Motion made by Chair Chase Rief, seconded by Secretary Dorothy Larson, and carried 5-0-0-0 to approve staff recommendations on Item 6 while changing “amended” to
“reviewed.” AYES: Rief, Castro, Kramer, Larson, Murray NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
7. Circulation Policy (NBPL 12)
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve minor changes to Library Policy NBPL 12, Circulation Policy. Adult Services Coordinator Andrew Kachaturian reported the policy serves Library patrons well.
In response to Secretary Larson’s inquiries, Mr. Kachaturian advised that there are no changes to the policy at this time but noted there may be a need for some down the road.
7
Board of Library Trustees Meeting January 21, 2025
Page 4
Some language was corrected two years ago and the pandemic-era policy modifications to delay fines have since expired.
Chair Rief noted the language for this item also needs to be changed from “amended” to “reviewed.”
Chair Rief opened the item for public comments, there were none. Motion made by Trustee Lauren Kramer, seconded by Secretary Dorothy Larson, and
carried 5-0-0-0 to approve staff recommendations on Item 7 while changing “amended” to “reviewed.” AYES: Rief, Castro, Kramer, Larson, Murray NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
8. NBPL eBranch, Database, and Downloadable Services Update
Staff will provide an update and review of the Library eBranch, database, and downloadable services. Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot reported not much has changed over the past year. The database component is good with over 40 databases covering a wide variety of topics. Staff is pleased with eBook and audiobook circulation with numbers peaking during the pandemic and increasing annually since a 2021 falloff. She added the Southern California Digital Library Consortium, of which the Newport Beach Public Library was a
founding member, continues to be successful, providing patrons with over $1 million worth of titles for an annual fee of just $10,000 paid by the Library. Newport Beach Public Library patrons are easily the most frequent OverDrive users.
In response to Chair Rief’s inquiry, Ms. Lightfoot clarified the City’s Advantage Collection is reserved only for Newport Beach patrons and no other members of the Consortium.
In response to Vice Chair Castro’s inquiries, Ms. Lightfoot confirmed the online materials are covered in the materials budget and clarified the Library spends $70,000 on its Advantage Collection while the Library’s portion of OverDrive’s Consortium Collection cost is $10,000. It is all housed under the materials umbrella in the budget. She clarified a portion of the $10,000 goes towards OverDrive’s annual costs of hosting the Libby app. She reported the Library buys new materials monthly for both the Advantage Collection and Consortium Collection responding to patron requests and noted there are a variety of challenges in balancing patron interests with publisher cost protocols. She noted the many complexities libraries have experienced in negotiating with publishing companies.
Chair Rief lauded how high the City’s usage is compared to other cities, particularly when assessed on a per capita basis. He expressed concerns over forecasts for rapidly rising costs of audio books over the coming years.
Chair Rief opened the item for public comments, there were none.
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Board of Library Trustees Meeting January 21, 2025
Page 5
Chair Rief received and filed the report.
9. Library Activities
Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics. Library Services Director Melissa Hartson reported the highlights from 2024. The Central Library celebrated its 30th anniversary by hosting an Open House. She noted that the Library conducted many successful community events over the past year and added
programming for all audiences and age groups. She commended how the teen summer book club continued to meet on its own even after the summer program expired with the return to school. She thanked the Library Foundation and Friends of the Library for their
financial contributions enabling programming. She reported the Library’s circulation and number of library card holders are both up from 2023. She clarified the next meeting for the Board of Library Trustees will be on Monday, February 24.
In response to Trustee Kramer’s inquiry, Ms. Hartson reported the Library’s staff is working with the City’s Public Works Department on the redesign of the Balboa Branch, with the potential of being ready to accept construction bids in the fall. In response to Secretary Larson’s inquiry, Ms. Hartson clarified the meetings with Public Works and other City departments about the project are internal City staff meetings. She would happily provide an update on how the meetings are going. Chair Rief opened the item for public comments, there were none.
Chair Rief received and filed the report. B. Monthly Reports
10. Library Foundation Liaison Report
Trustee update of the most recently attended Library Foundation Board Meeting. Secretary Larson stated she was impressed by Chair Rief’s informative and useful
presentation to the Foundation Board at its last meeting, commending the interaction it generated between the Trustees and the Foundation. She applauded Foundation Chief Executive Officer Jerold Kappel’s memorandum updating the Trustees and added the
Library Live and Spotlight on Science programs are proving to be successful. She reported upcoming Spotlight on Science speakers will include seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones and gene-editing expert Dr. Grant MacGregor. Chair Rief reported he has adjusted his schedule so he can attend all the Foundation Board’s Meetings. He added the Foundation is openly looking for speaker suggestions. Chair Rief opened the item for public comments, there were none. Chair Rief received and filed the report.
9
Board of Library Trustees Meeting January 21, 2025
Page 6
11. Friends of the Library Liaison Report
Trustee update of the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board Meeting. Trustee Murray reported the Friends of the Library are looking for book sale venues for 2025 due to a construction displacement. She added the organization recently received a $15,000 cash contribution and memberships are up 26% from last year.
Chair Rief opened the item for public comments, there were none. Chair Rief received and filed the report.
12. Pals4pal Liaison Report
Trustee update of the most recently attended Pals4pal Board Meeting. Vice Chair Castro stated there is nothing to report and noted Pals4pal’s upcoming
dissolution. Chair Rief opened the item for public comments, there were none. Chair Rief received and filed the report. VIII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS – Three Minutes per speaker Jim Mosher, a Newport Beach Resident, clarified his lengthy comment at the last meeting about collection development policy by stating there are mechanisms in place where the Trustee Board can review the Director’s policy decisions for review without involving the public. He encouraged doing this in the future. IX. BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
Trustee Kramer stated the Chair’s comments regularly made at the start of Board meetings should have their own agenda section. Chair Rief agreed.
Secretary Larson reported the budget figuratively passes the smell test. Mr. Kappel reported the Foundation is just $1.1 million away from meeting its Witte Hall construction commitment and anticipates reaching that goal by December. X. ADJOURNMENT – 5:41 p.m. The next meeting will be February 24, 2025.
10
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS JANUARY 2025
Comment # Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
1
01/02/2025
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
01/02/2025
2
01/07/2025
Comment Card
Annika Helmuth
Branch & Youth Services Coordinator
01/07/2025
3
01/07/2025
Comment Card
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
01/08/2025
4
01/08/2025
Email
Annika Helmuth
Branch & Youth Services Coordinator
01/09/2025
5
01/09/2025
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
01/10/2025
I am looking to work here at this library. I couldn't find the page where you apply to
work here, so I figured I would just email you directly. If you wish to contact me
about applying here, please respond to this email or call me at ... Thank you for
taking your time to speak with me. Thank you.
Thank you for your interest in working for the Library! All our job openings are
posted on the City’s website here ... You can also fill out a job interest card on the
City’s website to be notified by email whenever a new job in the Library is posted
... I hope that helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank
you.
I have tried twice this week to scan in a document and email it to myself at
Mariners Library. I have not received either of these documents. I have used this
service in the past and it worked. I would appreciate any help you can offer about
this. Thank you.
I am sorry to hear you are having difficulties with the scanner at the Mariners
Branch. I spoke with staff at the Branch, and it sounds like the scanner is working
as expected. However, there are a few reasons the email may not be going
through. Some mailboxes filter out automated emails and others may
automatically send automated emails to spam. Some mailboxes also have a
capacity threshold and may not be able to receive any new mail. Is it possible
something changed with your email settings recently? I also reached out to the
City’s IT department to have them investigate. The next time you visit, please
check with staff as they may have a workaround solution. Thank you for taking the
time to share your experience and we hope that we can meet your needs on a
future visit. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any further questions or
concerns.
Cleaning service is not cleaning computers and cubicles, nor chairs. Everything is
visibly dirty, sticky, etc.
Thank you for taking the time to share you feedback with us through a comment
card at the Mariners Branch Library. We value your input as it helps us improve
our services and provide the best experience possible. We are working with our
janitorial service to ensure that the facility is regularly cleaned and that these
issues are looked after in a timely manner. Again, we are grateful for your
feedback, and we hope that we can meet your needs on a future visit. Please
don’t hesitate to reach out with any further questions or concerns.
[I suggest adding] a projector suitable for screening movies in a backyard. Would
be a nice family/community addition.
Thank you for taking the time to fill out a comment card. We appreciate your
feedback and suggestions for improving services and are always on the lookout
for new things to add to enhance what we offer. We will discuss adding a portable
projector to our Tech Toys collection. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any
questions or comments and thank you again.
I recently called your library and was informed that you might be the best person
to connect with regarding a potential collaboration with NAMI Orange County
(NAMI OC). NAMI OC is the largest affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental
Illness in California, and we are dedicated to providing free mental health
resources to the community. In addition to our 24/7, 365 Warmline, which offers
confidential and free emotional support and mental health guidance, we also
provide over 25 educational and support programs designed to empower
individuals and families with knowledge and resources. We would love to have our
Clinical Director ... join one of your meetings or events to share more about these
no-cost resources and explore how we can support your patrons. Would you be
open to discussing this opportunity? If so, please let me know a convenient time
for a quick call or meeting. I’d be happy to provide more details or work with your
schedule to make this happen. Thank you for considering this opportunity to bring
valuable mental health support to the community. I look forward to hearing from
you soon.
Thank you for reaching out. We appreciate everything you are doing, but we are
unable to partner with you at this time. The City has a contract with another
agency for this type of assistance. Take care.
11
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS JANUARY 2025
Comment # Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
6
01/10/2025
Comment Card
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
01/10/2025
7
01/13/2025
Comment Card
Annika Helmuth
Branch & Youth Services Coordinator
01/13/2025
8
01/14/2025
Email
Andy Kachaturian
Adult Services Coordinator
01/14/2025
9
01/15/2025
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
01/15/2025
10
01/17/2025
Email
Andy Kachaturian
Adult Services Coordinator
01/17/2025
11
01/18/2025
Email
Andy Kachaturian
Adult Services Coordinator
01/21/2025
This is a note for someone who can update the banner on your website. I just
wanted to let you know the notice on your website saying you will be closed on
Jan. 20th says Martin King Luther, Jr. instead of Martin Luther King, Jr. so that
you can update it. Thanks!
Thank you so much for letting us know. I have fixed that error on the website.
Take care.
I have a library card and recently went to the library and asked for information
about how to renew my passport as an adult. I was told to go to the website to
make reservations because that's the only way to make an appointment. I am
having a hard time figuring out how to do this, and would appreciate any help I
could get. Thank you.
Please accept my apologies for the incomplete information you received. Here is
the link to make a passport appointment at the Central library ... Please click “To
view availability and schedule a Passport appointment online, visit our Bookings
page.” This will take you to our online scheduler. If you prefer, we can make an
appointment for you. Please call our direct number: 949-717-3831. Please do not
hesitate to reach out for assistance.
We are looking to donate many books from my parent's house. I estimate
probably at least 100 books. These range from basic paperbacks, to hardcover
novels, coffee table books, etc. Is this something the library would be interested
in, and if so, what would be the process of donating those? If not, do you have a
suggestion of who/where to donate books?
Thank you for thinking of the library. We do have a Friends of the Library
bookstore located at the Central Library on Avocado that will be happy to assist
you. I would recommend contacting them by phone to arrange a time for a larger
drop off. Their phone number is 949-759-9667 and they are open Monday-
Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-3.p.m. They also have helpful information regarding
donations on their webpage located here ... Best regards.
I am writing to you because I checked out a state park pass last week and was
told that I could return the pass by midnight today. However, it says the library
closed at 6 today. I am very sorry but I will bring the pass first thing tomorrow
morning.
Thank you for letting us know and for returning the park pass. We do have exterior
book returns at each location that you can always use after hours in a situation
like this, but we certainly appreciate your diligence in trying to return items on
time. Have a great day.
Please monitor temperature. It's freezing in here today! [It's a] waste of resources
and taxpayer dollars. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing your concerns about the temperature at the Mariners
Branch Library. We understand the importance of a comfortable environment for
our patrons. The HVAC system settings are designed to ensure the building
operations as efficiently as possible. These temperature ranges are
predetermined by our HVAC vendor with the hope to achieve a consistent
environment for all patrons. I encourage you to let staff know if you need
assistance finding a more comfortable spot in the building. We value your
feedback and please don’t hesitate to reach out with any further comments or
questions.
[I like] the staff. They are great, responsive, respectful, kind, and the list goes on.
You are blessed to have them. They are exceptional. I would like to see more
authors, especially new writers. Why I submitted this card--you need more signs
to "slow down" because it is dangerous driving in and out of the structure. Please,
please, please.
Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback at the Central Library. We
appreciate your kind words of praise, and I will pass them along to staff. I will pass
along your suggestion regarding signage leaving the parking structure to the City’s
Public Works department. If you have any other comments or questions, please
don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you again.
12
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTS JANUARY 2025
Comment # Comment Response
Date Received
Source of Comment
Staff Member
Staff Member Title
Date Responded to Patron
12
01/23/2025
Email
Rebecca Lightfoot
Library Services Manager
01/24/2025
13
01/27/2025
Email
Camille Escareal-Garcia
Cultural Arts Assistant
01/27/2025
14
01/31/2025
Email
Melissa Hartson
Library Services Director
01/31/2025
I’m ... from Class Action U, and I recently came across the insightful financial
information you shared ... I was wondering if you’d be open to adding a new
resource to that page. Unfortunately, no matter how cautious we are, personal
data is always at risk of being compromised in a breach. These incidents come
with significant costs, from notification expenses and legal fees to regulatory fines.
Beyond the financial toll, breaches can erode customer trust, damage reputations,
and hurt business. Taking immediate steps like updating passwords and keeping
an eye on financial accounts can help reduce the impact. We’ve created a guide
that details the key actions to take after a data breach: What to Do After a Data
Breach - classactionu.org/data-breach/what-to-do/. Our mission is to equip people
with up-to-date information on class action suits and data breaches. I believe our
guide could be a valuable addition to your page, and I’d love for you to consider
linking to it. If you do not want to receive anymore emails from me, please reply
letting me know you're not interested. Thank you so much for your time. Have a
great day...
Thank you for your correspondence and thinking of the Library. However, the
Library is not currently interested in adding a data breach resource guide to its
website. Best regards.
I am wondering if the library can connect me to local literary agents and publishers
in Newport Beach. Thank you.
The Library has several resources for finding literary agents and publishers. There
aren’t many that are quite that local, but if you’re willing to broaden your search,
you might find these books helpful: “The Writer’s Market” [and] “Jeff Herman’s
Guide to Book Publishers, Editors, and Literary Agents.” You can also try
searching our A to Z and Reference Solutions databases. If you do an Advanced
Business search, you can type in “literary agents” as a keyword and narrow down
the geographical location. I hope that helps. Please feel free to stop by or call any
of our four library locations and a librarian would be more than happy to help you
find these resources. Thank you.
Can I get details on the annual arts competition in Newport Beach, CA? The Newport Beach Art Exhibition is a juried competition where artists will have
the opportunity to show and sell their artwork. In its 58th year, the event will take
place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Newport Beach Civic Center (100 Civic
Center Dr., Newport Beach 92660) from 1-5 p.m. If you are interested in applying,
the call for entries will open on March 3 and will close on May 9. Please note that
you will need to make a free account on CallforEntry.org to submit your artwork.
Artists can submit up to two works - $35 for one artwork and $50 for the second.
Please let me know if you have any further questions about this art event, I’m
more than happy to assist.
13
LIBRARY EXPENDITURES FY 2024-25
(February 3, 2025)
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
ORIGINAL
APPROP
REVISED
BUDGET
MONTHLY
EXPENDED
YTD 2024-25
EXPENDED
AVAILABLE
BUDGET
YTD 2-24-25
% EXPENDED
YTD 2023-24
EXPENDED
I SALARY & BENEFITS
SALARY FULL-TIME REGULAR 3,346,020 3,346,020 487,892 1,770,961 1,575,059 52.9%1,735,737
SALARY PART-TIME 1,419,780 1,459,640 68,614 547,713 911,926 37.5%504,028
BENEFITS 2,305,496 2,459,924 205,014 1,306,805 1,153,119 53.1%1,301,813
SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL 7,071,297 7,265,584 761,521 3,625,479 3,640,104 49.9%3,541,578
II MAINT & OPERATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*215,453 215,453 35,917 108,493 106,960 50.4%129,688
UTILITIES 383,009 383,009 39,540 211,362 171,647 55.2%227,754
PROGRAMMING 2,000 2,500 41 1,220 1,280 48.8%2,584
SUPPLIES**82,800 82,800 10,964 54,927 27,873 66.3%47,010
LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 690,424 55,569 519,196 171,228 75.2%552,931
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 248,450 271,455 39,034 136,538 134,916 50.3%138,274
TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 125 2,803 7,878 26.2%2,433
GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***24,202 28,202 2,369 25,520 2,682 90.5%14,211
PERIPHERALS & SOFTWARE 5,000 5,000 151 151 4,849 3.0%28
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,849,173 1,704,825 159,228 994,481 710,344 58.3%987,814
OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 64 64 1,936 3.2%379
MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,492,508 3,396,349 343,003 2,054,756 1,341,593 60.5%2,103,107
LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL 10,563,804 10,661,932 1,104,523 5,680,235 4,981,697 53.3%5,644,685
*PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE
**INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES
***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE
14
Previous
Agenda Date
Scheduled
Agenda Date
Ongoing Ongoing
Feb 26, 2024 Feb 24, 2025
Feb 26, 2024 Feb 24, 2025
Mar 18, 2024 Mar 17, 2025
Apr 15, 2024 Apr 21, 2025
Apr 15, 2024 Apr 21, 2025
May 20, 2024 May 19, 2025
May 20, 2024 May 19, 2025
May 20, 2024 May 19, 2025
Jul 15, 2024 Jun 16, 2025
Jun 17, 2024 Jun 16, 2025
Jul 15, 2024 Jul 21, 2025
Jul 15, 2024 Jul 21, 2025
Aug 19, 2024 Aug 18, 2025
Aug 19, 2024 Aug 18, 2025
Sep 16, 2024 Sep 15, 2025
Oct 21, 2024 Oct 20, 2025
Oct 21, 2024 Oct 20, 2025
Nov 18, 2024 Nov 17, 2025
Jan 21, 2025 Jan 20, 2026
LAST
REVIEWED
Feb 21, 2023 NBPL 8 Display and Distribution of Materials Policy Feb 24, 2025
Apr 17, 2023 NBPL 13 Study Rooms/Charles Sword Meeting Room Policy Mar 17, 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
Jun 17, 2024 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy Jun 15, 2026
Jul 15, 2024 CC I-1 Library Services Policy (Council Policy I -1)Jul 20, 2026
Sep 16, 2024 NBPL 9 Expressive Use Areas Sep 21, 2026
Nov 18, 2024 NBPL 1 Library Use Policy Nov 16, 2026
Nov 18, 2024 NBPL 6 Media Lab Use Policy Nov 16, 2026
Nov 18, 2024 NBPL 7 Sound Lab Use Policy Nov 16, 2026
Jan 21, 2025 NBPL 12 Circulation Policy Jan 19, 2027
Jan 21, 2025 NBPL 5 Internet Use Policy Jan 19, 2027
Jan 21, 2025 NBPL 11 Rules for Acceptable Use of Wireless Internet Connections Jan 19, 2027
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES MONITORING LIST
Policy Review (See List Below)
Branch Update - Mariners
Review Holidays / Meeting Schedule
Performance Review of Library Services Director (Closed Session)
Annual Budget - Preliminary Review
Information Technology Update
Marketing Update & Social Networking Update
Media Lab Update
Proposed Library Closures for Winter Holidays
Newport Beach Public Library eBranch, Database and Downloadable Services Review
Annual Budget - Approval
Library Material Selection
Branch Update - CDM
AGENDA ITEM
POLICY REVIEW
Adult and Reference Services Update
Branch Update - Balboa
Literacy Program Update
Youth Services Update
Election of Board of Library Trustees Officers/Trustee Liaisons
Arts & Cultural Update
Financial Report Comparison of Beginning Budget to End of the Year Amended Budget
15
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
February 24, 2025
Agenda Item No. 5
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review Library Policy NBPL 8, Display and Distribution of
Materials.
DISCUSSION:
The Newport Beach Public Library has areas for the distribution and display of informational materials
provided by various governmental agencies available to Library patrons. The Library provides space at all
locations for the display of these materials.
The current policy limits the display of materials to Newport Beach Public Library programs and resources,
materials from our designated support groups, City-sponsored events, and municipal, county, state, and
federal government entities. Library staff manages the designated display areas at all four locations. The
display spaces at each Library location serve as an effective area for government information and a useful
amenity for patrons.
Staff recommends no changes to the policy and one revision to the review timeline to be consistent across
all Library policies.
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).
on,
ATTACHMENT A: Display and Distribution of Materials (NBPL 8) – original
ATTACHMENT B: Display and Distribution of Materials (NBPL 8) – red-lined
ATTACHMENT C: Display and Distribution of Materials (NBPL 8) – 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: Display and Distribution of Materials Policy (NBPL 8)
16
1
NBPL 8
Display and Distribution of Materials
The purpose of this policy is to establish standards concerning the use of the areas officially
designated for the display and distribution of materials at the Newport Beach Public Central Library
and, to the extent established, any similar shelves in any Library branch.
The Newport Beach Public Library makes available shelves for the display and distribution of
materials for Library patrons to obtain information provided by various governmental
agencies. Central Library and the three branch locations each have a designated area for the
display and distribution of materials in the Library.
The following are the guidelines established by the Board of Library Trustees for the use of these
shelves:
A.The materials to be given away must be in brochure, pamphlet, flyer, and/or business card
formats, and must not exceed 8.5" x 14" in size.
B.No materials provided by any non-governmental agency will be permitted on the designated
shelves. Acceptable materials for dissemination on the shelves include Library information
and announcements from City-designated Library support groups; City-sponsored programs
and events; and materials from other governmental agencies – e.g. City, County, State, and
Federal information; and information and instructional materials from schools in the Newport
Beach area (“school” is defined by the California Department of Education
at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/si/ds/dos.asp).
C.All items placed on the designated shelves should be approved by the Adult Services
Coordinator or their designee at Central Library and the Branch Librarians or their designee at
the branch locations. The Library Services Manager should be consulted if there is doubt
about the suitability of a particular item. Library staff is responsible for placing the materials
on the designated shelves and removing outdated material. The provider may furnish any
display holder it desires for its materials so long as the display holder is of an appropriate size,
shape, and material and that there is sufficient display space for materials received.
D.The Library is not responsible for the damage, theft, or loss of any materials or display
holders.
E.Other than materials provided by the City of Newport Beach or the Library, no materials
intended to be given to or seen by the public may be placed by any person or entity in any
lobby area, other shelves, desks or tables, or anywhere else in any of the Libraries.
F.Library staff has the right to remove and dispose of any materials that fail to meet these
standards in any way. The Library is not responsible for returning undistributed materials.
Adopted – February 17, 2015
Amended - February 17, 2015
Reaffirmed - February 19, 2019
Amended - February 16, 2021
ATTACHMENT A
17
2
Amended – February 21, 2023
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on February 21, 2023.
18
1
NBPL 8
Display and Distribution of Materials
The purpose of this policy is to establish standards concerning the use of the areas officially
designated for the display and distribution of materials at the Newport Beach Public Central Library
and, to the extent established, any similar shelves in any Library branch.
The Newport Beach Public Library makes available shelves for the display and distribution of
materials for Library patrons to obtain information provided by various governmental
agencies. Central Library and the three branch locations each have a designated area for the
display and distribution of materials in the Library.
The following are the guidelines established by the Board of Library Trustees for the use of these
shelves:
A.The materials to be given away must be in brochure, pamphlet, flyer, and/or business card
formats, and must not exceed 8.5" x 14" in size.
B.No materials provided by any non-governmental agency will be permitted on the designated
shelves. Acceptable materials for dissemination on the shelves include Library information
and announcements from City-designated Library support groups; City-sponsored programs
and events; and materials from other governmental agencies – e.g. City, County, State, and
Federal information; and information and instructional materials from schools in the Newport
Beach area (“school” is defined by the California Department of Education
at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/si/ds/dos.asp).
C.All items placed on the designated shelves should be approved by the Adult Services
Coordinator or their designee at Central Library and the Branch Librarians or their designee at
the branch locations. The Library Services Manager should be consulted if there is doubt
about the suitability of a particular item. Library staff is responsible for placing the materials
on the designated shelves and removing outdated material. The provider may furnish any
display holder it desires for its materials so long as the display holder is of an appropriate size,
shape, and material and that there is sufficient display space for materials received.
D.The Library is not responsible for the damage, theft, or loss of any materials or display
holders.
E.Other than materials provided by the City of Newport Beach or the Library, no materials
intended to be given to or seen by the public may be placed by any person or entity in any
lobby area, other shelves, desks or tables, or anywhere else in any of the Libraries.
F.Library staff has the right to remove and dispose of any materials that fail to meet these
standards in any way. The Library is not responsible for returning undistributed materials.
Adopted – February 17, 2015
Amended - February 17, 2015
Reaffirmed Reviewed - February 19, 2019
Amended - February 16, 2021
ATTACHMENT B
19
2
Amended – February 21, 2023
Reviewed – February 24, 2025
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on February 21, 202324, 2025.
20
1
NBPL 8
Display and Distribution of Materials
The purpose of this policy is to establish standards concerning the use of the areas officially
designated for the display and distribution of materials at the Newport Beach Public Central Library
and, to the extent established, any similar shelves in any Library branch.
The Newport Beach Public Library makes available shelves for the display and distribution of
materials for Library patrons to obtain information provided by various governmental agencies.
Central Library and the three branch locations each have a designated area for the display and
distribution of materials in the Library.
The following are the guidelines established by the Board of Library Trustees for the use of these
shelves:
A.The materials to be given away must be in brochure, pamphlet, flyer, and/or business card
formats, and must not exceed 8.5" x 14" in size.
B.No materials provided by any non-governmental agency will be permitted on the designated
shelves. Acceptable materials for dissemination on the shelves include Library information
and announcements from City-designated Library support groups; City-sponsored programs
and events; and materials from other governmental agencies – e.g. City, County, State, and
Federal information; and information and instructional materials from schools in the Newport
Beach area (“school” is defined by the California Department of Education
at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/si/ds/dos.asp).
C.All items placed on the designated shelves should be approved by the Adult Services
Coordinator or their designee at Central Library and the Branch Librarians or their designee at
the branch locations. The Library Services Manager should be consulted if there is doubt
about the suitability of a particular item. Library staff is responsible for placing the materials
on the designated shelves and removing outdated material. The provider may furnish any
display holder it desires for its materials so long as the display holder is of an appropriate size,
shape, and material and that there is sufficient display space for materials received.
D.The Library is not responsible for the damage, theft, or loss of any materials or display
holders.
E.Other than materials provided by the City of Newport Beach or the Library, no materials
intended to be given to or seen by the public may be placed by any person or entity in any
lobby area, other shelves, desks, or tables, or anywhere else in any of the Libraries.
F.Library staff has the right to remove and dispose of any materials that fail to meet these
standards in any way. The Library is not responsible for returning undistributed materials.
Adopted – February 17, 2015
Amended - February 17, 2015
Reviewed - February 19, 2019
Amended - February 16, 2021
ATTACHMENT C
21
2
Amended – February 21, 2023
Reviewed – February 24, 2025
This Policy will be periodically reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees on the first to occur of (i) as
circumstances may require or (ii) every two years from the date of adoption, last amendment, or last
review. Adopted, last amended, or last reviewed on February 24, 2025.
22
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
February 24, 2025
Agenda Item No. 6
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff requests that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the preliminary Library operating
budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26.
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 proposed FY 2025-26 operating budget
for the Library Services Department. The Library will meet with Assistant City Managers Tara Finnigan and
Seimone Jurjis to review the following program enhancement requests.
In the next fiscal year, Public Works is taking over the day-to-day maintenance of the four libraries. As a
result, the Facilities Maintenance Technician position will move to their division. The Library is asking for
$64,086 for two new part-time Clerk II positions to handle the non-building related duties of the current
Facilities Maintenance Technician, such as daily deliveries of library materials, interoffice mail, moving
supplies between the facilities and concierge locations, and preparing room set ups for events.
The Library is requesting to reclassify a Librarian III position into a paraprofessional position. This new
position will be the Circulation Coordinator. Working with the Finance Department, staff anticipate a
salary savings of $40,612 because this position will not require a master’s degree in library science. Library
staff has requested reallocating the savings into Maintenance and Repairs to cover ongoing costs
associated with the facility and services that will not transfer to Public Works, such as furniture repair and
increasing our annual budget for Special Event Liability Insurance due to increased costs associated with
the new City approved insurance vendor.
Three budgets are impacted by the transfer of funds to Public Works: Professional Services, which includes
our janitorial contract; Supplies, which includes building and janitorial supplies; and Facilities
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: Annual Budget – Preliminary Review
23
Annual Budget – Preliminary Review
February 24, 2025
Page 2
Maintenance. The Library will still be responsible for some aspects of maintenance, but the proposed
budget has been reduced.
At the November 12, 2024, City Council meeting, the Council approved a three-year exhibition period for
future phases of the Sculpture Exhibition. Moving from a two-year to a three-year phase increases the
total budget from $135,000 to $214,080 for two out of the three years, with no funds needed for the third
year. This will result in a savings of $90,840 over the three years due to the decreased frequency of
installing and deinstalling phases on an annual basis. Staff is requesting an additional $79,080 to fund
Phase X of the Sculpture Exhibition in the Cultural Arts Division. Funding allows the public to enjoy each
phase of the Sculpture Exhibition for a longer period. Funding also provides an opportunity to increase
artist honorariums, which would serve as an incentive for a variety of accomplished artists to commit their
pieces to an additional year of exhibition.
Revenue projections for FY 2025-26 remain similar to the previous year. The Library anticipates service
levels and patron patterns will continue on a similar trajectory as the current fiscal year. Staff are seeing
a continued high volume of patrons applying for passports as well as taking advantage of the Library’s test
proctoring service and anticipate revenues in those categories increasing. The Library will cease offering
Notary services after July 1, 2025, due to the high cost of certifying and insuring the Notary staff versus
the small amount of revenue the Library has taken in over the past four years the service has been offered.
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: Proposed Budget FY 2025-26
ATTACHMENT B: Revenue Projection FY 2025-26
24
ATTACHMENT A PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2025-26
LIBRARY SERVICES
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
FY 2025-26
PROPOSED
BUDGET
FY 2024-25
ORIGINAL
APPROPRIATION
I SALARY & BENEFITS
SALARY FULL-TIME REGULAR 3,426,310 3,346,020
SALARY PART-TIME 1,546,917 1,419,780
BENEFITS 2,386,783 2,305,496
SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL****7,360,010 7,071,297
II MAINT & OPERATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*6,488 215,453
UTILITIES 391,004 383,009
PROGRAMMING 2,000 2,000
SUPPLIES**16,000 82,800
LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 669,740
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 85,800 248,450
TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681
GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***27,274 24,202
PERIPHERALS 4,500 5,000
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,851,818 1,849,173
OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000
MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,067,305 3,492,508
LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL ****10,427,315 10,563,804
*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 25
PROPOSED BUDGET FY 2025-26
CULTURAL ARTS
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
FY 2025-26
PROPOSED
BUDGET
FY 2024-25
ORIGINAL
APPROPRIATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 237,080 158,000
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 334,168 255,088
2 26
ATTACHMENT B REVENUE PROJECTION FY 2025-26
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
FY 2024-25
ORIGINAL
FY 2024-25
ACTUAL
FY 2025-26
PROJECTION
CALIF LITERACY CAMPAIGN 0 41,935 0
COPIES/PLANS/SPECS/MISC 6,000 19,075 9,000
EXAM PROCTOR FEES 2,500 2,616 3,500
LIBRARY FINES 40,000 19,587 40,000
PASSPORT EXECUTION FEE 28,000 13,790 30,000
PASSPORT PHOTOS 12,000 7,200 14,000
PRIVATE DONATIONS/CONTRIBUTIONS 0 15,737 0
PRIVATE REFUNDS & REBATES 5,000 4,643 8,000
SALE OF MAPS & PUB 900 351 800
SLS GRANT FUND OC LIBRARY 0 4,399 0
VIDEOPLAN RENTAL 1,200 337 1,000
NOTARY SERVICES 100 45 0
LIBRARY ADMIN TOTAL 95,700 129,715 106,300
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY 0 200,000 0
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION 0 40,000 0
TOTAL AS OF JANUARY 30, 2025 369,715
27
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
February 24, 2025
Agenda Item No. 7
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff will present the annual report on the activities of the Cultural Arts Division.
DISCUSSION:
The Cultural Arts Division of the Newport Beach Public Library, with guidance and support from the City
Arts Commission (CAC), hosts a variety of programs and events that are culturally enriching for residents
and visitors of Newport Beach. The CAC acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council in all matters
pertaining to artistic, aesthetic, historical, and cultural aspects of the City.
Cultural activities are ongoing throughout the year and include the coordination of revolving art
exhibitions at Central Library, the Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park, the annual Newport Beach Art
Exhibition, Concerts on the Green, and a variety of other arts events.
The division includes one staff member, Cultural Arts Assistant Camille Escareal-Garcia, who provides
administrative assistance for the program.
In 2024, Cultural Arts presented the following programming:
Concerts on the Green
Three concerts were held in Summer 2024 with hundreds of residents and guests in attendance at each
performance. Featured bands were Radio Rebels, Wilbury Super Group, and AbSOULute. Concerts took
place on the Civic Center Green. Attendees were able to purchase food from onsite food truck vendors.
Children’s activities included face painting and balloon animal artists, which rounded out the family-
friendly events.
Exhibits in the Central Library
The CAC maintains exhibit space at the Central Library. The Lobby Gallery has approximately 38 feet of
linear wall space designed for two-dimensional pieces of art. Additionally, artists may apply to exhibit
three-dimensional works in two display cabinets. The CAC’s Art in Public Places Ad Hoc Subcommittee
meets periodically to review artist's submissions for exhibit in the Lobby Gallery. Six artists’ works were
displayed in the Lobby Gallery during 2024. Artists are currently booked for exhibition into 2026.
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: Arts and Culture Update
28
Arts and Culture Update
February 24, 2025
Page 2
Marina Park Concert
In October, residents and guests enjoyed the annual Concert at Marina Park, which featured jazz and
swing tribute band Jerry Costanzo and his Gotham City Swingers.
Newport Beach Art Exhibition
The CAC presents an annual juried art show, the Newport Beach Art Exhibition. Residents and guests
attend the exhibition to view and purchase original paintings, photography, and sculptures created by
regional artists. A portion of the proceeds from the one-day exhibit benefit Newport Beach arts programs.
The 57th Annual Newport Beach Art Exhibition took place in June 2024. The event featured 233 pieces of
artwork by 138 artists. Attendees of the one-day juried art show enjoyed visiting with local artists and
hearing live music with refreshments available in the Pavilion on the Civic Center Green. Children’s art
activities were also offered to allow young artists an opportunity to express their own artistic creativity.
Newport Beach Arts Foundation
The Newport Beach Arts Foundation, a private non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is dedicated to
supporting the purposes and objectives of the arts programs of the City of Newport Beach. Their annual
Art in the Park fine arts and artisans fair took place in September 2024. Residents and visitors had the
opportunity to interact with a myriad of artists who were exhibiting and selling their original art and fine
crafts.
Cultural Arts Grants
Each year, the City of Newport Beach awards grants to arts organizations, enabling them to expand arts
programs offered to the local community. The following arts organizations received Cultural Arts grants
in 2024:
• Backhausdance: $4,000
Backhausdance used their grant to present a dance education partnership program called Dance
Expressions: Creativity and Choreography, which was held at three different schools in the Newport-
Mesa Unified School District.
• Balboa Island Improvement Association: $3,000
The Balboa Island Improvement Association was granted funding for the Balboa Island Classical
Concert Series, held at St. John Vianney Chapel and Balboa Park on Agate.
• Baroque Music Festival: $4,500
The Baroque Music Festival used their grant funds to bring three vocal soloists and a trumpet soloist
from across the country to Newport Beach for the 44th season finale, All the Pleasures! Funds also
facilitated workshops by Festival musicians at local schools.
29
Arts and Culture Update
February 24, 2025
Page 3
• Pacific Chorale: $5,000
Pacific Chorale’s chamber choir presented three performances at Our Lady Queen of Angels Church,
featuring Handel’s Israel in Egypt and Carols by Candlelight.
• Pacific Symphony: $3,500
The Pacific Symphony used their grant to fund the Class Act Music Education program at Newport
Coast Elementary School. This program placed union musicians into the school for students to receive
music instruction.
• South Coast Repertory: $5,000
South Coast Repertory utilized the grant funds for the Theatre for Young Audiences free school-day
matinee performances of Alice in Wonderland for students.
Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park
The CAC presented Phase IX of the Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park, with the grand opening
ceremony held the same day as the Newport Beach Art Exhibition.
In November 2024, the City Council approved changing the exhibition period from two years to three
years for currently installed Phases VIII and IX and future phase installations.
Student Art Exhibition
The Newport Beach Student Art Exhibition features artwork created by pre-K through 12th grade students.
A total of 111 young artists participated in the 2024 program. Accepted artwork was displayed at the
Central Library in April and May. A ceremony recognizing first through third place and honorable mention
winners, was held during the CAC’s June 2024 regular meeting.
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).
30
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
February 24, 2025
Agenda Item No. 8
DISCUSSION:
The Newport Beach Public Library (Library) offers a Summer Reading Program (SRP) for children ages 0-
12 each year. Children’s SRP is a fun and engaging program that spans several weeks during the summer
and encourages the community to visit and use library resources and services. Driven by patron demand,
the 2025 Children’s SRP is increasing from seven weeks to eight weeks, beginning on Saturday, June 7 and
ending on Saturday, August 2.
In partnership with iRead Reading Programs, this year’s Children’s SRP theme is Level up at Your Library,
a play-based theme. According to iRead:
“Level Up at Your Library is an all-ages summer reading program based around puzzles and games.
Whether you’re playing with STEM concepts or gamifying your reading logs, learning to play chess
or how to code video games, iREAD 2025: Level Up at Your Library reminds us that libraries are
not just a space for knowledge, they are a space for fun!”
Children’s SRP incorporates two primary elements: a reading challenge and free family events. These two
components make up the collective “Summer Reading Program.”
The Children’s SRP Reading Challenge (Challenge) is intended for both early-learners (ages 0-5) and
students in grades K-6. Children may read on their own or have someone read to them. Children and their
parents log minutes read in Beanstack, complete bonus activities, and write book reviews to earn prizes.
Paper materials are available for those who prefer.
Challenge participants earn rewards and prizes as they participate. These include prize books and small
prizes of their choice, surprise rewards (like prize drawings), completion prizes, and public recognition for
participating. New this year, children who complete the Challenge will be recognized at a closing
achievement ceremony at the Central Library.
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: Children’s Summer Reading Program Update
31
Children’s Summer Reading Program Update
February 24, 2025
Page 2
In addition to the Challenge, Children’s SRP also includes programs for children and their families. This
year, the Library is offering the following entertaining and interactive programs:
Megan the Bubbleologist - Bubble Show
This one-of-a-kind bubble-show includes amazing tricks and bubbles of all shapes and sizes. Set to
kid-friendly music, Megan explores the world of Bubbleology with over 20 years of performing
experience!
Wild Wonders - Walk on The Wild Side
Animals and science come ALIVE in your library with animal ambassadors found all over the world!
Meet kinkajous, porcupines, alligators and more while learning their important role in nature.
Michael Rayner - The Found Object Juggling Show
Michael’s show has been described as “preposterous brilliance” and “whacky jugglement,” a
combination of hilarious tricks and stunts with uproarious stand-up. His signature trick is spinning
a Burger King cheeseburger.
Kyle Tiernan's Draw-Along
Your school aged children (ages 5-12) and their families will complete three refrigerator-ready,
kid-friendly drawings during this interactive, how to draw library show. All supplies included!
Kids Imagine Nation - SUMMER OF FUN
Summer of Fun is a dinosaur themed show! Rachel, Aaron & Beatz the Robot decide to make this
the best summer ever, and create their own, BRAND-NEW dinosaur. In order for them to do it
though, they need to travel back in time to the time of the dinosaurs!
Youth Services staff are also planning elevated and engaging staff-led programs to be offered at each
location throughout the eight-week program.
Children’s SRP marketing has begun with themed graphics and coordinating colors established as well as
a “Save the Date!” campaign launched in upcoming City, Library, and community publications.
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).
32
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
February 24, 2025
Agenda Item No. 10
MELISSA HARTSON, LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Welcome to the Neighborhood
On Saturday, January 25, Library Clerk Pam O’Connor and I attended an outreach event at OASIS Senior
Center. We represented the Library at this informal gathering welcoming those who had been displaced
by the recent Los Angeles County wildfires and who were staying in Newport Beach. We had nearly 30
attendees stop by our table and issued 11 new library cards during the 2-hour event. Among the visitors
were families, realtors, representatives of local organizations, and residents. We were able to provide
information and answer questions about Library resources and services.
WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES
•Medicine in Our Backyard: Cardiovascular Disease
Monday, February 24, 7 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Spotlight on Science: Unlocking the Genetic Code
Wednesday, March 5, 7 p.m..
Friends Room, Central Library
•“The [M] Factor” Film Screening with Q&A
Tuesday, February 25, 6:30 p.m.
Friends Room, Central Library
•Sunday Musicale: Astral Mixtape
Sunday, March 16, 3 p.m.
Friends Room, Central Library
•Library Live: Javier Zamora
Thursday, February 27, 7 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Monday, March 17, 5 p.m.
City Council Chambers, Civic Center
REBECCA LIGHTFOOT, LIBRARY SERVICES MANAGER
Literacy
We hired a new Department Assistant Jennifer Rusiecki, who went through two weeks of training and is
transitioning well into Project Adult Literacy (PAL). Staff completed the California Library Literacy Services
Mid-Year Report and held the first Volunteer Tutor Training of 2025. PAL had 12 new volunteers/tutors
complete the six-hour training and will be joining the program in late February.
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 January Library Activities – February 24, 2025 Meeting
33
Report of January Library Activities
February 24, 2025
Page 2
PAL held a Literacy/Library tour for a group of ESL students from Mariners Church in Irvine. These students
learned about PAL and toured= Central Library to familiarize themselves with the services offered. Each
student signed up for a library card and some of them even signed up for PAL. We are hoping to continue
building this partnership with Mariners Church’s ESL group and offer more tours in the future.
Programming
In January, the Library hosted the Storytellers Writing Workshop 3-part series. It was once again an
impactful experience with participants eagerly attending each class. We also continued with two Writers
Groups in January that were well attended.
Our Sunday Musicale featured Duo Duoro, a harp and flute duo. They performed a beautiful program with
much educational narration, which the audience seemed to appreciate. The program was well-received
with 190 in attendance.
Website
Web Team added a link to the popular podcast, “Newport Beach in the Rearview Mirror”, to our About
Newport Beach page on the Library’s website.
ANNIKA HELMUTH, BRANCH AND YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR
Branch Activities
Mariners Branch (Mariners) hosted another BARK: Read to a Dog program this January. The program
provided 39 children the opportunity to conduct their own storytimes by reading to friendly dogs. At
Balboa Branch, a magical time was had by all at Fairy Tale Crafts. And at Corona del Mar Branch, the
annual Stuffed Animal Sleepover was another success. Thirty-eight stuffed animals enjoyed a sleepover at
the Library with the help of two teen volunteers who took photos of the overnight guests as they
participated in coloring time, play time, storytime, and bedtime.
Youth Services
A cloudy January afternoon drew in approximately 40 participants for a particularly busy Board Game
Saturday at the Central Library (Central). As the afternoon progressed, the room became busier with
families who were happy to find a space for their kids to hang out on a cold day. One parent took the time
to thank staff with the comment “With video games so accessible these days, we appreciate the Library
for keeping board games relevant and fun for kids.”
Middle Grade Book Club had a big group this month for their discussion of Front Desk by Kelly Yang. Staff
regularly receive positive feedback from attending moms who love the program and enjoy reading the
books along with their children.
Central also hosted several popular afterschool events including BARK: Read to a Dog (49 participants);
STEAM Lab (41 participants); and a Lunar New Celebration (58 participants).
Class Visits
Fifty enthusiastic first graders from Newport Coast Elementary and their adult chaperones visited Central
late in the month. They toured the Children’s Room, reviewed library rules, listened to a story, and
browsed the children’s collections. A glimpse of the Circulation department and its role in keeping the
Library organized was a favorite moment. Many students asked great questions such as “Do you have
Minecraft books?” (yes!) and “Can I sit in the Library by myself?” (an adult needs to be with a child at all
34
Report of January Library Activities
February 24, 2025
Page 3
times). Before leaving, one of the students asked if she could have the Library’s address written down so
her parents knew the directions to come here (she was planning to return the next day!). Students
received free bus transportation and a complimentary book thanks to the Friends of the Library. Newport
Coast was the final first-grade field trip of the school year rounding out visits from first graders at all eight
Newport Beach public elementary schools.
Outreach
Youth Services staff supported Teen Services in attending the Corona del Mar High School Community
Service Fair; hosting a Library tour for the Estancia High School English Language Development students;
and leading student database instruction for Ensign Middle School Study Skills students.
Personnel
New part-time Library Assistant Anthony Duhamel started regular Monday coverage at Mariners this
month.
ANDREW KACHATURIAN, ADULT SERVICES COORDINATOR
Teen Services
The Young Adult Advisory Council met on January 8. Thirteen members were present. During their
meeting, they discussed their current film and book interests and created vision board collages to express
their goals for the new year. They also made Valentine’s Day cards for seniors to spread happiness for the
coming holiday.
Library staff also performed outreach for teens at three events during January:
•On January 10 at Corona del Mar High School, staff presented library brochures and presented
volunteering opportunities, speaking to 65 students.
•On January 15, the Library hosted 40 English Language Development students at the Central
Library for a tour, scavenger hunt, and tutorial on using Libby (eBooks).
•On January 22, staff visited Ensign Middle School to present information on library services and
databases. There were 15 participants.
Staffing
Jensen Fahilga was hired as a Library Page for Corona del Mar Branch. There are currently four more
vacancies at the Central Library for Library Page, with two candidates in background, and recruitments
open for a part-time Library Clerk and a part-time Library Assistant.
Facilities
The City’s Public Works Department is coordinating two large-scale projects for the Central Library that
will begin work in the coming months:
•The first project is modernizing both the public and staff elevators. This will also involve replacing
an aging fire alarm panel to bring everything up to code. This work requires one elevator to always
be operational, and Library staff are prepared to ensure that patrons will be well-served during
this project.
35
Report of January Library Activities
February 24, 2025
Page 4
•The second project involves replacing air handlers that are original to the Library’s HVAC
equipment in the basement, which provide air throughout the building. They have required
additional maintenance and are showing a need for replacement. The project timeline anticipates
work beginning mid to late summer and will require an estimated three-week closure as the
building will be without any air flow from the HVAC system.
36
Proquest Articles Retrieved 2024-2025
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun AVG.
Business Databases 1279 1530 1636 1740 1907 4548 1849 2070
Newspapers--Current 1285 1161 1426 1277 1671 1266 1170 1322
Newspapers--Historical 3576 2019 1982 2675 2151 1601 2099 2300
Magazines 17 56 44 82 18 13 27 37
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
2024 2024 2024 2024 2024 2024 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025 2025
Tracked by #searches
A to Z Databases 684 644 411 436 972 419 1396 4962
Alexander Street 730 168 478 664 93 296 79 2508
Ancestry 588 514 290 249 201 453 331 2626
AskART 14 18 15 12 11 8 13 91
Brainfuse JobNow/VetNow 158 79 15 55 13 10 29 359
Britannica School Edition 1 119 1979 50 57 8 174 2388
Exploring Race in Society 2 5 29 32 30 4 12 114
Gale Archives Unbound 284 236 143 284 29 209 *1185
Gale Directory Library 16 36 78 75 16 8 9 238
Gale in Context: Biography 14 5 316 286 56 62 100 839
Gale in Context: Elementary 3 3 63 2 2 8 2 83
Gale in Context: Environmental 0 0 20 74 12 1 2 109
Gale in Context: Opposing View 1 2 343 233 765 37 73 1454
Gale Interactive: Science 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Gale Literature Resource Center 20 18 50 89 64 49 7 297
Gale eBooks 19 29 51 154 186 18 81 538
HeritageQuest 150 50 121 55 114 58 64 612
Legal Information Ref Center 103 86 68 44 39 12 49 401
National Geographic 14 26 60 143 60 42 56 401
National Geographic Kids 8 13 30 150 35 43 38 317
NewsBank 770 1638 1939 1159 1092 1137 1988 9723
NoveList Plus 81 23 64 31 45 30 54 328
NoveList K-8 Plus 41 6 22 26 22 41 17 175
ProQuest 3058 3526 4107 4074 4783 19420 4186 43154
Proquest eLibrary 4 34 39 18 8 10 9 122
Reference Solutions Business 325 359 366 211 274 294 483 2312
Reference Solutions Residential 33 9 17 5 37 15 22 138
SIRS Discoverer 2 16 120 283 410 180 292 1303
SIRS Issues Researcher 856 740 1317 1884 549 1646 665 7657
World Book Online 34 19 187 90 99 29 39 497
Tracked by #page views
Artist Works 3 4 2 1 5 1 7 23
Consumer Reports 2442 2585 1928 2089 2527 2319 1894 15784
CultureGrams 23 48 183 12 108 78 31 483
Morningstar 5545 4471 3207 9879 5902 7052 3816 39872
RealQuest 57 29 12 32 38 59 90 317
Tumblebooks 3 126 7 10 5 38 30 219
Value Line 12179 10816 12942 14370 11729 13208 9544 84788
Tracked by courses
LinkedIn Learning 291 257 332 405 312 252 240 2089
Tracked by books logged
Beanstack 9161 3189 3875 3256 2728 1731 2713 26653
Tracked by Hours Used
ABC Mouse 45.00 46.23 42.58 12.72 16.93 7.75 7.25 178.46
Beanstack 5385 445 280 265 144 163 163 6845
Rosetta Stone 58.01 53.38 63.06 25.70 7.23 27.50 32.97 267.85
Notes:
* Information unavailable at this time. Will add when received.
Database FY Comparisons YTD 24/25
37
NBPL Website Usage 2024-2025
Metric Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Total Users 31175 32341 28123 25891 24631 24092 29972 28032 196225
New Users 23890 24747 20174 17388 16099 14804 18764 19409 135866
Sessions 49426 50616 47008 44470 40519 39329 49749 45874 321117
Pageviews 106254 111503 106163 105742 92678 98196 114563 105014 735099
Sessions Per User 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 --
Pages Per Session 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 --
Avg. Session Dur. (min)5 6 6 6 6 8 7 6 --
Bounce Rate (%)60 62 59 56 61 61 61 60 --
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Total Data Transferred (GB) 2024-2025
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 152 125 155 147 132 186 133 147 1029
CdM 190 131 160 245 132 181 256 185 1294
Mariners 2000 1640 1900 1870 1570 1780 1730 1784 12490
Central 12550 13050 12600 13180 10860 11340 11940 12217 85520
Total 14892 14946 14815 15442 12694 13486 14058 14333 100333
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Total Unique Patrons 2024-2025
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 385 323 280 292 262 330 272 306 2144
CdM 406 308 320 403 279 321 398 348 2435
Mariners 1343 1286 1420 1464 1333 1404 1406 1379 9656
Central 8624 8913 9314 9920 8539 9091 9896 9185 64297
Total 10758 10830 11334 12079 10413 11146 11972 11219 78532
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Average Number of Patrons Per Day 2024-2025
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 36 28 25 26 24 24 26 27 189
CdM 24 20 20 26 19 22 27 23 158
Mariners 110 102 124 138 107 108 110 114 799
Central 665 628 673 692 549 590 611 630 4408
Total 835 778 842 882 699 744 774 793 5554
Today's Business Solutions Wireless (TBS): Average Usage Per Patron (MB) 2024-2025
Location Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Average Total
Balboa 404 397 566 514 516 576 500 496 3472
CdM 479 436 513 623 483 577 658 538 3768
Mariners 1520 1300 1370 1310 1200 1300 1260 1323 9260
Central 1490 1500 1380 1360 1300 1280 1240 1364 9550
Total 3893 3632 3829 3807 3499 3733 3657 3721 26050
38
JAN 25 YTD 24/25 YTD 23/24
BALBOA 2,364 18,304 15,977
CdM 3,529 25,790 25,946
MARINERS 19,929 144,571 148,807
CENTRAL 46,080 342,451 373,917
eBooks 8,509 56,436 54,535
eMagazines 6,869 38,516 31,016
eAudiobooks 7,936 53,150 44,614
Streaming Films 3,877 24,518 14,975
TOTAL 99,093 703,736 709,787
FEB 24 96,746
MAR 24 104,354
APR 24 100,244
MAY 24 98,839
JUN 24 103,516
JUL 24 107,857
AUG 24 103,800
SEP 24 100,426
OCT 24 101,444
NOV 24 97,545
DEC 24 93,571
JAN 25 99,093
TOTAL 1,207,435
12 Month Comparison
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - JANUARY 2025
CIRCULATION
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
eBooks
eMagazines
eAudiobooks
Streaming Films
90,000
95,000
100,000
105,000
110,000
FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 24 MAY 24 JUN 24 JUL 24 AUG 24 SEP 24 OCT 24 NOV 24 DEC 24 JAN 25
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
1,213,486
1,000,000
1,125,000
1,250,000
1,375,000
1,500,000
1,625,000
1,750,000
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 FY 23/24
CIRCULATION
39
JAN 25 YTD 24/25 YTD 23/24
BALBOA 420 2,698 2,629
CdM 729 4,955 4,038
MARINERS 1,960 14,145 13,862
CENTRAL 6,516 45,610 44,734
TOTAL 9,625 67,408 65,263
12 Month Comparison
FEB 24 9,654
MAR 24 10,057
APR 24 9,704
MAY 24 9,602
JUN 24 11,485
JUL 24 11,228
AUG 24 10,703
SEP 24 9,943
OCT 24 10,276
NOV 24 8,252
DEC 24 7,381
JAN 25 9,625
TOTAL 117,910
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - JANUARY 2025
REFERENCE
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
7,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
12,000
FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 24 MAY 24 JUN 24 JUL 24 AUG 24 SEP 24 OCT 24 NOV 24 DEC 24 JAN 25
168,496
162,510
157,149 156,521 163,392
131,445
78,088
105,958
108,242
115,765
70,000
90,000
110,000
130,000
150,000
170,000
190,000
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 FY 23/24
REFERENCE
40
JAN 25 YTD 24/25 YTD 23/24
BALBOA 2,039 15,380 14,364
CdM 3,029 22,448 21,319
MARINERS 12,896 85,404 93,261
CENTRAL 37,243 258,309 252,709
TOTAL 55,207 381,541 381,653
12 Month Comparison
FEB 24 53,105
MAR 24 54,930
APR 24 56,328
MAY 24 52,357
JUN 24 55,294
JUL 24 58,932
AUG 24 57,210
SEP 24 56,673
OCT 24 59,271
NOV 24 47,388
DEC 24 46,860
JAN 25 55,207
TOTAL 653,555
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - JANUARY 2025
PATRONS SERVED
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 24 MAY 24 JUN 24 JUL 24 AUG 24 SEP 24 OCT 24 NOV 24 DEC 24 JAN 25
1,256,238
1,209,719
1,102,106
1,158,344
935,953
636,072
145,463
512,178 623,295
653,667
100,000
300,000
500,000
700,000
900,000
1,100,000
1,300,000
1,500,000
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 FY 23/24
PATRONS SERVED IN LIBRARY
41
JAN 25 YTD 24/25 YTD 23/24
BALBOA 504 2,745 1,409
CdM 1,423 9,077 6,548
MARINERS 1,977 14,449 7,965
CENTRAL 6,069 52,493 41,173
TOTAL 9,973 78,764 57,095
12 Month Comparison
FEB 24 9,057
MAR 24 10,506
APR 24 9,632
MAY 24 12,893
JUN 24 10,546
JUL 24 14,436
AUG 24 12,885
SEP 24 13,203
OCT 24 14,313
NOV 24 7,689
DEC 24 6,265
JAN 25 9,973
TOTAL 131,398
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - JANUARY 2025
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
2,500
5,000
7,500
10,000
12,500
15,000
17,500
FEB 24 MAR 24 APR 24 MAY 24 JUN 24 JUL 24 AUG 24 SEP 24 OCT 24 NOV 24 DEC 24 JAN 25
64,473
67,646
69,922
70,430
68,241 68,078
52,678 64,397
78,293
109,729
45,000
55,000
65,000
75,000
85,000
95,000
105,000
115,000
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 FY 23/24
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
42
Jerold D Kappel, CEO
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation
Memo
To: Library Trustees
From: Jerold D Kappel, CEO
Date: February 13, 2025
Re: Library Foundation Report
1. The February 2025 Board Meeting was held on Monday February 10. Rebecca Lightfoot, AdultServices Director, gave a detailed overview of Project Adult Literacy. The Foundation Board ofDirectors were appreciative of the information about this program of the Library. PAL washighlighted in the recent edition of Bookmark.
a.The next Foundation Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 10, 2025.
2.The Foundation has matched the $500,000 anonymous matching gift challenge. With currentand future committed contributions, the Foundation has raised $10,814,811 towards itsagreement to fund $11,750,000 towards the construction of Witte Hall.
a.There was a discussion at the Board meeting regarding the potential to increase the size ofthe video screen on the rear of the stage. The Foundation will share the cost of the increase
with the City if the City approves the increase in size and shares the cost equally.
b.The Foundation’s Witte Hall tab on its website has a video showing the constructionprogress which is updated weekly.
c.The Foundation Development Committee has set up a cross-functional sub-committee tobegin planning for a Hall donor opening event the Thursday before the Hall Grand Opening.The committee is chaired by Randy Heyler. We do not know when the Grand Opening
weekend of the Hall will be, but we anticipate early to mid-February of 2026.
3.The Pals4PAL organization has received approval from the California Attorney General for itsdissolution. The Pals4PAL reserve and donor database will be transferred to the Foundation inthe next 30 days. The Foundation has a signed agreement with Pals4PAL which details theFoundation’s responsibility for PAL moving forward.
a.The Foundation will create a Committee of the Board for the Literacy funding we received.According to the agreement: “The Foundation Board shall establish and maintain a Literacy
43
2
Committee on the Foundation Board, with responsibility for initial review of City or Library grant requests and recommendation for approval to the Foundation Board of Directors, promotion of events, development and staffing of Literacy fundraising and recognition events, and similar items.” The full agreement has been provided to the Library Director and Trustee Liaison to the Foundation.
4. Programming
a. The Witte Lecture Series presentations with Bret Stephens for January 24 and 25 were sold out with a waiting list. Stephens was well received.
b. The remaining Witte Lectures are selling well, and we anticipate significant sales for all six remaining lectures (Friday evening and Saturday afternoon for the three remaining lectures).
c. The Spring Library Live lecture by Javier Zamora is sold out, and Viet Thanh Nguyen has very few tickets remaining.
d. The next free Medicine in Our Backyard lectures is a presentation on Managing Cardiovascular Disease by Irmina Gradus-Pizlo, MD on Monday February 24, 2025. There will be five lectures this Spring. Average attendance is +/- 70.
e. The six Spring free Finance Literacy Workshops that focus on estate planning return on March 24. The Foundation’s finance workshops are the most highly attended of any site that presents these workshops.
i. A reminder that no presenters at these workshops are licensed to sell any financial products. The presenter does not receive any attendee contact information.
f. The free Book Discussion Group has over 40 readers attending. The February book was It
Ain’t So Awful, Falafel by Firoozeh Dumas. It was a lively conversation and attracted many readers that had not attended previously. The Book Discussion Group runs monthly through May.
g. The free Spotlight on Science will feature Spring Spotlight will feature Dr. Grant MacGregor on CRISPR (gene editing) and renowned seismologist Lucy Jones on California tectonic activity (earthquakes.)
5. I am monitoring issues with California and federal funding of libraries. There is mounting concern that the incoming Congress and administration will zero out funding for the Institute of
Museum and Library Services. California receives $15 million from IMLS as a pass-through grant annually, the largest grant in the nation. The federal funding is about one-third of the total funding for libraries in the state. I have joined an informal group of library foundation CEOs to
encourage the state’s federal elected officials to resist defunding IMLS and for state elected officials to increase state funding of libraries.
6. Bookmark, the winter 2025 edition, has been well received and we had to do a reprint to fulfill
the numerous requests for additional copies. The magazine is distributed throughout all four branches, at Oasis, City Hall, Newport Beach Community Centers, and other public buildings.
a. We will continue to highlight Library events and programs in Bookmark.
7. The annual Summer Solstice event is set for June 18, and the event will be held in the Community Room as the courtyard will be under construction. Trustees are always invited to this event. This year we will honor Karen Heath Clark for her many years of leadership as a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation. It should be noted that Karen served as a Library Trustee before joining the Foundation Board.
44