HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-20-2023-BLT-AGENDA PACKETCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES AGENDA
Newport Beach Central Library
1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Monday, November 20, 2023 - 5:00 PM
Board of Library Trustees Members:
Paul Watkins, Chair
Dorothy Larson, Vice Chair
Lauren Kramer, Secretary
Antonella Castro, 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, November 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.CALL MEETING TO ORDER
II.ROLL CALL
III.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IV.NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
The City provides a yellow sign-in card to assist in the preparation of the minutes. The
completion of the card is not required in order to address the Board of Library Trustees. If the
optional sign-in card has been completed, it should be placed in the tray provided.
The Board of Library Trustees of Newport Beach welcomes and encourages community
participation. Public comments are generally limited to three (3) minutes per person to allow
everyone to speak. Written comments are encouraged as well. The Board of Library Trustees
has the discretion to extend or shorten the time limit on agenda or non-agenda items. As a
courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode
November 20, 2023
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Board of Library Trustees Meeting
V.CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under CONSENT CALENDAR are considered to be routine and will all be
enacted by one motion in the form listed below. Board of Library Trustees have received
detailed staff reports on each of the items recommending an action. There will be no separate
discussion of these items prior to the time the Board of Library Trustees votes on the motion
unless members of the Board of Library Trustees request specific items to be discussed and/or
removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Members of the public who wish to
discuss a Consent Calendar item should come forward upon invitation by the Chair.
A.Consent Calendar Items
Minutes of the Oct 16, 2023 Board of Library Trustees Meeting (pp. 5-15)1.
DRAFT MINUTES
Patron Comments (pp. 16-17)2.
Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests
received from patrons.
PATRON COMMENTS
Patron's Request for Evaluation of Library Resources (pp. 18-70)3.
Monthly review of evaluations of library resources as requested by patrons with
corresponding staff responses.
PATRON REQUESTS FOR EVALUATION
Library Activities (pp. 71-82)4.
Monthly update of library events, services and statistics.
OCTOBER ACTIVITIES
Expenditure Status Report (p. 83)5.
Monthly expenditure status of the library's operating expenses, services, salaries and
benefits by department.
OCTOBER EXPENDITURES
Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List (p. 84)6.
List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of project by the Board of Library
Trustees.
MONITORING LIST
November 20, 2023
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Board of Library Trustees Meeting
VI.CURRENT BUSINESS
A.Items for Review
Library Lecture Hall Policy (NBPL 15)(pp. 85-90)7.
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees continue the review of Library
Policy NBPL 15, Library Lecture Hall, to a future date in the next calendar year after
the Library Lecture Hall project bid is accepted and the construction contract is
awarded.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENT A
Consideration for Children's Collection Development Policy (pp. 91-94)8.
Staff recommends forming an ad hoc subcommittee to consider amending Library
Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy, or creating a separate Children’s
Collection Development Policy, to address guidelines for Children’s materials
selection and bringing its recommendations to the Board of Library Trustees for
approval.
STAFF REPORT
ATTACHMENT A
Grant Acceptance from California Library Literacy Services (p. 95)9.
Staff recommends that Board of Library Trustees approve the acceptance of a grant
from California Library Literacy Services to support the Newport Beach Public
Library's Project Adult Literacy program.
STAFF REPORT
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation Wish List (p. 96)10.
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees approve the wish list request
for funding from the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation.
STAFF REPORT
Lecture Hall Update11.
Report on activities related to the Library Lecture Hall project.
Balboa Branch Replacement Update12.
Report on activities related to the Balboa Branch Replacement project.
November 20, 2023
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Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Library Services (pp. 71-82)13.
Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons, and staff.
B.Monthly Reports
Library Foundation Liaison Reports (pp. 97-98)14.
A. Library Foundation Board - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
B. Library Live Lectures Committee - Report of the most recently attending meeting.
C. Witte Lectures Committee - Report of the most recently attended meeting.
FOUNDATION REPORT
Friends of the Library Liaison Report15.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Literacy Services Liaison Report16.
Trustee update of the most recently attended Literacy Services Advisory Board
meeting.
VII.PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Public comments are invited, and non-agenda items generally considered to be within the
subject matter jurisdiction of the Board of Library Trustees. Speakers must limit comments to
three (3) minutes. Before speaking, we invite, but do not require, you to state your name for the
record. The Board of Library Trustees has the discretion to extend or shorten the speakers’
time limit on agenda or non-agenda items, provided the time limit adjustment is applied equally
to all speakers. As a courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
VIII.BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION
ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
IX.ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
Board of Library Trustees Crean Mariners Branch 1300 Irvine Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Meeting Minutes Monday, October 16, 2023 – 5:00 p.m.
I.CALL MEETING TO ORDER – 5:01 P.M.
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 Antonella Castro
Trustees Absent: Secretary Lauren Kramer, Trustee Doug Coulter
Staff Present: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director Rebecca Lightfoot, Library Services Manager
Annika Helmuth, Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Andrew Kachaturian, Circulation and Technical Processing Coordinator Erin Spivey, Adult Services Coordinator
Alex Johnkins, Branch Librarian
Staff Absent None
Library Services Director Melissa Hartson introduced Alex Johnkins as the Mariners Branch Librarian.
III.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Chair Paul Watkins led the Pledge of Allegiance
IV.NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC - Waived
V.CONSENT CALENDARAdministrative Support Specialist Jacome read the Consent Calendar Notice to the Public.
Chair Watkins called for any requested items to be pulled for separate action or discussion.
Trustee Antonella Castro requested a couple minutes to review the responses before sheapproved that she had reviewed them.
A.Consent Calendar Items
1.Minutes of the September 18, 2023 Board of Library Trustees Meeting
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Chair Watkins referenced handwritten page 6 of the minutes, four or five lines from the bottom, the percentage symbol following the number 4 should be removed as there were four Newport Beach winners, not 4%.
Chair Watkins referenced handwritten page 7, under Item 7, “not withstanding” should be one word.
2. Patron Comments Monthly review of evaluations of library services through suggestions and requests
received from patrons. 3. Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics. 4. Library Activities Monthly update of library events, services, and statistics. Chair Watkins referenced handwritten page 15 and complimented Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey for doing a great job with the policy on Service Animals.
Vice Chair Dorothy Larson questioned if they were members of the American Library Association.
Library Services Director Hartson explained that the Newport Beach Public Library does not have an organizational membership to the American Library Association.
Chair Watkins requested more information on the request for a 3D printer in the Media Lab. Library Services Director Hartson explained that although the initial cost is feasible for a nice wish list item in the future, the expense comes into play for the ongoing cost of maintaining the printer. Filament ink generally lasts about eighty hours per roll and is expensive to replace; however, the Library does charge for printing, so that could be evaluated. Library Services Director Hartson recommended future enhancements to the Media Lab be considered and suggested looking more forward in terms of what could be available in the future.
Chair Watkins commented on how resourceful Adult Services Coordinator Spivey and Library Assistant Erik Gunderson were with reaching out to Manchester University in
England, in response to a patron’s request for assistance in answering a research question. 5. Expenditure Status Report Monthly expenditure status of the library’s operating expenses, services, salaries, and benefits by department. Chair Watkins reported that they are 25% through the fiscal year (FY) and at 23.4% over all expenditures, making them currently under budget for the year.
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6. Board of Library Trustees Monitoring List List of agenda items and dates for monthly review of projects by the Board of Library Trustees.
Chair Watkins commented that he appreciated seeing Patron’s Requests for Evaluation every month versus one at a time. He believes that will work out better and looks forward
to seeing more in the future. Trustee Castro stated she feels it makes the public feel more like they are being heard
when it’s included in every meeting agenda. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments, there were none. Motion made by Vice Chair Dorothy Larson, seconded by Trustee Antonella Castro, and carried (3-0-0-2 Coulter and Kramer absent) to approve the Consent Calendar with the minor changes to the August draft minutes. AYES: Watkins, Larson, Castro NOES: ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENCES: Kramer, Coulter VI. CURRENT BUSINESS A. Items for Review 7. Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the proposed amendments to Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy,
made by the Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee. Library Services Director Hartson reported that the Collection Development Ad Hoc Subcommittee met to incorporate the discussion items from the motion that was made at the September meeting. In the Patron’s Rights section “or the Library Services Director may take up other actions pursuant to the Collection Maintenance Section of this policy” was added, and “The Library and the Library Services Director are continually evaluating the collection, and on their own initiative may take actions with respect to the collection based on this policy” was added to the Collection Maintenance section. They also changed references to “this Policy” for streamlining purposes.
Chair Watkins referenced the redlined version on page 42 and stated that it was helpful for the attorney to clarify the legal terms of the policy and expressed hope that the new policy could now be executed with the monthly receipt of the patron’s requests for
evaluation and with the decisions made by the senior staff. Chair Watkins referenced page 48 and the request form, noting Patron Requests area was added and finds it very helpful including those in each monthly agenda packet. He also liked the additional space added
for the patrons to add their comments. Chair Watkins referenced page 49 and requested staff and the Board’s consideration to change the verbiage “Please note your specific objections” to “Please note your specific concerns”, citing it is more polite; and eliminating the references of “III-C” at the bottom of pages 48 and 49.
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Vice Chair Larson commented that the changes made sense and the policy was well written.
Trustee Castro commented it’s good for a general collection policy, however, at the end she had some ideas for things to consider for a future standalone children’s collection
development policy. Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments.
Motion made by Vice Chair Larson, seconded by Trustee Castro, and carried (3-0-0-2 Coulter and Kramer absent) to approve the general Collection Development Policy (NBPL 2) changes as shown on Handwritten pages 45 through 47. AYES: Watkins, Larson, Castro NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENCES: Coulter, Kramer 8. Mariners Branch Update
Mariners Branch Librarian Alex Johnkins will provide the annual overview of Mariners Branch operations.
Mariners Branch Librarian Alex Johnkins reported that the Donna and John Crean Mariners Branch is the only Newport Beach Library branch that shares space with an elementary school through a joint-use agreement. When school is in session half of the
children’s section is closed to the public, however Library staff is available to retrieve items requested by the general public. Storytimes are performed twice a week along with other programs that are held throughout the year. The Mariners Branch is supported by full-time Children’s Librarian Christine Chapel and Reference Librarian Leah Duffy, as well as three library assistants, seven library clerks and four library pages. The service population for the Mariners Branch is 26,983 people which includes patrons from Costa Mesa and surrounding areas. Between July 2022 and June of 2023, the Mariners Branch had a 10% increase in reference questions and more than double the circulation of materials. Several building updates took place last year to include exterior paint, new fire alarms, and updated HVAC components. Outdoor storytimes are held in Mariners Park, located behind the Branch, weather permitting. It’s a very popular program. They often see 70 or more
participants. Mariners Branch storytime was nominated for Best Storytime by OC
Parenting Magazine.
Vice Chair Larson commented that the update on the building and children’s area turned out beautiful, noting the children’s area is inspirational and fun.
Chair Watkins inquired how often they are able to take the group into Mariners Park for storytime. Librarian Johnkins explained that typically most summer storytimes are in the park. The children appreciate the outdoor storytimes because they can be louder. Trustee Castro asked how many participants usually attend.
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Librarian Johnkins answered they’ve seen up to 85, generally 50 to 60 attendees are regulars.
Chair Watkins opened the item for public comments.
Mrs. Rhonda Watkins, Newport Beach resident, asked if people could hear the storytime when so many people attend.
Trustee Castro asked Librarian Johnkins if they had to give two things the Branch would love to have, what would they be. Librarian Johnkins replied they have a speaker system they use, which also plays the music for the sing-a-longs. The two items include another couch for the puppet theater and study rooms have been requested, however, they are not able to provide those for lack of space. Most nights, the desks fill up. Vice Chair Larson noted that parking can often be a challenge. Librarian Johnkins stated that between 5 and 6 p.m. is often a busier time because people
come to pick up their children who attend the Recreation and Senior Services’ afterschool program.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 9. Youth Services Update
Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth will provide the annual overview of Youth Services. Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth reported on the Board’s annual Youth Services Update from October 2022 through September 2023. Staff provide a variety of services, resources, and materials for children ages 0-12. Youth Services has staff at all four locations, with a total of eleven team members. Library Assistant Bernadette Gilliam was nominated for the City’s 2023 Dorothy Palen Award for her outstanding commitment and integrity in her work. The Children’s Collection and Circulation currently has over 83,000 titles stocked at all four locations. Non-fiction is the largest single collection. There was a generous Newport Beach Foundation donor who sponsored the
acquisition of several non-fiction books about the White House and national holidays, biographies on significant figures. The donation was received last year, they completed the addition of those titles. The turnover rate on children’s material remains high. Over
1,300 children library cards were added over the last year, and youth programs offered increased by 34% from the prior year. The number of programs offered is 608, as opposed to last year’s 453 programs. Corona del Mar Branch hosted a Holiday Open House event
in December 2022 that was attended by 1,250 visitors and featured a new partnership with the Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD). The NMUSD Performing Arts group have been asked to return this year. National Library week in April was celebrated with several City dignitaries as guest readers. The Summer Reading Program was up by about 16%, specifically program attendance saw 139% increase over last year. Outreach includes inviting groups in, field trips for offsite visits, open house style events, and large expos. Youth staff toured, presented to, or staffed events for an outreach total of 6,319
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participants, an over 100% increase over last year's 3,044 participants. Eight visits are planned for the upcoming school year.
Vice Chair Larson commended Ms. Helmuth for her report and the many programs they continue to add for the youth of the city.
Trustee Castro asked if the Youth Services team is responsible for reviewing the materials used.
Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Annika Helmuth answered they are usually assigned parts of the collection to review in an ongoing effort. Some of the factors in reviewing current titles include how often an item is checked out, the condition of the item, how many holds the item has, if an item is on a school’s reading list, or if it received an award. Trustee Castro inquired about the Summer Reading program, commenting that she had heard that they were exploring the option to customize the reading program. Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth explained they run their summer reading program through a company called Beanstack. The Library staff builds its own challenge
every year and offer a paper game sheet option for those who do not want to use Beanstack.
Chair Watkins asked if they accepted input from patrons as part of the building process. Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth responded that they do.
Mrs. Rhonda Watkins, Newport Beach resident, inquired if teenagers are part of the youth they work with. Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth explained that teens are outside the scope of Youth Services which is considered age 12 and under. Teen Services provide programs for age 13 – 17-year-olds. Vice Chair Larson asked if the Summer Reading Program consisted of a list of books participants had to choose from.
Branch and Youth Services Coordinator Helmuth stated the kids can read whatever they’d like; they have many options of participation such as recording the number of minutes read, writing book reviews, and doing early literacy activities.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 10. Patron Connections Staff will provide an overview of Fiscal Year 2022-23 statistics and present community connections beyond quantifiable statistics. Library Services Manager Rebecca Lightfoot reported that staff have been looking at how they are connecting with the community. Certain statistics are quantifiable such as circulation, door count, reference transactions, program attendance, etcetera. They are
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seeking a more comprehensive look to find numbers they had previously accessed. Some included the Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) mobile application (app) and they saw that last year there were almost 60,000 sessions. Central is the only Branch able to track
phone calls based on the software they have and only includes calls for circulation and reference; last year they received over 21,000 phone calls. Over 1,000 passports were issued, and they proctored 112 tests. Services have evolved in the last decade,
particularly during the pandemic, which significantly increased the number of downloadable audio and eBooks and have since come down since the buildings were re-opened to the public. Last year, 86,000 eBooks were checked out, in addition to 72,000
audio books, 24,000+ magazines, 9,000+ movies, and 1,500+ comics through Comics Plus. All these represent ways in which the Library touched the community without the patrons visiting the branch locations. While those numbers are important, the stories behind the numbers are what matter. Included in the Staff Report update, Library Services Manager Lightfoot shared patron comments staff received that highlight the value of the service the Library provides. Chair Watkins commented that Library Services Director Hartson suggested expanding the number of patrons who walk in the door to include 25 other categories where the Library had made contact through other means. Those categories are listed on handwritten page 58. They now reflect 3,172,573 contacts annually. That number is more
reflective of what they are doing and in what ways they are affecting the community. Chair Watkins believes it is important to include those additional categories with the foot traffic count and add a footnote explaining the difference. He would like to include updated
numbers in the Fiscal Year 2023-24 reports. Vice Chair Larson inquired about self-directed activities.
Library Services Manager Lightfoot explained that self-directed activities are take home crafts, or a Zine program where adults and teens can make a homemade magazine. Trustee Castro asked if a chat feature is available for talking to staff members or would they have to send an email and inquired if it would be a future consideration. Library Services Manager Lightfoot responded that anyone can call the Library. The website does not offer a chat function; however, staff could certainly take a look at that option.
Chair Watkins opened the item for public comment. Mr. Jerry Kappel, NBPLF CEO, asked if Library Services Manager could provide him a
column for the Foundation’s publication based on the touches in the community. Library Services Manager Lightfoot answered she would be happy to do that.
Mr. Kappel commented that the website chat feature is the most complained-about website interactive option. If they consider adding it as a feature, he suggested they really look deep into what the interaction feature is that they choose, and what the satisfaction rating it has.
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Fiona, Newport Beach resident and an OASIS Senior Center volunteer, stated that their meals-on-wheels program has 60 homebound seniors living in Newport Beach and noticed the Library has a book delivery program for homebound seniors. She suggested
the two programs cross pollenate. She could deliver a flyer to them when she delivers the meals so they would be aware that the Library would deliver materials to them as well.
Library Services Director Hartson stated it would be a great idea, and she would put Fiona in contact with Adult Services Coordinator Spivey.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 11. Lecture Hall Update Library Services Director Hartson reported that the bids for the lecture hall closed last Thursday. The lowest bid was just over $19 million. There were three bids submitted. The lowest bid came from the same company as the last time. Mr. Kappel, NPBLF CEO, added that the Board of the Foundation approved the wording of the Third Amendment to the original Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). It will now be in the process of getting more accurate numbers as contingencies are required. They
will be in negotiations with the City and City Council moving forward on the MOU. Chair Watkins commented that if there were a 10% contingency that would be $2 million
with a management fee of $250,000 which would then take them to just over $21 million. That may not be accurate, however, those additional items should be considered.
Vice Chair Larson questioned if the original $19 million included contingencies. Library Services Director Hartson answered she didn’t know the answer to that question. Mr. Kappel replied that according to his contact, they were added expenses. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 12. Balboa Branch Replacement Update Vice Chair Larson reported that she attended a subsequent meeting at Balboa Branch,
which included discussions about what they wanted the Branch to look like and where it may be positioned on the lot relative to the fire station.
Chair Watkins added that Public Works Director Dave Webb had asked the Ad Hoc Subcommittee to come up with elevations, and they will be providing a report with a word description of welcoming, charming, beachy, and in a way old school, with an architectural
element that could be craftsman type, or yacht club white type of style. They will refine the report that Vice Chair Larson has created and add some pictures of the type of style they would like to see and send it back to Public Works Director Webb. Chair Watkins stated a design meeting is quite far into the future as they are currently working on concepts. There will likely be a lot of public outreach once the architect can move past concepts.
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Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 13. Library Services Report of Library issues regarding services, patrons and staff
Library Services Director Hartson reported that the California State Park Passes still continue to do well. They are ranked second in the State in terms of the number of passes they have and the number of check outs per pass. The program is set to sunset at the end
of June 2024; however, they remain hopeful that the State will extend the program. The café space has been vacant for a number of months; however, the Community Development Department (CDD) has indicated that they have opened the space up for lease. CDD is hosting an open house on Wednesday, November 8, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. A number of steps will need to take place, but they are very pleased at how they managed to clean up the space to show it. Future program items include the Foundation’s Library Live and Witte Lecture Series, Medicine in Our Backyard, which began on September 25, and Spotlight on Science. On November 12, 2023, the Library will be presenting a Sunday Musicale. The next Board of Library Trustee’s meeting will be November 20, at the Central Library.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Monthly Reports 14. Library Foundation Liaison Reports A. Library Foundation Board Report on the most recently attended meeting.
Chair Watkins commented that Mr. Kappel’s three-page report at the end of the packet was very well done and referred the Board to that report for the summary of the Library Foundation Board. Mr. Kappel added that they started a program with the Foundation that is in contract with an organization called FreeWill and is in support of the Foundation and its donors. OASIS may want to tag on to it as well, as it is free to the entire community and any library patron and promotes financial literacy. Similar to the Foundation sponsoring the It’s Your Money financial workshops, as of this morning, there were 35 people talking about medical financial planning. There will be brochures throughout the branches. It is a program that is Federally and State validated.
Trustee Castro inquired if they had reached out to underwriters aside from the Foundation for sponsorship.
Mr. Kappel replied no, the Foundation is sponsoring it. If she had suggestions, he would gladly accept them.
Trustee Castro complimented the Foundation’s donor reception. Her husband went in her place and thought it was a wonderful event.
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Chair Watkins stated that they knocked it out of the park, the food was great, and California State Librarian Mr. Greg Lucas did a wonderful job. It was an amazing evening.
Chair Watkins received and filed the report. B. Library Live Lectures Committee
Report on the most recently attended meeting. Library Services Director Hartson reported that the first two Library Live lectures are
already sold out. Lisa See is October 19, Steve Lopez is scheduled for November 9. One hundred-eleven season passes have been sold for Library Live, which is a great response to their first year offering the passes. In the new year, they will wrap up with Michael Scott Moore on February 15 and Tess Gunty on April 18. The Library Live committee is already planning for the 2024-25 season. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. C. Witte Lectures Committee Report on the most recently attended meeting.
Vice Chair Larson reported that the Witte Lectures Committee is planning for the 2024-25 season. They now have season ticket sales, which has been very popular. None of the Witte Lectures have sold out to date. The speakers coming up include Fiona Hill on
January 26 and Saturday January 27, who wrote Currents of Modern History: A Personal
and Global Perspective. Pulitzer Prize winner Ed Yong, who authored An Immense World, is scheduled to speak February 9 and 10. On March 8 and 9, author Richard Reeves Of
Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male is Struggling, Why it Matters and What to Do about
It is scheduled. On April 12 and 13, Witte will host Michele Bratcher Goodwin, a Chancellor’s Professor at University of California, Irvine, in conversation with Dahlia Lithwick, MSNBC analyst and senior legal correspondent. Tickets can now be purchased using ACH payments. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 15. Friends of the Library Liaison Report Trustee update on the most recently attended Friends of the Library Board meeting.
Library Services Director Hartson stated she received a report from Trustee Coulter. The used book sale event resulted in $3,280 from the sale in the Friends Room and $2,068
from the bookstore; and $975 from membership fees. This totals $6,323 that was raised during the two-day event and broke their record. The total membership numbers for September were 852 members. They continue to have specials during the week. The net
income for July through September 2022 came in at $47,503 raised. For July through September 2023, that number was $46,386. Chair Watkins received and filed the report. 16. Literacy Services Liaison Report Trustee update of the most recently attended Literacy Services Advisory Board.
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Trustee Castro stated there is no report for this month. VII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS NBPLF CEO Mr. Kappel, commented that on November 15 the Foundation will be opening
their new season of Spotlight on Science. It’s a free event, with 187 people already registered. They anticipate it will reach maximum capacity. His goal includes all of the programs other than Library Live and Witte, be free and open to the public in support of
what the Library is. He has three sponsorship requests out for Spotlight on Science. He hopes to know those results within the month. Trustee Castro requested the information on the first Spotlight. Mr. Kappel answered that on Wednesday, November 15, Professor Padhraic Smyth, PhD will be speaking about artificial intelligence (AI) and large language and data models and their impacts, doors open at 6:30 p.m. Chair Watkins opened the item to public comment.
Mrs. Rhonda Watkins, Newport Beach resident, inquired if there would be programs for any age group regarding the authenticity of news reports.
Mr. Kappel stated they considered it, but they have not yet found a place for it. It is on the Foundation’s radar. VIII. BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
Trustee Castro requested staff explore creating a children’s collection development policy to see if it’s appropriate for elementary aged children. Chair Watkins sunset the Collection Development Policy Ad Hoc Subcommittee. IX. ADJOURNMENT – 6:18 p.m. November’s meeting will be held at the Central Library on November 20, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.
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NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTSOCTOBER 2023Comment # CommentResponseDate ReceivedSource of CommentStaff MemberStaff Member TitleDate Responded to Patron 110/05/2023EmailRebecca LightfootLibrary Services Manager10/06/2023210/05/2023EmailErin SpiveyAdult Services Coordinator10/06/2023310/06/2023EmailAndy KachaturianCirc. & Tech. Processing Coordinator10/06/2023410/09/2023EmailRebecca LightfootLibrary Services Manager10/09/2023510/10/2023EmailAnnika HelmuthBranch & Youth Services Coordinator10/10/2023610/12/2023EmailGabriela LemanLiteracy Coordinator10/16/2023I published a children's book and I'd love to add it to the library shelves. How can I go about doing so?Thank you for your interest in the Newport Beach Public Library. I would be happy to take a look at your children's book and evaluate it for our collection. You may drop it off at the Central Library, or mail it in, and I will get back to you. I love the library and would like to learn more about volunteer opportunities where I can get involved and give back. As I was going through the Literacy Program orientation video, I saw that they advertised other options for getting involved, such as an assessor, Advisory Board, etc. Is there more information about this that you can share? Thank you.Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Project Adult Literacy. Our program thrives on the support and commitment of volunteers from the community, like you. In general, all volunteers must be at least 24 years old, complete an orientation and trainings sessions, and be willing to commit to volunteering for at least a year. In addition, all volunteers must also successfully pass a background check. Once you have met these minimum requirements, we can begin to work with you on a particular area of skill or interest that you have. There are no additional requirements to become an assessor. We provide you with the training to administer individual assessments to our adult learners. In terms of becoming a board member, there are additional requirements necessary. In general, you would need to consider your ability to attend all board meetings, actively participate in committee assignments and planning, and participate in fundraising. If you are still interested in becoming a board member, we would ask that you email your resume to literacy@newportbeachca.gov. We will provide it to our literacy board for review and they would reach out to you directly. Thank you.I’m interested in working at the library. Do you have any open positions currently? Graduated from UCI in June 2023 and studying for the LSAT now. Please let me know if you have any opportunities available. Thank you.Thank you for your interest in working for the Library! All of our job openings are posted on the City’s website here... You can also fill out a job interest card on the City’s website to be notified by email whenever a new job in the Library is posted... I hope that helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you.If I have books I am looking to donate, does your library accept anything like that? Or would you have any recommended book donation drives or a company you could refer me to instead? Thank you for thinking of the library for your book donations. We have a Friends of the Library bookstore that does accept donations and they do a fantastic job of raising money for the library. This is their website if you would like to contact them... Ironically, this is one of very few weekends that they are not accepting donations because they are staffing a big book sale that they do a few times a year. But if you give them a call at 949-759-9667, I am sure they can make arrangements starting again on Monday, especially if you have a large number of boxes. Thank you again for contacting us.Here at the Newport Beach Film Festival we have a selection of films that are based on books. I was wondering if I could send the flyer over so that you can promote it to the public in case anyone is interested? Thank you for your time. Certainly, we would be happy to put out promotional materials for the Film Festival. Feel free to drop them off or mail them to us. Thank you.I cannot find the length of book check-out on your website. Two or three weeks? Thank you.I’m sorry to hear you were having trouble finding our circulation policies on the NBPL website. For future reference, you can find everything you need to know about check out lengths for different materials here... Typically, books check out for three weeks. They will also renew automatically as long as no one else is waiting for the item. The only exception to this rule is our Lucky Day books, which only circulate for one week at a time and are marked by a green clover on the spine of the book. Please let me know if you have any further questions. Have a wonderful Friday!16
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRON COMMENTSOCTOBER 2023Comment # CommentResponseDate ReceivedSource of CommentStaff MemberStaff Member TitleDate Responded to Patron 710/16/2023EmailRebecca LightfootLibrary Services Manager10/16/2023810/18/2023U.S. MailRebecca LightfootLibrary Services Manager10/18/2023910/19/2023Comment CardAndy KachaturianCirc. & Tech. Processing Coordinator10/20/20231010/24/2023Comment CardErin SpiveyAdult Services Coordinator10/25/20231110/26/2023EmailAndy KachaturianCirc. & Tech. Processing Coordinator10/26/20231210/27/2023EmailAndy KachaturianCirc. & Tech. Processing Coordinator10/27/20231310/31/2023EmailRebecca LightfootLibrary Services Manager10/31/2023How can I return a book to you? I am currently in Los Angeles and am finished with the book. Thanks for understanding. Take care, have an awesome day…Certainly! You can return the book to us at the following address... I currently show that the one item you have out is due on 11/17, so that should be plenty of time to arrive through the mail. We will check this in off your account just as soon as we receive it. Thank you.Jeremy was a wonderful helper to my friend from Estonia. He helped get her boarding pass and check, which was complicated.Thank you for taking the time to complete a library feedback card. We are so happy to hear that Jeremy Rodriguez was able to be of service to you on your recent visit to the library. Jeremy is a valued member of our team, often going above and beyond to serve patron needs. We are so glad that he was able to assist your friend with her travel documents. Thank you again for taking the time to share your appreciation of Jeremy.As a local event planner, I’ve seen a few weddings while I was there. How do I contact someone to inquire about a certain day? Thank you! While the Library itself does not allow weddings on the grounds or in our buildings, some of the City parks do. You can contact the Recreation and Senior Services Department to find out more about which parks are available. Here is a link to their special permit application webpage with contact information... I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you.I wanted to see if you accept book donations? We have quite a lot of cookbooks that we need to get rid of.Thank you for thinking of us. The Friends of the Library operate a bookstore at our Central Library and handle donations that come to the library. If you visit this webpage, they have helpful information on what they are able to accept and the best times to drop things off... Their contact information is listed as well, but you can reach them by telephone at 949-759-9667 Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.Unequivocally, Newport Beach Public Library and its restroom facilities are the best-equipped, furnished and maintained in the southwest. The entirety of the campus is clean and well-maintained. Your excellence in providing restroom facilities far exceeds expectations. It is hard to improve on utter perfection.I would like to thank you for taking the time to fill out a comment card and to speak to our administration staff on Thursday, 10/19/2023, regarding the cleanliness of the restrooms and general maintenance of the Central Library. It means a lot to us here to know that we are providing a positive experience to the patrons of the library, and we realize that much of this depends upon the environment and the atmosphere of the buildings themselves. I have passed along your compliment to our janitorial staff that works hard to keep the building looking good throughout the day--that sort of effort is not always recognized, so we really do appreciate your kind words. The Central Library is nearly thirty years old and it is not uncommon to see 1,000+ visitors a day, so we take great pride in patrons still enjoying their library to the degree you have articulated. Thank you again for taking the time to let us know about your experience.I am currently pursuing a MLIS from IUPUI and would like to inquire about any potential openings a the Newport Beach Library. I have a few years of experience working in the Biola University Library Technical Services Department including transcription workflow creation, archival project work, and interviewing, hiring, and training student workers. I would be happy to send my CV for further review. Thank you for your time.Thank you for your interest in working for the Library! All of our job openings are posted on the City’s website here... You can also fill out a job interest card on the City’s website to be notified by email whenever a new job in the Library is posted... I hope that helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you.I would like to give your Reference Desk a big shout out. Each time I call and ask if the Library has a book, the person who I speak to always is so helpful. They are always so kind, cheery and make me feel that I am important. The emails that I receive when asked to purchase a book, or the audio, are right on. Thank you to all who have helped me with books. Your team is one in a million. Thank you everyone for being such a great team, and for always being so helpful. Thank you.Thank you so much for your recent thank you card. It was so kind of you to take the time to let us know how much you appreciate the services and staff here at the Newport Beach Public Library. I'm glad we've been able to be so helpful. I will share your thoughts with staff. If there is ever anything we can do to improve your experience, please don't hesitate to let us know. Thank you.17
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Rosaline E. Banker - ATTACHMENT A
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NOTE TO LIBRARIANS I am an educated women, having raised 3 boys to adulthood. I remember sitting down with two of them and reading a "sex" (age appropriate) book to them -they were about 8 and 10. They squirmed around and finally said, "Mom, can we watch Batman?" I really don't believe 8, 9, or 10 year old boys are much different these days. If I had read these books (George, White Privilege, and Not My Idea) when I was 9, 10, 11, or even older, I would have been totally confused and probably frightened. And I would have been frightened to even see a Black person or policeman. These books would have made no sense at all. These books are just not appropriate for young children. The subject matter is something for parents to talk to them about when the PARENTS think it is appropriate. Unfortunately, I understand these 3 books are extremely "tame" compared to many other books in the local libraries available to children -books on "how to" sex with illustrations, foul language, and other "gender fluid" mumbo-jumbo for indoctrinating our young children. Please take these comments under consideration when buying "Children's Books" for the library. Thank you. Rosaline E. Banker - ATTACHMENT B
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CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
November 20, 2023
Agenda Item No. 4
MELISSA HARTSON, LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR
Distinguished Citizen’s Program
On October 18, I had the opportunity to speak to the Fall 2023 class of the Newport Beach Foundation’s
Distinguished Citizen Program. The program is designed to teach participants about the key components
that form the foundation of Newport Beach. My presentation focused on a high-level overview of the
Library, including the Cultural Arts Division, and our mission and role in serving the community.
Greet Corona del Mar
Staff worked with Councilmember Lauren Kleiman to develop a Library article for the November 2023
magazine issue of Greet Corona del Mar. Councilmember Kleiman focused on the vast array of Library
offerings beyond books, featuring the eBranch, programs for all ages, unique collections to check out,
Project Adult Literacy, and much more. A copy of the article is included at the end of this month’s activities
report.
WHEELHOUSE LIST FOR LIBRARY TRUSTEES
•Library Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday
Thursday, November 23 and Friday, November 24
All Locations
•Sunday Musicale: Seraphour Vocal Quartet
Sunday, December 10, 3 p.m.
Friends Meeting Room, Central Library
•Holiday Open House
Sunday, December 3, 11 a.m.
Corona del Mar Branch
•Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Monday, December 11, 5 p.m.
Central Library
TO: BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES
FROM: Library Services Department
Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
(949)717-3801, mhartson@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Melissa Hartson, Library Services Director
TITLE: Report of October Library Activities – November 20, 2023 Meeting
71
Report of October Library Activities
November 20, 2023
Page 2
REBECCA LIGHTFOOT, LIBRARY SERVICES MANAGER
Programming
In October, the Library hosted a Storytellers Writing Workshop 3-class session. It was well attended and
received much positive feedback from its participants.
Sunday Musicale, on October 15, featured violinist Ambroise Aubrun and pianist Steven Vanhauwaert.
The crowd-pleasing duo had 167 patrons in attendance and received a standing ovation.
Literacy
Literacy Coordinator Gabriela Leman attended several meetings in October: one on Career Online High
School, one on the Writer-to-Writer Workshop, and a general meeting of the Southern California Library
Literacy Network.
In addition, Gabriela conducted a networking meeting with representatives from Huntington Beach Adult
School. She gave a presentation on PAL and answered questions on how they can collaborate between
programs.
ANNIKA HELMUTH, BRANCH AND YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR
Branch Activities
During Fire Safety week, the Corona del Mar Branch held a joint program with Fire Station 5 to host “Fire
Station Storytime”. Two-hundred and eighty-nine participants took a tour of the Fire Station and were
treated to a special storytime with books read by Firefighter Matt followed by a fun fire truck themed
craft. At the end of the month, the branches celebrated the Halloween season. Halloween events are
typically popular, and this year was no exception. The Mariners Branch hosted “Halloween Hoopla,” a
craft program attracting over 50 participants; at the Balboa Branch, a Halloween Craft-o-Rama was a
spooky success; and at the Corona del Mar Branch, an interactive magic show featuring Illusions by Allen
was enjoyed by 127 participants of all ages.
Branch Personnel
Several part-time library assistant positions were filled in October. Tom Rusconi joined the Mariners
Branch reference staff as a part-time library assistant. Mariners Branch Library Clerk Taylor Stevenson was
promoted to part-time library assistant at the Balboa Branch. At the Corona del Mar Branch, Christina
Miramontes joined the team, also as a part-time library assistant.
Youth Services
Central Library’s “Coding for Kids 101” wrapped in October, with an average of sixteen participants each
week. Coding for Kids continues to be a popular program with many parents expressing gratitude to the
Library for offering this free workshop. Also at the Central Library, Ellery Wilder of Blizzard Entertainment
gave an interactive presentation on how to create video games. Ellery made a unique connection with
parents, answering questions from the audience about what their child should do if they want to get into
video game development. On Halloween, the Central Library hosted its annual Halloween Party with a
spooktacular musical performance by Kids Imagine Nation. Families had a great time dancing and singing
along. In total, 195 participants enjoyed an early Halloween evening complete with crafts, coloring pages,
a photobooth and trick-or-treating around the Library.
72
Report of October Library Activities
November 20, 2023
Page 3
Youth Services Outreach
Youth Services participated in several outreach events including library tours throughout October. On
Sunday, October 1, Children’s Librarian Christine Lefter, Library Assistant Bernadette Gilliam, and part-
time Library Clerk Pam O’Conner attended the annual Orange County Children’s Book Festival at Orange
Coast College. A total of 960 children and adults stopped by the Library’s booth to pick up flyers about
upcoming programs and to spin the prize wheel where kids could win toys, stickers, or library branded
promotional items. Staff also issued approximately 30 library cards throughout the day. Also early in the
month, Newport Coast Elementary School’s second-grade classes visited the Corona del Mar Branch and
Fire Station. The second graders went on tours of the Fire Station and the Library, enjoyed a storytime,
and learned how to use Library databases. Mid-month, the Harbor View Elementary first graders visited
the Central Library, complete with a tour, storytime, and snack enjoyed in the Bamboo Courtyard. Finally,
on Saturday, October 28, Mariners’ Librarian Leah Duffy and part-time Library Assistant Elizabeth Craig
participated in the City’s Halloween Spooktacular at Mariners Park. This free community event, hosted by
Recreation and Senior Services, included music, a trunk-or-treat area, a haunted walkthrough, carnival
games, and more. Over 850 people visited the Library’s table and trunk-or-treat display. The Library
provided games, candy, toys, and information about library services and programming to everyone
interested.
ANDREW KACHATURIAN, CIRCULATION AND TECHNICAL PROCESSING COORDINATOR
Staffing
Raquel Villanueva started as a part-time Library Clerk at the Central Library in October. There are currently
four vacant part-time Library Clerk positions and two Library Page positions. Recruitment is expected in
the month of November.
Facilities
Annual HVAC maintenance was completed at Mariners Branch in October. Contractors were able to
isolate and resolve a noise issue in the higher ceiling and fix some minor leaks. At the Central Library, a
circuit was repaired in the chiller yard as well as several zones throughout the building.
On October 19, the Central Library joined City Hall staff in participation of the California Great Shakeout
Drill to better prepare for earthquake emergency evacuation procedures.
ERIN SPIVEY, ADULT SERVICES COORDINATOR
Collection
Over the course of October, we added 73 individual titles to our adult collection at the request of patrons.
Our InterLibrary Loan program continues to be well-used. In September and October, we borrowed 12
titles for our patrons. We lent over 118 titles to partnering libraries.
73
Report of October Library Activities
November 20, 2023
Page 4
Training
Librarian Laurie Sanders completed “Caring for Collections” course through the Library Juice Academy on
the topic of preservation and caring for fragile items.
Part-time Library Assistant Anne-Marie Angeloff completed the Foundations of Library Science Course
through Infopeople Online Learning. This 6-week course covered a variety of topics including the mission
of libraries, ethics and values, policies, library staff roles and governance. The course centered around
core reading material enhanced by weekly assignments including interviews with current staff members
and patrons, SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat) analysis and sharing experiences online
with fellow students.
Adult Services Coordinator Erin Spivey attended “Library Management: Making Libraries Great Places to
Visit and Great Places to Work” webinar.
Erin additionally held the first Adult Services Department meeting as the new adult services coordinator.
Local History
Librarians Rosemary Hammock and Laurie Sanders have begun evaluating primary sources housed at
Central Library for the Local History collection.
Hiring
New part-time Library Assistant Ariel Shrader completed training and began working at the Central
Library.
Teens
Library Assistant Danielle Yang, focused on Teen Services, hosted a Teen Financial Literacy event with OC
Credit Union. Topics covered included how to budget money, how to save for your first car, and how much
to put away for an emergency fund.
Young Adult Advisory Council (YAAC) held their second meeting of the 2023-24 school year on October
11.Thirteen teens discussed future goals for their committee and created book display ideas. The group
worked together to create “You’ve been Boo’d” bookmarks and treat bags for a teen Halloween passive
program.
Community Support
Library Assistant Greg Johnson assisted a local author who penned an artificial intelligence thriller that is
in our circulating collection and regularly checked out. This patron wrote 90% of his book at NBPL and
recorded 100% of the audiobook for Audible in our Sound Lab. Without heavy marketing, he is about to
hit another milestone: 1000 copies sold.
74
CITY COUNCIL UPDATE
DID YOU
KNOW?
The Newport Beach
Public Library offers so
much more than books!
BY LAUREN KLEIMAN. NEWPORT BEACH CITY
COLINCIL & MELISSA H ARTSON, NEWPOFIT
BE ACH LIBRARY SERVICES DIRECTOR
When my son was little, librarystory time was the denght of
our week. Now that he's older,
we stop by to stock-up on chapter book
mysteries for summer reag and donate
our old favorites for other kids to enjoy.
As a new Council member, I have
spent time familiarizing mysel'P with
the tremendous depth of services
our many city departments offer. The
Newport Beach Public Library is more
than a place to check out books. I have
to admit my own surprise to learn just
how much more.
Our library system is the
cultural heart of our Newport
Beach community-an essential
provider of educational resources,
information, and technology at
four locations: Central, Mariners,
Ealboa, and Corona del Mar. A
place for researching, studyin,g,
meeting friends, enjoying cultural
arts programs, attending lectures,
community meetings, writing
workshops, book clubs, children's
programs, and of course, a great place
for reading.
The Nevrport Beach Public Library
also has some surprising, useful, and
purely fun things available for Newport
Beach residents to check out.
VIRTuALBRANCH
The Library's virtual branch-the
eBranch-is open all day, every day.
This library-within-a-library offers
thousands of eBooks and audio books
that can be downloaded to your home
computer, tablet, or mobile device,
plus streaming video for you to watch
anytiine, anywhere. All that's needed
to access this treasure trove is a valid
NBPL library card.
MEDIA + SOUND LAB
The Library's state-of-the-art computer
lab is a place you can design, edit, and
record. Tucked away on the first level
of the Central Library, the Media +
!R Nnvember 2023
75
DID YOU
KNOW?
The Newport Beach
Public Librai-y offers so
much more than books!
BY LAUREN KLEIMAN. NEWPORT BEACH CITY
COUNCIL & MELISSA HARTSON, NEWPORT
BEACH LIBRARY SERVICES [)IRECTOR
VIRTUAL BRANCH
The Library's virtual branch-the
eBranch-is open all day, every day.
This library-within-a-library offers
thorisands of eBooks and auffio books
that can be downloaded to your home
computer, tablet, or mobile device,
plus streaming video for you to watch
anytime, anywhere. All that's needed
to access this treasure trove is a valid
'l
NBPL library cara.
MEDIA + SOUND LAB
The Librai7's state-of-the-art computer
Jab is a place you can design, edit, and
record. Tucked away on the first level
of the Central Library, the Media +
3tl Nciviimber 2023
Sound Lab has five iMac and nine PC
workstations, complete with Adobe
Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator,
InDesign, Lightroom, Acrobat Pro,
iMovie, Final Cut), AutoCAD, Wacom
Design Tablet, VHS-to-digital
converter, and a photo scanner. Stop
by and get creative!
TECH TOYS
Feeling nostalgic for Super Nintendo?
A turntable to play that vintage
collection of vinyl? Then you're in
luck, because the Library has all that
and then some, available for 7-day
checkout. Our tech toys include
a GoPro, a Wi-Fi mobile hotspot,
digital camera, recording bundle,
and synthesizer.
PARK PASSES
State of California park passes are
available for free check out at all
four Newport Beach Public Library
branches. So go ahead and venture to
the great outdoors - courtesy of your
favorite library.
PASSPORTS
The Newport Beach Public Library is
an authorized United States Passport
Acceptance Facility which means a
convenient way to apply for a new
passport. Book an appointment on
our passport line at (949) 717-3831.
AUTHOR LECTURES
The Newport Beach Public Library
Foundation presents two highly
acclaimed lecture series each year:
Witte and Library Live, complete
with a roster of bestselling novel
lists, poets, historians, journalists,
biographers, and memoirists. The
2023-2024 season includes Lisa See,
Steve Lopez, Michael Scott Moore,
Tess Gunty, Fiona Hill, Ed Yong,
Richard Reeves, and Dahlia Lithwick.
For tickets and information visit
nbplf.foundation.
FRIENDS BOOKSTORE
Founded in 1957 by a small group of
volunteers, the Friends of the Library
donates all its revenue to the Library
to fund various needs and projects.
Your continued patronage of the
Friends Bookstore is vitally important
and greatly appreciated! From
bestsellers to cookbooks, art boolcs,
kid's books, vintage, and other gems,
the Friend's Bookstore is located on
the first floor of the Central Library.
Open Monday through Saturday, 10:30
a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
STORYTELLERS WRITING WORKSHOP
Learn to tell a great story, whether
it's the story of your day, or the story
of your life. Our three-part in-person
writing workshops are offered in the
fall and spring, and focus on developing
stories or memoirs.
CODING FOR KIDS
Learn basic coding principles using
Scratch in our four-part coding
workshops for kids ages 6-11. No
coding experience required. Attend
one session or all four. Location:
Media Lab, first floor of the
Central Library. Children must be
accompanied by an adult. Stay tuned
for upcoming sessions by visiting us
at newportbeachlibrary.org.
SUNDAY MUSICALES
The Newport Beach Public Library
hosts outstanding classical and
instrui'nental mrisic and performers
throughout the yeal. The hour-long
Sunday Musicales are held at 3 p.m.
in the Friends Meeting Room at the
Central Library. Admission is free!
ADULT LITERACY INSTRUCTION
Project Adult Literacy, a Library
program, provides free literacy
instruction to adults who live or work
in the Newport Beach area. Our team
of dedicated voliu'iteers has helped
hundreds of people improve their
literacy skills over the last three decades.
AND TH AT'S NOT ALL!
The Library also offers test proctoring,
guided class visits, college prep
workshops for teens, homebound
services, and a whole lot more.
Stay in the know by signing up for
the latest news and happenings at
newportbeachlibrary.org.
17 Lauren Kleiman, Newport Beach City
Council Member District B
3EI
76
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 7099
Ancestry 976 937 881 451 3245
AskART 55 22 71 17 165
Brainfuse JobNow/VetNow 82 48 43 21 194
Britannica School Edition 23 4 126 613 766
Exploring Race in Society 2 0 14 7 23
Gale Archives Unbound 1977 7446 1971 2410 13804
Gale Directory Library 17 2 0 77 96
Gale in Context: Biography 9 7 21 64 101
Gale in Context: Elementary 10 23 10 30 73
Gale in Context: Environmental ***12 12
Gale in Context: Opposing View 8 1 33 54 96
Gale Interactive: Science ***1 1
Gale Literature Resource Center 8 2 14 53 77
Gale Virtual Reference Library 46 28 12 33 119
HeritageQuest 224 241 140 92 697
Legal Information Ref Center 72 65 25 28 190
National Geographic 24 14 62 38 138
National Geographic Kids 23 13 45 53 134
NewsBank 1292 1211 1634 1190 5327
NoveList Plus 48 84 37 423 592
NoveList K-8 Plus 22 44 22 72 160
ProQuest 2587 2605 2748 3262 11202
Proquest eLibrary 2 4 1 7 14
Reference Solutions Business 1883 614 389 481 3367
Reference Solutions Residential 91 32 34 866 1023
SIRS Discoverer 0 3 15 260 278
SIRS Issues Researcher 192 3 4 675 874
World Book Online 4 8 99 225 336
Tracked by #page views
Artist Works 4 3 3 1 11
Consumer Reports 3496 2508 2216 2099 10319
CultureGrams 26 45 22 224 317
Morningstar 5899 5543 123 **11565
RealQuest 11 0 403 5 419
Tumblebooks 12 24 16 89 141
Value Line 13295 11823 13609 15082 53809
Tracked by courses
LinkedIn Learning 349 190 200 235 974
Tracked by books logged
Beanstack 10374 4111 3584 3762 21831
Tracked by Hours Used
ABC Mouse 27.68 30.40 18.77 20.53 97.38
Beanstack 4603 199 103 153 5058
Rosetta Stone 16.12 47.18 23.15 37.60 124.05
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 1267
Newspapers--Current 656 1022 919 941 885
Newspapers--Historical 1966 3410 1962 2116 2364
Magazines 19 22 12 36 22
Notes:
* Began October 2023
** Data unavailable at this time. Will add when received.77
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 21981 87925
New Users 22806 22634 19381 19876 21174 84697
Sessions 44852 41809 38321 39420 41101 164402
Pageviews 97997 72390 67543 67569 76375 305499
Sessions Per User 2 2 2 2 2 --
Pages Per Session 2 2 2 2 2 --
Avg. Session Dur. (min)3 3 3 3 3 --
Bounce Rate (%)54 58 56 58 56 --
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 240 157 342 257 249 996
CdM 220 242 144 153 190 759
Mariners 1710 1500 1660 1900 1693 6770
Central 11410 12170 12450 11900 11983 47930
Total 13580 14069 14596 14210 14114 56455
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 518 445 401 377 435 1741
CdM 470 449 392 409 430 1720
Mariners 1575 1578 1679 1789 1655 6621
Central 8775 9524 9451 9593 9336 37343
Total 11338 11996 11923 12168 11856 47425
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 41 162
CdM 30 30 26 25 28 111
Mariners 124 125 139 151 135 539
Central 654 661 651 684 663 2650
Total 852 857 856 897 866 3462
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 474 361 874 698 602 2407
CdM 480 552 376 382 448 1790
Mariners 1110 999 1010 1090 1052 4209
Central 1330 1310 1350 1270 1315 5260
Total 3394 3222 3610 3440 3417 13666
78
OCT 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 2,002 9,168 11,455
CdM 4,000 15,579 12,845
MARINERS 22,424 88,604 86,407
CENTRAL 53,439 223,213 235,148
eBooks 7,377 31,437 29,586
eMagazines 6,015 12,414 8,200
eAudiobooks 6,269 25,308 23,900
Streaming Films 1,213 4,857 2,899
TOTAL 102,739 410,580 410,440
NOV 22 93,338
DEC 22 90,480
JAN 23 97,351
FEB 23 89,534
MAR 23 102,817
APR 23 94,662
MAY 23 96,156
JUN 23 98,173
JUL 23 104,890
AUG 23 102,859
SEP 23 100,092
OCT 23 102,739
TOTAL 1,173,091
12 Month Comparison
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - OCTOBER 2023
CIRCULATION
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
eBooks
eMagazines
eAudiobooks
Streaming Films
85,000
90,000
95,000
100,000
105,000
110,000
NOV 22 DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23
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
79
OCT 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 323 1,624 1,495
CdM 520 2,665 2,760
MARINERS 2,193 8,365 7,401
CENTRAL 5,893 26,714 25,793
TOTAL 8,929 39,368 37,449
12 Month Comparison
NOV 22 7,898
DEC 22 7,081
JAN 23 8,577
FEB 23 8,486
MAR 23 10,508
APR 23 8,626
MAY 23 8,917
JUN 23 10,700
JUL 23 10,933
AUG 23 10,069
SEP 23 9,437
OCT 23 8,929
TOTAL 110,161
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - OCTOBER 2023
REFERENCE
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
6,500
7,500
8,500
9,500
10,500
11,500
NOV 22 DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23
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
80
OCT 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 1,907 8,470 8,828
CdM 3,359 12,665 10,271
MARINERS 13,842 49,612 45,038
CENTRAL 37,046 152,420 142,721
TOTAL 56,154 223,167 206,858
12 Month Comparison
NOV 22 44,903
DEC 22 45,996
JAN 23 50,627
FEB 23 50,358
MAR 23 59,398
APR 23 59,010
MAY 23 53,465
JUN 23 52,680
JUL 23 55,882
AUG 23 56,811
SEP 23 54,320
OCT 23 56,154
TOTAL 639,604
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - OCTOBER 2023
PATRONS SERVED
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
40,000
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
NOV 22 DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23
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
81
OCT 23 YTD 23/24 YTD 22/23
BALBOA 194 736 479
CdM 1,239 2,968 2,107
MARINERS 1,459 3,429 3,914
CENTRAL 7,634 26,510 24,268
TOTAL 10,526 33,643 30,768
12 Month Comparison
NOV 22 5,232
DEC 22 4,915
JAN 23 4,244
FEB 23 5,328
MAR 23 6,022
APR 23 6,001
MAY 23 8,113
JUN 23 7,670
JUL 23 9,541
AUG 23 3,725
SEP 23 9,851
OCT 23 10,526
TOTAL 81,168
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY - OCTOBER 2023
BALBOA
CdM
MARINERS
CENTRAL
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
NOV 22 DEC 22 JAN 23 FEB 23 MAR 23 APR 23 MAY 23 JUN 23 JUL 23 AUG 23 SEP 23 OCT 23
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
82
LIBRARY EXPENDITURES FY 2023-24
(November 3, 2023)
ACCOUNT DESCRIPTION
ORIGINAL
APPROP
REVISED
BUDGET
YTD
EXPENDED
MONTHLY
EXPENDED
AVAILABLE
BUDGET
I SALARY & BENEFITS
SALARY FULL-TIME REGULAR 3,156,337 3,156,337 916,893 231,379 2,239,444
SALARY PART-TIME 1,279,860 1,279,860 272,987 71,352 1,006,873
BENEFITS 2,247,901 2,369,508 715,814 181,005 1,653,693
SALARY & BENEFITS TOTAL 6,684,098 6,805,705 1,905,694 483,736 4,900,010
II MAINT & OPERATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE*207,488 207,488 56,324 19,667 151,164
UTILITIES 372,933 372,933 159,835 27,488 213,099
PROGRAMMING 2,000 4,000 2,401 745 1,599
SUPPLIES**82,800 83,146 26,264 4,838 56,882
LIBRARY MATERIALS 669,740 670,487 364,021 65,521 306,466
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE 250,275 260,864 72,332 29,565 188,532
TRAINING AND TRAVEL 10,681 10,681 268 221 10,413
GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES***24,202 25,920 6,708 2,717 19,213
PERIPHERALS & SOFTWARE 5,000 5,000 28 28 4,972
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS 1,693,396 1,693,396 691,025 267,676 1,002,371
OFFICE EQUIPMENT 2,000 2,000 0 0 2,000
MAINT & OPERATION TOTAL 3,320,516 3,335,917 1,379,206 418,467 1,956,711
LIBRARY BUDGET TOTAL 10,004,613 10,141,622 3,284,900 902,203 6,856,722
*PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - INCLUDE OUTSIDE PRINTING, JANITORIAL, WINDOW SERVICE
**INCLUDES OFFICE , PROCESSING AND JANITORIAL SUPPLIES
***INCLUDES, ADVERTISING, DUES, EVENT INSURANCE
83
Previous
Agenda Date AGENDA ITEM Scheduled
Agenda Date
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
Ongoing Ongoing
Dec 19, 2022 Dec 11, 2023
Dec 11, 2023
Jan 17, 2023 Jan 16, 2024
Feb 21, 2023 Feb 20, 2024
Feb 21, 2023 Feb 20, 2024
Mar 20, 2023 Mar 18, 2024
Apr 17, 2023 Apr 15, 2024
Apr 17, 2023 Apr 15, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
May 15, 2023 May 20, 2024
Jun 19, 2023 Jun 17, 2024
Jun 19, 2023 Jun 17, 2024
Jul 17, 2023 Jul 15, 2024
Jul 17, 2023 Jul 15, 2024
Aug 21, 2023 Aug 19, 2024
Aug 21, 2023 Aug 19, 2024
Sep 18, 2023 Sep 16, 2024
Oct 16, 2023 Oct 14, 2024
Oct 16, 2023 Oct 14, 2024
LAST
REVIEWED POLICY REVIEW
Nov 15, 2021 NBPL 15 The Library Lecture Hall Nov 20, 2023
Dec 20, 2021 NBPL 10 Laptop Borrowing Policy Dec 11, 2023
Feb 22, 2022 NBPL 3 Library Gift and Donor Policy Feb 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, 2022 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
Oct 16, 2023 NBPL 2 Collection Development Policy Oct 20, 2025
December 2023 Regular Meeting Rescheduled
Annual Budget - Approval
Youth Services Update
Election of Board of Library Trustees Officers/Trustee Liaisons
Financial Report Comparison of Beginning Budget to End of the Year Amended Budget
Literacy Program Update
Information Technology Update
BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES MONITORING LIST
Lecture Hall Update
Balboa Branch Replacement Update
Annual Budget - Preliminary Review
Branch Update - CDM
Arts & Cultural Update
Newport Beach Public Library eBranch, Database and Downloadable Services Review
Performance Review of Library Services Director (Closed Session)
Policy Review (See List Below)
Review Holidays / Meeting Schedule
Adult and Reference Services Update
Branch Update - Mariners
Branch Update - Balboa
Library Material Selection
Marketing Update & Social Networking Update
Media Lab Update
Proposed Library Closures for Winter Holidays
84
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
November 20, 2023
Agenda Item No. 7
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Board of Library Trustees continue the review of Library Policy NBPL 15, Library
Lecture Hall, to a future date in the next calendar year after the Library Lecture Hall project bid is accepted
and the construction contract is awarded.
DISCUSSION:
Library Policy NBPL 15, Library Lecture Hall, establishes procedures for processing and approving or
disapproving requests from private persons, groups, or organizations for permission to use the proposed
Library Lecture Hall. The policy states priorities for the use of the Lecture Hall to ensure its availability to
Library support groups, the City of Newport Beach (City) and its officers, and employees, and to resolve
any conflict related to requests for use by others. It provides standards and criteria for the use of the
Library Lecture Hall. The policy outlines standard conditions for use of the facility. Procedures for reserving
the room have also been established.
The City received the Library Lecture Hall project bids on October 12, 2023. At the November 14, 2023
City Council meeting, City Council directed staff to move forward with the project and add the bid
acceptance and award of the construction contract to its January 9, 2024 meeting agenda. Staff
recommends the Board of Library Trustees review the Library Lecture Hall policy after City Council has
accepted the project bid and awarded the construction contract.
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: Library Policy NBPL 15, Library Lecture Hall
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: Library Lecture Hall Policy (NBPL 15)
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1
NBPL 15
The Library Lecture Hall
Background
The auditorium at the Newport Beach Central Library is known as the Library Lecture Hall (“LLH”).
The Library Board of Trustees and the Library Services Department administer the Library and the
LLH. The LLH is an important source of meeting space for Library, Library-related, Library-affiliated,
City of Newport Beach (“City”) and outside lectures, programs, and activities. It is not unusual for
Library and City officers and employees to have a need to use the LLH for Library and City business
on short notice. Moreover, use of the LLH takes Library staff away from their normal duties and, if
uncontrolled, can interfere with the public’s use and enjoyment of the Library.
Applicability
Except as otherwise specifically provided to the contrary herein, this Policy shall not apply to First
Priority and Second Priority uses (as defined below) of the LLH as provided below, although the
users of such Priorities are required to complete in advance an Application For Use form for such
uses. So long as they complete and file in advance the Application For Use form, such users shall be
entitled to use the LLH with the permission of and subject to confirming availability with the Library
Services Director. Moreover, it shall be permissible for such users to place an advance hold on
recurring regularly scheduled dates of use by such users, e.g., the first Thursday morning of each
month at 7:30 AM.
Purpose
The purpose of this Policy is to establish:
A.Procedures for processing and approving or disapproving requests from applicable groups
or organizations for permission to use the LLH;
B.Priorities as set forth below for the use of the LLH and to resolve any conflict related to
requests for use; and
C.Standards and criteria for the use of the LLH to insure there is no significant impact on the
workload of staff.
Priorities of Use
The mission of the Library is to be the cultural, educational, and informational heart of Newport
Beach (the “Library Mission”). Subject to the Library Mission, to this Policy, and to all related terms
and conditions, the LLH is available for use as provided herein. The fact that a group or organization
is granted permission to use the LLH in no way constitutes endorsement of the policies or beliefs of
that organization by the Library or the City. Even following an advance reservation pursuant to a
completed Application For Use, NBPL has a right to preempt any event for a Library or Library-
related event; in such rare instances, Library will use its reasonable efforts to assist the group in
reserving another date for use of the LLH. The numerical listing below a particular Priority (e.g.,
ATTACHMENT A
86
2
First Priority) shall indicate the preference or priority within the stated Priority, e.g., First Priority
A.1. shall have preference over First Priority A.2.
A. FIRST PRIORITY
1. The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation (the “Foundation”) and, thereafter, other
NBPL support groups including but not limited to The Friends of the Library and Project
Adult Literacy.
2. Any official Library sponsored, co-sponsored, and/or conducted programs and activities that
are directly related to the Library Mission and the Library’s functions and purposes.
3. Official business of the City of Newport Beach, including, but not limited to, City-sponsored,
co-sponsored, and/or conducted programs
B. SECOND PRIORITY
1. Any meeting or activity of (i) the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, (ii) the Corona Del
Mar Chamber of Commerce, (iii) Speak Up Newport, or (iv) any other local non-profit
organization or entity which organization or entity is based in or around the City and whose
meeting or activity is primarily and substantively designed to educate and inform the local
community on current issues. With respect to subsection (iv), the Director shall have the
discretion to determine whether an organization or entity meets the qualifications set forth
in subsection (iv) and whether a meeting or activity meets the qualifications set forth in
subsection (iv).
2. Any meeting or activity by local non-profit organizations or entities which organizations or
entities are based in or around the City. The Director shall determine whether an
organization or entity qualifies as a local non-profit organization or entity for purposes of
Second Priority status.
C. THIRD PRIORITY
Use of the LLH may be granted by the Library Services Director to those persons, organizations,
or entities listed below on a first come, first serve basis:
1. Sponsored educational or informational programs and activities of state or local public
agencies such as local public schools or public districts.
2. Recreational, social, or civic organizations and/or groups that are promoted and sponsored
by City residents or City non-profit organizations that are open to the public and have fifty
percent (50%) or more of their memberships held by Newport Beach residents.
3. Recreational, social, or civic organizations and/or groups that are non-resident and are
promoted and sponsored by non-profit organizations that are open to the public but do not
qualify under C.2. above.
4. Schools, colleges, hospitals, or other similar groups not qualifying under the definition of
non-profit. Non-profit status is defined as an organization that is so defined by the Internal
Revenue Code Section 501(c) and has a State of California Tax Identification Number.
D. FOURTH PRIORITY
All other outside organizations, municipal agencies, individuals, and groups have Fourth Priority
on all dates, and may reserve events on a first come, first serve basis under the terms,
provisions, and documents required hereunder. All Fourth Priority users shall enter into an
Agreement Regarding Use Of Library Lecture Hall For Outside Events (“Outside Events Contract”) in
form and content as the Director may specify from time to time, which Outside Events Contract shall
include the Rules and Regulations (First Addendum to Outside Events Contract) in form and content
as the Director may specify from time to time.
87
3
Procedure
All persons, groups or entities seeking permission to use the LLH (“applicant”) shall submit an
Application For Use on the form provided by the Department. The applicant shall provide all
information requested in the application and such additional information as may be required by the
Library Services Director to enable the Director to determine if use by the applicant will comply with
this Policy. Applications shall not be considered complete unless accompanied by required fees,
proof of insurance, and any additional requested information to the extent applicable. No person,
group or entity shall be entitled to use of the LLH unless their application has been approved by the
Library Services Director or the Director’s designee. If an applicant fails to comply with the standard
conditions of use or any special conditions imposed by the Director, no additional application by
that applicant shall be considered for a one-year period following such failure.
Standard Conditions of Use Applicable to Third Priority and Fourth Priority Users
These standard conditions of use shall be and are applicable to Third Priority and Fourth Priority
users only; with the exception of standard conditions B, D, and F, the standard conditions are not
applicable to First Priority and Second Priority users; provided, however, other than in the case of
the Foundation, the Director shall have the discretion to impose one or more such other standard
conditions on First Priority and Second Priority users. An Application For Use of the LLH may be
approved subject to the Third Priority User’s and the Fourth Priority User’s compliance with the
following standard conditions of use and other conditions of use as may be imposed by the Library
Services Director:
A. The use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited unless expressly approved in writing by the
Library Services Director and subject to the approval of the Alcoholic Beverage Control
Board.
B. Smoking, vaping of any kind, and other use of tobacco or similar products is prohibited in
the LLH and the entire Library campus, including restrooms and all common areas.
C. At least one (1) adult shall be present in the LLH when minors are in attendance.
D. No person shall interfere with the normal use and activities of the Library by way of noise,
disturbance, or other activity.
E. Meetings or activities conducted in the LLH may not be advertised or promoted as City or
Library sponsored activities unless approved in advance by the Library Services Director. All
materials used for advertising or announcing a meeting or activity to be conducted in the
LLH shall be submitted to the Library Services Director at least ten (10) days prior to the use
for the sole purpose of determining if the materials comply with this condition. The Library
Services Director shall notify the permittee of the Director’s determination that the
materials comply or do not comply with the condition within three business days after
submittal.
F. Attendance for events or activities in the LLH shall not exceed Newport Beach Fire
Department occupancy requirements.
G. Use of the LLH is limited from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays, unless expressly approved in
writing in advance by the Library Services Director.
H. The provision of insurance should be general liability, naming the Library and City and their
officers, agents, officials, employees, and volunteers as additional insureds, providing
88
4
coverage in the amount of not less than $1,000,000 for any claim, loss, injury, damage, or
other casualty that is in any way related to the use and/or occupancy of the LLH by the
permittee authorized to use the LLH pursuant to this Policy.
I. The permittee agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Library and the City and
their officers and employees with respect to any claim, loss, or injury that arises out of, or is
in any way related to permittee’s use and occupancy of the LLH.
J. Applications for reservations must be made no more than 90 days in advance and not more
than once every 90 days.
Fees, Deposits and Cancellation Procedures
Fees may be charged for the use of the LLH. Fees shall be established by Resolution of and
periodically adjusted by the Board of Library Trustees subject to approval of the City Council. Fees
shall include an amount necessary to defray the costs associated with the administration of this
Policy and the maintenance and repair associated with the use of the LLH. Notwithstanding
anything to the contrary herein, the Director may impose fees and other charges on the First
Priority Users and the Second Priority Users; provided, however, in the case of the Foundation, such
fees and other charges shall be agreed upon in advance in writing by the Director and the
Foundation.
Use Subject to Recorded Declaration of Special Land Use Restrictions
Use of the LLH shall at all times be subject to that certain Declaration of Special Land Use
Restrictions, Right of First Refusal, Mortgage Lien and Option to Repurchase recorded May 8, 1992
as Instrument No. 92-304757 in the Official Records of Orange County, California, as modified by
that certain amendment recorded November 24, 2010 as Instrument No. 2010-634195 and as
further amended by that certain amendment (the “Second Amendment”) recorded December 5,
2019 as Instrument No. 2019000509265 (all such recorded documents are referred to collectively as
the “Declaration”). The Second Amendment (which as indicated is a part of the Declaration)
specifically provides as follows:
1.2 Use of the Lecture Hall
Declarant expressly agrees that the use of the Lecture Hall by Grantee [City of Newport Beach, a
California municipal corporation] to conduct library, cultural, training, educational, informational,
entertainment, civic and community focused programming as well as for programming of library
support groups, such as the Friends of Newport Beach Public Library and the Newport Beach Public
Library Foundation (collectively, the “Intended Use”), are uses commonly associated with public
libraries, as described in Section 2.1(a) of the Declaration, and these uses do not compete with the
retail and commercial facilities in the Center [Newport Center]. Grantee may from time to time
allow, and charge reasonable fees for, such uses of the Lecture Hall, and such other uses of the
Lecture Hall that Grantee determines in its reasonable discretion are complementary to the use of
the Land as a free, public library and will not interfere with the use of the Land by Grantee’s library
patrons and available parking for such library patrons; provided such other uses, in Declarant’s
reasonable discretion, do not materially compete with the retail and commercial facilities in and
around the Center, and in no event shall the Lecture Hall be used as a commercial banquet hall or
conference center.
89
5
1.3 Parking
The number of parking spaces on the Land and available for public use is currently 172. Such
number of parking spaces available for public use shall not be reduced without the prior written
consent of Declarant as described in Section 2.2(a) of the Declaration.
Adopted by the Board of Library Trustees on November 15, 2021
Amended by the Board of Library Trustees on December 20, 2021
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 December 20, 2021.
90
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
November 20, 2023
Agenda Item No. 8
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends forming an ad hoc subcommittee to consider amending Library Policy NBPL 2,
Collection Development Policy, or creating a separate Children’s Collection Development Policy, to address
guidelines for Children’s materials selection and bringing its recommendations to the Board of Library
Trustees for approval.
DISCUSSION:
Staff met with Board of Library Trustee Antonella Castro to discuss the need of forming an ad hoc
subcommittee to ascertain whether a specific Children’s Collection Development Policy addressing
guidelines for materials selection is necessary. Children are a distinct subgroup of library patrons,
therefore further discussion of whether Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy should be
amended to address materials selection for this subgroup or if creating a separate Children’s Collection
Development Policy is warranted instead.
The ad hoc subcommittee will bring its recommendations to the Board of Library Trustees for approval to
either amend the existing Collection Development Policy, create a separate Children’s Collection
Development Policy, or leave the existing Collection Development Policy unchanged.
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: Library Policy NBPL 2, Collection Development Policy
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: Consideration for a Children’s Collection Development Policy
91
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 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, who operates
within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board. The Library Services 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
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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 Library Services Director who shall respond in writing to the patron. Once the Library Services
Director has responded, copies of the Patron’s Request for Evaluation of Library Resources and the
response shall be provided to the Board of Library Trustees 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 Library Services Director will be
relocated to another Library location or the Library Services Director may take other actions
pursuant to the Collection Maintenance section in this Policy. Any unresolved concerns shall be
referred to the Board of Library Trustees for final resolution.
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 Library Services 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.
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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]
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
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 October 16, 2023.
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CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
November 20, 2023
Agenda Item No. 9
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees approve the acceptance of a grant from California Library
Literacy Services to support the Newport Beach Public Library’s Project Adult Literacy program.
DISCUSSION:
The Library’s Project Adult Literacy (PAL) offers one-on-one tutoring and small group classes to patrons
with low literacy skills. PAL is partially funded by the City’s general fund and partially funded through
grants and donations. One of the major funding resources is through California Library Literacy Services’
annual grant program. A grant of $46,594 has been awarded to the Library to support our high-quality
literacy program. The grant funds will be used towards staffing for the program. This $46,594 grant
represents California Library Literacy Services’ first award for FY 2023-24.
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees’ acceptance of this grant. If accepted, the funds will be
allocated into Library Services Literacy accounts.
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: Grant Acceptance from California Library Literacy Services
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CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES STAFF REPORT
November 20, 2023
Agenda Item No. 10
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Board of Library Trustees review and approve the acceptance of a wish list request
to the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation.
DISCUSSION:
Through the wish list process, the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation funds valuable library
resources and collections. For Giving Tuesday, the Library has asked the Foundation to fund a new seed
library startup program at the Mariners Branch. Funds raised will go towards purchasing supplies such as
a cabinet to hold the seed packets, labels, and seeds. Staff recommends that the Board approve this wish
list request to the Foundation.
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: Newport Beach Public Library Foundation Wish List for Giving Tuesday 2023
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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: November 15, 2023
Re: Library Foundation Report
1.The Library Foundation fiscal year 2023 audit and IRS Form 990 Public Disclosuredocument are on the Foundation’s website under About/Financial Responsibility. Thereare now three fiscal years of reports on the website as part of the Foundation’sTransparency and Accountability policy.
2.Both Lisa See (October 19) and Steve Lopez (November 9) for Library Live were soldout. Michael Scott Moore (175) and Tess Gunty (150) are also expected to sell out.
a.There are 111 season passes sold for Library Live-61% of the house.”
3.Individual Witte Lecture tickets went on sale October 1. 315 individual tickets have beensold.
a.There are 236 passes sold for the Witte Lecture series—60% of the “house.”
4.The Foundation Spotlight on Science inaugural series of programs opened on November15 with 260 registrations. We anticipate a 20% no-show rate because it is a freeprogram, and not all people on the “wait list” will come, but we will still have over 200
people for this event.
a.Spotlight on Science is a free program for the community although we requirepeople to register. It is with the cooperation of UCI Sciences as Medicine in OurBackyard is in partnership with UCI Health.
5.The Finance Workshops, Medicine in Our Backyard, and Book Discussion Group areseeing an increase in attendance, back to or exceeding pre-pandemic numbers.
6.At the November 13 Medicine in Our Backyard, Dr. Rawls presented research from theSurgeon General that showed that for people over 60 years old, loneliness has a greaterimpact on health than smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Programs by the Foundation and theLibrary that not only present a lecture but actively promote dialogue not only provide
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important information or a cultural component but are important for the health of the older adult community.
7. The December Board Meeting of the Library Foundation will be a Board Holiday Reception.
a. All Board Committees—Executive, Governance, Finance, Development, Witte, Library Live, and Spotlight on Science are active, and the program committees are
already planning for the 2024-2025 season.
4. The launch of the Foundation’s estate giving program for the Elizabeth and John Stahr Legacy Society during National Estate Planning Awareness Week brought focus on
planned giving. This will be continued in the next edition of Bookmark plus in dedicated email marketing throughout 2024.
a. The Foundation has contracted FreeWill to provide free will and estate planning documents to the community on the Foundation website. The free will and estate planning documents that are provided are California approved. FreeWill is utilized by hundreds of nonprofits, large and small, including dozens of library foundations. The FreeWill service is available to any library patron, whether or not they wish to provide an estate gift to the Foundation.
5. Bookmark is scheduled for a November publication date and will focus on the 30th
anniversary of Central Library, the Foundation’s role in advocating for it and funding
25% of its cost and insuring its future with a Legacy Campaign.
6. At the Study Session of the City Council on November 14, the Council held a straw vote to move on with the Library Lecture Hall as designed and not reject the bids. A Council Committee will be appointed at its November 28 meeting to negotiate the third amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding with the Library Foundation that will include an increased financial contributory amount by the public.
a. To iterate, the Hall is a Library building to manage. The Foundation’s role is to be
the facilitator for the community’s philanthropic support of the Hall construction, just as the Foundation’s role in the funding of the Central Library construction
7. The City has changed its focus for NBTV and has alerted the Foundation that it will no longer be broadcasting Medicine in Our Backyard. However, the City Public Affairs Officer, John Pope, has agreed to continue to broadcast Medicine in Our Backyard through the end of the fiscal year. The Foundation will budget video recording, and
possibly live-streaming, of this program for next season and seek a sponsor to underwrite that expense.
8. For Giving Tuesday after Thanksgiving, and Library Giving Day in April, we will solicit support for a new Library project, a Seed Library to be established at the Mariners Branch. The Library is requesting $5,000 for this project.
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