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The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by President Jeanne Duffany. Board members present were Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, Sue Gydesen and Kay Monnat. Staff present: Eileen Mathys. Excused: Chris Lashbrooks and Rhonda Mow.
Minutes of the November 7th meeting were approved as read.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated January 9, 2023 provided by the treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Librarian Report
On December 2nd we received notification that we have been awarded the Façade and Streetscape Improvement Grant for the library mural project.
We have met our goal of 500 pounds of recyclable plastic. Beaver River Central School will be the recipient of our earned bench. It will be used for a planned outdoor story walk.
Adult Crafty night has been very popular. A knit program for one month’s craft and valentine craft for the tween group is planned.
Eileen announced that two hours of trustee training needs to be completed annually. “Coffee with a Consultant” sessions are being offered soon. These Zoom sessions will be hosted by NCLS consultants.
Eileen gave notice to NCLS that we are willing to participate in their recycling event. They would bring the delivery van here and load books on the day of the forthcoming event somewhere between April 22nd and September.
A writers’ group is starting on January 25th to be held the 4th Wednesday of each month. This will be facilitated by the same person who runs our book club.
Cornell Cooperative Extension is sponsoring “local Food to You” cooking demonstration and workshop on February 21st from 6 7:00 pm.
President Report
The Village of Croghan board will be approached with a request for a $1500 line item to be considered in the 2023-2024 budget for the following:
Masonry repair to the deteriorating façade of the “deck”. Work to be completed by Ken Good.
Contribution to the 25% cost of the mural project, 75% of which will be covered by the Streetscape and Façade grant already approved. Local artist Doug Hoch is scheduled to complete this project.
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At 4:40 p.m. a motion was made by Sue, seconded by Elaine with all in favor to enter Executive Session to discuss staff salaries. At 4:55 p.m. Executive Session adjourned on a motion by Kay, seconded by Elaine with all in favor.
Open session resumed. As a result of the session, change in the Director’s salary and Library Aide salary was unanimously agreed upon.
Our next meeting is February 6, 2023.
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 4:58 p.m. on a motion by Kay, seconded by Elaine with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
Minutes of November 7, 2022
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by President Jeanne Duffany. Board members present were Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, Rhonda Mow and Kay Monnat. Staff present: Eileen Mathys. Excused: Chris Lashbrooks and Sue Gydesen.
Minutes of the October 3rd meeting were approved as read.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated November 7, 2022 provided by the treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Librarian Report
The board agreed with Eileen’s proposal to offer our un-used computer to another library for a small cost.
Michelle Martin from Augustinian Academy will host another sign-up event for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library on December 2nd from 1 to 3.
Our museum passes update is as follows: One zoo pass has gone out since report of October 3rd.
Eileen would like to revisit days off for 2023; that is, to be closed less and open more. The proposed days off are May 29, September 4, November 24, December 25.
Crafternoons saw 18 kids for the Origami event.
November events will see our new adult craft event. It will be the first of three planned.
Christmas Card Drive in conjunction with NCLS is upcoming from November 21st to the 30th.
Loren Boliver has completed the exterior work on the library. Nathaniel Good said his exterior will be done in the spring.
Round 2 of funding for the Façade & Streetscape Improvement requires two estimates which are now in process. Doug Hoch of Croghan and Alicia Wilson of Pulaski will be submitting their proposals and sketches.
Connie Nofstier said she will conduct a class on plants in the spring.
President Report
Property Tax form needs to be filled out by the end of the year. Completing this is contingent on us going out on the school ballot for next year. After discussion, the board agreed not to go out for a referendum to the school ballot for an additional $5,000.
Doug Hoch gave a quote of $7,500 for the mural project.
At this time, we do not know the status of the ASE grant.
Liability Insurance status: A quote was received from Eastern Shore Associates Insurance for a Special Multi-Peril Policy for yearly cost of $1,062. A quote was received from Foy Insurance Agency for $946.13. After discussion a motion was made by Rhonda, seconded by Kay to purchase the insurance policy from Foy Agency. All were in favor.
Our next meeting is January 9, 2023.
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 4:40 p.m. on a motion by Kay, seconded by Elaine with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
Minutes of October 3, 2022
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by President Jeanne Duffany. Board members present were, Sue Gydesen, Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, Chris Lashbrooks, Rhonda Mow and Kay Monnat. Staff present: Eileen Mathys.
Minutes of the September 12th meeting were approved as read.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated October 3, 2022 provided by the treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Librarian Report
Thank you letters were signed by the board to be sent to Legislators Lisa Virkler, Andrea Moroughan and Ian Gilbert. Their support by keeping us in their upcoming budget for this year is appreciated.
Michelle Martin from Augustinian Academy hosted a sign-up event for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library on September 30th. She had six adults with a total of nine children sign up and two who requested information be mailed to them, as they were unable to attend.
Our museum passes update is as follows: The zoo pass has gone out one more time. Wild Center two more times, and Adirondack Experience on Blue Mountain Lake has gone out three times.
Round 2 of funding for the Façade & Streetscape Improvement requires two estimates which are now in process. Doug Hoch of Croghan and Alicia Wilson of Pulaski will be submitting their proposals and sketches.
The Croghan village board has agreed to the mural project on condition that they approve the artwork being used. Eileen will be attending the village board meeting on October 12th to get the board’s approval on the sketches.
Property Tax form needs to be filled out by the end of the year. Completing this is contingent on us going out on the school ballot for next year.
The board approved days off for 2023 as follows: January 16, February 20, May 29, September 4, October 9, November 24 and December 25.
President Report
Jeanne discussed the Sugar Maple Solar Project Grant which would provide $8,000 to our rural library. She has submitted a proposal which essentially prioritizes updating and reconfiguring our computer area. Any leftover monies would be earmarked for matching funds for a Lewis County Small Town Revival Streetscape Grant, which would be used for our proposed mural on the side of the building. The proposal document is on file. The library board discussed our “wish list” for the computer center.
Thus far, Loren Boliver has submitted an estimate of $3,875 to remove the exterior door on the north and another on the back/side entrance. Loren will divide the estimate up between wants (library) and needs (village responsibility), and the needs estimate will be presented to village for consideration in their budget.
Eileen will be attending a class to learn of the availability of St. Lawrence Council of the Arts grant.
A motion was made by Chris, seconded by Elaine to set aside $100 for books in memory of Eileen’s father. All were in favor.
Liz reported on the findings for liability insurance. A quote was received from Eastern Shore Associates Insurance for a Special Multi-Peril Policy. A low estimate of $125,000 for contents owned by the library came to yearly cost $1,062. Eileen offered a more accurate figure of $300,000 for content which came to a yearly cost of $1,677 for the policy. The Eastern Shore quote is on file.
It was suggested that we shop for a quote from a local agent. Having a representative from Foy Agency explain the coverage to the board would be helpful. Also, Eileen will be checking with other libraries on how and if they handle possible liability issues; i.e. insurance vs. no insurance.
Our next meeting is November 7th.
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 4:55 p.m. on a motion by Chris, seconded by Sue with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 3:55 p.m. by Vice President Sue Gydesen. Board members present were, Jeanne Duffany (arrived a few minutes late) Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, Chris Lashbrooks, Rhonda Mow and Kay Monnat. Staff present: Eileen Mathys.
Minutes of the August 1st meeting were approved as read.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated September 12, 2022 provided by the treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Librarian Report
The next Lewis County Library meeting is on September 14th.
Our museum passes update is as follows: The zoo pass has gone out one more time. Wild Center three more times, and Adirondack Experience on Blue Mountain Lake had no requests.
Our Storywalk exhibit was removed the day after Labor Day. We hope to use the same location at the village park next year.
Michelle Martin from Augustinian Academy will host a sign-up event for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library on September 30th from 11:00 to 2:00.
Evaluation of our computer needs has been updated. All of our computers do not have the ability to upgrade to Windows 11. When we do upgrade our computers, Eileen would like to consider having only two patron computers and utilizing IPads in addition to the two patron computers.
Round 2 of funding for the Façade & Streetscape Improvement Program is open for applications, due by November 4th. Eileen will discuss the program with the village board. To be eligible the plan would need to improve the esthetics in the village and be located in a downtown area of the village. A mural would be a qualifying improvement project for the side of our building. The program is 75/25 matching funds for enhancement of our building, if we are selected. The board agreed to pursue this opportunity.
Liz has attempted to obtain a lability quote from Eastern Shore Insurance Agency for board protection from possible law suits. Liz will continue to reach out to the agent for an answer.
Our next meeting is October 3rd.
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 4:25 p.m. on a motion by Sue, seconded by Elaine with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
Minutes of August 1, 2022
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by President Jeanne Duffany. Board members present were Sue Gydesen, Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, Chris Lashbrooks, and Rhonda Mow. Excused; Kay Monnat. Staff present: Eileen Mathys.
Minutes of the June 6th meeting were approved as read.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated August 1, 2022 provided by the treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Librarian Report
Lewis County libraries met via zoom on 7/29. We will be asking for $40,000 in order to maintain current level of funding for county libraries.
Our book recycling has been moved to the NCLS headquarters and is now in operation.
Our passes are increasing in popularity. As of this date, the zoo pass has gone out five times, Wild Center one time, and Adirondack Experience on Blue Mountain Lake three times.
Our Storywalk exhibit is very popular. Two more books will be placed until Labor Day, at which time the exhibit will be removed.
After discussion, a motion was made by Sue, seconded by Rhonda, to forgive fines and all other fees on patron accounts that are older than 2019. All were in favor.
Eileen attended a website 101 class. The class talked about items that we need to have on our website in order to be compliant. We are missing the following documents: Plan of service, some public facing policies, annual budget, board meeting dates, board meeting minutes and associated documents, bylaws, long range plan and our report to the community. Jeanne and Eileen, will review our existing files.
Village vs. library liability polices were discussed. Liz will follow up by obtaining a quote from Eastern Shore Insurance Agency for board protection from possible law suits.
Our next meeting is September 12th.
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 5.00 p.m. on a motion by Chris, seconded by Elaine with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by
Vice President Sue Gydesen. Board members present were Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, Chris
Lashbrooks, Kay Monnat, and Rhonda Mow. Excused; Jeanne Duffany. Staff present: Eileen
Mathys.
Minutes of the May 2 nd meeting were approved as read.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated June 6, 2022 provided by the treasurer.
The report was accepted as read.
Librarian Report
Kerrigan Mahoney has accepted our Pratt Northam position and has started her position.
Eileen presented the idea of having a dog reading program in the library. Before anything firm
is established for this program, we will be checking into the liability issue.
Lewis County Fair organizers are asking for library people to walk in the parade, or sit at the
library booth at select times.
The Story Walk signs have been ordered. Eileen will present information and request
permission from the village board to place them in strategic locations in the village. Most likely
the best spot will be at the village park.
The ads for our museum passes generated a lot of traffic on Facebook. One pass for Blue
Mountain Lake was given out to a patron. The Thompson Park Zoo offers a pass that allows
free admission for two adults and four children for $300. After discussion, the board agreed to
purchase such pass on a motion by Sue, seconded by Chris with all in favor.
Eileen reported that we are currently in the top 15% of audiobook lenders in the system and are
in the top 20% of eBook lenders in the system.
Good news that our school district voted to pass the library’s proposition to receive funds
through the school tax process.
Josh Fitzgerald from Lake Effect Tech recently donated an iPad to one of our library patrons.
Eileen had contacted him in search of a low-cost refurbished model for the patron. He
generously provided the patron with the iPad.
Our next meeting is August 1 st .
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 4.45 pm on a motion by Chris, seconded by Sue with all in
favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
Minutes of May 2, 2022
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by
President Jeanne Duffany. Board members present were Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, , Sue
Gydesen, Kay Monnat and Rhonda Mow. Chris Lashbrooks excused. Staff present: Eileen
Mathys.
Minutes of the April 4 th meeting were approved as read.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated May 2, 2022 provided by the treasurer.
The report was accepted as read.
Librarian Report
The April 12 th movie matinee had 10 in attendance.
Cornell Cooperative extension will give a container gardening class on June 3 rd at 2:00 p.m.
Kerrigan Mahoney has been offered our Pratt Northam worker for the summer. Kerrigan’s
application was the only one received.
The Story Walk activity was discussed. Commercial stands for the book pages seem to be
costly. We will pursue checking with local carpenters for possibilities.
We have 67 pounds of plastic bags with 90 days left in this program to acquire 500 pounds.
We agreed to donate our bags to other libraries to add to their collection.
Connie Noftsier has confirmed the fall for a gardening presentation.
First Amendment Policy was discussed. We have been provided with samples to review and
add to our records. The Library Audit Lawyer may pay a visit and video tape the room.
Food Truck organization requires liability insurance to join the day at the park. Eileen has
checked with our insurance agent. The policy is way too expensive. Not being a food vendor,
the board agreed not to participate in the event.
President Report
Jeanne spoke of the upcoming school vote on May 17 th . A flier has been developed and will be
put on Facebook as a sponsored ad. The flier states that the cost to a taxpayer is the price of a
cheese pizza.
Our next meeting is June 6 th .
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 5.15 pm on a motion by Sue, seconded by Elaine with all in
favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
Minutes of April 4, 2022 Annual Meeting
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by
President Jeanne Duffany. Board members present were Liz Jones, Elaine Marolf, Chris
Lashbrooks, Sue Gydesen and Rhonda Mow. Kay Monnat excused. Staff present: Eileen
Mathys.
Minutes of the March 7 th meeting were approved as read.
A motion was made by Chris, seconded by Liz to appoint Elaine Marolf as Treasurer of
the Croghan Free Library for fiscal year 2022. All were in favor.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated April 4, 2022 provided by the
treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Treasurer Elaine reviewed the 2022 budget with the board. After discussion, there was a
motion by Liz, seconded by Rhonda to adopt the budget as presented. All were in favor.
President Jeanne asked for nominations for library officers for the coming year. With no
nominations forthcoming, a motion was made by Chris Lashbrooks, seconded by Sue Gydesen to
approve the present slate of officers as follows: President Jeanne Duffany, Vice President Sue
Gydesen, and Secretary Liz Jones. The motion passed unanimously.
Librarian Report
April 3 – 9 is National Library Week. Our library will feature “Book Giveaway” Patrons can
shop our book sale room from April 1 st through the 8 th .
The “Get Lit” commercial on Channel 50 has been aired, with Eileen as guest feature
representing our library.
The American flag on the front lawn was replaced by Boy Scout Troop 162. The task was
performed with dignity and respect.
Our library will be open on the dates of the Croghan Street Fair; June 23, July 28, and August
25.
Food Truck Friday event will take place at the village park on July 29 th . Our library is
encouraged to attend and provide children’s activities.
We will begin advertising on Facebook for our Pratt Northam worker.
President Report
Programming was discussed. Connie Noftsier and Cooperative Extension deemed best to
present their information in late summer or fall.
There was a suggestion to place a book mark flyer in all borrowed books to advertise upcoming
library events.
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Rhonda will reach out to the Watertown Zoo for information on programs that they may offer.
Eileen suggested inviting an officer of Carthage Savings and Loan to present fiscal issues of
concern to citizens.
The Nelson Brothers will be asked to perform on August 9 th at the village park.
Jeanne encouraged the board to be ready to answer residents’ questions with positivity
regarding the school ballot
Our next meeting is May 2 nd
Today’s meeting was adjourned at 5.10 pm on a motion by Sue, seconded by Chris with all in
favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
Croghan Free Library
Minutes of March 7, 2022
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by
Vice President Sue Gydesen. Board members present were Liz Jones, Kay Monnat, Elaine
Marolf, Chris Lashbrooks and Rhonda Mow. Jeanne Duffany excused. Staff present: Eileen
Mathys.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated March 7, 2022 provided by the
treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Minutes of the February 7 th meeting were approved as read.
Librarian Report
A letter from Superintendent Todd Green announced that our request for proposition to be
submitted to the voters of the Beaver River Central School District budget for May 17, 2022
election has been granted.
Eileen’s request for purchase of a hand-held scanner for the cost of $150 was approved by the
board on a motion by Chris seconded by Elaine with all in favor.
We have been approved for a summer position through the Pratt Northam Foundation. This will
be a 200-hour position for an “Assistant Summer Reading Coordinator”. This year’s theme is
Oceans of Possibilities.
After discussion a motion was made my Rhonda, seconded by Sue to add Defense of Intellectual
Freedom Statement to our Collection Development Policy. All were in favor. Text in part; the
North country Library System stands firmly opposed to the restriction, removal, and/or
censorship of books and other library materials in an attempt to limit the freedom to read or
obstruct intellectual freedom.
Form for material reconsideration is located in the policy handbook for easy access.
The results of a recent survey shows that most are satisfied with the current hours of operation.
Eileen reported that our movie license is up for renewal in June. This license will include
outdoor showings. Chris motioned to renew the license with a second by Elaine. All were in
favor. The approximate cost is $400.
Discussion was held regarding programing for spring. It was a suggested to ask Connie Noftsier
if she would deliver a presentation on gardening practices.
The practice of quarantining books will be discontinued.
Movie Time at the library will be held April 12 th from 2:00 to 4:00.
Our next meeting is April 4th at 4:00. Today’s meeting was adjourned at 4.45 pm on a
motion by Chris, seconded by Rhonda with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Jones, Secretary
The meeting of the Croghan Free Library Board of Directors was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by President
Jeanne Duffany. Board members present were Liz Jones, Sue Gydesen, Kay Monnat, Elaine Marolf and
Chris Lashbrooks and Rhonda Mow. Staff present: Eileen Mathys.
The board reviewed the receipts and expenditures dated December 31, 2021and February 7, 2022
provided by the treasurer. The report was accepted as read.
Minutes of the December 6 th meeting were approved as read.
Librarian Report
Katie Zehr, director of the Castorland Library, is seeking donations for a fund-raising auction for local
animal shelters. After discussion the library board agreed that, as a public library, it would not be
appropriate for us to contribute.
We are currently signed up for the Trex bag recycling program. We have six months to gather 500
pounds with start date of January 2022. If a goal is met, our library group will receive a Trex bench.
Story Walk program. Talking is Teaching is the 3-year project being funded by the NYS Family Literacy
Grant. The board discussed location options for the event.
Discussion was held concerning the book sale room. There has been a suggestion by the village historian
to use the room as a place for village historical articles. Several ideas were offered by the board to weed
the stock, including holding a large book sale four times a year; displaying a selection of free books;
making space in the entryway for sale of hard-cover books; and possible configuration of the book room
for library creative space.
President Report
Jeanne opened discussion on updating our Covid protocol. The board agreed to go with the policy of
requesting mask wearing if unvaccinated. The returned books will still be in quarantine for a few days.
The library book club will be given permission to meet at the library on Wednesday evenings.
President Jeanne Duffany offered Croghan Free Library Board of Trustees RESOLUTION,
In part
RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees of the Croghan Free Library voted and approved to exceed the tax
levy limit for 2022 by at least the sixty percent of the board of trustees required by state law on February
7 th , 2022. Certified by Elizabeth Jones, Secretary.
Vote 7 in favor; 0 opposed, 0 abstentions. Entire text is attached.
Our library will again purchase a membership with “The Wild Center” at Tupper Lake in order to offer
patrons a discounted pass to the center. There had been no response last year to this offer. More robust
advertising is necessary
At 5:00 p.m. a motion was made by Elaine, seconded by Rhonda with all in favor to enter Executive
Session to discuss staff salaries. At 5:40 p.m. Executive Session adjourned on a motion by Chris,
seconded by Elaine with all in favor.
Open session resumed. As a result of the session, change in the Director’s salary was
unanimously agreed upon.
Our next meeting is March 7th at 4:00. Today’s meeting was adjourned at 5.40 pm on a motion by
Elaine, seconded by Chris with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth Jones, Secretary