MINUTES OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING

October 17, 2023

ATTENDING:

Members Staff

Ben Baum Bob Isaacs Leah Wagner

Lisa Chen Dr. Marilyn Gonyo (via Zoom) Karen Klapperstuck

Bernadette Yannacci Prena Shah

Anne Corey Jannat Zaanoun Friends of the Library

Jackie D’Angelo Dr. Kelly Roselle (via Zoom) Francine Kitts

The meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:32 p.m. by Ben Baum, President.

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE

It was noted that this meeting was in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 MEETING

The minutes from the September 19, 2023 meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were presented. Anne Corey asked that the date of the Foundation meeting be added to the report from the Foundation.

Bob Isaacs moved that the minutes of the September 19, 2023 meeting be accepted as corrected. Lisa Chen seconded the motion. The minutes were approved.

DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Leah Wagner apprised the Board of the progress in the renovation of the Circulation Desk area. The new walls are up and the electrical inspection is scheduled for later in the week. It has been a pleasure working with the Department of Public Works (DPW) on this project. DPW expects to finish their portion of the work on or ahead of schedule. Leah said that she did not expect to have to close early on Monday, November 6 before the flooring installation begins on Tuesday, November 7. If something changes, Leah will email the Board.

Leah has been working on the budget for 2024. However, the ⅓ mil appropriation will see an increase this year. She is waiting to talk with Township Administration before presenting a draft

budget to the Board of Trustees. The Plan of Service will also be updated to reflect the increase in funding.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Karen Klapperstuck did not have a written report this month.However, she provided updates on the Jewelry Show (November 12) and the Harvest Market (November 21).

Karen asked the Trustees to accept the hiring of two (2) new PT Adult Services Librarians. Jennifer Rojas, Head of Adult Services, selected Rebecca (Becca) Wood and Mia Reiser to fill the 2 open positions.

Marilyn Gonyo made a motion to accept the hiring of R. Wood and M. Reiser. Bob Isaacs seconded the motion. All were in favor.

Karen thanked the Trustees for supporting professional development through the Library budget. She attended the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services (ABOS) Conference and was able to bring Kelly Palombit, Donna Rogers and Christine Sigle as well. All of the staff enjoyed the conference and have new ideas about the way we provide services. The staff of the Outreach department will discuss the ideas and topics covered at the conference and will decide what is feasible and what to work towards in the future.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Leah Wagner presented the financial report. She noted that two budget lines are high - Printing and Supplies. She is keeping an eye on expenditures in both categories. Adjustments may need to be made at the end of the year if expenses exceed the budgeted amounts.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

There were no committee reports.

TOWNSHIP COUNCIL REPORT

Marilyn Gonyo reported that the Mayor is busy with the upcoming election. The most important thing is to exercise your right to vote.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

Francine Kitts reported that this is National Friends of the Library Week, so Friends groups across the country are all celebrating.

The Friends’ Annual Membership Tea with entertainment will be held on Wednesday,October 18 at 1:00 p.m. Over sixty (60) people are registered to attend. The Committee has been working hard to assure that everything runs smoothly.The Friends will be giving five (5) $10 Amazon gift cards as prizes and will have a selection of free books available. The Friends hope that the Trustees will renew their membership in the Friends, or join if not already a member.

Francine reminded the Trustees to visit the lobby and Youth Services to see the Friends of the Library displays that are currently available.

The next major book sale will be held on Friday, December 1 and Saturday, December 2. Donation books are being collected by the mini book sale while the circulation area is undergoing renovation.

MONROE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR

Kelly Roselle reported that the next Board of Education meeting will be on October 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the Monroe Township High School Media Center.

On October 4 the Monroe Township Schools hosted an ESL University. Lynnette Fucci and Emily Mazzoni attended and provided information about the Library to attendees. Kelly commended both Lynnette and Emily for their participation.

Kelly thanked the Library for the hospitality extended to the schools for professional development and learning sessions.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE

Jannat Zaanoun reported that students just took the PSATs. This year was a big change as the test moved to an all-digital format. Students are preparing for the Haunted High School on October 25, where all the clubs participate and have displays and candy. The marking period ends on November 15.

FOUNDATION

The Foundation has a meeting scheduled for October 26, 2023.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Leah Wagner provided a construction update. The Library has received the reimbursement check from the State Construction Bond Grant. The money went back into the Improvement Fund. All of the HVAC and alarm panel work has been completed. The alarm system was inspected on October 17 (the date of the Board meeting).

NEW BUSINESS

Leah Wagner asked that the Board of Trustees approve the engagement of William C. (Bill) Moran as the Board Attorney. Mr. Moran will not attend Board meetings but will act as the Library Board’s attorney of record. He can also look over policies and answer legal questions if any arise.

Marilyn Gonyo made a motion to approve hiring William C. Moran to serve as the attorney of record at a rate of $300/hour for the Library Board of Trustees. Bob Isaacs seconded the motion. All were in favor.

Leah presented the proposed 2024 Library closing dates.

Lisa Chen made a motion to accept the closing dates for 2024. Prena Shah seconded the motion. All were in favor.

Leah explained that additional funds are needed for the purchase of a pick-up truck for Library use. Previously money was earmarked for this purchase. However, the cost has increased since that time.

Whereas the Monroe Township Public Library Board of Trustees has committed to purchase a Ford F250 Super Duty 4X4 pickup truck using $50,000 previously earmarked in 2021 in the Improvement Fund, and the cost of the vehicle has increase $3,997.00, and

Whereas the Monroe Township Public Library Board of Trustees wishes to expend funds currently held in reserve from previous years to cover the increase,

Now, therefore, does the Monroe Township Public Library Board of Trustees agree to the price increase of $3,997.00 for a total vehicle price of $53,997.00.

Marilyn Gonyo made a motion to accept the resolution for the price increase in the truck. Bernadette Yannacci seconded. All were in favor.

ACTION ON BILLS

Prena Shah moved the payment of the October bills with checks #18597 to #18633, in the amount of $580,207.14. Lisa Chen seconded. All Board members were in favor. The motion passed.

OTHER BUSINESS

The Policy Committee will meet before the next Board of Trustees meeting and will bring policies for full Board approval.

The next meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees is scheduled for Tuesday, November 21 at 6:30 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no other business, Bob Isaacs moved to adjourn the meeting. Bernadette Yannacci seconded the motion. The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Klapperstuck

MINUTES OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING

September 19, 2023

ATTENDING:

Members Staff

Ben Baum Bob Isaacs Karen Klapperstuck

Lisa Chen Dr. Marilyn Gonyo (via Zoom)

Bernadette Yannacci Prena Shah Friends of the Library

Anne Corey Jannat Zaanoun Francine Kitts

The meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:32 p.m. by Ben Baum, President.

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE

It was noted that this meeting was in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

MINUTES OF THE JUNE 20, 2023 MEETING

The minutes from the June 20, 2023 meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were presented. Anne Corey noted that there was an incomplete sentence on page 3, paragraph 2. Karen Klapperstuck will correct the minutes to reflect the status of the StayNJ Bill as of the June 20 meeting.

Prena Shah moved that the minutes of the June 20, 2023 meeting be accepted as corrected. Anne Corey seconded the motion. Bob Isaacs abstained from the vote and the remaining Board members in attendance were in favor. The minutes were approved.

DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Assistant Director Karen Klapperstuck highlighted the written report from Director Leah Wagner in her absence. Karen reported on the progress of the Circulation Desk renovation project. The Library is pleased that the Department of Public Works will complete the construction work necessary to move the existing wall and prepare the area for the new furniture and shelving. Construction will begin on October 2 and should be completed by November 6. The week of November 6 is when the new flooring will be installed. The Library is scheduled to be closed on Tuesday, November 7 for Election Day as well as Friday and Saturday, November 10 and 11 in

observance of Veterans Day. Leah would like the Board to close the Library to the public on Wednesday, November 8 and Thursday, November 9 when the flooring will be installed. Library staff will report to work and provide limited services to the public, including materials pick-up in the drive thru in addition to phone reference and assistance. The furniture is scheduled to be installed the following week. All the work should be completed by Thanksgiving.

The Farmers Market was a success in 2023. Ruth Santulli, the Library’s Event Coordinator, did a wonderful job organizing the market and coordinating returning and new vendors. Ruth and the Farmers Market Team are already planning for next year.

In August, Patcy Drake was hired to fill the open Technology Support and Training Specialist position. Patcy started with the Library part-time at the Welcome Desk 12 years ago before becoming a part-time Reference Librarian for the past few years. Jaime Mendelsohn, part-time Reference Librarian, has left the Library. Jennifer Rojas, Adult Services Coordinator, and Karen Klapperstuck are interviewing for the two vacant part-time reference positions.

Tania Schiavone received a title change to Library Administrative Assistant in August. SHe has undertaken the coordination of publicity for the Library and leads the Marketing Team.

Leah and Karen have begun working on the 2024 Budget. The Budget committee will meet early in October and a draft budget will be presented at the October Board meeting.

Leah met with Iris Ivers, the wife of artist George Ivers, to receive a framed set of three UNICEF cards designed by George to be placed in the Library. The display case in the Library lobby is named in honor of George Ivers.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Karen Klapperstuck provided printed updates from Library departments with highlights from the summer and beyond. Of particular note were:

● Youth Services reported that the 759 participants in Summer Reading this year collectively spent 8,364 hours reading.

● The Circulation staff opened over 250 new cards in each month of June, July and August. Many of the new cards were opened on Thursdays during the Farmers Market.

● The Bookmobile added 2 new stops this summer, Monroe Parke and Monroe Place. While lower in attendance, most of the visitors in Monroe Place had never been to the Library and obtained Library cards through the Bookmobile.

● Adult Services continues to add programs, both standalone and recurring, to the Library’s calendar. The Library has hosted 271 programs with 11,745 attending since the start of 2023.

Karen informed the Board that the Library staff will host a new member reception on September 30. The open house style event is intended to welcome those who have recently joined the Library. All of the departments will be represented to provide an overview of all services. Tours will also be given.

Members of the Outreach Department will be attending the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services (ABOS) Conference in early October. The conference is being held in Hershey, PA which makes it possible for 4 people to attend in person.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Karen Klapperstuck discussed that all the financial reports for July, August and September were as expected for this time of year. Later in the meeting, the Board will be asked to approve the adjusted Township Reimbursement payment schedule.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

There were no committee reports except that the Budget Committee will be meeting the first week of October.

TOWNSHIP COUNCIL REPORT

Dr. Marilyn Gonyo shared news and updates from Mayor Dalina:

The Mayor is very busy with his campaign but wanted to thank the Library leadership and staff for another very successful Farmers Market season of events!

As a follow up to the report from June about the StayNJ Act. State Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin held a town hall event last month at the Monroe Township Senior Center to update residents about StayNJ.

The Annual Green Fair event will be held this Saturday, September 23 at the High School, starting at 10:30 a.m.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

Francine Kitts reported that the Friends had a table of books each Thursday at the Farmers Market. They did not charge for books but asked only for donations. The Friends collected $2,352 over the course of the summer at the market.

National Friends of the Library Week is in October and they will be showcasing the Friends with a nice display in the lobby display case. They are also working with Becky in Youth Services to showcase all the American Girl Dolls in the Youth Services display case.

The Friends Annual Membership Tea will be held on Wednesday, October 18 at 1:00 p.m. Vinnie Bruno, a Beatles scholar and storyteller, will be the entertainer. Members of the Friends should have received an invitation.

It is time to renew membership in the Friends. The membership year is September 1 through August 31. The Friends have changed the use of the term “patron” to “benefactor” so as not to be confused with the Cultural Arts Commission. Two new levels of membership have been added - Elite Benefactors and Lifetime Benefactors. Elite Benefactors will receive a tote bag and

five note cards. Lifetime Benefactors will receive the tote bag, note cards and be invited to tea with our Library Director.

The Friends of the Library will have a display table at the New Member Reception on September 30 to encourage new cardholders to join the organization.

MONROE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR

Kelly Roselle was unable to attend the meeting due to scheduling conflicts but sent the following updates for the Board:

● School started on September 6th.

● Schools are currently in the process of hosting Back to School Nights.

● Emily Mazzoni from MTPL has been working with our Middle School Media Specialist to facilitate 6th Grade Media Center orientations during the school day. During these sessions Ms. Pillis introduces our school resources, and Ms. Mazzoni shares the youth and teen resources at MTPL.

● The district media specialists will attend a collaboration meeting with MTPL youth staff on Wednesday, September 20th in the afternoon. The group will discuss joint programs.

● Our next Board of Education Meeting will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, September 20th starting at 6:30 PM in the Monroe Township High School Media Center.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE

Jannat Zaanoun reported that students are getting back into the routine of school. Club rush and the fall sports season has started.

FOUNDATION

The Foundation met on June 26, 2023.

Marilyn Gonyo reported on the plans for the Library’s 35th Anniversary inaugural Golf Outing scheduled for Monday, June 10, 2024. The event will be held at the Greenbriar Golf Course and will include 9 holes plus an upscale, indoor barbecue luncheon and awards ceremony. More details to come but Marilyn asked that as many Board members as possible plan to be at the event because many volunteers will be needed.

Bob Isaacs reported that the Foundation has moved money to receive a better return. Two new CDs were purchased: one for $50,000 for 7 months yielding 4.75% and one for $70,000 for 11 months yielding 5%.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Karen Klapperstuck notified the Board that the construction grant reimbursement will appear on the documents for next month’s meeting.

Anne Corey asked when the 2022 Audit will be available. Karen replied that Jennifer Slavicek, Library Bookkeeper, has sent all of the requested documents. The audit is usually completed mid-Fall.

NEW BUSINESS

Whereas the Monroe Township Public Library’s reimbursement to the Township of Monroe has been increased to $982,213.00 annually to include the salary of the Department of Public Works maintenance staff assigned to the library and,

Whereas the Monroe Township Public Library Board of Trustees wishes to adjust the Township Reimbursement line in the operating budget by $60,691.00 to reflect the increase,

Now, therefore, does the Monroe Township Public Library Board of Trustees agree to increase the Township Reimbursement line by $60,691.00. The 2023 payment schedule is listed below.

$230,380.50 - March

$230,380.50 - June

$275,898.75 - September (Adjustment Payment)

$245,553.25 - December

Bob Isaacs made a motion to pass the above resolution increasing the Township Reimbursement line. Anne Corey seconded the motion. All were in favor.

Karen Klapperstuck asked the Board to approve the closure of the Library to the public on November 8 and November 9 for the installation of the new flooring in the circulation area.

Lisa Chen made a motion to approve closing the Library to the public on Wednesday, November 8 and Thursday, November 9 for the installation of new flooring in the circulation area. Prena Shah seconded the motion. All were in favor.

ACTION ON BILLS

Bernadette Yannacci moved the payment of the July bills with checks #18483 to #18525, in the amount of $467,643.38. Anne Corey seconded. Marilyn Gonyo abstained; all other attending Board members were in favor. The motion passed.

Prena Shah moved the payment of the August bills with checks #18523 to #18559, in the amount of $17,249.86. Anne Corey seconded. Marilyn Gonyo abstained; all other attending Board members were in favor. The motion passed.

Anne Corey moved the payment of the September bills with checks #18560 to #18596, in the amount of $538,501.66. Bernadette Yannacci seconded. Marilyn Gonyo abstained; all other attending Board members were in favor. The motion passed.

OTHER BUSINESS

The next meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees is scheduled for Tuesday, October 17 at 6:30 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no other business, Bob Isaacs moved to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 7:21 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Klapperstuck

MINUTES OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING

June 20, 2023

ATTENDING:

Members Staff

Ben Baum Jackie D’Angelo Leah Wagner

Lisa Chen Dr. Marilyn Gonyo Karen Klapperstuck

Bernadette Yannacci Kelly Roselle

Anne Corey Riya Karnik Friends of the Library

Prena Shah Jannat Zaanoun Francine Kitts

The meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:33 p.m. by Ben Baum, President.

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE

It was noted that this meeting was in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

MINUTES OF THE MAY 16, 2023 MEETING

The minutes from the May 16, 2023 meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were presented.

Marilyn Gonyo moved that the minutes of the May 16, 2023 meeting be accepted as presented. Anne Corey seconded the motion. All were in favor. The minutes were approved.

DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Leah Wagner thanked Riya Karnik for her service as the Student Representative to the Library Board and congratulated her on her graduation. The entire Board wished Riya good luck in the future. Leah also welcomed Jannat Zaanoun, the new Student Representative. Jannat will be starting her Junior year in September and will serve on the Board for the next 2 years.

Leah provided a brief overview of the New Jersey Library Association Conference.

Leah reminded the Board that the Farmers Market will be starting soon!

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Karen Klapperstuck explained the revisions to the Personnel and Procedure manual. Copies of the pages with revisions were in the Board packet.

Karen reminded the Board members to subscribe to the Library’s e-newsletters to keep up with happenings at the Library with the Board not meeting in July and August.

Karen informed the Board that Music Jar Productions LLC filmed scenes in the YA area and in a study room on May 8 for their upcoming movie, Love Lives On.The production crew plans to return to film a classroom scene in the Meeting Room on Sunday, June 25.

Karen notified the Board that the Library has subscribed to Gimlet, a web-based software that allows staff to track patron questions and assistance provided at all points of service. The reports from the service will help us identify trends in the information sought by our visitors as well as high volume times of day.

Karen mentioned that the Library has renewed the subscription to the Library Consortium Speakers Bureau, which is the service that provides the virtual author talks. Last year, the Foundation paid for half of the subscription cost. Due to the success of the service, Leah and Karen feel that the full cost should be part of the Library’s budgeted expenditures.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Leah Wagner discussed the current financial reports. Leah informed the Board that the quarterly Township assessment will be adjusted in September this year because the municipal budget has not yet officially been approved. Leah said that, aside from the quarterly Township payment, all is in order and as expected.

Anne Corey asked if the money for the bond is included in the account status report. Leah said that it is not, as it is included in the Township accounts.

Marilyn Gonyo asked from which budget line are the performers at the Farmers Market being paid. Leah said the support is from the Programs budget line. However, staff are working on a Farmers Market budget line for next year in order to more accurately track market-related expenses.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

The Exhibits Committee met in May. The list of exhibits and displays was provided to the Board.

TOWNSHIP COUNCIL REPORT

Dr. Marilyn Gonyo shared news and updates from Mayor Dalina:

The vote for the Township budget was delayed 1 month (State of NJ was behind in sending review). The Council will vote on the budget on June 26. The public hearing was held on May 31, where only two residents spoke – both in support of approval of the budget.

The Mayor traveled to Trenton to testify before the NJ Assembly’s Aging and Senior Services Committee on Thursday, June 7 in support of Speaker Craig Coughlin’s “StayNJ” plan to give back 50% of local property tax bills up to $10,000 for New Jerseyans over age 65. If passed, the bill would take effect in 2025. During his testimony, Mayor Dalina stated: “As mayor, and previously as a Township Council member, I focus my efforts on affordability, ensuring that all residents of my community can enjoy all that Monroe has to offer, now and for years to come. A substantial reduction in property taxes would help seniors, many of whom are on fixed incomes, stay near their family and friends here in New Jersey.”

This is “game changing” legislation that will certainly benefit those 65 and over but will have a positive effect on the Township as a whole. There will be many benefits to the entire community by having residents receive such tax relief. As of the Board meeting, StayNJ Bill had been transferred to the Assembly Budget Committee.

Mayor Dalina looks forward to seeing everyone at the opening of the Farmer’s Market on Thursday! And don’t forget our 4th of July fireworks extravaganza – Thompson Park (July 4th) !!!

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

Francine Kitts reported that the Friends received lovely thank you notes from all 4 of their scholarship recipients.

The Friends have provided funding for summer programs for teens and youth services and for summer camps.

The Museum Passes Committee reviewed passes and coupons which had expiration dates approaching, analyzing the frequency of use and cost for renewal of each. Eastern State Penitentiary, the Guggenheim, and Monmouth Museum will not be renewed. The Friends will renew the pass for the Morven Museum and Garden and will also purchase 50 coupons for Jenkinson's Aquarium and 50 coupons for Silverball Arcade, which are used extensively, especially during the summer months.

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and the Friends are looking into ways to celebrate. Many thanks to Lisa Chen for her wonderful suggestions.

The Friends will have a weekly table at the Farmer's Market at which we will offer free books, with donations gratefully accepted. This was very popular last year and the Friends hope it will be just as popular this year.

The Friends have partnered with the library to offer a musical program on Sunday, July 13th at 3:00 PM featuring the Raritan Valley Trombone Quartet's presentation of Trombones at the Movies. The program will explore some of the most memorable movie music of all time. This is a wonderful opportunity for families. Registration is required, so please spread the word.

MONROE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR

Kelly Roselle reported that the next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for June 21 at 6:30 p.m. The last day of school and graduation are June 23. The first day of school will be September 6.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE

Riya Karnik said that Senior year has flown by! She thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve, learn about the Library and be involved.

FOUNDATION

The Foundation will meet next on June 26.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Leah Wagner provided a construction update. The work is completed, however, for the first year, maintenance is required to be completed by the electrical engineering firm that installed the units. There has been one small issue so far but it is being addressed. Balancing the equipment is ongoing. The overall project included that 2 HVAC units were replaced, the boiler was replaced, and the fire panel and controls were updated. Paperwork for reimbursement will be submitted as soon as possible.

Leah updated the Board on the next project, the Circulation Desk area. Additional architectural drawings were needed. Arcari & Iovino completed the drawings. The Department of Public Works will do the demolition and move the wall. Leah is hoping the work will begin towards the end of August as there is a 12 week lead time for the furniture. The final schedule is not yet set. This project is moving forward because the Department of Public Works has agreed to do the construction work involved.

NEW BUSINESS

Whereas the Monroe Township Public Library Board of Trustees will not meet in July and August,

Now, therefore, does the Monroe Township Public Library Board of Trustees approve the payment of bills for July 2023 and August 2023.

Lisa Chen made a motion to approve the payment of bills for July 2023 and August 2023. Prena Shah seconded the motion. All were in favor.

ACTION ON BILLS

Anne Corey moved the payment of the bills with checks #18439 - #18482, in the amount of $307,266.50. Jackie D’Angelo seconded. All were in favor. The motion passed.

OTHER BUSINESS

Leah Wagner mentioned that the Township paid for ads in Edible Jersey for the Farmers Market.

The next meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees is scheduled for Tuesday, September 19 at 6:30 p.m.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no other business, Anne Corey moved to adjourn the meeting. Marilyn Gonyo seconded the motion. The meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Klapperstuck

MINUTES OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING

May 16, 2023

ATTENDING:

Members Staff

Ben Baum Robert Isaacs Leah Wagner

Lisa Chen Dr. Marilyn Gonyo Karen Klapperstuck

Bernadette Yannacci Jackie D’Angelo

Anne Corey Riya Karnik Friends of the Library

Francine Kitts

The meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:34 p.m. by Ben Baum, President.

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE

It was noted that this meeting was in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

MINUTES OF THE APRIL 18, 2023 MEETING

The minutes from the April 18, 2023 meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were presented. Two typographical errors were pointed out.

Bob Isaacs moved that the minutes of the April 18, 2023 meeting be accepted with the 2 typographical errors to be corrected. Marilyn Gonyo seconded the motion. All were in favor. The minutes were approved.

DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Leah Wagner provided a construction update. The final inspection of the Construction Bond work has happened. Paperwork will be finalized and submitted for reimbursement. Leah reminded the Board that she applied for this grant in 2020 while the Library was initially closed for COVID!

Leah informed the Board that the Personnel Committee met to discuss premium pay for non-union staff. This will be discussed with the whole Board during New Business.

Leah shared news about the Library having a safety review with Peter Piro and Lt. Jangols from the Monroe Township Police Department. Library staff will meet again with the representatives

from the MTPD to update the Emergency Action Plan and receive training. During a walk through it was discovered that the Library’s panic buttons were not working properly but have now been upgraded and are fully functional.

Leah reminded the Board that the New Jersey Library Association Annual Conference is coming up and that several staff members would be attending. She also mentioned that the Bookmobile and Library staff would be marching in the Memorial Day Parade.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Karen Klapperstuck updated the Board on the progress of the grant received from AARP to implement the Reading2Connect Library Program, which includes a collection of age/dementia friendly books and training for staff and volunteers. Donna Rogers (Outreach Department) and Karen have been trained by Susan at Reading2Connect. Donna is now working to revitalize and update our Spark Kits to include the materials provided by the grant funding.

Karen informed the Board that the previously backordered handheld DLA equipment for the RFID project had been canceled when there was no timeframe for availability. But the Library has now received the last piece of equipment in the original planned RFID project. The funds for this equipment were included in Phase I and Phase II, was approved at the June 2021 Board meeting and an official resolution passed at the September 2021 Board meeting.

Karen shared that Music Jar Productions LLC has filmed scenes for their upcoming movie, Love Lives On. The first day of filming was May 8 and scenes were filmed in the YA area and in one of the study rooms. The production crew plans to return to film a classroom scene in the Meeting Room late in June. They have also asked about filming outside. Lenny Gatto (owner, director and producer) is a resident of Monroe and has been thrilled to work with the Library.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Leah Wagner discussed the current financial reports. Leah said that all is in order and as expected.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

There were no committee reports.

TOWNSHIP COUNCIL REPORT

Dr. Marilyn Gonyo shared news and updates from Mayor Dalina:

Mayor Dalina presented the budget at the Council meeting on May 1. It will be voted on at the May 31 meeting.

The municipal tax rate will be flat at $.489 per $100 assessed value, the same rate as 2022.

This would be the third consecutive year without an increase to the municipal tax rate and continues the Mayor’s focus on affordability, property tax relief, and ensuring Monroe remains the second lowest overall effective tax rate in Middlesex County for the coming year.

A public hearing is set for May 31. As part of the new spending plan, residential water and sewer rates will remain flat and continue to be among the lowest in the entire region.

The Mayor was happy to hold his latest Mayors Wellness event, Chair Yoga, this past Monday at the Library. There was a great turnout.

The Monroe Township Memorial Day ceremony will be held at Veterans Park (on Ave K) at 9:30 a.m.

The Mayor is looking forward to the Farmers Market next month in the Library lot.

Michael Markel was appointed to fill the Ward 1 unexpired term left vacant with the passing of Councilwoman Schneider.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

Francine Kitts reported on the Friends of the Library. The International Film Discussion will return soon. Alberta Mandelblatt will now co-chair with Miriam Monterro.

The Friends are hosting a program tomorrow (May 17) with Fran Gunther, whose artwork is on display in the Library gallery.

The FOL semi-annual book sale will be this coming Friday and Saturday, May 19-20, during normal library hours. This time around the Friends will also feature pre-loved jewelry and evening bags. Everything will be very reasonably priced. The event is called Books, Bags, & Bling. The Friends hope to see many of the Board members in attendance!

Francine shared a photo with the Board of a young Library patron posing with the newest American Girl doll, Kavi. The mom shared with the Youth Services staff how much they appreciated being able to borrow the doll from the Library!

MONROE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR

Dr. Kelly Roselle was not in attendance and did not have a report to share.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE

Riya Karnik reported that AP testing season is finally finished and students are preparing to come to the end of the school year, with 6/23 being the final day of school.

Riya informed the Board that numerous events and awards receptions are scheduled. She invited the Board to attend the Science Expo on May 25 between 5:30-7:00 p.m. to see what the students are working on. The Senior Awards ceremony is scheduled for next week.

FOUNDATION

There was no report from the Foundation. The Foundation will meet next on June 6.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Leah Wagner provided the construction update during her Director’s Report earlier in the meeting.

NEW BUSINESS

Leah Wagner shared with the Board the discussion of the Personnel Committee regarding premium pay (Sundays) for non-union staff. Leah provided the background information about the current pay stipend for non-union, professional staff and how it has not kept pace with the increases that other union staff have seen in recent years.

Bob Isaacs made a motion that as of July 1, 2023 a $23/hour pay differential be added to non-union staff base hourly wage for hours worked on Sundays. Bernadette Yannacci seconded the motion. All were in favor.

Anne Corey suggested that the Personnel Manual be updated to reflect the approved changes.

ACTION ON BILLS

Bernadette Yannacci moved the payment of the bills with checks #18400 - #18438, in the amount of $494,600.00. Lisa Chen seconded. All were in favor. The motion passed.

OTHER BUSINESS

Leah asked that the Library Board go into closed session to approve the minutes from the April 18 closed session.

Bob Isaacs moved that the Board go into closed session at 7:24 p.m. Jackie D’Angelo seconded the motion.

The Board members returned to open session at 7:26 p.m.

The next meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees is scheduled for Tuesday, June 20 at 6:30 p.m. The Exhibits Committee will meet after the Board meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no other business, Bob Isaacs moved to adjourn the meeting.The meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Klapperstuck

MINUTES OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING

April 18, 2023

ATTENDING:

Members Staff

Ben Baum Robert Isaacs Leah Wagner

Lisa Chen Dr. Marilyn Gonyo (virtual) Karen Klapperstuck

Bernadette Yannacci Riya Karnik

Anne Corey Prena Shah Friends of the Library

Jackie D’Angelo Francine Kitts

The meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:31 p.m. by Ben Baum, President.

MINUTES OF THE MONROE TOWNSHIP

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING

March 21, 2023

ATTENDING:

Members Staff

Ben Baum (virtual) Robert Isaacs (virtual) Leah Wagner

Lisa Chen Dr. Marilyn Gonyo (virtual) Karen Klapperstuck

Bernadette Yannacci Riya Karnik Friends of the Library

Anne Corey Francine Kitts

The meeting of the Monroe Township Library Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:42 p.m. by Ben Baum, President.