Lodi Public Library Board of Trustees
Regular MeetingLodi, NJ · November 13, 2023
Minutes
LODI PUBLIC LIBRARY Minutes
Date: November 13, 2023
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Closed Session: 5:00 pm
Regular meeting: 5:30 pm
Lodi Public Library
201 West Locust Street, Lodi, CA. 95240
For information regarding this Agenda please contact:
Akiliah Manuel
Library Director
Telephone: (209) 333-5540
Notice Regarding Public Comments
Public Comment may be submitted in the following ways:
• In-person – The Lodi Public Library is open to the public in accordance with CDPH and CalOSHA
guidelines.
• Email amanuel@lodi.gov
➢ Received no later than two hours prior to the meeting
• Mail – Lodi Public Library 201 W. Locust Street Lodi, CA. 95240
• Hand delivered to: Lodi Public Library 201 W. Locust Street, Lodi, CA. 95240
➢ Received no later than two hours prior to the meeting
A. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL: 5:39 p.m.
Trustees Present: Caitlin Casey, Frankie Kooger, Brian Campbell, Eve Melton and Nick Dalebout.
Also Present: Director Akiliah Manuel, Friends president Kathryn Siddle, library staff Yvette Herrera, and Jazmin Duffy.
B. INTRODUCTIONS
C. Announcement of Closed Session - Public Employee Performance Evaluation – Title: Library Director –
Conference with City Attorney regarding annual performance review of Library Director Pursuant to
Government Code § 54957.
No reportable action, discussion only.
NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WILL COMMENCE NO SOONER THAN 5:30 P.M.
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Trustee Kooger motioned, Trustee Campbell seconds. Motion Carries.
E. COMMENTS BY THE PUBLIC, LIBRARY BOARD, AND STAFF (NON-AGENDA ITEMS)
If you wish to address the Library Board, please refer to the Notice at the beginning of this agenda. Individuals are limited to
one appearance during this section of the Agenda. (The time allowed per person per non-agenda item for comments made
by the public is limited to five minutes.)
None
F. REPORTS
F-1 Library Director Report
Building & Technology:
• No updates to report.
Staff & Volunteers:
• Elyse, the former librarian, resigned on September 27, 2023. In response, the library is organizing a promotional
interview for the position of Librarian I to effectively fill the vacancy.
Continuing Education & Meetings:
• Jazmin enrolled in the Preserve This class, demonstrating an interest in contributing to the locked case collection,
with a specific focus on the preservation of photographic materials.
• Director Manuel showcased her extensive involvement, presenting at the Urban Library conference on the East
Coast through Zoom, and delivering a presentation at the Riverside County annual all-staff event. Furthermore, the
director has achieved certification as a qualified administrator for the intercultural development inventory.
Collections & Materials
CATEGORY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
J NON-FIC 65 69 74
J FIC 139 94 121
AUDIO CD 19 0 0
TEEN NON-
FIC 5 0 0
TEEN FIC 38 0 0
DVD 41 0 0
ADULT NON-
FIC 60 0 0
ADULT FIC 140 0 0
TEEN
GRAPHIC
NOVEL 30 0 0
BIO 1 0 0
LP 62 0 0
Adult Graphic
Novel Fic 18 0 0
Adult GN
Nonfic 5 0 0
Decshelf 30 0 0
Link + Books
Loaned 217 187 201
Link+ Request
Filled 166 136 116
Finance:
• There are no financial updates to report.
Programming & Outreach:
Outreach:
• Director Manuel expressed gratitude to Trustee Caitlin Casey for attending the Festival de Familia, extending
appreciation to Trustee Nick Dalebout for generously donating the grand prize. The library collaborated with Family for
Farmworkers and Councilman Ramon Yepez from District 4, resulting in a successful event attended by approximately
314 individuals. Yvette Herrera facilitated program promotions in Spanish, while the Teen Advisory Board actively
participated in game booths and distributed books provided by the Friends of the Library.
• The Raising a Reader program was promoted at Reese Elementary.
Programs:
September Number of Staff/Volunteers Total Attendance
Programs Sessions
Storytime Toddler 4 1 staff 162
Storytime Preschool 4 1 staff 209
Quick Reads Book
club 1 1 Staff 3
Anime club 1 1 staff 7
Stichin at your library 1 1v 12
Car Painting 1 2 staff 68
Big Kid Storytime 1 1 staff 8
Cozy Reading 3 13
CLC classes 14 4v 42
Stichin at your library 4 1v 27
Chess 2v 62
HH 1s/2v 44
Operation Discovery 4 5v 57
October Programs Number of Staff/Volunteers Total Attendance
Sessions
Storytime Toddler 3 1s 70
Storytime Preschool 3 2 staff 196
Spooky or Fall
Scenes 1 3s 93
Heartfulness short
session 1 1v 6
Big Kid Storytime 1 2s 21
Mosaic of Voices 1 1v 15
Solar Eclipse Event 1 2s 58
Class visits 6 total 4s 187
CLC classes 9 5v 42
Operation Discovery 4 5v 55
Heartfulness Long
session 1 1v 25
Fall Wood Signs 1 4s 103
Stitchin at your library 4 1v 32
Chess 4 2v 54
Cozy Reading 4 1 staff 19
Digital Services
CATEGORY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
COURSERA 16 11 14
NORTHSTAR 0 0 0
LinkedIn
Learning 3 1 1
A-Z WORLD
BRITANNICA
ESCOLAR 0 0 0
BRITANNICA
SCHOOL
EDITION 13 50 34
CULTURE
GRAMS 1 0 0
DMV 29 8 20
E-LIBRARY 0 0 0
GALE
ARCHIVES
UNBOUND
GETSETUP TBA 0 1
VETS NOW 3 0 2
LIB
CENTRAL
PQRC 20 2 2
SERVICE
SKILLSHARE TBA ENDED
Circulation
AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
15669 7607 8350
Reference
AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
791 614 327
Door Count
AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
6,142 7672 7800
[Started 8.12.23]
Patron Registration
AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
374 253 387
Youth services:
• Director Manuel reported on the commendable enthusiasm exhibited by the Teen Advisory Board this year. In
response to their feedback, the director is formulating a grant proposal titled "Teens Helping Teens," encompassing
initiatives such as a podcast, mental health workshops, a mental health rally, and certification for teens in mental
health first aid. Andriana, a library staff member, is now actively assisting the Teen Advisory Board, paving the way for
the director's eventual transition from direct involvement.
F-2 Private Sector (Trustees’) Investments Report
• BOS Bank value on October 31, 2023: $2043.41
• Phillips Financial value on October 31,2023: $142,727.19
• Trustee Casey inquired about the possibility of the director sharing a mid-year budget for the library. Trustee Kooger
advocated for the reinstatement of this reporting practice, highlighting its significance. Director Manuel affirmed her
willingness to reintroduce it, emphasizing that the library is currently underspending in most categories.
F-3 Lodi Public Library Foundation Report – Stuart Krengel
• The Storyteller's Dinner successfully generated approximately $3,000 in revenue. The Foundation plans to conduct a
comprehensive debriefing after a month of not meeting and is contemplating the addition of a new member to their
board. The director will be presenting a wish list for the upcoming year.
F-4 Friends of the Lodi Public Library Report – Kathryn Siddle
• The Friends' bookstore achieved a record-breaking month in October, with earnings exceeding $1,700. With an ample
volunteer base, efforts are underway to expand the bookstore's operational days. The annual meeting and volunteer
appreciation for Friends are scheduled for December.
F-5 Bike Repair Stand –– Nick Dalebout
• Trustee Dalebout initiated the concept following a personal experience attempting to repair his son's bicycle without the
necessary tools. Prompted by his wife, he discovered a bike repair stand at Lodi Lake, where a variety of tools
facilitated the resolution of the issue. Notably, this stand appears to be the sole one in Lodi, prompting Trustee Dalebout
to propose the idea of installing a similar bike stand at the library. Trustee Campbell provided context, explaining that
the original plan was for a bike stand at the library, but due to the COVID-19 shutdown, it was relocated to Lodi Lake.
Expressing enthusiasm, Trustee Casey supported the idea and sought information on the potential cost. Kathryn Siddle,
who played a role in securing funding for the initial stand, disclosed an estimated cost of around $4,500. She suggested
exploring grant opportunities, specifically mentioning Transportation Funds from the state of California. Highlighting the
success and durability of the original bike stand, Kathryn offered to provide detailed information. Trustee Casey
proposed revisiting the matter in December, with the intention of assessing costs and conducting a vote, aligning with
the historical practice of trustees providing supplemental funding for such initiatives.
F-6 Review and Approve New Library Card Policy to Include People Living in or Visiting the Lodi Area – Akiliah
Manuel
• Director Manuel provided a comprehensive rationale for the crucial need to revise the library card policy. Since
assuming her role, she encountered two homeschooled families engaged in van life, legally residing in other states.
Remarkably, these families, possessing out-of-state driver's licenses and relevant paperwork from a regional park
where they stayed, faced limitations due to the current policy. Additionally, community canvassing across all five
districts unveiled a sizable population in Lodi comprising residents from other countries lacking California licenses.
Despite possessing documentation such as rental agreements or utility bills confirming Lodi residence, these individuals
were unable to obtain a library card under the current policy. In response, the director advocates for a policy
amendment, aligning with goal 2.2 of the strategic plan to review and update policies for equity. The primary goal of the
strategic plan is to enhance community awareness of the library's value, resources, and program availability. The
proposed revision permits individuals residing or visiting Lodi without a California license to be able to obtain a library
card. Approval of the update maintains the requirement for a residential document or proof of allotted stay, with the sole
change allowing anyone with a valid governmental ID to obtain a library card. Trustee Kooger moved to approve H-6,
seconded by Trustee Campbell, resulting in unanimous approval of the updated policy outlined in H-6. This revision
allows residents of the United States, including those with foreign IDs and various addresses, to obtain a library card.
G. ADJOURNMENT: 6:09 p.m.
LODI PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
DATE November 13, 2023
PAGE SIX
Pursuant to Section 54954.2(a) of the Government Code of the State of California, this agenda was posted at least
72 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting at a public place freely accessible to the public 24 hours a day.
Jazmin Duffy
Administrative Clerk
**Notice: Pursuant to Government Code §54954.3(a), public comments may be directed to the legislative body
concerning any item contained on the agenda for this meeting before (in the case of Closed Session items) or during
consideration of the item.
All staff reports or other written documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the agenda are on file in the Office of the
Lodi Public Library, located at 201 W. Locust Street, Lodi, and are available for public inspection. Agendas and staff reports are also
posted on the City’s website at www.lodi.gov. If requested, the agenda shall be made available in appropriate alternative formats to
persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132), and the
federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. To make a request for disability-related modification or accommodation
contact the City Clerk’s Office as soon as possible and at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Language interpreter requests must
be received at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to help ensure availability. Contact Yvette Herrera at (209) 333-5554. Solicitudes
de interpretación de idiomas deben ser recibidas por lo menos con 72 horas de anticipación a la reunión para ayudar a asegurar la
disponibilidad. Llame a Yvette Herrera (209) 333-5554.
For information regarding this Agenda please contact:
Akiliah Manuel
Library Director
Telephone: (209) 333-5540
Agenda
AGENDA
LODI PUBLIC LIBRARY Date: November 13, 2023
Time: Closed Session: 5:00 p.m.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Regular meeting: 5:30 p.m.
Lodi Public Library
201 West Locust Street, Lodi, CA. 95240
For information regarding this Agenda please contact:
Akiliah Manuel
Library Director
Telephone: (209) 333-5540
Notice Regarding Public Comments
Public Comment may be submitted in the following ways:
In-person – The Lodi Public Library is open to the public in accordance with CDPH and CalOSHA
guidelines.
Email amanuel@lodi.gov
Received no later than two hours prior to the meeting
Mail – Lodi Public Library 201 W. Locust Street Lodi, CA. 95240
Hand delivered to: Lodi Public Library 201 W. Locust Street, Lodi, CA. 95240
Received no later than two hours prior to the meeting
A. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
B. Announcement of Closed Session - Public Employee Performance Evaluation – Title: Library Director –
Conference with City Attorney regarding annual performance review of Library Director Pursuant to
Government Code § 54957.
C. Adjourn to Close Session
NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WILL COMMENCE NO SOONER THAN 5:30 P.M.
D. Return to Open Session/ Disclosure of Action
E. INTRODUCTIONS
F. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
G. COMMENTS BY THE PUBLIC, LIBRARY BOARD, AND STAFF (NON-AGENDA ITEMS)
If you wish to address the Library Board, please refer to the Notice at the beginning of this agenda. Individuals are limited to
one appearance during this section of the Agenda. (The time allowed per person per non-agenda item for comments made
by the public is limited to five minutes.)
H. REPORTS
H-1 Library Director Report
H-2 Private Sector (Trustees’) Investments Report
H-3 Lodi Public Library Foundation Report – Stuart Krengel
H-4 Friends of the Lodi Public Library Report – Kathryn Siddle
H-5 Bike Repair Stand – Nick Dalebout
H-6 Review and Approve New Library Card Policy to Include People Living in or Visiting the Lodi Area – Akiliah
Manuel
I. ADJOURNMENT
LODI PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
DATE November 13, 2023
PAGE TWO
Pursuant to Section 54954.2(a) of the Government Code of the State of California, this agenda was posted at least
72 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting at a public place freely accessible to the public 24 hours a day.
Jazmin Duffy
Administrative Clerk
**Notice: Pursuant to Government Code §54954.3(a), public comments may be directed to the legislative body
concerning any item contained on the agenda for this meeting before (in the case of Closed Session items) or during
consideration of the item.
All staff reports or other written documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the agenda are on file in the Office of the
Lodi Public Library, located at 201 W. Locust Street, Lodi, and are available for public inspection. Agendas and staff reports are also
posted on the City’s website at www.lodi.gov. If requested, the agenda shall be made available in appropriate alternative formats to
persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132), and the
federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. To make a request for disability-related modification or accommodation
contact the City Clerk’s Office as soon as possible and at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Language interpreter requests must
be received at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to help ensure availability. Contact Yvette Herrera at (209) 333-5554. Solicitudes
de interpretación de idiomas deben ser recibidas por lo menos con 72 horas de anticipación a la reunión para ayudar a asegurar la
disponibilidad. Llame a Yvette Herrera (209) 333-5554.
For information regarding this Agenda please contact:
Akiliah Manuel
Library Director
Telephone: (209) 333-5540
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