Library Commission Minutes

June 15 , 2006

Location: Central Library

Members Present: Fofi Mendez, Kevin O’Connor, Julie Rodriguez, Karen Rokala, Lois Ann Rovira, Edward Schenck, K.C. Veio, Sid Wilson.

Staff Present at Public Session: Robert Bowles, Jen Cotton, James Davis, Megan Devine, Elizabeth Elder, Eleanor Glover, Jennifer Hartman, Letty Icolari, Cori Jackamore, Celeste Jackson, Evi Klett, Susan Kotarba, James Kroll, Elaine Langeberg, Rachelle Naishtut, Pam Roeding, Jo Sarling, Richard Weinstock, Derek Wolfgram.

Guests Present: Hanne Lichtenfels, Denver Public Library Friends Foundation; Stephen Seifert, member of the l ocal Steering Committee for the National Performing Arts Convention; Kathryn Pride, community member.

1. Call to Order.
   • President K.C. Veio called the meeting to order at 3:35 p.m.



2. Approval of Minutes of May 18, 2006, Regular Monthly Meeting.
   • All minutes were approved as written.



3. Public Comment Period.
   • The staff and guests present introduced themselves.



4. Possible Touring Exhibition at DPL: "America’s Irreplaceable Dance Treasures: The First 100," part of the National Performing Arts Convention.
   • Stephen Seifert presented details and distributed information about this event. James Kroll explained how decisions on Exhibits are made and agreed to bring the request to the Library’s Exhibit Committee.



5. Report of the President and Members.
   • K.C. Veio reported that the 2006 Booklover’s Ball Kick Off Party was held on June 8 at Euro, a Cherry Creek restaurant. The theme for this year’s Ball is “Experience Wonderland” styled on ideas from Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.
   • K.C. Veio reported that the city is courting the Democratic National Convention (DNC) to consider Denver as host city for 2008. The DNC Site Selection Committee requested use of the Vida Ellison Gallery gratis for a dinner on June 22. Kevin O’Connor moved that the Library waive the usual fees for the event, as it would be good for the city. Edward Schenck seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.
   • K.C. Veio reported that Library staff are investigating the purchase of a parcel of land, in order to expand parking, that the Air Force Finance Center will be vacating across from the Schlessman Family Branch Library.



6. Report of the Denver Public Library Friends Foundation.
   • Hanne Lichtenfels reported that the Friends Foundation Board and the Library Commission will host a joint reception welcoming new City Librarian Shirley Amore on Tuesday, July 11, at 6 p.m. at Dr. Jane Day’s home. Invitations will go out shortly.
   • Kevin O’Connor reported that the Friends Foundation held a wonderful reception for Marilyn Amer on May 16 recognizing her long-time efforts for the Library. He proposed that the Library Commission present a resolution for adoption at the July meeting recognizing her commitment. The Advancement and Communication Department will work with Kevin O’Connor to write this.



7. Monthly Financial Report through May 31, 2006.
   • Robert Bowles presented this report.



8. Approval of Proposed 2007 Budget.
   • K.C. Veio reported that for the first time since 2003 city agencies are not being asked to plan reductions for the next year’s budget. He then summarized the work of the Library Commission Finance Committee. Upon motion by Karen Rokala, seconded by Lois Ann Rovira, the Commission unanimously adopted the 2007 required General Fund Budget proposals.



9. Appointment of Nominating Committee.
   • Fofi Mendez, Karen Rokala and Julie Rodriguez volunteered for the Nominating Committee which will bring a suggested slate of next year’s officers to the July Commission meeting.



10. Report of the City Librarian and Staff .
    • K.C. Veio thanked Letty Icolari for stepping in as Interim City Librarian. He noted that she has risen to the challenge, and then some.
    • In addition to her written report, Letty Icolari announced that there are two public exhibits currently at the Central Library - the Latino artist exhibit on level 7 and editorial cartoonists on level 5.



11. Other Business.
    • Library staff are in the process of studying the rising circulation of materials. At Kevin O’Connor’s request a report explaining this trend will be made at a future meeting.



12. K.C. Veio adjourned the meeting at 4:30 p.m.
    

Submitted by Lois Ann Rovira, Secretary