City of Omak

Discussions included the correction of a PUD bill error, resulting in a credit balance. Activities for Library Week were noted. An attendee reported on insights gained from the Public Library Association Conference regarding post-Covid services and library security, and the development of a standardized policy for patron infractions was mentioned. The library is implementing weekly computer assistance hours on Wednesdays. Bills for services including mat cleaning, supplies, power, and utilities were presented for approval. New business covered the continuation of computer assistance, upcoming summer operational hours (to be finalized), and planned displays celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander month and Jewish American month. The start of Summer Library Programming, including weekly Thursday craft sessions, was announced, with sign-ups required due to limited supplies.

Discussions confirmed that library board meetings will continue to be held on Mondays. The board welcomed a new Customer Service Technician and noted the start of a new Monday writing group led by Maxine Frazier. Planning for Summer Library Programs is underway, with hopes for in-person activities and author book raffles beginning in May. The board acknowledged the resignation of a board position. Financial matters included the presentation of bills for payment, resulting in a net total due after a credit. New business focused on planning summer youth engagement, including an arts/voice workshop featuring local artists and a presentation by a Mariachi group. The ongoing wall art project encouraging children's creative expression was also reviewed, noting its positive community reception.

Key discussions included the revision of the water/storm/sewer bill by the city to the correct amount. The board approved several bills for payment, including utilities and carpet cleaning services. New business centered on the hiring of a new full-time Customer Service Technician, Calvin Braley. The library received N-95 masks from Okanogan County for air quality distribution and will continue serving as a cooling station. Plans were discussed for International Cat and Dog Month displays and the conclusion of the Summer Reading Program on August 31st, encouraging submissions for prizes. With staffing complete, the library plans to focus on community relations, including attending the Omak City Chamber block party. The board also noted a question regarding the mowing schedule for the front lawn and confirmed that Zoom meetings are satisfactory. The resignation of board member Loretta Houston was noted, with a thank you card planned.

Discussions during the meeting addressed the continuation of the honor system regarding mask requirements for patrons, with specific mandates for unvaccinated patrons and children aged 5 to 11. Bills presented for payment were approved, though a high water/sewer/storm bill required follow-up with the city concerning a billing error in the sewer section, which was later confirmed to be corrected. The success of the rolling bookshelves in the Young Adult section was noted, and the ongoing selection process for the Children's Section mascot was updated. The library served as a Cooling Station during a heat wave, requiring temporary adjustments to seating and DVD storage. Current display themes centered on the Summer Reading Program and the American Revolution. Updates were provided on the hiring process for the CST position, with interviews held and an expected new hire soon. The board also discussed logistical alternatives to Zoom meetings for future sessions. The Regional Manager was introduced to the board.

The meeting addressed old business concerning the appointment of a new board member, Carol Carder, and provided updates on library infrastructure projects, noting that concrete work for new entrance benches was poured and the installation awaits drying time and better weather. The recent 'Lost Mummy Escape Room' activity was reported as a great success, leading to plans for another session at the end of summer. Bills, including payments for water, electricity, and mat cleaning services, were presented and approved for payment. New business included noting the City Council's approval of the new board member, addressing a water usage spike due to an unattended outside faucet, and sharing information about the 'Team O.N.E.' volunteer project. The board also reported completing a grant application for the library remodeling project, which is scheduled for late 2024, and expressed gratitude for rocks installed outside the meeting room door.