The Board conducted a second reading and adoption of Resolution 2024-26, which pertained to the approval of the newly revised Collection Development Policy. This update marked the first revision since 2002, aiming to align the library’s practices with current best practices and comply with Minnesota statute 134.51, which deals with access to library materials and patrons’ rights. The revised policy includes detailed selection criteria and considerations, including local demand and availability of materials at other libraries within the TDS system.

During the discussion, board members scrutinized various aspects of the policy. One member expressed curiosity regarding some terminology in the children and young adult sections, specifically “in loco parentis,” which the member initially misinterpreted. The board also addressed the constraints of storage and display space, emphasizing the importance of retaining or weeding out collection items based on consistent patron demand. The library director highlighted that multiple copies of popular items are often purchased initially, with adjustments made based on circulation patterns over time.

The board also emphasized the importance of making library policies accessible to the public. One member recounted a conversation about reorganizing the library’s website to enhance accessibility for patrons and staff.

Another topic was the review and adoption of the Reconsideration of Library Resource or Material Policy, outlined in Resolution 2024-27. This policy, last updated in 2008, was brought in line with best practices and the updated Minnesota statute 134.51. The appeal process in the new policy was a focal point of scrutiny, particularly the clause stating that the library director’s decision is final, and requests for reconsideration of the same complaint will not be entertained for three years. One member suggested separating this sentence into its own paragraph for clarity.

The board discussed the potential implications of the appeal process and how it might affect patrons’ willingness to file challenges, given that information regarding reconsideration requests would be considered public data and could be disclosed to third parties. The policy also restricts challenges to community residents or library cardholders, raising questions about the rights of out-of-state cardholders to submit challenges. The library director clarified that transient cards are issued for a limited duration, and while these patrons are considered library users, the board could discuss further restrictions on their ability to file challenges.

In addition to policy updates, the board considered a resolution regarding a donation from the Optimus Club of New Ulm. The donation of $654 was designated for the purchase of “Wonder books,” which feature built-in audio components, and “woodles,” handheld devices that combine learning and play through audio. A motion was made to accept the donation, which passed through a roll call vote.

The board also addressed the removal of trees located near the library’s book drop, which sustained damage during a recent storm. The engineering department recommended removing both trees due to structural concerns, with one tree exhibiting base rot. The street department was set to carry out the work at no cost to the library. A motion to approve the removal of the trees was passed through a roll call vote.

Another operational concern was the replacement of the library’s panic button system, which had become unreliable. The current system operated on a landline and had failed routine tests. The proposed new system would be hardwired to the library’s fire alarm panel and include an additional panic button, with the project recommended to be awarded to Precision Alarm. The total cost was quoted at $1,535, covered by the library’s reserve fund. The plan included regular annual testing to ensure reliability.

Lastly, the board addressed the 2025 library fees and fines schedule, which proposed eliminating meeting room and equipment rental fees while noting no charges for cover sheets related to local or toll-free numbers. The board acknowledged that meeting room rental fees primarily contributed to the budget through specific rental agreements rather than general usage. The fee schedule would be submitted for review and approval in the subsequent month, allowing for further public input before finalization.