5.4 LIBSR 01-25-20225.q -
Library Services Coordinator Report -Board Meeting —1/25/2022
The library has gone "Fines Free" as of 1/3/2022. With this change, we are no longer charging daily
overdue fines on any materials. As we still want patrons to renew or return by the due date, we have
implemented a procedure/policy change, where if any items are more than 10 days overdue, the patron
account is blocked from further checkouts, including digital materials and internet use, until items are
returned or renewed. In addition, if any material is more than 45 days overdue, it is considered lost, and
patrons will be assessed for the replacement cost of the material. We hope this change will reduce
barriers to access to the library, and see an increase in borrower numbers and library use.
The Winter Reading Program (WRP) with the theme of "Books Like Us" began on 1/3/2022 as well.
Patrons can register for the program in person at the library or on the Beanstack app. Elk River currently
has 30 patrons registered. The program is for adults and teens, and features weekly drawings in Elk
River for prizes like mugs, winter hats, or books. We will also be drawing for grand prizes at the end of
the program, which is 2/28/2022, including a "Kindle" e -reader and Amazon gift cards. A special
THANKS to our Elk River Friends of the Library for sponsoring the grand prizes for this program!
We are continuing to hold some of our regular programs in-person, such as Story Time, Schooled in Art,
Lego/STEM club, and Adult Book Club as well as some Legacy programs sponsored by the MN Arts and
Cultural Heritage fund. In February, we will have two nights with musical performances from
singer/guitarist David Malmberg on Tues. Feb. 15, and singer/pianist Andrew Walesch on Thurs. Feb. 17.
In March/April/May, we will be continuing to reschedule performances and author visits that were
postponed in 2020 and early 2021, including children's author, Mary Casanova, and singer/guitarist Jeff
Bianchi. Dates are still to be determined. Please help us spread the word regarding these performances
and events.
At this time, there are no outreach events planned for February through May. However, we will keep
the board informed about upcoming outreach opportunities for late spring and summer as they are
scheduled.
The Covid-19 pandemic continues to have its effects on circulation at the library. In Elk River, we ended
2021 with a circulation increase of almost 40% over 2020, compared to a region wide increase of 32%.
However, our circulation in Elk River is still down about 12-13% when compared to 2019 circulation
numbers. Staffing at Elk River continues to be affected too. We currently have an aide opening, with
evening and every other Saturday hours, and hope to begin interviewing soon.
In addition, we will be implementing for all staff the Emergency Temporary Standard issued by OSHA on
Covid-19 Vaccination and Testing. GRRL does employ more than 100 employees, and therefore must
comply to avoid significant penalties from MN OSHA. Additional questions regarding this
implementation can be directed to our Executive Director and/or our Associate Director of Human
Resources.
\%BRARY
EAT RIVER REGIOPIAI