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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-18-2018 Library Commission Agenda PacketSaratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 1 of 2 SARATOGA LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING December 18, 2018 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING Saratoga Library | 13650 Saratoga Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070 ROLL CALL ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS Any member of the public may address the Library Commission for up to three (3) minutes on matters not on the Agenda. The law generally prohibits the Library Commission from discussing or taking action on such items. The Library Commission may choose to place the topic on a future agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Draft minutes for the October 23, 2018 meeting AGENDA ITEMS 1. Review of 2018 Work Plan, Consider 2019 Work Plan Summary: Every year, the City Council considers and authorizes Commission work plans. Typically, the Commission also presents progress on existing work plan items. The Council review of work plans typically happens in the beginning of the calendar year. Action: Review and identify progress on the 2018 work plan, identify recommended changes to the 2019 work plan. 2. Community News & Trends Summary: Share news and trends within the community. REPORTS 1. Nancy Howe, Santa Clara County Librarian 2. Michael Eitner, Saratoga Community Librarian 3. Alice Patrick, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries 4. Saratoga Library Teen Advisory Board 5. Flora Hoffman, Library Commission Chair 6. Crystal Bothelio, Saratoga Deputy City Manager SUMMARIZE ACTION ITEMS Saratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 2 of 2 AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING ADJOURNMENT CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF AGENDA PACKET, & COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT I, Crystal Bothelio, Deputy City Manager for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting of the Library Commission was posted and available for review on December 13, 2018 at the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070 and on the City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us. Signed this 13th day of December 2018 at Saratoga, California. Crystal Bothelio, Deputy City Manager In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials provided to the Library Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda are available at the office of the City Clerk at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070. Any materials distributed by staff after the posting of the agenda are made available for public review at the office of the City Clerk at the time they are distributed to the Library Commission. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at 408.868.1294 or npimentel@saratoga.ca.us. Notification 24 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [28 CFR 5.102 -35.104 ADA title II] LIBRARY COMMISSION AGENDA PLANNER MEETING AGENDA ITEMS REPORTS February 27, 2018 • Community News & Trends • 2018 Commission Work Plan • Library District Year End Service Report • Summarize Action Items • Nancy Howe, County Librarian • Michael Eitner, Community Librarian • Alice Patrick, Friends • Teen Advisory Board • Karen Burley, Chair • Crystal Bothelio, Liaison March 5, 2018 5:00 p.m. Commission Work Plan Study Session April 24, 2018 • Community News & Trends • West Valley College Collaboration • Commissioner-Led Events: Junior Achievement • Library Card Promotion: Commissioner Engagement • Library Space Utilization • Summarize Action Items • Nancy Howe, County Librarian • Michael Eitner, Community Librarian • Alice Patrick, Friends • Teen Advisory Board • Karen Burley, Chair • Crystal Bothelio, Liaison June 26, 2018 • Community News & Trends • Summarize Action Items • West Valley College Collaboration • Commissioner Led Events: Junior Achievement • Nancy Howe, County Librarian • Michael Eitner, Community Librarian • Alice Patrick, Friends • Teen Advisory Board • Karen Burley, Chair • Crystal Bothelio, Liaison August 28, 2018 • Community News & Trends • Commissioner Led Events: Junior Achievement • Community Outreach at Movie Nights & Farmers Markets • West Valley College Collaboration • Monte Sereno Outreach & Engagement • Summarize Action Items • Nancy Howe, County Librarian • Michael Eitner, Community Librarian • Alice Patrick, Friends • Teen Advisory Board • Karen Burley, Chair • Crystal Bothelio, Liaison October 23, 2018 • Community News & Trends • Library Commission Photo • Selection of Chair and Vice Chair • Review 2018 Work Plan, Consider 2019 Work Plan • West Valley College Collaboration • Monte Sereno Outreach & Engagement • Community Outreach • Rescheduling December Meeting Date • Summarize Action Items • Nancy Howe, County Librarian • Michael Eitner, Community Librarian • Alice Patrick, Friends • Teen Advisory Board • Chair • Crystal Bothelio, Liaison December 18, 2018 • Community News & Trends • Nancy Howe, County Librarian • Finalize 2019 Work Plan • Summarize Action Items • Michael Eitner, Community Librarian • Alice Patrick, Friends • Teen Advisory Board • Flora Hoffman, Chair • Crystal Bothelio, Liaison Unscheduled Future Items • Interior Space Review Recommendations • West Valley College Collaboration & Next Steps * Meeting will be canceled or rescheduled LIBRARY COMMISSION DUTIES/PURPOSE, WORK PLAN, & MEMBERSHIP COMMISSION DUTIES/PURPOSE: Resolution No. 16-043: The Library Commission shall serve as a senior advisory and liaison body. Its basic responsibilities shall include the following: 1. Provide counsel and recommendations on Library policies, budgets, plans and procedures to the Saratoga City Council, the City staff, and the Santa Clara County Library staff and Saratoga Library Supervisor. 2. Identify and bring to the attention of the Ci ty Council , the City staff, and the Santa Clara County Library staff (as appropriate) present and prospective issues and questions relating to Library operation. 3. Participate, along with other appropriate governmental units, in explaining and interpreting matters pertaining to Library operation to Library users, Library support groups, and the general public. 4. Perform such other activities as may be directed by the Saratoga City Council. In carrying out its basic responsibilities, the Library Commission shall perform the following duties: 1. Hold formal meetings as required (see preceding Section on "Administration”). 2. Maintain communications with the City Council, the City staff, the Santa Clara County Library staff, and the Saratoga Library Supervisor on matters that have a significant impact on the Library's budget and operation. 3. Outreach to different community groups to inform them of library services and to receive suggestions on improving Library operation. 4. Maintain within the Commission a continuity of knowledge of the Library, its operation and its problems. 5. Keep generally informed on technical developments that could have a bearing on the Library's operation. 6. Participate in the general planning of the library's operation and in the planning of events related to the Library. 7. Work with "Friends of the Saratoga Libraries" and other support groups as may be desirable in the planning of their activities. 8. Promote optimal utilization of the library space, and encourage service mindedness on the part of all having to do with providing Library service to the public. 9. Engage the Saratoga Library Youth Advisory group in matters concerning use of the Library and programs. 2018 LIBRARY COMMISSION WORK PLAN KEY POINTS OF WORK PLAN 1. Support library events and programs 2. Promote library events and programs; engage in information sharing with library and public 3. Identify continuing opportunities to partner with West Valley College 4. Help increase the number of residents with library cards TOPICS IN DETAIL • Support Library Events and Programs I. Attend library events as Commissioners and/or participants (eg, Silicon Valley Reads programs, trivia events, etc.) II. Volunteer to assist library staff at library events (for example, Junior Achievement) III. Volunteer at outreach programs (eg, Saturday Farmers Market, Movie Nights, Blossom Festival) to increase number of card holders to 85% of Saratoga and Monte Sereno residents • Promote library events and programs; engage in Information sharing with the library and the public I. Brainstorm with Diane Roche (County marketing person) on ways to promote Library events and programs II. Spread awareness via our networks of library events and offerings and encourage attendance (for example, post in Nextdoor Saratoga, post on Facebook page, tell our Book Clubs, etc.) III. Update Saratoga News of upcoming library events IV. Write an article for Saratoga Source (monthly e-newsletter) or Saratoga Newspaper to feature library program(s) V. Provide recommendations to library staff at Commission meetings. This would include ideas for programs that our community is interested in (eg, 3D printing); new trends, and upcoming community events where outreach might occur VI. Attend annual Friends and Commissioner forum VII. Visit other County Library Commission and JPA meetings • Identify continuing opportunities to partner with West Valley College I. Work on 2018 – 2019 Coral Reef Crochet Project (schedule viewing of Chasing Coral at Library, encourage crochet circles, attend seminars, help with displays), with West Valley College taking the lead on this effort • Help increase the number of residents with library cards I. Volunteer at outreach programs II. Target Monte Sereno residents CURRENT MEMBERSHIP Name Term End City Email Christina Meiser 9/30/2022 cmeiser@saratoga.ca.us Flora Hoffman, Chair 9/30/2019 fhoffman@saratoga.ca.us Eric Lewis 9/30/2020 elewis@saratoga.ca.us Steven White, Monte Sereno Representative 9/30/2021 swhite@saratoga.ca.us Robert Gulino, Vice Chair 9/30/2021 rgulino@saratoga.ca.us Saratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 1 of 4 MINUTES SARATOGA LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 23, 2018 CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Flora Hoffman called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. at the Saratoga Library at 13650 Saratoga Avenue. 7:05 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Vice Chair Flora Hoffman, Commissioner Robert Gulino, Eric Lewis Christina Meiser, and Steven White Absent: None Also Present: Nancy Howe, Michael Eitner, Alice Patrick, Gideon Srinivasan, Nabeha Barkatullah, Crystal Bothelio ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Draft minutes for the August 28, 2018 meeting GULINO/WHITE MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FOR THE AUGUST 28, 2018 MEETING. MOTION PASSED. AYES: LEWIS, MEISER, GULINO, HOFFMAN, WHITE. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. AGENDA ITEMS 1. Group Photo Action: Take a group photo. The Commission took a group photo in the Library. 2. Selection of Chair and Vice Chair Summary: The Chair and Vice Chair serve for a term of 1 year. Each Commissioner may only serve as Chair or Vice Chair once during a 4-year term on the Commission. Action: Select new Chair and Vice Chair. GULINO/WHITE MOVED TO SELECT FLORA HOFFMAN AS THE CHAIR. MOTION PASSED. AYES: LEWIS, MEISER, GULINO, HOFFMAN, WHITE. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. Saratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 2 of 4 HOFFMAN/WHITE MOVED TO SELECT ROBERT GULINO AS VICE CHAIR. MOTION PASSED. AYES: LEWIS, MEISER, GULINO, HOFFMAN, WHITE. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. 3. Review of 2018 Work Plan, Consider 2019 Work Plan Summary: Every year, the City Council considers and authorizes Commission work plans. Typically, the Commission also presents progress on existing work plan items. The Council review of work plans typically happens in the beginning of the calendar year. Action: Review and identify progress on the 2018 work plan, identify recommended changes to the 2019 work plan. Chair Hoffman reviewed the existing work plan. The Commission discussed Saratoga Library priorities for the upcoming year and areas of interest, including targeted outreach to older adults, individuals in care facilities, and pre- kindergarten children, and attendance at community events. The Commission agreed to continue discussion of the work plan at the next meeting. 4. West Valley College Collaboration Summary: One of the Library Commission’s work plan items includes identifying opportunities to partner with West Valley College, including the 2019 Coral Reef Crochet Project. Chair Hoffman introduced the item and shared background on the project. Saratoga Community Librarian Michael Eitner shared that the monthly crocheting group to support the project has started. The first gathering included a group of 10. During the first gathering, the group watched a video about the Coral Reef Crochet Project. 5. Monte Sereno Outreach and Engagement Summary: Discuss efforts to reach out and engage residents of Monte Sereno. The Commission discussed outreach efforts to Monte Sereno residents, including information shared through Nextdoor, the Monte Sereno newsletter, on the City website, and at events. 6. Community Outreach Summary: Discuss Library Commission outreach activity. No outreach activity occurred since the last meeting. 7. Rescheduling December Meeting Date Summary: The December meeting falls on a holiday. In the past, the December meeting has been rescheduled for earlier in the month. Saratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 3 of 4 Action: Consider rescheduling or canceling the December meeting. The Commission agreed to meet on December 18. 8. Community News & Trends Summary: Share news and trends within the community. None REPORTS 1. Nancy Howe, Santa Clara County Librarian Nancy Howe shared information about the outcome of local bond measures, diabetes education programs, American Library Association conference, the upcoming Joint Powers Authority meeting, and a recent article on the impact of libraries on democracy. 2. Michael Eitner, Saratoga Community Librarian Michael Eitner reported on rates of library card holders in Saratoga and Monte Sereno, the results of a survey on creating a remote library at the old Monte Sereno Post Office, outreach at the Monte Sereno annual picnic, and growth in use of downloadable materials. 3. Alice Patrick, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries Alice Patrick shared information about the Saratoga Authors Hall of Fame, National Friends of Libraries Week, and volunteers featured in the Friends newsletter. 4. Saratoga Library Teen Advisory Board Nabeha Barkatullah shared information about recent and upcoming Teen Advisory Board events and activities. She noted that residents her age have been interested in climate change. 5. Library Commission Chair No report 6. Crystal Bothelio, Saratoga Deputy City Manager Crystal Bothelio shared information about the Commission Recognition Dinner, 2020 by 2020 Tree Planting Challenge, and the annual Saratogan, Saratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 4 of 4 SUMMARIZE ACTION ITEMS Chair Hoffman said she would reach out to former Commissioner and Chair Karen Burley about her discussions with West Valley College. She requested that Commissioners review the work plan for updates and asked that they reach out to Michael Eitner if they are able to attend upcoming community events. AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING Commission Work Plan ADJOURNMENT Chair Hoffman adjourned the meeting at 8:30 p.m. Minutes respectfully submitted: Crystal Bothelio, Deputy City Manager City of Saratoga CITY OF SARATOGA Memorandum To: Library Commission From: Crystal Bothelio, Deputy City Manager Date: December 18, 2018 Subject: Review of 2018 Work Plan, Consider 2019 Work Plan Every year, the City Council considers and authorizes Commission work plans. Typically, the Commission also presents progress on existing work plan items. The Council review of work plans typically happens in the beginning of the calendar year. This item has been added to the October and December meetings to provide the Commission with the opportunity to begin reviewing and identifying progress on the 2018 work plan, as well as identifying recommended changes to the 2019 work plan. At the October 2018 meeting, the Commission discussed 2019 priorities and areas of interest, which included targeted outreach to older adults, individuals in care facilities, and pre-kindergarten children, as well as attendance at community events. The 2018 Library Commission work plan is attached. 2018 LIBRARY COMMISSION WORK PLAN KEY POINTS OF WORK PLAN 1. Support library events and programs 2. Promote library events and programs; engage in information sharing with library and public 3. Identify continuing opportunities to partner with West Valley College 4. Help increase the number of residents with library cards TOPICS IN DETAIL  Support Library Events and Programs I. Attend library events as Commissioners and/or participants (eg, Silicon Valley Reads programs, trivia events, etc.) II. Volunteer to assist library staff at library events (for example, Junior Achievement) III. Volunteer at outreach programs (eg, Saturday Farmers Market, Movie Nights, Blossom Festival) to increase number of card holders to 85% of Saratoga and Monte Sereno residents  Promote library events and programs; engage in Information sharing with the library and the public I. Brainstorm with Diane Roche (County marketing person) on ways to promote Library events and programs II. Spread awareness via our networks of library events and offerings and encourage attendance (for example, post in Nextdoor Saratoga, post on Facebook page, tell our Book Clubs, etc.) III. Update Saratoga News of upcoming library events IV. Write an article for Saratoga Source (monthly e-newsletter) or Saratoga Newspaper to feature library program(s) V. Provide recommendations to library staff at Commission meetings. This would include ideas for programs that our community is interested in (eg, 3D printing); new trends, and upcoming community events where outreach might occur VI. Attend annual Friends and Commissioner forum VII. Visit other County Library Commission and JPA meetings  Identify continuing opportunities to partner with West Valley College I. Work on 2018 – 2019 Coral Reef Crochet Project (schedule viewing of Chasing Coral at Library, encourage crochet circles, attend seminars, help with displays), with West Valley College taking the lead on this effort  Help increase the number of residents with library cards I. Volunteer at outreach programs II. Target Monte Sereno residents Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga November 2018 Commission Report Nancy Howe, County Librarian Silicon Valley Reads 2019 Silicon Valley Reads is a collaborative, county-wide program designed to engage entire communities in conversation around a single theme. The journey of discovery about one’s own family history and heritage is the focus of Silicon Valley Reads 2019. Finding Samuel Lowe by Paula Madison, It's All Relative by A.J. Jacobs, and The Stranger in my Genes by Bill Griffeth are the selected titles and featured authors. Madison is a nationally honored journalist and retired NBC executive. In her book Finding Samuel Lowe, she describes growing up in Harlem and feeling that her family was somehow different from the African-American families around her. Her quest to learn more about her mother’s roots in Jamaica leads to the discovery of a Chinese grandfather and eventually reconnection with 300 long-lost relatives in China. Jacobs is a best-selling author and immersion journalist who chronicles his three -year adventure to help build the biggest family tree in history, starting with his own 80,000+ “cousins” identified in a genealogy database. Griffeth is the co-anchor of “Nightly Business Report” produced by CNBC and writes about how he was shaken to the core when he discovered through a DNA test that the family tree he had spent years researching was not his own. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Morgan Hill Library Expands Hours Starting December Responding to community requests to be open on weekends, Morgan Hill Library will be expanding their hours from 51 to 55 hours per week including Sunday hours. Effective the week of Monday, December 3, Morgan Hill Library will be opening at 12 pm Monday through Wednesday and will offer Sunday hours for the first time, from 1 to 5 pm. SCCLD has initiated these changes in response to a customer satisfaction survey on library hours. The additional open hours of service reflect the preferences expressed by the Morgan Hill community and will provide residents more opportunities to visit the library and access services at times that are convenient to them. Morgan Hill Library will celebrate the additional hours of service with a special performance by Germar the magician on Sunday, December 9 at 2 pm. We hope you will be able to join us. SCCLD Provides Student Support Across the Library District SCCLD is helping local students excel in school through a combined effort with school districts to offer every student a digital library card, or “eAccount.” The eAccounts provide students with access from home, school, or anywhere with an internet connection to resources for studying, research, reports, homework help, test preparation, and of course, relaxing. During the last fiscal year, over 20,000 student eAccounts were created for Campbell Union, Saratoga Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Union, Saratoga High and Milpitas Unified (K-12) school districts. Since then, SCCLD has added Cupertino Union, Gilroy Unified and Morgan Hill Unified, as well as an update for Saratoga Union School District. In the next two months, SCCLD will add Los Altos School District (K-8). The student eAccounts provide anytim e access to the online library for 8 out of the 13 school districts we serve, with more coming soon! Joint Powers Authority Board Meeting Update The October JPA Library Board meeting was bittersweet as it was the last meeting for three of our longest serving representatives: Burton Craig, Monte Sereno; Emily Lo, Saratoga; and Steve Tate, Morgan Hill. Each of the three is leaving their respective city councils and hence the JPA Board. Steve Tate has served on the library’s JPA for over 20 years and chaired two of our special tax campaigns. At the meeting, the JPA accepted the end of year financial and service reports, re -elected Supervisor Wasserman and Council member Corrigan as Chair and Vice Chair for 2019, and approved the addition of $1.9 million annualized for additional staff at Campbell, Gilroy, Morgan Hill, and Saratoga for the purpose of offering more open hours to the public. The intent is to allow Campbell and Gilroy to open 1-5 pm on Sundays in early 2019. In April, the JPA had asked that SCCLD open all locations on Sundays if possible and given increased revenue, we believe that we will be able to do so for a minimum of two years. Due to the funding formula in the JPA agreement, every library will receive an increase in revenue that must be used for staffing. Specific plans and schedules will be developed to determine how the incremental funds will be used to support each location. SCCLD Nancy Howe Receives Intellectual Freedom Award The California Library Association is honoring SCCLD County Librarian Nancy Howe at its annual awards gala on Saturday, November 10. Howe is receiving the Zoia Horn Award for Intellection Freedom, which goes to individuals who have made significant contributions to advance intellectual freedom and help preserve free speech in an open society. In 2017, when the grant qualification changed requiring English as a Second Language (ESL) participants to provide social security information, Howe declined to renew the grant and enforce the requirement, concerned about the effect on an already vulnerable population. Upon learning of the loss of funding and recognizing the importance of ESL programs, the Santa Clara County Executive and Board of Supervisors stepped in to provide funding through the year 2020. The Library was able to offer the free classes without interruption in addition to informal conversation clubs and individual reading tutors at every SCCLD library. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Coming Soon: Early Learning Readiness in Morgan Hill Currently, Santa Clara County has a shortage of 1,400 spots in critical early learning programs. Whether a child is Kindergarten ready can have an affect if they are more or less likely to graduate from high school and go on to college. SCCLD is partnering with YMCA to offer an Early Learning Readiness (ELR) program in the Morgan Hill Library to help children develop the social, emotional and literacy skills they need to be prepared for Kindergarten. ELR is a relationship and play based program for informal caregivers caring for young children ages 0-5. The program provides caregivers and children experiences and knowledge necessary to ensure children are prepared for Kindergarten. The Early Learning Readiness program will be available soon at the Morgan Hill Library. WHAT: Early Learning Readiness Program WHERE: Morgan Hill Library WHEN: Tue/Thur from 9-11am Opening in Nov/Dec (date TBD) WHO: SCCLD and YMCA DETAILS:  20 spots for child participants (space is still available)  Interested families should contact the YMCA  Intake process for participant evaluation is conducted by the YMCA  Free- no cost to the participant  This is not a drop in program. Interested families must register and be admitted as a participant. Library Trends: California Library Association Conference: The 2018 California Library Association conference will be held November 9 -11 in Santa Clara. For registration details and more information see https://conference.cla-net.org/2018/ You are invited to a reception on November 9 from 3:30pm – 5:30pm. Please RSVP by November 5, 2018, https://tinyurl.com/y8ksmt4s Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga “We Are Stronger Together,” is sponsored by Pacific Library Partnership, Silicon Valley Library System. The guest speakers are Joe Simitian, President, Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors and Joint Powers Authority Board member for SCCLD, and Lisa M. Gillmor, Mayor, City of Santa Clara. The event will take place at the Santa Clara Convention Center, Great America Room 2, 5001 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054. Following the reception there will also be two events of interest. The Exhibit Hall will open at 6:30 and admission is free. Browsing the exhibit area is an engaging way to learn about library trends and view the latest products from library vendors. SCCLD staff will be available to accompany you through the exhibits if you prefer. In addition, the California Public Library Advocates will be holding an awards dinner https://www.cpladvocates.org/ Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga December 2018 Commission Report Nancy Howe, County Librarian Silicon Valley Reads 2019 Companion Books Silicon Valley Reads is a collaborative, county-wide program designed to engage entire communities in conversation around a single theme. The journey of discovery about one’s own family history and heritage is the focus of Silicon Valley Reads 2019. The Silicon Valley Reads 2019 companion books for children and teens have been selected offering the following reading for our younger SVR participants: Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal For the little ones, there's Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal, a beautiful picture book available in both English and Spanish. A little girl discovers why she has six names and how those names relate to her family history. The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond by Brenda Woods For youngsters in grades 4 to 7, we selected The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond by Brenda Woods. Bi-racial Violet doesn't know much about her African American heritage until she turns 11 and spends time with her paternal grandmother. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Picture Us in the Light by Kelly Loy Gilbert For teens in grades 8 and up, the choice is Picture Us in the Light by Bay Area author Kelly Loy Gilbert. Set in Cupertino, it tells the story of a high school student who discovers a box filled with old letters and files and realizes there's much more to his family's past than he ever imaged. Lending Machines Piloted in Morgan Hill and Milpitas SCCLD is bringing the library to the community, piloting two new library vending machines, branded as “Lending Machines.” Located at the Centennial Recreation Center in Morgan Hill and coming in December to the Barbara Lee Senior Center in Milpitas, they offer convenience as visitors can choose from a selection of favorite new books and movies to borrow. The Lending Machines allow SCCLD to serve even more patrons in new ways and new spaces. The lending machines can hold up to 175 books, or a combination of items, including DVDs and Blu-rays. Patrons access the items they want using a 12-inch touch screen interface, scanning in their library card which opens the door allowing them to borrow items. Once the door is closed, a receipt will be printed. They are located in the lobby of the senior and recreation centers, for maximum visibility. If popular with the public, SCCLD could expand to locate additional units across the County. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Learn English at SCCLD Beginning in January, Gilroy and Milpitas Libraries will be offering free basic English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for adults. ESL instruction can help you to improve your listening, speaking, pronunciation, reading, and writing skills. Increase your vocabulary and knowledge of common English phrases, learn more about American culture, and meet people from around the world. To enroll, simply go to the Gilroy or Milpitas Information Desks. After a successful pilot at the Los Altos Library, a Level Up! ESL class for advanced English learners will be offered weekly at the Saratoga Library. This program is designed to help adults practice their English speaking skills in a fun and interactive way. To enroll, check with the Saratoga Information Desk. Gilroy Library Milpitas Library Saratoga Library Basic ESL Basic ESL Level Up! ESL Jan 7- May 8, 2019 Jan 7 – May 8, 2019 Jan 30 to Mar 30 Mon and Wed Mon and Wed Wed 6:30 to 8:30 pm 6:00 to 8:00 pm 10 am Gilroy Lobby to Receive a Refresh in December The lobby of the Gilroy Library will soon have a new look! Patrons will have an opportunity to browse for popular, new materials, and be able to check them out right in the lobby. Want to enjoy a good book and a snack? The new café furniture will create a welcoming area to read a book, plug in your electronic device and have a snack. The new furniture is designed for everyday needs, and is portable to accommodate the popular summer program, Lunch in the Library. Café furniture selected Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Campbell Voters Approve Measure O Campbell voters made an important investment in their future on November 6, with the passage of Measure O, the Campbell Police and Library Facilities Bond. The $50 million bond will go toward upgrading both the police facility and library. While it is too early to determine what exact changes will be made to the library, priorities from Santa Clara County Library District include optimizing space for services and materials; ensuring the library is fully ADA accessible; making the building energy-efficient; meeting all current fire and earthquake regulations; and providing areas for residents of all ages to enjoy the library. Gaining the approval for a bond measure requires a great deal of long-term planning, community organization and advocacy. Measure O involved organizing and activating a group of volunteers representing the library and police to bring the ballot measure to the City Council, securing their approval, then building awareness and support from the community to vote for the measure. The Friends of the Campbell Library took a leading role in this effort, guided by their President, Susan Gore. For the plans, action and support the Friends of the Library provided to move the bond measure from an idea to reality, Susan was honored by the California Public Library Advocates with the Friend of the Year award at the California Library Association Conference in November 2018. Reminder: Morgan Hill Library Sunday Hours Celebration Join us on Dec 9, 2:00 pm as we celebrate the new Sunday hours at Morgan Hill Library with a community event. Germar the Magician will be performing at 2 pm to entertain patrons of all ages. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Library Trends: The Digital Gap Between Rich and Poor Kids Is Not What We Expected America’s public schools are still promoting devices with screens — even offering digital-only preschools. The rich are banning screens from class altogether. By Nellie Bowles Oct. 26, 2018 The parents in Overland Park, Kan., were fed up. They wanted their children off screens, but they needed strength in numbers. First, because no one wants their kid to be the lone weird one without a phone. And second, because taking the phone away from a middle schooler is actually very, very tough. “We start the meetings by saying, ‘This is hard, we’re in a new frontier, but who is going to help us?’” said Krista Boan, who is leading a Kansas City-based program called START, which stands for Stand Together And Rethink Technology. “We can’t call our moms about this one.” For the last six months, at night in school libraries across Overland Park, a suburb of Kansas City, Mo., about 150 parents have been meeting to talk about one thing: how to get their children off screens. It wasn’t long ago that the worry was that rich students would have access to the internet earlier, gaining tech skills and creating a digital divide. Schools ask students to do homework online, while only about two-thirds of people in the U.S. have broadband internet service. But now, as Silicon Valley’s parents increasingly panic over the impact screens have on their children and move toward screen-free lifestyles, worries over a new digital divide are rising. It could happen that the children of poorer and middle-class parents will be raised by screens, while the children of Silicon Valley’s elite will be going back to wooden toys and the luxury of human interaction. This is already playing out. Throwback play-based preschools are trending in affluent neighborhoods — but Utah has been rolling out a state-funded online-only preschool, now serving around 10,000 children. Organizers announced that the screen-based preschool effort would expand in 2019 with a federal grant to Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Idaho and Montana. Lower-income teenagers spend an average of eight hours and seven minutes a day using screens for entertainment, while higher income peers spend five hours and 42 minutes, according to research by Common Sense Media, a nonprofit media watchdog. (This study counted each screen separately, so a child texting on a phone and watching TV for one hour counted as two hours of screens being Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga used.) Two studies that look at racehave found that white children are exposed to screens significantly less than African-American and Hispanic children. And parents say there is a growing technological divide between public and private schools even in the same community. While the private Waldorf School of the Peninsula, popular with Silicon Valley executives, eschews most screens, the nearby public Hillview Middle School advertises its 1:1 iPad program. The psychologist Richard Freed, who wrote a book about the dangers of screen-time for children and how to connect them back to real world experiences, divides his time between speaking before packed rooms in Silicon Valley and his clinical practice with low-income families in the far East Bay, where he is often the first one to tell parents that limiting screen-time might help with attention and behavior issues. “I go from speaking to a group in Palo Alto who have read my book to Antioch, where I am the first person to mention any of these risks,” Dr. Freed said. He worries especially about how the psychologists who work for these companies make the tools phenomenally addictive, as many are well-versed in the field of persuasive design (or how to influence human behavior through the screen). Examples: YouTube next video autoplays; the slot machine-like pleasure of refreshing Instagram for likes; Snapchat streaks. “The digital divide was about access to technology, and now that everyone has access, the new digital divide is limiting access to technology,” said Chris Anderson, the former editor of Wired magazine. Technology Is a Huge Social Experiment on Children Some parents, pediatricians and teachers around the country are pushing back. “These companies lied to the schools, and they’re lying to the parents,” said Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician in Kansas City. “We’re all getting duped.” “Our kids, my kids included, we are subjecting them to one of the biggest social experiments we have seen in a long time,” she said. “What happens to my daughter if she can’t communicate over dinner — how is she going to find a spouse? How is she going to interview for a job?” “I have families now that go teetotal,” Dr. Burgert said. “They’re like, ‘That’s it, we’re done.’” One of those families are the Brownsbergers, who had long banned smartphones but recently also banned the internet-connected television. The Privilege of Choices In Silicon Valley, some feel anxious about the growing class divide they see around screen-time. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Kirstin Stecher and her husband, who works as an engineer at Facebook, are raising their kids almost completely screen-free. “Is this coming from a place of information — like, we know a lot about these screens,” she said. “Or is it coming from a place of privilege, that we don’t need them as badly?” “There’s a message out there that your child is going to be crippled and in a different dimension if they’re not on the screen,” said Pierre Laurent, a former Microsoft and Intel executive now on the board of trustees at Silicon Valley’s Waldorf School. “That message doesn’t play as well in this part of the world.” “People in this region of the world understand that the real thing is everything that’s happening around big data, AI, and that is not something that you’re going to be particularly good at because you have a cellphone in fourth grade,” Mr. Laurent said. As those working to build products become more wary, the business of getting screens in front of kids is booming. Apple and Google compete ferociously to get products into schools and target students at an early age, when brand loyalty begins to form. Google published a case study of its work with the Hoover City, Ala., school district, saying technology equips students “with skills of the future.” The company concluded that its own Chromebooks and Google tools changed lives: “The district leaders believe in preparing students for success by teaching them the skills, knowledge, and behaviors they need to become responsible citizens in the global community.” Dr. Freed, though, argues these tools are too relied upon in schools for low-income children. And he sees the divide every day as he meets tech-addicted children of middle and low-income families. “For a lot of kids in Antioch, those schools don’t have the resources for extracurricular activities, and their parents can’t afford nannies,” Dr. Freed said. He said the knowledge gap around tech’s danger is enormous. Dr. Freed and 200 other psychologists petitioned the American Psychological Association in August to formally condemn the work psychologists are doing with persuasive design for tech platforms that are designed for children. “Once it sinks its teeth into these kids, it’s really hard,” Dr. Freed said. 1 SARATOGA LIBRARY REPORT November 2018 Mike Eitner, Community Librarian BATTLE OF THE BOOKS Seven teams of sixth graders competed in the 2018 Battle of the Books. In the end, the Quidditch Quizzards were victorious. The Battle of the Books is a trivia contest based on six different novels. The 2018 selections were All Summer Long, The Assassin’s Curse, Clutch, Scar Island, See You in the Cosmos, Sorcery for Beginners, and The Westing Game. Beyond reading, the competition teaches participants important skills such as negotiation and teamwork. Thanks to the Children’s Department for making this event a memorable one! STATISTICS September 2017 September 2018 October 2017 October 2018 Total Circulation 91,426 96,796 88,050 93,388 Adult/Teen Circulation 47,482 49,568 45,278 48,530 Children’s Circulation 43,944 47,713 42,777 44,858 Use of OverDrive E-Books 2,255 3,919 2,447 4,117 Use of OverDrive Downloadable Audiobooks 1,273 2,226 1,232 2,228 Total Number of Programs 78 80 79 83 Programs Total Attendance 2,608 2,862 2,503 2,810 Unique WiFi Users 4,997 5,699 Unavailable 5,778 New Library Cards Issued 529 1,063 1,185 206 Door Count 37,286 34,844 34,421 35,550 Outreach Events 1 2 3 Outreach Total Attendance 90 97 252 Volunteer Hours 1,434 1,280 1,708 1,561 2 SPOTLIGHT ON DECEMBER PROGRAMS Children Festive Holiday LED Cards, Wednesday, December 5, 4:00 p.m. First to sixth graders – have fun making electrical holiday cards! Fourth to Sixth Grade Book Club, Thursday, December 6, 4:00 p.m. Let’s discuss the graphic novel version of “A Wrinkle in Time,” watch a clip from the movie, and learn how to make our own graphic novel! Sign up at the Children’s Information Desk and pick up a copy of the graphic novel. Space is limited. Robotics Fun with Dot & Dash, Saturday, December 8, 3:00 p.m. First graders to second graders – have fun learning to program our Dot & Dash robots. Because space is limited, patrons must register online. Family Sing Along, Wednesday, December 12, 4:00 p.m. Create fun memories by singing popular festive songs and enjoying a sweet treat! Holiday Craft, Tuesday, December 18, 4:00 p.m. Drop by and make fun holiday crafts! Ages 4 and up. Teen Teen Art, Friday, December 7, 3:30 p.m. Join us for a fun program and learn how to create art. Beginners and advanced teen artists welcome. Adults Wreath Making, Tuesday, December 4, 7:00 p.m. Make your own holiday wreath! Please bring one wire clothes hanger and items to decorate your wreath such as pine cones, ribbons, bows, and ornaments. Space is limited. Please sign up at the adult reference desk. For additional details about events, click on “Events” at www.sccl.org. 3 4 RECENT PROGRAMS Face Painting Trick or Treat for Comics Thank you Friends of the Saratoga Libraries for generously funding library programs and events! 1 SARATOGA LIBRARY REPORT December 2018 Mike Eitner, Community Librarian LET’S CREATE! Enjoy access to over 1,000 online art and craft video classes as well as patterns, templates, and recipes through Creativebug. Topics include art, design, sewing, quilting, paper, knitting, crochet, food, jewelry, holidays, parties as well as classes for children. Watch videos anywhere on your own device. Because the classes never expire, you are free to start and stop according to your schedule. Find Creativebug at https://creativebug.com/lib/sccl or https://www.sccl.org/emovies. STATISTICS October 2017 October 2018 November 2017 November 2018 Total Circulation 88,050 93,388 85,452 93,503 Adult/Teen Circulation 45,278 48,530 44,513 48,327 Children’s Circulation 42,777 44,858 40,939 45,176 Use of OverDrive E-Books 2,447 4,117 2,379 4,189 Use of OverDrive Downloadable Audiobooks 1,232 2,228 1,369 2,196 Total Number of Programs 79 83 52 70 Programs Total Attendance 2,503 2,810 2,977 2,263 Unique WiFi Users Unavailable 5,778 4,188 5,354 New Library Cards Issued 1,185 206 162 197 Door Count 34,421 35,550 30,145 31,050 Outreach Events 3 3 2 Outreach Total Attendance 252 106 191 Volunteer Hours 1,708 1,561 1,354 1,285 OUTREACH In November, Saratoga Library staff attended the Saratoga Area Senior Coordinating Council’s annual Health Fair and went to the Saratoga Retirement Community to discuss books with the residents. 2 SPOTLIGHT ON JANUARY PROGRAMS Children Snowglobes, Tuesday, January 8, 4:00 p.m. First to sixth graders – display your creativity by making a brilliant snowglobe! Stained Glass, Tuesday, January 15, 4:00 p.m. Third to sixth graders – showcase your artistic talent by creating a colorful work of stained glass. Graphic Novel Bookclub, Thursday, January 17, 4:00 p.m. Fourth to sixth graders – come to the children’s reference desk to register and pick up your copy of this month’s selection. Third to Fifth Grade Bookclub, Tuesday, January 29, 4:00 p.m. Borrow a copy of the scrumdiddlyumptious BFG by Roald Dahl from your local library, finish reading it by January 28, and drop by the next day at 4:00 p.m. to have a fun discussion the “Big Friendly Giant.” Music & Science Fun, Thursday, January 31, 4:00 p.m. Third to sixth graders – explore the fundamentals of sound through the vibration of metal and wood. Build your own kalimba (thumb piano) to discover the concepts of vibration, frequency, and pitch. Registration required. Teen Robotics Fair, Saturday, January 5, 2:00 p.m. Join us for a showcase of current robots presented by the robotics team of Saratoga High and other FIRST Tech Competition (FTC) teams. All ages are welcome for hands-on experience. Teen Clothing Swap, Saturday, January 19, 3:00 p.m. Tired of wearing the same stuff all the time? Bring three or more pieces of clothing and take home something new to you. Adults East Meets West: Jewels of the Maharajas, Wednesday, January 16, 11:00 a.m. Explore the cultural exchanges between Europe and India through jewelry and precious objects. San Francisco Fine Arts Museum docent Mickey Griffin describes the current Legion of Honor exhibit that runs through February 24, 2019 Rethinking Weeds, Tuesday, January 22, 7:00 p.m. If weeds had a tattoo it would be MISUNDERSTOOD. A weed to one is medicine to another. And the word weed has such a negative connotation. It is as if we need to degrade it before we eradicate it. Spend some time with Frank Niccoli to learn why weeds should have a name change to “les herbes savauges.” For additional details about events, click on “Events” at www.sccl.org. 3 4 RECENT PROGRAMS Wreath Making Teen Mason Jar Craft Thank you Friends of the Saratoga Libraries for generously funding library programs and events! FSL President's Report for Library Commission December 2018 - We held a Blind Date with a Book session at the Book-Go-Round on November 2. - The board approved a $2,500 donation to the 2019 Silicon Valley Reads program. - With Wayfinding signage installed in the Cafe Bookstore, the Wayfinding project is complete. We approved the final payment. - For the Book-Go-Round, we have changed to a better and less-expensive phone plan. The new plan also includes Internet access. - For the Book-Go-Round, we have decided to discontinue our contract with YP (Yellow Pages) and investigate other ways to publicize the store and its contents. - We have received the new Book-Go-Round outdoor sign and it should be installed soon. - On February 1, 2019, we are offering a lesson in Chinese Brush Painting, given by Woanyu Yu, our Programs chair. CITY OF SARATOGA Memorandum To: Library Commission From: Crystal Bothelio, Deputy City Manager Date: December 18, 2018 Subject: Commission Report Paint the City: Utility Box Painting Project You can apply to turn plain utility boxes into works of art through the City of Saratoga’s 2019 cycle of Paint the City: Utility Box Art Project. Through this program, a total of 5 City utility boxes will be painted by Saratoga artists. Submit your application to leave your mark on Saratoga by January 13, 2019. The program is open to Saratoga residents age 10 and older. Selected artists will receive a stipend of $400 to $600 depending on location. For more information, visit www.saratoga.ca.us/paintthecity. City Information Available in Chinese As part of an effort to make the City of Saratoga’s communications more accessible and inclusive, three key City publications have been translated into Chinese, the second most common language used in Saratoga households. So far, these materials include a Back to School information sheet, a general City fact sheet, and The Saratogan, which is the City’s annual newsletter. You can read these translated publications online at www.saratoga.ca.us/translate. City Hall Holiday Closure City Hall will be closed December 24 through January 1 for the annual holiday furlough.