HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-22-2020 Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda PacketSaratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 1 of 3
SARATOGA
LIBRARY & COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
December 22, 2020
7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
Teleconference/Public Participation Information to Mitigate the Spread of COVID‐19
This meeting will be entirely by teleconference. All Commission members, staff, and public will
only participate via the Zoom platform using the process described below. The meeting is being
conducted in compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order N‐29‐20 suspending certain
teleconference rules required by the Ralph M. Brown Act. The purpose of this order was to provide
the safest environment for the public, elected officials, and staff while allowing for continued
operation of the government and public participation during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
1. Using the Zoom website https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81091505427 or App (Webinar ID 810
9150 5427) and using the tool to raise their hand in the Zoom platform when directed by
the Chair to speak on an agenda item; OR
2. Calling 1.408.638.0968 or 1.669.900.6833, enter the Webinar ID 810 9150 5427, and
pressing *9 to raise their hand to speak on an agenda item when directed by the Chair.
The public will not be able to participate in the meeting in person.
As always, members of the public can send written comments to the Commission prior to the
meeting by commenting online at www.saratoga.ca.us/lc prior to the start of the meeting. These
emails will be provided to the members of the Commission and will become part of the official
record of the meeting. During the meeting the Chair will explain the process for members of the
public to be recognized to offer public comment.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if you
need assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact the City Clerk at
debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as soon as possible before the meeting. The City
will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility
as possible while also maintaining public safety.
Saratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 2 of 3
ROLL CALL
REPORTS
1. Saratoga Teen Advisory Board
2. Santa Clara County Library District
3. Saratoga Community Library
4. Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
5. Library Commission Chair
6. City of Saratoga
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Library Commission Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the Library Commission minutes from October 27, 2020 Regular
Meeting and November 4, 2020 Special Meeting.
2. Paint the City: Utility Box Painting Project
Recommended Action:
Receive an informational report on the Paint the City program and the Commission’s new
role in the program. No action needed.
3. 2021 Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Finalize the proposed 2021 Work Plan, for City Council consideration. Commission work
plans are typically presented to the City Council for consideration at the beginning of the
calendar year.
4. Commission Meeting Schedule
Recommended Action:
Consider changing the Commission’s regular meeting schedule.
5. Community News & Trends
Recommended Action:
Share news and trends within the community.
SUMMARIZE ACTION ITEMS
AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING
ADJOURNMENT
Saratoga Library Commission Agenda - Page 3 of 3
ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF AGENDA PACKET, &
COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
I, Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting
of the City Council was posted and available for review on December 18, 2020 at the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale
Avenue, Saratoga, California and on the City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us.
Signed this 18th day of December 2020 at Saratoga, California.
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials provided to the City Council
by City staff in connection with this agenda, copies of materials distributed to the City Council concurrently with the
posting of the agenda, and materials distributed to the City Council by staff after the posting of the agenda are available
on the City Website at www.saratoga.ca.us. Following removal of State and local shelter in place orders these materials
will be available for review in the office of the City Clerk at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California.
In Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in this meeting, please
contact the City Clerk at debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as soon as possible before the meeting. The
City will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility as possible while
also maintaining public safety. [28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA title II]
City of Saratoga
Library & Community
Engagement Commission
MEMBERSHIP
Name Term End
Robert Gulino 9/30/2021
Steven White, Monte Sereno Representative 9/30/2021
Cristina Meiser, Chair 9/30/2022
Victoria Zhang 9/30/2023
Eric Lewis, Vice Chair 9/30/2024
Others:
Annapurna Dandu, Saratoga Library | ADandu@sccl.org
David Guidry, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
Crystal Bothelio, City of Saratoga | 408.868.1269 | cbothelio@saratoga.ca.us
RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES, & RELATIONSHIPS – RESOLUTION 20-055
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Library & Community Engagement Commission shall serve as an 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 and the Santa Clara County Library. Identify and bring to the
attention of the City Council, the City staff, and the Santa Clara County Library staff (as
appropriate) current and prospective issues and questions relating to Library policies and
activities.
2. Provide counsel and recommendations to the Saratoga City Council on increasing public
engagement in City government, supporting cultural and artistic programs in the
community, and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.
3. As directed by the City Council, evaluate and assess community concerns, support City
engagement programs, and perform such other activities as may be directed by the
Saratoga City Council.
DUTIES
In carrying out its basic responsibilities, the Library & Community Engagement Commission shall
perform the following duties:
1. Hold formal meetings as required (see preceding Section on "Administration”).
2. Maintain communications with the City Council, City staff, Santa Clara County Library staff, and the Saratoga Community Librarian. 3. Serve in an advisory capacity on major engagement initiatives or policies to help create a more inclusive and engaged community, including providing support in identifying and connecting with different groups in the community (such as other governmental, educational, and non-profit organizations).
4. Maintain within the Commission a continuity of knowledge of Library operations and City
community engagement policies and strategies.
5. Keep generally informed on technical developments that could have a bearing on the Library's policies or strategies. 6. Provide support and/or advice on events related to the Library and City. 7. Work with and engage "Friends of the Saratoga Libraries", the Saratoga Teen Advisory Board, and other support groups as may be desirable concerning the Library. RELATIONSHIPS
1. The Library & Community Engagement Commission shall report to and be responsible to the Saratoga City Council. The City Manager is authorized to appoint a City staff member to serve as a liaison representative between the Council, staff and the Library & Community Engagement Commission on administrative matters.
2. The Library & Community Engagement Commission shall have no administrative authority
over Library or City operations, activities, or staff.
3. The Library Commission & Community Engagement shall have authority to call meetings,
conduct hearings, perform analysis, and make contacts with various interested parties in
carrying out its basic responsibilities.
AGENDA PLANNER
The Commission holds regular meetings on the 4th Tuesday of even-numbered months at 7:00
p.m. at the Saratoga Library and may schedule special meetings or cancel meetings as needed.
MEETING AGENDA ITEMS REPORTS
February 25, 2020 • Minutes
• Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
• Commission Handbook
• Finalize 2020 Work Plan
• 2020 Regular Meeting Schedule
• New Library District Website
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Chair
• City
March 9, 2020
6:00 p.m.
Commission Work Plan Study Session
Saratoga Senior Center, 19655 Allendale Avenue
April 28, 2020 • Minutes
• Commission Work Plan Study Session Debrief
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Chair
• City
June 23, 2020 • Minutes
• Library Commission Scope & Work Plan
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items • Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Chair
• City
August 25, 2020 • Minutes
• Commission Scope & Work Plan Update
• Overview of City Community Engagement Efforts
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Chair
• City
October 27, 2020 • Minutes
• Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
• Consider 2021 Work Plan
• Selection of Representative to Public Art Committee
• Rainy Day Poetry
• December Meeting Date
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Chair
• City
November 4, 2020 4:00 p.m. Special Meeting
• Rainy Day Poetry
December 22, 2020 • Community News & Trends
• Minutes (10/27/20 & 11/4/20)
• Overview of Paint the City
• Finalize 2021 Work Plan
• 2021 Meeting Schedule
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Chair
• City
2020 LIBRARY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION WORK PLAN (REVISED 8/19/20)
KEY POINTS OF WORK PLAN
1. Support and promote library events and programs; engage in information sharing with and between the Library and the public.
2. Identify and recommend strategies to help foster a strong, more inclusive community, including the following activities:
a. Partner with local organizations, including West Valley College. b. Increase public engagement in City government.
c. Assess community concerns as directed by the City Council. d. Support Library and City engagement programs. with other local events and
organizations, including West Valley College 3. Help increase the number of residents with library cards.
TOPICS IN DETAIL 1. Support and promote library events and programs; engage in information sharing with and between the Library and the public. a) Attend library events as Commissioners and/or participants (e.g. Silicon Valley Reads programs, trivia events, etc.). b) Volunteer to assist library staff at library events (for example, Junior Achievement). c) Volunteer at outreach programs (e.g. Saturday Farmers Market, Movie Nights,
Blossom Festival) to increase number of card holders.
d) Invite the City Council to attend and share information with the City Council about
Library and Library Commission programs, events, and activities.
e) Spread awareness of Library events and offerings via Commissioner personal
networks and encourage attendance (for example, post in Nextdoor Saratoga, post
on Facebook page, inform Book Clubs, etc.).
f) Brainstorm with Director of County Library Communication and Marketing on ways
to promote Library events and programs.
g) Write an article for Saratoga Source (monthly e-newsletter) or Saratoga News to
feature library program(s).
h) Provide recommendations to library staff at Commission meetings. This would
include current trends in the community, ideas for programs that our community may be interested in (e.g. 3D printing), and upcoming community events where outreach might occur. i) Attend annual Friends and Commissioner forum. j) Interact with other County Library Commissions and JPA, when appropriate.
k) Work with Friends of the Saratoga Libraries to promote and cross-promote events
and activities.
2. Identify and recommend strategies to help foster a stronger, more inclusive community, including the following activities. a) Support collaborative programs or activities between local organizations, such as West Valley College, and the Library and/or the City. b) Advise the City Council on matters of interest to the Saratoga community, as directed by the City Council. c) Support and provide recommendations to the City Council on City engagement
programs and policies, including Community Event Grant Program allocations.
d) Support public art programs sponsored by the City’s Public Art Committee.
e) Recommend programs and policies that will help create a stronger, more inclusive
community.
3. Help increase the number of residents with library cards
a) Volunteer at outreach programs.
b) Target Monte Sereno residents.
SCCLD County Librarian Report
November 2020
3
Lobby Services Available
Expanding In-person Services
•All seven community libraries are offering lobby self-service
•Pick up holds, browse a limited collection of new books, movies and bestsellers, use the new self-check machines for contactless service
•Grade based and genre focused book bundles available
•Lobby hours vary by location and differ from curbside hours. Sccld.org/curbside
•Social distancing guidelines:
•Limited to 10 minutes
•Wear a face covering to enter
•Maintain 6 ft distance from others
•Use hand sanitizer
4
Every Vote Counts
•All SCCLD libraries offer ballot drop boxes
(Cupertino is in front of City Hall)
•Milpitas Library and the Services and Support Center
are voting centers Sat-Tue, Oct 31-Nov 3
5
Key Services Offered by SCCLD
Mar-May Jun-Aug Sep-Nov
Reference and Account
services via phone/chat/email
M-Sa
Virtual programs for all ages
M-Sa
Official cooling center Official cooling/clean air center
County Disaster Service
Workers/ Contact Tracers
Website redesign to make
digital content/events easily
accessible
Deploy new phone system
and laptops for telework
Curbside service (drive up, walk
up, returns) M-Sa
Lobby service plus curbside
service M-Sa
Free public WiFi in parking lots
Career Online High School
Official cooling/clean air center
Emergency Evacuation
Resource Center
Computer access M-Sa
Homework help free tutoring
M-Th
Voter ballot drop off location/SSC
Voting center
6
October by the Numbers
3,733 curbside appointments
286,903 physical items checked out and
286,680 items returned
73 virtual programs; 2,266 live views &
over 3,749 total views
125,106 eBooks circulated
7
Words of Appreciation
“First off just a huge, huge thank you for keeping our family sane with curbside pickup! We use Campbell most often and gettin g new books every week have been a
bright spot in our week…Our family is continuing to be very careful even though things are opening up so I hope that curbside service will still be a vailable for the duration
of the pandemic. Again thank you for all you have done and are doing! You are heroes to us.”
“I have never experienced the "book bundle" idea before, and saw a sign at Los Altos library advertising it. I just picked on e up for my kids, and
we just love the surprise of a preselected bundle! I am not sure if this always existed, but it's a great idea to cut down on the overwhelm I feel
as a parent trying to choose a few books for the kids. We love being given a pre -chosen bundle! It makes me check out books that I wouldn't
have considered. Please keep these going, post-covid too! Thank you!”
“Kudos!! Top marks!! Your website for dealing with book and CD -music pickups during this covid -19 lockdown deserves top marks. K udos to all responsible
for setting this up. Very good job and thank you!!”
“…Please tell all at SCCLD how much they are appreciated for ALL they do and are doing both "before" and during this ever changing COVID time.
One "take away" of many that we all are learning is how much we love and appreciate our libraries. As a retired H.S. teacher and life-long lover of
libraries it felt so sad to see all libraries shuttered for a time. Happily through careful, clever, dedicated staff they are reopening with adaptive, safe
methods to help their patrons utilize libraries as much as is safely possible again. Again many thanks for your responsive, enthusiastic,
knowledgeable and cheerful insights and service.”
8
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 2020
Library Stakeholder Report
Jennifer Weeks, County Librarian
Lobby Self-Service Available at all Seven Community Libraries
SCCLD continues to offer safe and
timely public services in accordance
with Santa Clara County’s
regulations and the state’s Blueprint
for a Safer Economy. Currently, all
seven community libraries are
offering lobby self-service where
patrons can enter into the lobby of
the library to pick up their holds,
browse a limited collection of new
books, movies and bestsellers, and
use the new self-check machines for
contactless service.
Another service that has been appreciated by our patrons is offering grade based and genre focused
book bundles. Parents and caregivers can easily pick up additional books for their young readers.
Lobby visits are limited to 10 minutes and do not require an appointment. Visitors are required to follow
social distancing guidelines including maintaining 6 ft distance from others, wearing a face covering,
and using hand sanitizer made available by the Library District. Lobby hours vary by location and differ
from curbside hours. For a complete list, visit sccld.org/curbside.
Every Vote Counts
Did you know, SCCLD libraries work closely with the
County Registrar of Voters (ROV) as official ballot drop off
locations? ROV recognizes that libraries are community
hubs and trusted sources of information. In addition, the
Milpitas Library and our Service and Support Center
located in Campbell provided additional community
services as an official voting center from Saturday-Tue, Oct
31-Nov 2.
Just another way our County Libraries continue to go above
and beyond.
9
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
Snapshot of Key Services Provided by SCCLD
Since Santa Clara County implemented
Shelter-in-Place in March, SCCLD has
quickly shifted gears to deliver creative,
highly-valued services to our communities in
safe, and thoughtful ways. Below are some
of the highlights of the various public services
we have implemented starting in the
timeframe shown below.
Mar-May Jun-Aug Sep-Nov
Reference and Account
services via phone/chat/email
M-Sa
Virtual programs for all ages
M-Sa
Official cooling center Official cooling/clean air center
County Disaster Service
Workers/ Contact Tracers
Website redesign to make
digital content/events easily
accessible
Deploy new phone system
and laptops for telework
Curbside service (drive up, walk
up, returns) M-Sa
Lobby service plus curbside
service M-Sa
Free public WiFi in parking lots
Career Online High School
Official cooling/clean air center
Emergency Evacuation
Resource Center
Computer access M-Sa
Homework help free tutoring
M-Th
Voter ballot drop off location/SSC
Voting center
10
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
October by the Numbers
The Library District continues to serve our patrons in many ways and the numbers show just how much
they are enjoying their local library:
3,733 curbside appointments: Our curbside appointments have decreased significantly as our
walkup service transitioned into lobby service where no appointments are necessary.
286,903 physical items checked out and 286,680 items returned: We experienced a double-
digit increase in items checked out (18%) and returned (19%)
73 Virtual Programs = 2,166 Live Views and over 3,749 Total Views: Our total number of
programs increased by 9% in October with an increase of 16% in total views.
125,106 eBooks circulated: Our ebooks continue to be extremely popular as they will
disappear automatically from your device on the due date. No trips to the library needed and
you can renew online if the item is eligible for renewal.
Words of Appreciation
In a year that has been wrought with many challenges, in addition to the pandemic, its important to take
a moment to listen to words of appreciation from library patrons. Here are a few of our favorites:
“I have never experienced the "book bundle" idea before, and saw a sign at Los Altos library
advertising it. I just picked one up for my kids, and we just love the surprise of a preselected
bundle! I am not sure if this always existed, but it's a great idea to cut down on the overwhelm I
feel as a parent trying to choose a few books for the kids. We love being given a pre-chosen bundle!
It makes me check out books that I wouldn't have considered. Please keep these going, post-covid
too! Thank you!”
“Kudos!! Top marks!! Your website for dealing with book and CD-music pickups during this covid-19
lockdown deserves top marks. Kudos to all responsible for setting this up. Very good job and thank
you!!”
“…Please tell all at SCCLD how much they are appreciated for ALL they do and are doing
both "before" and during this ever changing COVID time. One "take away" of many that we all
11
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
are learning is how much we love and appreciate our libraries. As a retired H.S. teacher and
life-long lover of libraries it felt so sad to see all libraries shuttered for a time. Happily through
careful, clever, dedicated staff they are reopening with adaptive, safe methods to help their
patrons utilize libraries as much as is safely possible again. Again many thanks for your
responsive, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and cheerful insights and service.”
12
SCCLD County Librarian Report
December 2020
13
Introducing Auto-Renewal
•Physical item(s) eligible for renewal will automatically
renew and notification will be sent
•Number of renewal times increased to five
•Items not eligible for renewal:
•ILL materials
•Items with more holds than available copies
•Items borrowed the maximum amount of times (five)
•Visit the website for the complete list.
14
Silicon Valley Reads 2021
Theme: Connecting
•Covid-19 forced a “new normal” with connections more important than ever
•Each book approaches “connecting” from a different vantage point including nature, music, food,
animals, books and relationships
•Virtual events for all ages
•Kickoff Event: Thursday, Jan 28, 2021
15
Silicon Valley Reads 2021
Featured Titles
Companion Books
www.siliconvalleyreads.org
16
SCCLD Priorities -Current
Purple –in progress
In planning
Implemented
17
SCCLD Priorities -Emerging
18
Save the Date
•Thursday, Jan 28, 2021 at 12pmJoint Powers Authority
Board Meeting
•Thursday, Jan 28, 2021 at TBDSVR Kickoff Event
•Saturday, Feb 6, 2021 at 9am
18th Annual Friends,
Foundations,
Endowment, and
Commissioners Forum
19
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 2020
Library Stakeholder Report
Jennifer Weeks, County Librarian
Introducing Auto-Renewal
SCCLD is continuously researching ways to
make library services even more convenient for
our patrons. A new feature coming Dec. 1 is
material auto-renewal. If you have a physical
item checked out that is eligible for renewal,
your item(s) will automatically renew and a
notification with the new due date will be sent.
In addition, SCCLD has increased the number
of possible renewal times to five. Please note
that some items are not eligible for renewal
including Interlibrary Loan materials, items with
more holds than available copies, or items that
have been borrowed the maximum amount of
times (five). Check the website for the complete list.
Silicon Valley Reads
2021
Covid-19 upended the world at
the beginning of 2020, and a
new normal is ever evolving.
As we adjust to the changes,
we are valuing, more than
ever, our relationships. Our
connections with each other
and with things that provide
comfort give us a sense of
security in a world that
sometimes feels out of control.
Silicon Valley Reads 2021 features a selection of books centered on this theme of “Connecting” – the
universal human ability to build resilience by looking for people, places and things that provide comfort
and joy during tough times. Each book approaches the concept of connecting from a different vantage
point such as nature, music, food, animals, books and relationships. We hope that through these
books, everyone can find a connection and enhance their sense of well-being.
20
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
There are virtual events for all ages planned centered around the theme of Connecting.
The virtual kickoff event is scheduled for Thursday, January 28. Details will be forthcoming. Visit
www.siliconvalleyreads.org for more information.
21
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
SCCLD Priorities
SCCLD continues to stay focused on providing critical and relevant library services in this ever-
changing environment. As we close out the calendar year, here is a snapshot of the priorities guiding
our work.
CURRENT PRIORITIES
EMERGING PRIORITIES
22
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
Save the Date:
Library Joint Powers Authority Board meeting: Thursday, January 28, 2021 at 12pm
Silicon Valley Reads Kickoff Event: Thursday, January 28, 2021 at TBD
18th Annual Friends, Foundations, Endowment & Commissioners Forum: Saturday, February
6, 2021 at 9am (Virtual) – By invitation only
Adapt & Adopt: Strategies for Success
Special Guest Presenter: Carol Novello – Founder of Mutual Rescue: Board Alumni Ambassador
and former President of Humane Society Silicon Valley
23
Saratoga Library Report
December 2020
Annapurna Dandu, Community Librarian
Month Number of Borrowers Number of Check-Ins Number of Checkouts
October 5,172 21,479 23,323
November 4,195 21,908 20,715
January 2021 Events
Note: All of the programs are virtual and will be accessible via Facebook and/or Zoom.
For details on a specific program or to register for a program (if applicable), please go to
www.sccld.org/events.
Adults
Online English Conversation Club
Every Thursday, 11:00 AM to 12:15 PM
Practice English at an online English Conversation Club session! Meet new friends and learn
English together. Registration is required for each session. You will receive a Zoom link after
registration and before each session. There will be no English Conversation Club on December
24 and 31. It will resume in the new year.
RSVP: https://sccld.org/esl/?_ga=2.103992384.1567414986.1603730611-
1574031980.1586980076
Online Book Club: Packing for Mars by Mary Roach
Monday, January 4, 2021, 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
The Book Club will discuss Packing for Mars by Mary Roach. The meeting will be hosted virtually
using Zoom. Please register online to receive the Zoom link.
RSVP: https://sccl.bibliocommons.com/events/5fc2add6fc38cd4500b259bc
Weekly Virtual Film Discussion
Saturdays, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Good films, great discussion, all from the comforts of home! Join a lively group for a weekly
discussion on a film watched through Kanopy the library's premier choice for streaming films
and documentaries with over 30,000 to select from.
January 2: Marie Curie: More than Meets the Eye -RSVP
January 9: The Longevity Film -RSVP
January 16: Odette Toulemonde -RSVP
January 23: Digital Disconnect - Fake News, Privacy and Democracy -RSVP
January 30: The Phone Call -RSVP
Teens
24
Teen Coffeehouse:
Friday, January 29, 6 PM
Teens: join us for our first virtual Coffeehouse, our teen open mic night. Sing a song, recite your
poetry, play an instrument. This event will be broadcast on Facebook live. Sign up to perform
here: www.tinyurl.com/performSA
Children
Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra Concert
Saturday, January 30, 2021 from 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Zoom registration required. All ages are welcome.
Battle of the Books Trivia Contest
Saturday, January 30, 2021 from 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
All grades are welcome; highly suitable for 4th-7th graders.
Zoom registration required.
Weekly Story-time program schedule (streamed via Facebook, no registration required):
Mondays: Family story-time 11:00 – 11:30am
Tuesdays: Family story-time 11:00 – 11:30am
Wednesdays: Baby story-time 11:00 – 11:20am
Thursdays: Spanish/English story-time 11:00 – 11:30am
Fridays: Mandarin/English story-time 11:00 – 11:30am
Art Programs for school-age children will be conducted on the first and third Tuesdays of each
month from 4:00-4:45 pm. Zoom registration is required.
Science Programs for school-age children will be conducted on the second and fourth Tuesdays
of each month from 4:00 – 4:45 pm. Zoom registration is required.
25
FSL President's Report for Library Commission December 2020
- Our Retail Store Manager was exposed to Covid recently, which required us to close the store
temporarily and delay our Good-As-New sale, but we are back up and running now after a quarantine
and negative test result.
- Due to the recent shelter-in-place and overall issues with Covid, we are able to keep the BGR open,
but at a dramatically reduced capacity. This has also really limited our ability to accept and sort new
donations so that we are having a difficult time maintaining good inventories on the shelves.
- Despite this, we have great support from our volunteers and customers who have both really been
up for following the rules and keeping everyone safe. I haven’t seen the latest store numbers and
though they will certainly be lower, it is likely not as bad as it could have been.
- We have also had regular Friends Sharing books events, over Zoom, and its been great to chat with
others about some of the recent books, and other media, they have read.
- Membership renewals, and new sign-ups continue to come in, including a few during the opening of
our Good-As-New sale where we had a members-only time at the beginning of the event.
Respectfully submitted,
David Guidry
President, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
==
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CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Library & Community Engagement Commission
From: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Date: December 22, 2020
Subject: Commission Report
City Council Reorganization
On December 15, the City Council conducted its annual Reorganization. During the meeting, the
City Council recognized outgoing Mayor Howard Miller and former Mayor and Council Member
Manny Cappello. New City Council Members Tina Walia and Kookie Fitzsimmons were sworn in
and welcomed to the City Council. Additionally, the City Council appointed Yan Zhao as Mayor
and Tina Walia as Vice Mayor.
SED Talks – TED Talks, Saratoga Style if you missed SED Talks—TED Talks, Saratoga style—you can still hear the three speakers! The Saratoga Youth Commission and the Library's Teen Advisory Board hosted this event to share first-hand experiences and expert advice about various teen-centered topics, from life skills to mental health. You can watch the video online at https://youtu.be/lS1JrpIa4Bc Winter Craft Social for Individuals with Disabilities The Saratoga City Council recognized December 3 as People with Disabilities Day to raise awareness and understanding of disabilities, including those that are not always visible, and to
encourage a more inclusive society. The Saratoga community values providing inclusive
opportunities, like Dances for Individuals with Disabilities. The Saratoga Youth Commission will
host a free, virtual Holiday Craft Social for Individuals with Disabilities on Saturday, December 19
from 2:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Registration is required, and participation is limited. Please visit
www.saratoga.ca.us/craft to register early.
Paint the City Applications Open
Saratoga artists are invited to submit their application to turn plain utility boxes into works of art!
Through the City's Paint the City program, 3 more utility boxes will be painted by Saratoga artists.
Saratoga residents ages 10 and older can submit applications by January 31, 2021. For information
about the process, or to get inspired by previous designs, visit www.saratoga.ca.us/paintthecity
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Youth Commission YouTube Series
Watch Episode 1 of the Saratoga Youth Commission's YouTube Series, Saratoga Speaks. The
Commission created this YouTube Series to raise youth awareness about local and global events, and this episode features a recap of teens' experiences during 2020. Future Housing in Saratoga Every 8 years, California Cities are required to update their Housing Element to plan for projected housing needs at all income levels. A key component of this process is the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA).
The State has determined 441,176 new housing units need to be constructed in the Bay Area
between 2023 and 2031. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) has developed a
methodology to distribute this number among each of the Cities and Counties in the Bay Area
beginning in Spring 2021. Based on ABAG’s draft methodology, we are expecting Saratoga’s
RHNA to be approximately 2,100 new units. This is an increase compared to the City’s last RHNA
of 439 units.
ABAG is hosting two webinars to present the Draft RHNA Methodology:
Friday, December 18 from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m.
Zoom: http://bit.ly/34kghYI Passcode: 464959
Tuesday, January 5 from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.
Zoom: http://bit.ly/2KC6C8D Passcode: 011333
Please stay engaged with the City throughout this important process! We will continue to share
information and ways you can get involved, ask questions, and share your feedback. For more
information, visit www.saratoga.ca.us/RHNA
COVID-19 Updates Santa Clara County adopted a Regional Stay at Home Order in early December to protect the region’s ICU capacity and prevent it from reaching a critical point. On December 15, the region’s ICU capacity fell below 15% triggering the State’s Stay at Home requirements, which will extend through January 7. Everyone is encouraged to only leave their home for essential activities. When you must go out, wear a face mask, maintain social distance, and wash your hands often. The most current information about the order is available on the County Public Health Department website. Additionally, earlier this month the County received and started administering the first COVID-19
vaccines to frontline hospital workers in ICU and emergency departments. Information about the
vaccines and their deployment in Santa Clara County is available on the County website. Free COVID-19 testing is available at locations throughout the County. Testing offered at the
County Fairgrounds and rotating city sites also includes a test for influenza. The County will hold
a COVID-19 testing day in Saratoga on Thursday, January 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the
Saratoga Prospect Center in Friendship Hall, 19848 Prospect Road. Make your appointment as
early as 7 days in advance at https://direc.to/eyD1
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Saratoga Library Commission Minutes - Page 1 of 4
MINUTES
SARATOGA LIBRARY COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 27, 2020 CALL TO ORDER Chair Robert Gulino called the virtual meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Robert Gulino, Vice Chair Cristina Meiser, Commissioner Eric Lewis,
Steven White, Victoria Zhang Absent: None Also Present: Chris Brown, Annapurna Dandu, David Guidry, Lauren Suitoso, Viraaj Reddi, Kayla Nakamoto, Lauren Pettipiece, Crystal Bothelio
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
None
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Library Commission Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the Library Commission minutes from August 25, 2020 meeting.
MEISER/ZHANG MOVED TO APPROVE THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES FROM
AUGUST 25, 2020 MEETING WITH A CORRECTION INDICATING THAT CHAIR ROBERT GULINO WAS NOT PRESENT FOR THE VOTE ON AGENDA ITEM 1. MOTION PASSED. AYES: GULINO, LEWIS, MEISER, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: WHITE. ABSENT: NONE. 2. Saratoga Library Teen Advisory Board Report Recommended Action: Receive report from the Teen Advisory Board. Teen Advisory Board Co-Presidents Lauren Suitoso and Viraaj Reddi shared an update on
recent and upcoming activities, including formation of several committees, Crafernoon,
SED Talks, Coffehouse, and Battle of the Books.
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Saratoga Library Commission Minutes - Page 2 of 4
3. Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
Recommended Action:
Select new Chair and Vice Chair to serve October 2019 through September 2020. The Chair and Vice Chair serve a term of 1 year. Each Commissioner may only serve as Chair or Vice Chair once during a 4-year term on the Commission. GULINO/WHITE MOVED TO NOMINATE CRISTINA MEISER AS CHAIR AND ERIC LEWIS AS VICE CHAIR. MOTION PASSED. AYES: GULINO, LEWIS, MEISER, WHITE, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. 4. Selection of Representative to Public Art Committee
Recommended Action: Select a member of the Commission to serve as a representative to the Public Art Committee.
GULINO/LEWIS SELECTED CRISTINA MEISER AS THE LIBRARY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE TO THE PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE.
MOTION PASSED. AYES: GULINO, LEWIS, MEISER, WHITE, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN:
NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
5. Rainy Day Poetry
Recommended Action:
Recommend 4 poetry selections to the Public Art Committee for the next cycle of the Rainy
Day Poetry Program.
Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst, presented a report on Rainy Day Poetry and
requested recommended poetry selections for Public Art Committee consideration.
The Commission discussed the challenges of recommending poetry to be used in the program, opportunities for community involvement in the selection, criteria for poem selection, timeline for the Commission’s recommendations, and some of the poems that could be recommended. The Commission agreed to hold a special meeting on November 4 at 4:00 p.m. to consider and finalize poetry recommendations. Commissioners were invited to send poetry suggestions to staff in advance of the meeting.
6. 2021 Work Plan
Recommended Action: Begin development of the proposed 2021 Work Plan, for City Council consideration. Commission work plans are typically presented to the City Council for consideration at the
beginning of the calendar year.
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Saratoga Library Commission Minutes - Page 3 of 4
The Commission agreed to revisit the work plan at the next meeting.
7. December Meeting Date Recommended Action: Consider whether to reschedule the Library Commission’s December meeting, which is currently scheduled for December 22, 2020. The Commission agreed to keep the regular meeting scheduled for December 22. 8. Community News & Trends
Recommended Action:
Share news and trends within the community.
Commissioner Gulino shared his observations related to Zoom fatigue.
REPORTS Next meeting make reports earlier 1. Santa Clara County Library District
Chris Brown, Deputy County Librarian, shared updates on curbside pickup and reopening
of Library lobbies, investments in digital materials, virtual services, and ballot drop boxes
at County Libraries.
2. Saratoga Community Library
Annapurna Dandu, Community Librarian, shared information about lobby services.
3. Friends of the Saratoga Libraries David Guidry, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries President, shared updates on operations of the Book-Go-Round, Friends book sale, book donations, and the new website. 4. Library Commission Chair Robert Gulino spoke on his service as Chair. 5. City of Saratoga Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager, shared updates on the State of the City, COVID-
19 testing, and free flu shots.
Lauren Pettipiece, Public Information Officer, shared information about how the City is
using video to reimagine some of the City’s events, such as the Saratoga to Sea Trail
ribbon cutting and Tree Lighting.
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Saratoga Library Commission Minutes - Page 4 of 4
SUMMARIZE ACTION ITEMS
The Commission agreed to send suggestions for Rainy Day Sidewalk Poetry by November 3 and review the work plan in December. AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING - Rainy Day Sidewalk Poetry will be considered at a Special Meeting on November 4 - Commission Work Plan will be considered at the December meeting
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Robert Gulino adjourned the meeting at 8:38 p.m.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
City of Saratoga
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Saratoga Library Commission Minutes - Page 1 of 1
MINUTES
SARATOGA LIBRARY COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING NOVEMBER 4, 2020 CALL TO ORDER Chair Cristina Meiser called the virtual meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Chair Cristina Meiser, Vice Chair Eric Lewis, Commissioners Robert Gulino, Steven White, Victoria Zhang
Absent: None Also Present: Kayla Nakamoto, Crystal Bothelio AGENDA ITEMS
1. Rainy Day Sidewalk Poetry
Recommended Action:
Recommend 4 poems to the Public Art Committee to be used as part of the next cycle of
the Rainy Day Sidewalk Poetry Program.
Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst, introduced the item.
The Commission discussed possible poems to use and where they felt they would be best
placed.
GULINO/LEWIS MOVED TO RECOMMEND THE FOLLOWING POETRY AND PLACEMENT
SUGGESTIONS TO THE PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE FOR CONSIDERATION: SONGS FOR
THE PEOPLE BY FRANCES ELLEN WATKINS HARPER STANZA 1 AND 2 AT SARATOGA LIBRARY; THE ROAD NOT TAKEN BY ROBERT FROST STANZA 4 AT THE VILLAGE CLOCK; SPRING DAWN BY MENG HAORAN TRANSLATED BY BETTY TSENG ON CITY SIDEWALK OUTSIDE HONG’S GOURMET IN THE VILLAGE; STILL I RISE BY MAYA ANGELOU STANZA 6 ON CITY SIDEWALK OUTSIDE OF SUE’S CAFÉ. MOTION PASSED. AYES: GULINO, LEWIS, MEISER, WHITE, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Meiser adjourned the meeting at 4:37 p.m.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
City of Saratoga
33
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Library & Community Engagement Commission
From: Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst
Date: December 22, 2020
Subject: Paint the City 2021 Overview
The Paint the City program began in 2018 and has been an annual Public Art Program
since. This program invites Saratoga residents to submit their application and conceptual
artwork to be considered. In past years, once the application period closed, the Public Art
Committee would review the applications that met the program criteria and select up to
3 submissions per utility box location. The top selections were then made available on
the City’s website for the public to participate by voting for their favorite design per
location. Artwork that receives the most votes is then presented to the City Council to
authorize acceptance.
One of the Library & Community Engagement’s new duties includes supporting the City’s
Public Art Committee. The Public Art Committee is requesting the Library & Community
Engagement Commission participate in Paint the City by recommending up to 3
conceptual designs per utility box for the 2021 cycle of Paint the City. Applications for
the program will be open to the public through January 31, 2021 and qualifying
applications will be presented to the Library & Community Engagement Commission for
review at the February 23, 2020 meeting.
Artist(s) must reside in Saratoga and be at least 10 years old (groups of artists that meet
these requirements will be considered). Artist(s) may only submit one application per
utility box location. Artists selected during the 2020 Paint the City cycle will not be
considered as part of the 2021 program. Artists that are selected will be eligible to receive
a stipend of $600. There are 3 locations in the Paint the City program for 2021. These
include:
- Quito & Pollard
- Saratoga & Scotland
- Saratoga & Cox
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Artwork should reflect the history, heritage, culture, geography, or neighborhood or area
where the box is located. Artwork must cover the entire box, not including handles or box
identification markers. The lower right corner of the back panel will be reserved for the
artist name(s). Entries must be the original design of the applicant(s) and suitable for
viewing by all ages.
Artwork may not contain political statements or symbols; religious references or symbols;
profane or offensive content; graffiti-like style artwork; copyrighted or trademarked
material; or corporate or organizational references, branding, or symbols.
A timeline of the overall 2021 Paint the City program is below.
Milestone Timing
Application Period November 2020 – January 31, 2021
Library & Community Engagement Commission
Top 3 Recommendation
February 23, 2021
Public Art Committee Consideration of Top 3
Designs
March 16, 2021
Public Voting March 29, 2021 – April 18, 2021
Public Art Committee Recommendation on Final
Artwork
April 20, 2021
City Council Acceptance of Artwork May 5, 2021
Artist Coordination May 2021
Utility Box Painting May 2021 – June 30, 2021
35
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Library & Community Engagement Commission
From: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Date: December 22, 2020
Subject: 2021 Commission Work Plan
Every year, the City Council considers and authorizes Commission work plans. Commission work
plans are usually presented to the City Council for consideration at the beginning of the calendar
year. Most Commissions also share a progress report on Commission work efforts when
presenting proposed work plans.
This item has been added to the December meeting agenda to provide the Commission with the
opportunity to finalize its recommended 2021 work plan and identify highlights of 2020 work
efforts.
The revised 2020 Commission work plan and draft highlights of 2020 work efforts are attached.
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2020 LIBRARY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION WORK EFFORTS
In 2020, the Library & Community Engagement (LCE) participated in several projects and programs. Perhaps most significant of these was reviewing the Commission scope and
proposing a change that expanded the scope of the Commission to include community engagement. The City Council considered and adopted the change in August 2020.
Additionally, the Commission provided input on the new Santa Clara County Library District website, provided recommendations to the Public Art Committee on poetry
selections and placement for the Rainy Day Sidewalk Poetry Program, and assigned one member to serve as an advisory member on the Public Art Committee.
2020 LIBRARY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION WORK PLAN
(REVISED 8/19/20)
KEY POINTS OF WORK PLAN
1. Support and promote library events and programs; engage in information sharing with
and between the Library and the public. 2. Identify and recommend strategies to help foster a strong, more inclusive community,
including the following activities: a. Partner with local organizations, including West Valley College.
b. Increase public engagement in City government. c. Assess community concerns as directed by the City Council.
d. Support Library and City engagement programs. with other local events and organizations, including West Valley College
3. Help increase the number of residents with library cards.
TOPICS IN DETAIL
1. Support and promote library events and programs; engage in information sharing with and
between the Library and the public.
a) Attend library events as Commissioners and/or participants (e.g. Silicon Valley Reads
programs, trivia events, etc.).
b) Volunteer to assist library staff at library events (for example, Junior Achievement).
c) Volunteer at outreach programs (e.g. Saturday Farmers Market, Movie Nights, Blossom
Festival) to increase number of card holders.
d) Invite the City Council to attend and share information with the City Council about Library and Library Commission programs, events, and activities.
37
e) Spread awareness of Library events and offerings via Commissioner personal networks
and encourage attendance (for example, post in Nextdoor Saratoga, post on Facebook
page, inform Book Clubs, etc.). f) Brainstorm with Director of County Library Communication and Marketing on ways to promote Library events and programs. g) Write an article for Saratoga Source (monthly e-newsletter) or Saratoga News to feature library program(s). h) Provide recommendations to library staff at Commission meetings. This would include current trends in the community, ideas for programs that our community may be interested in (e.g. 3D printing), and upcoming community events where outreach
might occur.
i) Attend annual Friends and Commissioner forum.
j) Interact with other County Library Commissions and JPA, when appropriate.
k) Work with Friends of the Saratoga Libraries to promote and cross-promote events and
activities.
2. Identify and recommend strategies to help foster a stronger, more inclusive community,
including the following activities.
a) Support collaborative programs or activities between local organizations, such as West
Valley College, and the Library and/or the City.
b) Advise the City Council on matters of interest to the Saratoga community, as directed by
the City Council. c) Support and provide recommendations to the City Council on City engagement programs and policies, including Community Event Grant Program allocations. d) Support public art programs sponsored by the City’s Public Art Committee. e) Recommend programs and policies that will help create a stronger, more inclusive community. 3. Help increase the number of residents with library cards a) Volunteer at outreach programs.
b) Target Monte Sereno residents.
38
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Library & Community Engagement Commission
From: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Date: December 22, 2020
Subject: Commission Meeting Schedule
The Library & Community Engagement Commission (LCE) has been holding its regular meetings
on the 2nd Tuesday of every other month at 7:00 p.m. With the expansion of the Commission’s
scope, staff is recommending that the Commission change its regular meeting schedule to avoid
conflicts with other Commissions and community organizations. Staff has provided some
suggested meeting options for the Commission to consider below. Additionally, the Commission
may consider an alternative meeting start time. Changes adopted by the Commission would take
effective in 2021.
• Option 1: 1st Monday of every other month
• Option 2: 1st Thursday of every other month
• Option 3: 2nd Monday of every other month
• Option 4: 3rd Thursday of every other month
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