McClelland: PCPL continues to think ahead

Being the main order of business for the Putnam Public Library’s board of trustees, the library’s budget for 2021 was unanimously adopted Wednesday evening.

Besides this, PCPL Director Matt McClelland presented an optimistic report on improvements and the library in being able to provide services to patrons.

McClelland provided that patrons in general have been understanding of the mask requirements and other limited restrictions still in place. He noted that the library is open to public browsing.

McClelland added that delays in materials being available after previous use have been because they still show “Checked out” while in quarantine. He also provided that recent studies have suggested that the virus can live longer on stacked materials.

The REopening Archives, Libraries and Museums (REALM) Project provided earlier this month that COVID-19 could still be detected on hardcover books, paperback books, plastic protective covers and DVD cases after six days in quarantine.

As to improvements, McClelland said New Leaf Construction had done a “phenomenal job” with repairs to the Carnegie and circulation entrances, as well as replacing an office door. The construction was recently completed.

He also stated that updating or otherwise completing revamping the library’s obituary database was being looked at.

Moving forward, McClelland said PCPL’s upcoming launch of its Library of Things had received positive feedback from the community. He owed getting it off the ground as being a “real team effort” among staff, adding that interest has also come out of local reporting of the kickoff event set for Oct. 1.

McClelland also noted the library being unable to hold its annual Touch-a-Truck event this year. With this being PCPL’s major fundraising effort for Imagination Library, he said other options to make up for it were being considered.

Board President Kayla Flegal commented to McClelland that his recent reports have been “uplifting rather than just informational,” saying they show that the library is continuing to serve its patrons.

In other business:

• The board adopted a resolution promoting Amber Compton to a full-time Adult Reference manager.

• Treasurer Lisa Barker reported that PCPL’s remaining budget is “still very strong.” She attributed this to being “very frugal” with expenditures.

• McClelland announced that Friends of Libraries Week will be coming up in October. The week recognizes groups like the Friends of the Putnam County Public Library.

The next regular meeting of the Library Board is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 28.