The meeting began with a tour of the nearly-completed building renovation. President Jon Littlefield then called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. in the Cedar Room. Board members present were Curt Benward, Joyce Day, Steve Metz, Jeanette Owens, Larry Plews, Rondi Potter, and Gene Melton. Gene was welcomed to the Board as new City Council liaison. Marie Benton was present representing the Friends of the Coos Bay Public Library. Staff member present was Carol Ventgen.

2.    MINUTES AND CIRCULATION REPORT

3.     TREASURER’S REPORT

The February report was accepted as mailed.

There was no correspondence.

There were no public comments.

The March report was distributed, discussed and accepted as presented.

Marie reported that the March sale was cancelled and the next sale will be April 5 and 6. All items will be half-priced on Sunday with a $1 per bag sale during the last Sunday hour in the Myrtlewood Room. In response to a question, Marie said book sale proceeds average approximately $1,800 to $2,200.

a.     Phase 1 Building Project - The project is on schedule and close to budget, with two change orders adding to $2,070.21 to the $102,000 project. All is going well with the project and completion is planned for March 26. The library will open on Monday, March 31. Accent tile in the entry may not arrive in time for installation prior to opening. Shelving and furniture that is on order will not arrive in time, either.

b.     2008-2009 Library Budget – TThere is no new information on the draft budget.

c.     Immediate Building Repairs - These repairs following a plumbing leak appear to be nearing completion.

a.     Centennial Celebration Committee – It was Board consensus that this committee be appointed soon and that the entire Board participate. Representation from the Friends and Foundation will be sought, and members of the public be asked to help in various capacities. An initial organizational meeting will take place on May 22, 5:15 p.m., in the Myrtlewood Room. Curt suggested formation of a Century Club to raise money specifically for the celebration, with minimum donations of $100. Curt said he would be the first contributor and Steve said he wants to be the second. It was consensus that the library Foundation receive donations and Carol will check to see if that will meet with the Foundation Board’s approval. Curt also had other suggestions for the celebration, including: a timeline on a library wall showing significant events in the library’s history; comparisons between the first library and the current library; creation of oral history tapes recording older residents talking about the library; readings from the first books given to the library by members of the Progress Club with readers in costume, perhaps.

10.    ANNOUNCEMENTS

11.     ADJOURNMENT

Respectfully submitted,

Carol Ventgen, Secretary