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GCPL Discusses Lobbying Efforts to Restore Historical State Funding Mechanism

Geauga County Public Library (GCPL) - April 15, 2025

Meeting: The GCPL Board met on Tuesday, April 15th at 4:00 pm at the West Geauga Branch. This Board Meeting was in-person with a virtual attendance option. To access the virtual option see information here.  The meeting was not recorded. Minutes of this meeting will be posted on the GCPL website after they are approved at the May 20, 2025 meeting.

Public Comment: Permitted and included in the regular order of business per GCPL bylaws. Further clarified in Policy 215 - Public Participation at Board Meetings.

Board Attendance: President Karen Delano, Board Vice President Kristen Brickman, Secretary Crist Miller and Board Trustees Joshua Hutchinson, Paul Newman, and Kate Pitrone.  Board Trustee Jake Yanchar was absent.

Staff Attendance:

• Kris Carroll - Director

• Lisa Havlin - Fiscal Officer

• Nicole Burnside - Human Resources

• Deborah Schrock - Development Coordinator (Recording Secretary for this meeting)

• Erika Noark - Geauga West Branch Manager

• Kevin Barton, Thompson Branch Manager

• Rachael Hartman - Middlefield Branch Manager

• Mike Pope - IT Manager

• John Johnson - Facilities Manager

• Judy Lasco - Chardon Branch Manager

• Danielle Hollar - Bainbridge Branch Manager

• Marlene Pelyhes - Tech Services Manager
  

Public: This Observer attended in person. 

President Delano called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm and roll call was taken. 

Minutes: Minutes of the March 18, 2025 Board Meeting were approved without discussion. Board minutes are available online. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to access minutes. The minutes are posted as soon as they are approved at the following month’s Board meeting.  

Communications:

• Kathryn Pitrone Reappointment letter from Judge Matthew Rambo and Judge Carolyn Paschke  Observer note: Kate Pitrone’s term ends June 30, 2025. The Judges approved her reappointment for a term of 7 years beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2032. Reviewer Note:  Three of the seven Board members are appointed by the Court of Common Pleas.  The other four are appointed by the County Commissioners.

• PBS Ideastream Newsletter “Check Out” feature that highlighted the GCPL Middlefield Branch.

Agenda: The agenda presented in the Board packet was approved with no additions or subtractions.

Fiscal Officer’s Report - Ms. Havlin

• The March report was approved without discussion.

• An audit of the OPERS (Ohio Public Employees Retirement System) required filings was completed.  An auditor from the Ohio Auditor of State’s office reviewed the GCPL 2024 OPERS reports and selected employee files. The audit confirmed that the library is reporting employee retirement deductions and library retirement contributions as required by law. 

• Legislative Day and State Budget - Ms Carrol and Ms Havlin attended the Ohio Library Council (OLC) sponsored Legislative Day at the State House. They heard from state representatives that support libraries, but learned of the changes that the State House of Representatives propose to library funding. The biggest concern is the change in the source of funding for the  Public Library Fund (PLF).  The source of funding that has been in use is for libraries to receive a percentage of  the General Revenue Fund (GRF).  The Ohio House’s proposed budget would change this to a line-item appropriation.  This change may impact the GCPL’s ability to borrow based on anticipated proceeds from the Public Library Fund. The Board packet included historical funding levels and a comparison of funding for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 as listed below:
  

Director’s Report - Ms. Carroll

• Roundtable meetings with employees were held across the system to discuss shared challenges, ideas, and system-wide priorities.

• There was a working session with the branch managers to shape the goals and plan for  future Staff Days.  

• Meetings were held with key stakeholders regarding the Chardon project. 

• At the Library Legislative Day in Columbus, the director and fiscal officer advocated for  strong, continued support of Ohio’s public libraries. The Geauga representatives were unavailable for individual meetings but they heard directly from the Governor and several  key legislators who spoke to the importance of libraries in strengthening Ohio’s communities. At the meeting Ms Carroll shared real stories that illustrate how GCPL  provides essential services—stories that highlight the impact of their work on individuals and families. These stories were shared with legislators, community leaders, and patrons to reinforce the vital role of libraries and the need for sustained investment in library services and  infrastructure. 

• Observer note: OLC has information on House Bill 96 which contains funding, reduces term length of Board members/Trustees and requires public libraries to place gender identity/expression materials in a portion of the library not open to persons under the age of 18. It is going to the Senate and needs to be approved by June 30, 2025.

• Chardon project. Contract negotiations with CMR Regency Construction are complete. Observer Note:  See March 18, 2025 LWVG report for information on the selection process.  Bostwick Design facilitated community engagement efforts and stakeholder meetings, and the results of the online survey have been collected and  shared with their team. Next is  collection counts and usage data. Ms. Carroll and Ms. Schrock met with County stakeholders to discuss the project, and a kick-off meeting with Regency and Bostwick is scheduled for late April.
  

FACILITIES

1. Managed the full setup and takedown of the mini-golf course for the annual Foundation Fundraiser, helping to ensure a smooth and successful event for attendees.  

2. The System-wide fire alarm inspections are taking place to ensure all safety equipment is  functioning properly and remains in compliance with state regulations.  

3. At the Chardon Branch, the wheelchair lift has been repaired and is now fully operational, restoring accessible entry for  patrons who rely on this feature.  All shade sails have been reinstalled at our outdoor spaces,  

4. Carpet cleaning is also scheduled at all branches in the coming  week.

5. The roof replacement project at the Geauga West Branch is complete. The final walk-through was conducted with contractors, and all warranty documentation has been received and filed, officially closing out this infrastructure upgrade. 

TECH SERVICES 

1. Eight new items have been added to the Library of Things 2025 collection. This project was a collaborative effort of various departments.

2. Technical Services streamlined the invoice processing system for all Technical Services  vendors, to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround times. 

3. Ordering has transitioned back to Ingram to ensure a more consistent flow of new materials, helping to keep the shelves responsive to patron demand. 

MARKETING 

1. Throughout March the Marketing team actively promoted the Mini-Golf Fundraiser across all  platforms, generating strong community interest and visibility for the event. 

2. Digital Legacy Labs also received targeted promotion to raise awareness of the new technology offerings available to patrons. 

3. Final design and production work for Summer Reading materials is nearing  completion, ensuring everything will be ready for a successful launch. 

4. During the first two weeks of April, the team led a system-wide communication effort focused on  the state budget and its potential impact on Ohio’s public libraries. This included email campaigns, social media outreach, and coordinated messaging across branches. Patron engagement has been positive, with high open rates and encouraging feedback, reflecting strong public support for library funding.  

 IT

1. In March,  the IT team resolved a range of technical issues and ensured smooth daily operations across all locations. 

2. The library has begun implementing KnowBe4 cybersecurity training for all staff as part of an ongoing  commitment to data security and digital awareness. The training will help strengthen GCPL’s defenses against phishing, ransomware, and other online threats.

3. Staff and public computers are  being upgraded to Windows 11.  

4. Systemwide staff training on the Digital Legacy Labs was completed in April.

DEVELOPMENT

1. The Director and Development Coordinator met with Dr. Stoddard from Berkshire Local Schools to learn about his experience with capital campaigns. He offered valuable insights and shared helpful contacts as they explore the potential for a campaign for GCPL. 

2. The Mini-Golf fundraiser on April 5th was a success, with strong attendance at both event locations.
   

Assistant Director’s Report: Ms. Farrell

Observer Note:  This is an outline of what was presented in the board packet as Ms. Farrell was not in attendance.

Branch reports:

• BAINBRIDGE

400 people attend 21 storytime programs presented by the Youth Services staff in March. One special storytime promoted the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.  A reporter for the Geauga Maple Leaf came to report on the partnership and service to our community.

• CHARDON

Early Literacy Night at the Chardon Early Learning Center took place on March 20th. It was an open house night for parents of children in Preschool to Kindergarten in the  Chardon School District. Staff set up a table and handed out flyers promoting library events and chatted with children and parents. Approximately 175 children and their parents attended.

The Genealogy department held three history programs: “The Lost Nation of the Whittlesey People”, Iroquois Native Americans in the area and “Local Heroes of the Civil War.”

• GEAUGA WEST

Candi Griffith became the system’s newest Public Services Assistant in March. This  position provides much needed flexibility on all the desks.

• MIDDLEFIELD

Sixty people participated in a Craft Supply Swap. The Blood Drive drew 53  donors. Programs at three Amish schools reached over 150  students.

• MOBILE SERVICES 

Mobile Services hired two new part-time drivers this month, after having the position open for months. They both started working the week of March 17th. The Summer Bookmobile schedule begins in May. The Bookmobile and Fun Bus will both be used. This will hopefully prolong the life of the Bookmobile since it will not be used all day, six days a week.

• THOMPSON

One of the Thompson patrons is an aspiring actor and the branch has been printing scripts for him. He  got a call for an audition for a commercial and got the job. He credits the library for their help.

• March 2025 Statistics:

  • 42,021 patrons served at the branches

  • 17,288 computer and wi-fi uses

  • 701 programs presented for 15,125  patrons

  • 13,751 reference interactions 

  • Total circulation of items: 250,833

Human Resources: Ms. Burnside

• 4 new hires and 1 termination

• 10 Quarterly Outstanding Service Award recipients Approved

• The actions of HR (Human Resources) were voted on and approved by the Board.

Committee Reports - none

Unfinished Business - none

New Business - Ms. Carroll

Ms. Carroll reviewed updates to Operating Policies with the Board. They took the following actions.

1. Approval of Updates to Operating Policy 415/940 Support Groups - The changes were approved without discussion. Observer’s note. A few groups were taken off the list.

2. Approval of Updates to Operating Policy 515 Technology Privacy - There was discussion concerning the use of personal cell phones for personal reasons. The changes were amended and approved.

3. Approval of Updates to Operating Policy 545 Animals in the Library - The changes were approved without discussion. 

4. Approval of Removal of Operating Policy 581 Bulletin Boards - The information is duplicated in Operating Policy 965 Displaying Community Information.  Voted on and approved without discussion.

5. Approval of Updates to Operating Policy 731 Loan Periods, Renewals, Fines and Fees - Observer’s note: items were added to the list. The additions were voted on and approved without discussion.

In addition, the discard list consisting of 2 broken office chairs was approved.

Board Development - Ms. Carroll
Ms. Carroll provided results of the Chardon Online Community Survey from 343 respondents.

How often do you visit the Chardon Branch? 

• Once a week or more - 77

• Several times a month - 117

• Once a month - 59

• Several times a year - 87

Why do you not use the Chardon Branch? (select all that apply) 

• Library hours are inconvenient - 1

• The library doesn't offer anything I want or need -1

• Parking is a challenge -2

• The library's locations are not convenient -2

• I don't feel welcome at the library -3

• I can find what I need on the internet -1

• I buy the books and other materials I want -3

• I don't have time -4

• Other -0

What is your age range?

• Under 18 -   3

• 18 - 24      -  7

• 25 - 40     - 94

• 41 - 54      -86

• 55 - 65      -54

• Over 65    169

What do you typically do at the library? (Select up to 4)

• Browse for or check-out books and other matters - 287

• Bring a child to find or read books or attend a library program -140

• Attend a library program - 135

• Find information and/or do research  -68

• Attend a meeting sponsored by a non-library group - 43

• Study or use a conference room - 34

• Meet friends  - 29

• Read  -11

• Visit an exhibition - 10

• Use a library computer -2

• Access wi-fi  -1

• Other -0 

What features should be improved at the library? (select up to 4)

• Parking or access from parking  -169

• Space for children - 139

• Spaces that support creating or making things -110

• More space for books - 93

• Quiet space -72

• A family or single use restroom  -66

• Small group conference/ study rooms  -65

• Space for teens -62

• Meeting rooms - 57

• Materials drop-off  -53

• Space or resources to support solo business practitioners and entrepreneurs -19

• Signage -10

• Other -0

Foundation - Ms. Schrock

• A successful Mini Golf event took place on Saturday, April 5th at the Bainbridge  Branch. Families filled the library during the day, enjoying rounds of mini golf, playing Blinko, and entering tickets into a variety of raffle baskets. The transition to the evening’s Adult event at 6 PM went smoothly, with guests sampling beverages from local breweries and a wine distributor, as well as food from area restaurants. Attendees stayed to enjoy live music from a local musician, participate in the Longest Drive Contest, and continue playing mini golf and Blinko. A couple of meeting rooms were transformed into cozy lounges where guests could relax and watch the Men’s Final Four.

• The Friends Committee met on March 25th at the Chardon Branch to discuss plans for the upcoming Maple Festival Book Sale. 

• On Saturday, April 26th, during the Maple Festival, volunteers will assist with parking at the Chardon Library Branch in exchange for a $10 donation. All proceeds from this effort will benefit the Geauga County Library Foundation.
  

Public Comment - This Observer asked if anything had been decided about HB257 in regards to zoom meetings. It was reported that nothing has been decided. This Observer then asked if the library had recently had any book challenges. Ms. Carroll responded that there had been no recent challenges. Ms. Noark printed out the GCPL policy and forms for book and programming challenges and provided them to this Observer.

The Board went into Executive session at 4:27 pm to consider the purchase or sale of property. There was no announcement when they came out and the meeting was adjourned.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned after the Board left executive session.  No action was taken.

Upcoming Events:

• April 24-26 - Maple Festival Book Sale

• May 10 - Drive through book donation at the Geauga County Fairgrounds

Next Meeting: The next Regular Board meeting is May 20th at 4:00 pm at the Chardon Branch.  See website for information on meeting dates and locations.

Minutes:  The latest minutes are posted here.  Prior to March 2023, videos of meetings were available to the public here.  The GCPL is no longer posting videos of their meetings.

Observer: Cris Takacs

Editor: Gail Roussey

Reviewer: Carol Benton

Date Submitted: May 5, 2025

The League of Women Voters of Geauga is a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. They do not support or oppose individual candidates or parties. Learn more about the LWVG at www.lwvgeauga.org.