Library Board Chair Cindy McAllister presented to the Council on the state of the Library Board and its actions in the previous year, for the benefit of the new Council members and Mayor.
She said the community donated their recipes to the Library, which it then sold as a cookbook successfully as a fundraiser.
“We made 250 copies and we only have about 14 left.” she said. “So that was good.”
She said that since they were informed that raffles ‘aren’t legal’ for a library, they will not be doing further raffles than their Easter Raffle.
Other events included a spaghetti dinner at the Legion, and selling discarded furniture.
She also said they raised the CEO, Debbie McLaughlin’s hours from 3 hours a week to 7, which “she desperately needed to get everything done that needed to be done.”
“What we’re looking at is including Westmeath a little more, because we’ve been getting comments that Westmeath is way out there and not included.” she said, saying that they planned to implement a lending library that Westmeath residents could access online, with library board individuals bringing the selected books out.
CEO McLaughlin said that the three branches in Whitewater Region had 2010 patrons and 12,610 checkouts as of November 1, “Which is pretty good since we’re only open 14 hours a week each branch.”
She also said they were able to award $500 grants to two recipients through the Barbara McWha Memorial fund, as well as a $500 grant from the International Dyslexia Association of Ontario for decodable books for dyslexic people.
Treasurer Monica LeGrotta said that their business growth was down by 11%, with their Fundraising income goal down by 54% and their donation income goal down by 53%.
Mark Bell asked: “local libraries have a pass to go to museums in Ottawa. Does our library offer that?”
“That is something that we offer.” Treasurer Monica LeGrotta said. We offer passes to the major museums in Ottawa.”
Councillor Michael Moore said that “their attitude and your vigor have never failed to impress me.”
Mayor Neil Nicholson praised the Board’s incorporation and encouragement of Whitewater Seniors into their actions
“We do receive a $2,330 grant from the provincial government.” McLaughlin added.
“Is there any other partnerships that are with neighbouring municipalities?” Mayor Nicholson asked.
“Not at this time.” LeGrotta said.
