FREDERICK COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MINUTES OF MEETING
APRIL 2, 2025
The Frederick County Public Libraries Board of Trustees Meeting convened at 7:00 p.m. on April 2, 2025, at the C. Burr Artz Library – Community Room.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: M. O’Leary, S. Sheppard, T. Lancaster, J. D’Agostino, M. Richmond, G. Mayfield, J. Donald
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: D. Grisgraber
STAFF PRESENT: J. Kelly, Director; S. McDuff – Associate Director; B. McDermott, Finance Manager; J. Marshall, Manager – Systems; A. Archibald, Personnel Supervisor; C. Brohawn, Project Coordinator; K. Cambrel, Communications Manager; M. Currens, Library Collections Manager; C. Krogh, Facilities Manager; J. El-Zeftawy, Development Officer; B. Heltebridle, Branch Services Manager; B. Hissong, Community Engagement Manager; L. Branson, Branch Administrator – Walkersville Library; D. Spurrier, Branch Administrator – Emmitsburg Library; A. Knight, Branch Administrator – Middletown Library; B. Brannen, Branch Administrator – Thurmont Regional Library; J. Diaz, Branch Administrator – Brunswick Library; R. Cox-Steib, Branch Administrator – Myersville Library; B. Watts, Staff Development Coordinator; B. Reeves, Assistant Branch Administrator – Urbana Regional Library; E. Gambrill, Youth Services Coordinator; J. O’Brien, Children’s Services Supervisor; C. Wivell, Development Intern; M. Goree, Library Associate; J. Sedgely, Library Associate; K. Shomaker, Library Associate; M. Parchment, Library Associate; L. Neuman, Library Associate; M. McKenna, Library Associate; and C. Smith, Executive Assistant and Recording Secretary.
CITIZEN REMARKS: None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: M. Richmond motioned to approve the Minutes of March 5, 2025; seconded by M. O’Leary. No further discussion.
VOTE: Unanimous.
CHAIR’S REPORT: The Chair shared her experience working with pre-kindergarten students and the lessons we can take from them. Children at this age are present and live in the moment, finding joy in simple things. They are creative, honest, resilient, adaptable, curious, forgiving, and connected.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
Mr. Kelly reported on the recent news of an executive order that was signed to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services, as well as the impact this may have on FCPL.
He then introduced Development Intern, Chloe Wivell who is finishing her semester’s work under the supervision of Development Officer Jess El-Zeftawy.
The Director reported on ways FCPL is working toward its strategic priorities. FCPL is expanding access by partnering with the Thurmont Food Bank and building bridges through the first Kindness Festival, a multigenerational event 300 people attended, and staff ASL training to better serve customers. FCPL sparked excitement with CBA’s KidQuest program, which focused on socialization, creativity, and STEAM concepts.
Pivoting to statistics, Mr. Kelly shared the February reports. He noted that eContent has more use than physical materials, and year-over-year comparisons now reflect consistent service hours and are significantly removed from COVID-related disruptions, allowing us to identify emerging trends.
BUDGET/CIP UPDATE:
Regarding the budget, the County Executive will present her FY26 budget by April 15th, in accordance with the County Charter. As previously mentioned, the County anticipates potential cost shifts from the State, the specifics of which may not be fully determined until after the County Executive's draft budget is due. Consequently, FCPL can expect her to adopt a conservative approach to the draft budget in preparation for these anticipated cost shifts.
Important dates to note include the upcoming event with Kashmir Hill on the topic of technology and privacy, as well as the next board meeting.
J. D’Agostino asked how much money FCPL receives from the state library through grants.
M. Richmond expressed how vital staff development is and concern for the potential effect of cuts, as well as if we have time to reallocate budgets for this fiscal year and next fiscal year.
J. D’Agostino asked how the funding from the state works, if it is reimbursed or project-based.
S. Sheppard inquired about the statistics included in the eContent numbers.
M. O’Leary commented on the recent cuts to federal government funding and staff.
NEW BUSINESS
LATI Recognition:
J. Kelly provided background information about the LATI program and recognized J. Sedgley, M. Parchment, L. Neuman, and M. Goree for their hard work in completing the program.
M. O’Leary recognized the LATI graduates and stressed the importance of their contribution.
Financial Report:
B. McDermott shared FY25 budget numbers tentative as of February 28, 2025, with data pulled on March 14, 2025.
J. D’Agostino asked about the increased cost in the sheriff’s security line item from last month’s reporting.
Brunswick Library Update:
J. Diaz shared information about the growth of the Brunswick community and the Brunswick branch’s successes over the past year. The Brunswick library is expanding access by inviting new customers, increasing visits to PreK classes, expanding notary staff certifications, and evaluating and improving physical space needs. They are building bridges by expanding and growing current partnerships with organizations like the Literacy Council, the Fire Department, Go Team Therapy Dogs, and the Catoctin Nature Center. Brunswick is sparking interest through teen and tween programming, as well as for adults with programs featuring historical and cultural content.
J. Donald asked about events in Brunswick.
M. O’Leary commented on the need to learn new skills and adapt to best serve customers.
Summer Challenge Update:
E. Gambrill and J. O’Brien shared important dates for the upcoming Summer Challenge. She provided insight into the ways the planning team will be utilizing community partnerships to lessen the financial costs associated with prizes, specifically with experience prizes versus physical items. Some examples include a Bruster’s How Ice Cream Is Made kitchen tour, Reporter for a Day with The Frederick News Post, throwing the first pitch at a Frederick Keys game, and shadowing a librarian at a local branch. A new feature being introduced this year is a Community Goal to unite participants around a shared milestone. J. O’Brien shared the game play for participants, and E. Gambrill shared the outcome of the Grand Prize Campaign in partnership with Jess El-Zeftawy. The Summer Challenge will feature exciting summer programs and will kick off with several events across the county.
J. D’Agostino commented on the new experience prizes.
M. Richmond inquired about paper logs for those without access to Beanstack and what materials will be sent home from schools to encourage summer reading.
J. D’Agostino asked about free summer school programs.
M. O’Leary asked how long the Summer Challenge has been in existence at FCPL.
Board Member Reappointment:
G. Mayfield made a motion to reappoint S. Sheppard to the FCPL Board of Trustee; seconded by T. Lancaster. No further discussion.
VOTE: Yes – J. D’Agostino, G. Mayfield, M. O’Leary, M. Richmond, T. Lancaster
Abstain – S. Sheppard
Board questions and comments: None.
Other Citizen remarks: None.
The next FCPL Board of Trustees meeting will be held at the C. Burr Artz Library – Community Room at 7:00 p.m. on May 14, 2025.
J. D’Agostino made a motion to adjourn the meeting; seconded by T. Lancaster. No further discussion. VOTE: Unanimous.
The meeting adjourned at 8:05 pm.
Signed by S. Sheppard
Chair, Frederick County Public Libraries Board of Trustees