FREDERICK COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MINUTES OF MEETING
JUNE 3, 2026
The Frederick County Public Libraries Board of Trustees Meeting convened at 7:00 p.m. on June 3, 2026, at the C. Burr Artz Library – Community Room.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: M. Richmond, T. Lancaster, D. Grisgraber, G. Mayfield, J. D’Agostino, M. O’Leary
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: S. Sheppard, J. Donald
STAFF PRESENT: J. Kelly, Director; C. Hall, Deputy Director; S. McDuff, Deputy Director; B. McDermott, Finance Manager; P. Wienecke, Fiscal Assistant; A. Archibald, Personnel Supervisor; J. Marshall – Systems Manager; B. Heltebridle – Branch Services Manager; B. Hissong, Community Engagement Manager; S. Yates, Branch Administrator – C. Burr Artz Library; D. Spurrier, Branch Administrator – Emmitsburg Library; A. Knight, Branch Administrator – Middletown Library; B. Brannen, Branch Administrator – Thurmont Library; J. Diaz, Branch Administrator – Brunswick Library; R. Reeves, Branch Administrator – Urbana Regional Library and Point of Rocks Library; and C. Smith, Executive Assistant and Recording Secretary.
CITIZEN REMARKS: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: M. Richmond motioned to approve the Minutes of the May 13, 2026, Board Meeting with one change; seconded by J. D’Agostino. No further discussion.
VOTE: Unanimous.
CHAIR’S REPORT: The Chair shared her enthusiasm for FCPL’s Summer Reading Challenge and reflected on the impact libraries had on her growing up.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
J. Kelly highlighted the library’s impact on communities across the County and shared a customer interaction to remind the Board of the people behind the reported numbers.
FCPL has been working to anticipate, listen, and respond. Staff in Thurmont pivoted quickly when the Catoctin Youth Association’s lacrosse and soccer photo day at a local park was rained out and provided access to the Community Room, which resulted in a successful indoor event and the opportunity for many families to visit the library for the first time. Library staff in Urbana hosted their third annual Ask an Artist event, which engaged over 20 teens and provided space for panelists to network with one another and expose young customers to new art forms, all which highlight the library’s role as a community hub.
FCPL is also working hard to grow sustainably. In partnership with the Town of Thurmont, the library hosted their annual Green Fest, bringing in over 600 attendees, and 75% of the vendors and organizations were first-time participants, with half of them committing to future partnerships. The Brunswick branch will again be offering their summer lunch program in partnership with the City of Frederick Department of Housing and Human Services. Together they are piloting a once-per-month “food drop” which will provide shelf-stable grocery items and the opportunity to learn about library services.
FCPL is fostering belonging and the Walkersville Library team was recently recognized for their ongoing work with adults with developmental disabilities. They were awarded the “Community Involvement Award” by the Arc of Frederick County, where presenters noted the library’s kind and caring staff, the welcoming space they have built, and the access to materials and programs in various formats for all abilities. At the C. Burr Artz location, staff encountered a parent in need of books for her daughter with dyslexia. They recommended a selection of books to meet their needs – the interaction highlighting the need for an inclusive and accessible collection.
Statistical data was shared that reflects the continued growth of digital borrowing. Comparing data from April 2023 to last month points to the rise in the circulation of eContent, which has grown from 37% to 50% of the total collection.
BUDGET/CIP UPDATE:
J. Kelly shared the recent budget updates such as the approval of the operating budget for FY27. Capital projects for the next three years include the construction of West Frederick and the beginning stages of design for East County Regional in FY27, the opening of West Frederick in FY28, and construction of East County Regional and design of North Frederick in FY29.
Important dates to note include our TED Democracy: Founding Futures program on June 13th and the next Board of Trustees meeting on September 2.
J. Kelly shared his appreciation for Galen Mayfield and his time serving on the Board of Trustees, as his term is ending over the summer recess.
M. Richmond asked where the WonderBooks are located.
NEW BUSINESS
Financial Report:
B. McDermott shared FY26 budget numbers tentative as of April 30, 2026.
Community Engagement Update:
B. Hissong shared how the Bookmobiles have been serving the community over the past year. The Community Bookmobile celebrated 60 years of service with a fun community event. Library staff partnered with Waverly Elementary School to make the Bookmobile available at a monthly parent meeting and provide an opportunity for parents and students to check out audiobooks as a way to learn English. The Community Engagement team worked to provide excitement and accessibility by changing the summer routes to include new stops at different locations. The New Early Start Bookmobile is already working to serve Frederick County children and youth who may not have regular access to library services. The Rover travels to the West Frederick area for outreach every other Friday and has recently expanded to provide activities for teens in addition to the services geared toward elementary school students.
M. Richmond inquired about the partnership that allows students to return FCPL books to school media centers.
Election of Officers:
G. Mayfield nominated D. Grisgraber as Secretary, seconded by J. D’Agostino. G. Mayfield nominated T. Lancaster as Vice Chair, seconded by J. D’Agostino. No further discussion. Vote: Unanimous.
Board questions and comments: J. D’Agostino expressed gratitude for Galen’s work on the Board of Trustees. M. Richmond noted how instrumental Galen was in helping to interview and select a new Board member. M. Richmond introduced new Board member Ashley Bowen.
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 September 2, 2026.
J. D’Agostino made motion to adjourn to closed session; seconded by M. O’Leary. No further discussion. Vote: Unanimous.
The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
Minutes signed by,
M. Richmond
Chair, Frederick County Public Libraries Board of Trustees