Library Advisory Board Meeting

Library Advisory Board Meeting Recap: March 13, 2025

The Buncombe County Library Advisory Board convened on March 13, 2025, to discuss ongoing operational challenges, celebrate recent successes, and explore ways the library system can better serve the community. The meeting was attended by board members and key library staff, including Director Justice and Kay Wall from the Trust Fund for Buncombe County Public Library.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on addressing the current hiring freeze imposed by the county, which has resulted in temporary modified schedules at six of the twelve library locations. While board members acknowledged community concerns regarding these reduced hours, they noted that other local issues have recently taken precedence in public discussion. The board agreed to analyze data from these branches to inform future operational decisions, aiming for a phased return to full schedules as vacancies are filled. Director Justice assured the board and, by extension, the community, of the library’s commitment to restoring full service once the hiring freeze ends and emphasized ongoing conversations with county leadership regarding prioritizing library positions.

Beyond addressing current challenges, the meeting celebrated several notable achievements. The Reading Mentors program at the Inca Candler Library received the prestigious 2024 Large Library System Program of the Year Award from the North Carolina Public Library Directors Association, a recognition that highlighted the program’s positive impact. The popular Zoom Pass program is also set to resume next month, expanding access to digital resources for residents. A significant boost to library facilities was announced: an $81,000 refurbishment project for the North Asheville branch, funded by the Friends of the Library and Trust Fund. This will include interior painting and carpeting improvements. It was also revealed that Buncombe County Public Libraries’ digital resources are experiencing a surprisingly broad reach, with users accessing them from across the globe, including Australia, Portugal and Bosnia.

The Trust Fund for Buncombe County Public Library presented an overview of their activities, emphasizing their support for library staff scholarships and professional development. They announced plans to develop a website to better communicate their mission and activities to the community, furthering transparency and engagement.

A forward-looking discussion focused on how libraries can play a more active role in community disaster response. Board member Artie proposed exploring the possibility of designating libraries as “community resiliency hubs,” equipped with backup power and internet access. This idea resonated with the board, particularly given the library’s experience utilizing a portable solar system during the recent Helene storm.

Key Decisions & Votes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from their January 9, 2025 meeting and voted to postpone public comment due to technical difficulties.

Community Input: While a scheduled community member, Lena, was unable to participate due to technical issues, she previously submitted praise for the Oakley Library's continued excellent programming despite reduced hours. The board agreed to follow up with Lena and potentially revisit public comment at a future meeting.

Action Items & Next Steps: Several key action items emerged from the discussion:

• The library will analyze data on usage trends at branches operating under reduced hours.
• A report detailing these usage trends will be presented at the May 8th meeting.
• Jason will investigate options for attending the NCPLDA award ceremony in New Bern to represent the library.
• The library will explore options for libraries to serve as community resiliency hubs, including investigating funding opportunities and partnerships.
• The Trust Fund Board will begin developing a website to communicate their mission and activities.
• Angelica will coordinate communication with the county to ensure awareness of the Reading Mentors program award.

This meeting demonstrated a proactive approach to navigating current challenges while simultaneously celebrating successes and exploring innovative ways the library system can enhance its value to Buncombe County residents. The focus on data-driven decision making, coupled with a commitment to community engagement and disaster preparedness, positions the library system for continued growth and relevance.