Library Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda

Exhibit I.a. - PrePaid Checks

Exhibit I.b. - August Warrant Checks

Exhibit I.c. - Prepaid Expenses

Exhibit I.d. - September Warrants

Exhibit II - Budget Report

Exhibit III - Income Report

Bank Balances

• Money Market $4,896,395.23.
• General Checking $52,586.97.
• Special Fund $3,010.34.
• Total $4,951,992.54.
• Disbursements 09/11/2026 $142,163.14.

Balance $4,806,918.06

Exhibit IV.a. - Director’s Report

Accessibility Update

Beginning with this month’s reports, Department Heads and Team Leaders have begun entering their reports on the new system developed to meet new accessibility standards for webpages. While there may still be occasion to attach PDF or other files, and there is a learning curve as we navigate the new reporting system, we will endeavor to have reports entered in a manner both accessible and timely. Many thanks to Brendon Kozlowski and Don Flinton who have led our efforts in this regard.

SaratogaREADS!

The public ballots are now open for voting for the next season of SaratogaREADS! programs and discussions, to begin in early 2027. This is a fiction year in our alternating fiction/nonfiction cycle, and five novels are in contention for the 2027 selection. An online ballot can be found at this link: We Want Your Vote! | Saratoga Reads!

Saratoga Book Festival

The Friends Book Festival weekend is nearly upon us, with official events scheduled from Thursday, October 1 through Sunday, October 4, kicking off with Eric Idle at Universal Preservation Hall on Thursday evening. Other headline events include sessions with Chris Bhojalian, Julia Alvarez at UPH and Joan Lunden at Skidmore College. The Night Marketplace returns to UPH on Friday evening, and the Sunday KidZone moves to the Saratoga Children’s Museum this year. A full schedule of events can be found at this link: 2026 Festival Sessions - FRIENDS of the Saratoga Springs Public Library

Policy Review

This month’s agenda includes adoption of two policies included on the agenda of previous meetings: the Draft Program Policy, and the American Library Association’s Library Workers Bill of Rights. Upcoming meeting will include consideration of a new policy regarding Artificial Intelligence, currently in development, and review of the library’s fiscal and procurement policies, which can be found under the following links:

· Fiscal Responsibility Policy and General Accounting Practices - SSPL.org

· Fixed Asset Capitalization - SSPL.org

· Investments - SSPL.org

· Saratoga Springs Public Library Procurement - SSPL.org

Insurance Renewal

Jen Ferriss and I met with Amsure President Matt D’Abate to discuss our insurance renewal for the current fiscal year. Amsure is our broker for all non-health insurance policies, for which we use Marshall and Sterling as our broker. As anticipated, there will be slight increases in nearly all premiums, with the most marked increase in Workers Compensation premiums, based on our experience modification.

Programs and Community Involvement

My Books and Tea discussion group wrapped up the summer reading season with a lively discussion of Come, Tell Me How You Live, Agatha Christie’s memoir of her time accompanying her husband, the archaeologist Max Mallowan, on digs in Syria during the years between the World Wars. Following a summer of archeology-themed reading, participants are eager to move on to new territory. Our next discussion is of the multi-generational family saga The Sisters by Jonas Hassen Khmeriri.

On September 22, I will be participating in presenting a program about Positive Peace Conversations with the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs. The evening’s discussion will focus on “The Free Flow of Information” which is one of the eight pillars of positive peace as outlined by the Institute for Economics and Peace. The evening will focus on the following four questions for conversation and reflection:

• How easily can people in your community access independent news and facts?
• Where do you notice censorship or a lack of open dialogue around you?
• How does misinformation or social media change how people trust each other locally?
• What steps can local groups take to share honest and clear information during tough times?

Members of my cohort of fellow Rotarian Positive Peace Conversations moderator trainees from across the state will be present to help moderate discussions.

Respectfully submitted by A. Issac Pulver, Library Director

Exhibit IV.b. - Assistant Director Report

Staff Development Day

Our annual Staff Development Day is Friday September 25th. In the past few years we have visited places within our service area including the City of Saratoga and the Town of Greenfield. This year we plan to focus on the Town of Wilton. Special guests include Toni Sturm,Town Supervisor, Ross MacNeil, Recreation Director @ Gavin Park and Craig Hayner, Saratoga County Clerk. Narcan training, department gatherings and a presentation on the Youth Department’s Decodable Book Collection. In the afternoon, staff will have the opportunity to visit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, Grants Cottage, or stick around the Mall and watch a movie or walk around and check out what spaces are available and are currently leased.

Space Use Study

We have had 2 more months worth of data since we last met, bringing us up to 7 months. The last month we will collect is January 2027.

Mellon Grant : Operationalizing Community Resilience

Operationalizing Community Resilience will pilot a training program that will build 40 library-led initiatives to mitigate or adapt to climate hazards and stronger relationships between libraries and local community-based organizations through partnership development

Over the summer I have been working with 10 rural and small libraries from Iowa serving populations of 25,000 or less. The library staff are working through a training plan designed by Rebbekah Smith Aldrich in consultation with the Sustainable Libraries Initiative staff, myself, Matthew Bollerman and Lisa Kropp. We are currently in the working group phase of the training which includes designated time to work on projects each month. I have been working along side the Iowan participants to produce a Pocket Response Plan™ (PReP™); a concise document for recording essential information in case of a disaster or other emergency. We have this information available on our staff website as well as on white boards in the maintenance work space, this will consolidate the information. I am also in the early stages of finding out what the library would need in order to become an official cooling and heating center for our residents.

Reviewing our disaster plan has been a long term goal of mine since I joined the library and this is a good first step that can be completed by the end of the year.

Respectfully submitted by Jennifer Ferriss, Assistant Director

Exhibit IV.c. - IT Group Monthly Report

July Door Count - 25,057

August Door Count - 24,289

New Board Report Format - Now Accessible!

For September’s Board meeting, we have begun using our new in-house developed system, which you’ve likely noticed. The change, though not necessarily this format, was required by the adoption of WCAG 2.0 recommendations and federal ADA laws covering website and digital accessibility regulations. We chose to create an HTML version of our Board reports for a variety of reasons. Primarily, we went with this option because we had a web developer available and, given the state of the mandate, which is currently on hold with no real direction from authorities, other options would have been only a partial fix and a bigger departure from our current methods.

Our meetings will be built using a form builder by entering the basic content of what we want to convey to the board with the ability to use lists and tables, inject images and documents, with the server and custom code arranging content so the webpage is easier for screen readers to navigate, with titles, headers, lists, and images properly tagged and noted, allowing equal access for anyone struggling to read and providing a consistent package for the Trustees and the public.

This will be the first use of the new system and we will make every attempt to submit a good product but we also fully expect to continue to enhance this setup as we more forward and by the time the mandate date rolls around, with lawful penalties, we will have a great, clear and accessible product.

Connectivity

Updating and keeping abreast of newer more secure technologies is important for us. As Brendon has done for much of the website over the last few years we also apply the theory to the networks and internet connections. We update our servers and computers as often as feasible to allow the newest security patches to be applied, and firewalls, routers, and switches are constantly assessed, updated when possible, and replaced if their usefulness or security status is out of date.

We currently have about 10 main switches, routing traffic to our computers and devices, 4 firewall/routers inspecting and routing traffic in and out to the internet, and about a dozen devices between servers and utility devices that deliver the content, applications, and data to our staff and patrons every day. The library is fairly “connected” and will likely only grow with time. On our radar is a new cloud phone system and security door updates which will move some of those network applications out of the building and in-turn make us more reliant on those network devices.

Hotspots

We have acquired 3 more hotspots to add to our dwindling set of lending hotspots. Over the years our stock has broken or neglected to be returned and we were discussing whether to discontinue the service. The three that remain were seemingly always out, so it was a difficult decision that we were waffling on. TThen, out of the blue (through a trade show or cold call), Mission Telecom offered discounted hotspots at a very low monthly cost, so we decided to refill our jar of enthusiasm for the service and see how many more people might need this critical service.

Wondering how they could deliver this service at such a discounted rate had us all a bit wary, but the contract was solid, and our interactions with the representatives gave us no reason for concern. We found out during our onboarding call that this company had purchased portions of the 5G spectrum years ago, before it was commonly used for phones, and leveraged that position to obtain deep discounts on service by leasing frequencies to T-Mobile. They then turned that into a decent business model for working with nonprofit type organizations.

Website Updates Continue.

Now and since the public website changes were published allowing us this beautiful, accessible update, Brendon has moved over for a bit and is working on the Staff Site. That is also in need of updating and he rotates between the half a dozen web properties we manage updating the content when provided and the code base when necessary. Upgrades and the rewrite of the code for staff site is his current focus to maintain compatibility to server software upgrades, and offer future security upgrades. In addition he manages to squeeze in the maintenance of many of the integrations we utilize daily from the OPAC to our event calendar, LibCal, back around to google analytics and investigations into new technologies and tools.

Public website contains 517,837 lines of code and 4,100 files.
Our staff site contains 255,383 lines of code and 3,082 files.

Websites we have created to run common SSPL items, such as some of our display screen slides, or history room’s Digital Archive offering:

• sspl.org (cms)
  • staff (framework)
  • card (pages)
  • digitalarchive (cms)
  • screens (pages)
• saratogareads.org (cms)

Exhibit IV.d. - Human Resources - September 2026

Request To Appoint

• Katherine Demarco, Library Clerk, Access and Outreach (P/T), $20.06/hr, effective August 4, 2026.
• Lloyd Taylor, Building Maintenance Worker, Operations (P/T), $24.11/hr, effective August 17, 2026.
• Kim Eldridge, Cleaner, Operations (P/T), $18.79/hr, effective August 28, 2026.
• Ellie Ushakov, Shelver, Youth Services (P/T), $18.08/hr, effective September 1, 2026.

Resignation

• Kim Eldridge, Cleaner, Operations (P/T), effective September 15, 2026.

Hiring

• Cleaner, Operations (P/T) - collecting applications.

Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

Each year, all Library employees are required to complete New York State’s annual Sexual Harassment Prevention Training, which we administer through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). In previous years, the required training consisted of two approximately hour-long training videos. This year, the training requirement was streamlined to one video, which was a welcome change and made the annual training process more manageable for staff.

Approximately 95% of staff have completed this year’s required training. I have been following up with the small number of employees who still need to complete it and expect to reach 100% completion within the next week.

Recruitment and Staffing

Recruitment and onboarding activity has remained very busy over the past two months. Four new employees have been hired since the last Board meeting, requiring significant time dedicated to recruitment, interviewing, background checks, onboarding, and new-hire processing.

Unfortunately, one of those four new employees has already resigned, creating another vacancy in our part-time Cleaner position. Recruitment for that position will begin again, so hiring and onboarding will continue to be a significant focus over the coming weeks.

Over the past two months, Rob Peck has participated in his first interviews from the hiring side of the table while filling the Cleaner and Building Maintenance Worker positions. It has been great to see him gain confidence and become increasingly comfortable with the interview and selection process as he settles into his supervisory role.

Flu and COVID Vaccine Clinic

The Library will hold its annual Flu and COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic on October 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in partnership with Adirondack Health and Wellness. The clinic is open to all Library staff and volunteers, providing a convenient opportunity to receive their seasonal Flu and/or COVID-19 vaccinations on-site. Registration information and insurance requirements have been distributed in advance of the clinic.

Exhibit IV.e. - Digital Communications Report

Constant Contact (eNewsletter)

Audience engagement remained strong through August, with an increased open rate of 66% that continues to outperform non-profit industry benchmarks. Email volume held steady month-over-month, while total opens grew to 3,287 and total clicks reached 103. Please Note: August’s eNewsletter did not include our SaratogaREADS! Distribution List.

Breakdown of Email Engagement

• Opens by Device:
  • Mobile: 47%.
  • Desktop: 53%.
• Clicks by Device:
  • Mobile: 56%.
  • Desktop: 44%.

Facebook

August saw social media activity settle back down to typical levels after July’s surge in traffic. By posting less overall and focusing on key event updates—such as Summer Scares Saratoga and larger Summer Reading programs in the Community Room—we were able to keep engagement steady and effective on individual posts. The plan is to increase posting again in September.

Breakdown of Post Interactions (MoM)

• Reactions: 1,311 (July) - 371 (August) (-71.7%).
• Shares: 147 (July) - 34 (August) (-76.9%).
• Comments: 343 (July) - 8 (August) (-97.7%).

Instagram

August 2026 performance demonstrated strong overall audience expansion, crossing 2.1K followers with steady year-over-year growth (+23.5%), despite a sharp decline in publishing frequency (38 posts compared to 59 in July) that naturally led to lower overall views (-25.0%) and engagement (-30.6%). High-intent promotional content, particularly image carousels for the Summer Reading celebration at High Rock Park and Summer Scares, drove the highest per-post reach and interaction rates. As with Facebook, we are increasing post frequency in September.

Breakdown of Post Interactions (MoM)

• Likes: 306 (July) - 233 (August) (-23.9%).
• Shares: 37 (July) - 30 (August) (-18.9%).
• Comments: 6 (July) - 2 (August) (-66.7%).
• Posts Saved: 17 (July) - 2 (August) (-88.2%).

YouTube

In August 2026, YouTube performance saw a decline compared to July and August 2025—primarily due to posting no new videos during the month. Channel views dropped slightly to 370 and watch time fell to 12.3 hours, while returning viewers dropped by half. Despite the lack of new videos, impressions rose 30.16% MoM to 4,035. .

July Top-Performing Videos on YouTube

• Slippery Fish with Ms. Sarah: 106 views, 2.04 hours watch time, 5.20% CTR.
• Historic Bridges of the Adirondacks: 77 views, 2.08 hours watch time, 2.79% CTR.
• “In the Library” by Charles Simic: 17 views, 0.16 hours watch time, 18.18% CTR.
• Value Line Tutorial with Trevor - Part I: 17 views, 1.17 hours watch time, 6.45% CTR.

Takeaways for August…

• Open rates for the eNewsletter jumped to a strong 66% with over 3,280 total opens, continuing to far exceed non-profit industry benchmarks even while excluding the SaratogaREADS! list from this month’s send.
• Dips in views and interactions across Facebook and Instagram directly reflected an intentional drop in posting volume following July’s summer push, though both platforms are scheduled to increase publishing frequency again in September.
• Despite publishing fewer posts overall, targeted promotional content for key initiatives—such as Summer Scares Saratoga, Summer Reading events, and programs at High Rock Park—successfully generated the highest per-post reach and interaction rates.
• Audience expansion remained healthy year-over-year across social channels, with Instagram surpassing 2,100 followers (+23.5% YoY) and Facebook reaching 6,500 followers (+12.1% YoY).
• Even with zero new videos added to YouTube during August, impressions were up by over 30% MoM, highlighting ongoing interest in existing video content.

Prepared by Gina Michelin, Community Relations Coordinator

Exhibit V.a. - Access and Outreach Services

Circulation and Technical Services

Circulation and Technical Services had a steady summer, helping patrons at the service desks while also handling the behind-the-scenes work that keeps materials moving and collections in good shape. July and August showed continued strong summertime use of the library, with patrons making use of both physical and digital materials and staff keeping up with a steady volume of filling holds, processing withdrawn items, issuing parking permits and other daily tasks.

July and August circulation shows a total of 78,000 physical and digital checkouts over the two months. Physical materials continue to make up the majority of circulation, but digital resources also saw steady use. Patrons continued to check out eBooks and eAudiobooks and use streaming video, music, and digital magazines, showing that the library’s collections are being used in a variety of ways and from a variety of places.

There was (and always is) a significant amount of work involved in getting materials into the hands of patrons. Staff filled more than 9,000 holds during July and August, including more than 6,100 items received from other libraries for local patrons and more than 4,500 items pulled and sent to other libraries.

Staff processed 447 new library card applications over the two months, continuing to welcome new patrons and connect them with the library’s collections and services. Staff also issued 374 parking permits during the summer.

Technical Services continued to keep new materials moving into the collection while Circulation Staff processed through materials that were ready to be removed. Tech Services received, processed, and added more than 2,800 new physical items during July and August. Nearly 1,900 items were withdrawn from the collection, which helps keep the collection fresh and useful while making sure available shelf space is being used effectively.

Overall, the July and August numbers show how much activity takes place beyond the Circulation Desk. While patrons see the final result, such as a requested item ready for pickup, there is a considerable amount of staff effort behind each of those services.

Outreach Services

Senior Services, Persons-at-Home (Sarah Derven)

Throughout July and August, Sarah Derven’s work continued to bring the library directly to seniors and individuals who may have difficulty accessing library services on their own. In the two months, Sarah made 26 outreach site visits, served 400 patrons, and circulated 1,513 library items, demonstrating the ongoing demand for personalized library service in the community.

Sarah’s work extends beyond delivering materials. She made 144 phone calls, selected and placed 543 items on hold, and renewed 289 items, helping patrons stay connected to the collections they enjoy while providing a personal (and personalized) experience. She also visits individuals at home, delivering materials to 20 people over the two months.

A particularly meaningful part of Sarah’s work continues to be with memory care communities. In July and August, she led nine Memory Care Writing Groups, creating opportunities for participants to engage with writing, memory, creativity, and one another. While the number of groups varied between the two months, this programming reflects the library’s ability to provide meaningful engagement in settings where traditional library access & experiences may not be possible.

The month-to-month numbers also tell an interesting story. July saw higher overall circulation and patron activity, while August brought an increase in individual visits and outreach calls. Together, the figures illustrate the consistency and flexibility of senior outreach: whether through a site visit, a phone call, a carefully selected hold/recommendation, delivered items, or by facilitating a writing group, Sarah continues to find ways to make the library accessible and relevant to older adults throughout the community.

Community Events, Partnerships, Mobile Library (Jennifer Ogrodowski)

Throughout July and August, Jennifer Ogrodowski continued to bring the library to places where community members gather. Through farmers markets, summer meals sites, community celebrations, book groups, craft programs, and partnerships with local organizations, Jen maintained a visible and active library presence.

In July and August, Jen’s outreach efforts reached 755 attendees, with 233 library items loaned and 22 library cards issued or renewed. In August alone, she made 28 mobile library stops, demonstrating the breadth and frequency of this work.

Partnerships remain a key part of the outreach effort. For the second year, the library partnered with the United Way to bring the mobile library to summer meals sites on Wednesdays and Fridays, connecting with children and families throughout the summer. Jen also partnered with the Greenfield Historical Society for the annual Middle Grove Car Show in July and Caboose Day in August, bringing the library van alongside other community organizations and participating in events that celebrate local history and community.

Other programs, including the Shelters of Saratoga and Her Story book groups and craft activities at Wesley, provided opportunities for connection, creativity, and conversation. At the Saratoga Farmers Market, hands-on activities gave children and families another way to engage with the library.

Adult Literacy and English Language Learning (Mary Ann Rockwell)

Throughout July and August, Mary Ann’s Adult Literacy and English Language Learning program continued to provide individualized instruction, group learning opportunities, and a welcoming place for adults building their English skills. The program currently has 15 volunteer tutors, supporting learners at a wide range of English proficiency levels and with varied personal and educational goals.

Across the two months, the program provided 56 one-to-one tutoring sessions, 35 class sessions, and welcomed 133 class attendees, with volunteers contributing 254 hours of service. While summer travel and family schedules made August somewhat quieter, tutoring and classes continued to provide consistent opportunities for students to practice English and build confidence.

The program welcomed several new learners during this period, including students at the absolute beginner level. For these learners, progress often comes through small but meaningful steps: following simple directions, practicing phonics, learning everyday vocabulary, and gaining the confidence to participate in conversation. Tutors have found creative ways to support these students through repetition, movement, songs, and hands-on activities.

The program also continues to support students whose goals extend well beyond conversational English. One long-term student who began working with the program at a lower-intermediate level is now preparing to enter a graduate-level degree program while balancing work and family responsibilities. This achievement reflects the student’s considerable dedication, as well as the sustained support provided through regular tutoring.

Tutors continue to bring a wide variety of approaches to their work. One tutor led an eight-week book group focused on To Kill a Mockingbird, while another’s conversation circle evolved from spontaneous discussion into more structured activities using music, vocabulary, idioms, and cultural context. These varied approaches allow students to practice English in ways that are engaging, relevant, and responsive to their individual goals.

The program also provides access to library resources that can extend learning beyond tutoring sessions. One beginning-level student recently learned about Mango Languages and was excited to discover another way to practice English independently through the library. Moments like this demonstrate how literacy services can serve as a gateway to the library’s broader resources and opportunities.

Summer Scares: a “Horrific” Friends of the Library and Saratoga Springs Public Library Partnership

Saratoga Springs, NY is known for “Health, History, and Horses,” but on Tuesday, August 4, the Saratoga Springs Public Library flipped the script to Saratoga: Hell, Hysteria, and Horror! Trevor Oakley hosted the library’s first Horror Writer’s Association (HWA) “Summer Scares” event, featuring an author panel with HWA Summer Scares authors CJ Leede, Kyle Kouri, Christoph Paul, and Michael J. Seidlinger at Bailey’s Café, located right next door to the library. The library partnered with the Friends of the Library group, who secured the venue, handled book sales, and provided volunteers for the event. It just happened that the event celebrated a new or recent release from each author, but it also celebrated something remarkable: on a beautiful Tuesday afternoon in the middle of Saratoga’s busy tourist season, a crowd of people, some having traveled across state lines to be there, showed up to talk about books, writing, horror, and libraries. The success of this program is thanks to many people and organizations, including the HWA and its sponsors for spearheading the Summer Scares initiative; HWA Libraries Co-Chairs Konrad Stump and Becky Spratford; and Tor Nightfire, Shortwave Publishing, and CLASH Books for supporting their authors’ participation.

Photo Gallery

Photos: September 21, 2026 - Regular Meeting

×

Summer Scares Panel Celebrates

Five Summer Scares panelists smiling and posing in front of the bar at Bailey’s

Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library Book Sales Table

Jen & Steve from the Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library behind the book sales table for Summer Scares.

Summer Scares Panelists

From L to R: Trevor Oakley (moderator), authors: Christoph Paul, Kyle Kouri, CJ Leede, Michael J. Seidlinger (Photo Credit Sarah D.)

Summer Scares Crowd at Bailey’s Saratoga

The crowd filing in before the start of Summer Scares

Previous Next

Close

Exhibit V.b. - Youth Services Report- Summer 2026

Programming and Outreach

Summer Reading 2026

Photo Gallery

Photos: September 21, 2026 - Regular Meeting

×

Towel model

library patron shows off the towel they earned in the summer reading program

Whalemobile

Whalemobile visits SSPL

Dino Terrariums

Kids are showing off their dino themed terrariums

Dino Sensory

Assemblywoman Woerner reads to children

CPR Class Photo

Fairy house

Fairy house

Movie morning

Patrons play Guess Who

Guess Who was one of the prizes patrons earned for reading during the summer

Mounted Police

George Steele Rocks!

Dino Tea Party

Towel Display

Child Reads

Tang Museum Presentation

Tang museum program

Bubble Party

Jani Poppins

Lizard

zoo lizard

Photo booth

photo booth

Previous Next

Close

Summer programming was all about dinosaurs, nature and having a great time. Some program highlights were definitely the dinosaur tea party, Whalemobile, Tang museum and the Pokemon club kick-off. Alex put together over 200 take and makes, which are so appreciated by families as well as some patrons with visiting relatives. Kristine, Kate and Patty worked exceptionally hard to get a special summer reading party planned over at High Rock Park- Jani Poppins’ bubble truck was especially exciting and Ben and Jerry’s gave us a great deal for everyone to enjoy a scoop. Alex hosted Stories in Sound, our Saratoga Arts Grant program- it was very special for the families to experience live music and she reports that they were particularly entranced by the woodwinds.

Kristine and AnnaRae offered two scavenger hunts over the summer. Many patrons really look forward to these programs, especially because they are so flexible and can be done by anyone at any time.

The reading program had a record number of registrations (999!) and the changes to the incentives were really popular. The towel was an inspired choice of prize and moving it to the middle of the program really incentivized the reluctant and struggling readers. Almost 500 towels were awarded compared to 250 t-shirts in 2025.

AnnaRae cut back on in-person teen programming to focus more on take and makes. She feels that her in-person events often serve the same teens over and over who are already here and wants her programming to have a wider impact. She plans to continue this over the coming months and see who she can reach. She also has been continuing to work on using supplies that were in the teen room before she was hired 3 years ago. Her efforts in sustainability are excellent!

Summer story times were concentrated onto 2 days per week. It seemed to be a just right combination for the participants and while the afternoons could be hit or miss, those who came were appreciative of the option. Alex will be trying out a weekly baby program in the afternoons to see if we can meet the needs of some other folks.

Updates and Projects

Several of the items for the Treehouse Room and Story Room have been ordered with the Nolan memorial funds. Gina is working on signage updates to refresh the Treehouse Room for when the new furniture and toys are installed. The new chairs for the story room are more sensory friendly and quite eye catching. Kristine has provided new literacy tips to focus on phonics for the play space so families get practical advice to start their reading journey early.

Collections and Display

Kid’s displays included: fiction books that are first in series, non-fiction books that have not yet been borrowed, Unearth a Story, Music, Dance, Summer Reads, Sharks, American Adventure month, Things with Wings, and Horses.

Teen displays included: Poolside Reads, New York State of Mind and Road Trips as well as Love on Vacation, 250 Years in the Making and Road Trip.

Throughout summer the collections tend to be heavily used. Librarians focus on keeping materials in decent shape and on shelf. In fall they will begin to weed more heavily.

CE

Kate attended the YSS quarterly board meeting and the NYLA CE committee continues their work.

AnnaRae serves on the YSS Scholarship committee.

Kristine presented on a panel regarding “literacy hubs” sponsored by Brodart to discuss her work with the Decodables- over 100 librarians attended the session live and many more will be able to view the recording.

What we’re reading

librarians like books, did you know?

AnnaRae is reading I Am Not Jessica Chen by Ann Liang and Smoke Gets in Your Eyes & Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty

Kate is reading We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewe

Alex is reading Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell

Kristine is reading Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty and Styx and Stones by Gary Schmidt

Laura is reading Land, by Maggie O’Farrell

Exhibit V.c. - Adult Services August 2026

Service Stats

• Reference Interactions Total: 3,726
• Interlibrary Loans: 25
• Notary Appointments: 34

Digital Resources

Programs

Interesting Additions

• In July, library staff received news of the passing of our retired colleague Cheryl Pepper. In Cheryl’s obituary, loved ones were encouraged to make donations to Saratoga Springs Public Library. We have since received two generous donations in her memory. Acknowledgement letters were sent to all donors, and one donor requested that a separate acknowledgement letter be sent to Cheryl’s husband. All three letters were sent at the beginning of August. 
• Barney (the purple box outside the library) distributed 276 Narcan Kits and 819 Fentanyl Test Strips between 6/1/26-8/18/26.
• The New York Times All Access digital resources saw a 77% increase compared to last month. 
• The most popular languages on Mango in August were French, Spanish, and Polish. 
• Seeds from the seed library continue to go despite the season being too late for some to start right now. Gardeners are welcome to take them for planting next year. The master gardeners from Cornell also provided a list of veggies that can still be started.

What We’re Reading

• Emily is reading Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
  Synopsis: Young adult historical fiction novel that tells the story of a Chinese-American teenager exploring her identity and love for another girl in 1954 San Francisco.
  
  
• Katie is reading Death Upon a Star by Amy Patricia Meade
  Synopsis: Evelyn Galloway gets her big Hollywood break when she is asked to work on Alfred Hitchcock’s latest mystery, but she finds herself in a real-life murder mystery when a new friend is found dead. A good, layered cozy mystery. 
  
  
• Jamie is reading Twisted Shadows by Allie Therin
  Synopsis: The third and final book in an alternate universe trilogy. A fun mix of paranormal mystery, romance, and danger. Reece is an empath who gets caught up in a string of missing and murdered empaths, and he ends up working with Evan, an empath hunter who is basically the last person he should be attracted to—but, of course, things get complicated.
  
  
• Rebecca is reading Two Kinds of Stranger by Steve Cavanaugh
  Synopsis:  I’ve just started this thriller my sister suggested after a long Libby wait –but so far so good! A TikTok influencer is accused of murdering her husband and his mistress. I’m pretty sure she didn’t do it, but I’ll have to wait and see.
  
  
• Caitlin is reading The Sentry by Robert Crais
  Synopsis: In August I realized I only really had the headspace to read P.I. novels set in L.A., so I gave in and read two Elvis Cole/Joe Pike books by Robert Crais.
  
  
• Kali is reading The Dog Stars by Peter Heller
  Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic America, a pilot and his loyal dog struggle to survive in isolation while protecting their fragile way of life from the dangers of a devastated world.

Exhibit V.d. - Operations Report

Solar Bench

The winter’s cold temperatures seemed to take a toll on the storage batteries and after their replacement, it is fully functional again.

Library Grounds

An additional project to the usual outdoor seasonal list was reclaiming some of the old brick walk ways, separating sidewalks and grass areas.

Fire Inspection

We did everything in our control to pass the Fire Inspection, but they found the elevator was not in compliance. Their system showed an inspection from the time of commissioning was not completely processed in their system. After working with Plank Construction and KONE, that information has been corrected and up to date. Otherwise, the inspection was a success and even received positive comments on how clean and clear all the spaces are. Thank you all!

Cooling Tower

Passed the Legionella test and monthly bacteriological tests and continues keeping up with the buildings cooling demands.

Respectfully submitted by Rob Peck, Operations Supervisor

Exhibit VI - Librarians’ and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights

The Librarians’ and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights

Article I: The Right to a Safe, Respectful, and Discrimination-Free Workplace
All library workers have the right to perform their duties in an environment free from harassment, bullying, discrimination, and threats to personal safety.

Article II: The Right to Recognition and Respect for the Librarian’s Role in Fostering Intellectual Freedom
Librarians and library workers shall not be censored, silenced, or punished for upholding
intellectual freedom and professional ethics.

Article III: The Right to Fair Compensation and Ongoing Professional Development
All library workers deserve fair pay, professional respect, and opportunities for continued growth within their field.

Article IV: The Right to Reflect and Respect the Diversity of the Human Experience.
Librarians and library workers shall strive to represent the diversity of their communities in the materials they collect, in the displays they create, and the programs and services that they offer.

Article V: The Right to Protection from Workplace Harassment and Threats
No library worker shall endure intimidation, violence, or bullying from patrons, colleagues, or administrators.

Article VI: The Right to Fair Treatment and Due Process
Library workers shall be guaranteed transparency, fairness, and access to representation in all disciplinary or termination actions.

FAQ: Librarians’ and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights

1. What is the Librarians and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights?
The Librarians and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights is a guiding document that affirms the dignity, rights, and professional responsibilities of everyone who works in libraries. It calls
for fair treatment, equitable pay, safety, respect, and professional freedom for all library employees — regardless of title, tenure, or background.

2. Who created the Bill of Rights?
The original concept and draft were developed by Richard Ashby Jr., Director of the Sharon Hill Public Library and a leader in library equity and inclusion. He shared the initial document with his colleagues in the Professional Group of Directors and Managers for Diversity, who collaboratively refined, word-smithed, and contributed additional sections to strengthen the language and ensure it represented a broad range of library experiences.

3. Why was this Bill of Rights created?
Library workers are often the foundation of access to information, lifelong learning, an community service — yet they can face inequities, safety concerns, and professional disrespect. This Bill of Rights was developed to protect and empower those who uphold the mission of libraries and ensure that library workplaces reflect the values of democracy, inclusion, and intellectual freedom.

4. Who does it apply to?
It applies to all library workers — librarians, paraprofessionals, assistants, pages, technicians, administrators, and support staff — across public, academic, school, and special libraries. The document recognizes that everyone who serves the public in a library contributes to its mission and deserves fair treatment and respect.

5. What are the main principles of the Bill of Rights?
• The document outlines several core rights and responsibilities:
• Intellectual Freedom – To make professional judgments free from censorship or outside pressure.
• Equitable Pay & Conditions – Fair wages, benefits, and workloads that reflect each employee’s contribution.
• Professional Respect – Recognition for the expertise and experience of all library workers.
• Safe and Inclusive Workplaces – Freedom from discrimination, harassment, and unsafe conditions.
• Professional Development – Access to learning opportunities and career growth.
• Voice and Representation – Inclusion in decision-making and policy development.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – Commitment to ensuring that libraries are workplaces where all people are valued and supported.

6. How does it relate to the Library Bill of Rights?
The Library Bill of Rights protects the public’s right to information. The Librarians and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights protect the rights of the people who make that access possible. Together, they create a foundation for equitable, open, and democratic library service.

7. How was the collaborative process conducted?
After Richard Ashby Jr. drafted the initial framework, members of the Professional Group of Directors and Managers for Diversity reviewed and refined it collectively. Their process included wordsmithing, expanding definitions, and ensuring that the final document reflected the lived experiences of diverse library professionals across roles and regions.

8. How can libraries use or adopt the Bill of Rights?
Libraries and organizations can:
• Formally endorses or adopts it through their boards or administrative bodies.
• Incorporate its principles into staff policies, codes of conduct, or union contracts.
• Discuss it during staff training or strategic planning sessions.
• Use it as an advocacy tool when addressing workplace equity and inclusion.

9. How does it benefit library staff and communities?
When the rights of library workers are protected:
• Morale and retention improve.
• Staff feel empowered to serve their communities fully.
• Libraries become safer, more inclusive, and more responsive to public needs.
• Strong staff rights lead to stronger libraries — and better service for all.

10. How can individuals support the Librarians and Library Workers’ Bill of Rights?
• Share the document with colleagues and library boards.
• Advocate for its adoption in your organization.
• Educate others on the connection between worker rights and public service quality.
• Join professional groups that champion equity and inclusion.

Source document: The-Librarians-and-Library-Workers-Bill-of-Rights_June-2026.pdf

Exhibit VII. - Draft Program Policy

Program Selection Policy - Draft

The purpose of this statement on program selection is to establish policies to guide staff and to inform the public about the principles upon which library programs are developed. A policy cannot replace the judgment of librarians, but stating objectives and criteria will assist them in choosing a wide selection of programming ideas. The goal in program selection is to provide informational, educational, cultural, and recreational events for the Saratoga Springs Public Library community.

Responsibility for Programming

Final responsibility for the selection and development of the programs lies with the Library Director who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Library’s Board of Trustees. The Director authorizes librarians and other qualified staff to apply this policy in implementing and creating programs. The Head of the Youth Services Department oversees the library’s children’s and young adult programs, the Head of Adult Services oversees the library’s adult programs and the Head of Access and Outreach oversees outreach programs to the community.

Not all events in meeting rooms are library sponsored programs.

The content of programs or meetings by outside organizations held in the meeting rooms, according to the Meeting Room Use Policy and Guidelines, have not been reviewed or approved by the Library, and organizations booking the rooms are solely responsible for such content.

Objectives

The library recognizes an immediate duty to make programs available for the enlightenment and recreation of the community. In addition, the library strives to offer programs that reflect the diversity of our community and the world, offering varying topics within the limitations of space, staffing, and budget.

Criteria of Selection

Selection of programs are based on these specific criteria:

• Community needs and interests.
• Support all types of literacy (ex. Early, Digital, Language).
• Recommendations of reviews from professional colleagues and organizations.
• Reputation and qualifications of the presenter, performer, author, etc.
• Literary, artistic, historical, scientific, or intellectual merit.
• Price and availability of library resources (space, staff, and technology).
• Suitability of subject and style to intended audience.
• The Library is committed to applying sustainability practices.
• Librarians may work with other agencies, organizations, institutions, or individuals to create programs that serve the community.
• Community members may suggest programs using our program proposal form located on our website.

The importance or weight of each of these factors will vary from one program to another; other programs may be considered, and may be judged differently for adults, teens, and children.

Access to Programs

Library sponsored events are always free and open to the public. The library may restrict program attendance to district residents as deemed necessary.

• Programs can be limited to specific age groups for the safety of the participants or for the intended purpose of the program.
• Program attendance can be limited based on room size, supplies, and appropriateness to the activity.
• Early literacy and programming for babies, toddlers and preschoolers are listed by age (i.e. 3-5 with a caregiver).
• School aged programming is by grade (i.e. grades K-6).
• Teen programming is grade 7 and up, but can be restricted within that range i.e. gr 9-12 if appropriate.
• Parents and legal guardians have the responsibility to monitor the use of the library by their children.
• The Library does not act in loco parentis and is not responsible for inadvertent viewing at the library.

Registration

• Registration should only be used when it is necessary to purchase materials, meet a performer maximum or for a specific need.
• Registration information will be collected and used only fro that program. Personal data will be routinely removed, leaving only necessary statistical information.
• In the event a program is cancelled, efforts will be made to let the public know and registered participants will be notified. Registrants are expected to cancel if unable to attend.

Acessibility and Accommodations

The Library is committed to meeting the accessibility needs of all programs attendees and will respond to requests for accommodation to the best of our ability.

Censorship, Intellectual Freedom and Challenges to Programs

The Board of Library Trustees of the Saratoga Springs Public Library includes as a part of its statement on materials selection and collection development the American Library Association’s “Library Bill of Rights,” and these other statements regarding intellectual freedom:

• Freedom to Read Statement
• Freedom to View Statement
• Free Access to Libraries for Minors

The library rejects any censorship of programs which meet the criteria of this statement. The Library will abide by the policies contained in its Censorship Statement. Objections to any program should be made in writing and will be evaluated according to the Library’s Guidelines and Procedure for Reconsideration of Library Programs.

Revision of Policy

This policy will be revised as times and circumstances require.

Guidelines and Procedures for Reconsideration of Library Programs

The Library will re-evaluate the selection of a program upon submission of a properly completed Request for Reconsideration of Library Programs form. These forms are available at the Information Desk. Forms will be accepted from registered cardholders who are residents of the Library’s legal service area.

Forms must be completed in their entirety, including the date, and the cardholder’s name, address, phone number or email, library card number, signature, and rationale for reconsideration and requested action.
The Director, in consultation with the appropriate Department Head and library workers, will make a decision regarding the program’s disposition. The Director’s determination may be appealed to the Library Board of Trustees, whose decision is final and binding. The program will remain on the calendar during the reconsideration process.

Future requests for reevaluating the same program will be addressed only if the grounds for reconsideration are substantially different from previous requests.

A good faith effort will be made to follow the procedures below. Those requesting reconsideration should be aware of time constraints from when the form is completed and when the program is scheduled.

Procedures

1. Completed forms should be delivered, as appropriate, to the Head of Adult Services, Head of Youth Services, or Head of Access and Outreach with a copy to the Director and Assistant Director.
2. Within two weeks there will be an initial assessment of the request and a written response using the contact information provided in the form.
3. If the cardholder is not satisfied with the Department Head’s assessment, they may appeal in writing to the Director within two weeks. In such cases, the Director will convene a committee of appropriate professional librarians to review the request.
4. The committee will consider the program’s critical reception, demand by the public, and judge the overall merit of the program based on the breadth of programs that the library provides throughout the year, rather than as a standalone program. The committee will prepare a report for the Director of its recommendation regarding the program.
5. Informed by the committee’s recommendation, the Director will make a decision on the disposition of the program in question, and will inform the cardholder in writing within thirty days.
6. If the cardholder is not satisfied with the Director’s decision, they may appeal in writing to the Library Board of Trustees within two weeks.
7. The Board will respond in writing, generally by the conclusion of the second regularly scheduled meeting follow receipt of the appeal. The Board’s decision is final and binding.

We suggest you read the Saratoga Springs Public Library Program Selection Policy before completing this form. Copies are available at the Information Desk and the Children’s Room desk.