Goshen Public Library & Historical Society | 203 Main St Goshen, NY 10924 | Phone: 845.294.6606 | Fax: 845.294.7158 | RCLS Member
Youth, the Internet and libraries
By plnkh | April 17, 2008
Catching up on my professional reading, I’ve come across 2 articles of note about under-25s and Internet resources in Library Hotline. The first article (1/14/08) summarizes an Idaho report “Perceptions of Idaho’s Digital Natives in Libraries” (for the full report visit libraries.idaho.gov/files/default/2007-digital-native-rpt.pdf ). Research on the habits of Idaho’s under 25 population (those raised with the Internet as a fact of life) indicates that these young people believe “that a library, like a bookstore, should be a place to hang out with their friends, but they also perceive the library as a place for serious work, quiet and books. And though they typically begin an information search on the Internet, they believe information obtained through books and libraries is much more trustworthy than information found online.” The goal of the study was to determine how best to reach young patrons, and it would appear that the findings indicate libraries - at least in Idaho - are not dead, and have a secondary role as the community gathering place (the primary role remaining a place for books, quiet study and research.
The second article is (1/28/09) “Google Generation Youth are Poor Researchers: BL Reports” which summarizes a British study information Behaviours of the Researcher of the Future (www.jisc.ac.uk/news/stories/2008/01/googlegen.aspx) This study concludes that young people are no more informationally literate now than they were before the Internet. Speedy web searches reveal little time devoted to evaluating resources for “relevance, accuracy or authority”. Most teachers and librarians can tell you that “young people typically have a poor understanding of their information needs, and therefore, find it difficult to develop effective search strategies.” They tend to use unverified information found through search engines, rather than library databases (the reference collection on-line). Librarians and teachers have major roles in educating students about effective searching and evaluating resources whether those resources are printed or digital.
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News from Colorado
By plnkh | April 14, 2008
Library Board president Patty Garnett is vacationing in Colorado. Like most library lovers, she includes libraries in her itinerary and her reading matter. She recently sent me an article from Durango Magazine -”A New ‘Heart’ for Durango” by Indiana Reed. Durango is a city of under 14,000 in LaPlata County. The article states:
“By the end of 2008 residents and visitors alike will be enjoying the long-debated and much anticipated new Durango Public Library - a new gathering place and ‘heart’ for the community.” “… a 43,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility.” “… the library of the future.”
“I’ve heard the question,’… because of computers, digital media and the Internet, are libraries becoming dinosaurs’ ?” says Robert Kunkel, Durango’s downtown business and promotions specialist. “On the contary, new and exciting opportunities abound for the libraries of tomorrow. The right comment should be” let’s capitalize on this once-in-a-century opportunity.”
“On a national level the evolution has been termed the “Barnes & Noble-ing” of the American public library… as comfortable, social community centers.”
“The promenade [to the new library] will promote a communal environment including book displays, art exhibits and comfortable seating areas. A coffee kiosk will be featured near the entrance…”
“The Durango Public Library will be the first new municipal building in the city of Durango to be built to LEED…standards.” “It’s been a community effort all the way along.”
Sound familiar? The arguments for (and against) library growth are the same nationally. It’s comforting to be reminded that libraries are alive and well, and are growing in Durango, CO; Nyack and Smithtown, NY.
Topics: General | No Comments »
Now what?
By plnkh | April 8, 2008
The library referendum was soundly rejected by the voters on March 12. The turnout of over 2600 voters for a library initiative was huge, and although devastating was a remarkable example of democracy in action. The passage of those voters through our small building went smoothly thanks to the efforts of two volunteers: library colleague and spouse Bob Devino and trustee Janet Markiewicz who were at their posts all day long.
The question we have heard repeatedly is what now? The Library Board has no alternate plan to unveil. The most pressing order of business is preparation of the FY 2008-9 budget which will be voted on in June. At that time the community will be electing 3 trustees (one for a two year term, and two for three year terms). As least two of those seats will be filled by new candidates, as two of the incumbents are not seeking re-election. Once the new Board is convened, it can begin to determine what the voters meant when they voted no.
We have heard many different opinions in that regard, including many that acknowledged the need for a new library. The building was too big; it cost too much; it had too many extras; it was too sudden; there wasn’t enough information; the plans were incomplete; the timing was wrong because the economy is so unstable; no new taxes. We are all listening and making notes. The challenge is to be creative in reaching out to the two-thirds of you who voted no on March 12. We know we have to try multiple approaches to enlist your help in defining “NO”.
Topics: Building | No Comments »
A cafe and a used bookstore
By plnkh | March 6, 2008
In making suggestions for amenities to be included in their new library, a coffee shop was high on the list for many residents. Thinking of their experiences at many bookstores, museums and other regional libraries, they recognized that a cafe in the library, a place where people often spend many hours at a time - is a good idea. Goshen’s proposed new library is next to a park, at the north end of the village where there are no other cafes. The library is open on weekends, when families might be enjoying the park and the library cafe could provide a welcome oasis.
An important, yet overlooked aspect of a cafe is its income generating possibility. Newburgh Free Library has a tiny, staff run coffee shop in its foyer, which is a popular amenity and makes about $1200 a month. Your tax money will not be used to buy coffee and snacks and pay food service staff. If the cafe is included in the final building plan, an outside vendor would be sought to set it up and run it under contract with the library.
Also in the building program is an area for the Friends of the library to operate a used bookstore. The proceeds of the Friends booksales already support the summer reading club (a value of $2500 - $3000 per year). With an accessible space in which to sort and display their offerings, Friends support might grow to compare to that of the Thrall Library Friends who donate about $20,000 a year for library programs and services.
In addition to Newburgh, public libraries in Binghamton, Saratoga, Albany, Rochester, Buffalo, Princeton, Suffern (all of which I have visited) have cafes which support the library and provide library patrons a place to meet, read, compute and refresh. Many of those libraries also have Friends stores. These libraries are vibrant, responsive centers enhancing the quality of life for residents and serving as a destination for visitors to their communities.
Topics: Building | No Comments »
What will the building look like?
By plnkh | February 22, 2008
A comment on my last posting is deserving of full attention. The writer has asked about the status of the library’s relationship with its architect and if the public should be concerned about this.
In August 2007, because of changes in the nature of the project, the Library board voted to negotiate the termination of its existing contract with its architect (Peter Hoffmann). The Board also voted to request new proposals for the design and construction of the building, based on the building program and established budget, should the project be approved by the voters.
Mr. Hoffmann had been retained in 1994 when the Library Board was beginning to consider its options for meeting the Library’s space needs. He helped the Library evaluate sites for a new building, prepared the 2003 space needs analysis, helped articulate the building program and developed a conceptual plan for the purposes of the vote to illustrate that program. Details of contractual negotiations between the Library and any party are not public information. Contracts, once executed, are public information under the Freedom of Information Law.
Neither the NYS Education Department, nor DASNY expect their agencies to develop complete design documents prior to securing voter approval for a public works project. Schematic and construction design development are labor intensive, costly services. The Library project before the voters is developed as far as is usual and practical. The Board has received comments from member of the public on the conceptual design and has planned to invite general community input on the appearance and layout of the building prior to approving a final design. Factors including interest rates, community input and the completion of the Environmental Assessment will all impact the final design of the building. There is no point in spending time (and operating funds) on the design details of a building for which there is no approved funding.
The public is being asked to approve bonding of $19,675,000, with a maximum annual tax levy of $1,360,00 for the indebtedness, to construct a new library on five acres of land adjacent to the Salesian Park. The building will include 28,000 square feet of public space for library services and offices. It will include designated spaces for children, teens, adults, public computers, meetings, local history. It will include a cafe if a vendor is found to run it. It will include a basement to house the HVAC and future expansion ( if the site and budget allow). It will use green technology (geothermal heating, solar panels, recycled materials, automated lighting and bathroom fixtures). The drawings on our web site should illustrate to you that we want a building that will reflect Goshen’’s architectural heritage and merge well with the park.
The architectural firm which receives the contract to design the building will do so based on the building program and budget presented for the referendum.
The Library Board was elected to ensure that the residents of the school district receive the library services they require, and that library operations comply with applicable state laws and regulations. If you are confident that your elected board has done so, you have no cause for concern. The Library is not the first, nor will it be the last, to switch architects during project development.
Topics: Building | No Comments »
Why is the library referendum vote being held in the Library?
By plnkh | February 7, 2008
There’s been some talk around town about the location of the upcoming building referendum vote for the library on Wednesday, March 12th. The vote will take place at the library from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. because all Goshen Public Library votes have taken place there since we became a school district public library in 1984. The connection between purpose and place is fixed in the minds of Goshen’s voters and it would be confusing to hold the vote someplace else.
But, we didn’t come to this conclusion lightly. The Library Board deliberated in several lengthy sessions about moving the vote to another location. The Board determined that the lack of parking and difficulty of access are facts of life to library patrons, and that voters who are not familiar with the library would benefit from the opportunity to evaluate those concerns first hand.
The Library’s lack of space is challenging but we are implementing plans that will accommodate traffic flow in and out of the building. There will be three voting machines as well as paper ballots to accommodate voter turnout. To alleviate parking, volunteers are being drafted to drive voters to the polls. If you need a ride, call Ken Tschan (615-1242) to schedule one.
Absentee ballot applications for voters who will be out of town or who can’t get to the library are available at the library and on our website (goshenpubliclibrary.org). Applications must be mailed in seven days before the vote March 12th vote or can be dropped off at the library until the day before the vote. As determined by NYS Election Law, ballots will be available for mailing to applicants 30 days prior to the vote. Ballots must be returned to the Library by 5 pm on the day of the vote.
A special edition of the Library newsletter containing details of the project being proposed and funding being sought will be mailed to all households in the school district in February.
It is our hope that if the voters approve the referendum, the new Library—a public building that will be visible, accessible and have ample parking—will become a regular polling place for Goshen for all elections just as the Nanuet, New City, Pearl River and Spring Valley libraries are.
Topics: Building | 1 Comment »
How much will the proposed new library cost?
By plnkh | February 7, 2008
The proposed new library will be funded through the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). The total project cost (the maximum debt to be incurred) being put before the voters is $19,675,000. This figure includes the land, site development, construction, professional services (architecture, engineering, construction management, legal), furniture and equipment, moving, in 2009 (the year in which construction is projected to begin) dollars as well as the bonding costs. Anticipated cost escalation of 8 % per year is also included. The budget for the project was developed by Wolf and Company - Construction Cost and Management Consultants.
The Library, which has no legal authority either to collect it’s own taxes, or to sell it’s own bonds, has chosen to work through the Dormitory Authority (a state agency established to oversee construction projects for colleges, and not-for-profits) because it allows for bonding over 30 years at interest rates comparable to those available to the school district; interest on proceeds of the bond sale invested prior to payout will be payable to the library project; and the school district, coping with it’s own growth issues, is absolved of any involvement in the library project.
The debt service will be spread over 30 years. The maximum annual tax levy for the debt service (principal and interest) being put before the voters is $1,350,000. This translates into a maximum tax payment of approximately $194 per year for a homeowner in the Goshen Central School District whose house has a fair market value of $400,000. This cost for the debt service will be added to the current tax levy, so this same home owner, now paying a library tax of $164, would pay a hypothetical total library tax of $358 per year. A projected operating budget for the new building is in development and will be made available shortly.
The Library Board realizes that this is a big commitment on the part of the community. This once in a century opportunity to invest in Goshen’s future will enable the Library to fulfill its commitment to provide comprhensive library services in an energy-efficient, cost effective, ADA compliant, safe facility.
The Library is also currently engaged in a capital campaign to help reduce the amount of debt to be incurred for the project. Private donors and grant sources are being identified and contacted . Funds in hand before the sale of the bonds will be used to reduce the amount of the debt, unless specifically earmarked for enhancements to the project. Funds received when the building is complete can be used to reduce the tax levy for the debt service if not specifically earmarked for enhancements to the project.
For the most current information on the library project visit the Library’s website goshenpubliclibrary.org.
Topics: Building | No Comments »
The home stretch
By plnkh | January 31, 2008
We are heading into the home stretch regarding the vote on funding for the new building. Last week we began making public presentations to community groups. There is a wealth of information we can communicate, paring it down to a 15 - 20 minute presentation is a real challenge. We also have had requests for information that is not yet available. At present we are working on the estimated tax levy for the projected first year operating budget, and waiting for a few answers from DASNY regarding opportunities to pay down the debt service. New information will be made available on the web site once it is complete.
The downturn in the economy is actually a positive for public projects. Interest rates are at record lows, making it a good time to bond, and construction employment opportunities are welcome to many area employers. The maximum cost to the taxpayers for debt service on the new library, is still a small amount of money. A house in the school district, with a fair market value of $400,000 pays now pays a tax of $164 a year for library operations. Add to that $194 for debt service, and you have a tax levy of $358. Compare that to your total tax bill. In the village of Goshen that current $164 is about 2% of the total taxes. And the library provides a variety of services to benefit every man, woman and child who lives in the district.
If personal income is shrinking, the Library is a good investment because it offers a smorgasbord of educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for all ages. (One resident was thrilled to discover that museum passes - good for a family of up to four-are now available, at no cost, at the Library. “It costs $25 to get into the Met!”)
So if you have to cut back on your Netflix subscription, or purchases from amazon.com, or attendance at movies, plays and concerts, the Library has something on offer to fill the gap. You pay your library tax once a year and you may use its services as heavily as you choose at no additional cost. Everyone gains when you share resources and the Library is your gateway to sharing the resources of other libraries in the region. As Anne Herbert stated in The Next Whole Earth Catalog, “Libraries will get you through times of no money better than money will get you through times of no libraries. ..”
And Goshen’s present 90 year old library does not meet state standards for public libraries, is not ADA compliant, does not conform to current building codes, and is just plain too small, so the community is being asked to invest in a building to serve it for the 21st century. I hope you will become informed about the need. Read the background and details of the project provided on the web site. Look for the district wide mailing of a special edition of Reference Point devoted to the building in February. Then vote on March 12 at the Library.
Topics: Building | No Comments »
Quality of life
By plnkh | November 26, 2007
I grew up on Staten Island, the forgotten borough of NYC, the one that still had a couple of working farms in the early 1960s (can you believe it?) In NYC you don’t get to vote on schools, libraries, firehouses, sewers - they are all covered in the tax bill along with a lot of other things that make communities great - playgrounds, parks, pools, museums, public transportation, garbage collection. In a city it is understood that the government is going to provide a wealth of services to be shared by the residents because it makes sense, and there isn’t enough room (or money) for everyone to provide everything for themselves, and a lot of folks can’t.
Lots of city transplants, like me, are mystified when they move up to the suburbs of Orange County. You may find yourself in a town that has no school district (like Wallkill) or library (Minisink), or your school district may belong to a neighboring town even though your town has one (Sugar Loaf/Warwick); your mail may come from another town’s post office, and you are empowered to vote on a host of things covered by law that you don’t understand.
Most of us transplants moved here for a better quality of life for ourselves and our children: a slower pace, unpaved and undeveloped open space; a safe community; good schools with a lower pupil/teacher ratio; a library to support self education and leisure time activity. That quality of life brings with it its own burden of responsibility. You can either trust the elected officials who run your municipality, schools and library; or you have to educate yourselves on all of the issues so you are an informed voter.
In March you will be asked to vote on a tax levy for a new library building. The building project has been evolving for 14 years, and the Board is unanimous in its belief that it represents the best plan to meet the community’s needs for the foreseeable future. It will be a minimum of 3 years after a positive vote before the building will be open to the public. The building will be paid for over 30 years, so that new families and businesses moving into the school district in that time span will share the cost of the tax levy (which will be redistributed annually based on the school district’s ratables). If construction is deferred, the cost of the proposed building will escalate at an anticipated 8% annually.
Growth is inexorable. In 1994 construction costs were $85 per sq. ft. In 2007 they are projected at over $400. In the past 10 years the student population of the school district has grown 30%. In the past 6 years the population of Orange County has grown more than 10%. Those of us who live on “country” roads are painfully aware of the houses that have sprung up in the past several years and the increased traffic whizzing by our homes. We shoulder the cost of schools, libraries, fire houses and sewer plants for the same reason that we came here - they improve the quality of our community.
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And now it’s November
By plnkh | November 13, 2007
They tell me that when you keep a blog you need to update it regularly. That’s not so easy to do when you pause for a breath and notice that suddenly it’s November! Since July, when we presented a conceptual drawing for the new building we have been working steadily towards presenting a referendum in March 2008. I keep hoping that our patrons will jump into the conversation and that will keep me on track.
In later July we learned that the governor had signed the bill enabling us to be funded through the Dormitory Authority. This state agency provides funding for construction at state colleges, not-for-profit health institutions, museums, libraries and schools. It enables us to spread the bond repayment over 30 years rather than 20, reducing the annual cost to the taxpayers. It also keeps the library project completely separate from the school district’s project so it will be clear to you on your school tax bill where your tax dollars are going.
Over the summer we completed the Environmental Assessment Form required for the project. The report is out for review, but there are no major areas of concern. We also retained a construction cost consultant, D.W. Wolfe to provide us a preliminary construction budget (the “hard” costs); and have been working with owner’s representative Nick Michailescu to develop the the “soft” costs. And we have been working throughout with Communication Services to develop materials which will make the proposed project clear to you.
Throughout it has been a learning experience for all of us. The first step wass to understand just how much we didn’t know; the second was to seek the expertise we lack; the third is to continually evaluate our understanding and our relationships with the experts we have hired.
Aside from all this building stuff, we have successfully concluded another summer reading club; we have added two new services - museum passes and disk cleaning; we have upgraded all of our public computers; we are developing a homework help program to pair students willing to volunteer their time to help other students succeed. Teen librarian Jenni Sweeney was a discussion leader at the regional Fall Into Books conference and I presented a program on library campaigns with Libby Post of Communication Services at the New York Library Association conference.
Topics: Building, General | No Comments »
