No open carry allowed on library premises

DAYTON–the Columbia County Rural Library District Board of Trustees approved the small works roster and a revision to the Public Code of Conduct to disallow the open carry of weapons according to a new law; were given the Director's and Financial Reports for April from Ellen Brigham; reviewed part of Chapter 6 of the Collection Development Policy which covers receiving gifts, as well as the Purchasing Policy; and discussed making Narcan available at the library; concrete work bids for the front of the library; and Hotspot lending to private businesses at the May 20 meeting.

Brigham attended a seminar for small works rosters given by the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) because of the requirement as of July 2 for all government entities that perform public works to have one. As a result, the Board approved Resolution 2024-2 for MRSC Rosters for Small Public Works and Consultants for the total expenses of a single project up to $350,000, and consulting and vendor services developed and maintained by MRSC through MRSC Rosters.

MSRC, in turn publishes the roster in the local newspaper to solicit contractors. Bids can then be received in response to the roster from approved contractors and the library board will award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder if $150,000 or more, otherwise the director can award bids that are less than that amount. These changes were reflected in the revisions of the Purchasing Policy which was approved during the meeting.

The board approved changes to the patron code of conduct to include the prohibition of the open carry of firearms or weapons which is required by law per RCW 8.41.270 as of June. Libraries are one of several public places they are outlawed. The library will post a sign clearly stating they are not allowed by law.

Also approved was keeping Narcan on the premises to treat opioid overdoses. This was donated from the Friends of the Library. Brigham assured the trustees the full-time staff is trained to administer it as part of their CPR and first aid certification.

In other business, a bid for concrete work for the front of the library from Tucannon River Construction was approved by the Board. Also discussed was the use of the library Hotspots by private businesses. Trustee Dale Walling suggested that because they are paid for with public money, it is not appropriate to lend them out to private businesses. Ball countered that it depends on the use – whether it be for business use or for public use. It was agreed that they would consult with the lawyer about it to help determine how to move forward.

Brigham presented her report and said they had 30 attendees for the Family Storytime this month. They continue the gardening program and have offered tow hands-on classes. Patrons can also come in at their convenience to start seeds in the library greenhouse. Brigham attended the school's Cinco de Libro event where she was able to help pass out free new books to kids and give information about library programs including the summer reading program. A Mother's Day craft session was offered and 14 participated in decorating birdhouses. A second Humanities Washington lecture will be on May 31 with Professor Amanda Van Lanen on the subject, Big Apples, Big Business: How Washington Became the Apple State.

All board members were present though Jay Ball attended remotely, and about 15 were in attendance in person or online.

The next meeting is June 17.