Library summer reading program a success

DAYTON–The Columbia County Rural Library Board were informed of the progress of the summer reading program; digitized Dayton Chronicle files; a $2,500 grant; and other library business tasks during the July 15 meeting.

The Summer Reading Program is in full swing at the Dayton Memorial Library. As reported by Director Ellen Brigham they have over 30 kids participating of various ages.

The library had its first virtual author talk with others scheduled each week. People can participant in person at the library or remotely. Past talks can also be accessed to watch at a different time. Nearly a dozen children attended the reading of a book "The 12 Days of Summer" by local Walla Walla author Sherri Maret, who also led the kids in nature-themed activities.

Brigham reported the first set of the digitized files for the Dayton Chronicle have been received. They will work on getting them hosted on the Washington State Library's "Washington Digital Newspapers" website.

A grant was given from Blue Mountain Community Foundation of $2,500 that will be applied towards the wi-fi hotspot fees. The library has partnered with the Friends of the Library to offer summer lunches for kids three days a week, as well as nutritional snacks.

In other business, Brigham advised the trustees that two staff will be attending a leadership cohort conference. One is by invitation and will be paid for, the other will be covered under the travel expense budget. She said she is investigating less expensive options for tablets and Chromebooks that are internet ready they lend out to patrons.

A series of items were up for review and approval: the Purchasing Policy, the Small Works Roster, the Collection Development Policy, and the Library of Things Policy. All but the latter was tabled because they had additional edits that needed more time for the Board or the attorney to review before approval. The board approved moving $100,000 from the operating budget into the County investment.

The Collection Development Policy had additional minor edits that were proposed along with the review and suggested edits to the appendices of which the Board agreed to take the month to review the contents to decide at the next meeting on August 19.

All trustees were present with Jay Ball on Zoom. Several members of the public attended.