Bob said the Library is safe and in business. They have had challenges going back and forth from being open to the public to closed. They are now operating as a drive by format. You can order books via the phone or on-line and arrange to pick up your order at a designated date and time. Full access is available at the front door.

 

The Library CEO and staff have been very adaptable in these constantly changing times.

 

There has been no problems at the Brighton library.

 

Books are returned in the drop box. There are currently no late fees. Books taken from the drop box are quarantined for minimum 72 hours. They have a room stacked with books in quarantine before being put back in circulation.

 

There is a new devise that can sanitize a book in 60 seconds with ultra violet rays. They are considering purchasing one with the Municipality at cost of about $8,000. They believe it could be used after the pandemic.

 

In Brighton, out of a population of 11,000 there are 7,200 holding library cards. During the pandemic fewer people are taking out books, but those who are are taking more.

 

They worked for 10 years to upgrade the library and now we can't go in.

 

Digital books and services are also available. They have 4 Kindles available to borrow but little use.

 

Bob has been on the Library board for 13 years, 11 as Chairman. R Murray is also on the Board. Municipal Council reviews nominations for the library board and selects members, sometimes poorly. The library's budget comes from the Municipality, however, the board is a separate entity. Library employees are hired by and paid by the Library.

 

The lobby into the library is joint with the Municipality. There is free Wi-fi in the lobby, so it has become and lunch room for high school students. Unfortunately, some of these students have poor language and leave a lot of garbage. They now cut off the Wi-fi at 8pm. Vandalism is a problem.

 

The Brighton library is one of the busiest in the District.

 

There is a satilite site in Codrington for the library, but it is very small.

 

R Chris thanked Bob for his presentation.