News for the Week

• The KPL Innovations Grants review team got together and scored six staff proposals for projects to enhance our programs and services. We're delighted to report that all these projects are funded:

Tiny Libraries, a program proposed by Heather to provide Kindles loaded with children's books to after school care programs in Kenosha.
Inspiring Creativity, a project proposed by Lisa Langsdorf to purchase awesome technology equipment to enhance her outreach STEAM programming for kids and seniors.
Enhanced Patron Counters, proposed by Rob, Brent, Max, and Lin to install and program devices that will greatly improve how we count people coming and going.
Jake's project, Cell Phone Charger Stations will be on the Friends wish list for funding.
Marcia's project Biblioboard is on hold while we try and persuade a collective purchase of this software with SHARE libraries. Biblioboard will allow us to design a community project where local artists can share their music, writing, and film with the world.
Brandi's project that proposed a new KPL logo will be funded at a later date when our full marketing plan is ready for prime time.

Many thanks to our nine superstars who brought six outstanding ideas forward!

• We have four proposals from impressive architectural firms to conduct an Historic Structure Report for the Simmons building. The Board will determine which firm to hire, and the city will pay for a large portion of the report. A matching grant from the Wisconsin Historical Society (WHS) will cover the costs the city cannot. This is a six month project that results in a list of projects to complete to restore the building to its original glory and an associated timetable for prioritization. Working with WHS, we will seek private foundation dollars to complete the restoration work.
• I'll be in Seattle next Wed-Fri to attend a Strive Together convention, which you know as Building Our Future here in Kenosha. The library has become a strong team member in this initiative to ensure student success and I will be listening to understand how we can further impact the success of this important work.
• For those of you on our insurance plan, don't forget your upcoming HSA appointment.
• Board meeting Tuesday night at NS. We'll be discussing the identification we require for new library cards and how we can modify requirements to expand library service to those we've excluded through current rules. Board meetings are public meetings, and you are encouraged to attend and watch our governance in action.
• Please continue to promote our fabulous programs! Our programs staff is amazing the community- I hear it all the time when I'm out and about. Be sure to tell everyone you know and attend yourself when possible.
• This week's Bright Spot is our new custodian, Abby Metz. Abby, in such a short time, the staff is already singing your praises. SW has never looked better, and we are in awe of the fabulous job you are doing! (especially the family restroom in YFS! It actually smells good :)) THANK YOU!

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!