PCPL plans literacy program

Director Grier Carson announced at the recent Putnam County Public Library Board meeting that several departments within the library have "all come together to propose a large-scale adult literacy program."

The purpose of the program will be to "address various aspects of literacy" among all adults in Putnam County. The reference, circulation, youth services, programming and marketing departments have begun collaborating, but specific plans will not be finalized until 2017, when more funding will be available.

Last month, Director Carson and staff from each of the aforementioned departments attended an Adult Literacy planning retreat, where the only shortage was staffing, funds and current facilities and resources. The team has also met with several local organizations, including Area 30 Career Center, Family Support Services and representatives from the Monroe County Public Library's VITAL program.

"Everyone is eager to develop something unlike anything else in Putnam County," Director Carson said, "and the need is certainly great."

The library plans to launch two small-scale adult literacy programs this year to get a better understanding of how to proceed. Until then, the next steps will be presented at the next board meeting on July 20 at 6 p.m.

In other developments:

-- Director Carson reported that "library usage has been quite strong, as it was last summer." He also reported that the Overdrive program, which allows teachers access to materials for classrooms, has seen a shift to e-books. Also, there have been no bike checkouts yet, but they are available.

In other business:

-- The library has not been able to install the pilot camera yet, but the board approved the accompanying policy. It can be read on the library's website.

-- The board approved appointing Conny Eitzman, formerly the circulation assistant, as circulation manager. It also approved appointing Aaron Schwartz as reference assistant.

-- The board approved the adoption of the state-mandated internal control standards and training.

-- The board designated President Alan Zerkel as an authorized bank signer. Vice President Diana LaViolette and Treasurer David Taylor are also authorized bank signers.

-- Kayle Flegan was introduced as a new board member, and the board approved an extended vacation for an unnamed staff member.

The next board meeting will be July 20 at 6 p.m. in the Kiwanis Conference Room.