April was a very busy month at the library, as we prepared the building for spring hosted some exciting performers, announced the new Artist-in-Residence program! Please read on for further updates for April, and usage statistics for March.
Building and Grounds
The Library Director met with a customer care manager from Tustin HVAC on April 1 to discuss the libraryās HVAC needs and possible solutions including upgrading the libraryās temperature control system.
The project to replace the landscaping, fencing, and decking surrounding the outdoor air conditioner and chiller unit commenced on April 12. The libraryās landscaper removed the shrubs, most of which were already dead or dying.
The Westfield Green Team collaborated with Westfield Cub Scout Pack 171 to prepare approximately 200 square feet of new garden beds near the libraryās outdoor patio. The areas were covered with newspapers and mulch, in preparation for a planting of approximately 200 native plants in September.
In the Library
The libraryās main meeting room was filled to capacity on April 10 for the Hale Speaker Series lecture A Life in Museums, presented by Timothy Rub. A Westfield High School alumnus (Class of 1970), Timothy Rub has served as the Director of four major art museums, including Dartmouth College, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Philadelphia over a 39-year career.
The next Hale Speaker Series lecture will be The Longevity of the Westfield Leader, presented by Lauren Barr, on October 9. Barr is the current owner and publisher of The Westfield Leader, and a Westfield High School alumnus.
On April 9, the library celebrated Jazz Appreciation Month with a performance by the Bradford Hayes Trio. The group was led by saxophonist Bradford Hayes, a native of Dinwiddy County, Virginia, who has been a force on the local jazz scene for many years.
Both events were livestreamed, and the recordings can be viewed on the libraryās YouTube channel.
Technology
In mid-April, the library began experiencing WiFi disruptions on the 2nd floor, likely caused by the high level of Internet traffic utilizing the 2nd floor access point. To remedy this problem, a dedicated Internet connection was installed in the Local History Room on April 19. The library has also solicited quotes for a more robust access point to handle the higher level of WiFi traffic on the 2nd floor.
(4) new laptops were purchased to provide dedicated computers for use in the main meeting room and local history room. The main meeting room laptops are needed both for livestreaming and presentations, and while the local history room laptop will be used for presentations and hybrid or virtual meetings.
The libraryās (2) public copiers were upgraded to newer models at the beginning of April. Both copiers are currently in service, but are awaiting several improvements. The 1st floor copier is in the process of being moved to a more visible location near the main staircase. The 2nd floor copier will soon be able to accept credit/debit card payments, and will also be utilized for both photocopying and public printing. Patrons can also use the copiers to print directly from a USB flash drive.
Partnerships
The Westfield Art Association and the Westfield Memorial Library announced that local artists Jennifer Wilner and Kiyanna Lawrence have been selected for the inaugural Artist-in-Residence program. Wilnerās residency will run May 1 through July 30, followed by Lawrenceās residency November 1 through January 31. Both artists will publicly display their work at the library, and provide residents with demonstrations and workshops throughout their residencies.
Staff
Two part-time vacancies were announced on April 16, including Social Media Content Creator, and Development Associate. Both positions are anticipated to be approximately 10-20 hours per week, with flexible schedules.
