Joan Strickler, observer
All Commissioners present, Johnson presiding.
The Commissioners discussed signing an action form to allow the hiring of a Museum Curator of Design position at the County Museum. It was suggested that the director bring in an outside evaluator to assess and make recommendations for the Museum’s focus in the future. Commissioner McCulloh suggested the director apply for a Peine grant to bring in such an evaluator. The request for the Curator of Design position was approved.
Craig Cox, Assistant County Counselor, requested authorization to move ahead on a real estate tax foreclosure sale. The cost in conducting such a sale is more than offset by the sales receipts and the taxes often recovered.
County Treasurer Eileen King requested permission to close the Treasurer’s office from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, February 29th, to allow staff to attend a funeral. The office will remain open after 5:00 p.m. and as long as necessary to accommodate people needing services. Permission was granted.
The Riley County Appraiser’s Office has completed mailing of the 2012 Change of Value Notices for each of the approximately 24,000 real estate parcels in the county. Sales of property over the last three years have remained comparable. The trend is toward a flat market with average sales prices down to $184,000 from $185,000. The preliminary valuation total countywide is $5,083,154,120, a 6.9% increase from 2011.
A Home Buying Seminar is being offered on March 1st from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Pottorf Hall in Cico Park. The seminar is free and sponsored by Housing & Credit Counseling. Topics covered will be buying and renting, the home buying process, what it takes to qualify for a loan, common mistakes, and handling offers and negotiations. For more information, contact Summer Hamil, (785) 341-7205 / summerhamil@gmail.com
The Riley County Historical Society and Museum (hosts), the Manhattan/Riley County Preservation Alliance, and the Manhattan Historic Resources Board invite participation in a program and discussion about local historic preservation. The event will be held March 1 at the Manhattan City Commission Room, 1101 Poyntz, at 6:45 pm. Participants will have their choice of three break-out sessions: How to research your property; County properties currently on the Historic Register; Archaeological Sites in the area; Manhattan’s most endangered list; African-American cultural resources; or using tax credits for restoration.
Rod Meredith, assistant public works director, presented a report on the effectiveness of wind turbines currently being used at the County public works shop. In just six months in 2011, the turbines produced more than 125,000 kilowatt hours of energy. According to Meredith, the turbines have exceeded expectations in the amount of energy produced. Interest in the turbines has been very positive and his office receives contacts weekly asking about their performance. To date 200 tours have been given. Kansas State University researches data produced from each renewable energy resource at the facility.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Friday, February 24, 2012
County Commission 2/23/12
County Commission, Feb. 23, 2012
All Commissioners present.
Among the usual items in the business meeting, the Commission approved a request by the Flint Hills Tea Party for a reservation of the court house plaza for a speakers’ rally on Saturday, April 14, from 12 -7 p.m.
Johnette Shepek gave an update on the expenditures and balances in the CIP, County Building, Economic Development and ½ cent Sales Tax accounts.
Robert Nall, Information Technology Director, presented his monthly departmental update. He said the new server to be deployed at the Health Department has been prepared along with a room to use for network operations for the Health Department. They are also upgrading work stations, wiring infrastructure and video security at the Health Department location. In the GIS area, they are working on several projects affecting Elections, Planning, and Appraisers departments.
A resolution approving beer sales at the Riley County Fair Rodeo was approved. According to Extension and the Fair Board, last year’s “test run” of such sales was a success, and the Fair Board would like permission for such sales to continue.
Julie Merklin, observer
All Commissioners present.
Among the usual items in the business meeting, the Commission approved a request by the Flint Hills Tea Party for a reservation of the court house plaza for a speakers’ rally on Saturday, April 14, from 12 -7 p.m.
Johnette Shepek gave an update on the expenditures and balances in the CIP, County Building, Economic Development and ½ cent Sales Tax accounts.
Robert Nall, Information Technology Director, presented his monthly departmental update. He said the new server to be deployed at the Health Department has been prepared along with a room to use for network operations for the Health Department. They are also upgrading work stations, wiring infrastructure and video security at the Health Department location. In the GIS area, they are working on several projects affecting Elections, Planning, and Appraisers departments.
A resolution approving beer sales at the Riley County Fair Rodeo was approved. According to Extension and the Fair Board, last year’s “test run” of such sales was a success, and the Fair Board would like permission for such sales to continue.
Julie Merklin, observer
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
USD 383 Board of Education
Feb. 15, 2012
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer
Mark Bachamp and Jason Hilgers, representatives of the MHS Booster Club, discussed with the board the possibility of the Booster Club's doing fundraising for artificial turf for Bishop Stadium. The Booster Club estimated turf installation would cost in the range of $750,000 - $1 million, with a field lasting about 10-12 years before needing to be replaced. Replacement costs are less than installation because some of the infrastructure, like for drainage, wouldn't need to be replaced. The Booster Club wanted direction from the board as to whether it could proceed with fundraising and whether naming rights would be a possibility for a significant donor. The board decided to work with administration regarding naming rights and to refine cost estimates.
Dave Colburn and Dr. Bob Shannon, Superintendent, reported on state education funding and the second count date for military-connected students. The governor's proposed K-12 funding plan would increase the base per pupil funding but would eliminate weightings for low income students, English language learners, etc. This would mean that districts with high numbers of low income students would receive the same state funding as districts with few low income students. Regarding the second military count date (which is Feb. 20th), the Kansas Legislature is considering an amendment to a bill that would count the net increase in students and not the gross increase, which is the current method. Colburn thought the proposed change could be seen as anti-military by the Pentagon, and Shannon said the district would lose money if the change were to go into effect. The school district plans to advocate to keep the second count as a count of the gross increase.
The board previously approved a redistricting plan, and in light of the changes to school boundaries, the board discussed the district's transfer policy. Only a handful of 7th graders will be switching middle schools for 8th grade as a result of redistricting, and administration recommended that those 7th graders be allowed to stay at their same middle schools for 8th grade. A larger number of 5th graders would be affected by the redistricting plan (44 students), and administration recommended that those students not be allowed to stay at their current elementary schools for 6th grade due to potential problems with class sizes. Board members Darell Edie, Leah Fliter, Walt Pesaresi, Dave Colburn, and Curt Herrman were in support of the transfer plan developed by administration. Pete Paukstelis and Doug Messer didn't think it was appropriate to deny transfers to the 44 redistricted 5th graders while permitting transfers for other students, including accepting out-of-district students. Paukstelis and Messer thought the 44 redistricted 5th graders should have the option to take their chances and apply for a transfer the same as any other USD 383 student could. The board approved the transfer plan 5-2, with Paukstelis and Messer dissenting.
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer
Mark Bachamp and Jason Hilgers, representatives of the MHS Booster Club, discussed with the board the possibility of the Booster Club's doing fundraising for artificial turf for Bishop Stadium. The Booster Club estimated turf installation would cost in the range of $750,000 - $1 million, with a field lasting about 10-12 years before needing to be replaced. Replacement costs are less than installation because some of the infrastructure, like for drainage, wouldn't need to be replaced. The Booster Club wanted direction from the board as to whether it could proceed with fundraising and whether naming rights would be a possibility for a significant donor. The board decided to work with administration regarding naming rights and to refine cost estimates.
Dave Colburn and Dr. Bob Shannon, Superintendent, reported on state education funding and the second count date for military-connected students. The governor's proposed K-12 funding plan would increase the base per pupil funding but would eliminate weightings for low income students, English language learners, etc. This would mean that districts with high numbers of low income students would receive the same state funding as districts with few low income students. Regarding the second military count date (which is Feb. 20th), the Kansas Legislature is considering an amendment to a bill that would count the net increase in students and not the gross increase, which is the current method. Colburn thought the proposed change could be seen as anti-military by the Pentagon, and Shannon said the district would lose money if the change were to go into effect. The school district plans to advocate to keep the second count as a count of the gross increase.
The board previously approved a redistricting plan, and in light of the changes to school boundaries, the board discussed the district's transfer policy. Only a handful of 7th graders will be switching middle schools for 8th grade as a result of redistricting, and administration recommended that those 7th graders be allowed to stay at their same middle schools for 8th grade. A larger number of 5th graders would be affected by the redistricting plan (44 students), and administration recommended that those students not be allowed to stay at their current elementary schools for 6th grade due to potential problems with class sizes. Board members Darell Edie, Leah Fliter, Walt Pesaresi, Dave Colburn, and Curt Herrman were in support of the transfer plan developed by administration. Pete Paukstelis and Doug Messer didn't think it was appropriate to deny transfers to the 44 redistricted 5th graders while permitting transfers for other students, including accepting out-of-district students. Paukstelis and Messer thought the 44 redistricted 5th graders should have the option to take their chances and apply for a transfer the same as any other USD 383 student could. The board approved the transfer plan 5-2, with Paukstelis and Messer dissenting.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Riley County Commission mtg 2-16-12
All Commissioners present.
After routine business, Clancy Holeman, Counselor, requested an executive session.
Jennifer Wilson, County Extension Director, requested the appointment of a member to the Fair Board, which was approved 3-0. She requested a resolution authorizing beer sales at the Kaw Valley Rodeo during the County Fair in CiCo Park. Last year's experiment worked out quite well. The Rodeo people have excellent security, and there were no "behavioral incidents." The Fair Board had requested a three-year permit, but in discussion and with the opinion of Counselor Holeman, they came to consensus that no time period should be mentioned in the resolution, but that they reserve the right to withdraw the permit at any time deemed desirable. At this point, no other entities besides the Rodeo would have beer sales permission. Holeman will bring a draft resolution for Commissioners' consideration.
Brad Schoen, RCPD Director, reminded Commissioners that RCPD's Awards Banquet is this Sunday. All Commissioners said they would be present. Schoen said the Citizens Academy has its first (10) session tonight for two hours. It is not too late to enroll. Smaller communities in Riley County are drawing up proposals for their law enforcement. Crime rates on "serious crimes," e.g. murder, rape, kidnapping, were down in 2011 by 5%. This follows the national trend. In the "Impact Zone" where they have used more concentrated enforcement, the rate is down 8%. Traffic enforcement is meant to reduce the number of accidents. They intend to focus more on the Bluemont Ave. corridor and tailor coverage on times of day, location and days of the week, paying particular attention to rush times. The construction on K-18 in the airport-Scenic Drive-Wildcat Creek area begins sometime in March. Schoen asked drivers to avoid the area if at all possible. People who live in the area will find alternate routes on Wildcat Creek, Eureka Drive, etc. Also, speeds will probably be about 30 miles per hour. Schoen also reported that the RCPD is working with the Aggieville Business Association and others to finalize plans for Fake Patty's Day (now renamed "Green Break").
Rod Meredith, Asst. Public Works/Parks Director, conducted a bid opening for traffic signs, reflective sheeting, aluminum sign blanks and accessories. There were seven bids, three of which did not bid on all items. Commissioners voted 3-0 to refer the bids to staff for study and recommendation.
Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer, presented a summary of 1/2-cent sales tax projects. Many of the projects are complete and under budget. All projects are expected to be finished this year. Projects included culverts, bridges, road reconstructions and asphalt overlays. Completed projects cost $6,899,153. Uncompleted projects have cost of $3,297,736. Cash balance for 2012 is $1,590,420. Estimated costs of unfinished projects are $1,092,474. Commissioners discussed ways of proceeding in the matter of a ballot question for November to continue the tax. They felt they needed to work hard to reach consensus with the city. Since the original question, passed by public vote, mentions that it must be resubmitted, Commissioners felt they should have an outside, unbiased, opinion on how the question should be submitted, which could help city and county to come together on wording, etc. They voted 3-0 to ask for an opinion from the Kansas Attorney General.
Pat Collins, Emergency Management Director, requested permission to renew maintenance contracts with two entities and permission to accept 10 portable radios from NE Regional Council. Funds for the two maintenance contracts are already included in the budget. Commissioners voted approval 3-0 on each of the three requests.
Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
After routine business, Clancy Holeman, Counselor, requested an executive session.
Jennifer Wilson, County Extension Director, requested the appointment of a member to the Fair Board, which was approved 3-0. She requested a resolution authorizing beer sales at the Kaw Valley Rodeo during the County Fair in CiCo Park. Last year's experiment worked out quite well. The Rodeo people have excellent security, and there were no "behavioral incidents." The Fair Board had requested a three-year permit, but in discussion and with the opinion of Counselor Holeman, they came to consensus that no time period should be mentioned in the resolution, but that they reserve the right to withdraw the permit at any time deemed desirable. At this point, no other entities besides the Rodeo would have beer sales permission. Holeman will bring a draft resolution for Commissioners' consideration.
Brad Schoen, RCPD Director, reminded Commissioners that RCPD's Awards Banquet is this Sunday. All Commissioners said they would be present. Schoen said the Citizens Academy has its first (10) session tonight for two hours. It is not too late to enroll. Smaller communities in Riley County are drawing up proposals for their law enforcement. Crime rates on "serious crimes," e.g. murder, rape, kidnapping, were down in 2011 by 5%. This follows the national trend. In the "Impact Zone" where they have used more concentrated enforcement, the rate is down 8%. Traffic enforcement is meant to reduce the number of accidents. They intend to focus more on the Bluemont Ave. corridor and tailor coverage on times of day, location and days of the week, paying particular attention to rush times. The construction on K-18 in the airport-Scenic Drive-Wildcat Creek area begins sometime in March. Schoen asked drivers to avoid the area if at all possible. People who live in the area will find alternate routes on Wildcat Creek, Eureka Drive, etc. Also, speeds will probably be about 30 miles per hour. Schoen also reported that the RCPD is working with the Aggieville Business Association and others to finalize plans for Fake Patty's Day (now renamed "Green Break").
Rod Meredith, Asst. Public Works/Parks Director, conducted a bid opening for traffic signs, reflective sheeting, aluminum sign blanks and accessories. There were seven bids, three of which did not bid on all items. Commissioners voted 3-0 to refer the bids to staff for study and recommendation.
Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer, presented a summary of 1/2-cent sales tax projects. Many of the projects are complete and under budget. All projects are expected to be finished this year. Projects included culverts, bridges, road reconstructions and asphalt overlays. Completed projects cost $6,899,153. Uncompleted projects have cost of $3,297,736. Cash balance for 2012 is $1,590,420. Estimated costs of unfinished projects are $1,092,474. Commissioners discussed ways of proceeding in the matter of a ballot question for November to continue the tax. They felt they needed to work hard to reach consensus with the city. Since the original question, passed by public vote, mentions that it must be resubmitted, Commissioners felt they should have an outside, unbiased, opinion on how the question should be submitted, which could help city and county to come together on wording, etc. They voted 3-0 to ask for an opinion from the Kansas Attorney General.
Pat Collins, Emergency Management Director, requested permission to renew maintenance contracts with two entities and permission to accept 10 portable radios from NE Regional Council. Funds for the two maintenance contracts are already included in the budget. Commissioners voted approval 3-0 on each of the three requests.
Submitted by Lyndal Nyberg.
Monday, February 13, 2012
USD 383 Board of Education
Feb. 1, 2012
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer
The board was presented with construction documents for MHS East Campus. When the design was in the development phase, components of the project were re-prioritized in order to focus on completing areas of the building. For example, interior water damage will be repaired in conjunction with addressing how water was entering the building. The bulk of the work to be done at East Campus will be in the gym, including improving the locker rooms, restrooms, and the exterior panels and insulation. The board approved 7-0 the construction documents.
Dr. Bob Seymour, Associate Superintendent, reported that the district's mid-year enrollment showed an increase of 65 students compared to September's enrollment numbers.
The board discussed in second reading the proposed redistricting plan. Board members were in agreement in regards to the proposed plan and discussed whether to "grandfather" current 5th and 7th grade students and allow them to stay at their current schools for next year. Only a small number of 7th graders will be switching middle schools, so the board was open to allowing those students to remain at their same middle schools for 8th grade. Higher numbers of 5th graders would be affected, and board members' opinions varied between placing a higher priority on 5th grade transfer requests and discouraging transfer requests altogether. The board approved the redistricting plan 7-0 and planned to discuss transfers further at the Feb. 15th meeting.
Kathy Dzewaltowski, observer
The board was presented with construction documents for MHS East Campus. When the design was in the development phase, components of the project were re-prioritized in order to focus on completing areas of the building. For example, interior water damage will be repaired in conjunction with addressing how water was entering the building. The bulk of the work to be done at East Campus will be in the gym, including improving the locker rooms, restrooms, and the exterior panels and insulation. The board approved 7-0 the construction documents.
Dr. Bob Seymour, Associate Superintendent, reported that the district's mid-year enrollment showed an increase of 65 students compared to September's enrollment numbers.
The board discussed in second reading the proposed redistricting plan. Board members were in agreement in regards to the proposed plan and discussed whether to "grandfather" current 5th and 7th grade students and allow them to stay at their current schools for next year. Only a small number of 7th graders will be switching middle schools, so the board was open to allowing those students to remain at their same middle schools for 8th grade. Higher numbers of 5th graders would be affected, and board members' opinions varied between placing a higher priority on 5th grade transfer requests and discouraging transfer requests altogether. The board approved the redistricting plan 7-0 and planned to discuss transfers further at the Feb. 15th meeting.
Riley County Commission mtg 2-13-12
All Commissioners present.
Rich Vargo gave the Year-to-Date budget and financial reports. There are still a few bills yet to be paid for 2011, none of which will cause budget violations. There are no "red flags" from January 2012.
Eileen King, Treasurer, gave monthly financial reports. In only one month, there are no discernible trends. The rate on CDs is 1.3%. Ms. King said people from other counties say they are not doing any better. Tax receipts are mostly up. Overall, receipts are 2.7% over budget. Someone mentioned that the "Big Red One" from Ft. Riley will be deployed to Afghanistan in March. That will have an effect on sales taxes and car registrations. When asked how many drivers' licenses her office is now processing, King said quite a few. This is a new responsibility for her office. They do only standard renewals. Many people appreciate not having to wait so long as they would at the DMV.
Scott Hagemeister, RCPD, discussed the Citizen Academy that will begin this Thursday, Feb. 16. It will consist of 10 weekly sessions, with a break for Spring Break. They will cover such topics as administration, training procedures, specialist units (such as dogs and bicycles), etc. Participants may choose to fire a gun or voluntarily be tased.
Monty Wedel, Planning, said the Riley County Planning Board will discuss recent public input on Vision 2025 on Thursday, Feb. 16th, in the RCC meeting room. This is to firm up the proposed amendments to planning regulations.
Cheryl Collins, Museum Director, said she will be the speaker at the Riley County Genealogical Society's meeting on Sunday, Feb. 19th, at 2:00 p.m., at the Public Library. She will talk about life in Manhattan and Riley County in 1912, and compare issues, interests, and activities of today with those of 100 years ago. She also announced that the Rocky Ford School at Tuttle Creek Blvd and Barnes Road, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The RCHS is now raising funds for renovation.
Gregg Eyestone, Extension, announced the Manhattan Area Garden Show at Pottorf Hall, CiCo Park, on Saturday, Feb. 25th, and Sunday, Feb. 26th. There will be seminars hourly in the Clover Room from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Master Gardeners will be present to give advice. There will be 22 booths, a food stand with light lunch, and door prizes.
Rich Vargo announced the Riley County Offices will be closed for Presidents' Day, Monday, Feb. 20.
Leon Hobson said KDOT will meet with local officials Wednesday, Feb. 15th, to discuss traffic challenges during the next phase of construction on K-18. There will be traffic diversions at different times for east-bound and for west-bound traffic. Entrance to and exit from Ft. Riley will be affected, as will some access to the airport. Scenic Drive, Eureka Drive, and Wildcat Creek Road will be utilized at various times. If you can, you should take I-70. If you need access to Ft. Riley or the airport or other businesses in the area, leave early, drive slowly, and be patient. Hobson said KDOT had told him that it will be "great" when it is finished.
After an executive session (personnel matter), Clancy Holeman, Counselor/Director of Admin. Services, conducted an administrative work session. Commissioners agreed by consensus that they do not support a bill putting term limits on county commissioners. They said limits are better left to the voters. Another bill, which would require County Commissions to change the mill levy in accordance to changes in assessed valuation, might thus produce what could become a "Tabor-like" tax bill, which does not take into account the reality of how things actually are done. New construction was exempted, but no provision was made for staffing, heating or lighting. Commissioners agreed by consensus that such tax matters should be left to individual county bodies. After brief mention of other matters, Commissioners went again into executive session.
Cheryl Collins, Museum Director, said that their Archive Library is available to all members of the public, even from out of State. They strive to serve everyone's needs for research. It is a non-circulating research library, available only by appointment, because an archivist must be present to find the materials (no card catalog). Some of the materials are very rare and others are fragile, so they may need trained people to handle them. This may be frustrating to people in a hurry or with deadlines, so they make every possible effort to be accommodating. They try to reach a sensible balance between accessibility and preservation. Ms. Collins mentioned that sometimes users of the library contribute additional valuable information to the archive.
Submitted by Lybdal Nyberg
Rich Vargo gave the Year-to-Date budget and financial reports. There are still a few bills yet to be paid for 2011, none of which will cause budget violations. There are no "red flags" from January 2012.
Eileen King, Treasurer, gave monthly financial reports. In only one month, there are no discernible trends. The rate on CDs is 1.3%. Ms. King said people from other counties say they are not doing any better. Tax receipts are mostly up. Overall, receipts are 2.7% over budget. Someone mentioned that the "Big Red One" from Ft. Riley will be deployed to Afghanistan in March. That will have an effect on sales taxes and car registrations. When asked how many drivers' licenses her office is now processing, King said quite a few. This is a new responsibility for her office. They do only standard renewals. Many people appreciate not having to wait so long as they would at the DMV.
Scott Hagemeister, RCPD, discussed the Citizen Academy that will begin this Thursday, Feb. 16. It will consist of 10 weekly sessions, with a break for Spring Break. They will cover such topics as administration, training procedures, specialist units (such as dogs and bicycles), etc. Participants may choose to fire a gun or voluntarily be tased.
Monty Wedel, Planning, said the Riley County Planning Board will discuss recent public input on Vision 2025 on Thursday, Feb. 16th, in the RCC meeting room. This is to firm up the proposed amendments to planning regulations.
Cheryl Collins, Museum Director, said she will be the speaker at the Riley County Genealogical Society's meeting on Sunday, Feb. 19th, at 2:00 p.m., at the Public Library. She will talk about life in Manhattan and Riley County in 1912, and compare issues, interests, and activities of today with those of 100 years ago. She also announced that the Rocky Ford School at Tuttle Creek Blvd and Barnes Road, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The RCHS is now raising funds for renovation.
Gregg Eyestone, Extension, announced the Manhattan Area Garden Show at Pottorf Hall, CiCo Park, on Saturday, Feb. 25th, and Sunday, Feb. 26th. There will be seminars hourly in the Clover Room from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Master Gardeners will be present to give advice. There will be 22 booths, a food stand with light lunch, and door prizes.
Rich Vargo announced the Riley County Offices will be closed for Presidents' Day, Monday, Feb. 20.
Leon Hobson said KDOT will meet with local officials Wednesday, Feb. 15th, to discuss traffic challenges during the next phase of construction on K-18. There will be traffic diversions at different times for east-bound and for west-bound traffic. Entrance to and exit from Ft. Riley will be affected, as will some access to the airport. Scenic Drive, Eureka Drive, and Wildcat Creek Road will be utilized at various times. If you can, you should take I-70. If you need access to Ft. Riley or the airport or other businesses in the area, leave early, drive slowly, and be patient. Hobson said KDOT had told him that it will be "great" when it is finished.
After an executive session (personnel matter), Clancy Holeman, Counselor/Director of Admin. Services, conducted an administrative work session. Commissioners agreed by consensus that they do not support a bill putting term limits on county commissioners. They said limits are better left to the voters. Another bill, which would require County Commissions to change the mill levy in accordance to changes in assessed valuation, might thus produce what could become a "Tabor-like" tax bill, which does not take into account the reality of how things actually are done. New construction was exempted, but no provision was made for staffing, heating or lighting. Commissioners agreed by consensus that such tax matters should be left to individual county bodies. After brief mention of other matters, Commissioners went again into executive session.
Cheryl Collins, Museum Director, said that their Archive Library is available to all members of the public, even from out of State. They strive to serve everyone's needs for research. It is a non-circulating research library, available only by appointment, because an archivist must be present to find the materials (no card catalog). Some of the materials are very rare and others are fragile, so they may need trained people to handle them. This may be frustrating to people in a hurry or with deadlines, so they make every possible effort to be accommodating. They try to reach a sensible balance between accessibility and preservation. Ms. Collins mentioned that sometimes users of the library contribute additional valuable information to the archive.
Submitted by Lybdal Nyberg
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