Staff Report
The Churchill County Library Board of Trustees approved Library Director John Hong’s annual performance evaluation and a one-step merit increase Oct. 22 after he received a rating of “good” in all 10 evaluation categories.
The evaluation covered job knowledge, leadership, budget management, personnel development, teamwork, customer service, responsiveness to board direction, innovation, productivity, and overall performance. Trustees unanimously approved the evaluation and merit increase in a single motion.
Under county personnel procedures, the increase will take effect on Hong’s one-year employment anniversary.
Hong thanked the trustees for their confidence and credited library employees, volunteers, community organizations, and local officials for supporting the library.
Library Board Vice Chair Mattie Serna presided over the meeting.
Trustees also discussed a proposed mural for the north exterior wall of the Churchill County Library. Hong said he met Sept. 30 with representatives involved in local America 250 activities about the project.
Preliminary ideas include an open-book design incorporating science, art, and local wildlife. Hong said he expected to receive design concepts by the end of October and wanted library staff and trustees to review them.
The project could use funding from a Nevada Arts Council grant, although Hong said he did not have complete details about the funding.
Because the library is a county-owned building, the county would have final authority over installation. No board action was taken.
During public comment, a resident asked whether the mural could interfere with a future library expansion. Hong said removable panels were being considered so the artwork could be relocated if necessary.
In his director’s report, Hong announced that Devin Pitt began work as a library page Oct. 5. The library is also recruiting a digital information services librarian, with applications closing Nov. 15.
Hong said library employees continue working with Nick Delgado of Juvenile Probation to maintain a safe environment for students gathering at the library after school. Staff members take turns monitoring the library, while Hong and Delgado help supervise the entrance area.
The library has also introduced Crafternoon, an after-school program featuring art and craft activities. Hong said the program encourages students to spend time away from computers while making use of leftover craft supplies.
September programming included 13 storytime sessions with a combined attendance of 320 and four chess club sessions with a combined attendance of 82.
Hong said staffing remains a challenge as the library works to expand programs and community outreach.
During trustee training, board members discussed strengthening partnerships with schools, businesses, civic organizations, and other community groups. Hong said library staff could provide trustees with information about programs and upcoming needs to help with outreach efforts.
The board also approved the September budget and Library Gift Fund reports.
Consideration of proposed revisions to the board’s bylaws was postponed until November because the revisions had not been included in the publicly posted meeting materials.
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