Rapid City Library Foundation Board Meeting

February 10, 2005

Attendance: Margaret Bader, Margaret Skillman, Mike Wilson, Kathy Conlon, Pat Lawlor, Eric Abrahamson, Maria McCarthy Anderson, Michael Pelly. Foundation Staff: Ruth Sisk. Library Staff: Jennifer Read.

Maria McCarthy Anderson called the meeting to order

Introduction of New Staff

McCarthy Anderson introduced Ruth Sisk. Sisk reviewed her work to date getting the database and bookkeeping together. Discussion re: Ruth’s role. Abrahamson suggested that the main job should be to support the board’s effort to raise money. Pelly said that the key to fundraising is in building networks which is a board member function. It was suggested that a Powerpoint on the Foundation be developed for presentations to community groups by board members. Pelly, Lawlor, and Abrahamson volunteered to make these presentations. In the short term it was agreed that Sisk’s primary job will be to coordinate the annual dinner and work with the board to implement the Planned Giving program.

Treasury Report

Sisk presented the current bank balance. McCarthy Anderson suggested that it would be good to have the Foundation’s books audited. Sisk agreed to call accounting firms to see if someone will do it for free. Pelly asked if we need a CPA-certified audit. Lawlor suggested an internal auditing system. McCarthy Anderson suggested that an outside auditor would be preferable because of our public visibility.

Sisk asked about procedures for check signing. Abrahamson agreed to check the bylaws to see what the spending limits and requirements are.

Annual Dinner

Bader reported that we still have no confirmation from Fuller. A discussion followed on the best approach for securing an author. It was suggested that we contact the Center for the Book. Various options for the annual dinner were discussed. It was the consensus of the Board that we move ahead with a large event as scheduled (April 30). Bader stated that she is working with a group of women who will do the hand-addressing for the invitations. McCarthy Anderson reminded the Board that each board member will be responsible for selling ten tickets. She asked Sisk to bring a hard-copy of the database to the next meeting for board members to split up.

It was generally agreed that invitations should go out four weeks ahead of time. The dinner will be held at the Library. Sisk will call SDSMT to get a quote for catering for this year. Wilson will get the one-day liquor license from the city. Sisk will also call Chamber/Civic Center to find out what else is happening April 30. Skillman suggested that we need to circulate the list of tasks for the dinner at the next meeting. Read will check with Greta Chapman about a 3:00 p.m. closing for the Library.

Web Site

Abrahamson stated that Ernie Grafe has agreed to develop the Foundation’s website for the $250 honorarium. Abrahamson will coordinate with Grafe and bring a draft to the Board.

New Member

McCarthy Anderson proposed the election of a new Board member – Dee Pickarts – and provided a brief resume of Pickarts background and skills. Bader moved that Pickarts be elected to the Board. Pelly seconded the nomination. The Board unanimously approved Pickarts’ election.

Next Meeting

The Board agreed to meet on Thursday, March 3 at the Library from 12-1:00 p.m.