2. Knowledge Bank at OSU--Joe Branin again discussed the development of a Knowledge Bank at OSU, using a PowerPoint presentation that covered the conceptual framework, identification of the potential components of such a repository, and examples of databases and files that currently exist on campus. Pursuit of this concept raises questions concerning the movement of the library beyond the published scholarly universe to involvement with unpublished materials. The Libraries' sees a partnership with the Office of Information Technology (OIT) to provide coordination and development of support services and standards for indexing and metadata.

Provision of uniform access to existing data will make possible the streamlining of record keeping, the ability to share data and research, as well as reducing duplication and saving money. However, issues of ownership, confidentiality, and security also come into play. The Libraries and OIT are planning to fund the Knowledge Bank, at least in a pilot phase with existing funds, grant funds, and possible support from Academic Affairs or the Office of Research. It is anticipated that the new Council on Libraries and Information Technology could serve as a catalyst and provide oversight for the Knowledge Bank project.

3. Self Study/Budget Status--Joe Branin gave a PowerPoint presentation describing the Libraries' Self Study, which identifies strategic indicators that will be used to measure effectiveness of the Libraries' programs and services. In addition to the strategic indicators identified in the Self Study, the Libraries will also be taking part along with OhioLINK this spring in a survey of user satisfaction called LibQual+, sponsored by the Association of Research Libraries.

Potential budget reductions were also discussed, although the anticipated reductions may not be as severe as had been feared.

4. Renovation of Main Library--Wes Boomgaarden provided an update on the status of the Main Library Renovation Project. Fifty copies of the draft of the Final Report were received and distributed for comment, with comments due by February 19. These comments were submitted to the architects for incorporation into the Final Report, which will be submitted both in print (20 copies) and electronically. Of the four alternatives provided in the report, the middle two, which would alter the stack tower and provide additions to the building, are most attractive to both the architects and the Libraries, but the final decision rests with the President and and Board of Trustees.

It is hoped that a memorandum of understanding will be drafted this spring/summer, followed by the issuance of a new RFP to hire architects to develop the program of requirements and final design for the renovation. They will be expected to identify phasing for the project, where staff and/or collections will be relocated, and how to sustain services during the process.

5. Fines and Lost Book Charges--Pat McCandless presented proposed changes to 1) overdue fines for recalled materials and those on Closed Reserve and 2) charges for lost books and bound journal volumes. The current charges have been in effect since 1994, and the proposed revisions reflect inflationary increases for replacing materials, as well as incentives to return materials needed by others. The proposed changes are as follows:

LOST CHARGES (Increased to reflect the rising cost of new and out-of-print library materials)

Lost books--$90 replacement; $40 processing fee; $10 billing charge. If book is returned, patron owes $10. (Currently $75, $25, and $10) A replacement of the same title and edition may be provided in lieu of the replacement cost, but the $40 processing fee and $10 billing charge apply.

Lost bound journals--$120 replacement; $40 processing fee; $10 billing charge. If bound volume is returned, patron owes $10. (Currently $94, $25, and $10)

FINES (Increased to stimulate prompt return for use by others.)

Recalled items--$10/day with $100 maximum (currently $1/day after new due date)

Overdue reserve items--2 hour loan $2/first hour; $5/hour thereafter to a maximum of $100 (Currently $2/first hour; $1/hour thereafter to a maximum of $25)

1 day/1 week loan $5 first day; $10 thereafter to a maximum of $100 (Currently $1/day to a maximum of $25)

6. Whither Library Council--The information supplied by Helen DeSantis concerning the composition and activities of committees relating to Barnes & Noble bookstores on other campuses was discussed briefly. The concensus at the February 13 meeting did not favor the inclusion of the bookstore under the purview of a new Senate committee covering Libraries and Information Technology; there was nothing in the new information to change that opinion. A letter from Phil Smith as Chair of Library council will be sent to Jane Case-Smith, Chair of the Senate Steering Committee, indicating that the current Library Council supports in principle the oversight of, and advice on, university bookstores by a group composed of faculty/students, and recognizes the value of such for the university community, but rejects the notion of that function's inclusion in the responsibilities of a committee dealing with libraries and information technology. [See letter to Jane Case-Smith dated April 2, 2002.]

7. The meeting was adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

Elizabeth Sawyers for
Joseph Branin