HomeMy Public PortalAboutmay19directoreval2019 WFPL Director's Review
Compiled by Daniel Evans Pritchard, Secretary of the Board
Planning — Long and Short Term
Avg Score: 4
Unanimity on the director's strength in this area. Particular note was taken that the WFPL remains up to
date on emerging needs and innovations as well as to the diligence with which the director has pursued
the goals of the five-year plan.
Fiscal Management
Avg Score: 3.67
The director received praise for the clarity of budget reporting, the consistent success the WFPL has had
in appealing for Town funding, and for her comprehensive and detailed knowledge of the budget at
meetings. One area of concern noted by several trustees is the reluctance of the director to seek funding to
augment the municipal budget, in consideration of the use of the WFPL's resources by many non-
residents.
Facilities Management
Avg Score: 3.83
Given the volume of visitors to the Library especially, the Director was praised for the attention paid to
matters large and small. She has also raised concerns in regards to the working environment of the staff.
The Library has been noted for its patron accessibility, notes another trustee, and the efforts to expand
accessibility continue.
Programs and Collection Development
Avg Score: 4
The Director's vision and courage in this area was unanimously commended, with special notice of
Hatch, the Democracy series, the drop -in clinics, Cook the Books, 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, Girls
Who Code, and One Book, One Watertown. Several trustees also admired the accessibility and diverse
use made of the WFPL archives. The 150th Anniversary Gala should be a point of pride for the Director
as well.
Personnel Management and Development
Avg Score (Four Votes Total): 3.25
Two trustees abstained from voting on this item for lack of adequate opportunity to substantively evaluate
the Director's work in this area. Several trustees observed that, despite the lack of direct insight, there do
not appear to be any signs of management challenges (such as high turnover). In reflecting on the
professional development opportunities afforded WFPL staff, one board member suggested that the
Trustees extend the Director similar professional development opportunities, should they be of interest
and potential benefit.
Board Relations
Avg Score: 3.33
The Director is always prepared to meet with the board, responds to communications regarding Library
matters, and balances the differing input of board members well. Several trustees noted that the talents
and experience of the board are little utilized beyond reviewing budgets and proposals, to the detriment of
the WFPL. Several also noted that the Director does not always appear open to feedback and can seem
combative during board discussions.
Community Relations
Avg Score: 3.33
The Director was commended for building key relationships with local institutions, keeping digital
offerings updated, maintaining a strong relationship with Watertown elected officials, and for hiring a
new community engagement specialist. Several trustees noted that the Director herself does not have a
strong personal presence in the community, though one questioned whether that affected the public's
estimation and use of the WFPL.
Management Style
Avg Score (Three Votes Total): 3.33
Three trustees abstained from voting on this item, again for lack of substantive opportunities to evaluate.
Board members noted the Gala as an example of staff going above and beyond, evidence of the Director's
ability to motivate them. The overall success of the WFPL is seen as a sign of her even -keeled style. The
department heads appear to feel empowered to pursue initiatives. Some concern was raised in regards to
whether this indicated a trusted staff or a disconnect between the staff and the Director, and another
trustee observed that the Director's manner can be unintentionally intimidating at times, and wonders
whether that dampens staff initiative.
Action Plan and Goals
Avg Score: 4
The action plan, several trustees observe, are pursued vigorously and reported clearly. It has served as an
excellent road map for continued expansion and innovation, one trustee writes.