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2. Introductions/Awards/Recognitions A. Sheboygan Library Visit Presentation (Commissioner Fern Skowlund) Commissioner Skowlund provided details on her recent visit to family in the City of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a city of approximately 48-50,000 residents with a new 80,000 square -foot library. She shared information and photos of library noting that it is a 3 -level library with 40 public computers, relaxation places, two teen sections, and staff work rooms. Commissioners were provided information about corporate sponsorships for the library. Commissioner Nibert asked about parking for this library and was advised by Commissioner Skowlund that the library has lots of parking and benefits from additional parking in the downtown area. The two Commissioners also discussed the library circulation and the fact that this library has eight full-time librarians. Commissioner Damaser advised he had recently been on a college tour with his college bound teen and was amazed at the number of libraries they had seen that have multiple levels. Commissioner Skowlund advised the commission that the Sheboygan library staff had been shocked to learn that the Pleasanton Library was going to be getting rid of fines. 3. Public Comment from the audience regarding items not listed on the agenda None. MATTERS BEFORE THE COMMISSION 4. Review and Discuss from Awareness to Funding: Voter Perceptions and Support of Public Libraries in 2018 Report At the request of Commissioner Nibert Ms. Murphy showed a 3 -minute section of a video on what to expect in libraries in the 21St century. Ms. Murphy then reviewed with the Commission a report entitled "From Awareness to Funding" that discussed voter perceptions and support of public libraries in 2018. She advised that the studies show that: 1) 55% of voters view libraries as essential to a community, 2) 53% believe libraries are a source of community pride, 3) 58% feel public libraries advance education, 4) 51% feel libraries enhance the quality of life of a community, 5) 49% of voters agree that a public library is an invaluable community resource, 6) 27% see the internet as a suitable equivalent to libraries, 7) only 19% believe bookstores or online sources are easier sources to obtain books, and 8) only 13% question the necessity of libraries in the internet age. Library Commission August 1, 2019 Page 2