8 MCDL News & Notes Welcome to the Board of Trustees Christopher Jakab moved to Medina County more than forty years ago. He is a graduate of Miami University and earned a master’s degree from Cleveland State. He enjoys traveling, disc golf, and outdoor activities that help wear out his two big dogs. He worked for the Medina County Board of Commissioners for more than thirty years as County Finance Director and County Administrator, now serving in a part time role as he eases into retirement. Jakab is committed to volunteer service and assisting residents of Medina County. His former board service includes Project: LEARN and the Recovery Center. Strategic Plan: Overview of Second Year Strategic Goal 1: Engage the Community • As a Dementia Inclusive Library, we are working with community partners to become part of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health’s Dementia Friendly Community Network. A dementia-friendly community is a one that is informed, safe, and respectful of individuals with the disease, their families and caregivers, and provides supportive options that foster quality of life. Staff training and dementia-friendly resources and programs are ongoing. • Library staff and personnel from the Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities reviewed all public and staff spaces and submitted suggestions for accessibility improvements. • Doubled the distribution of Kindergarten and Caregiver Kits from 2023, including distribution through partner agencies. • The Book Bike rolled out at multiple community events around the county. • Business community feedback survey conducted. Strategic Goal 2: Nurture Innovation & Adaptability • A staff suggestion box was implemented and reviewed regularly, complementing the Great Ideas from the Staff program. Strategic Goal 3: Communication Strategies • New Library Live newsletter saw increased open rates in digital format as robust demand for paper copies continues. • Accessibility services and resources, including Mamava Pod (pictured), were promoted on the website and social media regularly. • New website design and online events calendar launched. Strategic Goal 4: Foster an Exceptional Work Environment • Strategic workforce analysis and compensation study was conducted and will be presented to the Board of Trustees in first-quarter 2025. • Alumni feedback regarding Leadership U, the in-house leadership and mentorship program, was gathered in anticipation of a program redesign in 2025. • ADP Learning Management Module was implemented, allowing for customized training options and tracking. Mamava Pod at Medina Library provides a private space for pumping or breastfeeding “I believe reading and literacy are important factors in creating and maintaining a thriving community environment.” – Christopher
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