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♦ Tribute was paid to Pat Scrivener who, after six years of acting as telephone secretary, had decided to stand down. ♦ During the year, Betsy Lee, who had spent many years as our hardworking, cheerful membership secretary, relinquished that role to Maureen Eagle. ♦ 1997 was a year of changes as Jack Mounce retired in May, and we welcomed our new Chief Librarian, Ann Goodhart. ♦ Eileen thanked the many "silent" Members of the Friends for their membership and support. ♦ A special "thank you" was extended to Lillian Chow, who is always cheerful and helpful to the Friends. Eileen concluded her report by thanking all the Friends for their support during the years of her Presidency, adding that these had been immensely enjoyable. Treasurer's Report The 1997 Financial report was presented and distributed by treasurer Ron Lucas and is available from the Library's administration office weekdays between 10am & 4pm should members wish to review the statement. Chief Librarian's Report Ann Goodhart reported that: ♦ 1997 was a year of many changes, including significant changes in funding from the Municipality which resulted in: • Summer Sunday closure beginning a month early on June 1 • Friday evening early closure • Closure for 8 days over Christmas. ♦ A survey of library patrons was carried out, to which over 70% responded that new books were more important than opening hours. ♦ One of the significant changes in the Library's service package has been the introduction of public access Internet stations. Ann concluded her report by paying tribute to the staff and saying that she looked forward to working with the Library Family to make 1998 a productive year. Membership Report Maureen Eagle reported that, at year end, membership totalled 129 - a record. During January, four new members had joined. The new figure of 133 does not take into account any members choosing not to renew their annual membership falling due in January. A warm welcome to our new members: Jean Chambers Marie Evans MimiFoomani Marcella Zunino Maureen distributed copies of the names and 'phone numbers of 1998 active members, listed under their activities of interest. Receptions Elsa O'Connor reported that 1997 was an interesting year in the Art Gallery. Guest attendance was down for the first few months but had picked up. Elsa expressed thanks to her colleagues who had helped at the receptions in 1997. Interested volunteers should contact Elsa. Minutes The Minutes of the AGM are being circulated to those present at the meeting, and are also available from the administration office. The minutes of our regular meetings are not circulated, but are available both from the administration office and at the following meeting.