Calaveras County Library System Report 2006-2007 Responses

All computers in the branches and main headquarters have Internet DSL connectivity through the libraries’ computer system. Proposed wireless service is anticipated to allow the public to connect their personal computers to the Internet. A request for wireless connectivity is to go to the Board of Supervisors for approval for San Andreas, Murphys, and Mokelumne Hill libraries.

Libraries reported a need for increased hours of operation, which requires increased staffing. In lieu of finding millions of dollars for new libraries, Friends of Library and Library Commissioners are seeking grants of $200,000 to $300,000 to move seven employees from part-time to full-time to provide more hours of operation at San Andreas Library. An additional professional librarian position, additional clerical assistants, and trained volunteers are needed at Central Library. Additional funding for increased staffing is also requested at branch libraries to increase hours of operation. Data from the 2006 California Library Statistics publication showed that in 2005- 2006 Tuolumne County with a population of 58,504 allocated $679,813 for library 89 staff salaries and benefits whereas Calaveras County with a population of 44,796 allocated only $407,190. In previous years, no increase has been provided for additional staffing. Status quo funding for library books and materials has been in effect for several years, the librarian reports.

The Grand Jury became aware of bus route and bus stop safety problems within the county. The Grand Jury selected the Pettinger Road bus route for detailed observation and found excessive patching causing a rough uneven road with unsafe shoulders. Heavy traffic between Jenny Lind and Highway 12 during morning bus travel intensifies the danger. Transportation Director of the Calaveras Unified School District and bus drivers report the road to be unsafe. The Calaveras County Public Works Deputy Director of Operations and Maintenance reported that road safety is their main concern and that no complaint had been received from the Calaveras Unified School District. Therefore only routine attention was being paid to this road. The Deputy Director reports, equipment to monitor peak usage of this road will be set up and attention will be given as to whether the condition of the road and usage deserve priority for possible resurfacing or repair.