ALA Executive Board Conference Call Notes - 11/20/03
1. Budget Report
ALA Treasurer Teri R. Switzer reported that the FY03 budget closed with a positive balance of revenues over expenses. She reported on the BARC meeting held the weekend of October 31, 2003 and briefly spoke about the upcoming meeting with ALA's auditors to be held December 12, 2003.
2. Endowment Report
Teri Switzer reported on the meeting of the Endowment Trustees held November 19, 2003. The Trustees heard two presentations responding to an RFP for a REIT [Real Estate Investment Trust] manager. The decision will be announced shortly. KLD, a software firm, made a presentation and answered questions related to their software and screens that enable screening for socially responsible investments. The Finance and Audit Subcommittee of the Board [F&A] will review the issues raised during the presentation and report to the Board at the 2004 Midwinter Meeting. The Trustees reviewed responses to an RFP for an investment advisor and are close to announcing their decision. They also reviewed the Long Term Investment Policy and recommended some revisions for review by F&A. Switzer announced that William C. Morris, the late head of the Children's Book Division at Harper & Row publishers, has left $364,000 as a donation to ALSC and YALSA's endowments.
3. ALA-APA Update
Keith Fiels reported that an offer has been made for the position of ALA-APA Director. We hope to have the new director on staff by the ALA Midwinter Meeting.
4. Periodic Review of Contractual Relationships
The Board discussed the pros and cons of establishing a schedule for the periodic review of ALA's contractual relationships with outside professionals, such as our law firm and auditor. The issue will be discussed by the Board at the 2004 Midwinter Meeting. Prior to the conference, Keith Fiels will distribute a document that identifies existing contractual relationships, recaps practices at other associations of like size and suggests guidelines for ALA. The Board also agreed on the need to provide a fuller report of their decision related to Jenner & Block. Keith Fiels will distribute a draft statement for review by the Board and distribution to the membership prior to Midwinter.
5. Candidate Support
The Board discussed the recent issues that have been raised regarding endorsement of ALA candidates. They agreed that there is no ALA policy regarding endorsement of ALA candidates for office by any ALA officer or unit, and as a result, no prohibition against such endorsements.
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