Meeting Briefs: Library Board of Trustees for June 24, 2025

The Library Board of Trustees unanimously approved its annual working budget after amending the family programs line to $25,000. The board is also moving forward with long-term financial planning, having received three proposals from firms to act as its financial advisor. Trustees will review the proposals ahead of a discussion in July and a meeting with bond counsel in August.

Facing persistent equipment issues, the library is actively exploring new vendors for both its IT support and its public print and copier management system. Citing a “repeatedly malfunctioning” credit card reader on the current copiers, officials are evaluating providers, including ISBS, which already holds the library’s copier contract, to supply more reliable technology services for patrons.

First Personnel Report Presented
Following a decision made last month, the board reviewed its first-ever personnel report, which details employee hire and separation dates. Trustee Erin Minh praised the report’s easy-to-read format, while another trustee requested that staff names be included in future versions. Executive Director Cathy Palmer explained that staffing levels have been gradually increasing since a wave of retirements following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Friends of the Library Book Sale Nets Over $2,600
The Friends of the Library’s book sale on May 30-31 was a financial success, generating a net profit of $2,661.60. The event’s income included $1,261.75 from book sales, a basket raffle, new memberships, and over $960 in donations. Secretary Marilyn O’Rourke relayed praise from the Friends group for the “outstanding” library staff who assisted with the sale.

Summer Reading Kickoff Includes New Sensory-Friendly Hour
The library’s Summer Reading Program launched with a well-attended kickoff party on June 14 that featured a new sensory-friendly hour from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. The accommodation was “well received and appreciated by many families,” according to library staff. Trustees Trustee Sara Carmody and Vice President Kathy Lewandowski both praised the creativity and success of the event.

Job Description Updated
The board approved an updated job description for the Assistant Head of Library Services II position. The update reflects a change in title and duties for what was previously the Assistant Head of Customer Service role.

2025-2026 Meeting Dates Approved
Trustees approved the schedule of regular board meetings for the new fiscal year. The only modification from the typical schedule is the December 2025 meeting, which was moved to avoid a holiday conflict. The next board meeting is scheduled for July 22, 2025.