Old Bridge Library Trustees Tackle Security and Tutoring Services
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Meeting Type:
Library Board
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Meeting Date:
03/13/2024
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Recording Published:
03/14/2024
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Duration:
103 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Old Bridge
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting of the Old Bridge Library Board of Trustees, the discussions were dominated by the approval of a new Branch Services Manager job description, concerns over the library’s tutoring services, and the consideration of keyless entry systems. The board also debated the need for a security system for the library doors, the impact of a local event on library hours, and the utilization of funds from the friends group for library events.
The trustees voted to approve the job description for the Branch Services Manager position after reviewing the proposed salary and responsibilities, which include managing off-site services and programming. This decision came on the heels of discussions about the library’s tutoring services, with members questioning the effectiveness and usage of current programs, especially online services like tutor.com. The board agreed to promote library services more and to review usage in the future. They also proposed involving teachers and creating a focus group to assess the tutoring programs, noting the challenges parents face with new math standards and learning loss.
Another topic was the potential installation of a keyless entry system, with a quote of $51,000 from PMC Associates Wireless Communications under scrutiny. The board debated the necessity, cost-effectiveness, and security benefits of the system, while also discussing the library’s unique financial relationship with the township.
Concerning the library’s physical security, the board considered installing a security system for certain doors but decided to table the discussion to gather more information, including additional quotes and recommendations from the police department and the security company.
Additionally, to accommodate the Mayor’s Health and Wellness 5K event, the board voted to open the library a half hour later, considering the setup times and parking availability. This decision was paralleled by the approval to close the library for one hour during a health and wellness fair and a run for Hometown Heroes.
The meeting also saw a debate over the allocation of funds from the friends group, with a decision to finance a summer event and invite a representative to the next meeting for a more in-depth discussion. Discussions about the effectiveness of online tutoring platforms and the promotion of these services by librarians were also prominent.
The board was enthusiastic about several updates, including the completed technology tower replacement, which improved internet and Wi-Fi speeds, and the forthcoming project to update the library’s servers. The trustees also discussed acquiring new room scheduling and event registration software, named Plymouth Rocket.
A significant concern raised during the meeting was the leaking roof of the library. The board expressed frustration with the lack of action and public perception, considering legal action, warranty claims, and reaching out to the new town administration for shared maintenance services.
Furthermore, the meeting included a debate over furniture renovations, particularly estimates for phase one circulation desks and the idea Farm. The board planned a walk-through for all trustees to better understand the proposed changes.
In the financial segment, the discussion was brief with no updates on the budget, while the personnel section touched on job descriptions and potential promotions, including the need for additional staff for Outreach and deliveries.
Finally, during public comments, a member of the public raised concerns about transparency regarding access to the director’s report and bill listing. The board engaged in a debate over making these documents publicly available on the day of the meeting and posting meeting information and videos on the library’s website, ultimately agreeing to the latter for enhanced public access.
Debbie Walker
Library Board Officials:
Kevin Borsilli, David Cittadino, Sara Marino, Dr. Joan M. George, Frank Weber, Zainab Syed, Rosemarie Rivoli, Martha Tropeano, Maria Nowak, Rocco Celentano, Eleanor “Debbie” Walker, Christopher Parton (Board Attorney), Dawn Jenkin (Library Director)
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Meeting Type:
Library Board
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Meeting Date:
03/13/2024
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Recording Published:
03/14/2024
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Duration:
103 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Old Bridge
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