The board’s decision to retire the equipment use policy, effective January 1, 2025, was a focal point of the meeting. The change aligns with the approval of the 2025 fee schedule, which eliminates rental fees for library equipment. Equipment will now be managed under the library’s “Library of Things” policy, streamlining the borrowing process. This shift reflects a broader goal to modernize the library’s operations and improve accessibility for patrons. The library director has been tasked with ensuring that outdated equipment is appropriately weeded according to the library’s collection development policy.

In addition, the board conducted a first reading of a revised meeting room use policy, set to take effect on the same date. This policy update removes rental fees for the library’s meeting room and places limits on the types and numbers of meetings that can be hosted. These changes aim to better align the use of the meeting room with the library’s mission and make the space more accessible to a diverse range of patrons and groups. The city attorney has reviewed and approved the language of the new policy, which will undergo further scrutiny at the next board meeting before a final vote.

Other topics included the resignations of two library aides, which prompted a discussion on staffing needs. The positions have been posted, with a healthy number of applications already received. Additionally, the board highlighted the success of the recent security camera installation and discussed changes in school outreach strategies, noting a shift away from physical material deliveries to middle school students towards more classroom visits and resource instructions.