The meeting’s most topic was the update on the library’s construction progress. A construction representative provided a detailed overview, highlighting that the roof deck was nearing completion and work on the air and water barrier (AVB) had commenced. However, the timeline for project completion was now projected to be six weeks behind schedule. Concerns were voiced by board members about the feasibility of this timeline, given the substantial challenges that remain, particularly the concealed mechanical installations that need addressing before moving forward.

Technical details of the construction were discussed, including the ongoing work on the building’s rafters and the installation of windows. The contractor assured the board that the window installation process would be efficient, with windows already checked for fit and ready to be sealed within a week of installation. The board sought reassurance about the moisture levels within the building, which had been a concern due to open walls allowing water ingress. The representative stated that while some moisture had accumulated, the application of the roof AVB had largely mitigated direct rain exposure, and the substrate for the walls was sufficiently dry to proceed with work.

Board members expressed satisfaction with the quality of workmanship, noting the precision in cuts and the contractors’ diligence in addressing any issues. Despite the optimism expressed by the construction team, board members were cautious, emphasizing the need for realistic assessments of the construction timeline.

In addition to construction updates, the meeting also focused on the interior design of the library, specifically the color palette for the walls. The board considered several options, ultimately leaning towards a palette that incorporated earth tones, including greens, corals, and yellows, to complement the building’s exterior slate. A point of discussion was the need for the door colors to contrast with the walls, to assist individuals with low visual acuity in locating them easily. This sparked a debate about balancing aesthetic appeal with functional accessibility.

The board acknowledged the importance of finalizing color decisions in the actual space, proposing to wait until the drywall was completed to conduct paint trials. This approach would allow for a better assessment of how the colors interact with both natural and artificial lighting. Concerns were raised about the lack of physical samples during the meeting, which hindered the board’s ability to fully visualize the proposed color combinations. Members stressed the importance of accurate color representation to ensure the chosen palette would harmonize with the library’s overall design.

Shelving design was another focus of the discussion, with the board deciding against the use of maple panels for the free-standing shelving. Instead, they opted for wood canopy tops and end panels, with a gray inset color that would align with the final selection for metal shelving. This decision was influenced by the desire for cohesion between the shelving units and other design elements.

The meeting also addressed logistical considerations, including the scheduling of a walk-through of the library site. A date was set for April 3, although attendance was contingent on weather conditions, as mud could impede access. Some members were unable to attend due to prior commitments, prompting suggestions to postpone until the building was weathertight.

Further discussions encompassed the dedication plaque, focusing on correcting typographical errors and ensuring consistent formatting. The board discussed the inclusion of the “Friends of the Library” and emphasized the need for the plaque to accurately reflect contributions while maintaining visual clarity. The importance of addressing these formatting issues was highlighted to prevent misrepresentation of the involved parties.

The meeting concluded with plans to finalize the date of the next meeting, with members favoring a poll to accommodate everyone’s schedules. The board agreed to continue discussions via Zoom to ensure ongoing collaboration and decision-making.