A key highlight of the meeting was the Kingston 300th anniversary celebration, scheduled to include a book release documenting the town’s history. The book, set for release in mid-October, has completed seven of its eleven sections, offering a mix of visual material and narratives. A community reception is planned for November 8th at the Adam Center.

The Kingston 300 committee is collaborating with the library to host an array of events, including a “then and now” photo exhibit. Historian Patrick Brown is expected to present groundbreaking research on Kingston’s Civil War history, adding depth to the celebration. The board emphasized the importance of recognizing the library’s partnership rather than merely acting as a funding source.

In addition to the celebration, the library’s staffing situation was addressed. A vacancy for the teen librarian position was announced following the current librarian’s resignation, effective August 1. Preparations for revising the job description were discussed. The summer reading program, beginning the week of July 7, promises a robust lineup for adults, teens, and children, with incentives such as raffle tickets and gift card prizes for participants.

The board also explored the potential implementation of a new Integrated Library System (ILS) by the Old Colony Library Network. This system aims to enhance staff efficiency, allowing for improved task management. Ongoing webinars focus on productivity and audience targeting.

Financial discussions highlighted the necessity for conservative budgeting in the upcoming years. The library’s end-of-year budget was scrutinized to ensure proper financial oversight and accountability. The meeting included dialogue about the financial status of the library, with emphasis on avoiding waste as the fiscal year concludes.

The library’s website redesign was nearing completion, pending the submission of updated images and color schemes. Although the launch timeline remains unspecified, this redesign aligns with efforts to modernize the library’s digital presence.

HVAC issues were reported, with inconsistent temperature regulation within the library. Freezing conditions in the children’s area and lack of air conditioning on one side of the building prompted contact with the HVAC company for resolution. Additionally, supply usage discrepancies between the library and town hall were addressed, with higher consumption rates attributed to increased visitor traffic.

Statistics revealed a decrease in checkouts compared to the previous fiscal year, yet the library was recognized as the most improved facility to date. Efforts to engage teens include innovative programming and outreach to local schools.