A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the future of the MacArthur building. There is a pressing need to determine the feasibility of renovating the existing structure versus constructing a new library. The board is exploring these options, driven by the necessity to meet the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) grant submission deadline by December. This grant is important for securing funding for a new library. However, the possibility of renovating the MacArthur building remains a contentious topic, with community interest and structural challenges at the forefront of the discussion.

The MacArthur building, currently a functioning school, poses several structural and regulatory obstacles. The layout does not meet the spatial requirements of a modern library, necessitating upgrades, including seismic enhancements and compliance with energy and accessibility codes. Particular issues involve the building’s two-story design and limited accessibility, with only one lift-equipped entrance. These complexities fuel the debate on whether renovation is a viable option.

The board also reviewed the implications of Article 97, which protects certain parcels of land. Legal opinions regarding these parcels, including where the MacArthur school sits, are not expected until December, adding another layer of complexity to the decision-making process. The board is mindful of community sentiments regarding the building’s potential reuse and is committed to transparency and communication throughout the process.

To address these concerns, the board is considering engaging a structural engineer to conduct a visual assessment of the MacArthur building. This assessment is critical to understanding the building’s current condition and the extent of renovations required to meet public library standards. The findings will be essential for presenting a comprehensive case to the select board and the public.

In parallel, discussions about the new library site focused on parcel 60, which holds the MacArthur school, and parcel 50, designated as open space. The preferred location for the new library is the northeast corner of parcel 60, offering visibility and accessibility from Route 28. This site promises enhanced public engagement and community interaction, with plans for a shared parking area accommodating the library and the school.

Board members emphasized the importance of a balanced approach, keeping options open for both renovation and new construction. The urgency of the grant submission deadline necessitates a clear presentation of all options at the upcoming select board meeting. The board aims to gather comprehensive data and community feedback to guide informed decision-making.

During the meeting, the board also discussed the dramatic increase in meeting room bookings at the library, which rose from 30 to 435 bookings in one year. This 1350% increase underscores the library’s growing role as a community hub. The board sees this as a vital metric for understanding community engagement and planning future resources.

Efforts to improve public access to information were highlighted, with a focus on the library’s website navigation and communication strategies. The board is working to make project information more accessible, preventing misinformation and fostering public engagement. Suggestions included clearer website headings, an email link for inquiries, and a comments section to facilitate community interaction.