The meeting began with an update on the construction progress, emphasizing the imminent completion of the new library. Work on the site included the installation of light fixtures and carpet, with glass doors for various rooms expected to be installed soon. A temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO) was anticipated by the end of the following week, signaling substantial progress. The TCO is crucial, as it ensures critical life safety features are operational, providing safe egress routes in case of emergencies. It was clarified that while the paving of the site was not required for the TCO, paved walkways to the building’s principal entry points were necessary to ensure accessibility.

Concerns about lighting in the quiet adult reading area were addressed, noting that some recessed linear light fixtures did not match the required dimensions, complicating installation. Temporary lighting solutions were discussed, and it was confirmed that ceiling panels were being installed, a requirement for the TCO. The timeline for the electrical inspector’s visit was also questioned, with ongoing discussions about the need for emergency lighting fixtures to be operational.

The board was informed that the town’s insurance coverage would not activate until the TCO is secured, a critical point to consider regarding the timing of moving furniture into the library. The prospect of moving items before receiving a TCO was debated, highlighting the risks involved, such as potential damage to furniture and the logistical challenges of early access.

Amid these discussions, attention turned to the library’s backup power solution. A quote for a rollup generator was presented, priced around $63,000. The cost was noted as ineligible for funding, leading to skepticism about the practicality of purchasing the generator. The conversation explored the feasibility of renting a generator versus purchasing one, with the consensus leaning towards gathering more information about rental options, including availability and costs during emergencies. The board acknowledged the importance of a backup energy source, especially recalling the severe storm in 2008 that caused prolonged power outages.

As the meeting progressed, the board discussed the library’s official opening event, tentatively scheduled for January 10th. Organizers planned for a multifaceted event, including a morning session for speakers, an afternoon event for young children, and an evening gathering for teens. Logistical concerns were debated, such as the potential cold weather, which led to suggestions for limiting speech durations.

In addition to the official opening, the board discussed a community-focused event involving a book brigade. The event aimed to engage families, with children participating by cutting their own ribbon. The board anticipated a large turnout, drawing from the previous groundbreaking ceremony that attracted around 250 attendees. The book brigade was planned to coincide with the installation of shelving, expected to begin soon. The event’s timing was debated, with the Saturday and Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend identified as potential dates. Concerns about attendance and the necessity of a police detail were discussed.

The meeting also highlighted the efforts of the Friends of the Library, who reported on the upcoming Turkey Trot event. The event had seen several registrants and raised over $10,000 in sponsorships. A “finishing touches campaign” was launched, aiming to raise funds for various items needed for the library, with approximately $19,000 already raised. Additionally, a fundraising effort involving Florence Bank was discussed, with the board encouraged to solicit votes from the community to benefit from a grant.

The board’s timeline for moving into the new building was outlined, with hopes of securing a TCO in early December. This would allow for some programming to occur within the library, albeit not fully open to the public. A sneak peek for Friends of the Library members was suggested, facilitating the quorum needed for an official meeting regarding the library’s name change.