A major point of concern was the library’s position in the town’s ten-year capital plan, as it has not yet been included while other projects have been prioritized. The board members discussed the importance of defining the library’s timeline and financial needs to secure its place in future town meetings. The lack of state approval for the project adds to the uncertainty surrounding its funding.

The conversation also covered the potential use of the MacArthur School building as a library, sparking inquiries into public concerns and the feasibility of this proposal. There was a call for a study to explore this possibility further, but the vague wording of the related article led to uncertainty about its specifics. The board acknowledged the need for clarity to avoid public confusion, particularly as the topic is intertwined with broader town financial requests.

Design and logistical aspects of the new library were also prominently discussed. A presentation by landscape architects focused on parking plans, proposing a design that incorporates feedback from previous meetings. The plan aims to balance parking needs with the library’s aesthetic and functional requirements. The proposal to relocate the road and parking arrangement to enhance accessibility and visibility was met with mixed reactions, considering the zoning laws that might demand a larger parking capacity.

The board also delved into the building’s architectural layout, considering elements such as operable windows, solar panel readiness, and overall space management. The building is planned to be 21,000 square feet with a design that emphasizes visibility and operational efficiency. Discussions highlighted the challenge of managing such a large space while ensuring effective staff deployment, particularly in areas like the children’s wing. The potential for solar panels was discussed, with insights shared on optimal installation for energy efficiency.

Efforts to improve communication about the library project were another focal point. The board discussed enhancing the accessibility of information on the town’s website, acknowledging gaps in how library updates are presented to the public. Recommendations included hiring a consulting team to assist with the website’s upkeep and creating a video to share library milestones. Internal communication within the town was also scrutinized, with suggestions for informal meetings to keep all departments informed about the library’s progress.

In the realm of public outreach, updates were shared about communication with local schools to ensure community awareness. The board considered the importance of strategic planning and documentation to support the library’s case for funding and development. A strategic planning study was suggested to compare renovation versus new building costs, with varying opinions on how to approach this assessment.

The financial aspects of the library’s renovation were debated, emphasizing the need for comprehensive documentation to support the project’s financial requests. It was suggested that the board might need to present a report to the select board detailing the building’s condition and suitability for library use.