The potential acquisition of an AED machine was a central topic during the meeting. The device, to be provided at no cost except for a $20 training card, was proposed to enhance the library’s preparedness for medical emergencies. The trustees discussed placing the AED in a visible location within the library, although the final placement was not determined. The conversation also touched on other AEDs in the town, such as those located in local parks and schools, though there was uncertainty about their precise locations.

There was no official vote taken on the matter, but the consensus was that increasing trained responders within the community would be advantageous. The potential for more staff members to undergo training was acknowledged, and feedback was encouraged.

In addition to the AED, the library staff recently participated in Narcan training to prepare them to administer the opioid overdose reversal medication. Five staff members completed the training, facilitated by the Southeastern Massachusetts Public Health Collaboration. The meeting also considered the installation of a Narcan box containing Narcan and CPR equipment for public access. The exact placement of this box remained undecided.

Another topic was a security incident involving damage to the library’s property. The meeting addressed an incident where two trucks entered the library’s back lawn, unloaded ATVs, and caused a fence to topple. Security cameras captured the event, and the detective assigned to the case was informed. Although there was no intention to press charges, there was a desire to make those responsible aware of the private nature of the property. The fence was repaired, although further reinforcement was needed due to wet ground conditions.

Safety and maintenance of the library building were also discussed. The library grounds were undergoing tree trimming to address branches encroaching on the building. A collaboration with the Boy Scouts was planned for a cleanup event on November 15th, where they would help spread mulch purchased by the Friends of the Library to suppress weeds and improve the grounds’ appearance.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing staff efforts to manage the library’s resources and community engagement. The library has returned to full staffing after a brief period of being short-staffed, and staff members are currently engaged in a weeding project to reduce the number of DVDs occupying space. Six local cultural grants have been submitted, with the results anticipated in December.

Community programs continue to attract significant interest, as evidenced by the success of the story time program, drawing 18 to 24 participants per session. Upcoming events include a drop-in Halloween craft event, a Lego club meeting, and a documentary film screening about widowers, sponsored by the Friends of the Library.