One of the primary topics of discussion was the library’s HVAC system, which has caused discomfort due to inconsistent temperatures between the first and second floors. The Department of Public Works has been working to address these issues, with personnel seen on the roof working on the system. To temporarily mitigate the situation, two large fans were purchased, chosen for their noise level to help dampen ambient sounds on the second floor. The board acknowledged the need for further facility improvements, including upgrades to acoustics, flooring, lighting, and seating, all aligned with the library’s strategic plan.

Another concern was the cut in federal funding to the Institute of Museum and Library Services, a move that has led the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners to pause or cancel grant programs. This funding reduction poses a significant threat to the operations of libraries and museums nationwide. During the meeting, it was emphasized that advocacy for library funding is crucial, with the Friends of the Library playing a role in these efforts. They provided statistics to demonstrate the value of public libraries, noting that Massachusetts libraries receive 28 million in-person visits annually and that every dollar invested yields an estimated five dollars in services.

In light of these challenges, the Friends of the East Longmeadow Public Library were praised for their contributions, particularly during National Library Week. They provided treats for library staff and funded wishlist items, including new furniture and programming supplies. Their support extends to the large print collection, which has gained popularity among patrons, and they successfully generated community excitement with their spring raffles. The Friends also announced their annual report. This year, they awarded scholarships to two high school seniors, Jack Tudran and Audrey O’Neal, and discussed changes to their meeting schedule to align with library hours. They also welcomed new board members and noted the retirement of a long-serving director, Tom Watowski, who had contributed to library initiatives for over 34 years.

The board meeting also covered updates regarding the library’s programming and community engagement efforts. The children’s department reported 37 programs with a total attendance of 851 participants in April, including a successful vacation week featuring an Earth Day craft and a “Dogman” movie event. Plans for the summer reading program, set to launch on June 1 with a kickoff event on June 10, were shared, promising high engagement levels. A new teen program, the “Fandm Club,” received positive feedback, allowing teens to discuss their interests. Adult programming saw 12 events with 187 attendees, and a new seed library was launched, offering gardening workshops and seed packets to patrons.

In circulation updates, a slight decrease in items circulated was noted, attributed to fewer operational days and closures. The library circulated 14,404 items in April, with 49 new patron registrations. The board discussed the CW Mars app, which allows patrons to store their library card digitally. Additionally, a new digital museum pass for the EcoTarium in Worcester was introduced, with 98 reservations made in April. The library’s participation in National Library Week was highlighted, with various themed days celebrated.

The policy outlines the library’s responsibility to collect and preserve materials documenting East Longmeadow’s history, emphasizing works by local authors. The collection includes annual reports, yearbooks, genealogical information, maps, and photographs. The board reviewed and amended the policy to ensure clear language, particularly regarding the evaluation and acceptance of donated materials. A motion to accept the policy with noted amendments was made and seconded.