14:25The installation of an emergency exit at the Grand Marais Library was a major topic of discussion, driven by safety considerations and logistical challenges. Concerns about potential ice dams that could cause leaks highlighted the need for careful planning regarding the exit’s location. Proposals for protective measures, such as using sand and salt and implementing protective features around the base of the door, were considered to mitigate issues related to water and ice management. The current placement of air source heat pump units under the roofline further complicated matters, as they were susceptible to damage from snow and ice. Discussions with local construction companies were underway to explore additional roofing solutions to protect these units from wear and tear.

The board also assessed a proposal from Donald H Construction for the emergency exit project, which included constructing a door, a concrete pad, and necessary lighting as part of a turnkey solution. Despite the convenience of managing the project with a single contractor, there were concerns about the high costs associated with the proposal. Some board members suggested obtaining more quotes from alternative local contractors, including those in Duluth, to ensure competitive pricing. Furthermore, questions about potential hazardous materials abatement and the construction company’s responsibility for such matters were raised.

The meeting also addressed the need for electrical work within the library, particularly to secure connections for frequently used outlets. Changes in the staff room layout necessitated this work, with some reports of exposed wires related to the air source heat pump having been addressed. Such infrastructure improvements were deemed essential for maintaining a safe and functional environment for both staff and visitors.

In other infrastructure-related matters, the board reviewed quotes for replacing the library’s staff computers, which had reached their typical replacement age of five to six years. While public computers received a temporary update to extend their service life, staff computers required immediate attention. Three quotes were considered, with a strong preference for selecting a local vendor, Sundu Technology, due to their helpfulness during the implementation process. The board agreed on the importance of local service and expertise, ultimately passing a motion to adopt Sundu Technology’s proposal unanimously.

Community engagement was another focus of the meeting, as the library’s involvement in the region-wide “Nea Big Read” initiative was discussed. This project centers on the book “I Cheerfully Refused” by Le Anger, with other libraries in the area spearheading the grant management. The grant approval decision, expected in April, would determine the library’s level of participation in this cultural and educational endeavor.

0:00The Library Friends, represented by members of their board, provided an update on their activities and collaboration with the library. They discussed the suggestion of attending board meetings quarterly instead of monthly, allowing them to maintain meaningful engagement without overextending their resources. The Friends group had undergone organizational changes due to a member’s medical leave and emphasized the importance of geographical representation among its members. They reported on their collaboration with Odds and Ends, a local store where they sell donated books. Positive changes, including a more efficient sorting and selling process, had resulted in a cleaner and more organized facility, garnering favorable community feedback. The Friends group faced challenges with outdated or moldy book donations, necessitating a focus on recycling and finding new disposal solutions for unsellable items.

14:25The board also addressed the director’s performance review, opting for an evaluation format that focused on library performance rather than individual HR metrics. This approach aimed to highlight accomplishments and set priorities for future evaluation, a decision that was met with approval from board members. The revised evaluation tool will be shared with the city and adopted for use in the fall.