The election of officers was a key point of interest, as it set the leadership for the upcoming term. Kimberly H Harriman, having been nominated and confirmed as the new chair, will now lead the board. Katrina Wilcox Hagberg as treasurer will oversee the library’s financial management, with other members appointed to roles that will shape the board’s operations and engagement with the community.

The necessity of updating library policies was debated, emphasizing the policy committee’s important role in guiding these revisions. The board considered the utility of subcommittees, particularly those related to performance review and the Ray Grande scholarship, and whether these groups should conduct open meetings with recorded agendas and minutes.

The meeting also touched on the director’s performance review, noting that the process was currently underway. This evaluation is an essential aspect of ensuring effective library leadership and management.

Regarding the library’s operations and community engagement, the Friends’ report highlighted the successful book sale, ongoing online book sales, and preparations for the fall book sale. The report also detailed the library’s social media strategies aimed at increasing user engagement and the planning of a mini-golf event.

Building maintenance updates were discussed, including repairs to the Middle Gate and the front door, as well as the painting of the M room wall. These updates are part of the library’s continuous efforts to maintain and improve its facilities for public use.

The Director’s report provided an overview of staff participation in sexual harassment training, collaboration with town department heads, town meeting attendance, and the promotion of upcoming events. The report also covered operational challenges, such as issues arising from a fiber line cut, cleaning needs, and the recruitment for a facilities manager position.

Financially, it was reported that the library is on track and maintaining a good standing. However, there was a dialogue about the potential need for additional funds, accompanied by an explanation of the library’s current financial situation.

New business addressed during the meeting included the annual selection of board officers and roles, although specific details were not provided in the provided summaries. The board debated the scheduling of upcoming meetings, juggling conflicts with local events such as the eighth-grade graduation and accommodating the personal schedules of the members. After some discussion, a meeting date was settled upon, with the board ensuring the library’s availability for the chosen date.

Operational procedures such as payroll and invoice signatures were also on the agenda. The board approved a change in signatories after one trustee expressed fatigue from the responsibility, and another trustee stepped up to take over the role.

An email from the Town Administrator regarding a code of conduct for board members sparked a conversation about its relevance to the library board’s interactions with town hall employees. The board decided to defer a more in-depth discussion to a future date.

Lastly, the meeting included administrative updates, such as the creation of an electronic copy of the list of Library trustees and the sharing of an orientation packet for new board members. These actions aim to streamline board operations and effectively onboard new members.