The meeting room policy was a major topic of conversation, with board members dissecting various aspects, such as usage fees and scheduling priorities. With the library’s new meeting room capable of hosting up to 50 people, the board debated whether to implement a fee structure for private events. One proposal suggested aligning fees with those of local venues, such as a $100 charge for private social functions and a similar refundable cleaning deposit. The board considered the potential revenue these fees could generate but also recognized the library’s mission to serve the community. Some members advocated for initially restricting private events until the library becomes more accustomed to managing its space. This approach, they argued, would allow the library to prioritize town-sponsored nonprofit groups and ensure the community benefits from the library’s resources.

The board also discussed how the meeting room would function outside regular library hours. Concerns were raised about the strain on staff resources, but the library director acknowledged a community demand for such services, albeit on a limited basis. The board contemplated various fee structures, including hourly rates, to accommodate different types of events while managing operating costs. A potential rate of $25 per hour for residents and $35 for non-residents was discussed, taking into account the need to cover expenses like heating and lighting.

Another subject was the proposed installation of EV charging stations at the library. While the energy committee has explored partnerships with companies to provide public charging, the library’s limited parking space poses a challenge. The board noted the library’s current parking capacity of twelve spots, emphasizing that dedicating spaces for EV charging could restrict access for library patrons. A participant suggested allowing EV charging during non-peak hours or when the library is closed to mitigate potential conflicts.

The board expressed skepticism about whether the library is the ideal location for EV charging, given its limited parking. Alternative locations, such as the town hall or highway department, were suggested as better options due to their larger parking areas. While there is interest in supporting sustainable initiatives like EV charging, the trustees agreed that the library’s primary function as a community resource takes precedence. The conversation highlighted the importance of maintaining flexibility and ensuring that any future installations do not impede access for library users.

In addition to these discussions, the board addressed several logistical matters, including scheduling future meetings and budget considerations. The meeting concluded with a consensus to revisit the meeting room policy at the next meeting, recognizing the need for further deliberation before finalizing any decisions. The board also acknowledged the potential closure of the current library for several weeks during the transition to the new space, emphasizing the importance of keeping abreast of developments.