Present: Robert Cartolano (President), Library Director Tracy Wright, Rosetta McArdle, Patrick Pilla, Leslye Davidson, Lisa Sclavo, and Darlene Reda. Geri LaMura and Geri Parisi, active members of Friends of the Library, were also in attendance. The meeting convened at 6:35 pm.
The minutes from the May 14, 2025 meeting were reviewed and unanimously approved.
President Cartolano discussed “e-rate” funds, explaining that they come from the federal government to support internet services. These funds may be eliminated as part of the newest Appropriations bill. Hoopla Digital’s fees are charged on a “per take-out” basis. As a result, Hoopla uses a larger piece of the WLS budget. The challenge is to strike a balance between budget and usage. E-book licensing reform passed in CT, but did not go through in NY.
The Marjorie Fox reception, previously scheduled for June 20, has been moved back to a later date. The Jazz Band will be making a return to the library, while EPL “mini golf” is teed-up to make its first appearance at an upcoming free event to welcome the community to the library. Staff BBQ is scheduled for July 11th on the patio.
Director Wright met yesterday with the Friends; they expressed willingness to do a matching grant for EPL.
The elevator saga continues to have its ups and downs...recently, four feet of water accumulated in the shaft due to pump failure. However, a plumber subsequently tested the pump and it was working. Questions: why wasn’t an alarm installed? Is this a defective product or negligence issue? Otis has not been paid yet because the elevator was still making noise.
ACTION ITEM: A motion to approve the expenditure of up to $21,377.82 to repair parts damaged by water in the elevator shaft. Guidance is needed from the Building Department. After lengthy discussion, the motion was approved.
ACTION ITEM: Motion to approve the closing of the library on June 20, 2025 so that staff can shift collections and tend to other needed tasks was unanimously approved. The Book Sale room will remain open.
The NYS Construction grant application portal is now open. The Rashkoff Room air conditioner is considered a repair and therefore not eligible for this grant. A discussion was held regarding heat in the entryway. Wright is not as enthusiastic about the meeting pods, partially due to relocation of collections. She is considering putting more money into digital collections next year. The Board was asked to share any comments about the 2026 budget with Director Wright.
Appreciation for the Friends’ generosity was expressed; the Friends have funded a lot of programs as well as a beautiful eight-page booklet for the Children’s Reading Game.
Building Committee: See above regarding ongoing projects.
Trustee Davidson gave a shout-out to the kids who participate in the History Bee through EPL, sharing that they are crushing it nationally! Congratulations to all the EPL History Bee participants.
None.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:01 pm.
Next meeting is scheduled for August 13, 2025.
Respectfully submitted,
Darlene E. Reda