Present: Library Director Tracy Wright, Robert Cartolano (President), Rosetta McArdle, Patrick Pilla, James Martin, Astra Tudisco, and Darlene Reda. Councilman Giacobbe, the newly designated Town Board/EPL liaison, also attended the meeting.
The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m. Minutes from the October 18, 2023 meeting were reviewed and unanimously approved with one revision.
President Cartolano informed the board that “Mango” and two other programs have been added to on-demand streaming for libraries.
Building updates: The water remediation project should be finished within the next three weeks. Elevator estimates are coming in a little lower than expected. The ADA-compliant restrooms were approved last night. Elevator, bathrooms, and water fountains, along with landscaping, will change the look of the library. Landscaping would include a memorial tree for Glenn Bellitto and a bench for Norma Warner. Director Wright is considering moving the Children’s Room to the lower level; she has consulted with Creative Library Designs in this regard. David Vinjamuri, merchandiser, has interesting ideas regarding mobile shelving. The Friends’ Finance Committee will be meeting next week.
Finance: The budget has been approved. If elevator budget comes in lower than anticipated, the savings may help with the fund balance.
Library Services: Director Wright is meeting with Springshare again tomorrow regarding public presentation of library services, including museum passes, event sharing, and the EPL website. The Friends will be holding an April book sale and are considering a Wine & Cheese fundraising event.
President Cartolano asked how AI can augment library services. How do we demystify AI? Aspen Discovery System could be extended.
See above.
In April, Jonathan will be attending the PLA conference in Ohio. Next Trustee Institute presentation focuses on library/municipality relationships. Trustees are invited to attend or watch a recording of the presentation at a later date. Question: should we open up earlier on Sundays? Director Wright is considering doing this in September rather than October. Sheila Marcotte contacted Director Wright regarding parking lot use for the annual Town Tag Sale.
None.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:49 pm. Next meeting is scheduled for February 21, 2024.
Respectfully submitted,
Darlene E. Reda