01/12/2000 LIBRARY BUILDING COMMITTEE Minutes

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In support of increasing the existing space, Mr. Lucker stated the existing building space was undersized and insufficient for the needs of the Town from the outset and should now be doubled in size. He suggested that perhaps the voters will need to be reminded of this fact at Town Meeting. He stated the importance of being able to defend the proposed library expansion, as well as to continually educate and inform the public of the library needs . Helene DeFoe noted a climate change within the Town whereas recent automation and additional staffing have been approved by the voters within the past few years. She stated there is community support for the library project, and that she has not experienced any negativity towards the project to date. The Chairman acknowledged Public Awareness efforts put forth by Trustee Member, Mimi Marsh. Ms. Powers inquired as to current competing projects within the Town. Trustee Member, Anton Buschenfeldt responded a portion of the Town Hall remains unfinished, and the Fire Station project . Helene DeFoe reported the Library project is next on the capital plan, followed by a Leisure Services/Senior Center project, and the possibility of a junior high school project . The Committee reported there are no current major school renovations, and that there has been no recent vote for an override. There was brief discussion regarding the current indebtedness/bonding of the Town, as well as current impacts on Town taxes. Helene DeFoe noted that the Town of Mashpee taxes are inclusive. She also reported that the Town debt is rapidly falling off and that the intention is to maintain a steady level of debt, approximately 10% to 12% per year in order to accomplish some of these necessary capital projects. Mr. Lucker noted there are no guidelines for public libraries as they might apply to the constant growth factors of the Town. He recommended that at some point the collection space be capped. He also recommended that the proposed program meet the following criteria, to serve the program and collection needs, as well as the personal needs of the foreseeable future. He explained that some of his determinations would be based upon intuition and that the focus should be placed upon the quality of space, not the amount of space. There was brief discussion regarding State regulations and determinations. Mr. Lucker stated they seek dramatic, significant, substitive improvements representing long-term solutions. He suggested a consult with authorities from the State be scheduled in the spring. Mr. Lucker then suggested an afternoon workshop/meeting be scheduled in order to determine a basic program outline. The -4-