05/17/2022 BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES Minutes

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significant rust damage, which needs to be addressed. The layout of the room and shelving designs were also questioned. The Library Director will contact the MBLC building and construction specialists to see if there are resources who could provide space planning guidance. Children's Program Room: The plexiglass panels used during COVlD-19 are still stored in the Program Room,which hinders use of the space. The DPW has indicated they will move the panels to storage as soon as they are able to do so. In the past, the Program Room was closed for use by families and children unless a library activity was in progress. The goal is to open that room for use on a regular basis as a homework place or area for families to do self- directed art projects,puzzles, or play games. The Library Director wants the space to be used as much as possible. Children's Garden: The bricks in the garden are failing and pushing up out of the ground. The metal edges are sticking up and are hazardous. The fence is moldy and weathered. It needs to be replaced. The discussion centered on the need to renovate this area,which has become unsafe and an eye sore. The proposed plan includes removing all of the bricks and removing the fence from its current location. The new fence would encompass a greater area, which could be used for activities and story times. The abstract statue which is currently in that area would be moved to a different location. Further discussion on funding should happen at an upcoming meeting: CPC funds, Friends of the Library funding, and Capital budget request are all possible options. Returned to Conference Room to continue meeting. The Library Director noted that the Library hosted the Local Comprehensive Plan meeting the previous Saturday in the Event Room. It went very well, and they are looking for input from boards and committees. Friends Liaison Rg°)ort The Friends of the Library sponsored the annual mini-golf event and were pleased with the turnout and local sponsorships which raised money for the Library. June 9, Nathaniel Philbrick's author talk and luncheon will be held at Willowbend, and the cost is $75. The Friends are still contemplating ideas to honor Andy Kane, a board member who recently passed away. Memorials,gifts, naming requests and bequests were discussed. The Library Director noted that the Library should be inclusive and welcoming to all,and the need to consider if that is compatible with conventional naming practices where institutions generally honor, or memorialize individuals in response to monetary donations. Can we develop a best practice that does not reflect this model? The Library does not have unlimited space or the ability to place names and plaques in the building, or on items. The board should develop a list of projects that reflect the needs of the Library, and serve the public, and accept donations that support these common goals rather than initiating new projects to create naming opportunities. No policy can account for all scenarios, and the policy says gifts are accepted at the discretion of the Trustees, rather than the Friends of the Library. This needs to be followed. The board needs to be proactive rather than reactive in this regard.