Minutes for the June 10 Trustees Meeting

The meeting convened at 3 p.m. outside the library. Present were Cindy Binzen, Rachel Kurland, Miriam Newman, Curt Albee, Carol Wilson, Melissa Strayton (librarian) and Marty Frank.

Minutes from the March meeting were approved. No meetings were held in April or May because of the pandemic.

Librarian’s Report:  Melissa proposed modeling our reopening plan on that of the Baldwin Memorial Library, largely because it’s fairly simple and seems appropriate for a library our size. Based on that model, we would move into Phase 2 on July 1, which would allow limited access into the building with patrons encouraged to use our curbside service as much as possible. Once the library is reopened to the public, we would allow two people into the building at one time (making for a total of three when including the librarian) and they would be asked to make appointments for their visits. Such a limit reflects the relatively small floor space of the library, which makes social distancing difficult when more than a few people are inside. Melissa believes that we can address ventilation needs through the use of doors, windows and fans. She has also obtained a free sneeze-guard from the state that will arrive ready to be installed. The computers will be available for public use and will be cleaned after each use. While other libraries are discouraging congregating by removing their furniture, Melissa and the trustees agreed this would be unnecessary. 

Melissa has already begun accepting some returns on a limited basis but is waiting for the results of a study being performed for museums and libraries before deciding what protocol to put in place. In the meantime, returned materials are being held for two weeks before being put back in circulation. She also wants to require that returns be brought directly to the library to minimize the handling required when we accept them at the drop boxes at Coburn’s and the Post Office. During Phase 2, the library will be open more hours  and patrons will need to wear masks while in the library.  Volunteers will be able to work at the library if they’re comfortable doing so and are by themselves. 

Melissa will put together a draft of how Phase 2 for the trustees to review. 

In the meantime, we’ll need to obtain gloves, masks and whatever other protective gear will be necessary to safely open the building. The state has promised to provide a supply of sanitizing gel to all libraries. Melissa said she’ll get the Inter Library Loan program activated next week so it will be operational when the library reopens. Various museums and state parks are starting to reopen, so Melissa plans to get new passes purchased.

Miscellaneous: Reshocking and testing the well should probably happen before the library reopens; Curt said he’ll pick up a testing kit from the Town Office. Slate roof repairs and repointing of the brickwork remain to be done. Curt met with Frank Brown who recommended that we repaint the front entrance; the rest of the building looked fine. Curt will ask him to also sand and paint the railing on the front steps. Brent Cadwell returned to do some follow-up landscaping around the new septic system he installed; Curt thinks there’s still some work to be done. The leak in the basement where the water line enters the building remains a problem. The new sign is being made; Rocky Fuller has constructed the frame and painted it.

The date of our next meeting is uncertain. The personnel committee will meet with Melissa at some point after that meeting.

Submitted by Marty Frank