Minutes of the Oct. 11 Trustees Meeting


The meeting convened at 7 p.m. at the library. 


Attending were Cindy Binzen, Melissa Strayton (librarian), Rachel Kurland, Kevin Lynch, Becky Proulx and Miriam Newman.


Friends Report:  None.


Librarian's Report:  Melissa has received and processed the latest book orders. The Newton School

bus schedule has changed and the bus is not dropping children at the library for the afterschool program

until after 3:30. The program currently ends at 4:30. Sarah has offered to stay later and Melissa has

contacted parents of participants asking for feedback. There are seven registered participants and

attendance is usually four or five. Sarah has given notice for the end of the year. The Board discussed

possible replacement options for someone to run the children's programs (afterschool and summer)

starting in January. There was some discussion of the Palace and Overdrive/Libby audio and ebooks

programs; each has different libraries, with Overdrive/Libby having access to a much more extensive

collection. Melissa will continue to promote these programs to patrons. Melissa submitted the Turrell

Report but did not have a completed 990 form to include; Rachel will follow up. Melissa continues to

communicate with Artistree about a Saturday program for children.


Treasurer's Report:  P&L statements were submitted. The board discussed the increase in costs for

various services and the COLA increase this year for salaries. Future allocation of funds and access to

savings will be considered at the planning/strategy retreat.


Other Business: The trustees welcomed Becky Proulx to the board. The board decided that Becky will

fill the remainder of Miriam's Harris trustee slot and Miriam was appointed by the board to be a Morrill

trustee. Kevin will be host for the upcoming presentation by Laura Ogden (November 8). Melissa will

follow up on the needed door painting. West Wilson looked at the roof and confirmed that the best plan

is to replace the roof altogether; we can continue to make repairs as needed but they are likely to grow

more extensive with time. Rachel offered to draft the appeals letter. The draft patron questionnaire was

reviewed and discussed. Work on it continues.


Our next meeting will be Monday, November 13, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.


Submitted by Miriam Newman