Richmond Free Library
Trustees Meeting
January 3, 2019
Present: Jenna Bisset, Laurie Dana, Jana Brown, and Ellen Crary.
Absent: Keith Franz and Rebecca Mueller
Minutes Approved
Minutes from the December meeting were unanimously approved.
Treasurer’s Report
No report available, Treasurer absent.
New Business
It was noted at a recent event, that children were observed standing on the couch in the mezzanine and hanging out the window. This presents a serious safety hazard and potential liability issue. It was suggested by the trustees that a lock be built so that the window does not open far enough for a child to fit through. And that this should happen as soon as possible.
It was noted that a third bid was needed for the front desk plan. Ellen and Laurie have connected Rebecca with Brian Carpenter- who said he was willing and able to submit a bid.
Librarians Report
Laurie referred to an email Rebecca had sent her prior to the meeting.
-Rebecca asked that extra portions be brought for the volunteer brunch. Wendy did an invitation and sign up. Trustees suggested, because of the larger numbers expected this year with the dedication of the Eileen Buxton room, that a Sign Up Genius be created to insure enough food gets brought. Trustees are happy to contribute.
-Town meeting day report for the library was sent out.
– It was reported that the library had been VERY busy. Trustees can attest to this as each time we came it was quite busy!
Volunteer Brunch/ Buxton Dedication
-It was suggested that sticky name tags be available for attendees.
-Trustees are willing to help with whatever needs filling in.
-Trustees will invite Christie and Josh (the new town manager)
-Laurie will talk to Rebecca about getting flowers for the tables as well as for the volunteers. Kristen is making her caramels for the volunteers.
-Trustees were hoping a photo will be taken at the event to provide to Times Ink and the Town Report. Laurie had also suggested doing a write up for the Times Ink.
Recruitment for Treasurer
A write up was done advertising the position on Front Porch Forum. Rebecca was the contact. Trustees were unsure if anyone has written to her to inquire about the position. Ellen has a neighbor that was interested. Contact with Rebecca and Laurie has been made with the interested party.
Action for Partnerships- Strategic Plan
Trustees feel that this has been a successful and positive aspect as it is written in the the strategic plan and does not need modifying.
The trustees thought that the library, especially as it has gotten busier, needs an accessible and comfortable outdoor space for the community members to enjoy. This would extend outreach to more and perhaps a more diverse group within our community. The trustees are interested in spearheading this project as a community project. Laurie will ask Josh about permits needed. The fundraising letter this year will incorporate the new outdoor meeting area and patio as a community funded project.
It was suggested that the chocolate egg hunt at Easter time be done again. It was popular and enjoyed by many. Trustees wondered if there a reason this was not done again.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ellen Crary
Secretary Board of Trustees
