Library Trustees

BEDFORD FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Minutes

July 19, 2005

 

Meeting Called to Order at 8:00 p.m.

 

Present: Trustees D. Crowell, R. Dorer, R. Dyer, L. O’Connor, M. Ross, and P. Russo.

Director R. Callaghan and Assistant Director V. Abraham were also present.

 

Interim Trustee

Interview of Fifth Candidate

Mr. Howard Cohen enthusiastically expressed his interest in the position as interim trustee.  Trustee O’Connor moderated the interview process using the same pre-established process used with previous candidates.

 

Interim Candidate Selection

Trustees noted that the candidates were exceptional and Bedford is fortunate to have eager and talented volunteers.  It was noted that all candidates would be reminded that the March town elections would include two 3-year trustee terms and a single 1-year term (completion of term for trustee who resigned).

 

After a consideration and discussion of the candidates M. Ross motioned to accept Michael Pulizzi to fill the trustee vacancy through to the election in March.  L. O’Connor seconded. 

Vote 6-0

 

Secretary’s Report and Director’s Report: Due to prior meeting having been on July 13th there was no secretary’s report.

 

Old Business:

Carpet Discussion:

D. Crowell reported on research she had done on drink policy and potential effect on carpet condition.  Trustee Crowell indicated that almost all libraries in our area have no drink policies.  Ms. Crowell expressed concern that Bedford’s loose drink policy (covered cups only) is a detriment to the maintenance of the building.  Discussion between trustees included patron desire to have coffee with paper/magazine and kids juice during kid’s room events.  Debate over reason for carpet stain pattern suggesting causes other than drinks. Performance characteristics of the current carpet were also discussed. 

 

It was also noted that stain patterns will be noted and evaluated before any new carpet is purchased to assure carpet layout and carpet specifications to maximize maintenance ease and durability in the future.

 

M. Ross made a motion to enforce the current “covered drink” and no food policy and review the drink policy on an annual basis.   Motion was seconded by R. Dorer.

Vote 5-1

 

Linoleum and Tile:

Director Callaghan was asked to evaluate and suggest a solution to the linoleum and tile cosmetic appearance issues.

 

Lighting:

Front entrance lighting needs:  Director Callaghan met with Richard Jones from the Facilities Department relating to lighting needs for front entrance and will follow-up on discussion to conclude specific needs and timing. 

 

Parking lot lighting:  Director Callaghan confirmed that parking lot lighting would be completed this fall according to the information he received from the DPW.

 

Cigarette Canister: 

Director Callaghan was told that trustees had determined, after fall clean up of large cigarette litter, that we should purchase a cigarette canister for the front entrance.  Director Callaghan will look into this.

 

Library Gardens:

Trustees ask that Director Callaghan send a thank you to the Bedford Garden Club for another year of fantastic garden care.

 

Adjourn 9:15:

Motion to adjourn was made by L. O’Connor and seconded by R. Dorer.

Vote: 6-0