Mattapoisett Library Trustees — May 21, 2026

The Mattapoisett Library Board of Trustees met on May 21, 2026, to review year-end financials, receive the Director's report, hear an update from the Friends of the Library, and elect new board officers. Treasurer Mike and Library Director Jenny reviewed the budget status as the fiscal year neared completion, noting that approximately 89% of the year had elapsed with all lines tracking appropriately. Director Jenny explained the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) materials expenditure requirement, which requires 19% of the appropriated operating budget to be spent on reading materials to preserve state certification and SAILS network lending access. She noted the annual book budget was around $112,500 (rising to $130,000 for FY27) with about $6,200 remaining in the line item.

In the Director's report, Jenny announced that the town meeting approved the library's upcoming fiscal year budget. Personnel updates included promoting Felicia from library technician to part-time librarian and hiring Betsy as the new adult services librarian from Elizabeth Tabor Library. Facility updates included newly completed flooring, upcoming mezzanine plaster repair, and ongoing attic cleanout to remediate fire hazards. Trustees also discussed next steps for the Story Garden project funded in part by a $30,000 Prudy grant, potential collaboration with the Library Trust, and prioritizing a town-wide strategic planning process in the upcoming fiscal year. Felice Kearns presented on behalf of the Friends of the Library, reporting a current fund balance of approximately $14,000, over $1,000 raised at the April book sale, and plans for the July Harbor Days book sale.

Under new business, the board held its annual election of officers. Because current clerk Elizabeth is entering a graduate program at Boston University in the fall and will attend meetings remotely, the board elected Gene as the new clerk, with Gene abstaining. Mike was re-elected as treasurer, and Bill Coquillette was elected as board chair, succeeding Jenny in running board meetings. The meeting was then adjourned.

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