Mattapoisett Library Trustees — October 15, 2026

The Mattapoisett Library Trustees met on October 15, 2026, opening with the approval of minutes and a review of the treasurer's report. Board members reviewed budget lines roughly one quarter through the fiscal year, noting that professional services and maintenance appeared high due to front-loaded annual SAILS network assessment and OverDrive fees. Library Director Jenny presented her report, highlighting approximately $13,000 to $14,000 currently held in state aid with another $19,000 expected. She detailed facility updates including AC repairs and potential boiler pump replacements by CAM HVAC, a new camera order from Higgins Security, and IT consulting by Integrus. The library also received a $6,000 grant for the Marine Room archivist consultation, planned a November 20 AI workshop funded by a digital equity grant, and ordered $18,000 in equipment for the children's media lab.

The board examined library circulation and usage metrics, celebrating that Mattapoisett Library ranked first among all 38 SAILS network libraries in per-capita physical circulation (11.83 items per resident) and interlibrary borrowing/lending, as well as third in Libby digital checkouts. Discussions also touched upon collection development criteria, maintaining Sunday operating hours with substitute Alex, and the Friends of the Library raising $900 from their recent book sale ahead of their December jewelry sale.

In business items, the trustees reviewed the formation of a Strategic Planning Committee, considering committee size, potential open meeting law constraints, and reviewing a shortlist of planning consultants. Trustees discussed filling a board vacancy following coordination with the Select Board, which opted to post the seat despite three viable candidates (Elizabeth Milde, Carol Brennan, and Ed Ottensmeyer) already having been vetted. Finally, trustees discussed establishing an evaluation rubric by February for Director Jenny's performance review ahead of the spring budget cycle before adjourning.

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