HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-03-10 Board of Library Trustees Packet
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
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2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Board of Library Trustees
Date: 2025-03-10 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Public Library Location: Community Room
Address: 64 Middlesex Avenue Agenda:
Purpose: General Business
Meeting Called By: Amy Lannon for Chair Cappy Popp
Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings exc luding
Saturdays, Sundays and Legal Holidays. Please keep in mind the Town Clerk’s hours of
operation and make necessary arrangements to be sure your posting is made in an
adequate amount of time. A listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates w ill be
discussed at the meeting must be on the agenda.
All Meeting Postings must be submitted in typed format; handwritten notices will not be accepted.
Topics of Discussion:
This meeting will be held in-person in the Community Room at the Reading Public
Library and remotely on Zoom. It will also be available streamed live through RCTV
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Meeting ID: 861 1729 7460
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The Trustees also accept public comments through email: rpltrustee@noblenet.org
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
Page | 2
I. Call to Order
II. Public Comment
III. Recognition of Trustee Retirement: Cherrie Dubois
IV. Spring Programming Update
V. Discussion and Vote on RMHS Girl Rising Club’s concession sale
request for Saturday, March 22nd movie screening fundraiser
VI. Discussion and Vote on Parking Recommendations for RMLD
regarding EV Chargers
VII. Review Updates to the Patron Rights and Responsibilities Policy:
Updating references
VIII. Review Updates to the Policy Regarding Minors: Adding language
regarding Tweens
IX. Financial Report
X. Director's Report
XI. Approval February 10, 2025, Meeting Minutes
XII. Future Agenda Items
a. April
i. OESJ Update
ii. New Trustee Introduction
iii. Vote on updates to Patron Rights and Responsibilities
Policy
iv. Vote on updates to Policy Regarding Minors
v. Discussion Regarding the Ad Hoc Library Landscape
Committee
b. May
c. June
i. Summer Programming Update
ii. VOTE: Election of Officers
iii. VOTE: FY26 Trustee Meeting Dates
iv. VOTE: CY26 Holiday Schedule
1 Patron Rights and Responsibilities
PATRON RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
This policy ensures that the Reading Public Library (Library) is an inclusive and
welcoming space and that users have equitable access to all Library programs and
services.
The Library provides impartial, high quality, and friendly service while acknowledging
the diverse needs and contributions of all people regardless of any distinguishing
characteristics that all too often divide people in society whether explicitly protected by
law or not.
Patron Rights
The Reading Public Library supports the rights of all individuals to:
1. Receive friendly, inclusive, and respectful service.
2. Have free and equitable access to information.
3. Expect privacy and the confidentiality of information shared with the Library when
using our website or other library services.
4. Have a clean, comfortable, and pleasant environment.
5. Use the Library without discrimination.
6. Use the Library undisturbed without threat of harm, invasion of property, or
interference.
Patron Responsibilities
All patrons are subject to public health, safety, fire, and other regulations which include
refraining from:
• Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or ingesting hallucinogenic substances inside
or within 50 feet outside of the building;
• Blocking sidewalks, entries, and passageways;
• Running or roughhousing in the building;
• Having bare feet in the building;
• Using skateboards, hoverboards, rollerblades, scooters or similar equipment
inside the building;
• Defacing or improperly removing Library materials, furnishings, or equipment ;
• Eating or drinking in the History Room or any location determined and clearly
marked as such by the staff for programming or Library service purposes;
• Littering: patrons must dispose of trash, wrappers, and empty containers in trash
and recycling bins;
2 Patron Rights and Responsibilities
• Entering areas marked as “Staff Only” or other restricted areas;
• Leaving unaccompanied children under the age of 9 10 (see the library’s “Safe
ChildResponsibilities Regarding Minors Policy”);
• Bringing in animals or pets except for properly leashed and trained service
animals.
General Library Use
To ensure individuals’ right to use the Library free of disruption, Library patrons will
refrain from disrespectful, dangerous, destructive, or illegal conduct, including but not
limited to the following behaviors:
1. Verbally or physically harassing, threatening, or bullying any staff member or
patron, or displaying unwanted attention toward another person.
2. Soliciting on Library property.
3. Carrying a weapon or a facsimile of a weapon.
4. Fighting, physical abuse, assault or perpetrating physical violence against
another person.
5. Making violent or threatening statements to others.
6. Engaging in intimidating or harassing behaviors, including following or stalking
other patrons or Library staff.
7. Refusing to follow reasonable direction from Library staff, including but not limited
to leaving the Library during normal closing procedures or following a suspension
of Library privileges.
8. Damaging, destroying, stealing, or otherwise vandalizing Library property.
9. Shouting, pushing, hitting, throwing things, and other boisterous conduct.
10. Talking in the sections of the Library reserved for quiet study.
11. Other audible disruptions in quiet or reduced noise zones. This includes cell
phone conversations, audio playback, and virtual meetings.
Many patrons use the Library as a place for quiet study or reading. Patrons will respect
the rights of others and not engage in disruptive conversations or activities. The
following noise zones and acceptable noise levels have been established:
Each zone has an acceptable noise level:
• Children's Room – Normal Conversational Tones.
• First Floor Reading Room – Reduced Noise (quiet talking permitted).
• First Floor Quiet Study Room – Silent.
• First Floor General & Teen Room - Normal Conversational Tones.
• Ground Floor Meeting Rooms and Lobby – Normal Conversational Tones.
3 Patron Rights and Responsibilities
• Ground Floor General – Reduced Noise (quiet talking permitted).
Free Speech and Expressive Conduct Activities
The Library supports open expression and free speech by the public, including through
spoken communication, distribution of literature, and other forms of free expression. The
Library does not regulate the content of such expressive activities. However, in order to
preserve Library facilities for their intended purpose, to allow for the orderly operation of
these facilities, and to preserve public safety, the Library regulates the time, place and
manner of such activities.
Members of the public who are interested in using Library facilities for expressive
activity shall notify the librarian in charge prior to engaging in such activity to ascertain
the availability of space and shall comply with the following guidelines.
Use of Library Facilities for Expressive Activities
• External Facilities Spaces
o For public safety purposes, expressive activities are prohibited in the
Library parking lot and driveways. The sidewalks and lawn surrounding
the Library are generally available for expressive activities, provided that
the limitations and prohibitions set forth below are followed.
• Internal Facilities Spaces
o Designated areas within the Library, including the meeting rooms, lobby
and vestibule, may be available for expressive activities. Interior spaces
are limited, but may be made available, provided that they provide
adequate area for the proposed activity and the limitations and
prohibitions set forth below are followed.
• Limitations and Prohibitions
o Use will occur only during the Library’s normal operating hours.
o Use of Library facilities shall not impede or interfere with the passage of
patrons or the normal operations of the Library.
o Users will not disrupt or interfere with any individual’s use of the Library.
o The Library may specify the time and location of such activities as
necessary to ensure equal access to other users.
o Users will not force or coerce any individual to take materials or sign
petitions.
o The Library reserves the right to close any facility space due to safety
considerations.
o The Library reserves the right to give scheduling priority to the use of any
facility space for Library-sponsored activities.
o Users shall not engage in any political fundraising.
o Users shall not engage in any illegal activity.
4 Patron Rights and Responsibilities
Posting of Materials on Library Bulletin Boards
The Reading Public Library is committed to disseminating information that is of general
interest to the community and provides spaces for the public posting of flyers, notices,
and posters. Please refer to the Library’s “Policy on Distribution, Posting, and Collection
of Materials” for further guidance.
Enforcement of Policy
The librarian in charge is responsible for addressing disruptive behaviors. This includes
clearly, courteously, and firmly communicating policy violat ions and consequences to
patrons, and giving patrons a copy of this and any other relevant policies . At no time will
any staff member touch a patron to enforce this policy or as disciplinary action.
Additional enforcement actions include, but are not limited to:
• A verbal warning for general disruptive behaviors.
• Request to immediately leave the premises for more destructive or serious
behaviors.
• Requesting police assistance if the situation escalates. The librarian in charge
will warn individuals that the police have been called.
• A written warning from the Director or their designee that is handed or mailed to
the individual.
• Issuance of a “No Trespass” order that prohibits access to library property for up
to one (1) year depending on the severity of the violation. This order is filed with
and enforced by the Reading Police. Permanent “No Trespass” orders may be
issued in consultation with Public Safety and the Board of Library Trustees.
• Communications with parents/guardians when a minor receives a written warning
or “No Trespass” order. “No Trespass” orders for minors may permit use of the
library for school purposes when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The Reading Public Library is for everyone’s enjoyment. We appreciate your
cooperation with all Library policies in order to ensure the Library is a pleasant place to
visit and so all who use these public facilities receive respectful treatment.
Adopted: September 11, 2017
Amended: September 10, 2018
Amended: January 10, 2022
Amended: February 13, 2023
Amended: April 14, 2025
RESPONSIBILITIES REGARDING MINORS
POLICY
Purpose
The Reading Public Library strives to create a warm, inviting, and fun environment for
children aged birth through 17. The Library offers programs and services that
encourage frequent visits by minors, families, and caregivers to help develop a love of
books, reading, and learning. This policy acknowledges that in addition to the Patron
Rights and Responsibilities Policy, there are additional considerations for persons under
the age of 18 (minors).
Parents and caregivers are solely responsible for the behavior and safety of minors
visiting the Library and for determining age-appropriate materials.
Unattended Children
Staff do not provide childcare and are not responsible for supervising unattended
children.
1. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied and adequately supervised
by a parent or caregiver at least 14 years of age.
2. For adequate supervision, the parent or caregiver must be on the same floor as
their children under 10 years of age.
General
1. In the event of an emergency or unexpected closing, minors ages 10 and above
should have a means of contacting a parent or caregiver.
2. All minors must be picked up or have transportation arranged before the Library
closes. Library staff have no obligation to remain with minors after hours if
transportation has not arrived at the time of Library closing.
3. Library staff reserves the right to contact the Reading Police Department to assist
with safety issues involving all minors when a parent or caregiver is unavailable.
4. Library staff members will not transport minors from the Library to any other
location.
Appropriate Use of Youth Spaces
The Children’s Room and any other designated children’s space are reserved for
children ages 0-12. The Teen Room and any other designated teen space are reserved
for youths ages 11 to 17. The Tween Space is reserved for children ages 9-13. Parents,
caregivers, teachers, and other adults are permitted in these spaces when
accompanying a youth or actively using or searching the collections.
This applies to programs and events for Children, Tweens,'s and Teens programs and
events, which are extensions of these youth spaces. Adults without a child, tween, or
teen will not be allowed to attend youth events without permission from the Reading
Public Library staff.
The Children’s restroom is for the exclusive use of those using the space.
Those who violate this policy risk having their Library privileges restricted or revoked.
Approved: June 2003
Amended: September 2019
Amended: March 2022
Amended: April 2024
Amended: April 2025
As of February 28 (67%)Trustee Budget Summary
SUMMARY Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance % Used
Municipal Salaries 1,754,250$ -$ 1,127,054$ -$ 627,196$ 64.25%
Municipal Expenses 143,000$ -$ 103,624$ -$ 39,376$ 72.46%
Municipal Materials 283,900$ -$ 171,774$ 40$ 112,086$ 60.52%
Fines & Fees 13,606$ 8,069$ 9,991$ -$ 11,684$ N/A
State Aid 75,579$ 33,039$ 32,703$ -$ 75,915$ N/A
Gifts 188,572$ 46,433$ 37,237$ -$ 197,767$ N/A
Trusts (Expendable Funds) 110,253$ 6,857$ 554$ -$ 116,556$ N/A
TOTALS $2,569,159 $94,397 $1,482,936 $40 $1,180,581
Municipal Appropriation Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance % Used
Salaries - Library Administration 468,400$ 302,234$ -$ 166,166$ 64.52%
Salaries - Leave Buyback*-$ -$ -$ -$
Salaries - Collection Services 506,450$ 337,334$ -$ 169,116$ 66.61%
Salaries - Public Services 779,400$ 487,486$ -$ 291,914$ 62.55%
Expenses - General
Library Maint Contract Supp 23,000$ 22,241$ -$ 759$ 96.70%
Professional Development 14,000$ 9,460$ -$ 4,540$ 67.57%
Library Programs 10,500$ 1,871$ -$ 8,629$ 17.82%
Software/ Licenses 70,500$ 60,396$ -$ 10,104$ 85.67%
Library Supplies 9,000$ 4,476$ -$ 4,524$ 49.73%
Office Supplies 5,000$ 1,902$ -$ 3,098$ 38.05%
Technology 11,000$ 3,279$ -$ 7,721$ 29.81%
Materials 283,900$ 171,774$ 40$ 112,086$ 60.52%
Books 60,825$ -$
Audio 2,620$ -$
Video 2,160$ -$
Periodicals 1,019$ 40$
Electronic Resources 52,033$ -$
Other Materials 8,732$ -$
Overdrive (eBooks / eAudiobooks)44,384$ -$
TOTALS 2,181,150$ -$ 1,402,451$ 40$ 778,659$ 64.30%
Fines and Fees Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance
Revenue (and Carryover)13,606$ 8,069$ -$ -$ $21,675
Materials 25$ -$ ($25)
Supplies 9,966$ -$ ($9,966)
TOTALS 13,606$ 8,069$ 9,991$ -$ $11,684
State Aid Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance
Revenue (and Carryover)75,579$ 32,544$ -$ -$ 108,123$
Expenses -$
Office Supplies -$ -$ -$
Professional Development -$ -$ -$
Materials 4,982$ -$ (4,982)$
Library Other 495$ 22,845$ -$ (22,350)$
Library Equipment 4,876$ -$ (4,876)$
TOTALS 75,579$ 33,039$ 32,703$ -$ 75,915$
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As of February 28 (67%)Trustee Budget Summary
Gifts & Donations Orginal $$ Adj/Income Expended Encumbered Balance
Revenue (and Carryover)46,109$ 16,609$ 12,182$ -$ 50,536$
Professional Development -$ 1,864$ -$ (1,864)$
Recreational -$ 1,643$ -$ (1,643)$
Programs & Services Adults 28,522$ -$ -$ -$ 28,522$
Programs & Services Teens 24,265$ -$ -$ -$ 24,265$
Programs & Services OESJ 11$ 823$ 80$ -$ 754$
Programs & Services Childrens 26,629$ -$ 561$ -$ 26,069$
Programs & Services- Local History 500$ -$ -$ -$ 500$
Studio 30,298$ -$ -$ -$ 30,298$
RPL Foundation -$ 28,891$ 18,891$ -$ 10,000$
Garden -$ -$ 2,016$ -$ (2,016)$
Other Gifts (Combined)4,685$ -$ -$ -$ 4,685$
Materials 27,552$ 110$ -$ -$ 27,662$
TOTALS 188,572$ 46,433$ 37,237$ -$ 197,767$
Trusts Original $$Avail/Income Expended Encumbered Balance
Appleton / Mansfield 7,374$ 784$ -$ -$ 8,157$
Edward Appleton 44,919$ 2,127$ 554$ -$ 46,492$
R/M Babcock 3,126$ 287$ -$ -$ 3,413$
Stephen Foster 9,613$ 922$ -$ -$ 10,535$
Charles Torrey 1,235$ 95$ -$ -$ 1,330$
Donald Tuttle 1,059$ 67$ -$ -$ 1,126$
Elaine & George Long 34,953$ 1,785$ -$ -$ 36,738$
Barbara Hewitt 6,428$ 656$ -$ -$ 7,084$
James Rawstron 1,545$ 135$ -$ -$ 1,680$
TOTALS 110,253$ 6,857$ 554$ -$ 116,556$
Name Non-Expend Purpose
11,000$
5,000$
3,598$ "Books on literary subjects and self-government" (BOOKS)
12,000$ "Books … to be inscribed 'Stephen Foster Fund'" (BOOKS)
1,000$ "Books on non-fictional subjects" (NONFICTION BOOKS)
500$ "Books"
5,000$ "Books or Equipment"
8,952$ "Books"
1,613$ "Books on tape& furniture to house books on tape" (AUDIOBOOKS)
TOTALS 48,663$
Charles Torrey
Donald Tuttle
Elane & George Long
Barbara Hewitt
James Rawstron
Stephen Foster
Appleton / Mansfield "…for the purchase of books other than those listed as fiction" (NONFICTION BOOKS)
Edward Appleton "Purchase of books, paintings, engravings, works of art or other suitable useful
furnishings for said library. R/M Babcock
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March 10, 2025 Board of Library Trustees Meeting
IX. FINANCIAL REPORT
a) FY25 Update: The FY25 budget presentation to the Finance Committee (FINCOM) will
be on Wednesday, March 12. A Board of Library Trustees meeting has been posted in
case a quorum is in attendance. The meeting can be joined in person or via Zoom.
b) February Gifts:
DONOR AMOUNT PURPOSE
Word of Mouth Book Club $110 In Memory of Lorna Knapp
Harold & Mary Jo Nordstrom $100 In Memory of William Jennings
Raymond & Debra Johnson $50 In Memory of Georgette Simard
Various Cash Donations $11 General
Total $271
X. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
a) With Gratitude: On behalf of the entire RPL staff, we thank Trustee Cherrie Dubois for
her dedication and over 30 years of service as a leader for the Reading Public Library.
Throughout her remarkable tenure, she has consistently recognized the value of our
outstanding staff while always keeping the needs of the community at the forefront of
every decision. Her thoughtful leadership approach has created a workplace where staff
members feel valued and supported, enabling them to provide exceptional service to
our patrons. Cherrie's unwavering commitment has guided RPL through major changes
and transitions, including the two significant renovations that transformed our library to
better serve the Reading Community. We are profoundly grateful for her three decades
of dedicated leadership and the lasting impact she has made on both the staff and the
community we serve.
b) February Snapshot
*RPL was closed on Sunday, February 9 due to the weather.
Usage February 2025 January 2025 February 2024
Circulation 25,860 25,448 29,507
Locker Use 40 69 N/A
Meeting Rooms Rentals 38 33 24
Museum Passes 168 184 174
New Library Cards 102 101 111
Overdrive 5,307 6,185 5,284
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Programs 56 58 73
Reference Questions 1,915 1,975 1,869
Visitors 13,462 15,281 14,917**
Volunteer Hours 13 13.5 10
b) Services, Programs, and Collections
i) Programs, Collections, and Services
(1) Have you discovered RPL’s “Shelf Joy?” Part whimsy, part scavenger hunt,
visitors can experience the joy of discovery as they happen upon vignettes set up
throughout the building. Maps and more information is available at the Borrower
Services Desk.
(2) The Office of Equity and PAIR hosted the First Annual Black History Trivia
Evening. There was excellent attendance and lots of fun.
(3) The Concert Series continues to be popular and LiveWires Folk Dancing
Program – held at the UU – had 33 attendees.
(4) The Lunar New Year program had 131 attendees. The event brought in some
new patrons and included regulars from the Mandarin Storytime and the weekly
Jumping Beans program.
(5) RPL is wrapping up an Accessibility Survey to get data related to program
accessibility.
ii) Rooted in Reading Update
(1) Spring programming is underway
(2) Staff are working on a large community event for Arbor Day. This event is a
collaboration with DPW, the Town Forest Committee, the Conservation
Commission, and the Reading Scouts.
(3) Please check out the new location for the Seed Library on the main floor.
c) Horizons
i) We are nearing a decision for new shelving to hold our growing Library of Things
Collection. This purchase is part of the FY25 supplemental spending plan.
ii) The Children’s Room staff will host a professional development opportunity for the
school librarians, NOBLE librarians, and all of us on March 27 . The topic will be new
developments in the science of reading and decodables collections
iii) Trustee Dates:
(1) March 12 – FINCOM Budget Review
(2) April 8 – Local Elections
(3) April 14 -, General Meeting
(4) April 28, May 1, 5, and 8, 2025, Annual Town Meeting
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d) Personnel
March Anniversaries
• Dina Snook (2 years)
Substitutes
• In February, we said farewell to long-time resident, librarian, and RPL substitute
Susanne Sullivan. Susanne is has been a wonderful asset to our staff and we will
miss her! She looks forward to continuing to visit RPL as a patron.
• In March, RPL hired two new generalist Substitute Librarians. Nancy Snow and
Ashley Cristiano are being trained to cover the Reference and Children’s
Service desks. These hires are part of our ongoing effort to cross-train staff in
various divisions.
New Volunteers
• Busy Bees (RIR Grant)
• Seed Library (RIR Grant)
• Craft Swap assistance (RIR Grant)
• Tech Inventory
• Jumping Beans assistance
• Additional STEM programming
e) Professional Development (selected)
• "In the Mood to Swoon" Upcoming Romance Titles
• Asian American is Not a Color: Conversations on Race...
• Assessing AI's Role in Marketing for 2025
• Building Community Connections by Hiring for Cultural Knowledge
• Canva for Libraries: Page Layout, Social Media, and More Design Tools
• Educator's Group Meeting at NAGLY
• Empowering Teens: Enhancing Information Literacy Through Games and Interactive
Programming
• From Insight to Action: Using Public Library Data for Decision-Making, Strategic Planning,
and Advocacy
• How to Get the Most Out of Your Next Library Conference
• Library GreenScapes: Cultivating Climate Resilience, Community, and Learning Outdoors
• Navigating Big Emotions & Challenging Behaviors in Young Children
• Strategic Financial Planning: Turning Your Goals and Budget into an Action Plan
• What is the Legal Landscape of Librarianship Forum
Respectfully submitted,
Amy Lannon, Director (she/her)
March 6, 2025
Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
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2016-09-22 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Board of Library Trustees
Date: 2025-02-10 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Public Library Location: Community Room
Address: 64 Middlesex Avenue Session: Open Session
Purpose: General Meeting Version: Final
Attendees: Members - Present:
Cappy Popp, Chair; Patrick Egan, Vice-Chair; Andrew Grimes, Secretary;
Cherrie Dubois; Andrew Gregory; Monette Verrier
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Amy Lannon, Director; Michelle Filleul, Assistant Director;
Meaghan Clemente, Administrative Assistant; Megan Wu, Reading Municipal
Light Department Director of Integrated Resources
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Andrew Grimes, Secretary
Topics of Discussion:
I. Call to Order 7:01 p.m.
II. Public Comment
No public comments were made in person or remotely.
III. RMLD Update on EV Charger Use
Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) Director of Integrated Resources Megan
Wu, a Reading resident and library patron, presented an update on the Library's electric
vehicle charging stations.
RMLD is a municipal electric utility serving over 70,000 residents in Reading, North
Reading, Wilmington, and Lynnfield Center with reliable, low-cost, and increasingly non-
carbon energy. RMLD is governed by a Board of Commissioners and a Citizens
Advisory Board with membership across all towns. Electric vehicle (EV) chargers are a
key customer electrification program. RMLD is also developing in-territory non-carbon
generation initiatives with solar, storage, and other innovative technologies.
Two different EV chargers are available at the Library. RMLD installed one 2-port Level
2 ChargePoint EV charging station in June 2022. It takes several hours to charge the
Level 2 charger fully. In December 2023, RMLD installed a Direct Current Fast Charging
(DCFC) EV Connect charging station, allowing compatible vehicles to quickly charge for
many miles in under an hour. The DCFC is the first publicly available charger in RMLD
territory and is quite popular.
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Both chargers were installed with Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection (MA DEP) state grant funding support. The grant requires one accessible
parking space and one parking space marked for electric vehicles, and the chargers
must be operational for three consecutive years. The DCFC station needs to provide
accessibility to both CHAdeMo and CCS ports to allow for compatibility with different
types of electric vehicles. Unfortunately, the CHAdeMo port is incompatible with most
new EV models but is required for equity purposes under the rant.
Ms Wu presented data on charging sessions and charging times for both EV chargers at
the Library. There has been significant growth in charging sessions each year. Most
charging sessions last less than two hours, similar to Library patron visits. In 2024, the
DCFC charger was out of order for five to six months. This was clearly indicated on the
mobile app and with signage on the charger. RMLD worked diligently with vendors to
replace and repair equipment. However, 1,359 total charging sessions took place in
2024, with over 300 charging sessions in 2025. Charging sessions during evening hours
are similar to those during the day.
The number of sessions when both ports are used simultaneously has been increasing.
It is possible to charge two vehicles with the Level 2 charger at the same time due to the
two separate ports. Typically, two parking spaces are utilized when both ports are in use.
Spaces are available on either end of the EV charging area to allow for handicap
accessibility. The area on the right is hashed out to indicate handicap accessibility
despite the lack of signage. The area on the left is too tight to be an official parking spot
but may provide some accessibility—the DCFC charger cable length and weight are also
an accessibility concern.
Five parking spaces are currently associated with the EV charging area, rather than the
four originally planned for the project. RMLD proposes that the middle Level 2 charging
space could revert to a regular parking space available to all Library users on a first-
come, first-serve basis. Markings would be removed. This change could be implemented
now or when the grant requirements are eased in June 2025. The Board will reflect on
this information and discuss further in March. Ms. Wu thanked the Board and excused
herself at 7:17 p.m.
IV. Technology Plan Update
Ms. Filleul presented an update on the Library’s technology. The Library is committed to
staying current with technology and providing resources for the Reading community to
bridge the digital divide. A detailed internal plan is updated every year to outline goals
and guide projects in accordance with the Library’s mission and strategic plan.
Ms. Filleul highlighted recent accomplishments on technology projects in 2024. The
conference and community rooms now have updated microphones, cameras, and audio-
visual upgrades, allowing seamless hybrid meetings.
The Library has transitioned its mobile application to Communico, creating a more
visually pleasing software that enables users to access holds, checkouts, meeting room
reservations, and electronic resources like Libby, Hoopla, and the New York Times. The
mobile app has 3,232 users as of the end of January. Communico's Attend module for
events and Reserve module for meeting room reservations has improved the patron and
staff experience over the past several months. The Library's new website is currently
being developed on Communico’s platform to create a cohesive and simplified user
experience. The new website will have fewer images and pages to promote information
effectively and efficiently. A draft of the new website may be available in the spring. The
Library has overcome technical issues that occurred during these transitions.
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Library staff will educate the public through the implementation of a redesigned patron
tutorial program. The Library plans to offer classes and individualized technology training
covering the basics, artificial intelligence tools, and other emerging technologies. Library
staff actively attend conferences and other professional development activities to learn
about technological advances.
Staff are also exploring the capabilities of a donated 3D printer and considering how to
provide public access to this service. The renewable, nontoxic, plant-based filament was
donated along with the printer and will be used going forward.
V. Financial Report
The Library is seven months, or 58%, through its FY25 budget ending June 30. The
Library is currently running approximately 1.4% under budget for salaries. We also
received a special $1,000 gift in recognition of Jocelyn Gould's local history research.
Smaller programs, such as one-on-one genealogy research sessions, can have a
meaningful impact on community members. The Library is grateful for all donations
received.
Ms. Lannon reviewed a mid-year professional development summary compiled by Ms.
Clemente. Staff across all departments participate in various professional organizations,
conferences, webinars, and other professional development opportunities. She has
anticipated one tuition reimbursement request in the FY25 municipal professional
development budget. In FY24, gifts, state aid, and trust income supplemented the
municipal budget. In FY24, two staff members attended the biannual Public Library
Association (PLA) conference in Columbus, Ohio. Annual spending varies due to travel
costs and unexpected yet valuable opportunities.
Ms. Lannon noted that the Friends of the Reading Public Library generously supplement
numerous Library programs outside the scope of the municipal program budget. The
Library has absorbed programming costs associated with Office of Equity and Social
Justice events such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth celebrations.
However, the Office of Equity and Social Justice will have separate expense lines in
FY26.
VI. Director’s Report
Despite a bit of snow, the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration at Reading
Memorial High School was a wonderful community event. Teamwork from the DPW,
Facilities, Food Services, and many volunteers made for a successful event. Over 60
participants attended and enjoyed Sparkly Storytime, which went safely and smoothly.
Staff have a number of Rooted in Reading programs planned for the spring. The Library
is exploring the possibility of using gifts or state aid funds for a professional monthly
service to care for the many exotic indoor plants that have been incorporated into Library
spaces. Maintaining plant health while retaining the investment in greenspaces is key.
The new Craft & Hobby database provides a curated virtual collection of self-paced,
guided video tutorials on a variety of crafts and activities ranging from knitting to yoga.
In February, Ms. Filleul will celebrate 22 years of service, and Communications
Specialist Desirée Zicko will celebrate six years of service.
VII. Discussion: Sunsetting or Extending the Ad Hoc Library Landscape Committee
The Ad Hoc Library Landscape Committee has met for approximately two years to
investigate and recommend possibilities to the Board for improvements to the Library’s
Page | 4
outdoor space. The proposed Library terrace design will be further explored in the
design bidding procurement process using the $40,000 of Library gift and state aid funds
approved by the Board in January.
However, the Committee is a public body, not a fundraising group, and would like further
guidance about the Board’s expectations for the group. The Committee hopes to meet
next week and is tentatively scheduled to meet monthly. Ms. Dubois indicated that the
group seems interested in continuing.
Ms. Lannon has met with Town procurement and engineering staff to discuss different
directions for the Library Terrace project. Although the Library project will be privately
funded and is relatively small in scope, several other major Town procurement projects
currently underway take precedence. Due to local elections and other priorities, progress
may occur in late spring or early summer.
Mr. Egan noted that the Reading Public Library Foundation has not made any final
decisions about how to approach the estimated $350,000 for the project. Targeted
fundraising ideas and other options are being explored. A new Foundation member
dedicated to helping with the Library Terrace project would be welcomed. A joint
Foundation meeting with the Committee to share ideas is also a possibility.
Ms. Lannon noted that the Committee’s focus could shift to communications, marketing,
and advertising for the project in the community. Meetings with neighbors could be held
throughout the design process. Public meetings provide an important forum for the
community, as well as documentation and transparency for the project as it progresses.
VIII. Approval of January 13, 2025, Meeting Minutes
Motion: To approve the minutes of the January 13, 2025, Trustee Meeting as written.
(Egan / Dubois)
Vote: Approved 6-0
IX. Future Agenda Items
In March, Public Services Division Head Andrea Fiorillo will present an update on spring
programming, and the Board will review the Policy Regarding Minors as needed. The
Board will further discuss the Reading Municipal Light Department electric vehicle
charging stations and potentially the status of the Ad Hoc Library Landscape Committee.
Director of Equity and Social Justice Albert Pless will present an update in April.
Trustees elected on the April 8th Town election will also be introduced.
Adjournment 7:46 p.m.
Motion: To Adjourn (Grimes / Verrier)
Vote: Approved 6-0
Respectfully Submitted,
Andrew Grimes, Secretary
RMLD Public EV Charging Stations Report
Reading Library Trustees Meeting
February 10, 2025
Introduction of RMLD
2
Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD)
A municipal electric utility serving over 70,000 residents in Reading, North
Reading, Wilmington and Lynnfield Center
RMLD’s Mission
Serving our customers with reliable, low-cost and increasingly non-carbon
energy
RMLD’s Governance Structure
5-person Board of Commissioners and 5-person Citizens Advisory Board
RMLD’s Non-Carbon Strategies
Customer Electrification Programs (energy efficiency, heat pump, EV
charger, load management, solar, Shred-the-Peak etc.)
In-Territory Non-Carbon Generation (solar, storage, innovative
technologies)
Public EV Chargers at Reading Library
3
•One 2-port Level 2 ChargePoint EV charging station was installed in June 2022
•One 2-port DCFC EV Connect charging station was installed in December 2023
DEP Grant Requirements
•one accessible space
•one space marking for EVs (but a DCFC station needs to provide accessibility to both
CHAdeMO and CCS ports)
•operational for three consecutive years
Reading Library EV Stations’ Charging Trends
4
•Significant growth in charging sessions year on year
•Most charging sessions last less than 2 hours
Reading Library EV Stations’ Charging Trends
5
•Charging sessions during evening hours are similar to
those during the day
•The number of sessions when both ports are used has
been increasing
•The CHAdeMO port is not compatible with most new
EV models but is a DEP grant requirement for equity
purposes
Proposed Parking Space Change
6
no marking
Current
Proposed
Thank You
from the RMLD Team
TECHNOLOGYPLAN 2025
The Library is committed to staying
current with technology and providing
resources for the Reading community
to bridge the digital divide.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2024
Meeting Room Audio Visual Upgrade
New Library App
New Events and Meeting Reservation Software
Library staff will stay
updated on the use of
artificial intelligence
tools and other
emerging technologies
by participating in
conferences and
engaging in
professional
development activities.
LearnCreate
Library staff will implement a
redesigned patron tutorial
program that offers classes
and individualized technology
training, covering everything
from the basics to navigating
artificial intelligence tools and
other emerging technologies.
Educate
The library received a
3D printer, and staff will
test its capabilities and
consider how to
provide public access
to this service.
Explore
FUTURE STATE OF TECHNOLOGY
The library will create a
new website using
Communcio, our
current platform for the
library app, room
reservation system, and
events calendar
software.
Thank you.