HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-04-14 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: 2025-04-14 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
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86117297460
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. New Trustee Introductions
IV. Ad Hoc Commemoration Establishment (“ACE”) Committee
Update
V. Office of Equity Update
VI. RPL Citizen Kids Collection Request for Reading Food Pantry
VII. Discussion and Vote: Updates to the Patron Rights and
Responsibilities Policy
VIII. Discussion and Vote: Updates to the Policy Regarding Minors
IX. Financial Report
X. Director's Report
XI. Approval March 10, 2025, Meeting Minutes
XII. Future Agenda Items
a. May
b. 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 unattended children under the age of 10 (see the library’s
“Responsibilities 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 violations 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, and Teens, 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 March 31 (75%)Trustee Budget Summary
SUMMARY Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance % Used
Municipal Salaries 1,754,250$ -$ 1,262,732$ -$ 491,518$ 71.98%
Municipal Expenses 143,000$ -$ 115,340$ -$ 27,660$ 80.66%
Municipal Materials 283,900$ -$ 223,955$ -$ 59,945$ 78.89%
Fines & Fees 13,606$ 8,790$ 11,303$ -$ 11,093$ N/A
State Aid 75,579$ 65,859$ 22,924$ -$ 118,514$ N/A
Gifts 188,572$ 47,723$ 40,437$ -$ 195,858$ N/A
Trusts (Expendable Funds) 110,253$ 10,436$ 554$ -$ 120,135$ N/A
TOTALS $2,569,159 $132,808 $1,677,244 $0 $1,024,724
Municipal Appropriation Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance % Used
Salaries - Library Administration 468,400$ 338,176$ -$ 130,224$ 72.20%
Salaries - Leave Buyback*-$ -$ -$ -$
Salaries - Collection Services 506,450$ 377,828$ -$ 128,622$ 74.60%
Salaries - Public Services 779,400$ 546,729$ -$ 232,671$ 70.15%
Expenses - General
Library Maint Contract Supp 23,000$ 22,446$ -$ 554$ 97.59%
Professional Development 14,000$ 9,989$ -$ 4,011$ 71.35%
Library Programs 10,500$ 2,093$ -$ 8,407$ 19.93%
Software/ Licenses 70,500$ 71,001$ -$ (501)$ 100.71%
Library Supplies 9,000$ 4,546$ -$ 4,454$ 50.51%
Office Supplies 5,000$ 1,987$ -$ 3,013$ 39.74%
Technology 11,000$ 3,279$ -$ 7,721$ 29.81%
Materials 283,900$ 223,955$ -$ 59,945$ 78.89%
Books 75,745$ -$
Audio 4,165$ -$
Video 2,514$ -$
Periodicals 26,072$ -$
Electronic Resources 59,502$ -$
Other Materials 8,867$ -$
Overdrive (eBooks / eAudiobooks)47,090$ -$
TOTALS 2,181,150$ -$ 1,602,026$ -$ 579,124$ 73.45%
Fines and Fees Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance
Revenue (and Carryover)13,606$ 8,790$ -$ -$ $22,396
Materials 25$ -$ ($25)
Supplies 11,278$ -$ ($11,278)
TOTALS 13,606$ 8,790$ 11,303$ -$ $11,093
State Aid Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance
Revenue (and Carryover)75,579$ 65,364$ -$ -$ 140,943$
Expenses -$
Office Supplies -$ -$ -$
Professional Development -$ -$ -$
Materials 5,102$ -$ (5,102)$
Library Other 495$ 12,946$ -$ (12,451)$
Library Equipment 4,876$ -$ (4,876)$
TOTALS 75,579$ 65,859$ 22,924$ -$ 118,514$
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As of March 31 (75%)Trustee Budget Summary
Gifts & Donations Orginal $$ Adj/Income Expended Encumbered Balance
Revenue (and Carryover)46,109$ 16,757$ 12,182$ -$ 50,684$
Professional Development -$ 2,001$ -$ (2,001)$
Recreational -$ 2,107$ -$ (2,107)$
Programs & Services Adults 28,522$ -$ -$ -$ 28,522$
Programs & Services Teens 24,265$ -$ -$ -$ 24,265$
Programs & Services OESJ 11$ 1,965$ 80$ -$ 1,896$
Programs & Services Childrens 26,629$ -$ 760$ -$ 25,870$
Programs & Services- Local History 500$ -$ -$ -$ 500$
Studio 30,298$ -$ 1,883$ -$ 28,415$
RPL Foundation -$ 28,891$ 18,891$ -$ 10,000$
Garden -$ -$ 2,533$ -$ (2,533)$
Other Gifts (Combined)4,685$ -$ -$ -$ 4,685$
Materials 27,552$ 110$ -$ -$ 27,662$
TOTALS 188,572$ 47,723$ 40,437$ -$ 195,858$
Trusts Original $$Avail/Income Expended Encumbered Balance
Appleton / Mansfield 7,374$ 1,198$ -$ -$ 8,572$
Edward Appleton 44,919$ 3,244$ 554$ -$ 47,609$
R/M Babcock 3,126$ 439$ -$ -$ 3,565$
Stephen Foster 9,613$ 1,410$ -$ -$ 11,023$
Charles Torrey 1,235$ 146$ -$ -$ 1,381$
Donald Tuttle 1,059$ 102$ -$ -$ 1,161$
Elaine & George Long 34,953$ 2,689$ -$ -$ 37,641$
Barbara Hewitt 6,428$ 1,003$ -$ -$ 7,431$
James Rawstron 1,545$ 206$ -$ -$ 1,751$
TOTALS 110,253$ 10,436$ 554$ -$ 120,135$
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$
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
Charles Torrey
Donald Tuttle
Elane & George Long
Barbara Hewitt
James Rawstron
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April 14, 2025 Board of Library Trustees Meeting
X. FINANCIAL REPORT
a) FY26 Budget and Beyond
The FY26 Budget presentation to FINCOM on March 12, 2025, went smoothly. Town
meeting members expect to discuss and vote on this budget during night two (May 1,
2025) of the Annual Town Meeting. FINCOM has approved the use of $4M for this
budget.
Related to overall town spending, there will likely be a Special Town Election on May
13, 2025, to approve debt exclusions for the new Killam School and a new community
Center for Active Living that will replace the Pleasant Street Center. The timing of these
projects is important as the town will likely also face a vote for an override for the
operational budget in the next few years, thus reducing the need for the annual use of
free cash. In the event of a failed override, budget funding may be level-funded or even
cut.
b) March Gifts
DONOR AMOUNT PURPOSE
Board of Library Trustees $125 In Honor of Cherrie Dubois’ service as a
Trustee
Various Cash Donations $25 In Honor of Suzy Axelson’s retirement
Total $150
c) Grants
SPONSOR AMOUNT PURPOSE
Reading Culture Council $1142.54 MLK Day Celebration (OESJ)
Total $1142.54
X. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
a) Stoneham Considers Complete Library Funding Cut
The Stoneham Finance and Advisory Board meeting on April 3rd included a proposal to
eliminate all funding for the Stoneham Public Library in the upcoming budget year,
which begins July 1, 2025. This means residents of Stoneham would not have a
certified library and would likely lose access to all NOBLE services and be denied
borrowing privileges at other libraries, including the Reading Public Library. NOBLE is a
member-driven organization that hosts the Integrated Library System (ILS) Evergreen
that manages the catalog and all patron records. NOBLE members also receive access
to online content paid through NOBLE membership. It’s unclear at this moment whether
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a complete closure of the Stoneham Public Library would revoke/suspend all Stoneham
patron accounts, forcing residents to rely solely on the eCards issued by the Boston
Public Library.
Reading Public Library has a policy of not lending to residents of communities with
decertified certified libraries, which is permitted by Massachusetts law and
Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners regulations. Other nearby libraries
have policies that limit access to “services” as well, although it is unclear how “services”
are defined or how enforcement would work.
Below is the text of the current policy for the Board’s review.
POLICY ON LENDING TO RESIDENTS OF MUNICIPALITIES WITH DECERTIFIED
LIBRARIES
In order for a public library to be certified in Massachusetts it must meet certain
minimum standards of funding and service mandated by the Massachusetts Board o f
Library Commissioners. A public library that does not meet the minimum standards is
"decertified" by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and is not eligible to
receive state aid funding, apply for or receive LSTA grant funds, or enter into any
contracts with the region to provide supplemental services. Massachusetts General
Laws (605 CMR 4.01) state that certified public libraries are not required to loan
materials to residents of municipalities with decertified libraries. This policy aims to
address the issue of the fair and appropriate use of Reading tax dollars spent on public
library service by limiting the reliance of a municipality with a decertified library on the
Reading Public Library and its resources.
The Reading Public Library upholds the importance of maintaining at least the minimum
standards of public library service required for public library certification by the
Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and therefore will not loan materials to
residents of municipalities with decertified libraries. Public libraries that receive a waiver
from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners are considered certified.
Residents of municipalities in which the library has received a waiver will be permitted to
borrow materials. As stated in the Massachusetts General Laws (605 CMR 4.01), "all
residents of the Commonwealth shall have access to reading and reference rooms
under the same conditions as residents of the community." The Reading Public Library
welcomes residents of all municipalities. However, residents of municipalities with
decertified libraries are only able to use library resources within the bounds of the library
building.
b) Funding Cuts to the Institute of Museum and Library Services
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As you know, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funding has been
cut, and all staff have been placed on administrative leave per a recent executive order.
While this doesn't immediately affect our daily operations, it will eventually impact
federal grants and services overseen by the Massachusetts Board of Library
Commissioners (MBLC).You can see the full potential impact on the MBLC website,
including information on locally administered LSTA grants from the IMLS such as our
current Dig-In Grant “Rooted in Reading.” Below is a list of LSTA grants RPL has
received over the last twenty years:
$20,000 2005 Foreign Languages Grant
$5,000 2006 Boomers and Beyond Grant: Livewires Program
$20,000 2007 Teen Services Grant
$10,000 2010 Massachusetts Database LINKS Grant
$7,500 2011 How Green is My Library Grant
$7,500 2013 Science is Everywhere Grant
$8,000 2014 Customer Service Grant
$20,000 2019 Town-wide Preservation Assessment Grant (with the Reading Town
Clerk and Reading Antiquarian Society/Parker Tavern)
$10,000 2021 Civic Hub Grant: Reclaiming Your Story
$20,000 2024 Dig In Grant: Rooted in Reading
$128,000 TOTAL
RESPONSE TO PUBLIC INQUIRIES REGARDING IMLS
FACTS:
• Executive Order 14238, issued on March 14, 2025, pertains to the IMLS and six
other federal agencies. It requires “the non-statutory components and functions
be eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law.” Also, these
“entities shall reduce the performance of their statutory functions and associated
personnel to the minimum presence and function required by law.”
• IMLS is the single largest source of federal funding for libraries
• The impacts of these cuts for the current fiscal year are unclear
• IMLS's entire program of service costs approximately 87 cents per person and
represents less than 0.0046% of the federal budget.
To learn more about this issue, you can visit the Massachusetts Board of Library
Commissioners website for information about potential impacts to Massachusetts
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libraries. The site also provides resources on how Massachusetts residents can
participate in the public discourse on this issue.
TO SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE OR GET INVOLVED
• Reach out to your federal legislators by phone or email. Senator Markey serves
on the Subcommittee on Education and the American Family. You can identify all
your representatives at the Congress.gov website .
• Contact your state legislators regarding the Commonwealth's support for public
libraries.
• Connect with local elected leaders who oversee the annual Town of Reading
budget process to discuss local funding for the library. These include: Board of
Library Trustees (rpltrustee@noblenet.org), Finance Committee, your Town
Meeting members.
We appreciate your interest in this important issue. As always, the Reading Public
Library is here to serve as a center of learning, information access, and community
engagement for all citizens.
c) March Snapshot
Physical Circulation Overdrive Circulation
Usage March 2025 February 2025 March 2024
Circulation 30,265 25,860 30,498
Locker Use 108 40 N/A*
Meeting Rooms Rentals 53 38 21
Museum Passes 199 168 168
New Library Cards 119 102 134
Overdrive 5,850 5,307 5,250
Programs 64 56 94
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Reference Questions 1,926 1,915 1,915
Visitors 15,526 13,462 15,798
Volunteer Hours 51.25 13 14.5
b) Services, Programs, and Collections
i) We are putting on the finishing touches for the redesigned website. We hope to
launch this sometime in May. We welcome "beta" testers. Please contact Amy
Lannon for access to the test platform. The website uses a minimalist approach and
aligns with the new RPL App, providing more continuity for users. This "clean closet"
approach declutters the content, and we fully expect to add in or adjust content in
response to feedback. The style loosely parallels the Town of Reading website to
show community cohesiveness.
ii) The next round of 6th Grade Tours, this time from Coolidge Middle School, will be on
April 29 and April 30.
iii) The Community Craft Swap held on March 15 was a success. Reading residents
demonstrated remarkable generosity by donating interesting new and gently used
items across various categories. The event attracted 97 participants who each found
something valuable to take home. Four teenage volunteers assisted with managing
attendance, handling day-of donations, organizing items, and other tasks. This event
represented a significant collaborative effort, benefiting from excellent public
relations and staff support across several divisions.
iv) We hosted a successful program with local young adult author Tara Sullivan on
March 21, discussing her latest book. Twelve teens attended and helped facilitate a
panel discussion open to both teens and adults. The author was a pleasure to work
with. This event was particularly noteworthy due to our partnership with the Reading
Memorial High School Book Club. Students read the book and developed questions
for the event. Four book club members participated, accompanied by their advisor
from the high school. Three students served as panelists during the presentation.
Additionally, our community partner Whitelam Books attended to offer books for
sale.
v) Plant Lab kids have been busy. During March, they helped add soil to the new
garden beds and plant food for our new tortoise, Shelvis. They also prepared spider
plant cuttings for the upcoming Plant Swap.
vi) We have a new teen volunteer helping with the seed library. We are pleased to
report that the seed library is receiving significantly more use in its new location.
vii) Local History Librarian Jocelyn Gould hosted a group of Simmons students who will
work on an archives project for their class. The students were enthusiastic and
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asked insightful questions during their visit. The group decided to focus on class
photos from 1905-1906 and plans to create an intergenerational and creative project
with these materials.
viii)RPL hosted the well-received traveling exhibit "3-5-0 Girls" on March 28 in the
Studio. The exhibit showcased historic artifacts from American female veterans,
including photographs, uniforms, and other memorabilia that highlighted women's
military service stories. This was a perfectly timed exhibit for Women's History
Month.
ix) The Celtic music concert on March 8 was a success with forty-three attendees. Two
weeks later, a patron approached program organizer Elizabeth Weilbacher in the
stacks to share how she and her husband had lived in town for 50 years and had
enjoyed all the library has to offer. She was especially touched by letters the
performer shared between an Irish family and an immigrant starting out here, which
closely parallel her current family circumstances.
x) March featured the last of three "STEM with Calli" workshops. Teens made lava
lamps with student leader Calli. Calli was an excellent partner and appreciated
having Teen Librarian Meghan McCabe as a facilitator and mentor. Mentoring
volunteers is an excellent professional development tool and requires significant
effort. In this case, Meghan coached Calli on the design of instructional materials,
planning ahead for supplies, and brainstorming ideas on ways to engage teens. This
intensive collaboration with volunteers benefits our services, staff, and volunteers.
We hope to build on this model for future volunteer opportunities.
xi) Please visit the studio to see the newest exhibit featuring works from the Mayflower
Chapter of the Association of Traditional Hooking Artists on display through April. In
May, we will host a student art exhibit from RMHS, and June will feature works by
cartoonist Janet Gentile, who will conduct a three -part series for adults over the
summer.
c) Personnel
i) Olivia McElwain applied for and was accepted to the Library Freedom Institute.
Olivia has also accepted a leadership position as co-chair of the ALSC Membership
Committee.
ii) Meaghan Clemente has been elected as the Assistant Treasurer to the
Massachusetts Library Association.
iii) April Anniversaries
• Lisa Eng (21 years)
• Eileen Barrett – Substitute (20 years)
• Judy Terrazano (8 years)
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• Olivia McElwain (6 years)
• Lindsay Mancuso (4 years)
• Jocelyn Gould (3 years)
• Caroline Betcher - Substitute (2 years)
• Alissa Landau (2 years)
• Lucy Lee (2 years)
d) Professional Development (selected)
• AI and Libraries: Literacy, Ethics, and Responsible Use
• Breaking Barriers: The Importance of Digital Accessibility
• Budget Management Fundamentals
• Census Data 101: Resources and Services
• Communication Breakdowns: Tools for Working Through Conflict in the Workplace
• Customer Service Training for Frontline Staff
• Embracing Neurodiversity: Cultivating an Inclusive Workplace
• Improv-ing at the Library: Using Improvisational Comedy Techniques to Improve
Your Library Culture
• Law and Immigration Enforcement and Libraries: A Legal Overview & Best Practices
with ALA
• Let’s Play! Bringing Joy to the PK-3rd Grade Classroom to Increase Sense of
Belonging, Engagement, and Authentic Learning
• Mental Illness Short Course: High Risk and Low Risk Situations
• Navigating Public Records and Open Meeting Laws
• Supporting Language Access for Multilingual Families - What Educators Need to
Know
• Sustainably Grow Your Summer Library Program
• Talking Teen Services: Empowering Teens Through Meaningful Service
• Talking Teen Services: Working with Teen Volunteers
e) Trustee Dates
• April 28, May 1 (BUDGET), and May 05, 2025: Annual Town Meeting
• May 12, 2025: General Business Meeting
• June 9, 2025: General Business Meeting
Respectfully submitted,
Amy Lannon, Director (she/her)
April 10, 2025
Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
Page | 1
2016-09-22 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 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 (remote)
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Amy Lannon, Director; Michelle Filleul, Assistant Director;
Meaghan Clemente, Administrative Assistant; Andrea Fiorillo, Head of Public
Services; Joseph McDonagh, Finance Committee Liaison to Reading Public
Library (remote)
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Andrew Grimes, Secretary
Topics of Discussion:
I. Call to Order 7:00 p.m.
II. Public Comment
The Board received an email complaint regarding the Tween Space. A parent expressed
concern after staff requested their child exit the area designated for children ages 9 to
13. The child was below this age designation. At the time of the incident, no tweens were
using the space.
III. Recognition of Trustee Retirement: Cherrie Dubois
The Board recognized Ms. Dubois' 33 years of service to the Board. Members thanked
Ms. Dubois for her vast knowledge of the Library and the Reading community, as well as
for her poignant input and invaluable guidance over the course of her extraordinary
tenure. The Board recognized that Ms. Dubois profoundly impacted the Reading Public
Library through her involvement in the Board, Ad Hoc Library Building Committee, and
collaboration with the Friends of the Reading Public Library and Reading Public Library
Foundation. Ms. Dubois also served on the building committee that transformed the
historic Highland School building into a library. Ms. Dubois will continue to serve on the
Ad Hoc Library Landscape Committee as a resident and looks forward to continuing to
visit the Library frequently.
Board members presented Ms. Dubois with a card and donated to the Library in her
honor.
Page | 2
IV. Spring Programming Update
Head of Public Services Andrea Fiorillo presented an update on the Library’s spring
programming. The Public Services team has creatively developed various unique
programming offerings to appeal to patrons of all ages.
Local author Tara Sullivan will visit in March to meet with teens in a discussion
moderated by the RMHS book group. Patrons can join live watch parties for the Friends
Speaker Series events featuring authors Jennifer Weiner and Jodi Picoult. Other virtual
events topics include self-help, women's liberation, trees, and bestselling thriller writer
Gregg Hurwitz.
Children’s room staff will host the head researcher of the Mass General Hospital Literacy
Lab for a presentation on decodable phonics learning to local and regional educators
and librarians.
RPL will host a traveling exhibit on the role of women in the military created by a World
War II veterans group called the 3-5-0 Girls. The exhibit will feature uniforms and
artifacts. Local researcher Autumn Henderickson will present an update on her project
focusing on local veterans.
Boston Globe reporter Emily Sweeney will present on Cold Crimes of New England.
Postpartum doulas will share recovery knowledge with new and expecting parents in
another program offering. Other programs include concerts for children, families, and all
ages; a hands-on building game for teens; and the usual sing-along events. Ms. Fiorillo
highlighted pictures from a recent slime workshop, part of a teen STEM series led by a
local teen volunteer.
Rooted in Reading Spring programming includes a community craft swap, a community
plant and seed swap, and a family farm day. A programming series will feature edible
plants, house plants, plant-based diets, and wildlife tracking.
RPL continues to build strong partnerships in the community. The Library recently
partnered with Northeast Autism Resource Center (ARC) to host an art showcase and
continues to offer ongoing senior tax preparation assistance in collaboration with the
Pleasant Street Center every Wednesday. The Library hopes to work with the Writer’s
Collaborative Learning Center to host a story slam event with local writers. North
Suburban Child Network regularly hosts educational music programs and new parent
resource groups at the Library. The Library recently collaborated with the Reading
Neighbors Network (RNN) to co-host a presentation on green burial options and a
Livewires folk dancing series with the Folk Arts Center of New England.
Shelf Joy displays throughout the Library emulate the whimsical passive programming of
the Children's Room through creative, playful, and sometimes interactive celebrations of
space. An Edward Gorey house is on display in the mystery section. Other Shelf Joy
stations include a build-a-poem activity, community sketchbook, and cookbook recipe
swap. A loose map is available, but patrons are encouraged to organically stumble upon
these installations. Staff plans to spread new Shelf Joy in the coming months.
V. Discussion and Vote on the RMHS Girl Rising Club’s concession sale request for
Saturday, March 22, 2025, movie screening fundraiser
The RMHS Girl Rising Club has decided not to raise funds at its movie screening event
on Saturday, March 22. They will only be showing a movie, so no Trustee permission or
further discussion is needed.
Page | 3
VI. Discussion and Vote on Parking Recommendations for RMLD regarding EV
Chargers
The Board reviewed and discussed information presented by the Reading Municipal
Light Department (RMLD) regarding parking spots associated with the electric vehicle
(EV) charging stations at the Library. RMLD proposed 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. DPW will remove signage and markings associated with this
space would. This change will be effective when the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection (MA DEP) state grant requirements ease in June 2025.
The Board noted that some patrons are confused about EV charging stations and
clarified that regular parking is allowed on the other side of the chargers closest to the
building. The Board reviewed the white hash marks indicating handicap accessibility for
Level 2 and Level 3 chargers. They noted that the painted hash marks on the far-left
side have faded, but this area is not large enough to be a viable regular parking space.
All regular parking spaces should be welcoming to patrons who do not drive electric
vehicles. The Board was unaware of the penalty for regular cars who park in spaces
designated for electric vehicles. They discussed the possibility of designating spaces as
"EV preferred" when no other spaces are available during busy times. Based on patron
feedback expressing concerns about the lack of regular parking, the Board is willing to
allow the one proposed space to become more flexible for regular parking.
Motion: To grant the Reading Municipal Light Department permission to remove EV
markings on the proposed middle Level 2 charging space, which will revert to a regular
parking space available to all Library users when grant requirements are eased in June
2025.
(Grimes / Dubois)
Vote: Approved 6-0
VII. Review Updates to the Patron Rights and Responsibilities Policy: Updating
references
The Library Director recommended updated language in this policy, which refers to the
former Safe Child Policy, to reflect the superseding Responsibilities Regarding Minors
Policy. Ms. Verrier proposed changing the phrasing of "unaccompanied" to "unattended"
children under the age of 10 to better connect both policies.
VIII. Review Updates to the Policy Regarding Minors: Adding language regarding
Tweens.
The Library Director recommended adding language around programming specifying
tweens as children ages 9-13. These language edits help staff enforce the appropriate
use of library spaces. Signage outside the Tween Space designates an independent
area for this age group.
All children under age 10 must be adequately supervised by a parent or caregiver on the
same floor, including 9-year-old tweens using the Tween Space. A responsible grownup
may be nearby in the Children's Room, allowing the child to use the space
independently. The collection in the Tween area is specially curated for children ages 9-
13, intentionally providing some overlap between the Children’s and Teen collections.
The Board discussed grade levels and ages. Maturity levels and developmental needs
are different for every child. Tweens are not required to provide age verification to use
the Tween Space. However, staff encourage age-appropriate use and respectful
behavior across all areas.
Page | 4
IX. Financial Report
Ms. Lannon will present the FY26 budget to the Finance Committee on Wednesday,
March 12. Trustees are invited to attend the FINCOM meeting, which has been posted in
case of a quorum. FY25 materials and salary budgets remain on track.
The Library received several generous memorial gifts in February. Ms. Lannon thanked
the Board for approving invoices in the current warrant.
X. Director’s Report
Despite it being a short month, February statistics remain strong. While physical
circulation is down compared to February 2024, digital borrowing through Overdrive has
increased. Ms. Lannon noted that Usage of electronic resources like Hoopla and Kanopy
also remains strong. Also, physical visits to the Library average about 14,000 per month.
The Library was closed on one Sunday in February due to inclement weather.
Approximately 300 patrons visit the Library every open Sunday.
Partners and Allies for Inclusive Reading (PAIR) led and organized the First Annual
Black History Trivia Evening. Director of Equity and Social Justice Albert Pless facilitated
this fun community-centered event in the Studio space. There was excellent attendance.
The Library is wrapping up an accessibility survey and reviewing data and feedback
related to program accessibility. Improving accessibility is a key focus of both the new
FY26-FY30 Library strategic plan and the Community DEI Assessment. Staff regularly
participate in professional development opportunities related to improving accessibility.
The Seed Library’s new location on the main floor has improved visibility and
accessibility for the collection. A volunteer is helping Children’s Librarian Megan White
restock its offerings. Library staff are also coordinating a large community Arbor Day
event in collaboration with the Department of Public Works (DPW), Town Forest
Committee, Conservation Commission, and Reading Scouts. The goal is to plant 500
small tree saplings in the Town Forest every five years to help ensure the forest’s long-
term sustainability. The saplings are sourced from the Massachusetts Department of
Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
The Library is nearing a decision for new shelving to hold the growing Library of Things
collection. New lockable shelving will expand storage and provide centralized access to
the collection. The shelves will be located near the current holds pickup area. This
purchase will be part of the FY25 supplemental spending plan.
The Board acknowledged the upcoming elections on April 8. Any new or returning
trustees must be sworn in before the Board's next meeting on April 14.
Full-time Children’s Library Associate Dina Snook celebrates her second work
anniversary in March. Substitute Librarian Susanne Sullivan has stepped down but looks
forward to continuing to visit as a Library patron. Nancy Snow and Ashley Cristiano have
been hired as generalist Substitute Librarians and will cover both the Reference and
Children’s service desks. These new hires are part of an ongoing effort to cross-train
staff in various departments.
The new Busy Bee group will begin meeting in March. Club meetings will incentivize
gardeners of any age and ability to socialize and partake in gardening activities together.
The group plans to eventually design and develop a space on the Library grounds that
can achieve official wildlife habitat certification through the inclusion of specific plantings.
Page | 5
Several teen volunteers will help keep the March 15th craft swap event organized. A local
IT professional has volunteered to help with a technology inventory project. They will
note any computer equipment that requires updating and replacing. Another volunteer is
assisting with popular Jumping Bean storytimes on Saturday mornings.
XI. Approval of February 10, 2025, Meeting Minutes
Motion: To approve the minutes of the February 10, 2025, Trustee Meeting as written.
(Dubois / Gregory)
Vote: Approved 6-0
XII. Future Agenda Items
Director of Equity and Social Justice Albert Pless will present an update in April. The
Trustees elected in the April 8th Town election will be introduced. The Board will vote on
updates to the Patron Rights and Responsibilities policy and the Policy Regarding
Minors. The Board can also discuss the status of the Ad Hoc Library Landscape
Committee.
In June, Ms. Fiorillo will present a summer programming update. The Board will vote to
elect officers, determine FY26 meeting dates, and set the 2026 holiday closing schedule.
Adjournment 7:56 p.m.
Motion: To Adjourn (Dubois / Gregory)
Vote: Approved 6-0
Respectfully Submitted,
Andrew Grimes, Secretary
THANK YOU CHERRIE!You will be missed!!!•First elected March 18, 1985 and served for 15 years until February 14, 2000•Elected again April 7, 2007 serving continuously for 18 years through March 2025.•Total of (11) 3-year terms•Chair (1988, 1995, 1996)•Vice-Chair (2016, 2017, 2018)•Secretary Ad Hoc Library Building Committee (3.5 years)•Vice-Chair Ad Hoc Library Landscape Committee (3 yrs and going….)33 years of service to BOLTLeadership positions over the years
Public ServicesUpdate
March-May 2025
Meet the Author: Tara Sullivan
Jennifer Weiner & Jodi Picoult Live Watch Parties
Science of Reading
3-5-0 Girls: Women in the Military traveling exhibit
5 Years of Reading's Boys with Autumn Henderickson
Cold Crimes of New England
Postpartum Doulas
Rockabye Beats & Alastair Moock Family Concerts
Celtic Concert & Jazz Duo Enrique & Grant
Buildwave: A Hands-On Building Game for Teens
A Wicked Good Time - Crafts & Singalong
Highlight Reel
STEM wit h Calli: Slime Seminar
Community Craft Swap
Gardening Series - Houseplants & Edible
Community Plant/Seed Swap
Family Farm Day
Busy Bee Volunteers
Food and Climate Change: Plant Based Diets
Live Wires: Wildlife Tracking with Dan Gardoqui
Rooted in Reading
P A R T N E R S
1
Writers' Collaborative Learning Center
2
4 North Suburban Family Resource Network
3
Nor t heast ARC
Pleasant Street Center
5 Reading Neighbors Network
2020
F R I E N D S S P E A K E R S E R I E SFRIENDS S P E A K E R S E R I E SFRIENDS S P E A K E R S E R I E S
Celebrated authors and compelling speakers to watch
live and on-demand, at home or at the library!
2ND F L O O R
2ND F L O O R
JOYJOYshelfshelf
S T A R T S HERE!S T A R T S HERE!
Y O U R JOYYOUR JOY
ENTR A N C E
ENTR A N C E
JURASSIC JOYJURASSIC JOY
THE ONE WITHTHE ONE WITH
THE FRIENDSTHE FRIENDS
BOOK SALEBOOK SALE
MUSHROOMMUSHROOM
MAYHEMMAYHEM
TOO COZYTOO COZY
G R O U ND FLOO
R
G R O U ND FLOO
R1ST FL O O R
1ST FL O O R X(L) GAMESX(L) GAMES
ISN’T ITISN’T IT
SPA-CIALSPA-CIAL
THE BIRDS &THE BIRDS &
THE BEESTHE BEES
GOREYGOREY
STORIESSTORIES
BUILD A POEMBUILD A POEM SELF HELPSELF HELP
BRRRR!BRRRR!
IT’S COLD IN HEREIT’S COLD IN HERE FEELIN’FEELIN’
SKETCHYSKETCHY
COMFORTCOMFORT
FOODFOOD
THANK YOU