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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-11 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 dis cussed at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting. Page | 1 2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Library Trustees Date: 2026-05-11 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 excluding 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 will 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 One tap mobile +13017158592,,86117297460# US (Washington DC) +13052241968,,86117297460# US Dial by your location +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) Meeting ID: 861 1729 7460 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keny6p5GTY 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 dis cussed 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. Discussion and Vote: History Room Use Policy IV. Financial Report V. Director's Report VI. Approval of April 13, 2026, Meeting Minutes VII. Future Agenda Items a. June i. Summer Programming Update ii. Election of Officers iii. FY27 Trustee Meeting Dates iv. CY27 Holiday Schedule b. July i. Review Tutoring Policy (as needed) ii. Review Teacher Loan Policy (as needed) iii. Print/Copy/Scan/Fax Update c. August i. Meeting Room Use Report ii. Discussion: Decertified Libraries iii. Supplemental Spending Recommendations iv. Vote on policies (as needed) History Room Use Policy HISTORY ROOM ACCESS POLICY Purpose The Reading Public Library’s History Room is available to all researchers by appointment. It is not available to the public as a meeting space. This policy outlines the requirements for using the History Room. Scope This policy covers the space and all materials housed in the Library’s History Room. This non-circulating collection includes Town Annual Reports, RMHS Yearbooks, Resident Lists, historical vital records, public documents, and other historically significant materials. Please see the Library’s Collection Development Policy for more details on the management of this collection. Material formats include but are not limited to books, pamphlets, maps, photographs, stereo cards, postcards, and microfilm. Conditions for Accessing Materials Due to the delicate and fragile nature of many materials, the History Room is always locked. Researchers may make appointments to access the space and open-shelf collections. Library employees will retrieve materials from secure storage upon request. Access to some items may be unavailable if they are deemed too delicate for physical handling. The Library will provide access to a digital copy if available. Visitors who engage in behavior that could cause damage to materials may be denied future access. To access the History Room, visitors must present a NOBLE library card or valid state or federal photo ID at the Research and Reader Services Desk. Visitors are advised to make an appointment if they require research assistance. Use Guidelines: 1. Always handle all materials with care. 2. Pens are not permitted. 3. Do not lean on, write on, fold, trace, or handle materials in any way likely to damage them. 4. Food, drink, and chewing gum are prohibited. 5. Do not adjust shades, furniture, or environmental controls. 6. Request Items from secure storage a minimum of 45 minutes before the library closes. History Room Use Policy Noise Level The History Room is a quiet workspace. Photography Flash photography is prohibited. Non-flash photography is allowed, provided the item will not be damaged during handling or photographing (See also: Copyright). Reproduction and Photocopying Visitors may request photocopies, digital images, and other reproductions of materials using the Reproduction of Material form. Library staff will fulfill requests on a case-by- case basis, depending on the item's condition. There may be related fees for copying and printing. Copyright All users must understand and comply with copyright law. Users must request permission to publish, reproduce, distribute, sell, or display materials owned by the Reading Public Library by filling out the Permission to Use Materials form. Adopted: August 9, 2021 Amended: February 14, 2022 Amended: June 10, 2024 Amended: May 11, 2026 As of April 30 (83%)Trustee Budget Summary SUMMARY Orginal $$ Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance % Used Municipal Salaries 1,810,050$ -$ 1,427,809$ -$ 382,241$ 78.88% Municipal Expenses 156,000$ -$ 135,919$ -$ 20,081$ 87.13% Municipal Materials 294,000$ -$ 241,149$ -$ 52,851$ 82.02% Fines & Fees 12,349$ 12,223$ 9,688$ 2,895$ 11,988$ N/A State Aid 105,463$ 66,204$ 19,788$ 11,195$ 140,684$ N/A Gifts 160,405$ -$ -$ -$ 160,405$ N/A Trusts (Expendable Funds) 111,514$ 12,059$ 9,174$ -$ 114,399$ N/A TOTALS $2,649,781 $90,486 $1,843,527 $14,090 $882,649 Municipal Appropriation Orginal $$ Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance % Used Salaries - Library Administration 485,300$ 383,945$ -$ 101,355$ 79.12% Salaries - Leave Buyback* -$ 23,917$ -$ (23,917)$ Salaries - Collection Services 537,350$ 397,289$ -$ 140,061$ 73.93% Salaries - Public Services 787,400$ 622,658$ -$ 164,742$ 79.08% Expenses - General Library Maint Contract Supp 24,000$ 23,122$ -$ 878$ 96.34% Professional Development 14,000$ 14,190$ -$ (190)$ 101.36% Library Programs 4,000$ 893$ -$ 3,107$ 22.33% Software/ Licenses 74,000$ 75,342$ -$ (1,342)$ 101.81% Library Supplies 9,000$ 4,327$ -$ 4,674$ 48.07% Office Supplies 5,000$ 1,931$ -$ 3,069$ 38.62% Technology 9,000$ 9,586$ -$ (586)$ 106.51% OESJ (NEW) 17,000$ 6,528$ -$ 10,472$ 38.40% Materials 294,000$ 241,149$ -$ 52,851$ 82.02% Books 89,484$ -$ Audio 3,237$ -$ Video 2,298$ -$ Periodicals 18,259$ -$ Electronic Resources 69,138$ -$ Other Materials 12,238$ -$ Overdrive (eBooks / eAudiobooks) 46,496$ -$ TOTALS 2,260,050$ -$ 1,804,877$ -$ 455,173$ 79.86% Fines and Fees Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance Revenue (and Carryover)12,349$ 12,223$ -$ -$ $24,572 Materials -$ -$ 17$ -$ ($17) Supplies -$ -$ 9,671$ 2,895$ ($12,567) TOTALS 12,349$ 12,223$ 9,688$ 2,895$ $11,988 State Aid Orginal $$Rev/Adj Expended Encumbered Balance Revenue (and Carryover)105,463$ 66,204$ -$ -$ 171,667$ Expenses -$ Office Supplies -$ -$ -$ -$ Professional Development -$ -$ 3,710$ (3,710)$ Materials -$ -$ 29$ (29)$ Library Other -$ -$ 8,175$ 790$ (8,965)$ Library Equipment -$ -$ 7,874$ 10,405$ (18,279)$ TOTALS 105,463$ 66,204$ 19,788$ 11,195$ 140,684$ Page 1 As of April 30 (83%)Trustee Budget Summary Gifts & Donations Orginal $$ Adj/Income Expended Encumbered Balance Revenue (and Carryover)23,629$ -$ 23,629$ Professional Development -$ -$ -$ Recreational -$ -$ -$ Programs & Services Adults 27,922$ -$ 27,922$ Programs & Services Teens 24,265$ -$ 24,265$ Programs & Services OESJ 1,496$ -$ 1,496$ Programs & Services Childrens 25,870$ -$ 25,870$ Programs & Services- Local History 500$ -$ 500$ Garden -$ -$ -$ Studio 28,415$ -$ 28,415$ RPL Foundation 647$ -$ 647$ Materials 27,662$ -$ 27,662$ TOTALS 160,405$ -$ -$ -$ 160,405$ Trusts Original $$Avail/Income Expended Encumbered Expendable Balance Appleton / Mansfield 9,030$ 1,531$ -$ -$ 10,562$ Edward Appleton 39,366$ 3,101$ 9,174$ -$ 33,292$ R/M Babcock 3,733$ 560$ -$ -$ 4,293$ Stephen Foster 8,464$ 1,669$ -$ -$ 10,134$ Charles Torrey 1,436$ 186$ -$ -$ 1,623$ Donald Tuttle 1,200$ 130$ -$ -$ 1,330$ Elaine & George Long 38,640$ 3,336$ -$ -$ 41,976$ Barbara Hewitt 7,815$ 1,282$ -$ -$ 9,097$ James Rawstron 1,830$ 263$ -$ -$ 2,093$ TOTALS 111,514$ 12,059$ 9,174$ -$ 114,399$ 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 Appleton / Mansfield "…for the purchase of books other than those listed as fiction" (NONFICTION BOOKS) Stephen Foster Edward Appleton "Purchase of books, paintings, engravings, works of art or other suitable useful furnishings for said library. R/M Babcock Page 2 1 | P a g e May 11, 2026 Board of Library Trustees Meeting . IV FINANCIAL REPORT a) FY27 Budget Town Meeting approved the FY27 budget on Thursday, April 30. There were no questions or discussions regarding the Library budget of $2,311,300 (L91 and L92), a 2.3% increase over FY26. Below is the “FY27 Spending Scorecard” included with the Annual Budget Process documentation. RPL makes up 1.5% of the total municipal budget ($155,488,000). 2 | P a g e b) April Gifts: DONOR AMOUNT PURPOSE Joshua Eaton PTO $100 Children’s Services Reading Garden Club $50 In Memory of Ann Morris Various Cash Donations $28 General Use Total $178.00 V. DIRECTOR’S REPORT a) April Snapshot General Circulation Overdrive Circulation Usage April 2026 March 2026 April 2025 Circulation 25,878 29,055 27,643 Locker Use 159 165 54 Meeting Rooms Rentals 21 23 33 Museum Passes 164 170 225 New Library Cards 115 96 96 Overdrive 5,584 6,017 5,471 Programs 80 79 59 Reference Questions 1.988 2,024 1,824 Visitors 14,626 16,556 14,731 Volunteer Hours 46 54.5 64.25 b) Library Card Design Contest Update The Library Card Design Contest ran throughout April and concluded with 68 entries from kids in grades K-7. Kids were asked to consider our year-long theme, “Reading is Revolutionary,” and they delivered creative drawings with entry titles to match. Nine staff members volunteered to blind-judge the first round of entries and have selected the top 10 entries for you (the Trustees!) to vote on. The final winning design will be used as our library card in September for Library Card Sign Up Month. 3 | P a g e Trustees will receive a link to a Google folder with the top 10 designs and a rubric to help you vote. Please submit your votes to Michelle Filleul by May 26. We will notify the winner on June 1 and make the formal announcement on June 12 at Summer Sizzlers. c) Services, Programs, and Collections i) On Saturday, April 25, over 130 community members planted 500 trees in the Reading Town Forest as part of the 2nd Annual "Planting for the Future" program. This collaborative effort, led by the Town Forest Committee with support from RPL, the Department of Public Works, the Reading Scouts, and other volunteers, is part of a long-range vision to continue and expand the event through the Town Forest's 100th Anniversary in 2030. ii) A program on the “Civilian Experience during the American Revolution” drew 28 attendees, including 6 teenagers earning extra credit — a welcome sign of school-community connection. iii) Home Delivery service had an outstanding month, with 30 total deliveries — a 50% increase over the same period last year — including 5 new patrons enrolled in the program. iv) Monthly technology assistance at the Peter Sanborn House drew 6 participants for a 90 - minute drop-in session, continuing to demonstrate strong community need for this outreach. v) Beginner English classes launched successfully with 12 attendees at the first session, representing several countries of origin. Early engagement has been very positive. vi) A new middle school outreach initiative — bringing library staff to Parker Middle School during lunchtime — generated 379 interactions with tweens over just three weeks. The program runs through June and is designed to build relationships with this age gro up that will carry forward into their teen years. vii) The RPL Accessibility Working Group is compiling prioritized recommendations for assistive technology items for the Library of Things. The list will be formalized at the May meeting and forwarded to the appropriate division head for purchase consideration. viii)The Jewelry & Accessory Swap drew 76 participants and staff are designing the final swap of the year – possibly a cookbook swap -for October. ix) April saw notable growth in social media reach, with Facebook views up over 140% and Instagram engagement up over 20%. d) Horizons i) MLA Conference Staff Development Day (May 19) ii) Library Terrace Opening (June 4) iii) Summer Sizzlers (June 12) iv) Green Communities Garden Party (June 18) v) Friends and Family Day (June 20) vi) Juneteenth Freedom Festival (June 20) 4 | P a g e vii) Summer Reading Program (June 22) viii)Trustee Dates: • June 8, 2026: General Business meeting • July 13, 2026: General Business meeting e) Personnel April Anniversaries • Cate Zannino (9 years) f) Professional Development (Selected) • Trauma-Informed Engagement in Librarianship • Mental Health First Aid • Community Access Monitor Training • Adult Selection Essentials • AI Hour: Creating Policies Respectfully submitted, Amy Lannon, Director (she/her) May 7, 2026 Town of Reading Meeting Minutes Page | 1 2016-09-22 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Library Trustees Date: 2026-04-13 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 (Remote); Kelli Bacon; Andrew Gregory; Monette Verrier Members - Not Present: Others Present: Amy Lannon, Director; Cheyenne Smith, Sr. Library Associate Meeting Room Coordinator; Albert Pless, Director of Equity; Taylor Gregory, ACE Chair Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Andrew Grimes, Secretary Topics of Discussion: I. Call to Order 7:00 p.m. II. Public Comment There were no in-person or online public comments. III. ACE Committee Report Taylor Gregory, Chair of the ACE Committee and Board of Library Trustee designate, provided an update on the ACE Committee reflecting on the committee's year-long efforts. They explained that the committee continues to meet with members of the public to explain what the committee does and how their work relates to them personally. Mx. Gregory shared that the Select Board approved extending the committee for another year until January 2027. The committee intends to continue rolling out programming and gathering input, with an emphasis on community involvement and on maintaining and sustaining activities that align with the committee’s mission. They continued to share that the committee has been able to connect with the public and gain their input through their community events: • Family Day • Juneteenth Celebration • Fall Street Fair • MLK Day Event Mx. Gregory noted that these events have been especially beneficial as the committee had the opportunity to hear how their mission of sharing Bill Russel’s story has personally impacted people and inspired leadership within the community. They then Page | 2 noted the success of their Game Changers series, which has seen strong turnout at their first two events. The first event focused on Mr. Russell's first book, Go Up For Glory, which 30 people attended. The second event screened the documentary My Life My Way, produced by Mr. Russell and his daughter, Karen Russell, and had 30-40 attendees. They have one more Game Changers series event in May, and then the committee will take a summer break to reconvene and decide which materials and events they would like to focus on in the fall. Mx. Gregory then discussed the committee’s upcoming ideas and plans: First, the committee is looking to establish an award in Mr. Russell’s honor that would highlight a member of the Reading community who shares Mr. Russell’s qualities of leadership, mentorship, social justice, activism, education, and community building. Additionally, the committee will be tabling at the upcoming Juneteenth event. Next, the committee is looking to establish smaller subgroups to flesh out and detail how the mission and work of the committee will continue after sunset, and the work turns over to Albert Pless. Lastly, they shared that Mr. Pless and the committee are working to connect with Mr. Russell's family, which has received an initial positive response. The family member they are communicating with would like to get involved with the Reading community but is currently busy. Ms. Verrier inquired about the May Game Changer event, and Mx. Gregory responded that it would focus on Mr. Russell's relationship with Red Auerbach, Mr. Russell's coach and former owner of the Boston Celtics. IV. Office of Equity and Social Justice (OESJ) Update Albert Pess presented the OESJ update. Mr. Pless refreshed the Board of the OESJ mission and his role in the work. OESJ is shared service that provides education, support, and resources to make the town as equitable as possible for everyone. Additionally, the work he produces is not to enforcement, but rather to raise awareness around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). OESJ also supports all town departments in their equity efforts. He expressed great appreciation for this municipality, which gives him a lot of room to work. Based on the 2023 DEI Community Assessment and a series of student listening sessions at Reading Public Schools, Mr. Pless launched listening sessions with town staff. These conversations informed an actionable plan that led to the creation of a “Lunch and Learn” series for employees. Across 12 sessions, he heard from 98 colleagues representing 14 departments. Participants reported feeling undervalued and disconnected and called for clearer support systems between staff and management. They also emphasized the important impact of local government on the community. Mr. Pless also recognized the town-wide employee equity implementation team— established following the 2023 assessment—for their key role in advancing this work. The “Lunch and Learn” sessions, selected by staff and hosted by town departments, give employees insight into colleagues’ work and strengthen connections across the organization. The first four sessions will be hosted by the Police, Community Development, Community Services, and Public Health departments. Mr. Pless presented the new OESJ Strategic Plan, developed in collaboration with a Reading resident consultant. The plan uses a Results-Based Accountability framework Page | 3 focused on flexibility and measurable progress. Six departments and divisions have volunteered to participate, and Mr. Pless continues to support them in identifying and addressing equity issues. For example, the Planning Department’s efforts to better engage renters, who have expressed feeling excluded from planning discussions. Mr. Pless also provided an update on the ADA Commission, an eight-member volunteer body for which he serves as staff liaison. He noted that the Commission offers residents an opportunity to engage in disability-related work and emphasized the importance of recognizing the broad range of disabilities. In response to a question from Ms. Lannon, Mr. Pless expressed appreciation for the Partners and Allies for Inclusive Reading (PAIR) program and shared that he is developing a new vision for its relaunch in June. Mr. Pless highlighted recent events, including the MLK Day event, Black History Trivia, and the Women and Leadership Panel in March. He also noted the upcoming fourth annual Juneteenth event and expressed interest in securing grant funding to support future programming. V. Review: History Room Use Policy Ms. Lannon presented suggested edits and changes to the Local History Room Use policy. She noted that the changes made to the relatively new policy—originally developed in 2019 to promote cultural preservation—are not substantial but are largely for grammar and clarity purposes. There was an internal library discussion about adding more policy information on collection materials for the Local History Room. Ultimately, the decision was to add this language to the Collection Development Policy revisions. Most other policy points have been left unchanged. Ms. Verrier requested clarification of the language regarding the appointment process and the use of the room. Ms. Lannon will make the changes accordingly. Lastly, Mr. Popp asked who the typical user of the Local History Room is. Ms. Lannon shared that users include local genealogists, researchers, student groups, and new/older homeowners who come to research the history of their house. There will be a vote on whether to accept the policy changes at the next BOLT Meeting on May 11. VI. Financial Report Ms. Lannon reported that the FINCOM presentation on March 4 went smoothly and was handled in one night. The budget, which relies on $6.7 million from free cash, was approved by FINCOM. There are ongoing discussions about a possible override of the FY28 budget. March was a strong month for donations and gifts. There were several gifts in memory of a longtime Reading resident, Dr. Adelard Everton. The FY 26 budget is on target, with staffing still being under budget due to staffing transitions. Lastly, Ms. Lannon expressed her appreciation for the town’s accounting department and CFO Sharon Angstrom, which has been understaffed, but has been phenomenal at working with her and Assistant Director Michelle Filleul on managing the current and future budgets. Page | 4 VII. Director’s Report Mr. Popp inquired about the locker use statistics, noting March 2025 usage was much lower than March 2026. Ms. Lannon responded that overall locker uses has become more popular in recent months. Ms. Lannon presented the March statistics, noting that the library saw 15,000 visitors and held 79 programs. These programs included several of the events Mr. Pless mentioned in his presentation, as well as the library's new weekly Mah Jongg event and Mandarin for Adults. Mr. Popp expressed his hope that the retired teacher who volunteered to lead the Mandarin for Adults class will return to teach it again. Next, Ms. Lannon presented on staff updates: The library is now fully staffed after welcoming Luna Dziewietin to the Borrower Services team. Up next will be staffing substitutes, but that will not be until later spring/early summer. Ms. Lannon also noted that several library staff celebrated work anniversaries in April, including Lisa Eng, who has worked for RPL for 22 years. On a lighter note, Ms. Lannon reported that on Thursday, April 9, a group of prankster bagpipers made their way into the lobby and played very loudly, video recording onlookers' reactions. The players ignored employee requests for them to leave. Ms. Lannon called Reading Police (RPD) for assistance in escorting the group out of the building. However, the group left before RPD arrived. VIII. Approval of March 9, 2026 Meeting Minutes Motion: To approve the minutes of the March 9, 2026, Trustee Meeting as written. (Verrier / Popp) Vote: Approved 6-0 IX. Future Agenda Items In May, there will be a discussion and vote on the Local History Room Use Policy. In June, Ms. McElwain will present on Summer Programming. Also, the Chair will coordinate the reorganization of BOLT officers as needed. The Board will also approve the FY27 Trustee meeting dates and approve the CY27 holiday closings schedule. In July, the Board will review any changes to the Tutoring Policy and Teacher Loan Policy, and Ms. Lannon will give an update on the self-service print, copy, scan, and fax services. X. Adjournment 7:52 p.m. Motion: To Adjourn (Egan / Bacon) Vote: Approved 6-0 Respectfully Submitted, Andrew Grimes, Secretary Office of Equity and Social Justice Board of Trustees April Meeting Albert Pless, Director of Equity and Social Justice April 13, 2026 Topics to Discuss Listening Sessions-Lunch and Learns responding to employee needs OESJ Strategic Planning-Summary, high-level update on Turn the Curve projects ADA work and ADA Commission (collaboration with town leadership and engaging the community, community-driven initiative) Community Events OESJ Mission The Office of Equity and Social Justice is a town-wide shared service which will provide education, support and resources aimed at making Reading an inclusive, diverse and accessible town for all. •Diversity-Embrace and celebrate all the ways we differ- that includes but is not limited to age, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, language, and any other identifiers that make one individual or group different from another. •Equity-All having the opportunity to fully participate-fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time trying to identify and eliminate barriers that have historically prevented the full participation of some individuals or groups. •Inclusion/Belonging-All feel welcomed and valued-creating environments in which any individual or group can be and feel welcomed, respected, represented, supported, and valued to fully participate. •Access-Of any and all abilities-creating spaces and practices so everyone feels included regardless of physical, intellectual, linguistic abilities. DEIA Approach in Reading An advisory and supporting role to facilitate community education and best practices across the municipality •DESJ is the point person for information and advising on best practices and resources •Not enforcing, but encouraging awareness and education around DEIA •Supporting other departments, boards, staff and leaders •Community resource to learn and engage through respectful dialogue and behavior Listening Sessions-Lunch and Learns In collaboration with the Town Manager, the Office of Equity & Social Justice began planning efforts in March of 2025. After two sessions solely for department/division heads, open meetings began in April and ended in June. After feedback was collected, data were summarized by Sophia Ortins, a consultant for the Office of Equity & Social Justice. Many of the following suggestions will be implemented in the coming months. Objectives -How can we create a sense of belonging? The main objectives of our listening session were to gather information on the Town of Reading employee environment in response to the community needs assessment conducted in Fall 2023. Our focus question was “how can we create a sense of belonging” in Reading’s municipal space specifically. We aimed to create an open environment where everyone felt comfortable sharing their thoughts and suggestions. Listening Sessions & Participants We had a diverse group of 98 participants, including members of 14 departments/divisions. 2 sessions were held with department leaders, in addition to the 12 general meetings with all interested town staff.Their varied perspectives contributed to a rich discussion and valuable feedback. Guiding Questions What has been your experience in terms of belonging at the Town of Reading? What is getting in the way for staff to feel connected? What could the Town of Reading and the Reading community do to cultivate a community of belonging? Equity & Social Justice Implementation Team Appreciation and Support Key Feedback Points: -Participants largely feel undervalued by the public and many want increased support from leadership during unfair treatment -While many staff noted that they felt supported by upper management, some felt unsupported and wished their bosses were more vocally appreciative and took their ideas seriously Suggestions Offered: -Training on public facing communication -Clearer support systems between staff and management -Communicate victory stories of how important local government is to the public -Town Manager Minute newsletter could be a great way to highlight staff and keep connection between departments Workplace Culture Key Feedback Points: -Putting extra time and resources has become the norm and expectation -Staff recognize that management is doing their best to limit excess work given to their workforce -Staff wishes that higher-ups backed protocol more often (preventing different rules for different people) -Age differences can cause workplace difficulties, can be hard to navigate and meet in the middle. Younger employees feel feel viewed as underqualified. Suggestions Offered: -Candid conversation between colleagues is key -We’re looking for more suggestions here! Interdepartmental Connection Key Feedback Points: -Participants feel disconnected from other departments and their work (noted the presence of ‘silos’) -Knowledge about other departments would lead to increased collaboration and efficiency -Many staff were unaware of how many town employees there are and are excited to begin connecting Suggestions Offered: -“Lunch & Learns” with rotating departments -Opportunities for departments to share positive ways they’ve contributed to the community. Builds a sense of purpose and collaboration with other town employees -Internal newsletters -Doing fun interdepartmental activities (April Fools Prank, holiday decorations, speed networking) OESJ Strategic Planning Completed Community Needs Assessment with Opportunities Consulting (2023) Office of Equity & Social Justice (OESJ) launched a strategic planning initiative Reading resident and consultant Ilka Walkley facilitated planning using Results-Based Accountability methodology Engaged multiple Town of Reading divisions and departments-Ongoing with 6 departments Focused conversations around four town-wide DEI goals Generated numerous potential project ideas through cross-departmental collaboration (June) Department-Specific Projects Department/ Division Lack of Affordable Housing Vulnerability in managing racist violence Limited diversity of boards Inaccessible infrastructure Limited diversity in events Inconsistent and inaccessible communications Limited diversity of workforce Community Services Inclusive recreational programming for young people with disabilities Planning Engage renters in planning consultations Health (TBD) Increase diversity of Public Health Board (TBD) Reducing social isolation through cross- generational programming DPW Accessible pavements Fire Culturally respectful care and services to Muslim community Library Accessible programming & physical spaces What is a Commission on Disability? What is an ADA Coordinator? Municipal Commissions on Disability (CODs) 1.Advise municipal governments on the disability community’s needs in their town. 2.Inform municipal officials about accessibility concerns and best practices for inclusion of people with disabilities in municipal programs, services, and facilities. What is the ADA? It is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in everyday activities ADA Coordinator (Municipality employee)** Ensures a municipality's compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and **Note: Since 1984, every city and town in Massachusetts has been required to have someone fulfill these duties.The Town of Reading defaulted to the Town Clerk The Select Board has approved the 8 members(5 voting and 3 alternates), and the first meeting will be held on April 23 rd Town of Reading | Office of Equity and Social Justice Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)- Commission on Disability (COD) Community Engagement/Events Partners for Inclusive Reading(PAIR) Build bridges to connect all voices in meaningful and civil dialogue, while also strategically amplifying voices from traditionally marginalized communities Relaunch in June 2026 Events (January 2026 to June 2026) Event Date Collaborators Attendees Martin Luther King Day January Reading Public Schools 200+ Black History Trivia February CATO 27 Women and Leadership Panel March Women’s League of Reading 40 Juneteenth Freedom Festival June 20th Town Hall & Community Partners 400+(expected) Thank you!