Library Trustees

Taunton Public Library Minutes for the January 17, 2024 Meeting Present: Ted Gay, William Hanna, Kevin Downing, Audrey Reese Staff: Linda Coelho, Director Friends of the Taunton Public Library President: Brian Belanger Ms. Reese called the meeting to order at 1:10 p.m. The December 2023 minutes were presented. Mr. Gay made a motion to accept. Dr. Hanna seconded the motion and the Board approved. The December 2023 financial report was reviewed. Mr. Gay made a motion to accept. Dr. Hanna seconded the motion and the Board approved. The December 2023 circulation report was reviewed. Dr. Hanna made a motion to accept. Mr. Gay seconded the motion and the Board approved. New Business:  The first of two installments of our annual state-aid was received in the amount of $78,674.81.  The library is planning a casual social event/party geared towards pre-teens/teens. The mission is to reach the patron demographic group of ages 12-15. Hopefully, with this event, we can solicit feedback from younger patrons regarding the kinds of programs and events they would like to see hosted at the library. Using this information we can develop programming to target young patrons who have or about to age out of the Youth Services department. There will be several activities at this event including a Playstation 5 console which prompted a release form for parents to give signed consent for their minor to play. The consent form uses the ratings of the Entertainment Software Ratings Board. (E for everyone, E10+ for everyone 10+ and T for teen) Under no circumstances will minors be allowed to or have access to global online play. Dr. Hanna made a motion to accept the gaming release form. Mr. Gay seconded the motion, and the Board approved. Old Business:  Repointing of the front limestone of the building has not been completed yet. The weather has held up the work as it has to be above freezing temperature for them to do  the work. Crowley Engineering has been at the library doing a study on what would be needed to replace the existing heating system. With the new roof completed we can begin addressing carpeting the stacks area. With the estimates being over 50,000 it is going out to bid, and we’re waiting to hear back from the director of procurement. The building department is here working on the front stairs which is the lovely old part of the building. It has very high ceilings which adds to the difficulty of the work. Friends’ Report: The Notable Blends Christmas concert performance was well attended with over 65 people, and the Friends’ are looking forward to sponsoring a few events coming in March and April. Correspondence: Facebook correspondence was received on 1/11/24 complimenting the Taunton Public Library and especially the Youth Services department for their exception service and programming. With no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 1:40 p.m. The next scheduled meeting will be held Wednesday, February 21, 2024 Respectfully submitted by Linda Coelho Documents list December 2023 minutes December 2023 Financial Report December 2023 Circulation Report Gaming Release Form