HomeMy WebLinkAboutLibrary Trustees 02/04/2021MANSFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Trustees Webinar Meeting - February 4, 2021
Attendance: Nancy Breef-Pilz, Marianne Mackie, Jen Riordan, Jean Mallon, Leonard Epstein
and Director Catherine Coyne. Nancy convened the meeting at 4:50 p.m..
Secretary's report. The secretary's report for January was reviewed and approved with minor
corrections on a roll call vote.
Treasurer's report. The treasurer's report for January was reviewed and approved on a roll
call vote.
Librarians' reports. The librarians' reports were reviewed and highlights discussed. Catherine
reported the library's approval for a CARES Act grant of $1,700 which is anticipated to fund several
upcoming programs, notably the historically successful Books in Bloom (May) and a planned cooking
program. The director also shared the news that the MBLC has certified the Mansfield Library for state
aid, with the first deposit expected soon.
The board discussed the status of library services and prospects for improvement over time as
the virulence of Covid-19 diminishes. Catherine commented on the continuing brisk curbside service
and Nancy noted that some libraries have started opening to the public on Saturdays. The director
outlined the logistical problems in doing so, including custodian and especially ambassador services,
especially difficult as CARES funding has been depleting. It is an ongoing concern and Catherine will
continue to monitor and report.
Old Business
Staffing. Recruiting is proceeding for the Youth Services Department. Interviews have been
encouraging and one offer is outstanding with a response expected by February 8. The candidate is
presently working in an out of state public library but prefers to return to Massachusetts. She is
finalizing her Master's degree on line with one course requirement remaining. Her earlier experience
was in teaching.
The reference librarians' job descriptions may require modification to include duties on the
circulation desk as required by the difficult circumstances in which the library is now operating. A
motion was unanimously approved to appropriately modify job descriptions for Youth Services and
Reference with minor modifications as discussed.
Director's annual performance evaluation. Nancy has been in contact with Town Counsel
and was instructed the process cannot be done during executive session of the board. Rather, it needs
to be conducted in an open board meeting. Nancy plans a followup consultation with town counsel to
further clarify the requirements.
Storm procedures and policy. The board discussed the issue of early closings due to weather
events, including Catherine's inclination to follow town policy announcements, notwithstanding the
library's independence under the town charter. The board agreed that the primary issue is the safety and
well-being of the library staff, and the need for timely communication with the Director when a
decision is required. A motion was made and unanimously approved that, in the event of inclement
weather requiring a decision concerning early closing, the Director will first attempt to contact the
chairperson of the board for consultation, but if the chairperson cannot be reached, the Director will
contact any other board member for authorization to close due to weather.
New Business
Annual reorganization of the libraryboard. After discussion, it was agreed that no changes
in the board members' responsibilities was necessary.
Next meeting. March 4, 4:30 p.m. A motion to adjourn was made and unanimously approved
at 5:23 p.m,
i
onard Epstein, Sec Wary