MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 12, 2021 LIBRARY TRUSTEE MEETING
The meeting convened at 4:06 pm via Zoom.
IN ATTENDANCE: (Roll Call Vote) Library Director Marie Letarte; and Trustees Gloria Parkinson, chairwoman; E. Russell Grady, Wendy Neil, vice chairwoman; and Karen Nugent.
- COVID 19 DISCUSSION
Ms. Parkinson said the special meeting was called because of a recent surge of Covid 19 cases in town. Since the fall, patrons have been limited to visiting the library by appointment only. Ms. Parkinson said the staff is concerned about contracting the virus from patrons.
Ms. Letarte echoed that staff is concerned. While the library is limited to 25 percent capacity, there are still patrons browsing by appointment. She said a patron at the desk told employees she had been exposed to the virus and was upset that she had to quarantine for 14 days. e. This escalated concerns of staff. .
Also, Ms. Letarte said it is difficult to maintain a six-foot distance at the back entrance when letting patrons into the building, which is now the main entrance as it is ADA accessible.
Ms. Letarte said services such as printing, faxing, and borrowing books (at the shack) can be maintained, but not browsing in the library. She said most libraries in surrounding communities are stepping back services.
Ms. Parkinson emphasized that trustees should tell the public that there is staff in the library and services are available, but letting patrons in the building escalates the potential for transmitting the virus.
VOTE: By role call vote, trustees voted 4-0 (motion by Mr. Grady; seconded by Ms. Neil) to suspend in-person visits to the library until further notice.
Also, Mr. Grady requested a schedule specifying which and when employees are working.
The meeting adjourned at 4:20 pm.
The next meeting is scheduled for 4:30 pm on Jan. 26, 2021
Minutes submitted by Karen Nugent