Stowe Free Library

The meeting came to order with Dick Johannesen, Stephanie Chase (SC), Trisha Fong, Jo Sabel Courtney, Phyllis Thibault, Meg Kauffman, Nancy Stead, Town Manager Charles Safford and State Librarian Marty Reid present.

The minutes of May 1 were amended to correct the spelling of Marty Reid’s name and, with regards to the purchase of state parks passes, the Library has not yet purchased a second pass but may elect to.

[Director's Report -- PDF file]

State Librarian Marty Reid shared her thoughts on the current status of libraries. She said Vermont has more libraries per capita than any other state and sees the need to move towards a more centralized hub system for core services to save money, but recognizes that will be difficult. She would like to see a statewide catalogue and network to facilitate searches for circulation materials. There were 3.6 million library visits last year, and regardless of one’s opinion on the future of books, it is clear that people want a place to congregate, bring their lap tops, have study/work space, collaborative space, teen space, and pertinent programs for all ages. She incidentally promotes teen gaming programs and a coffee area in libraries.

Charles' comment that the library is “a community living room’ resonated with the board, provoking discussion about our role in the community and how to increase visibility. We want to provide “a pleasant, welcoming quiet space, a big book collection, assistance in navigating the current myriad sources of information, and entertainment.

Ways to promote visibility include hosting functions associated with pertinent events in town (ie. mountain bike club) and to once a year have an open house for new residents and invite the various organizations that have volunteer programs to come. Also, Trustees should have in mind various “sound bytes” to put out to the community: statistics and ideas to put out to people while standing in line at the grocery store, the post office etc. Did you know so-and-so is coming to talk about his/her book next week? Do you know there is a teen knitting group? Etc.

Lastly, libraries are going to have to figure out their role in communication through mobile devices.

Volunteer Event: We would like to acknowledge library volunteers by inviting them to Stowe Inn for cocktails on Wed., June 24, 4:30-6:30. Jo will pursue.

Long Range Plan: The next meeting is Thurs., June 11, 8:30. Prior to the meeting we should review what we have said to date and see what pops out so as to define our mission, vision and values. The final LRP meeting will be Mon., June 22, 8:30.

Friends of Stowe Free Library gave money to purchase an eBook reader!

New Business:

1. Use of Outdoor Space: In the fall there needs to be a joint meeting of representatives of the boards of the Library, HDAC and SHS to discuss usage of public space (lawn, gazebo, porches) for the following year.
2. “Library Annex” issue: A thoughtful response to Anne Lusk and Evelyn Frey’s article in the June 4 Stowe Reporter and enclosure in the school newsletter about turning the Rotary Barn into “a library annex” needs to be made. We need to reflect on what to say.  

The next meeting will be Friday August 7, 8:30 a.m.

Respectfully Submitted, Nancy Stead, Secretary