Amesbury Public Library Board of Trustee Meeting
Trustees reviewed Council Order 2025-089 (a proposed $6M operating override for the November ballot) and discussed its potential staffing impacts for the library; they were also informed that the library's National Register of Historic Places application was unanimously approved.
The trustees received updates from the Friends of the Library, budget, facilities, and the director. The Friends reported August proceeds (including $200 from a Barewolf satellite location) and plans for a satellite bookstore ribbon cutting; they are seeking a new treasurer. The Director completed ARIS reporting to the state, which will enable receipt of 2026 State Aid. Facilities updates included selection of paint colors for the window restoration project, completion of scheduled sycamore treatments, and discussion of the front birch trees (Bartlett Tree quoted over $4,000 for full removal). The board recommended a heavy prune this year with annual reevaluation and Jessica will request DPW quotes for removal and pruning. The City's procurement officer will put the library cleaning contract out to bid in spring 2026 as the three-year contract is under yearly review.
The Director reported that an adult quiet workspace downstairs is being piloted and is being staffed by library leadership. Subcommittee updates noted the strategic plan is ready to begin and fundraising conversations (including Charitable Trust trustees and Friends' donor software) are ongoing. In new business, the Director reviewed Council Order 2025-089 (the proposed $6M override) and explained what a yes or no vote would mean for library staffing. Under matters not anticipated, trustees were informed that the library's National Register application was unanimously approved at today’s meeting, and that City Council has filed Bernadette Lucas’ resignation from the Board of Library Trustees (Council bill 2025-085); the chair will present ideas at the next meeting. There was no public comment.