Michele Capozzella

The strategic plan for Mahopac Library outlines its direction from 2025 to 2027, focusing on seven key areas. These include promoting literacy and lifelong learning through innovative technologies and collection development, expanding social programs to foster community connectedness, reinventing physical spaces for greater interaction and flexibility, cultivating a sense of ownership for the library and community while investing in staff and volunteers, promoting resources and programs through multiple platforms, protecting and preserving physical assets and the building, and reinforcing and expanding trustees' engagement and skills as board members. The plan aims to enhance library services, community engagement, and operational effectiveness.

The meeting discussed the library's construction project, including the history of building issues, evaluations, and proposed solutions. Topics included a sprinkler pipe burst in 2016, engagement with Tetra Tech architects and engineers, and subsequent investigations revealing issues with the building envelope. The discussion also covered measures taken to mitigate these issues, such as insulating the attic and adjusting the HVAC system, as well as the impact on insurance premiums. The board consulted with the Mahopac school district and the Palumbo Group for recommendations. Tetra Tech proposed addressing mechanicals and insulation, leading to a proposal accepted at the board's April 14, 2021 meeting. The scope of the project includes pavement and sidewalk work, addressing efflorescence, elevator work, and improving energy efficiency by adding insulation and managing airflow.

The meeting included discussions on various reports, including the Secretary's, Treasurer's, President's, Friends', and Library Director's reports. Key discussion points included updates on the Long Range Plan, collection development policy, and committee reports from Building and Contracts, Board Development and Nominating, Bylaws and Policy, Planning, Personnel, Finance, Advancement and Public Relations, and Information Technology. An action item was the provisional appointment of a Librarian I. The director's report included updates on personnel, continuing education, programs and services, and statistics. Department reports covered circulation, reference, teen services, youth services, and the learning lab. Also discussed were grant and gift information, building and grounds updates, and school/community/system information.

The newsletter discusses the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, highlighting that the requested levy has remained flat for the seventh consecutive year. It emphasizes prioritizing staff compensation and development, continuing work towards Sustainable Library certification, and maintaining a capital reserve for fixture and equipment replacement. The Library received grants for cybersecurity improvements, upgraded computer equipment, and the installation of a generator for use during weather-related outages. The newsletter also includes candidate statements for the Board of Trustees election.