FAIRFIELD, CT — The Fairfield Public Library Board of Library Trustees reviewed circulation trends, security concerns, upcoming policy changes and fundraising initiatives during its Nov. 9 meeting at the Main Library.
Town Librarian Scott Jarzombek also announced plans to introduce an artificial intelligence policy in December, while trustees discussed the rising costs of digital borrowing and reviewed the library's annual performance statistics.
Deputy Town Librarian Jan Fisher presented findings from the library's annual report, filed Oct. 1 as part of the requirements for receiving state grants.
The report, covering fiscal year 2025-26, showed that overall circulation declined 4.1 percent, while digital circulation increased 10 percent. Programming attendance rose 4.3 percent.
Approximately 25,000 library cards have been issued in Fairfield. Books account for the largest share of circulation, followed by audiobooks.
More recent statistics showed an improvement in borrowing activity. During July, August and September 2026, overall circulation increased 6.6 percent, while digital resource use rose 11.1 percent.
Trustees discussed the financial implications of growing demand for digital materials. According to the meeting minutes, the library incurs fees when patrons borrow digital books, making increased use of those resources costly.
Library officials are discussing ways to address those expenses.
Jarzombek reported several operational issues, including security concerns at the Fairfield Woods Branch Library, where some doors cannot be locked.
He also discussed changes to procedures for opening and closing the Main Library, including the use of its main entrance.
The library is removing self-checkout machines from both the Main Library and Woods Branch because of low usage and recurring mechanical problems, Jarzombek said.
Jarzombek also reported attending three library conferences, where artificial intelligence and the concept of reading as a form of wellness were recurring themes.
He said he anticipates the library will need an AI policy and plans to present one to trustees at their December meeting.
The board also received an introduction to a proposed Request for Reconsideration policy and accompanying form.
Jarzombek said the policy would establish a process for individuals with a vested interest to challenge library materials, educational resources, displays or programs.
Trustees are expected to discuss the proposal at their December meeting.
The board also reviewed the library's Collection Development Policy.
Jarzombek said the library does not plan to make substantive changes because the policy comes from the state and such revisions would require state approval.
However, trustees expect to finalize language concerning patrons' ages at the December meeting.
No final action on either policy was recorded during the Nov. 9 meeting.
Trustee May Bayer provided an update on the library's fundraising efforts, including a $20,000 donation from the Harmon Family Foundation supporting the Bears and Books program.
The program has launched, and Bayer reported that a child had already brought a bear and book to the library.
Bayer also drafted a thank-you note to the Harmon family on behalf of the trustees.
Fisher reported additional interest in supporting the library, including an inquiry from a patron about making a donation.
Another patron is making a donation to support programming featuring Mark Schenker in spring 2027.
Friends of the Library President Mike Foley outlined several upcoming fundraising activities.
The Friends' Big Book Sale is scheduled for Nov. 20-22 at the Main Library, with volunteers preparing for the event.
Foley also announced plans for a Lit Gala in fall 2027 at the Main Library. The fundraising event is expected to feature dinner, dancing and a silent auction. Planning committees are being formed.
A comedy night is also being planned for February.
The Friends are considering a professional mascot costume featuring Scout the Fox, similar to mascots used by sports teams.
Foley also reported that six pieces of artwork were sold during the latest exhibition at the Kirschner Gallery.
He noted that the library and Friends of the Library participated in a recent Halloween event at the Fairfield Museum that drew approximately 6,000 people.
Jarzombek highlighted attendance at several recent library activities.
The library's Halloween parade attracted 350 attendees, while an after-hours mystery night organized by Teen Services drew 60 participants and generated a waiting list.
The fall puzzle exchange resulted in 379 puzzles being swapped.
Board Chair Stefanie Borsari presented the treasurer's report on behalf of absent trustee Erin Harrigan.
The library's endowment funds had increased 5 percent to approximately $13 million as of Sept. 30, 2026.
Two distributions were made from the Simko account to First County.
Borsari and Harrigan are also updating accounts and changing authorized signatories to reflect the board's current membership.
Borsari welcomed Kenneth Osborn to his first meeting as a member of the Board of Library Trustees.
Osborn, a Fairfield resident of 22 years, said he previously owned and sold a dot-com company and has been involved in youth coaching in town. He currently works in commercial real estate with the Higgins Group and recently started a coffee business.
Borsari also recognized Jarzombek's fifth anniversary as town librarian.
She encouraged trustees to serve as ambassadors for the library and bring community feedback to the board.
Borsari is developing a frequently asked questions document to help trustees understand their responsibilities and assist with onboarding future members.
Later in the meeting, trustees entered executive session to discuss Jarzombek's performance assessment and goals for the coming year.
At their December meeting, trustees are expected to consider the proposed AI policy, discuss procedures for reconsidering library materials and finalize language in the Collection Development Policy concerning patrons' ages.
The board also will continue addressing digital borrowing costs and library security concerns.
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