New Milford Library Reelects Officers, Reviews Summer Programs, Building Repairs

NEW MILFORD, CT — The New Milford Public Library Board of Trustees unanimously reelected its officers for another term and received updates on summer programming, building maintenance and fundraising during its July 15 meeting.

The board unanimously reelected Paul Partelow as president, Katy Francis as vice president, Sharon Chamberlin as treasurer and Chris Fisher as secretary after receiving no additional nominations. Partelow was absent from the meeting.

Trustees also unanimously approved the June 17 meeting minutes after correcting the record to clarify that a check sent to Matson Financial was intended to fund the library's expansion fund and correcting the spelling of trustee Jeni Cramer's name in one agenda item.

Treasurer Sharon Chamberlin reviewed the check register, treasurer's report and monthly bills. She told the board she is working with Matson Financial to comply with the town auditor's request for documentation. Trustees unanimously approved both the treasurer's report and the payment of bills.

Library Director Kathy Reilly reported on several recent and upcoming programs. She said the library hosted a flag ceremony, a Stars & Stripes Story program and an American Revolution-themed day as part of New Milford's America 250 celebration. Other recent activities included an escape room, silhouette picture making, a puppet show, a chess tournament, Lawyers in the Library and ukulele classes. Reilly said Mahjong programming has grown in popularity, prompting the purchase of additional kits, and another Makerspace program is being planned. Summer reading programs for children and teens have also begun.

Reilly also updated trustees on several building maintenance issues. She said the library's main elevator has been out of service three times while the Facilities Department and Otis Elevator diagnose the problem. Damage to the building's front windows is being repaired, and the air conditioning system in the audiovisual area is expected to be fixed once a replacement part arrives. Trustees unanimously approved the director's report.

Friends of the Library representative Lin Fitch told the board the organization's next book fair is scheduled for Aug. 7 and 8. She also reported that Friends of the Library donations to the New Milford Public Library have surpassed $500,000.

In committee reports, trustees said the Finance Committee had not met and would reschedule its July meeting. The Personnel and Policy Committee is scheduled to meet Aug. 26.

Under new business, trustee Sandy Ivler reported that the arts and cultural venue brochure discussed at an earlier meeting had been completed and was being distributed throughout town.

The board entered executive session at 6:05 p.m. to discuss a staff procedure. Trustees returned to open session at 6:35 p.m. without taking any votes or actions in executive session before adjourning at 6:36 p.m.