Trustees discussed plans to renovate the library’s lower-level (basement) space for programming and storage. The meeting focused on whether to commission a structural-engineering assessment or to pursue a request for proposals (RFP) from general contractors to scope and bid the work.

Trustees said the renovation goals are modest: create usable programming space, clear storage and address mold and other building-condition issues highlighted by staff. Trustees identified a particular interior masonry wall as a priority question: whether it is load-bearing and whether removing or altering it would require extensive structural work.

The group reviewed prior reports on the building (historical-preservation assessments and previous foundation reports) and discussed cost and procurement approaches. Trustees heard that an architect or structural engineer had quoted a site inspection and report in the range of $1,500 to $3,000 for a focused assessment; by contrast, an RFP to a general contractor could yield bids that would indicate whether a separate engineer’s report is required.

Trustees approved a working-path approach: staff will prepare an RFP for a general contractor to bid the lower-level project and, if a contractor or scope requires an engineering assessment, the trustees authorized the working group to obtain a focused structural assessment. The board agreed the structural assessment, if needed, would be funded from the library’s donation/trust account and capped at an amount of up to $3,000 so the working group could proceed without waiting until the full October trustee meeting.

Trustees emphasized the need for a detailed scope so bidders understand the historical character to be preserved and the primary objectives (egress, mold remediation, flooring and wall integrity). Staff said they would gather known previous structural contacts and contractor names used by the town to help expedite the RFP and any follow-up engineering engagement.