Otis trustees approve director's report as library pursues technology grants and community programs

Chairperson Susan Brofman called the Otis Board of Trustees to order March 13 and the board approved routine items, including the minutes from February and the Treasurer's report.

The trustees accepted the director's report, which listed upcoming programs and work on multiple technology and outreach initiatives. The director reported that a young woman who is an MLS student plans to move to Otis and had submitted a résumé; trustees noted interest in recruiting or involving her in programs. The director also proposed a program to show patrons how to use the Libby app, and said Wowbrary — an automated new‑titles service — is scheduled to start in early April.

Scheduled events include the Book Club discussion of The Mighty Red on March 20 and a Cookbook Club on March 21. A Lara Tupper writing class is listed for July 17 from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.; appearances by Tom Ragusa and Peter Cameron are listed as to be announced, and Marc‑Antony Arena is scheduled for June 5.

On funding, the minutes say the library will apply for an AARP grant intended to pay for Hot Spots and other technical needs; the amount for that application was not specified. The minutes also state that Berkshire Regional Technology funds are expected to arrive sometime in April and that a separate T‑Mobile grant for operations is being pursued; the minutes do not record dollar amounts for those grants.

Trustees were asked to review the Randall Library website in Stow, Massachusetts, as a model for some services, and staff said a new logo and brochure are being developed by a volunteer. Steve Barry of the Building Committee will supply brief bulleted updates each Friday for inclusion in the library email distribution.

The board's next regular meeting is scheduled for April 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 7:02 p.m.