Library sees record circulation, eyes toy-lending program after donor pledge

Trustees at the Westport library heard a director's report showing a record circulation year and discussed new programming funded by an external donor.

A trustee reported that circulation surpassed 100,000 this year, saying, "we did, get past a 100,000 for circulation this year. It was 102 291 items circulated last year," marking the highest annual circulation the library has recorded. The director and trustees highlighted steady increases in program attendance and outreach, including adult and children's programs that drew dozens of participants.

The director described progress on a toy-lending library in partnership with Traveling Toys Inc., saying the program will be funded by a $5,000 donation from an individual associated with Jeffrey's Clothing; she said she expects the check by the end of July and hopes to start the program around September, with staff working on space and inventory logistics. Trustees discussed space constraints, the mix of toys (about 100 items for younger children and roughly 30 for teens), labeling and storage, and coordination with town staff for room scheduling.

Trustees also received an update from the Friends of the Library: at their July 9 meeting the Friends approved a $40,000 contribution to the library gift fund and membership renewals are at about 85 percent. Trustees were asked to assist with volunteer recruitment and distribution of information about the Friends' book sale in September.

The board voted to accept the director's report and to receive and file the Friends update. The trustees noted next steps for the toy program (signing the memorandum of understanding with Traveling Toys and sourcing storage and totes) and asked staff to keep them informed of the donation receipt and launch timeline.