Astoria Library Board: reopening on schedule; Friends group to staff Library of Things and bookshop

Astoria Library Board members said at the Oct. 7 meeting that the library reopening is on schedule and within budget and urged the community to take part in the planned events.

Board Member Liz Tisdale reported enthusiasm in the community about the reopening and said she and Library Director Suzanne Harold are working to schedule an art show at the newly renovated library. Vice Chair Dan McClure said the renovation is progressing on time and noted that the parking lot was recently paved. Board Member Liz Bartell said the invitations for the reopening were well done and that the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will hold a members’ brunch before the official event. Chair Laura Parker said she had spoken with young people who plan to attend.

Pat Thomas, chair of the Astor Library Friends Association (ALFA), told the board that ALFA will participate in the reopening with a Library of Things display and information about the group, that ALFA is constructing a bookshop, and that it plans to update its bylaws and website and to create a new brochure.

Director Suzanne Harold presented the staff report outlining logistical steps under way: moving library materials and furniture back into the building, producing a commemorative bookmark to hand out at the reopening, and posting updates to the library website and social media. Harold asked board members to attend the reopening event, post flyers in the community, and encourage others to attend.

No new business or public comments were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m.