Barbara Garvey, Chair called the meeting of the Springfield Library Board of Commissioners to order at 4:31 p.m.

Library Commissioners Present:

Barbara Garvey
Sheila McElwaine
Vera O’Connor
Rudy Ruggeri

Library Staff Present:

Emily Bader, Library Director
Lee Fogarty, Assistant Library Director
Carol Leaders, Administrative Assistant
Guest Speaker: Patrick Markey, City Solicitor

 

City Solicitor, Patrick Markey gave a brief update on the lawsuits involving the City of Springfield and the Springfield Museums Association. He reported that Judge Sweeney ruled that the Memorandum of Understanding between the SMA and City is void. A new contract must be negotiated between the SMA and the City.

As for Mason Square, the City is still accumulating documents and depositions regarding the sale of that branch library. The City will continue the investigative process.

Mr. Markey reported that Trusts and Endowments are being sorted out through recent discussions and negotiations with a possible settlement in December.

The matter of diverted funds has been reported to the proper authorities who are investigating.

Chairman, Barbara Garvey thanked Mr. Markey for his update.

A motion to approve the minutes of the October 5, 2005 meeting passed unanimously.

 

Committee Reports –

Commissioner McElwaine reported on the Architectural Access Board’s decision to accept the SMA’s proposed plan at the Museum of Fine Arts and the replacement of two parking places in front of the Central Library for handicap accessibility. Commissioner McElwaine has requested the AAB amend its decision with the following:

• Larger visibility of signage indicating handicapped parking availability to Central Library users
• Completion of State Street accessible parking as early as possible

In addition, Commissioner McElwaine recommends that the Library Commission support the SMA on its’ accessibility plan brought before the Historical Commission; support the SMA for any future requests regarding on street handicap drop off spots in front of the MFA (Chestnut St); negotiate a cost- sharing agreement between the library and parks departments and the SMA to fund a compliant level pad at a drop off area at top of Merrick Park; and negotiate an agreement with Christ Church to use the driveway around their building as an exit.

Director Bader pointed out that any signage provided by SMA or parks department be consistent with the signage plan designed for the Library.

A Motion to approve the November 2, 2005 Decision by the Architectural Access Board re: Handicap Access at the Quadrangle passed unanimously.

Ms. Garvey thanked Commissioner McElwaine and her Committee for being successful in this effort.

Commissioner McElwaine read a draft thank you letter to Martha Hannon for her help in preparing the complaint regarding the handicap access issue at the Quadrangle. With approval from the Library Commission the letter will be sent to Ms. Hannon.

 

Library Visits –

Commissioner McElwaine reported that she visited the Forest Park Branch; Commissioner Ruggerri visited both the Indian Orchard and Sixteen Acres Branches.

 

Director Bader announced that the Springfield City Library collected $1500 in fines and fees to donate to the Katrina Relief Fund to assist libraries in the New Orleans area.

 

Advisory Committee Reports –

Michael Stevens reported that the Mason Square Advisory Committee would be meeting with Mayor Ryan to discuss a parallel lawsuit with the City.

Mary Rivest expressed concern over the recent water damage at the Liberty Branch. Director Bader reported that the building is structurally sound and repairs will be scheduled as soon as possible. Cost estimates will be forthcoming.

A special invitation to attend the Read/Write/Now Open House, scheduled for November 30, 2005 was extended to all.

Meeting adjourned at 5:34 pm.

Respectfully submitted by:

Vera O’Connor

Approved: December 15, 2005