Bedford Free Public Library users may already know Rachel Hertzberg, who has been a part-time staff member for some time and is now officially the Children’s Librarian.
Director Richard Callaghan announced the new hire at the April 9 meeting of the Trustee Board. Hertzberg will graduate from the Simmons University School of Library and Information Science on May 17 with a double major degree in Library Science and Children’s Literature. She has already been working alongside Nicole Monk, Head of Children’s Services, so many visitors to the Children’s room are already acquainted with her.
“She is a good fit for us,” noted Assistant Director Noreen O’Gara.
HVAC Update
Because the Select Board did not meet on April 8 due to lack of a quorum, approval of the contractor’s bid for the HVAC work is set for their April 16 meeting, according to Facilities Director Ron Scaltreto. He was pleased with the low bid that came in at $3.185 million from New England Builders and Contractors, a firm that has worked on two other successful projects in town – the 2017 addition to Lane School and the recent Police Station renovation.
“Once the contract is signed, there will be a kickoff meeting,” Callaghan said, “and then we will know more about schedules.”
Scaltreto will brief the Trustees at their May meeting.
As the Director noted, “There are many unknowns, but the staff is being briefed and are already thinking about ways to assure minimal patron impact. Outside pickup of books is one service that will continue.”
Library Eclipse Party
Callaghan applauded the staff for their great work in renewing and issuing library cards along with handing out 1,400 pairs of eclipse glasses, at one point giving out 250 glasses in an hour. The Trustees commended the Library for organizing the lawn party that attracted a crowd of eclipse viewers.
Board Reorganization
Traditionally, the Board reorganizes at the April meeting. Longtime Trustee Rachel Field was voted in as Chair and Padma Chowdry as Vice-Chair. Trustees Renae Nichols, Elizabeth Hacala, and Padma Chowdry were elected to the Library Corporation Board, a separate entity.
Strategic Plan
Callaghan and O’Gara are reviewing proposals for a consultant to guide the Library’s Five-Year Strategic Plan. The work will likely entail a community survey and focus groups with the plan to be completed by December. The Trustees noted the importance of updating the plan and their involvement in the work as both the Director and Assistant Director have indicated they plan to retire at some point during the next five years.
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