The Paul Pratt Memorial Library will suspend most operations for three days in late April to facilitate a major migration to a web-based software platform. Library Director Bronwyn Nelson detailed the transition to the Board of Trustees on Wednesday, explaining that the new Old Colony Library Network (OCLN) system will allow staff to register patrons and check out materials remotely at locations like Sandy Beach or the local farmers market. The facility will close entirely on Monday, April 27, for intensive staff training and deep cleaning, followed by two days of limited service before the new system goes live on April 30.

The scheduled closure will also serve as a window for critical safety training. Director Nelson reported that while the police department has already provided CPR and Narcan training, Officer Lennon is scheduled to lead a de-escalation seminar for library employees during the April downtime. M. Brzy suggested that the board coordinate a staff appreciation event to coincide with the training day, noting that logistically it's easier to do it here since we have the space.

The software update comes amid a successful rollout of the library’s new data-driven operating hours, which went into effect last week. Nelson informed the board that the earlier morning openings have proven popular with residents, and a slight adjustment to staff schedules has eliminated friction during the evening rush. We shifted staff hours slightly so they stay until 7:35 PM when we close at 7:30 PM, Nelson said. In the past, their shift ended exactly at closing, which created tension with patrons finishing up. Now it's more relaxed.

Despite the operational successes, the board expressed significant concern regarding persistent facility hazards. Nelson flagged a series of falls in the parking lot and on sidewalks due to icy conditions, noting that she has had to remind the Department of Public Works that the library remains open on weekends. Additionally, a work order for outdoor lighting has remained unaddressed since November, creating a safety risk for evening patrons. S. Brown raised questions about the accessibility of the lot during winter weather after observing a snow-covered stall. I pulled in next to the handicap spot. One was covered in snow. Is there an issue with only having one? Brown asked, prompting Nelson to commit to a review of the lot’s requirements with the Town Engineer.

Construction on the library's outdoor pavilion project has also hit a seasonal snag. Nelson reported that the project is currently delayed because brickwork requires consistent temperatures above 30 degrees. This delay adds another chapter to the pavilion’s history of cost overruns and timing hurdles, which have been a recurring point of discussion for the trustees. On the personnel front, the library recently welcomed Taylor, a new full-time Adult Services Assistant who is currently completing her Master’s in Library Science and will manage programming and marketing.

Financial discussions centered on the approval of the monthly warrants and a burgeoning collection of memorial donations. Administrative Assistant Angela Bernier highlighted several new investments in the library’s collection and technology, including the Creativebug database for crafters and screenless audio players known as Yotos and Tonies. They are screenless audio players for kids... they are very popular, Bernier explained. The board also explored adopting DocuSign to streamline the bi-weekly signing of town warrants, as the current physical signature requirement has become a logistical burden for the trustees.

Motion Made by an unidentified member to approve the bills and warrants. Motion Passed (8-0). (Trustees E. Preslo, M. Brzy, C. Harvey, Juel, M. Lawrence, A. Vary, S. Brown, and S. Putziger in favor).

The board briefly touched on the release of endowment funds held in a Hingham Savings account, but Chair Catherine Harvey advised that a formal vote should wait until the previous meeting's minutes are refined to ensure the requisition is properly documented. We need the minutes to be tidied up to make sure we actually vote to requisition the funds, Harvey noted. In other financial news, the Friends of the Library reported they have already exceeded their annual appeal goal and will participate in a Stop & Shop Community Bag fundraiser throughout the month of March.