LFNAC Minutes – March 12, 2009

The Library Facilities Needs Assessment Committee met at the Hatfield Public Library at 6:30 p.m.

Present: Martin Antonetti, Dodie Gaudet, Harold Green, Lynn Omasta and Mary Williams. Also present: Stephen Hale, architect.
Absent: Susan Gaughan, Milton Howard

Now that we have decided to pursue an addition and renovation to the Dickinson Memorial Building, Stephan has begun making more detailed drawings. We reviewed Stephen’s drawings. There was lots of discussion.

If the Library assumes responsibility of the collection in the Historical Museum, we have more options in terms of design and fewer worries about MBLC funding. Stephen suggests that we display some of the items by distributing them throughout the building and integrating them into the décor. Museum storage and work space could be located in the basement, but it would be a nicer space than the attic since there would be some natural light. The current attic (Museum) could become the public meeting room. All of these ideas are preliminary. We need more discussion with the Historical Society. The Library Trustees and the future Director would also have to agree with this plan.

We discussed handicapped access through the current front door in addition to what will become the main entrance at the back of the building near the parking lot. Can a ramp be integrated into the architecture and still look good? Can it be combined with a porch?

We will have another open house at the Library on Saturday, April 18 from 1-4 p.m.

Our next meeting is Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hatfield Library; Stephen Hale will attend this meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Dodie Gaudet, Secretary