News from the Library: Trustees Elect Rachel Field as New Chair

By Dot Bergin

Rachel Field, a Trustee of the Bedford Free Public Library since 2008, will become chair at the July meeting, succeeding current chair Howard Cohen. Field is a documentary film producer who has written and produced award-winning documentaries for WGBH-TV.  In addition to her interest in the programs, policies and events happening inside the Library, she has a keen interest in the beautification of the grounds. She was also a driving force behind the purchase of the outdoor chess/checker tables, to be installed on the drive-up side of the building as soon as weather permits.  Bob Batt was elected vice-chair. Trustees continuing on the Board are: Cohen, Lorrie Dunham, Abigail Hafer, Lynne O’Connell and Michael Pulizzi.

At the May 13 meeting of the Trustees, Director Richard Callaghan reported on a recent staff change:  Lisa Baylis, Circulation Assistant for the past 15 years, has taken a position as head of circulation at the Groton Public Library. The Circulation Desk will now be headed by Jennifer Dalrymple, a long time staff member.

In response to a patron query concerning privacy of material held on the Reserve shelf, Assistant Library Director Noreen O’Gara reviewed the process for requesting an “alias” tied to a Library patron’s user card. To receive an alias, a patron must request it from the Circulation Desk; once an alias is assigned, any library materials “on hold” for that patron will be placed on the reserve shelf under the alias, thus ensuring privacy.

As summer approaches, the Library is shifting gears into summer mode.  Library users should be aware that Sunday opening ends this weekend (Sunday, May 18) and will resume in September after Labor Day.  Callaghan noted that many patrons are happy with the extended 9 to 6 pm hours on Fridays.

On Saturday, May 17, you are invited to meet the photographer Dick Simon at a 5 pm reception.  Simon’s exhibit, titled “kNOw THEM,” portrays the human stories behind the headlines in regions of conflict around the world.  Sharing his experiences, Simon bridges the gap between “us” and “them.”  His work was selected by the Bedford Art Steering Committee; the exhibit will run until July 9.