NEML trustees table bike program discussion

MILLERTON — On Wednesday, Feb. 12, the Library Board of Trustees met to discuss a potential bicycle program, community response to its offerings, and where the library stands in the SAM grant application process.

Along with the NorthEast-Millerton Library, locations in Dover, Pawling and Amenia are all considering a new bicycle program. As with library books, bicycles would be checked out and returned after use by members of the community.

The program, which has to clear insurance hurdles, is still in the early stages of discussion with the trustees agreeing to revisit the issue in a year after reviewing how libraries in the surrounding area navigate through the stages of their own bicycle programs. If approved, the program would start small with NorthEast-Millerton Library receiving up to two bicycles at most.

The library has resubmitted its paperwork for its State and Municipal Facilities (SAM) Grant, which is now being processed. The library is now waiting on an audit and then approval from the state. “I’m hoping that once it gets through the audit process — which doesn’t appear to be that bad — if it passes that, it’s the state approving it — finally. That will take a long time,” said library director Rhiannon Leo-Jameson. “There’s about $7,000 built into the grant.”

The trustees noted library usage, circulation, and community participation in library events is on the rise. Leo-Jameson cited the recent success of the “Taste of Korea” event, which explored the food and culture of the Asian nation.

The event was booked to capacity. “It was really interesting, and everyone had a great time,’ said Leo-Jameson. “So, maybe [we’ll] have that program back again in the future … It was extremely affordable.”