Last Author talk with Linda Stasi on 4/22
Great Author Talk with Lisa Genova on 3/25
Author/Journalist Linda Stasi shared how her family from Sicily came to the US in the early 1900s, were moved to Colorado to work in the mines, took advantage of the early prohibition law in Colorado, and evolved into the early Mafia of the 20th century. The novel tells the story of author Stasi’s grandmother and six aunts, whose names have been changed, but is based on real events.
In addition to hearing several fascinating stories, the audience enjoyed wine, cheese, and Italian meatballs in honor of the family’s origin.
Our team will be working over the spring and summer to prepare for the Fall 2026 Series. Be on the lookout for news of books and authors for October, November, and early December.
South End Library News 4/16/26 by Yvette Jarreau, President, FOSEL
In a recent meeting with Mayor Wu and her staff from Neighborhood Services and City Operations, several community members discussed the South End Library. The Mayor expressed her commitment to getting the new building built, and the need to address the concern about city service vehicles being able to access the homes adjacent to the new building between W. Newton and Rutland Streets.
A physical, vehicle test has been done recently, and the City Operations Department has developed two options for the way we use Alleys 510 and 529. These options will be presented at forthcoming community meetings currently being scheduled for early May, one of which will take place in Library Park and other will be virtual. Both will include visuals so our South End neighbors can see what is being proposed.
Additionally, a timeline/schedule for the whole project will be shared. In the meantime, Utile, our architects, have also addressed a modification to the alley-side of the building that is designed to make access easier.
Many thanks to all of you who advocated for the release of funds, contractor selection, and community information. Your messages created more urgency and made a difference.
En una reunión reciente con la alcaldesa Wu y su equipo de Servicios Vecinales y Operaciones Municipales, variosmiembros de la comunidad hablaron sobre la Biblioteca del South End. La alcaldesa expresó su compromiso con laconstrucción del nuevo edificio y la necesidad de abordar la preocupación sobre la posibilidad de que los vehículos deservicio municipal puedan acceder a las viviendas adyacentes al nuevo edificio entre las calles W. Newton y Rutland.Recientemente se ha realizado una prueba física de vehículos, y el Departamento de Operaciones de la Ciudad hadesarrollado dos opciones para el uso de los Callejones 510 y 529. Estas opciones se presentarán en próximas reunionescomunitarias que se programan para principios de mayo, una de las cuales tendrá lugar en Library Park y otra serávirtual. Ambos incluirán imágenes para que nuestros vecinos del South End puedan ver lo que se propone. Además, se compartirá un calendario y calendario para todo el proyecto. Mientras tanto, Utile, nuestros arquitectos, también hanabordado una modificación en el lado del callejón del edificio diseñada para facilitar el acceso. Muchas gracias a todos losque defendisteis la liberación de fondos, la selección de contratistas y la información de la comunidad. Tus mensajescrearon más urgencia y marcaron la diferencia.
Testimony for Ways & Means Committee of the Boston City Council 3/24/26
Testimony for Ways & Means Committee of the Boston City Council 3/24/26
My name is Yvette Jarreau and I am President of the Friends of the South End Library. Thank you Chair Weber and Vice Chair Fitzgerald for this hearing. And thank you councilors Fizgerald, Culpepper, and Flynn for your ongoing support of the South End Library. I am asking for your active help getting the release of funds for the South End’s new library building.
The capital funds for the SEL project were approved for fiscal 26 at $32.5 million; Councilor Culpepper has sponsored a resolution to increase that to $35 million. I understand the project is about ready to go out to bid but awaits a release from the Office of Budget Management.
The South End Library rebuild ifs a special case given its unplanned closure from catastrophic flooding shortly after the Covid shutdown. It has now been closed nearly 5 years. This special case was acknowledged by the city’s decision to accelerate the project and has resulted in a lovely design by Utile Inc.
Recently, that design needed minor alterations because neighbors adjacent to the building had concerns about access to the alleys parallel and perpendicular to the building. Testing was done and adjustments to the design are being made. This project should now go forward into the construction bidding process. We need to continue the acceleration. Why?
· Because of the length of closure, a whole cohort of young children have not had the experience and benefits of a local library where they can explore, learn, and get ready for school. Those that are already in school are not having the library’s support for reading, good study habits, and homework so helpful for success later.
· Many seniors remain concerned they will never see or be able to use the new building because they won’t live long enough.
· For the many immigrants who live in our neighborhood, the local library is a refuge and source of much needed information and learning about various aspects of civic life.
· This lengthy period without a local library has not diminished the level of interest and desire by the community. I am asked regularly by people in the neighborhood about when the new building will be started and when it will be completed. Rather, this wait has only increased the level of longing and need.
· Our new library building is also an important element to support South End families’ decision-making about staying in the city rather than moving out, because it will directly improve the quality of life in our neighborhood.
Please provide your support for releasing the capital budget funds now to begin the construction phase of the project.
Testimonio para el Comité de Medios y Arbitrios del Ayuntamiento de Boston 3/24/26
Me llamo Yvette Jarreau y soy presidenta de los Amigos de la Biblioteca del South End.
Gracias, presidente Weber y vicepresidente Fitzgerald, por esta audiencia. Y gracias a los concejales Fizgerald, Culpepper y Flynn por vuestro apoyo continuo ala Biblioteca de South End. Te pido ayuda activa para conseguir la liberación de fondos para el nuevo edificio de la biblioteca del South End.
Los fondos de capital para el proyecto SEL fueron aprobados para el año fiscal 26 en 32,5 millones de dólares; El concejal Culpepper ha patrocinado unaresolución para aumentar esa cifra a 35 millones de dólares. Entiendo que el proyecto está a punto de salir a licitación, pero espera una autorización de laOficina de Gestión Presupuestaria.
La reconstrucción de la Biblioteca del South End es un caso especial dado su cierre no planificado debido a inundaciones catastróficas poco después del cierrepor Covid. Lleva cerrada casi 5 años. Este caso especial fue reconocido por la decisión de la ciudad de acelerar el proyecto y ha dado lugar a un diseñoencantador de Utile Inc.
Recientemente, ese diseño necesitó pequeñas modificaciones porque los vecinos adyacentes al edificio tenían preocupaciones sobre el acceso a los callejonesparalelos y perpendiculares al edificio. Se realizaron pruebas y se están haciendo ajustes en el diseño. Este proyecto debería avanzar ahora en el proceso delicitación de construcción. Tenemos que continuar acelerando. ¿Por qué?
Debido a la duración del cierre, toda una cohorte de niños pequeños no ha tenido la experiencia ni los beneficios de una biblioteca local donde puedan explorar,aprender y prepararse para ir al colegio. Quienes ya están en el colegio no cuentan con el apoyo de la biblioteca para la lectura, los buenos hábitos de estudio ylos deberes, tan útiles para el éxito más adelante.
Muchos mayores siguen preocupados porque nunca podrán ver o usar el nuevo edificio porque no vivirán lo suficiente.
Para los muchos inmigrantes que viven en nuestro barrio, la biblioteca local es un refugio y fuente de información y aprendizaje muy necesarios sobre diversosaspectos de la vida cívica.
Este largo periodo sin una biblioteca local no ha disminuido el nivel de interés y deseo de la comunidad. La gente del barrio me pregunta regularmente cuándoempezará y cuándo se terminará el nuevo edificio. Más bien, esta espera solo ha aumentado el nivel de anhelo y necesidad. Nuestro nuevo edificio debiblioteca también es un elemento importante para apoyar la decisión de las familias del South End sobre quedarse en la ciudad en lugar de mudarse, porquemejorará directamente la calidad de vida en nuestro barrio.
Por favor, apoyen la liberación de los fondos del presupuesto de capital ahora para comenzar la fase de construcción del proyecto.
Muchas gracias por tu ayuda con esto.
Yvette Jarreau Presidente, Amigos de la Biblioteca del South End (203) 984-1530
At our first Author Talk of the Spring Season, we heard great stories from Bruce Robert Coffin
Despite the weather and the challenges with sidewalks, a warm and friendly crowd enjoyed Sara DeVello’s interview of Bruce Robert Coffin about his background as a Detective Sergeant in the Portland Police Department and his more recent career as a prolific author of detective mysteries. His great stories about what he learned as a detective entertained us and form the basis of his present-day writing.
Our next talk on 3/25 will feature Lisa Genova, neuroscientist and NYT best-selling author of Still Alice, sharing about her most recent book, More or Less Maddy. Don’t miss it!
For future programs check this page as the series progresses.
South End Library Building Project Update
Our last Community Meeting about the SEL new building was on May 28, 2025. Since then, the architects have been working to finalize the design and get drawings ready for the bidding/contracting process which was planned for Fall/Winter.
In October we learned that neighborhood associations adjacent to the library had raised concerns about the ability of plows and garbage trucks to negotiate the alleys between and perpendicular to the new library building footprint. In the months since this issue was raised, relevant city departments have been determining specific requirements for ensuring these vehicles can service the residents who use these alleys.
In a recent conversation with David Leonard, Boston Public Library President, we learned additional information. He shared, “We hope we are now in the very last stages of a design adjustment caused by these clarified requirements for a turning circle coming in and out of the alley. This should be completed in a matter of a few weeks.”
Also impacting the progress of this project is more-than-normal uncertainty about funding and rising costs. Even though the City’s Capital Budget was approved for FY 27 in late 2025 during the city’s budget process, there is an Office of Budget Management release that must take place before the funds are available for planned capital projects. That release has not yet occurred. He is hopeful that the library will be given an update on this prior to the release deadline of April 8th.
We will continue to keep the South End community informed of both design progress and funding status.
Announcing our 2026 Spring Author Series
Our Spring 2026 Author Talks are scheduled!
FOSEL has evolved the South End Library Author Series to reach beyond the South End and Boston to entice our friends and neighbors to experience acclaimed authors, their books, and the conversations they generate.
This season enjoy a stimulating evening connecting with admired authors whose work will range across multiple genres and geographies! It’s a great time to connect with friends and neighbors! After the talk and Q&A discussion, take advantage of the opportunity to purchase the showcased book(s), enjoy the signing, and appreciate appetizers, wine or soft drinks with other readers from the South End.
Parkside Books, our new neighborhood bookstore at 260 Shawmut Ave, will be on site to sell the books and it will be a good moment to connect with them as well. https://www.parksidebookshop.com/
Our Spring 2026 series of three sessions will be held at the United Church at 485 Columbus Ave, at 6:30pm in the Connection Room. They will be available by Zoom for those who are unable to come in person and enjoy the camaraderie, refreshments, and book signings of these events.
FOSEL wishes ALL a peaceful and safe Holiday Season
Friends of the South End Library are so very grateful for all the support from the South End community – our donors, our engaged neighbors, our city workers, and our elected officials. We wish ALL a peaceful and safe holiday season and a happy new year that we hope will include the start of a new library building.
A large crowd was energized and delighted to hear from Ilyon Woo in our final author talk of the Fall 2025 series
In spite of a little rain, the crowd for our final author talk of the Fall 2025 series was energized and delighted to hear from Ilyon Woo about her Pulitzer prize winning book, Master Slave Husband Wife. Thanks to all who came out and to the folks who attended virtually.
Through Sara DiVello’s masterful interviewing we learned so much about Woo’s impetus for writing the book, her research, and her feelings about the characters in this amazing and harrowing true story of escape from slavery. We also learned she is writing a children’s version of this courageous couple from scratch to teach and engage that age group about an important part of our history.
To all who missed it, the video recording is available on our FOSEL Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/FriendsoftheSouthEndLibrary
Or via Zoom link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/Ff-mHtW-ykH0i1XHhXuhsagYagvwYUNj_l8dNsgi0RPoiz21hS8pvQpWNq3pqB_w.BWV6Z3nbRAFwAT_H
Passcode: Z1^tgmEB
For future programs check this page as winter progresses and we make plans.
Union Church welcomed us for the spellbinding author interview with Alma Katsu & FOSEL’s Sara DiVello
Alma Katsu, author of Fiend and interviewer Sara DiVello kept us on the edge of our seats as they explored Alma’s career journey from CIA Analyst to novelist of multiple books in the spy and horror genres. We learned that Alma’s drive to write ultimately required she leave the CIA to pursue her current passion.
Born in Alaska but raised here in Concord, MA, Alma began writing before her intelligence career, and returned to it, publishing her first novel, The Taker, in 2011. Her novels often blend genres, such as historical fiction with the supernatural, evidenced in The Hunger, a story of the Donner Party, which received an NPR award for horror.
Alma shared that The Fiend, a story about a wildly financially successful family with a terrifying evil demon was inspired in part by the acclaimed TV series Succession and has many parallels with some of today’s real situations like the Sacklers, the Murdochs, and others.
Our next author talk will be on December 10th with local author, Ilyon Woo, sharing her experience writing Pulitzer Prize winning, Master Slave Husband Wife. Join us at 6:30pm at Union Church, 485 Columbus Ave, Boston.
Join or renew your Support for FOSEL
We think you'll agree that libraries are the heart of a community. The Friends of the South End Library (FOSEL) helps keep our library thriving while we await construction of the new South End Library building. FOSEL plays a vital role in our community by:
Advocating for the new South End Library branch
Bringing neighbors together for summer concerts
Hosting author talks in person and online
Stocking the Little Free Library with great reads
Promoting programs like popups, children's storytime, yoga, and Scoops Book Club
Our annual appeal has just begun, and we invite you to join or renew your support for FOSEL. Your contribution helps sustain programs that bring people together and keeps the library’s spirit alive while we look ahead to the new branch.
Fall Author Series had an exciting start last Wednesday
Last Wednesday the Friends of the South End Library opened its Fall Author Series at Union Church with a visit from Joanne Harris, acclaimed author of Chocolat. She talked about her newest book, Vianne, which is the prequel to Chocolat. Her host for the evening was FOSEL’s Sara DiVello. An engaged audience filled the room for the wide ranging conversation. Afterwards, Parkside Books sold copies of both Vianne and Chocolat. Ms. Harris autographed books while attendees mingled and enjoyed drinks and chocolates. It was a most enjoyable evening.
Announcing our Fall Author Series
Come enjoy stimulating evenings connecting with admired authors whose work will range across multiple genres and geographies! It’s also a great time to connect with friends and neighbors! After the talk and Q&A discussion, take advantage of the opportunity to purchase the showcased book(s), enjoy the signing, and appreciate delicious appetizers, wine or soft drinks with other readers from the South End.
Final Summer Concert Last Night
Our last concert for the summer season was wonderful! Brazilian flavor jazz mixed with a few pop songs by Pat Loomis & Friends, including a lovely vocalist, Concetta. We're actively scouting out a temporary venue for next summer since our beloved Library Park will be closed for construction. We're considering close-by O'Day park on W Newton where the new benches fan out facing the new building. Check it out and let us know what you think.
Summary of 6th Community Meeting
Sixty-two people attended the virtual meeting with the following agenda:
1. Introductions
2. Schedule and Process
3. Community Meeting Recap
4. Floor Plan Update
5. Interior Design Progress
6. Exterior Design Progress
7. Next Steps
8. Q&A Discussion
The presentation slides and video recording are available on the BPL website, South End Library, South End Branch Project Page https://www.bpl.org/south-end-project/
Here’s a breakdown of segments in the video:
6:42 Introductions completed
7:00 Project schedule chart
10:34 Recap of previous meetings completed
10:37 Review of sustainability initiatives
12:28 Building footprint review
12:32 Review of building program
13:30 Floor plans – entrance details and size included
22:19 Interior design progress
28:14 Exterior design progress including review of proposed signage
32:45 Next steps – construction documentation & bidding process
33:55 Questions & comments
HIGHLIGHTS
We highly recommend you review the slides to see the renderings of the new building which will give you a sense of the design and compatibility with the adjacent streets.
Timeline
After introductions and agenda Brett Bentson of Utile presented the project timeline (slide 5) indicating a twelve-month design phase consisting of Schematic Design, Design Development, and Construction Documentation. We are entering the Construction Documentation part of that phase which will take place over the Fall/Winter of 2025 (slide 36); he estimated 24-30 months to doors opening.
Budget
A FOSEL board member asked about the approval of the city’s capital budget for 2026, which is in process and includes $32.5M for this building project. {On June 9th it was approved by the City Council and the loan orders for the Capital Plan need two votes spread 14 days apart (per the city charter), so the first vote is passed, and the second vote will be on June 25. This info added after the meeting through contact with the City Council.}
Landmarks Commission
The design has been presented to the Landmarks Commission on an advisory basis. It was received positively and Utile was given a homework assignment regarding several details. They expect to return to the Commission in the next few weeks and expressed a desire for community support/advocacy for the design.
Sustainability
The sustainability goal of the building is Leeds Silver Certification which includes being solar ready and using no fossil fuels. Solar panels will not be installed immediately (presumably for budget reasons).
Parking
Due to the building footprint expansion into the alley, there will no longer be staff parking spaces alongside the building. This is the case for many city branch locations and has been accepted by the current library staff. A question arose about people in cars being able to park temporarily on Tremont St to drop off books; this remains an open question.
South End History Collection
In response to a participant question, Priscilla gave a brief update on plans to meet with Paul Wright the lead for the SEHC at the Central Library to discuss plans for the collection. When questioned further, Priscilla indicated it will have a visible presence in the new branch’s adult area, with display possibilities and signage.
Entrance
Several questions and comments were raised about the entrance on Tremont St. Some people expressed satisfaction that the connections to Tremont Street and the park have been achieved. With an eight-foot width to the elevator vestibule and a corresponding entrance from the street, concerns about a potential backup at the elevator seem to be alleviated.
Graphic Elements, Art Gallery, Window Shades, Signage
In answer to a question about mural or graphic elements, we learned the City Art Department is in collaboration with BPL and Utile. Art gallery space inside will be available for temporary exhibits with installed picture rails in the community room. Motorized window shades will be used to help maintain a comfortable environment inside while still providing plenty of natural light. An attendee requested a way to share information with people walking by about what exhibits and art are available inside (in the event we are unable to exhibit Local/Focus through a window).
Library of Things
Regarding a Library of Things, the staff workroom will have storage for various items which will be available at the branch. For more information about what items, contact Priscilla Foley at BPL. pfoley@bpl.org
Compost Bins Location
The location of the compost bins is still being considered; one attendee requested that residents from Rutland and Newton Streets should participate in the decision about the new location.
Summary of 5th Community Meeting
BPL & Utile Host 5th Community Meeting February 10, 2025
Attended by more than 60 people, the fifth community meeting offered more detailed preliminary designs for our new library. It was hosted by BPL staff and facilitated by Utile, our architectural firm, with attendance by members of the Public Facilities Department, representatives from the City Councilors’ offices and the Mayor’s office, and many community members.
A recording of the meeting and the presentation slides are available on the South End Library page of the BPL website here.
Using the format from previous meetings, Utile summarized each of the previous community meetings and then provided revised floor plans with additional details and refinements.
Following the revised floor plans, they gave us a first look at how the building exterior could look from Tremont St, W. Newton S, and Library Park and then initial concepts for the interior of the building including the entrance lobby from the first and second floors and the children’s and adult’s reading areas.
A look at the timeline indicated a 6th Community Meeting sometime before Fall 2025. In the interim considerable design work will take place, refining both the exterior and interior concepts, with the expectation of putting the design out for construction bids in the fall, and construction starting at the end of the year and continuing for 18-24 months before completion/occupancy.
Questions & Comments from Attendees covered a wide range of topics:
· Concerns about the location of the Zero Waste Oscar Bins being inappropriate for the front of an important public building and a suggestion that these bins should not be the sole receptacles for the whole South End. Data supporting the high usage of the bins by residents reinforced the need. Response: Discussions are going on with the appropriate departments and the Zero Waste staff about how best to roll out this pilot program. Utile is considering how to accommodate this compost service while these discussions take place.
· What is the nature of the three staff spaces? Response: Space is allocated for facilities equipment, such as snowblower and other implements, a work room for staff to manage materials, a staff lunchroom, and a Friends storage space.
· Community members had previously voiced a desire to engage more directly from the building to the park and this design represents a lost opportunity for that, despite the good visual connection via windows. Response: For security reasons and issues with the flood plain elevation, there will be only one entrance to the building.
· Do we really need the phone nook? Response: Community members have expressed the desire for a variety of space sizes, including the phone nook, for activities such as interviews or health related inquiries, which in other branches have been well used.
· Will the community room be able to hold musical performances, PowerPoint presentations and will there be accessible parking on the street? Response: There will be presentation equipment, and the room will be acoustically designed for concerts, films, etc. Details regarding street interaction/accessibility and the blue bikes have not been worked out yet, although there are no plans at this moment to move the blue bike station.
· What type of restrooms are being considered? Response: All the restrooms will be gender neutral with closed toilet rooms and open sink areas.
· Previously, community members expressed their desires for a third floor to avoid encroachment into the alley and the park, to promote ease of wayfinding and use of the building, and for various types of programming, such as nutritional education. The issue of internal ease of use has been solved, however, the left side of the building (entrance, ramp, borrowers’ desk) needs more work. It doesn’t foster the integration between inside and outside sufficiently. Perhaps there’s a way to improve this.
· Additionally, the building seems quite “serious” and needs more “fun.” Perhaps this can be handled by furnishings. The exterior is hard-edged; perhaps it could be made softer to reflect more of the neighborhood aesthetic. Response: The next phase of the design work will focus more on the details of both the interior and the exterior. Gratitude was expressed for these comments/suggestions.
· One community member asked about the comparatively small size of the teen area to the adult and children’s areas and was concerned about the poor reading scores of Boston’s public-school children. Response: Not all activities for teens will be held in this dedicated area. For example, SAT preparation classes that are held in other branches will also be held in the SEL branch in the community room or the multipurpose room. All people will have access to the whole library; the space for teens is meant as a designated space for teens to do homework, read, relax, and research.
Recent BPL Trustees Meeting February 4th 2025
Recent Board of Trustees Meeting
The most recent Trustees’ meeting was held at Honan-Allston Branch on 2/4/25. As part of the trustees’ desire to engage with branches and patrons, the trustees were welcomed by Carin O’Connor, Branch Librarian and Sarah Markell, Vice President of the Friends. The slides introduced all the staff, shared information about library circulation, programming and provided remarks from the Friends. You can review them here.
President Leonard’s primary focus was BPL’s newly finalized Strategic Plan implementation and rollout plans. The plan identifies four major BPL strategic roles: Lifelong learning and research partner, welcoming destination, community engager, and trusted resource. Within those overarching roles, 15 goals have been identified with 86 initiatives for which a roadmap will be created.
Operationally, BPL currently has 495 full time and part time employees with 49 vacancies. An overview of the budgeting process was presented including an overall timeline for the process. Among other capital expenses $2.5M is allocated for the South End Library project for the FY26-29. Presumably additional money for construction of the new building will be allocated when the construction phase is more imminent, likely late in 2025 when cost estimates will be available.
You can access the agenda, slides, meeting materials here.
2025 SE Library Author Series for Spring
Once again our FOSEL board member, Sara DiVello has confirmed an excellent author and book lineup for our Spring author series.
Starting on February 26th we will host Nicole Treska, Boston native and author of a memoir, Wonderland, about being raised in a mob family in the days of Whitey Bulger.
The second in the series on March 26th features Abbott Kahler, author of Eden Undone, a remarkable and true story involving murder and an attempt at utopia in the Galapagos.
Our final author event for Spring on April 23rd will be author Dr. Saumya Dave, NY psychiatrist whose most recent novel is titled The Guilt Pill, a book which explores women’s challenges to “do it all” without guilt and the unintended consequences.
These will be fun, stimulating events enhanced by refreshments book signings, and book sales by Parkside Booksellers, our own SE independent book store.
BPL Hosts 4th South End Library Community Meeting on December 4th
The 4th Community Meeting hosted by BPL and facilitated by Utile, the architectural firm charged with designing the new branch, was held virtually on December 4th and attended by more than 80 people including BPL staff, City Public Facilities Department staff, representatives from City Councilors’ offices, our South End Liaison to the Mayor’s office, team members/presenters from Utile, their landscape partner firm Arcadis, and many members of the community.
A recording of the meeting and the presentation slides are available on the South End Library page of the BPL website found here.
Project Schedule
After the welcomes and introduction, Brett Bentson, project lead from Utile, shared the agenda which included the schedule for the project indicating we have entered the 12-month Design Phase to be followed by the Construction Phase, typically 20-24 months.
Claudia Porras of Utlle recapped the previous three community meetings for any attendees who are new to the project. Slides and recordings of these can be found on the South End Branch of the BPL website mentioned above.
The Park/Landscaping
In reviewing their approach to Library Park, James Kros of Arcadis, Utile’s landscape partner, explained they plan to preserve as it is with two exceptions: expansion of nine feet into the park toward Rutland Street and three and a half feet into the alley to accommodate a somewhat larger building footprint. Kros shared a diagram of service truck access via the alley and indicated that these footprint expansions will not affect existing access to the alley.
The arborists report the trees are in good condition and they want to preserve the current vegetation and continuity of materials. Plans include expanded seating (some paving changes required by the new building footprint), the planting of a magnolia tree at the new entrance, and plantings on the alley-side in place of the current sidewalk with potted trees. There is no plan to move/change the fences.
The park will have to be closed during construction. To protect it during this phase, there will be chain link fenced zones to separate mechanical vs manual earthwork areas for preservation of trees, roots, and the irrigation system which is still in use. FOSEL will need to provide them with “as built” drawings of the irrigation system.
Shadow Analysis
Presentation of a shadow analysis of the proposed building for our four annual seasons indicated there will be no meaningful increase of shadows in the neighborhood.
Floor Plans
Porras shared the preliminary floor plans noting a 40% overall increase in space distributed across various areas such as the community room, the collection/reading zones, and central services. The entrance door will face Tremont Street, and visually communicate its presence. Just inside there will be a ramp of two and a half feet to bring the first floor up to the required flood zone level. An elevator will be available just inside the door to bring people to either the first or second floor, where they will be greeted by staff stationed on both floors.
A significantly enlarged community room (double the current room with 104 seating capacity) and a large children’s room will occupy the first floor with the children’s area facing Tremont Street and the community room backed up to the wall adjacent to the alley. Community members asked that attention be paid to balancing safety/security of the children with the desire to allow visibility in and out of the library through windows facing the street. The Community Room will have storage, a sink, and water available, but there will be no kitchen facilities in the new building. This is disappointing to FOSEL, particularly because the branch has a long history of including food at its programs.
The teen space will be on the second floor along with the adult collection/ reading areas adjacent to a staff desk so that these spaces can be properly monitored for safety and civility.
There is a third floor that consists of space for mechanical and electrical equipment and a staff storage area for library materials.
Sustainability
The overall goal is LEED Silver which is defined as a recognition of the project's initial steps toward minimizing its environmental impact. (Silver 50-59 points. The Silver certification level indicates that a project has surpassed the basic LEED requirements, achieving more than 50% of the available points.)
Specific goals mentioned include all electric (no fossil fuels), roof-ready for solar panels which will be installed after final construction, highly insulated structure, triple-glazed windows, and storm water capture to underground chambers for preserving wood piling foundations in the neighborhood. Demand Ventilation based on room occupancy will be used for spaces within the building to ensure efficient use of HVAC.
Q & A
What about a food pantry? Some branch locations have this capacity, it was not yet clear if SEL would have this.
Art display is important and there will be walls and picture rails that will allow for this. Rotating art exhibits are desirable.
Natural light is crucial and there will be lots of visual connections to the park, as well as from the outside to enable people to see what’s going on inside. The façade on Tremont Street will have windows with natural light along the street and along the park. The entrance will be visually evident from all angles and welcoming.
The SE History Collection will be housed in the adult area and easily accessible to patrons. Currently it has been moved to Central where Paul Wright can meet with Melissa Andrews, Collections Director, to help assess what’s there and how it might be made available in the new building. The hope is for local authors and history materials to be “front and center” at the branch.
What about a Library of Things? Central and other branches are incorporating this concept. Foley mentioned telescopes and sewing machines as examples and suggested community members access the link on the branch web page to offer suggestions/ideas for what might be included in this exciting concept. https://www.bpl.org/library-of-things/
Utile explained in more detail how the bathrooms will be set up. Both floors will have all-gender bathrooms which include two fully private, accessible ADA rooms plus individual private toilet rooms, and communal sinks. In the children’s area there will be a family bathroom accessed within that space.
There will be additional community meetings as the design progresses, although no specific target dates were identified.
Summary of BPL Trustees Meeting on 11/19/24
Board of Trustees
The Boston Public Library Board of Trustees oversees the Library’s operating and administrative policies, votes on and establishes Library policy, sets the institution’s strategic goals, and acts as an agent of public trust governing the Library. Trustees are appointed by the Mayor of Boston. (from BPL website)
At the Mattapan Branch Chairperson Raymond Liu opened the meeting, shared the BPL Diversity Statement and initiated a vote on the minutes of the last meeting which passed. He also highlighted that the meeting would focus on the final draft of the BPL Strategic Plan with discussion and feedback by the trustees. On December 4 it will be voted on by the board.
President’s Report
Maurice Gordon, Branch Librarian, opened with slides and a description of library activities and service at the branch. He shared pictures of staff and mentioned that the Friends of Mattapan Branch had restarted after a long hiatus.
President Leonard introduced new staff:
Jonathan Eshel, Chief of Operations
Jake Jacevicius, Facilities Manager for Daytime and Trades Staff
Mayor Wu and Chief Jose Masso of Health and Human Services spoke next.
Mayor Wu spoke briefly about the draft Strategic Plan and her delight at its foundational infrastructure for all the City tries to do. She highlighted the four core roles as powerful with specific mentions of services and spaces which lead to being a trusted partner. Earlier in the day she had met with seniors in Mattapan who expressed anxiety about what’s ahead. Mayor Wu shared with us the importance of the BPL as a trusted institution offering a sense of history, engaging with the community and helping to connect people.
Chief Masso spoke about is pleasure at being involved in the work leading up to this point in the plan. Highlighting the “spaces and places” focus in the plan, he spoke about the career fair that took place at the Mattapan Branch last week for returning citizens with several potential employers and many people waiting in line to connect with them. He summed it up by saying that the strategic plan aligns with all we are doing in the city.
Strategic Plan 2025-2030
Christian Westra, Strategic Planning Committee Chair, spoke about the collaborative process that has been underway for the development of a new strategic plan. Trustee Jose Masso stated his gratitude for the broad input to the plan, inclusive of all stakeholders
High level review of the Strategic Plan by Margaret Sullivan of Margaret Sullivan Studio and Erin Corcoran of Gensler.
Starting with the question “Who are we?”, Margaret Sullivan led off with three key points:
· BPL is free to all
· Good strategy comes from strengths
· Strategy for social impact is a relatively new industry that involves learning together
Erin Corcoran provided context stating that the role of the Library has changed since its founding. It has developed strengths and uncovered challenges. Its core value of “Free to All” drives a variety of others such as discovery, learning, exploring, imagining, connecting, creating, reading, thinking, and choosing.
These drive the Vision: curiosity, inclusivity, connection, pursuit of knowledge, and the Mission: discovery and learning to enrich every life.
Integral to the new plan are BPL Strategic Roles:
· lifelong learning and research partner,
· welcoming destination,
· trusted resource, and
· community engager.
As a lifelong learning and research partner, BPL will hold a focus on youth.
Destinations will be inclusive, embrace diversity and be future-ready to support our evolving communities. Part of this will be reimagining the McKim Building as a vibrant library space.
As a trusted resource, its focus will be truth and knowledge, through a partnership model integrating communities, and empowering digital access.
As a community engager, BPL will need to better understand its communities’ needs by amplifying community voices, and providing data- informed outreach, programs, and services. It will also foster civic engagement.
Trustees expressed gratitude for the inclusion, structure, and clarity of the plan. President Leonard stated there will be a 3–6-month period for implementation planning; the first year will be the first year’s work so that staff can live the values more deeply, understand the details involved in living the initiatives, and engage in effective project management.
A concern was raised about the Special Collections not being highlighted sufficiently in the plan.
Mayor Wu and Chief Masso will be important advocates to ensure connection with others in City Government.
To support the plan fundraising is key, in general, and specifically, regarding the McKim space. BPL needs to move from a transaction model to a transformational model. Trustees can help enable the plan by supporting this shift and staying engaged early on regarding the priorities.
In response to how EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) will be integrated into the plan, President Leonard indicated BPL will be taking EDI into its next steps by consideration in all initiatives developed from this Strategic Plan.
The Trustees’ questions and feedback will be considered in the finalization of the plan and its board vote on December 13, 2024.
Finance & Audit
Evelyn Arana-Ortiz, chairwoman of the committee, announced that NEPC, BPL’s investment consultant just got acquired by another firm, so they are on the committee’s watch list, although the portfolio is doing quite well.
Chief Financial Officer, Emily Tokarczyk gave a rundown of the fiscal year Gift Report which is a small part of the total revenues. She also explained the new policy on Foreign Wire Transfers and the trustees voted to approve it.
New Business
Trustee Julie Kim, President of the U.S. Business Unit, U.S. Country Head and member of Takeda’s Executive Team, was acknowledged for her recent Pinnacle Award.
Public Comments
Alice Lee, Board Chair of the BPL Associates acknowledged good work on the strategic plan and looks forward to the implementation and amplification of themes such as Women’s Black History,
Elissa Cadillic, AFSCME President, expressed happiness that this Strategic Plan is holistic and will help to minimize siloes. She acknowledged it will take funding for positions and funding for systems, giving an example of a management system.
Joseph Eubanks, representing neighborhood associations, emphasized that the Eggleston Branch Library must be completed on time.
Janice McManus spoke of BPL as the oldest and largest library and the importance or literacy given her ancestors’ life on plantations. Her specific statement “We don’t know where Mr. Knight is”, presumably refers to Librarian Knight of the Roxbury Branch who has been on leave.
On December 13, the trustees will vote on the Strategic Plan. The next regular Trustees Meeting will be January 28 at Honan Allston at 3pm.
Exciting South End Library Fall Author Series
October in the South End was a fun month for fans of fascinating books! Friends of the South End Library (FOSEL) sponsored author talks with four authors who shared insights from their recent books.
On October 15th we hosted best-selling author, Dawn Tripp who spoke about her latest achievement, Jackie, an historical novel about the “inside” woman, how the thought and felt.
Two acclaimed authors: Danielle Trussoni, writer of The Puzzle Box, and Adam Sikes, who wrote The Underhanded were with us on October 23rd with Sara DiVello, FOSEL board member and author herself of Broadway Butterfly, who hosted a stimulating and entertaining conversation with both authors.
Our final session for the series on October 30th was perfect for the spooky season, The Poisoner’s Handbook, a non-fiction work written by Deborah Blum, a Pulitzer prize-winner who heads the science journalism department at MIT.
All three book events were held at the Union Church at 485 Columbus Ave, a wonderful, iconic venue, central to the South End with caring staff, and lovely space for both authors and audiences. We were delighted to have Parkside Bookshop, our new independent bookstore on Shawmut, with us to offer books for sale and signing.
Many audience members expressed their desire and hope for more of these fun events that included refreshments of wine, sparkling water, and yummy snacks. If you attended, we are grateful for your presence and enthusiasm, and if you missed these, get FOSEL on your radar, as we are thinking about plans for 2025.