Sawyer Free Library Board

Gloucester Lyceum & Sawyer Free Library

Corporate Communications Committee

Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM

As the recent amendments to the open meeting law allows, this Committee will continue to hold meetings remotely. Adequate alternative access to the meeting is provided through the zoom link below.

Via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86018488672 To join by phone: 646-931-3860

Attendance: Fran Aliberte, Christine Armstrong, Jason Brisbois, Cheryl Marks, Library Director Jenny Benedict, Assistant Library Director Lisa Ryan, and guest Julia Brotherton (signed off at 9:20)

Not Present: Dawn Sarrouf

1. Call to order
2. Welcome + Introductions
3. Approval of Minutes from June 9, 2026. Jason abstained and the minutes were approved as presented via roll call.
4. Lyceum Update - Julia a. Julia updated the Committee on a proposal from the gentleman who objected at their May event; he proposed the Lyceum host a second event with Dr. Levitsky and invite a speaker of their choosing with time for his group to present a differing opinion. i. After internal discussion the Committee agreed that they want to move on to other topics and opted, instead, to suggest his group host their own event. As long as their plan meets the guidelines of the Library's Public Spaces policy they are welcome to host the event at the Library. ii. He will attend the Lyceum's August meeting to hear their response. b. Next event: A discussion on Artificial Intelligence. A working group was formed. c. Membership: They had discussed Lyceum membership but have decided on having a mailing list for events and news.
5. Library Programming Update - Lisa a. Lisa offered an update on summer programs for all age levels. So many highlights! b. There was discussion about press releases for programs and updates; one is especially needed for Summer Reading. Tracy Davis had done these in the past. Christine will look for those records. Alexis will work on a draft for a Summer Reading press release. i. Scheduling press releases will be an agenda item for future meetings.
6. Ann-Margaret Ferrante Event Recap a. The event was well-attended. Ann-Margaret's mother was appreciative. There was good follow-up in the Gloucester Daily Times after the event.
7. Spring Appeal Update a. With a few weeks to go we are at $80,000.
8. Art Auction - Christine a. Save the Date and Call for Artists flyers are complete and ready for distribution. b. Sponsorship: We have almost reached our goal of $20,000. c. Christine reached out to artists who contributed last year. Christine provided guidelines for artwork (size, etc) and encouraged Committee members to send leads to her.
9. Legacy Giving - Christine a. A group met with Serena Low to discuss their ideas. She will provide feedback.
10. Next meeting: Tuesday August 11, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
11. 9:50 Adjourn. There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted, Tracy Bowen

Motions Summary n/a

Actions Summary Press releases: - Christine will look for Tracy Davis's press release schedule. - Alexis will work on a draft for a Summer Reading press release. - Scheduling press releases will be an agenda item for future meetings.