Trustees discussed a temporary display of a hand-carved wooden eagle that facilities placed in the library front room. The director said the sculpture, likely carved around 1982, had been left at the old historical society location; the society declined it and facilities installed it at the library while staff were not present.

"The intention was not to upset people or make people feel uncomfortable," Ryan said, adding staff reported the eagle made them uneasy because of its placement. He said facilities has confirmed the piece can be removed and that John (facilities) and others are willing to relocate it.

Multiple trustees said they appreciated the craftsmanship but agreed staff comfort and the library's collection criteria should guide acceptance of donated objects. A trustee with museum/curatorial experience offered to inspect the object before a formal decision; other trustees proposed a temporary home at Town Hall in Mark Purple's office or pursuing placement with other local organizations.

By the end of the discussion trustees indicated a decision to remove the eagle from the library and relocate it to another town space or an alternative home rather than keep it on display in the public reading area.

What happens next: Ryan said facilities will remove the eagle and place it in the agreed alternative location, and Ryan will ensure trustees are informed if the object becomes a permanent accession requiring board consideration.