Goshen Library Board Welcomes New Director Philip Armentrout

1/21/2026, 4 PM

Present: Board President Anne Green, Kristen Durso, Henrietta Horvay, Lynette Miller, Rebecca Prause, and Patricia Sanders

The Library Board began its regular meeting with the approval of the minutes, which passed with minor corrections. Motions to approve and accept the revised minutes were made by Miller and seconded by Green.

The Board then welcomed newly appointed Library Director Philip Armentrout, who offered a brief overview of his professional background and commented that he was “getting his feet wet” and “not trying to come in here and make too many waves” as he begins his tenure. In response to questions about how the public is informed about library programs, Armentrout said it was unclear, noting that not all library card holders receive email communications. Durso raised concerns about outreach, stating, “We need to get the word out,” and asked for specific follow-up. A motion to add a discussion of how programs are communicated to the next meeting agenda was made by Rebecca Prause, seconded by Green, and approved.

The Director’s Report was later accepted on a motion by Miller, seconded by Prause.

During the meeting, First Selectman Seth Breakell addressed broader concerns about the town’s social media presence, saying it was an issue beyond the library and that he was working to improve it townwide. He said he would coordinate those efforts with Armentrout.

No written president’s report was presented. Green thanked Lynn Steinmeyer for her assistance during the transition period between library directors. Steinmeyer continues to support Armentrout, prompting Miller to note, “she’s still on the payroll … that’s another issue, we had never formalized … the number of hours.” Breakell said he planned to meet with Steinmeyer regarding the transition and described the associated cost as “miniscule,” adding that she was not billing the town for text messages or phone calls. 

The Treasurer’s Report was accepted following a motion by Horvay, seconded by Durso.

Durso also reported on efforts to increase community engagement, including collaboration with the game club at Lakeview High School (Litchfield) to develop intergenerational programming with senior residents. She said she would continue working with Armentrout on plans for an escape room at the library, with frequency and transportation still to be determined. Miller moved that Armentrout provide an update at the next meeting; the motion was seconded by Prause and approved.

Breakell updated the Board on budget timelines, noting the library budget was due Feb. 3rd. He said the Director’s salary had been determined to be below market rate and asked the Board to “try to be aware of spots that you could [save some money]” given the increase in that line item.

Under New Business, Miller raised questions about telephone protocols and suggested staff identify themselves when answering calls. She also mentioned that some libraries require staff to wear name tags, which Armentrout noted is common in larger libraries. Prause asked about the status of library computers; Armentrout said he was compiling a list of concerns to review with the service provider.