Earlier this year we learned the longstanding Friends of the Southborough Library was in danger of folding due to lack of participation. Southborough residents heeded the call for new members and the group had a big enough turnout at their June meeting to elect new officers.
The group meets again tonight to plan their priorities for the upcoming year. New members are still being accepted, and all are encouraged to attend. Here are more details in a press release from the Friends:
Beth Melo was elected president of the Friends of the Southborough Library at the group’s last meeting on June 20th. Ms. Melo was delighted by the many new faces at the meeting. “Our library is a terrific resource for Southborough,” said Ms. Melo, “but it needs strong support to deliver quality programs. The more a community puts into its library, the more it gets out of it. After 40 years, this wonderful organization was in danger of folding. Now, with the revitalization of our membership, I am confident that we can continue the excellent work of our founders.”
Assisting Ms. Melo will be Vice President Nicole De Bonet, Treasurer Prudence Webster, Corresponding Secretary Valerie Lefavour and Recording Secretary Lois Seltzer. Ms. Melo said of the new board, “I’m happy that it reflects our membership. In addition to active seniors, there has been an influx of mothers of young children, like myself.”
The new board’s first steps will be to solidify the Friends’ priorities and determine what fundraising is required to meet these goals. This discussion will take place at the next meeting, July 18th at 7:30 at Southborough Library.
Ms. Melo explained, “Traditionally, Friends has taken the summer off. This summer we want to capitalize on the rejuvenated interest. We will need active participation to make the organization work. We had overwhelming support to continue working over the summer. I hope to see everyone from the previous meeting and new members as well.”
To learn more about the Friends, contact Beth Melo, at 508.787.0061 or becmelo@yahoo.com.
