The Hubbardston Library Trustees meeting on September 7, 2025, focused on the establishment of a "Friends of the Library" group, a critical step towards enhancing community support and fundraising efforts for the library. The discussion highlighted the challenges of securing volunteers and legal assistance necessary for forming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Trustee members expressed frustration over difficulties in reaching local attorneys for guidance on the legal process. After contacting three law firms, only one responded, leading to a scheduled consultation with the Liz Reinhardt law firm in Worcester. The trustees emphasized the importance of having a committed point person to handle the legal paperwork, which includes obtaining a physical address for the organization.

The estimated costs for setting up the nonprofit were discussed, with legal fees potentially reaching thousands of dollars, while state paperwork costs were expected to be around $500. The trustees noted that having a 501(c)(3) status would open doors for grants and corporate matching donations, significantly boosting fundraising capabilities.

Two individuals, Whitney and Donna, expressed willingness to take on leadership roles as president and treasurer, respectively. The group acknowledged the historical attempts to establish a Friends group, which had previously failed due to lack of organization and legal status.

In a proactive move, the trustees proposed a budget of up to $4,000 to cover legal fees and associated costs, with funding sourced from the library's donation account. This decision aims to expedite the formation of the Friends group, which is seen as vital for future library events and fundraising initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to follow up on the legal consultation and to continue discussions on the library's operational needs, including securing the library's premises and completing staff evaluations. The establishment of the Friends of the Library is viewed as a promising step towards fostering community engagement and support for the library's mission.