Hubbardston Public Library trustees voted to approve a three-month trial collaboration to host a monthly two-hour pop-up food pantry run by a Gardner-area community action organization.

Library staff reported conversations with a community engagement person from the regional organization (identified in the meeting materials as the Gardner Community Action entity) that operates food-security programs, senior assistance and other services across multiple towns. The partner would provide food, setup and management; the library’s role would be to provide space, minor setup assistance (for example, two tables) and advertising support.

Trustees supported the idea as a way to reach broader populations than programs hosted at the senior center. Discussion covered location within the building (staff suggested the lower level so people would not have to carry items up the front steps), accessibility concerns related to basement stairs, and the need to avoid placing extra staffing burden on library employees.

Trustees agreed the partner would provide flyers and suggested joint promotion via the library’s social platforms, the town listserv and the senior center. Several trustees asked the library director to obtain a formal letter and meet with town public-health officials as needed; trustees noted the partner typically proposed a monthly two-hour distribution and suggested a three-month pilot period to evaluate demand and logistics.

The trustees moved to approve the collaboration and trial and the motion carried. Trustees asked staff to coordinate scheduling and supply a checklist for public-health and accessibility considerations prior to the first event.

Ending: The pilot was approved; staff will coordinate details with the partner organization and return to trustees with a report after the trial period.