The Southborough Library Board of Trustees meeting on July 14, 2025, highlighted ongoing community efforts and financial considerations that directly impact local residents. A key focus was the library's diaper drive, which has seen a modest start with four donations so far. While initial concerns about overwhelming contributions were raised, it appears that community awareness of the initiative is still developing. A teen volunteer has created a progress bar to visually track donations, and members of the local Rotary Club have pledged to contribute in the coming months. The library is actively marketing the drive to encourage more participation, recognizing that familiarity with the organization may influence donation levels.
In addition to the diaper drive, the trustees reviewed the library's expense report. This year, the library slightly exceeded its budget by $3.85, primarily due to unexpected costs associated with the Hoopla service, which allows patrons to check out digital materials. The board discussed the rising demand for Hoopla, noting that many new library cardholders are signing up specifically for this service. While the library aims to keep monthly expenses under control, the trustees are considering whether to allocate additional funds to meet the growing demand without restricting patron access.
The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the library's initiatives and a commitment to monitoring expenses closely. As the library continues to adapt to community needs, both the diaper drive and the management of digital resources like Hoopla reflect its dedication to serving Southborough residents effectively.