Library outlines programming timeline, publicity role for Southborough tricentennial

Ryan Brenneman, the Town of Southborough library director, told the Tricentennial Committee on Jan. 15 that the library can support tricentennial events with programming and publicity but is limited by staffing and its normal planning cycle. “We do public programming about 6 months in advance, so it's a little early for us to have anything sort of plotted out now,” Brenneman said, adding that a part‑time staff member who operates the library’s laser cutter will not return to work until March.

The library director said the library can publicize town events through its newsletter, social media and in‑house bulletin boards if the events include a library component: “We typically reserve it for library events, but if we tie the ... birthday into the library, then it sort of becomes a library event.” Brenneman and committee members discussed using the library’s idea lab for small maker activities (3D printing and laser cutting) once staff train additional employees to operate equipment.

Why it matters: The library reported about 60,000 annual visits, making it one of the busiest public buildings in town and a useful channel for reaching residents. Brenneman said the library’s historical collections and exhibit space could also be incorporated into heritage‑themed tricentennial programming such as a revived Strawberry Social in June, paired with the Friends of the Library’s annual book sale.

Committee members pressed Brenneman on construction timelines after the library failed to win a state grant for an expansion. He said the library is not expecting short‑term construction that would affect 2027 events: “I can almost guarantee now that it won't,” Brenneman said when asked whether the site would be under construction in 2027. He explained the library must wait to reapply for the next grant round, which staff were told could open in either FY27 or FY28 and would require a new letter of intent and a multi‑year application process.

Supporting details: Brenneman described several promotional avenues the library can offer — email lists, in‑building flyers and social posts — and cautioned that use of the library’s newsletter is handled case‑by‑case to protect subscriber expectations. He noted the library’s physical visitor peak months are June through August and that winter months (January–February) are quieter, which affects the timing of in‑person events. Committee members and Brenneman discussed collaboration with the Friends of the Library, local gardening groups (for Art in Bloom) and possible teen volunteer support from St. Mark’s and Algonquin for youth programming such as Girls Who Code.

Historical context and facilities: Brenneman said the original library building was constructed in 1911 and completed in 1912, with an addition finished in 1989. He noted that custodianship of the building and property is governed by the trustees under Massachusetts law; the neighboring pocket park is maintained by the town and would require permission for library use.

What’s next: Brenneman offered to return to future committee meetings as subcommittee plans firm up and encouraged early coordination when a library component is included, because the library plans programs about six months ahead.