Hubbardston library director reports steady September use; trustees approve seeking quotes for children's shelving and outreach materials

Christine Barbera, Hubbardston Public Library director, summarized September 2025 activity and attendance and asked trustees for direction on two equipment purchases: additional children's rolling bookcases to expand picture-book shelving, and a branded pop-up (easy-up) tent and table coverings for outreach events.

The director reported: 378 curbside pickups; two in-library classes totaling 42 student visits; 107 story-time attendees (49 adults, 58 children); four story-time events; five new physical library cards issued; Facebook reach of 2,859 and 1,087 page followers; 37 Wi-Fi connections; 11,525 total items in the library collection for September; 775 OverDrive (digital) checkouts; and 344 holds on OverDrive (e-audio and e-books combined). Barbera noted the library was closed on Labor Day.

On equipment, Barbera asked trustees for permission to seek a quote from the vendor who supplied the library's existing rolling bookcases for two additional matching units to relieve crowding of picture books during the school year. Trustees recommended funding from either the state account or the library's donation account rather than the municipal operating budget; Barbera said she would return with a firm quote and identify the funding source.

Trustees also discussed purchasing a pop-up tent (an "easy up") with the library logo and a matching table skirt or table covering for use at the road race, field day and other outreach events. Trisha (volunteer/partner) offered to produce a logo applique for a less expensive option; trustees asked Barbera to obtain pricing for both a commercially printed tent and the cheaper option involving a locally produced logo covering.

No formal purchase was made at the meeting. Trustees gave staff direction to obtain quotes and return with cost options and funding recommendations at a subsequent meeting.