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Forbes and Lilly libraries outline programming, capital work and request higher state aid
Summary
Library directors from Forbes and Lilly presented usage statistics, new programs and capital projects — including a performance stage and a wildflower walkway — and asked councilors to support an increased state aid request for public libraries.
Northampton — Directors from the Forbes and Lilly libraries presented a joint update to the City Council on Feb. 5, outlining visitor numbers, recent projects and an advocacy message for higher state library aid.
Forbes and Lilly reported about 200,000 and 60,000 annual visitors respectively and described outreach such as mobile market partnerships, a new outdoor performance stage and a planned renovation of the Coolidge Museum to expand programming. Directors said they have been coordinating purchases and services to gain economies of scale and that library services now include technology support, notary service, a library of things and expanded teen and youth programming.
Library officials asked the council to support a state budget request for a larger increase in the local aid line — they said their ask was roughly 5% on particular lines (the governor’s budget had recommended a 2% increase) — and highlighted partnerships with local groups and Smith College. Directors also noted free public programming, concentrated outreach to public‑housing sites, and plans to open a new youth programming room in April.
Councilors thanked the directors and asked about hotspot circulation, Wi‑Fi access outside the buildings and how libraries might make recordings of council meetings available for constituents who lack internet access at home. The directors said outreach and device lending would continue to expand.
