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Friends of the Malden Public Library present 2026 calendar and outreach plans
Summary
The Friends of the Malden Public Library outlined their 2026 events calendar and community outreach strategy, describing pop-up sales, gallery open houses, a wine-tasting fundraiser and partnerships that fund library wish-list items and museum passes.
Hwee Nguyen, outgoing president of the Friends of the Malden Public Library, presented the group’s 2026 calendar and described efforts to expand outreach through pop-up book sales, a Friends Gallery Open House and periodic book-room open days that keep books circulating in the community. Nguyen said the Friends are a separate nonprofit that supports Malden Public Library programs and services and that all proceeds go to the library’s initiatives.
Nguyen reviewed recurring events and partnerships that helped rebuild the organization after COVID, including collaborations with Emmanuel Baptist Church for Black History Month, Malden Pride, the North Shore Hispanic Association and the Malden Fire and Police departments for spring and fall book sales. She introduced board members including vice president Melissa LaPlant, treasurer Maryann Browning and membership chair Sheila Taymor. The Friends also plan a wine-tasting gala fundraiser with a silent auction; Nguyen said attendance grew from about 125 to 190 and this year’s event expects roughly 200 attendees.
Councilors asked how Friends funding is spent. Nguyen said the Friends maintain a bank account; at monthly meetings the library presents a wish list and the Friends vote to fund items such as program snacks, craft materials, books and museum pass purchases. The council heard that some proceeds support a mini free library in a local coffee truck and that the Friends intend to increase community-facing events to reach new audiences.
The Friends emphasized volunteer recruitment and inclusivity—Nguyen said the board has broadened its membership and added younger volunteers. Councilors thanked the group for its work and for supporting programs that benefit children and families. The presentation concluded with an offer to provide printed calendars and a website listing for event details.
