Hadley Library Trustees Agree to Map All Funds, Begin Endowment Planning

HADLEY — June 9, 2026 — Hadley Library Trustees agree to map all funds as first step toward a formal endowment. Meeting June 9, the board heard a detailed report from acting chair Joanne on research into how other libraries structure their development efforts, including a recent visit with Ruth Francis, a trustee at the Forbes Library in Northampton and an employee of Keegan and Curran Financial. Trustees concluded that converting the library from a town department to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit was unnecessary, but agreed that Forbes's development subcommittee model — combining trustees, friends representatives, and outside development professionals — was worth adapting. The board's immediate next step is to compile a comprehensive inventory of all library funds, including accounts at the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, town-held gift and legacy trust funds, and annual LIGMAG state aid grants, for presentation at the July 14 meeting. The board also welcomed newly elected trustee Kim, confirmed trustee Jack as the new after-hours emergency contact for public safety, shifted bill authorization to an electronic-signature process, and tabled formal officer elections — including the chair vote — until July 14, when absent trustees Julie and Audrey are expected to attend. Library Director Patrick reported May circulation of 5,533 items and an average of 133 patrons per day, both among the highest figures in library history.