The Board of Trustees is the governing body for Forbes Library. The Trustees are responsible for the hiring and evaluation of the director and the oversight of the library budget and policies. As an example, a few years ago Forbes Library eliminated fines after the Trustees voted on and approved this new policy. Trustees also fundraise and advocate for the library. These important roles are filled by seven people, elected by the residents of Northampton in the general election. Four of these seven seats will be on the ballot in November. The term of office is four years and these volunteer positions are open to any registered voter in Northampton.
To be put on the November 4th ballot for library trustee, individuals must take out papers by making an appointment with the City Clerk of Northampton. These papers are available at the City Clerk’s Office in Northampton’s City Hall. Applicants then need to have their papers signed by at least 50 Northampton registered voters and return them to the Registrar’s Office in City Hall by July 21, 2025.
The trustees attend monthly meetings and are asked to serve on working committees. “We seek to have a board that reflects the diversity of the community and who brings their professional expertise and personal experiences to the table. This along with a strong interest in libraries and community service makes for a fantastic trustee,” said Lisa Downing, Library Director.
Anyone interested in learning more about serving as a member of the Forbes Library Board of Trustees is encouraged to contact Library Director Lisa Downing (director@forbeslibrary.org or 413-587-1016) or any of the current Board of Trustees of the library. Individuals from historically underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to run for office. More information is available on the library’s website at http://www.forbeslibrary.org/trustees.