The Goodnow Library Foundation:
A Little Bit of History
Dear Supporters,
We write today in light of the Goodnow Library Board of Trustees’ decision on Tuesday evening to end the Library’s working relationship with the Friends of the Goodnow Library organization.
The Friends of Goodnow and the Goodnow Library Foundation (GLF) are, and have always been, separate entities. The GLF was formed as a charitable organization in 2008 by the Trustees of the Library. The Trustees recognized the urgent need to provide an additional source of revenue for the growing demands of Goodnow in the 21st century – capital improvements, technology upgrades, and physical refurbishments and renovations. Since then, the GLF has been supported by various funding sources including private gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporate partners. These gifts are more important than ever as the Library’s expenses continue to grow.
In recent years we have funded the Children’s Room makeover, the creation of the first-floor Community Gathering Space, and the complete upgrade of all public-use library computers. Thanks to generous community support, our most recent project was the reimagining of the second floor of the Library. The renovation showcases an open floor plan with public workspaces, laptop counters, charging stations, and a redesigned area just for teens. In addition, we created the Sara Sherman NOW Lab, an innovative makerspace. The NOW Lab brings together community members of all ages to participate in hands-on learning and fosters problem-solving through tinkering and creativity.
The Goodnow Library Foundation also introduced its “Be Bold Speaker Series” in 2017 as a forum for sharing viewpoints and inspiring conversation and discussion. These evenings have focused on a range of topics from art and science, to travel, parenting, and climate change. We continue to host these popular events, albeit virtually, with the theme of “Get Outdoors" featuring speakers from Sudbury Valley Trustees, Mass Audubon, and Aurelia’s Garden in Wayland.
The Goodnow Library Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to working in tandem with the Library Director Esmé Green, Library Trustees, and Sudbury town officials. It continues to focus on capital projects, events, and activities tied to the Library’s mission and long-range goals.
We look forward to continuing our very important role of providing this extra margin of excellence for Goodnow – our town treasure and community hub – and we thank you sincerely for your continued support. To learn more, please find us online HERE. Or contact the Foundation’s Director of Development, Holly Bernene, at (978) 440-5562 or at goodnowlibraryfoundation@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
The Goodnow Library Foundation Board of Directors
