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The Friends of the Goodnow Library

Because every great library needs good friends

Who we are

The Friends of the Goodnow Library is an independent, nonprofit
​501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to enhancing library services in the town of Sudbury, MA. The Friends are an all-volunteer group of supporters who believe that a vibrant public library makes a difference in the lives of Sudbury’s citizens. Membership is open to anyone who is interested in supporting the library. 

Incorporated in 1988, the Friends organization has provided essential funding and other support for the library for more than 30 years. During that time, the Friends have contributed more than $1.25 million to the library, funding many of most popular services the library offers.

The Friends are severed from the Goodnow Library at this time.

What we did for the Goodnow Library

The Friends supported library programs, raised funds for equipment and resources, volunteered for projects, and promoted community engagement with the library. Our efforts funded some of the library’s most highly valued offerings:
  • Passes to 16 museums and other area attractions.
  • Cultural programs like concerts, dance, and opera.
  • Author programs.
  • Cooking programs.
  • Summer reading programs for adults, teens, and children.
  • Art programs.
  • Writing workshops.
  • The library's movie license.
  • A subscription to BookPage.
  • Essential equipment such as copy machines and supplies, the RIFD checkout systems, and the book drop.

The Friends also supported the library in a variety of other ways, including:
  • Contribution of funds such as the Build for the Future Capital Campaign.
  • Funding of a discretionary budget for the library director.
  • Improvements such as furnishings for the remodeled Community Gathering Space.
  • Planting and maintenance of the library entry gardens.

MEET OUR BOARD

2024-2025 Board of Directors
President: Alice Levine
Vice President: Susan Pettit
Clerk: Lisa Cornacchia
Treasurer: Laura Dowling
Programs: Claudia Brandon
Membership: Barbara Cook
Fundraising: Maria Dawson
At Large: Mary “Pat” Scott

Why our work mattered

The Friends helped ensure that the Goodnow Library remained a vital community resource. Most people don’t realize that the town budget does not fully fund library programs. In fact, many of the most popular library programs and resources would not be possible without support from the Friends.

The Goodnow Library is not simply a repository for books. It is a gathering place that enhances the quality of community life. It provides free and open access to information and services. It advances knowledge, fosters creativity, and encourages the exchange of ideas. Help us help the library keep our community strong.  

How you can help

The Friends raised funds through membership dues, donations, book sales, and special fundraising events such as Teamwork Trivia night.

We relied on community participation to provide the support our library needs to remain a vibrant cultural and education center for Sudbury.

We look forward to doing this again.

You can help the Friends by supporting our return to the library.