Library Trustees Approve RFP Push for Lower-Level Renovation

HUBBARDSTON -- December 4, 2025, Hubbardston Library Trustees greenlight a request for proposals for the library's lower-level renovation, targeting a mid-December release with bids due January 10, 2026. The board voted unanimously at its December 4 meeting to authorize the working group, which includes Library Director Christine Barbara and a staff collaborator identified as Travis, to finalize and submit the RFP, which covers demolition of an interior partition, mold remediation, environmental testing, electrical and plumbing upgrades, floor refinishing, and ADA review. A $40,000 Community Preservation Committee grant covers the demolition and structural scope; remaining costs would draw on library trust funds. The board also endorsed a minimum FY27 budget submission of $91,927, the state-mandated floor for maintaining Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners certification, while directing Barbara to explore a higher figure that would fund additional programming hours for staff in anticipation of expanded use once the lower level is complete; the budget is due to the town by January 5, 2026.