Thank you for your interest in serving on the Friends of Fitchburg Library Board of Directors. 

Our Mission

Friends of the Fitchburg Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting the Fitchburg Public Library through fundraising efforts, volunteer opportunities, partnership, programming, and outreach. We are a grassroots organization that builds pride and a sense of community for Fitchburg Residents. 

Role overview

Board members provide fiduciary oversight, participate in fundraising, promote the library and contribute their skills and expertise through sub-committees and task forces that ultimately serve the Fitchburg library and the Fitchburg community at large. 

Key responsibilities

• Meeting Attendance – Attend monthly board meetings (currently the first Monday evening of each month) and participate actively in discussions and decision‑making. 

• Fundraising and financial stewardship – Support FOFL’s fundraising activities, including book sales and special events. Board members are expected assist with revenue‑raising efforts. They also review financial reports and approve annual budgets.

• Advocacy and outreach – Serve as an ambassador for the Fitchburg Public Library. Promote library programs and FoFL’s mission within your networks and in the community.

• Committee service – Serve on at least one committee or ad‑hoc task force (e.g., book sales, marketing, events). The Friends’ board does much of its work in committees and values hands‑on participation.

• Volunteer engagement – Support initiatives and volunteer for events hosted by the Friends for fundraising, or community events that improve literacy, lifelong learning and equal access to services. 

Desired qualifications

• Passion for public libraries and community service.

• Experience or interest in marketing, event planning, fundraising, or social‑media management.

• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with diverse volunteers, board colleagues and library staff.

• Commitment to attend monthly meetings and contribute additional volunteer hours throughout the year based on events or ongoing promotion.

Time commitment

• Board meetings – one evening meeting each month (first Monday).

• Additional volunteer hours – approximately 5 hours per month for committee work, event planning and outreach. Board members are also asked to attend FoFL’s major events (book sales, summer reading activities, etc.) whenever possible.

• Board Term: Minimum Term Commitment: 1 Term (3 Years), Maximum Consecutive Term Commitment: 2 Terms (6 Years)

Benefits of serving

• Grow your network – Get involved in the community and grow your network through community members, local businesses, volunteers, and other passionate individuals. 

• Develop skills and leadership – Serving on a board provides an opportunity to hone or develop skills such as governance, fundraising, public speaking, marketing, and strategic planning. Many volunteers find that running committees or projects gives them leadership experience they can add to their résumé.

• Make a tangible impact – FoFL board members help ensure the library can offer programs like the Summer Reading Program and book sales that benefit the entire community. There is enormous satisfaction in fostering literacy, lifelong learning and equal access to resources.

• Personal fulfillment – Board service allows you to give back to the community, share your expertise and make meaningful contributions to a beloved institution. Volunteers often report that the pride gained from helping others is the greatest reward.

How to apply

If you are excited about public libraries and can bring skills in marketing, event coordination, fundraising or social media, FOFL would love to hear from you. Please prepare a brief statement explaining why you are interested in the board and highlighting your relevant experience. Email us at fofl@friendsoffitchburglibrary.com for more information about upcoming vacancies and the application process.