The role of public libraries in protecting access to books and information gets some attention next week as the Worcester Public Library Foundation holds its annual meeting at the downtown library.
Carol Rose, executive director of the ACLU of Massachusetts, discusses the freedom to read and access information during the Sept. 17 program at the Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem Square.
The free event, scheduled from 6 to 7:30 p.m., is open to the public.
The evening also turns attention to a group whose work typically happens outside public view: the Worcester Public Library Facilities Team.
The team will receive the foundation’s 2026 Dr. William F. and Betty O’Neil Service Award, an annual honor recognizing service to the foundation, library and its patrons.
In announcing the award, the foundation credited the facilities staff with working “behind the scenes to keep the library welcoming, functional, and event ready” and consistently assisting the foundation in its work supporting the library.
The program will begin with a brief business meeting that includes reports on the state of the library and foundation, a president’s report and the consideration of new board members.
Rose will close the formal program with a presentation examining the role libraries play in protecting the freedom to read and access information and how those issues are emerging today, according to the announcement. A reception will follow.
The Worcester Public Library Foundation raises private and public money to support the library and works to increase its visibility in the community.
The Sept. 17 meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the library and foundation. Admission is free, though attendees are asked to RSVP at execdir@wplfoundation.org or 508-799-1656.
