Celebrating a Win for the Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library … and for Westford

At MillTown, our Helping Hands program is all about giving back to the community, and this time, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on an incredible local organization: the Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library. This group does more than support Westford’s library—they transform it into a hub of learning, connection, and enrichment for everyone in town.

The Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library were the proud winners of a $1,000 charitable donation through MillTown’s Helping Hands online voting contest in October 2024. This donation will help the Friends continue their incredible work enhancing the library experience for the Westford community.  

Why the Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library?

When you walk through the doors of the J.V. Fletcher Library, you’re stepping into a space shaped by the tireless efforts of the Friends. From funding nearly all the library’s programming for kids, teens, and adults to providing museum passes and downloadable resources, their impact is felt everywhere. That bestseller you just snagged? Chances are, it’s part of the Friends’ Bestseller Collection, a service that offers titles specifically for Westford residents.

Libraries are no longer just about books—they’re community centers. They’re safe spaces during extreme weather, offering cooling or warming centers when people need them most. They provide access to resources, entertainment, and education with no strings attached. Anyone can go into a library and avail themselves of the materials and other resources available, with no expectations. No payment is required. 

A Legacy of Service

The Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library has been making a difference since 1972. Over the years, they’ve grown into a dynamic force. For example, more than 19,000 Westford residents (out of nearly 25,000) have valid library cards. Last year alone, they supported more than 1,200 programs and nearly 500,000 items were accessed. That’s a lot of stories, adventures, and learning moments sparked by their dedication.

A Chapter of Change: The J.V. Fletcher Library’s Exciting Next Steps

The J.V. Fletcher Library is a place where stories are shared, connections are made, and resources are accessible to all. But even the most treasured spaces need a refresh now and then, and the library is gearing up for a big change—a long-anticipated expansion and renovation project!

With the library gearing up for this exciting expansion, the Friends are facing new challenges. For the next two years, the library will move to a smaller, temporary location, and programs may be scattered across town.

But the Friends are undeterred. They see the bigger picture: a larger, more modern library that will serve the community better than ever before.

Despite the temporary inconvenience, the library’s expansion and renovation will bring incredible benefits. The new and improved library will offer a larger, more modern space, with the potential for even more programs, resources, and opportunities to serve the community. It’s an investment in the future of Westford, ensuring the library continues to be a place of inspiration and connection for decades to come.

Powered by Volunteers

None of this would be possible without the 75-100 volunteers who show up to support library events or the 18 dedicated board members who work year-round to keep the organization running smoothly. The Friends are a shining example of what happens when a community comes together for a shared purpose.

A Jewel in the Heart of Westford

For the Friends, the library is more than a building; it’s a home away from home. It’s where they channel their love for books and their belief in the power of knowledge into something tangible for the entire community. We’re inspired by their work, and we hope you are too.

If you’d like to learn more about the Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library or the expansion project, please visit their website.