Says library is “so much more than just books”

By Theresa Knapp 

In July, the Bancroft Memorial Library welcomed a new director, Keely Bethel-Penny. 

While new to the position, Bethel-Penny started at the Hopedale library in 2022 as the Senior Library and Technical Services Assistant. Prior to that, she was the Cataloger at Plainville Public Library for almost 14 years. 

Bethel-Penny, who previously lived in Plainville for 20 years and recently moved back to Foxboro where she was raised, took over the reins on July 22 on the retirement of previous director Tricia Perry.

“I have always loved libraries and was very fortunate to work part-time in one as I raised my kids,” Bethel-Penny told Hopedale Town News. “I knew I wanted a career in library services and once my kids grew up, I found myself ready for more - more responsibilities, more challenges. Hopedale was perfect for me because of the small-townfeel. The annual events like the Fairy Walk, the Day in the Park, the Holiday Stroll, the summer band concerts - it’s cozy and welcoming. I love that our patrons come in and chat with us and share their lives, it’s not just transactional.”

Bethel-Penny says any future plans for the library “will always reflect the needs and interests of our patrons and building healthy partnerships between the Library and the community.” She notes that, in the past two years, the Library has seen an increase in community engagement and patronage, and will continue to expand its programming. 

“We added an evening craft class for adults, host Community Conversations (sponsored by Hopedale for Change), and Laura [Brillant-Giangrande], our Youth Services Librarian, has just started offering volunteer hours for high school students.” 

“I always tell people that Bancroft Memorial Library is so much more than just books,” said Bethel-Penny, who invites residents to stop by to say hello and/or visit https://www.hopedale-ma.gov/bancroft-memorial-library/bancroft-memorial-library for more information about library offerings.