The Rodgers Memorial Library Board of Trustees received a formal update from Town Administrator Roy Sorenson on the future of the Hills Memorial Library Building, marking another step in the transition of oversight from the Library Trustees to the Hudson Board of Selectmen.
Sorenson reminded the Board that the shift has been in discussion for more than a year. “This is something we’ve been working on with the Board of Selectmen and Director Pilla for the past year,” he said. “The Board of Selectmen will have exclusive authority for operations, maintenance, and things along those lines.”
Because the Hills building is a historic property, its upkeep has long required coordination and funding across multiple departments. Sorenson noted that the FY 2027 budget is already set, meaning the Town and Library will continue working together during the transition year.
“When you talk about operations and maintenance, obviously there are budget items,” he said. “We’ll have a partnership with Director Pilla moving forward as far as any cost throughout FY 2027. That’s not to say the Library Trustees or anyone else won’t be invited back, that relationship still exists. We have ongoing discussions, and I’ll have to talk to the schools next, as well as the Historical Society.”
The Board then read into the record a formal resolution outlining the transfer of responsibility. Trustee Chair Mimi Guessferd delivered the statement, which establishes July 1, 2026 as the effective date for the transition.
“Now, therefore, may it be resolved that effective July 1, 2026, the Hudson Library Board of Trustees shall transfer and surrender all oversight, maintenance, and operational responsibilities associated with the Hills Memorial Building to the Town of Hudson acting through its Board of Selectmen and designated administrative staff,” Guessferd read. The resolution also states that all existing agreements and service arrangements will transfer to the Town, and that the Trustees will make available any FY 2027 library budget funds necessary for the building’s care through June 30, 2027.
Library Director Linda Pilla expressed gratitude for the Town’s willingness to assume responsibility and for the collaborative process that led to the decision. “It’s been a pleasure to go through this process, and it feels wonderful to get it done,” she said. “Even in just the conversations we’ve had, I know the Hills building is going to be in good hands with you and with the Board of Selectmen. Thank you very much.”
Sorenson thanked the Trustees for their stewardship. “Thank you for overseeing the building as long as you did. I think it’s a valued asset to the town. I love the old buildings, historical buildings,” he said. “We’ll move forward with appreciation and stewardship into the future.”
The Rodgers Memorial Library Board of Trustees will meet next on Wednesday, July 15 at 6 p.m. in the Hudson Cable Access Center.