Patrick signs bill to bring internet to rural communities

Governor signs bill bringing broadband to Western MA-an area where libraries have been the only source of high speed internet in many communities. Western Massachusetts Regional Library System Administrator, John Ramsay, was on hand for the bill signing and spoke with key officials about the role libraries can play in helping individuals access service. -- The Republican. Full Story at: http://twurl.nl/ab3ret

Hampden appoints librarian

"Ellen C. Bump has been hired as the permanent director of the Hampden Free Public Library, the library trustees said. Bump had been director of the Hampden Free Public Library for eight years when the library was closed in July 2004 after voters failed to approve an override of Proposition 2½." -- The Republican (Springfield, MA). Full Story at: http://tinyurl.com/5ett3a

Legislative Issues Alert on Tax Repeal Initiative

The Massachusetts Nonprofit Network has issued the following alert on the tax repeal initiative:

"This November, a referendum question repealing the Massachusetts personal income tax will be on the ballot. We must inform the public that eliminating the state personal income tax will have detrimental effects on state revenues that fund state programs and services, including those provided by the nonprofit sector." -- David P. Magnani, Ed.D., Executive DirectorMassachusetts Nonprofit Network http://www.massnonprofitnet.org/

Library is on the move

"The Bolton Public Library expansion project has reached a critical point on its long and winding road. This week, construction drawings were locked down for bidding, and today marks the last day the building will be open in its original 105-year-old glory. Tomorrow, the library will begin its migration to temporary quarters to make way for construction." -- The Bolton Common. Full Story at: http://tinyurl.com/57bjxg

Assonet library to stay open for now

Assonet's Hathaway Library will remain open, at least until January, the Library Board of Trustees has decided. -- SouthCoastToday.com. Full Story at: http://tinyurl.com/5cpvpo