Hubbard Public Library

History :

The Hubbard Public Library owes its origin to twelve determined women who persevered eight years to attain their goal. Choosing to call themselves "The Colloquial Forum", the women drafted a formal constitution stating that Colloquial Forum was organized "expressly to secure a Library". Pledging their efforts were charter members Mrs. H.G. Boren, Mrs. R.C. Bowers, Mrs. William Davis, Miss Ethel Lyons, Miss Claire McKelvy, Mrs. Scott Moore, Mrs. Dana Reeder, Mrs. L. A. Sprague, Mrs. L.M. Stewart, Miss Vera Toy, Miss Ruth Watson, and Miss Elvira Wright.

In the September 27, 1929 issue of The Hubbard News a column titled "Colloquial Cauldron" appeared, introducing The Colloquial Forum and its singular purpose. Every week thereafter until May 25th, 1933, The Hubbard News editorial page carried the "Cauldron", its content always dealing with literary interests and the encouragement of reading. "Wouldn’t it be fine if Hubbard had a public library where you could always find worthwhile books to read?" was the lead-in for the second week’s column. A News editorial of November 8, 1929 praised and encouraged the efforts of Colloquial Forum. The final line of every "Cauldron" column was the slogan in capital letters "A PUBLIC LIBRARY FOR HUBBARD!"

To promote further interest Colloquial Forum gave monthly book reviews in the village council room, with members taking turns presenting reviews. Although these programs ceased in 1933, the club remained active in pursuit of its goal. Leading the organization from its inception were Mrs. Ethel Bowers; Hubbard High School Librarian, Miss Claire McKelvey; and Mrs. Grace Boren.