The Jacob Edwards Library is the public library for the Town of Southbridge, since 1914 and enjoys a rich legacy of excellent service and is committed to the promotion of reading, education, literacy, culture, and lifelong learning for persons of all ages in our community. In order to further that aspiration, and be the community hub, the place for any and all of our community’s residents to gather, learn and discover, we need and appreciate your support. For those that can, a donation to the library will assist in furthering the mission and vision of the library for future generations of library users.

Checks may be made payable to the "Trustees of the Jacob Edwards Library". 

Commemorative Book - Form
Gifts may be made to the Library in honor or in memory of a person, to celebrate a family event, or to mark any special occasion. The cost is $50 and a customized bookplate will be placed inside the chosen book. The donor may suggest a subject area and staff can assist in the selection of a title. We will also send an acknowledgment letter to the honoree or family if you choose

Legacy Bequests
Bequests to the Jacob Edwards Library provide a vital source of support. Gifts can be unrestricted or restricted and we have provided some examples of how a bequest may be worded below but each situation is unique. Please consider these as a guideline only and discuss the matter with your attorney in the drafting and execution of your estate documents.

Unrestricted Gifts 
Donations are accepted at the discretion of the Library Director and the Board of Trustees to areas with the most pressing needs, at a given time.

"I hereby give, bequest, and devise to the Trustees of the Jacob Edwards Library,  located at 236 Main Street, Southbridge, MA 01550, the sum of ____________ dollars (or the property described below, or ___________% of my residual estate) for use in furthering the charitable purposes of the Jacob Edwards Library."

Restricted Endowed Gifts
Endowed Funds may be designated for a specific intent. We kindly request that you consult with the Jacob Edwards Library before designating a purpose for your bequest.

"I hereby give, bequest, and devise to the Trustees of the Jacob Edwards Library, located at 236 Main Street, Southbridge, MA 01550, the sum of __________ dollars (or the property described below, or _________% of my residual estate) for the establishment of the _____________ Fund (describe as appropriate). Should the need for such a Fund cease to exist, then I empower the Trustees of the Jacob Edwards Library to alter the application of this Fund as they deem most appropriate at that time."


Information in this document is general and should not be construed as legal advice. Prospective donors are urged to consult their personal legal, tax, and financial advisors regarding donations.

Charitable Contributions information https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc506

All donations are covered by Internal Revenue Code § 170. The Jacob Edwards Library is considered a department of the Town of Southbridge and  IRC § 170 applies.