The Morrill Memorial Library has taken its first formal steps toward establishing a free film‑lending service, a project made possible through the foresight and generosity of the Women’s Community Committee. As planning continues, the library is now seeking information from local organizations and individuals who own motion‑picture projectors, hoping to determine what equipment exists in town and what types of films would be most useful.
To assist in the planning, the library asks that interested groups mail a postcard listing:
- Whether their projector is sound or silent
- Whether it uses 8mm or 16mm film
- Subjects of interest to their members
- The name of the organization or individual who would borrow films
This information will help shape the new service, which aims to make educational and recreational films widely available throughout Norwood.
A Gift That Makes the Program Possible
The Women’s Community Committee has donated $300 to launch the service, and has asked the library to administer the program. Librarian Miss Edna Phillips recently met with school principals, teachers, and church representatives to discuss how best to use the funds.
The group agreed that purchasing films outright would be too costly. Instead, they recommended relying on free films and exploring film‑rental options. Since then, the library has begun expanding its collection of film catalogues and information resources.
Educators and Clergy Offer Their Input
Those attending the planning meeting included:
- Charles Hayden and Everett F. Learnard, Senior High School
- Miss Keown, H. O. Peabody School
- John Corcoran and Miss Mary Cullinane, Junior High School
- Miss Grace Beverly, Balch School
- Miss Edna Frost, Callahan School
- Miss Mary Dean, Shattuck School
- Miss Agnes Hedberg, Winslow School
- Rev. Christopher Griffin, representing St. Catherine’s School and parish
- Miss Muriel Carlson, representing the Norwood Council of Churches and noted for her work in audiovisual education
- Mrs. Hugo B. C. Riemer, representing both the Women’s Community Committee and the Recreation Advisory Board
Superintendent Lincoln D. Lynch was consulted but unable to attend.
Miss Phillips noted that only one other library in Massachusetts—in Fitchburg—has a similar film‑lending service, making Norwood an early adopter of this innovative educational resource.
A Forward‑Looking Community Project
The proposed film library reflects Norwood’s growing interest in modern educational tools, community programming, and shared cultural resources. Once established, the service will support schools, churches, civic groups, and clubs throughout town.
Residents wishing to participate or provide projector information may contact the library directly. The success of the program will depend on broad community involvement—and early signs suggest Norwood is ready to embrace this new chapter in public learning.
Text and images may have been created, edited, colorized, or digitally restored using AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini. All content is reviewed for accuracy and historical integrity before publication by the Norwood Historical Society
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