Brookline Appoints Two New Library Trustees
Anne Depew and Betsy Frauenthal were selected to fill vacancies on the Board of Library Trustees.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in People
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The Select Board and current library trustees appointed Anne Depew and Betsy Frauenthal to the Board of Library Trustees on Tuesday. The new members fill vacancies left by two recent resignations.
Why it matters
The board plays a critical role in managing the Brookline library system, including its budget, policy development, and the selection of the library director. These appointments ensure the 12-member board returns to full capacity.
A pool of five candidates competed for the two open positions on the 12-member Board of Library Trustees. One appointee, Anne Depew, brings 25 years of experience as a lawyer to the board.
The players
Anne Depew
She is an attorney who brings 25 years of legal experience to the Board of Library Trustees.
Betsy Frauenthal
She is a former library board member and the former executive director of the Brookline Music School.
The details
A joint convention of the Select Board and existing trustees conducted the vote to select the new members. Anne Depew and Betsy Frauenthal were chosen over three other candidates to join the governing body.
Timeline
The appointments occurred on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
The current terms for the new trustees will end in May 2027.
Market Landscape
The appointment process followed the standard protocols required by the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law for public board proceedings. This ensures municipal governance remains transparent as the board balances its budget and operational policies.
Residents will see the new trustees take a direct role in shaping library policies and budgets. These board decisions influence library hours, resource availability, and the overall quality of services provided to the community.
The takeaway
The addition of these experienced trustees provides the board with continuity and legal expertise to navigate upcoming fiscal challenges. Residents interested in the future of the library system can track meeting agendas to see how new board members influence policy.
Further reading
For more information on local civic leaders, visit the Brookline People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Brookline.
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