Meet Julie Hackett: A Legacy of Service Continues
Growing up in a family where public service wasn't just a career choice but a calling, Julie Hackett learned early that strengthening community is both a privilege and a responsibility. As the daughter of longtime Weymouth educators Jack and Pat Hackett, and surrounded by family members who dedicated themselves to town governance—including her cousin David M. Madden, Weymouth's first Mayor—Julie has now carried forward this tradition of giving back by becoming the Weymouth Libraries Foundation's first "Maria Weston Chapman donor."
Through her significant financial commitment and weekly volunteer work leading children's programming at Tufts Library, Julie exemplifies how private philanthropy can enhance public institutions, ensuring that future generations will continue to find in our libraries the same sense of wonder and community connection that shaped her own childhood visits to the Fogg Library.
We sat down with Julie to learn more about her journey from a library-loving child to a champion of Weymouth's literary future…
Can you tell me about your family's history of service and how that influenced your decision to become so deeply involved with the Weymouth Public Libraries? What values or experiences from your upbringing shaped your commitment to giving back?
My parents, Jack and Pat Hackett were both elementary school teachers in Weymouth. Later in his career, my dad became the Associate Superintendent of Weymouth Public Schools. He was also a Town Meeting Member. My cousin, David M. Madden, was the first Mayor of Weymouth, and my sister Jane Hackett was the Chief of Staff for the Town. My sister and brother-in-law, Colin McPherson were both Town Councillors. So, basically, I was surrounded by great people who dedicated their careers and personal time to public service! When I retired, inspired by my family, I wanted to give back to the Town. Volunteering at the Tufts Library seemed to be a great opportunity to give back while doing things that I am passionate about - spending time with children and reading.
What motivated you to become the Foundation's first 'Maria Weston Chapman donor' and what does this level of commitment mean to you personally? How do you see this type of support impacting the library's future?
Philanthropy.org says that "philanthropy is more than giving—it’s the art and act of improving the world with purpose. It is the thoughtful use of one’s resources—money, time, influence, or expertise—to strengthen communities, support shared values, solve problems, and build a legacy".
When I was putting together my personal philanthropic plan, I felt that supporting Weymouth Libraries would help strengthen Weymouth, which is something that is important to me as someone who grew up here. I hope that my contribution, combined with others, will allow the Weymouth Libraries to become even more essential resources to the community than they already are.
You dedicate significant time each week to children's programming at Tufts Library...What draws you to working directly with young people, and what do you hope they gain from these experiences? Can you share a particularly memorable moment from your programs?
My parents brought my brother and me to the Fogg Library at least once a week when we were young. Those visits are among my favorite childhood memories. I hope that the children who come to Storytime at the Library or who visit the Library just to browse, will have wonderful memories, too. Enjoying reading is a gift that will stay with them for a lifetime.
One of my favorite moments at Storytime is when I start the story and a child says "I read that book" or "I have that book at home", and they are happy to see one of their favorite books at Storytime. It shows that they are enjoying books outside the library too and that books are like familiar friends!
Another memorable moment happened earlier this year when a 6-year-old child asked if she could read a book to the group. We did a quick "rehearsal" before others came in, and she read the story flawlessly. This inspired another 6-year-old to volunteer to read on another day, and she did an amazing job too!
How do you see libraries fitting into the broader fabric of our community, especially for families and children? What role do you believe private philanthropy should play in supporting public institutions like libraries?
Today's libraries are so much more than places to get books. They are vibrant community gathering places where all are welcome. They provide access to great programs and resources for free!
While cities and towns have a responsibility to maintain the facility itself, staffing and other operational issues, resources are often limited and there are many competing interests. Private philanthropy can support public institutions like libraries by providing funding for community outreach and programming that can bring people together.
What would you say to other community members who might be considering supporting the Weymouth Libraries Foundation?
If you are interested in making a positive difference in the Town, supporting the Weymouth Public Libraries Foundation is a unique opportunity to do just that!
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for how your family's investment will continue to benefit future generations in Weymouth?
My hope is that my financial contribution to the Weymouth Libraries Foundation will help the Library continue to transform itself into a vibrant, welcoming community space for everyone in our Town by supporting programming and providing resources that have a positive impact for all who visit in person or online.
If there’s interest in donating to the Weymouth Libraries Foundation, reach out to us directly.
Email: weymouthlibrariesfoundation@gmail.com
