March 2023 Franklin Library News & Events
Library Hours
The Library’s regular hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Book Sale
Franklin Library Book Sale
Friday, March 17, 1:00-5:00 p.m. Saturday, March 18, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon.
All books are just one dollar!
Bag Sale - $5 A Bag—Saturday, March 18, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!
Volunteer Tutors Needed for ESL & Adult Literacy Program
The Franklin Public Library has started an English as a Second Language and Adult Literacy Program to serve Franklin and its surrounding communities. If you have the time and interest to help adult learners improve their English reading, writing, speaking and listening, please consider volunteering!
To volunteer, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have patience, and be able to speak English clearly. Prior teaching experience is not required. Volunteer Tutors will be given training and all supporting materials will be provided. The time commitment is one orientation session, 18 hours of tutor training, and to meet with your student 2 hours per week for one year. Volunteers and students do not need to be Franklin residents. If interested, please contact Deputy Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net, or fill out the registration form on the library’s website .
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program
SITE IS OPEN - By Appointment Only!
Register for an appointment on the Library Calendar of Events!
The Franklin Public Library VITA site is by Appointment only and is certified for Basic returns.
The VITA program has operated for over 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including:
People who generally make $60,000 or less
Persons with disabilities; and
Limited English-speaking taxpayers
Before going to a VITA or TCE site, see Publication 3676-BPDF for services provided and check out What to Bring to ensure you have all the required documents and information our volunteers will need to help you.
Learn more here: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifyi...
From Friends of the Franklin Library
Thank You for purchasing fudge! Thank you to those who participated in the Friends’ recent fudge fundraiser. We appreciate your support and hope you enjoyed your sweet treats!
Franklin Library Association Gift. Thank you to the Franklin Library Association for their years of service and their generous gift to us of copies of their recently published book The Franklin
Library Association: Building the Future of the Nation’s First Public Library 1858-2022. This book is full of fascinating characters and slices of life over more than 200 years as it tells the story of the FLA and the Franklin Public Library. This book is the perfect gift for anyone who loves books, libraries, and local history. Copies of the book are available now with a suggested donation of $15.00 to the Friends of the Franklin Library. Interested in a copy? Reach out to the Friends at fofl02038@gmail.com.
Friends of the Franklin Library is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the Franklin Public Library. Join us at 7:00pm on Wednesday, April 5 th at the library for our next meeting and the opportunity to meet other Friends and get involved in our organization. If you don’t have time to attend meetings, you can still support our mission and your library by making a direct donation to the Friends. Membership dues and donations are both tax deductible. CLICK HERE to learn more about the Friends.
Massachusetts Center for the Book 2023 Reading Challenge
March: Mass Book Awards Honoree
Do you have a cozy reading corner you’ve been wanting to spend more time in? Do you have a group of friends who like to select books together? Maybe a little constraint helps you choose what to read next.
If you are looking for a fun, unique reading challenge to take on in 2023, Massachusetts Center for the Book has you covered.
Check it out today! https://www.massbook.org/readingchallenge
Featured Databases
ConsumerLab.com HOME ACCESS Provides comprehensive information about vitamin, herbal and other supplements, and nutritional products. Includes ConsumerLab.com's independent product evaluations, test results for ConsumerLab.com selected products and Approved Products from ConsumerLab.com’s Quality Certification Program, product recalls, and safety warnings. A science-based encyclopedia of natural products is also provided, including a drug-interaction database
Consumer Reports is published by Consumers Union, an independent, nonprofit testing and information organization. Since 1936, CU's mission has been to test products, inform the public and protect consumers. It is a comprehensive source for unbiased advice about products and services, personal finance, health and nutrition, and other consumer concerns. Access to this database is limited to Franklin residents.
Check out the latest items added to the library's catalog!
Programs for Children and Teens
Weekly Events for Families!
Move Along! Mondays @ 10:30AM
This thirty-minute program features music, movement, stories, and other interactive activities to encourage social skills and promote early literacy!
Dungeons and Dragons Club for Kids & Teens! Mondays, 4:00-6:00PM (7+)
Kids are invited to join us for a weekly Dungeons and Dragons Club! The library will supply dice, rule books, and blank character sheets! (Dungeon Masters must be ages 10 and up)
Email mgousie@minlib.net to sign up!
Cool Cruisers! Tuesdays @ 9:30AM
Babies who have graduated from tummy time and are scooting all over the place are welcome to this playgroup just for them! We recognize that fun age of exploring is very different from their first few months, so join us for a special playgroup just for this exciting time!
Get Ready for Kindergarten! Tuesdays @10:30AM (3–5)
This 45-minute program featuring stories, songs, activities, and crafts will help prepare your children for preschool and kindergarten. Parents and caregivers can attend with their child if they wish. No registration required!
Toe-Tapping Tots! Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 4:00PM (2-4)
Let’s play some music and get those little toes moving! We will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence.
Girls Who Code! Grade 3 - 12 Meeting time Tuesdays @ 4:00 PM
This club is a great introduction to coding languages and concepts while building the community and group work skills needed to excel! Whether you want to try something new, build on skills, make friends, or help someone else grow... Welcome to our club!
Terrific Toddlers! Wednesdays @10:30AM (18 mos–3yrs)
Enjoy thirty minutes of interactive stories, songs, and activities for families and children from birth to age 3. No registration required!
Bookworm Bounce! Wednesdays @ 4:00PM
Join us for an afternoon story time full of music, movement, stories, and other interactive activities to encourage social skills and promote early literacy! Ideal for ages 0-5. No registration required!
After School Anime! Wednesdays, 4:00-5:00PM (10+)
Your weekly dose of anime goodness at The Franklin Public Library! Come watch the latest releases and popular anime shows, ideal for ages 10+!
Tummy Time! Thursdays @ 9:30AM
Babies and caregivers: join us each Thursday morning for Tummy Time! Nurture your baby’s development with gentle music, movement, and sensory play at the library! Please bring a small blanket or towel for your baby’s comfort!
Story and Craft, Thursdays @10:30AM (3+)
Join us for 30 minutes of themed stories, songs, and movement followed by a craft! For children ages 3 and up that can attend on their own. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to watch from the adjoining room. No registration required!
Toe-Tapping Tots! Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 4:00PM (2-4)
Let’s play some music and get those little toes moving! We will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence.
Artsy Afternoons Thursdays @ 4:00PM
Registration required. Registration opens the Sunday before the event. Registration Links below each event.
March 2 - Asian brush painting waterfalls
http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=FRANKLIN&curName=2023/...
March 9 - Dragonflies, Asian brush painting
http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=FRANKLIN&curName=2023/...
March 16 - Dragon kite
http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=FRANKLIN&curName=2023/...
March 23 - Fish painting
http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=FRANKLIN&curName=2023/...
March 30 - Whimsy bird puppets
http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=FRANKLIN&curName=2023/...
Happy Feet! Friday, March 10 & 24 @10:30AM (2-4)
Let’s play some music and get those little toes moving! Join us for an introductory class into creative movement using very basic ballet moves. We will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence. Laughter and giggles are definitely expected!
Silly Songs and Stories! Friday, March 3, 17 & 31 @10:30AM (0-5)
This thirty-minute program features music, movement, stories, and other interactive activities for littles! Parents and caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. No registration required!
Weekend Wiggles! Saturday, March 4 & 18 @ 10:30AM (2-5)
A weekend storytime for littles and their grown-ups! Let’s play some music and get those little toes moving! We will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence. Laughter and giggles are definitely expected! Ideal for children ages 2-5!
Chess Club! Sunday, March 12 & 26, 2:00-4:30PM
Chess - The Game of Kings has resumed play! All ages and ability levels are welcomed. If you would like to learn how to play chess, you are welcome as well! Learn an opening, develop strategic & tactic abilities, improve endgame skills. Remember: Chess makes you smarter; Smart people play chess. Sets will be available. No registration is required, and there is no fee.
Special Events for Kids & Families
Kids Take & Makes: Rainbow Twirler!
Starting Wednesday, March 1st stop by the library to pick up your very own Rainbow Twirler kit!
Kits include supplies and instructions for making your own twirler! The perfect craft to bring you some luck this St. Patrick’s Day! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis!
Baby Wearing Dance Party! Friday March 3rd @9:30AM
Strap your little one in and join us for music and movement together! Bond with your baby in a fun, active way for this half-hour program!
March Madness: Battle of the Books! March 6 - April 1
It's year 6 of our annual contest and we're switching it up! What is Franklin’s Favorite Book? Be sure to check back each week to cast your vote! Which book will be our 2023 winner? Only YOU can decide!
Doggie Tales! Monday, March 6th & March 20th @4:00 PM (1st grade +)
Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a trained therapy dog! Bring your favorite book or pick out one of ours to read. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. SPOTS ARE LIMITED. Register on our website to reserve your spot.
Baby Sensory! Saturday, March 11th @9:30AM
Join us for a 45-minute baby sensory program! Watch your little one interact and engage with a variety of sensory items! Sensory play is a fantastic way to help babies explore their worlds, stimulate the senses, and create little inquisitive explorers! Babies under 2 are welcome and encouraged! (Got older siblings? They can bring along a stuffed toy or baby and play along!)
Leprechaun Scavenger Hunt! March 13-March 17
Can you find the mischievous leprechaun hiding in the library? Drop in to the library at any point during the week of St. Patrick’s Day and follow the clues to win your share of the treasure!
Kid’s Paint Party! Saturday, March 18th @ 1:00PM
FOR KIDS AGES 5-11! REGISTRATION REQUIRED!! Join local instructor Denise Palmieri for this step-by-step paint party specifically for kids! All materials will be provided and you'll get to take home your very own bunny masterpiece! The same painting will be taught at the March, April and May event - please only register for 1 date. Register through the events calendar our website to reserve your spot.
Get It Girls! A Women's History Celebration! Friday, March 17 @3:30PM
Join us for an afternoon of caterpillar craziness! We’ll have games, crafts, and more! Fun for all ages!
Girl Power Engineering Night! Wednesday, March 22 @ 5:30PM
Join Girl Scout troop #62394 and learn about women engineers! Then join in on the marshmallow toothpick tower contest!
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day! Friday, March 24 @ 2:30PM
Join us for an afternoon of caterpillar craziness! We’ll have games, crafts, and more! Fun for all ages!
Tape Town! Saturday, March 25 @10:30AM
Families! Let’s bring a little summer warmth to this cold month! Join us as we turn our big program room into an indoor summer oasis! Grab a cold drink and hit the play sand, enjoy beach balls, sand castles, snacks, and groovy tunes!
Weekly / monthly Events for Teens
Dungeons and Dragons Club for Kids & Teens! Mondays, 4:00-6:00PM (7+)
Kids are invited to join us for a weekly Dungeons and Dragons Club! The library will supply dice, rule books, and blank character sheets! (Dungeon Masters must be ages 10 and up) Email mgousie@minlib.net to sign up!
Girls Who Code! Grade 3 - 12 Meeting time Tuesdays @ 4:00 PM
This club is a great introduction to coding languages and concepts while building the community and group work skills needed to excel! Whether you want to try something new, build on skills, make friends, or help someone else grow... Welcome to our club!
Animation Nation Anime Club! Wednesdays, 4:00-5:00PM (10+)
Your weekly dose of anime goodness at The Franklin Public Library! Come watch the latest releases and popular anime shows, ideal for ages 10+! No registration required!
Teen Book Bites! Weekly on Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30PM
Teens! Bring along a snack and join us in the teen room each Wednesday for a casual chat about what we're all reading!
Teen Advisory Board, 2nd Wednesday of the Month @ 6:30PM
Join us each month for Teen Advisory Board! The Teen Advisory Board is a GREAT opportunity to get involved here at the library! You'll help plan events and programs, create displays and decorate the teen space, and help drive decisions around the kinds of materials we bring to the YA collection, from books and beyond, all while eating snacks and getting volunteer hours! It's a win-win-win!
Game Bytes Weekly on Thursdays 4:00PM
Bring a snack and talk shop about the latest and greatest in Video Games! New Releases, Events, Streamers, Speed Running, AND PLEASE bring your own devices to play! No registration required!
VolunTeens! 2nd & 4th Thursday of the Month, 6:00-7:00PM (14+)
An elite volunteering program for dedicated library volunteers, this program is designed to facilitate unique volunteer opportunities for committed teens to work on special library projects. You will learn all about event planning and execution, hone your creative and crafty skills, and build your resume!
To apply and for more information please contact Bree at bcomeau@minlib.net.
Chess Club! March 12 & 26, 2:00-4:30PM
Chess - The Game of Kings has resumed play! All ages and ability levels are welcomed. If you would like to learn how to play chess, you are welcome as well! Learn an opening, develop strategic & tactic abilities, improve endgame skills. Remember: Chess makes you smarter; Smart people play chess. Sets will be available. No registration is required, and there is no fee.
Special Events for Teens
Teen Take & Makes: Lots O’ Luck Plaque!
Starting Wednesday, March 1st stop by the library to pick up your very own Lots O’ Luck kit. Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own St. Patrick’s Day Decor! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis!
Navigating College Admissions in 2023! Wednesday March 15 @7:00PM
A virtual seminar for all high school students and their parents. Join Ron Feuchs and Jackie Tepper, from Stand Out For College, LLC. as they help you understand how the lingering effects from the pandemic have changed the college admissions landscape and how students can position themselves to develop a compelling narrative to increase their chances for college admission. For the zoom link, email Bree at bcomeau@minlib.net.
Popcorn and a Play! Wednesday March 22 @6:30PM
Teens! Join us for an evening of snacks and acting! We will be reading a one act play together on the spot, and enjoying some popcorn!
Community Conversations! Thursday March 30 @6:00PM
Folks of all ages are welcome to join us each month as we unpack, discuss, and engage with topics relevant both within our community and beyond. Come with an open mind, leave with plenty of food for thought! This month’s topic: Food Insecurity!
Events for Adults
Adult Take & Makes: Shamrock Shadow Box!
Starting Wednesday, March 1st, stop by the library to pick up your very own Shamrock Shadow Box kit. Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own hanging shadow box! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! LIMIT 1 PER PERSON! Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis!
Knitting Group, Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Love to knit or crochet? Join our group of local fiber artists who will be meeting in the Friends of the Franklin Library Community Room on Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Chess Group, Sundays, March 12 & 26, 2:00-4:30PM
Chess - The Game of Kings has resumed play! All ages and ability levels are welcomed. If you would like to learn how to play chess, you are welcome as well! Learn an opening, develop strategic & tactic abilities, improve endgame skills. Remember: Chess makes you smarter; Smart people play chess. Sets will be available. No registration is required, and there is no fee.
Community-wide Read! Winter 2023
Beginning January 1, 2023, copies of Kindred: A graphic novel adaptation by Octavia E. Butler, adapted to a graphic novel by Damian Duffy and John Jennings will be available. Find out more on the library’s website. Kindred: A graphic novel adaptation is also available on Hoopla!
Friends of Franklin Library Meeting, Wednesday, April 5th, 7:00 PM
Love the Library? Then how about we be friends! Join us at the Friends of Franklin Library meeting!
Contact us at: fofl02038@gmail.com Follow us on Twitter: @FriendsFranklin
Mid-Week Reset Wednesday March 1th 7:00 PM
No registration required
Join us for a mid-week breather at our guided meditation. This event is open to all levels and no prior experience is required. The only thing necessary is the desire to disconnect for a few moments and allow yourself some peace.
Historical Sites of Massachusetts Series March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 12:00 PM Virtual Events
Brought to you with Tewksbury Public Library
Enjoy a Luncheon Talk on Multiple topics from our National Parks Service! Presentations are:
March 1: Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site Presents 'Olmsted's Life & Legacy'
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/1216757242761/WN_VwFcvdvHSquSbJ...
March 8: Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site Present 'Past & Present Here Unite'
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/5016757242878/WN_GMJ6VZ8iQWm-Ah...
March 15: Boston African American National Historic Site Presents 'Explore The Black Heritage Trail'
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/8916757242975/WN_8_5PCIFxTQe-Z9...
March 22: New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Presents 'Stories From The Whaling Port'
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7216757243070/WN_i5r2Hk1qSlCEtQ...
March 29: John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site Presents 'From Beals St. To The White House'
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/2816757243159/WN_d8CYB3VlTFalQw...
Adult watercolor class: Asian brush painting waterfall, artist Hokusai, March 5th, 2:00 PM
Registration Required
Register Here: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=FRANKLIN&curName=2023/...
This month is Asian Brush Painting of waterfalls; inspired by the artist Hokusai.
YA Book Club (For Adults!), Tuesday, March 7th 7:00 PM
March Book: Improbable Magic for Cynical Witches by Kate Scelsa
Real talk; Young Adult Books are not just for young adults... Join a book club celebrating favorites young and old! Getting cozy STRONGLY encouraged!
Peonies: Love of My Life March 7th 7:00PM
No registration required
Christine Paxhia has been a Massachusetts Master Gardener since 2012. Her appreciation and admiration for “growing things” started as a child on woodland hikes with her mother. At the age of ten she saw her first peony; today her Milton home garden is filled with 38 varieties (and growing!). A member of the Milton Garden Club, Christine is a Garden Club of America Photography Judge. She is the MMGA’s Project Manager for the Fletcher Steele Garden, Milton, which is home to an impressive peony collection. Christine is a graduate of the MMGA Speakers Bureau Training Program.
Peonies: Love of my Life: Go back in time to the origin of peonies and learn a bit about their history. The “how to” part of this presentation will teach you to select, install, care for and divide these beautiful and much-loved plants. Then sit back and feast your eyes on a colorful photographic showcase of the many different varieties and types of peonies.
Friends of the Franklin Library Book Club, Tuesday, March 7th 6:30PM
Join the Friends for an evening book club! Enjoy discussion and fun with some of the best advocates a Library could ask for!
Reading: Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno Garcia
Irish in America Concert March 11th 3:00 PM
No registration required
A musical journey celebrating the ‘Irish in America ‘, for all ages! Irish immigrants captured the heart of the nation with their mix of Irish jigs, ballads, folk songs, storytelling and humor. Get your green on, warm up your voices and enjoy the warmth, spirit and hilarity of the ‘Irish in America’.
An America Divided March 14 7:00 PM Virtual Event
Join Emma Green in this exploration of the ways that Americans are divided - politically, religiously, economically, communities, and even families. What has caused these ruptures and what are some ways for us to come back together?
RSVP on the Calendar of Events
Table Top, Tuesday, March 14th & 28th 6:00 PM
Registration Requested!
It's time to dust off your dice, grab a source book and role play your way through hijinks and horrors! Table Top is a Monthly game of Table Top Role Playing Games for Adults!
Email mgousie@minlib.net to sign up or get more info!
Navigating College Admissions in 2023! Wednesday March 15 @7:00PM
A virtual seminar for all high school students and their parents. Join Ron Feuchs and Jackie Tepper, from Stand Out For College, LLC. as they help you understand how the lingering effects from the pandemic have changed the college admissions landscape and how students can position themselves to develop a compelling narrative to increase their chances for college admission. For the zoom link, email Bree at bcomeau@minlib.net.
Cassatt & Company: The Women Impressionists March 20 3:00 PM Virtual Event
You've heard of Monet, Renoir, and Degas. Leading men of the Impressionism movement, but what about the women? Join us online for a journey of discovery with Jane Oneail through the works of Marie Bracquemond, Berthe Morisot, and more! RSVP on the Calendar of Events: https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library
Board Game Group, Tuesday, March 21th 6:30 PM
No registration required
Try and new game! Introduce your favorite! Most importantly... Play games!
This a monthly group dedicated to the great board games out there and a space to find some new people to play with! All ages welcome! No registration required!
Sustainable Edible Landscaping March 25 11:00 AM
No registration required
Join Naturalist and Landscaper John Root to learn about the variety of beautiful and edible plants that are hardy for our region of the world. Begin your more sustainable, eco-friendly yard adventure here!
Remote Option:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYvce2hpzsvGdAYfC4LeBhclAZbJ6n...
Franklin Public Library Book Club Tuesday, March 28, 7:00 PM
The book for discussion is Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, by Kim Michelle Richardson.
Cussy Mary Carter is the last of her kind, her skin the color of a blue damselfly in these dusty hills. But that doesn't mean she's got nothing to offer. As a member of the Pack Horse Library Project, Cussy delivers books to the hill folk of Troublesome, hoping to spread learning in these desperate times. But not everyone is so keen on Cussy's family or the Library Project, and the hardscrabble Kentuckians are quick to blame a Blue for any trouble in their small town. The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a story of raw courage, fierce strength, and one woman's determination to bring a little bit of hope to the darkly hollers. -- Provided by publisher.
For more information, please contact Deputy Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net .
Community Conversations! Thursday March 30 @6:00PM
Folks of all ages are welcome to join us each month as we unpack, discuss, and engage with topics relevant both within our community and beyond. Come with an open mind, leave with plenty of food for thought! This month’s topic: Food Insecurity!
Genealogy Club, Thursday, March 30, 6:30 p.m.
DNA & Endogamy: Making sense when your matches don’t make sense, with Dr. Adina Newman. Endogamy is the custom of marrying only within the limits of a local community, clan, or tribe over the course of many generations. In endogamous populations, genetic cousins may share much more DNA than would normally be expected, which may provide you with some puzzling genetic relationship results. Dr. Newman will share tips for untangling these complicated DNA matches. Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82256936182?pwd=VmE5YTFKUzlWVTYvMmxJTWtrS2t3QT09
Genealogy Database Spotlight! MyHeritage Library Edition– MyHeritage Library Edition is one of the largest, most internationally diverse genealogy databases of its kind, with access to billions of historical documents, millions of historical photos and other resources in thousands of databases that span the past five centuries.