Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts

Monday, June 23, 2025

July 2025 Franklin Library News & Events: Kids & Families; Teens

**LIBRARY NEWS**

Library Hours
The library’s hours are Monday through Thursday, 9am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday, 9am to 5pm.  The library is closed on Sundays. The library will be closed on Friday, July 4th in recognition of Independence Day.
2025 Reading Challenge
2025 Reading Challenge


Special Events for Kids & Families

Tiny Art Show, June 13 - July 18
We're hosting a Tiny Art Show and we want you to be in it! Artists of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to create their own mini masterpiece on a 4 x 4 inch canvas provided by the library. Canvases can be picked up at the circulation desk anytime June 13 - July 18. No registration required.

Scott Martel Magic Show, Wednesday, July 2 @ 10:30am
Join us as we welcome Magician Scott Martell and enjoy a family magic show featuring lots of comedy and surprises! Suggested Ages: 4-12. No registration required.

Rainforest Reptiles, Monday, July 7 @ 4pm
Travel with us to the different rainforests around the world and meet the alligators, turtles, snakes and more that call these places home! Real, LIVE Animal Fun for All Ages! No registration required.

R.I. Pirate Guy, Tuesday, July 8 @ 1pm & 3pm
Registration Required – 1pm
Registration Required – 3pm
Join the R.I. Pirate Guy for a rollicking adventure to recover his wrongfully gained treasure while learning pirate skills along the way!

Fairytale Fun, Wednesday, July 9 @ 10:30am
Join us for a special Royal Ball fit for a princess (and her Fairy Godmother)! Be sure to come dressed in your best. There will be singing, dancing, interactive storytelling and a photo opportunity with each special guest. No registration required.

Library Lawn Games, Friday, July 11 & July 25 @ 2pm
Before the Common starts rocking, roll over to the library for a round of classic board games made GIANT! We'll be chilling on the library lawn with mega-sized games to enjoy. (Fear not, if the weather is too wet or hot we'll play inside in the library Meeting Room.) No registration required.

Dog Man Party, Saturday, July 12 @1pm
Supa Fun! Join us for an epic afternoon celebrating everyone's favorite canine crimefighter! Enjoy games, crafts, snacks, and more. No registration required.

Mr. Vinny Bubble Show, Monday, July 14 @ 4pm
Mr. Vinny, using giant bubble wands designed and constructed by the Bubble Guy himself, will gather kids for an hour long game of watch, chase, and pop the bubbles! No registration required.

Petite Picassos, Monday, July 14 @ 4pm
Registration Required
Join Miss Lily and create your very own step-by-step painting of a sea turtle! This paint party is a great fit for children ages 6 through 12. All materials will be provided.

Mike Bent Magic Show, Wednesday, July 16 @ 10:30am
Join us for an exciting and fun comedy magic show developed especially for kids and families! AbraKidabra!™ combines amazing magic, big laughs, audience participation and hilarious surprises for a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience that will leave the whole family impressed. No registration required.

Science Chefs: Slushies, Thursday, July 17 @ 4pm
1 part food, 1 part science, and unlimited fun! We'll be exploring questions like how cold is frozen and can a liquid be freezing cold without actually freezing?? No registration required.

Animal Affair, Friday, July 18 @ 1pm
Make some new furry or feathered friends when the Animal Affair Traveling Petting Zoo visits the Franklin Public Library!  Everyone is welcome to pet, brush, feed, hold, and play with the animals. Participants are taught the proper way to hold and handle the animals.  Animal Affair will be bringing ducks, chickens, goats, pigs and rabbits! No registration required.

Legendary Foam Party, Saturday, July 19 @ 10:30am
We're bubbling with excitement! Join us for some tunes and sudsy fun with Legendary Foam. (Don't forget your towel!) No registration required.

Music at the Blissful, Monday, July 21 @ 4pm
Join us for a fun, high energy music program for children and their grownups! Musician Evan Haller brings the energy to get the whole crowd up and dancing. No registration required.

Ants on a Log Band, Wednesday, July 23 @ 10:30am
Ants on a Log plays music for children and the childlike at heart. Their award-winning music centers positivity, social justice, and silliness. Full of humor and harmony, Ants concerts are energetic, interactive, and a delight for children and adults. No registration required.

Puzzle Mania, Thursday, July 24 @ 5pm
Registration Required
Join us for a family-fun puzzle challenge! Bring your family or group of friends and work as a team to see how quickly you can complete a 500-piece puzzle! (Please submit only 1 registration per team/family).

Parody Playhouse, Monday, July 28 @ 4pm
Join us for a special kid-friendly spin on your favorite musical hits! Parody Playhouse features child-appropriate parodies of popular songs by a range of artists, with themes like learning shapes, colors, emotions, parts of the body, animals, and even social-emotional learning. It's sure to be a blast! No registration required.

Wild Kat Hoops, Wednesday, July 30 @ 10:30am
We're thrilled to invite you to the most awesome kids' hula hoop event of the year! It's time to put on your dancing shoes and grab those dazzling hoops for an unforgettable workshop of hula hoop magic! No registration required.

The BenAnna Band, Thursday, July 31 @ 10:30am
Join us for this super-fun, high energy, interactive music concert that is sure to have the whole family up dancing! No registration required.

Weekly / Monthly Events for Teens

Into the Dungeon, Mondays @ 2 - 4pm
Registration Required
Roll for initiative as we bring to life stories from your favorite series! Into the Dungeon is a single event adventure using the Fate tabletop role-playing system to insert yourself into a story set in worlds we know and love. Each week will play out challenges with player choices and chance writing the story!! This is great for regular players to try a new system, and for people to try out games like D&D. Sign up and see what adventure awaits! Each adventure will play out twice, please only register for one of the dates.

Summer Skill Up, Tuesdays @ 4pm
All ages are welcome to level up their knowledge by trying a new skill! Every week we will be providing a new small project to practice, learn, and grow! All Supplies are provided. No registration required.

Game Bytes Overdrive, Wednesdays @ 3:30 - 5:30pm
Game Bytes is Leveling Up for a summer of FUN! Bring a snack and join us for two hours of casual co-op and solo play. Bring your own device or play on the big screen! No registration required.

Summer Concert Series, Wednesdays @ 6pm
Join us Wednesday evenings on the library patio all summer long for live music for all ages!
July 2: Jamie Barrett
July 9: Kat Chapman
July 16: DJ Sam & Andy
July 23: Jeff Roy
July 30: The Oh Mys Band

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, all while eating snacks and getting volunteer hours. It's a win-win-win! No registration required.

Service Squad, Thursdays @ 1pm
Teens looking for community service are invited to join the Youth Services Department to help strategize and prepare crafts and activities for storytimes and events! This is an ideal opportunity for creative, organized, crafty teens who love to take initiative. No registration required.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Sunday, May 25, 2025

Franklin Library News & Events for June 2025 (part 3 of 5)

Special Events for Kids & Families 

Petite Picassos, Monday, June 2 @ 4pm
Registration Required
Join Miss Lily and create your very own step-by-step painting of a colorful gumball machine! This paint party is a great fit for children ages 6 through 12! All materials will be provided. The same painting will be taught on June 2 and June 16 - please sign up for only ONE of these dates!

Franklin Porchfest 2025, Saturday, June 7 @ 12 – 6pm
Porchfest is coming back to Franklin, MA! Come spend the day in Franklin’s beautiful Cultural District while listening to live music. Musicians and bands of all genres will be performing on porches and patios throughout the district. Be sure to check out the following performers throughout the day at the library:
12 – 1pm: Tommy Feeley
1 – 2pm: Jamie Barrett
2:30 - 3:30pm: Dave Perry
4 – 6pm: Jeffrey Scornavacca
In the event of inclement weather, the rain date will be Sunday, June 8.

Animal Affair, Monday, June 9 @ 1 – 3pm
Make some new furry or feathered friends when the Animal Affair Traveling Petting Zoo visits the Franklin Public Library!  Everyone is welcome to pet, brush, feed, hold, and play with the animals! Participants are taught the proper way to hold and handle the animals.  Animal Affair will be bringing ducks, chickens, goats, pigs and rabbits! No registration required.

Strawberry Stroll on the Library Lawn, Friday, June 13 @ 4 – 8pm
This year the Strawberry Stroll extends all the way to the Library Lawn! We are celebrating with inflatables, summer reading signups, and more! No registration required.

Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration, Saturday, June 14 @ 10:30am – 12:30pm
Join the library for an epic start to the summer, featuring balloons, inflatables, games, and a foot stomping musical performance by the Moonbellies! No registration required.

Drum Circle with Dave Curry, Saturday, June 14 @ 2pm
Enjoy a hand-drumming workshop for all ages! This live event will explore different drumming styles from across the globe, celebrating the universality of this much-loved instrument. No registration required.

Legendary Foam Party, Monday, June 16 @ 1pm
We're bubbling with excitement! Enjoy some tunes and sudsy fun with Legendary Foam. (Don't forget your towel!) No registration required.

Petite Picassos, Monday, June 16 @ 4pm
Registration Required
Join Miss Lily and create your very own step-by-step painting of a colorful gumball machine! This paint party is a great fit for children ages 6 through 12! All materials will be provided. The same painting will be taught on June 2 and June 16 - please sign up for only ONE of these dates!

Touch-a-Truck, Tuesday, June 17 @ 1 – 3pm
It's a half day for public schools and we're celebrating the start of summer! Join the Fire, Police, and DPW in the library parking lot for a special touch a truck event. No registration required.

Toe Jam Puppet Band, Wednesday, June 18 @ 1pm
Join the Toe Jam Puppet Band for a rockin' concert at the Franklin Public Library! This hilarious show is sure to have the whole family laughing along. No registration required.

Rainbow Slime, Friday, June 20 @ 1pm
Enjoy a relaxing and fun craft of slime with a rainbow of glitter options! No registration required.

Under the Sea Party, Saturday, June 21 @ 1 – 3pm
Dive in for an epic afternoon of ocean fun for the whole family! Enjoy a variety of games, crafts and more. No registration required.

Science Chefs: 3D Printers, Monday, June 23 @ 3pm
1 part food, 1 part science, and unlimited fun! We will be exploring the workings of a 3D printer by being one ourselves! We will be using Icing for this exercise so dress for mess. No registration required.

Mr. Vinny’s Giant Bubbles, Monday, June 23 @ 4pm
Mr. Vinny, using giant bubble wands designed and constructed by the Bubble Guy himself, will gather kids for an hour-long game of watch, chase, and pop the bubbles! No registration required.

Summer Skill Up, Tuesday, June 24 @ 4pm
All ages are welcome to level up their knowledge by trying a new skill. Every week we will be providing a new small project to practice, learn, and grow! All Supplies are provided. Young children may need an adult to help. Enjoy crafting a Custom Journal to capture all your summer memories! No registration required.

Flying High Dogs. Wednesday, June 25 @ 10:30am
Join us on the Library Lawn for extreme tail wagging fun for the whole family! Mike Piazza and his team of Border Collies are set to impress with their Frisbee tricks and more. No registration required.

DJ Dance Party, Wednesday, June 25 @ 6pm
Presenting the Library Summer Concert Series! Join us Wednesday evenings on the Library patio all summer long for live music for all ages. No registration required. 

Puzzle Mania, Thursday, June 26 @ 5pm
Registration Required
Join us for a family-fun puzzle challenge! Bring your family and work as a team to see how quickly you can complete a 500 piece puzzle! Please submit only 1 registration per family.

Family Line Dancing, Friday, June 27 @ 4pm
Get ready to slide, clap, and shake with the whole family! Join us for a high-energy dance party featuring easy-to-follow favorites like the Cha Cha Slide, Macarena, and more. No experience needed—just bring your best moves and a smile. Perfect for fun for the whole family! No registration required. 

Elijah T. Grasshopper Band, Saturday, June 28 @ 11am
Join Elijah T. Grasshopper, Emma "Go-Go Green" Bean, and their puppet pals for some super-duper interactive music and a hopping good time! Ideal for kids Ages 2-8. No registration required. 

Mario Kart Tournament, Saturday, June 28 @ 1 – 4pm
Registration Required
Ready… Set… Go for gold! Join solo or as a team in Mario Kart 8 with all courses, characters, and parts unlocked! Bring the noise as 30 racers vie for the cup! During the tournament, enjoy Mario crafts and activities to level up the fun. Teams, please register as one person - you'll trade off drivers as a single entity within the bracket.

Mobile Mini-Golf, Monday, June 30 @ 3 – 6pm
Bring your friends and family and we will provide the rest. Join us as we transform the library into a Mini Golf course that is fun for all ages! Children under the age of 14 MUST be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.


Monday, May 19, 2025

Library events for kids, teens, and families the week of May 19, 2025

Check out all the fun happenings for kids, teens, and families this week at the Franklin Public Library!

Library events for kids, teens, and families the week of May 19, 2025
Library events for kids, teens, and families the week of May 19, 2025

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Attention Parents: Check out the Interent Safety event April 3; it comes with free kid care & a meal

Vis Donna Grady:

"Franklin Community,
Most of you know me as the President of the Franklin Education Association. I'm also Chair of the Massachusetts PTA Health, Safety and Wellness Committee.
Attention Parents: Check out the Interent Safety event April 3; it comes with free kid care & a meal
Interent Safety event April 3
THIS coming Thursday, April 3, from 5:30 -7pm at FHS, my committee is hosting a FREE Family Safety Awareness Forum about Online Safety and CyberBullying. Our doors open at 5:30 for child care, with the adult program running from 6-7pm. We have food for the kids and adults and activities for the kids. We're giving away an IPad as well.
Please come learn how to identify online dangers and how to protect your kids and family."


You can listen to Donna & I talk about the importance of this event

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Family Science Night - April 10

Family Science Night - April 10
Family Science Night - April 10
Family Science Night – Free Event! 

Join the FHS Science National Honor Society on Thursday, April 10th, from 5:30–8:00 PM for an exciting night of interactive experiments, hands-on activities, and live demonstrations!

Theme: Movie Night! Each science group—covering topics from biology to forensics—has chosen a movie to bring their subject to life.

FREE ENTRY! This event will be accepting donations for the Franklin Food Pantry.

Bring your family and friends for a night of science, fun, and discovery—we can’t wait to see you there! 




Monday, February 10, 2025

Hail, hail, the gang's all here; this "gang" cares about the Library and what they offer (audio)

FM #1378 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1378 in the series. 


This session shares my conversation with Felicia Oti, Director of the Franklin Public Library. We were joined by many of her staff, see the list of names below. We had our discussion virtually on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.


I opened the conversation with my recitation of “Hail, hail, the gang's all here… what the heck do we care now?”  We all care about the Franklin Public Library which is why we are here now, and are about to find out some of the breadth of services they cover.


  • Felicia Oti, Library Director

  • Allison Smith, Deputy Director

  • Kara Naff, Circulation Supervisor

  • Vicki Earls, Head of Reference 

  • Mitzi Gousie, Public Services Librarian

  • Caleigh Keating, Youth Services Librarian


Among the many services the Library offer are:

  • Digitization of Franklin History

  • US Citizenship test prep

  • Subscription to Khan Academy

  • Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) both a opportunity that provides training for those that volunteer , as well as a service for those with income less than 65K to file their taxes

  • Decodable books for beginning readers now in the library

  • Citizen science kits co-sponsored by Conservation Commission

  • From Mass Cultural Council, Franklin Cultural Council & Franklin  Cultural District come grant funded programs, including a typewriter orchestra concert coming in April


The show notes include links to the Library page and to the calendar of events where registration for some of the events is required/recommended.


The recording runs about 58 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1378-franklin-public-library-group-shares-highlights-02-05-25/



--------------


Franklin Public Library page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library 


Event calendar -> https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events 


English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

https://franklinma.gov/313/English-for-Speakers-of-Other-Languages-


Prior recording April 2020 #248

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/04/fm-248-franklin-public-library-staff.html 


-------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.


How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

  • If you don't like something here, please let me know

  • And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do


Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.


For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 


If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

------------------


You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"


Hail, hail, the gang's all here; this "gang" cares about the Library and what they offer (audio)
Hail, hail, the gang's all here; this "gang" cares about the Library and what they offer (audio)

Friday, January 31, 2025

Franklin Library News & Events for February 2025

Library Hours 
The Library's hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sundays 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Library will be closed Monday February 17 for President's Day.

Franklin Public Library's 2025 Reading Challenge!
February: Celebrate love in all its forms!
For complete details and to sign-up, visit our website! Grand prizes made possible by the Friends of the Franklin Library.

Franklin Reads
"One Book, One Community"
The goal of the Franklin Library's One book, One Community program is to help build a better sense of fellowship through a shared reading experience. Starting February 1, we'll be reading Erasure by Percival Everett, winner of the 2024 National Book Award for his novel James! Pick up a copy by the circulation desk or through the library catalog.
 

Franklin Library News & Events for February 2025
Franklin Library News & Events for February 2025 


Museum Passes
Now is a great time to reserve passes to the area's most popular museums, aquariums, and more! Passes are available to be reserved up to thirty days in advance.

Franklin Library Book Sale
Friday, February 14th, 1:00-5:00pm.   Saturday, February 15th, 9:00am to 12:00 Noon
All books are just one dollar!
Bag Sale - $5 A Bag—Saturday, February 15th, from 1:00-4:00pm
Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!

Franklin Library ESOL & Adult Literacy Program
Volunteer tutors needed! To volunteer please be at least 18 years old, have a High School diploma, & speak English clearly.  No prior teaching experience needed!   Volunteer tutors and students do not need to be Franklin residents. For more information and/or to sign up, please visit the library's website.

Franklin Public Library VITA: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
Site Opening Saturday February 1
The IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax return preparation to qualified individuals. Qualified individuals generally includes: people who generally make $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities; and limited English-speaking taxpayers. This is a walk in site with potential wait times. Learn more here or email site coordinator Mitzi Gousie at mgousie@minlib.net.

**LIBRARY EVENTS**

Weekly/Monthly for Children

Move Along! Mondays @ 10:30AM (Ages 0-5)
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, 4:00-6:00 PM (Ages 7+)
Registration Required
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 12 and up). Email Mitzi Gousie at mgousie@minlib.net to register.

Cool Cruisers! Tuesdays @ 9:30 AM
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 this fun age of exploring is very different from their first few months, so join us for a special playgroup just for this exciting time. No registration required.

Pre-K Pals! Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 10:30AM (Ages 3-5)
This 30-minute program for kids ages 3-5 is a perfect jump-start for kiddos that are approaching school-age! Stories, music, movement, and engaging activities designed to prepare kids for a school environment. No registration required.

Toe-Tapping Tots! Tuesdays @ 4:00PM (Ages 2-5)
Let's play some music and get those toes tapping! Join us for a 30-minute energetic, interactive, and creative movement based storytime. From tip toeing, twirling and skipping to jumping and tapping, we will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence. No registration required.

Story Tots! Wednesdays @ 10:30AM (Ages 18 mos. – 3yrs)
Enjoy thirty minutes of interactive stories, songs, and fun! No registration required.

Bookworm Bounce! Wednesdays @ 4:00PM (Ages 0-5)
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.

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. No registration required.

Pre-K Pals! Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 10:30AM (Ages 3-5)
This 30-minute program for kids ages 3-5 is a perfect jumpstart for kiddos that are approaching school-age! Stories, music, movement, and engaging activities designed to prepare kids for a school environment. No registration required.

Artsy Afternoons Thursdays @ 4:00 PM (Ages 5-11)
Registration Required
Join local instructor Sharon Carloni for this step-by-step craft specifically for kids! All materials will be provided as we study art history through the creation of unique and beautiful artwork. You must register for each date separately.
This month's projects are:
Feb 6: Quilt cut paper design artist Harriet Powers
Feb 13: Folk art paper
Feb 20: Jim Dine heart design
Feb 27: Abstract tape painting

Rockin' Rhythms! Thursdays @ 4:00PM (Ages 0-5)
Put on your dancing shoes and join Miss Bree for 30 minutes of dancing fun for the whole family! This upbeat, high-energy and interactive program will help kids develop coordination, rhythm and flexibility in a fun and engaging way. No registration required.

Barefoot Ballet! Thursdays @ 5:00PM (Ages 6-8)
Registration Required
Calling all aspiring ballet dancers! Join Miss Bree for this special 6-week introductory ballet class. Ballet shoes and attire are not required, but please wear comfortable clothes. Registration is for all 6 dates. Dates for this session are: January 9, 16, 23, 30 and February 6, 13.

Happy Feet! Alternating Fridays @ 10:30AM (Ages 0-5)
Let's play some music and dance! Join us for a 30-minute energetic, interactive, and creative movement based storytime. Laughter and giggles are definitely expected! No registration required.

Move Along! Alternating Fridays @ 10:30AM (Ages 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! Alternating Saturdays @ 10:30AM (Ages 0-5)
A weekend storytime for littles and their grown-ups. Let's play some music and dance! Laughter and giggles are definitely expected during this energetic, interactive and creative movement based class. No registration required.

Special Events for Kids & Families

Kids Take & Make: Yarn Heart Garland! Available Starting Saturday, February 1
Love is in the Air! Starting Saturday, February 1st stop by the library to pick up your very own Yarn Heart Garland Kit. Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own seasonal décor. SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. *LIMIT 1 PER CHILD*

Puzzle Mania! Saturday, February 1 @ 1:00PM
Registration Required
Let's kick-off the month of love with a family-fun puzzle challenge! Bring your family and see how quickly you can complete a 500-piece puzzle.

Petite Picassos! Monday, February 3 @ 4:00PM (Ages 6-12)
Registration Required
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Miss Lily by creating a painting of some festive lanterns! All materials will be provided. The same painting will be taught on February 3rd and February 10th - please sign up for only ONE of these dates.

Doggie Tales! Monday, February 3 @ 4:00PM (Grade 1+)
Registration Required
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. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! We have 6 slots of 10 minutes each. Please only register for 1 slot per month (siblings should share a time slot).

Galentine's Jewelry Making! Wednesday, February 5 @ 5:30PM (Grades 3-5)
Registration Required
Join Paulina Teng of Comer Teng Studio for a fun jewelry making workshop!

Lunar New Year Celebration! Saturday, February 8 @ 10:30AM
It's the year of the snake! Come celebrate at the library with crafts, games, snacks and more.

Girl Scouts World Thinking Day! Saturday, February 7 @ 12:00-2:00PM
Come learn about different countries and visit the booths set up by the girl scouts!

The Poop Museum! Monday, February 10 @ 1:00PM
It's a half-day for the Franklin Public Schools! Join us as we celebrate National Poop Day with a special visit from the Poop Museum! Susie's unique presentation will have kids and their grownups laughing AND learning.

Petite Picassos! Monday, February 10 @ 4:00PM (Ages 6-12)
Registration Required
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Miss Lily by creating a painting of some festive lanterns! All materials will be provided. The same painting will be taught on February 3rd and February 10th - please sign up for only ONE of these dates.

Doggie Tales! Monday, February 10 @ 4:00PM (Grade 1+)
Registration Required
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. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! We have 6 slots of 10 minutes each. Please only register for 1 slot per month (siblings should share a time slot).

Family Yoga! Tuesday, February 11 @ 5:00PM
Join Katie from Sprouting Tree Yoga for some Family Yoga! This class is all about connecting with your little ones.

John Higby: Yo-Yo-Guy! Saturday, February 15 @ 1:00PM
John Higby is the Yo-Yo Guy! He has performed his unique high-energy comedy yo-yo show in 26 countries from New Zealand to Japan, holds the world yo-yo champion title and 4 Guinness World Records. The Yo-Yo Guy is an interactive performance with yo-yos, unicycle, and a giant yo-yo that John walks on! Specializing in family shows, this show is great for all ages.

Juice and Jelly Funtime Band! Tuesday, February 18 @ 10:30AM
It's time to rock! Prepare for toe-tapping, belly-laughing fun with the Juice and Jelly Funtime Band. Rockin' music for the whole family!

After School Studios! Tuesday, February 18 @ 4:00PM (Ages 10-18)
Registration Required
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Miss Lily by creating a painting to ring in the Year of the Snake! All materials will be provided. 

The BenAnna Band! Wednesday, February 19 @ 10:30AM
Join us for this super-fun, high energy, interactive music concert that is sure to have the whole family up dancing!

Pajama Storytime! Wednesday, February 19 @ 6:00PM
Put on your coziest jammies and join us in the library for an evening storytime! We'll get our wiggles out and then calm our bodies for a restful night of sleep. All ages welcome.

Mr. Vinny Shadow Puppets! Thursday, February 20 @ 10:30AM
Mr. Vinny from the Toe Jam Puppet Band presents a dynamic and hilarious family show! Mr. Vinny specializes in storytelling with unique puppets. Get ready for lots of jokes and audience participation, and a few fun surprises!

The BaNannies! Friday, February 21 @ 10:30AM
Kids and families of all ages are invited to join us for a special concert with The BaNannies! Be ready for music, laughter, dancing, and loads of silly fun for the whole family.

Teddy Bear Workshop! Friday, February 21 @ 1:00PM AND 2:00PM
Registration Required – 1:00PM
Registration Required – 2:00PM
Come to the library and make your very own teddy bear - no sewing needed! Each child will get to hand-stuff their new teddy bear, then make a wish on a rainbow star before tucking it safely inside their new friend. All materials will be provided. *Limit 1 bear per child*

Winter Beach Party! Saturday, February 22 @ 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, @ 4:00-6:00 PM (Ages 7+)
Registration Required
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 12 and up). Email Mitzi Gousie at mgousie@minlib.net to register.

Code Club! Wednesdays @ 4:00 PM (Ages 8+)
This is an after school hour of code focusing on exploration of computer programming through play. This is not a classroom. This is a playground where Coders have access to: optional tutorials & walkthroughs, monthly challenges, and mentoring in their coding journey. All levels of skill are welcome and personal projects are encouraged! This can be a great way to dip your toes in the pool and see what learning to code can do for you. Let us know if you need technology from the library and join the mailing list for news about this program by filling out the form on our website.

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! Thursdays @ 4:00PM
Bring a snack and let's play! Bring your own devices or try a retro game while we talk shop about the latest and greatest in Video Games. New Releases, Events, Streamers, Speed Running and more. No registration required.

Special Events for Teens

Teen & Adult Take & Make: Nail Heart! Available Starting Saturday, February 1
Let's Celebrate Love! Starting Saturday, February 1 stop by the library to pick up your very own Nail Heart kit. Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own seasonal décor. SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. *LIMIT 1 PER PERSON*

Teen Cookie Decorating! Monday February 10 @3:00PM (Ages 12-18)
Teens! Join us on this half-day off from school as we decorate cookies!

Chocolate Around the World Tasting! Wednesday, February 12 @ 5:30PM (Ages 12-18)
Join us as we taste our way around the world of chocolate! We'll have samples from different countries, and we'll vote on our favorites.

After School Studios! Tuesday, February 18 @ 4:00PM (Ages 10-18)
Registration Required
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Miss Lily by creating a painting to ring in the Year of the Snake! All materials will be provided.

Teen Murder Mystery Party! Saturday, February 22 @ 1:00PM (Ages 12-18)
Join us and help solve a murder mystery! Interview the suspects, find out who had the motive, means, and opportunity, and make your accusation.

Events for Adults

Teen & Adult Take & Make: Nail Heart! Available Starting Saturday, February 1
Let's Celebrate Love! Starting Saturday, February 1 stop by the library to pick up your very own Nail Heart kit. Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own seasonal décor. SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED. Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. *LIMIT 1 PER PERSON*

English Conversation Group, Tuesdays beginning February 11 @ 6:30pm
Looking for a casual, low-stress place to practice your English language skills? Join us on Tuesday evenings for a friendly group chat with your fellow English learners. Please note: this group is meant for folks who have a basic grasp of English and are looking for conversational practice, not early beginners. A tutor will be present to answer questions and help, but the focus will not be on formal instruction. No registration required.

Knitting Group Fridays, 10:00am to 12:00pm
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.

Table Top, Alternating Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 6:00 PM
Registration Required. No Experience Necessary.
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 Tabletop Role Playing Games for Adults. Email mgousie@minlib.net to sign up and/or get more info!

Painting for Adults, Saturday, February 1 @ 1:00PM
Registration Required
Are you feeling creative? Join Miss Lily to create your very own step-by-step painting of a covered bridge! All materials will be provided.

The Weekend Watercolor Sunday, January 5 & 19 @ 2:00 PM
Registration Required
Relax with Sharon Carloni during a Sunday painting class for adults 18 and over.
Project Details: 
Feb. 2 - Heart design (Jim Dine)
Feb. 16 - Winter landscape

Ethics of Chocolate: A Talk & Tasting, Thursday, February 6 @ 6:30PM
Registration Required (for tasting portion of the program only)
As the American consumer becomes more attuned to where their food comes from, concerned chocoholics find themselves feeling a new sort of guilt when enjoying their favorite indulgence as ethical issues regarding how and through what means it was sourced arise. In this program, we'll trace the chain of cocoa custody back to its questionable origins while examining the major world market players, and help you become a more educated consumer in the process!

Craft Along for Adults, Saturday, February 8 @ 3:00PM
Registration Required
Get crafty at the library! Adults of all ages and craft ability levels are welcome to join us for this new program. One Saturday each month we'll complete a new DIY, creative craft. All supplies provided. Because adults deserve arts & crafts fun, too! This month: Folded Book Art Hearts

Chess Group, Sundays, February 9 & 23 @ 2:30 PM
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 & tactical abilities, and improve endgame skills. Sets will be available. No registration is required and there is no fee.

Community Game Night, Tuesday, February 11 @ 6:00 PM
Try a 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.

Friends of Franklin Library Meeting, Tuesday, February 11 @ 7:00 PM
Love the Library? Then how about joining the Friends and attending our next meeting! Contact the FOFL at: fofl02038@gmail.com.

Chocolate Tasting, Thursday, February 13th @ 6:30PM
Registration Required
New England, and Massachusetts in particular, has been a candy crown jewel since colonial times. Join us in tasting various chocolate types from across the commonwealth as we explore the various types and concentrations available!

JUNTO Non Fiction Book Club, Thursday, February 20 6:30PM
The JUNTO (from the Spanish junta or assembly) was a club for mutual improvement established in 1727 by Benjamin Franklin. Franklin Public Library's JUNTO Book Club is a place to discuss a book of the month and share our insights from the book and beyond! The February book is Caste by Isabel Wilkerson. Get a physical or digital copy through the library catalog.

Metrowest String Quartet Concert, Saturday, February 22 @ 2:00PM
Join us in welcoming the Metro-West Symphony Orchestra! A quartet of their amazing cohort will perform a few pieces by composers from around the world and give us an inside look at the history and instruments involved. No registration required.

From Friends of the Franklin Library

Last Call for Fudge Orders! Orders are being accepted through Thursday, February 6 . CLICK HERE to start your fudge order. (If you don't have time for mailing in your order via USPS, contact the Friends via email at fofl02038@gmail.com or text (508-272-4597) to find out about last minute options for ordering.)

Fudge Pickup Times: Stop by the library on Tuesday, 2/11 from 9:00-10:30am or 5:30-7:00pm, or Wednesday, 2/12 from 4:00-5:30pm to pick up your fudge. The Friends THANK YOU for your support of our 3rd annual fudge fundraiser!

February is National Library Lovers Month and what better way to show your love for the Franklin Public Library than by becoming a member of Friends of the Franklin Library! Join us at an upcoming meeting (7pm on Tuesday, February 11 or Tuesday, March 11) to find out how you can get involved. Don't have time to attend meetings? No worries, you can still support our mission and your library by making a direct donation to the Friends. Membership dues and donations are tax deductible. CLICK HERE to become a Friend or make a donation!

For more abbout the Library visit their page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library