The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Saturday, April 18, 2026
What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, April 18, 2026 ???
The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Poetry among the key Library events this week April 16 - April 18
Friday, April 10, 2026
Read your Favorite Poem at the Franklin Public Library, Saturday, April 18
You can read your Favorite Poem at the Franklin Public Library, Saturday, April 18 at 1:30 PM
Come celebrate National Poetry Month at the Franklin Public Library with a Favorite Poem Reading!
Joy Harjo (US Poet Lauriat from 2019 - 2022)
“When I began to listen to poetry, it’s when I began to listen to the stones, and I began to listen to what the clouds had to say, and I began to listen to others. And I think, most importantly for all of us, then you begin to learn to listen to the soul, the soul of yourself in here, which is also the soul of everyone else.”
Favorite Poem Reading hosted by Steve Sherlock
Choose a favorite published poem that you have long treasured or recently discovered. Share it by reading it to those gathered for this event.
Use the form to sign up to read your favorite poem ->
https://forms.gle/YvfTLzxTYYtQDDDE6
Note: Poems may not be ones you or family members, or friends have written.
Limit: Five minutes reading time.
Note: We’ll be in the Friends Room, in the ‘new’ section of the building. The Book Sale is running in the other section.
Note: The audio of the readings will be recorded for future broadcast by Franklin Public Radio. You can choose to have your reading part of the recording or not.
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
School Committee gets update on Lifelong Learning (video)
- Students scheduled for the pledge got to the meeting for the incorrect 6 PM start and will be rescheduled to another meeting
- Superintendent's report
- substitute nurses being looked for
- Winter sports round up
- earmark funded for middle school library (still needs to make through the budget cycle)
- Innovation labs grant also awarded
- FHS family science night April 9 from 5 to 8 pm
- Lifelong learning update
- For Solutions, the students to teacher ratios; K - 1 to 10, others grades are 1 to 12, 1 to 13
- Footlighters program hiring for, trying to fulfill that position, complications in the hiring process had hindered the hiring to date. Still being worked
- Over 900 adults taking part, a wide variety of offerings from sports to arts, etc.
- Funding question, Lifelong learning is effectively another revolving fund, fee based and those fees can only be used within the program
- Discussion/Action Items
- A. Student Opportunities Act Plan Vote
- B. Endorsement of Request for Statement of Interest for Development of Strategic Plan
- both passed by 7-0 votes
- Subcommittee updates
- Citizen comment - I stepped up to say thanks for the participation at the Q&A and to provide 2 future dates for their calendars
- April 18, Favorite Poem Reading at the Library
- On May 2, the 3rd annual Jane Jacobs walk, meet at the TV studio walk about 1 mile or so, return to the studio. Discussions of housing, zoning, which are all budget related. It is a generally good discussion with insights shared
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
There is no fooling around with what's happening at the Library in April 2026 (video & audio)
FM #1697 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1697 in the series.
This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
We talk about
Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the month
Closed on Sundays due to budget reduction
Closed all day on Monday, April 20 for Patriot’s Day
Library events for April 2026
In calendar order rather than by category this time around
Registration for those events required should be done through the Town website, Library page. There are nefarious folks trying to convince folks otherwise via Facebook. Be safe, use the official Town and Library pages.
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 19 minutes, so let’s listen in.
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Mitzi Gousie’s email -> mgousie@minlib.net
Franklin Public Library page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library
Library event calendar -> https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events
April 2026 newsletter -> https://www.franklinma.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/109
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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 out. 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"
April 2026 Franklin Library News & Events (P3 of 3) Teens & Adults
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| Library survey needs your input |
Registration Required
Kids ages 10-17 are invited to join us for a weekly Dungeons and Dragons Club! Dungeons and Dragons, also known as D&D, is one of the most complex tabletop games in history. The library will supply dice, rulebooks, and blank character sheets! We will be using the 5th edition books and rules. Other Table Top systems are welcome! Please email mgousie@minlib.net for registration information.
- Dungeon Masters must be at least 12 years old and have experience with Dungeon and Dragons.
- Dungeon Masters are required to choose a premade adventure. Homebrew additions to the adventure are allowed.
- Players and Dungeon Masters are required to be respectful, kind, and attentive to each other.
- Groups of players with a Dungeon Master are welcome to share our space!
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.
Game Bytes, Wednesdays @ 4pm
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.
Special Events for Teens
Favorite Poem Reading, Saturday, April 18 @ 1:30pm
Registration Requested
Come celebrate National Poetry Month at the Franklin Public Library! Choose a favorite published poem, whether it's one you have long treasured or recently discovered, and share it by reading it to those gathered for this event.
- Poems may not be ones you or family members, or friends have written.
- Limit: Five minutes reading time.
Favorite Poem Project™ hosted by Steve Sherlock
Boston Typewriter Orchestra Concert, Saturday, April 25 @ 2pm
It’s time for different type of music in a whole new key! The Boston Typewriter Orchestra (BTO) is a collective performance of rhythmic typewriter manipulation. Enjoy music, comedy, and satire while exploring the definition of ‘musical instrument’. Funding for this program is provided by, The Franklin Cultural District, a local agency funded by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. No registration required.
STORMWARN Spotter Training with NOAA, Thursday, April 30 @ 6pm
Registration Requested
In most years, thunderstorms, tornadoes and lightning cause hundreds of injuries and deaths and billions in property and crop damages. To obtain critical weather information, the National Weather Service (NWS) established SKYWARN®. SKYWARN® is a volunteer program with between 350,000 and 400,000 trained severe weather spotters. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service. Learn about becoming a spotter at this training.
Events for Adults
English Conversation Group, Tuesdays @ 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 very beginners. A tutor will be present to answer questions and help keep the conversation flowing, but the focus will not be on formal instruction. No registration required.
Table Top, Alternating Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 6pm
Registration required (see below). 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.
Knitting Group, Fridays, 10am – 12pm
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! All skill levels are welcome. No registration required.
Watercolors Workshop, Mondays, April 6 & 27 @ 6pm
Registration Required
Relax with a Monday watercolor class with local artist Sharon Carloni for adults 18 and over!
Get crafty at the library! Adults of all ages and craft ability levels are welcome to join us for this 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: Sun Wheels.
Favorite Poem Reading, Saturday, April 18 @ 1:30pm
Registration Requested
Come celebrate National Poetry Month at the Franklin Public Library! Choose a favorite published poem, whether it's one you have long treasured or recently discovered, and share it by reading it to those gathered for this event.
- Poems may not be ones you or family members, or friends have written.
- Limit: Five minutes reading time.
Favorite Poem Project™ hosted by Steve Sherlock
Boston Typewriter Orchestra Concert, Saturday, April 25 @ 2pm
It’s time for different type of music in a whole new key! The Boston Typewriter Orchestra (BTO) is a collective performance of rhythmic typewriter manipulation. Enjoy music, comedy, and satire while exploring the definition of ‘musical instrument’. Funding for this program is provided by, The Franklin Cultural District, a local agency funded by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. No registration required.
Painting for Adults! Saturday, April 25 @ 1pm
Registration Required
Are you feeling creative? Join Miss Lily and create a step-by-step painting of a baby lamb! All materials provided.
STORMWARN Spotter Training with NOAA, Thursday, April 30 @ 6pm
Registration Requested
In most years, thunderstorms, tornadoes and lightning cause hundreds of injuries and deaths and billions in property and crop damages. To obtain critical weather information, the National Weather Service (NWS) established SKYWARN®. SKYWARN® is a volunteer program with between 350,000 and 400,000 trained severe weather spotters. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service. Learn about becoming a spotter at this training.
From the Friends of the Franklin Library
National Library Workers Day – April 21
Did you know that National Library Workers Day is celebrated on Tuesday, April 21 this year? This special day recognizes the dedicated staff members who make our library a welcoming and vibrant place for the community. From helping patrons discover their next great read to offering programs, technology, and a wide range of services, library staff play an essential role in supporting learning, curiosity, and connection. The next time you visit the library—please consider taking a moment to thank a staff member. Their hard work and commitment make everything the library offers possible. The Friends extend our sincere thanks to the library staff.
Give the Gift of Local History
In 2022, members of the Franklin Library Association published a limited-edition book that tells the remarkable story of our historic library and the Town of Franklin. The Franklin Library Association: Building the Future of the Nation’s First Public Library, 1858–2022 highlights the philanthropists and community leaders who supported the library for more than a century. If you would like to own a piece of local history or purchase one for a special someone in your life this spring, please visit www.FoFL02038.org/book.
Thursday, April 24, 2025
You can read your Favorite Poem at the Library, Saturday, Apr 26 at 10 AM
"The poem that each is trying actually to communicate to us lies in the words. It is at least the words that make it articulate. It has always been so."
Choose a favorite published poem that you have long treasured or recently discovered. Share it by reading it to those gathered for this event.Note: Poems may not be ones you or family members, or friends have written.
Limit: Five minutes reading time.
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| You can read your Favorite Poem at the Library, Saturday, Apr 26 at 10 AM |
Friday, June 2, 2023
The Favorite Poem Project Reading for National Poetry Month at the Franklin Library - 04/29/23 (audio)
FM #1002 = This is Franklin Matters Radio, number 1002 in the series.
This session of the radio show shares the audio of the Favorite Poem Project Reading held in the Franklin Public Library on Saturday, April 29, 2023. This was the second poetry event at the library for April’s Poetry Month.
Each reader introduces themselves, announces the poem and author, and briefly why it is their favorite (or among their favorite).
The reading runs about 30 minutes. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1002-favorite-poem-project-reading-04-29-23
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Thanks to Camille Bernstein and jamele adams for conducting the workshop at the first April event.
Thanks to all the poetry readers who stepped up to share.
--------------
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
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"
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| The Favorite Poem Project Reading for National Poetry Month at the Franklin Library - 04/29/23 (audio) |
Friday, April 28, 2023
Reminder: Read your Favorite Poem at the Franklin Library, Saturday, April 29 from 12 to 3 PM
Favorite Poem Project™ with Steve Sherlock and Camille Napier BernsteinChoose a favorite published poem that you have long treasured or recently discovered. Read it for a recording celebrating National Poetry Month for later inclusion on Steve’s podcast.Note: Poems may not be ones you or family members or friends have written.
Limit: Five minutes reading time.
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| There were 2 events scheduled, only 1 remains - Saturday, April 29, from noon to 3 PM |
Monday, April 17, 2023
John Lithgow, Alan Cumming, Malala Yousafzai, Shantell Martin & more will share poems for National Poetry Month on April 26 (virtual)
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