Next Size Up Kids Online Consignment Event

Next Size Up Kids' has been offering in-person consignment events since 2009. In 2021 we created an online version to continue helping families through COVID.

This was such a success that we are excited to continue offering an easy online way for local families to earn cash for their new and used kids items and for local families to purchase these items without breaking the bank... all while helping the environment! Win, win, win!

Find all the BARGAINS you're used to finding at our in-person sale, but this time, you can shop from your couch in your pjs! Can't get better than that!

You'll find clothing (sized infant to young men/young women & maternity), shoes, toys, baby gear, games, puzzles, furniture, décor, books and more!

Join us at our Spring ONLINE event March 6 - 10! -> www.NextSizeUpKids.com

Four Ways to Join the Fun!

1. SELL with Us & Earn Cash
2. SHOP & Save Big on Gently-Used Items
3. CREW & Shop Early
4. HELP Others    

Join us at our Spring ONLINE event March 6 - 10! -> www.NextSizeUpKids.com

Franklin Library News & Events scheduled for November 2022

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 Sunday 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The library will be closed Friday, November 11th for Veteran's Day and Thursday, November 24th for Thanksgiving. The library will be closing at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 23rd . The library will be open on the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Book Sale

Franklin Library Book Sale
Friday, November 18th ,  1:00-5:00 p.m.  Saturday, November 19th , 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon.
All books are just one dollar!
Bag Sale - $5 A Bag—Saturday, November 19th , from 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!

MLN App

Get the free Minuteman Library Network App for quick access to favorite library features on your phone or tablet. With the MLN app, never forget your library card! Store a digital copy of your Minuteman card and manage your checkouts and holds in My Account. Scan a book barcode or search the Minuteman library collections to find and reserve an item on the go. Access your library's digital collections, museum passes, calendar, and more, without ever opening your web browser.

Novelist
Baffled by online book recommendations? Exhausted your streaming queue? Ready for something new? Your next great read is just a click away! Log in to NoveList from the library's website. Find the "Recommended Reads Lists" located on the left side of the home page. Choose from any of the hundreds of great books organized by genre and age level. Whether you're hungry for a weird Western, book club best bet, or royal romance the Recommended Reads lists will keep your to-be-read pile filled. Happy reading!

Volunteer Tutors Needed for ESL & Adult Literacy Program

If you have the time and interest to help adult learners improve their English reading, writing, speaking and listening, we have a volunteer opportunity for you!

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 trained 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. If interested, please contact Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net, or fill out the registration form on the library's website .

From Friends of the Franklin Library
From the Friends… We are having an exciting and productive fall and want to share with you what we've been up to.
 
Friends in the Community: We really enjoyed being out and about in October and meeting so many wonderful people in the community. Our booth at the Franklin Harvest Festival was a hit and besides meeting new friends, we gave out over 400 free books to community members! We hope all are enjoying your "new to you" books. 
 
Just a couple weeks ago, we had two gift baskets up for grabs as part of the Franklin Health Department's Fall Health Fair. Congratulations to Emily H. who won the We Love Downtown Franklin! basket (filled with great items & gift cards from downtown Franklin small businesses) and to the Tracey family who took home the Halloween Bucket of Fun! (filled with fun, seasonal activities & a local bookstore gift card).
 
Looking Ahead: The Friends are excited to be supporting the upcoming teen program, Comics 4 Culture, on Saturday, November 19 th from 3:00-4:00pm. This workshop, developed and presented by a Massachusetts high school student, is a fun and creative way to explore with teens that there is more than one story/perspective when it comes to heroes and comics. We hope all participants will leave this event empowered and confident to share their own stories through comics. 
 
While we have your attention, have you noticed the new outdoor patio space at the Library? The Friends are thrilled to be purchasing tables and chairs for this new outdoor gathering area to be enjoyed by library patrons and staff. Grab a book and enjoy the scenery. 
 
Phew! As we said, we've been busy! Would you like to become a Friend and support these special causes? Your membership dues and contributions are tax deductible and help us support the Franklin Public Library's collections and programs, including our fall activities and purchases outlined above. 
 
Join us Wednesday, November 2 nd at 7:00pm for our next monthly meeting. We welcome new ideas and new Friends!   If you can't attend on November 2nd but would like more information about joining the Friends of the Franklin Library, email FoFL02038@gmail.com for a copy of our membership brochure.

This is the short list, for the full listing visit ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/news/november-2022-franklin-library-news-events

Or check the library calendar for updates  https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library

Franklin Library News & Events scheduled for November 2022 

Franklin Cultural District: book sale, Farmers Mkt, live music, food truck, yoga, and PMC Kids Ride #artshappening here

The recent Cultural Festival brought most of these weekend activities into one place. Now, this weekend we get to move around Franklin to get to the book sale, Farmers Mkt, Bollywood Dance party, live music, food truck, yoga, and PMC Kids Ride. So, yes #artshappeninghere continues!

Wednesday, September 21

11:00am - Franklin Q&A (hybrid event) (Franklin Senior Center)

1:00pm - Memory Café (Franklin Senior Center)

1:00pm - Senior Scribblers (writers group) (Franklin Senior Center)

Thursday, September 22

6:00pm - Charlie Rock (live music) (La Cantina Winery)

7:00pm - Wine Barre 2038 (wine & cheese boards) (Intermission)

Friday, September 23

12:00pm - Book Sale (Franklin Public Library)

2:00pm - Farmers Market (Town Common) Farmers Market

5:00pm - Thee Taco Guy (food truck) (67 Degrees Brewery)

6:00pm - Sioo (live music) (La Cantina Winery)

6:00pm - Anna Freitas Trio (live music) (67 Degrees Brewery)

8:00pm - Matt Zajac's Rock Night (3 bands, live music - ticketed event) (THE BLACK BOX)

Saturday, September 24

7:00am - Fitness Open House (sample classes offered) (Franklin YMCA)

9:00am - Book Sale (Franklin Public Library)

9:30am - Bollywood Dance Party (family event) (Franklin Public Library)

10:00am - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:30am - Fall Storywalk (Franklin Library at the DelCarte Open Space)

11:00am - Yoga in the Taproom (ticketed event) (67 Degrees Brewery)

1:00pm - Bag Sale (Franklin Public Library)

5:30pm - Community Cookout (Franklin Methodist Church)

6:00pm - Matt Zajac (live music) (La Cantina Winery)

6:00pm -  Mike Malone (live music) (67 Degrees Brewery)

8:00pm - Pamela Means - Power of the Protest Song (Circle of Friends Coffeehouse)

Sunday, September 25

8:00am - PMC Kids Ride (Jefferson Elementary School)

1:00pm - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

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

The Franklin Art Association Art Gallery remains open during business hours at Escape into Fiction (Main St, Franklin)

Find the full calendar  https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://forms.gle/oPdi8X3ZbHHyrHzo6

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar
The School district calendar is found  https://www.franklinps.net/calendar-by-event-type/26 

Franklin Cultural District: #Artshappenhere

Register to ride in the Franklin PMC Kids fund raising event on Sep 25

On Sunday, September 25th, the Franklin PMC (Pan Mass Challenge) Kids Ride will be one of 20 PMC Kids Rides throughout the New England area. In 2020 and 2021, the ride was held virtually, but we are excited to host the ride live again this year. 

PMC Kids Rides are mini bike-a-thons that involve children 3 to 14 in the PMC mission by providing them the opportunity to fight cancer just like adults. From a Tikes and Trikes area to a 10-mile ride, the PMC Franklin Kids Ride challenges young cyclists of all skill levels. 

It’s a great way for kids to learn about the importance of giving back and introduces them to volunteerism and fundraising and offers a way for children to become part of the PMC mission in a safe and athletic way. 100% of every rider-raised dollar directly supports cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Since the first ride in 1998, the PMC Kids rides program has raised more than $10 million.

Franklin PMC Kids Ride scheduled

Though this ride takes place in Franklin, we welcome all towns to join. We encourage kids to form teams and ride to honor a friend or loved one who has been touched by cancer. To provide riders with additional motivation, the PMC recognizes participants in the Kids Rides program who go above and beyond their fundraising. 

Riders who raise $450 or more will be honored as a PMC Kids Ride Heavy Hitter, and riders who raise over $950 will be honored as a PMC Kids Ride Breakaway. Each will be honored with a special PMC item and a certificate to distinguish their achievement. In the past, many kids have lemonade stands, car washes, bake sales, and yard sales to raise money for their ride. These kids have so much passion and determination; they feel like they are making a difference, and each year they say, “I can’t wait to ride again the next year”.

Franklin PMC Kids Ride

The Franklin PMC Kids Ride will be held on Sunday, September 25th, from 8 AM to 12 PM. The ride will start and end at the Jefferson School, located at 628 Washington Street in Franklin. Kids can select from a 3, 6, or 10-mile course. Younger participants, not yet on two wheels, can take part in the Tikes and Trikes course in a contained area at the school. 

This area has several fun stations and activities for the little ones, including a car wash, gas station, snack stand, craft table, face painting, and more. Kids can also enjoy an after-ride celebration with music, games, food, and more. There is a $20 rider registration fee which includes a Tee shirt and goodie bag and a $40 fundraising minimum for all riders. 

Register online at https://kids.pmc.org/franklin. All local communities are encouraged to participate. For more information, please contact Lisa Marchioni at lisabxyz@verizon.net

Franklin PMC Kids Ride scheduled as an "in person" event for Sep 25

On Sunday, September 25th, the Franklin PMC (Pan Mass Challenge) Kids Ride will be one of 20 PMC Kids Rides throughout the New England area. In 2020 and 2021, the ride was held virtually, but we are excited to host the ride live again this year. 

PMC Kids Rides are mini bike-a-thons that involve children 3 to 14 in the PMC mission by providing them the opportunity to fight cancer just like adults. From a Tikes and Trikes area to a 10-mile ride, the PMC Franklin Kids Ride challenges young cyclists of all skill levels. 

It’s a great way for kids to learn about the importance of giving back and introduces them to volunteerism and fundraising and offers a way for children to become part of the PMC mission in a safe and athletic way. 100% of every rider-raised dollar directly supports cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Since the first ride in 1998, the PMC Kids rides program has raised more than $10 million.

Franklin PMC Kids Ride scheduled

Though this ride takes place in Franklin, we welcome all towns to join. We encourage kids to form teams and ride to honor a friend or loved one who has been touched by cancer. To provide riders with additional motivation, the PMC recognizes participants in the Kids Rides program who go above and beyond their fundraising. 

Riders who raise $450 or more will be honored as a PMC Kids Ride Heavy Hitter, and riders who raise over $950 will be honored as a PMC Kids Ride Breakaway. Each will be honored with a special PMC item and a certificate to distinguish their achievement. In the past, many kids have lemonade stands, car washes, bake sales, and yard sales to raise money for their ride. These kids have so much passion and determination; they feel like they are making a difference, and each year they say, “I can’t wait to ride again the next year”.

Franklin PMC Kids Ride

The Franklin PMC Kids Ride will be held on Sunday, September 25th, from 8 AM to 12 PM. The ride will start and end at the Jefferson School, located at 628 Washington Street in Franklin. Kids can select from a 3, 6, or 10-mile course. Younger participants, not yet on two wheels, can take part in the Tikes and Trikes course in a contained area at the school. 

This area has several fun stations and activities for the little ones, including a car wash, gas station, snack stand, craft table, face painting, and more. Kids can also enjoy an after-ride celebration with music, games, food, and more. There is a $20 rider registration fee which includes a Tee shirt and goodie bag and a $40 fundraising minimum for all riders. 

Register online at https://kids.pmc.org/franklin. All local communities are encouraged to participate. For more information, please contact Lisa Marchioni at lisabxyz@verizon.net

Spier Family Issues Giving Challenge at Hockomock Area YMCA

Greg and Kathy Spier of Foxborough are once again issuing a $25,000 challenge grant to support the Hockomock Area YMCA’s commitment to address food insecurity in area towns and neighborhoods. The Spiers and the Spier Family Foundation will match every donation made July 25th through August 5th up to $25,000. When the Spier Family Kindness for Kids Challenge is met, it will result in $50,000 to benefit food security initiatives through the Hockomock Area YMCA.  

Every Wednesday, since March 2020, the Hockomock Y has provided free family-size grocery bags valued at $50 each at their branches in Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro to anyone in need. To date, more than 58,776 grocery bags have been distributed.  Additionally, the Y has been working with community partners and school nutrition departments to ensure that children and families have access to healthy meals when school is not in session. This summer, meals are being provided in Milford and North Attleboro.  Since March 2020, the Hockomock Y has provided 420,219 meals to those in need. 

Individuals and families continue to face financial stresses as a result of the pandemic including basic needs like food.  With the ongoing increase in the cost of groceries and gas, we are again seeing an increase in the number of people challenged with food insecurity.  “We are grateful to be part of communities full of caring people committed to improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods by working together to address community challenges,” said Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA.  “I am so proud of the work our Y continues to do in partnership with others to alleviate hunger in our communities through our Food Access initiative.  We are only able to do this through the philanthropic support of a caring community.”

“Greg and Kathy Spier have been passionate, steadfast supporters of our Food Access Initiative and their generous challenge will help ensure that we continue to be here for our neighbors,” added Downs.   

The Spier family’s impact in our local communities runs deep.  Their legacy at the Hockomock YMCA includes the naming of the indoor and outdoor aquatics centers at the Y’s Invensys Foxboro Branch, along with Greg and Kathy’s parents, Sonja and the late Alex Spier. 

Through the Spier Family Kindness for Kids Challenge, Kathy Spier expressed her hope that this challenge “will inspire people to make a gift to help people, spread kindness and provide a caring hand to those who need it in our communities.”

“We were so thrilled with the overwhelming response to last year’s Kindness for Kids Challenge,” added Kathy. “Knowing that the need continues in our community, and proud of how our YMCA is responding, we are offering this challenge again to provide an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and make a difference.” 

Greg Spier shared, “My dad always talked about wanting to leave the world a better place than he found it.  That’s why he and my mom, and Kathy and I, are such passionate supporters of the Hockomock Area YMCA.  We continue to see firsthand the impact our Y is having in responding to so many critical emerging needs.  Kathy and I are so grateful for how our Y is responding to the ongoing challenges of food insecurity.”

“The Hockomock Area YMCA remains committed to ending hunger in our neighborhoods and we join them in these efforts. Please consider a gift and we will proudly match it, July 25th through August 5th,” says Greg Spier. “Thank you in advance from the bottom of our hearts for making a gift and for your generous support.”

Every gift matters. To learn more about this challenge and ways to make a gift, visit www.hockymca.org/spier-challenge

To learn about other ways to support this initiative, please contact Katie Moore at katiem@hockymca.org. 

For more information about the Y’s food securities initiatives, visit hockymca.org/food-access. 

About Hockomock Area YMCA:

Where Cause Meets Community.  At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility. 

 

The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.

(L-R: Kathy Spier, Greg Spier, the late Alex Spier and Sonja Spier)

You can help "Give kids the arts" - a win win!

"Kids today are closed in, lacking human interaction, and riddled with anxieties.
Research shows a global surge in the number of young people reporting symptoms of clinical depression. Our schools are strained, canceling art programs when they need them most. We’re on a mission to change that.

Only 12% of public high schools offered one of the four arts disciplines, and only 17% offered all four. It has been proven that students who study art are 4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and 3 times more likely to be awarded for school attendance.

Transparency is one of our core values, so along with using every penny you donate to supply children with the art supplies they need, we also prove images of each handout on our Gallery page or Social Media accounts.

Donate today to keep kids learning and growing. "

Visit their webpage to donate to the cause -> 

givekidsthearts.org

The 501(c)3 is the inspiration of Ian & Linda Kabat, Franklin residents who also brought the Sculpture Park to Franklin.

Visit the Wrentham Artisan Market and talk with them on July 24:

"Come visit us July 24 from 10-2 Our first fair thanks to Wrentham Artisan Market. " http://southernnewenglandevents.com 

shared from Twitter -> https://twitter.com/l_kabat/status/1547179350512082945 

 

You can help "Give kids the arts" - a win win!

The Franklin Food Pantry could use your help with kid friendly summer snacks

 

Summer Snacks

With children home for the summer, the Pantry is in high need of kid-friendly snacks. Larger size options of snacks, chips, cookies, and crackers would be a wonderful treat for our families.  According to Feeding America, food insecurity is projected to increase 81% this summer for children in Massachusetts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Food costs rise for families, and kids are home and hungry. Along with fresh produce, proteins, and other healthy foods, we also provide our families with kids' bags filled with some snacks and treats! If you are interested in helping to donate, we are in most need of the below items (see image).  Feel free to donate them in our purple bin between Monday and Friday. If you have a larger donation, please call to schedule a time to drop off your donation.

For more information visit the Franklin Food Pantry online -> https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/

The Franklin Food Pantry could use your help with kid friendly summer snacks

Register your kids for this Vaccine Clinic - Mar 16, 2022

The Franklin Department of Health is hosting a vaccine clinic on March 16 for kids ages 5-11.

See flyer for details!

Register here: https://buff.ly/3k6pxaM

https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1499812687248822274

Vaccine Clinic for kids - Mar 16, 2022

Reminder: register now for the Kids COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic - February 23, 2022

COVID-19 Kids Vaccine Clinic 

February 23, 2022

The Franklin Department of Health is hosting another vaccine clinic on February 23rd for kids ages 5-11. The clinic will run from 9 AM - 10 AM or 3 PM - 5 PM at the Franklin Senior Center.

You can register here: https://home.color.com/vaccine/register/franklin

Shared from Town of Franklin page ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/covid-19-kids-vaccine-clinic-february-23rd-2022

February Vacation COVID Kids flyer - Feb 23

February Vacation COVID Kids flyer - Feb 23

February Vacation COVID Kids flyer

Kids Clinic - Feb 23

Shared from Town of Franklin  https://www.franklinma.gov/recreation-department/news/february-vacation-covid-kids-flyer

To register -> https://home.color.com/vaccine/register/franklin

February Vacation COVID Kids flyer - Feb 23

Marble Run Challenge! Tuesday, Feb 1 - Friday, Feb 25, 2022

At the Franklin Public Library; this sounds like fun!

"A special program brought to you by our VolunTeens! Register to play, pick up your kit and complete the tasks to earn materials that you will use to build your very own marble run! Then join us on the 26th to put your design to the test!"

Shared from the Library page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/bulletins/marble-run-challenge

Marble Run Challenge! Tuesday, Feb 1 - Friday, Feb 25, 2022

"The Effects of COVID-19 Restrictions on Children Ages 5-11" survey

"Town of Franklin Health Department has released "The Effects of COVID-19 Restrictions on Children Ages 5-11" survey for residents who are parents/ guardians for children aged 5-11.  The deadline for completion is 2/28. 

"The Town of Franklin Health Department is releasing a survey to all residents regarding the effects of COVID-19 restrictions on children ages 5-11. Parents/ Guardians are encouraged to complete the survey on behalf of their child(ren).

The purpose of this survey is to evaluate the effects of pandemic restrictions on children (ages 5-11) and identify trends in physical activity, eating habits, sleep, and screen time.

Data will be collected by the health department to assist in a Worcester State University interns project. The data is to identify a target population and what education resources needs to be provided to the residents regarding the effects of pandemic restrictions on children ages 5-11.

The deadline for survey completion is February 28, 2022. The survey results will be posted on the Franklin Health Department website. "

Take the survey here: https://t.co/0YexWUexFY

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1485631985502597121

Town of Franklin Health Department COVID survey

Franklin Public Library: January 2022 - News & Events

January 2022 Franklin Library News & Events

Library Hours

The Franklin Public Library will be closed on Saturday, January 1st for New Year's Day, and on Monday, January 17th for Martin Luther King Day. The Library's regular 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 Sunday 1:30-5:00 p.m.

Book Sale

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

Homework Help Program

The Franklin Public Library is now offering its free Homework Help program for grades 1-8. The program takes place Monday through Thursday, 3:00-5:00 p.m. Students will be assisted by either retired teachers or high school students. Application forms for both participants and volunteers are available at the Circulation Desk.

Featured Database: FamilySearch

FamilySearch • Free Family Trees and Genealogy Archives. FamilySearch.org is one of the most popular genealogical resources in the world. The site is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is free and available to the public. Search billions of digital images and indexes of records from all over the world. These records include government and church records for births, marriages, and deaths; censuses; probate records, land records, draft cards; etc. Millions of new records are published on a weekly basis. Franklin Public Library is a Familysearch.org Affiliate Library. When using Familtysearch.org from the library's computers, you will have access to 400,000,000 additional images, not available to you when using Familysearch.org at home.

One Book, One Community Winter 2022

The Franklin Public Library is having a Winter 2022 One Book, One Community program as a way to have the community come together through the reading and discussion of a common book. Beginning January 3rd, we'll be reading The 7  1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton.  Turton's book is a mixture of "Locked room mystery" (a la Agatha Christie), psychological thriller, romance, and...maybe...time travel? That's for you to find out!

Print copies of the book are available at the library, and it is also available through interlibrary loan.  If you'd prefer a digital copy, it's available as both and ebook and audiobook through the Hoopla and Libby apps. Please visit our One Book, One Community webpage to learn more about author Stuart Turton, read the book discussion questions, and experience the online escape room challenge! The library will be hosting a discussion of the book on Tuesday, March 22nd at 7:00 p.m.

Rectifying a Regrettable Ray Oversight, by Alan Earls. Published in the Franklin Observer, December 22, 2021

It took much more than a century, but finally, the women benefactors who actually made the Ray Memorial Library a reality – sisters -- have gotten their due in the form of a handcrafted mahogany pedestal and a modern kiosk and slideshow recently installed facing the Main Street entrance.

Who were these remarkable philanthropists?

In the 19th century, the industrious Ray family rose to prominence in Franklin, building an empire of more than a dozen textile mills, a railroad, and later having a dominant position in the "street railways" (aka inter-urban trolley lines) that linked nearly every community in the region before the automobile came to rule the road.

The Ray men made themselves wealthy and brought widespread prosperity to Franklin and beyond. But it was Annie and Lydia, daughters of Joseph Gordon Ray and Emily Rockwood Ray, who brought a focus on culture to the town and invested their wealth in projects for the public – in particular the 1904 Ray Memorial Library, built for the town in honor of their parents. But their names – the movers and shakers who paid for the structure and established an endowment that kept it functioning at little cost to the town for nearly 80 year – were absent.

Some of that was a result of their own modesty. But the rest is pure historical neglect, particularly after the town took ownership of the library in the 1980s, changing it officially to the Franklin Public Library, though "Ray Memorial" is still the acknowledged name for the great granite landmark that is the distinguishing feature of the institution.

The cure, it turns out, came in part from another long-standing town institution--the Franklin Library Association (FLA), which dates back nearly 150 years. It was the private philanthropic corporation that long funded library operations for the town. Still disbursing funds, now focusing especially on preserving the library's key collections and artifacts, FLA member Nancy Rappa has long been bothered by how little library patrons and people in Franklin in general knew about Lydia and Annie. So, she proposed to do something about it, convincing her fellow FLA trustees to support an interpretive exhibit researched and authored by Reference Librarian Vicki Earls.

The final partner in the project was Rocco Cavallaro, a Franklin-based sign maker and a passionate worker of wood. With cues from Rappa and Earls, he laboriously crafted a pedestal of solid mahogany, even incorporating design motifs from the library and the Ray family crest. That was topped, literally, with a built-in screen with PowerPoint slides created by Earls that displays the story of the Ray sisters, finally making them an integral part of the library.

"I'm so thrilled that this if finally done," said Rappa. "It's long overdue," she added.

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!

Idea Club! Mondays @4:00PM

Join us for a weekly storytime celebration of all the ways we are different and wonderful! We'll read, sing, play and learn about our diverse world and talk about how we can make it kinder and more inclusive!

Dungeons and Dragons Club for Kids! 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!

Animation Nation Anime Club! Mondays, 6:00-7:30PM (7+)

Your weekly dose of anime goodness at The Franklin Public Library! Come watch the latest releases and popular anime shows, ideal for ages 7+!

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!

Homeschool Hangout! Tuesdays from 12:00-2:00PM

Join other local homeschool families in a space dedicated to you! Each Tuesday between 12-2PM, the Friends of the Franklin Library Room will be available for homeschool families to hang out, get work done, and connect!

Toe-Tapping Tuesdays! Tuesdays @ 4:00PM

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 3-5 Meeting time Tuesdays @ 4:00 PM

Spring 2022 Session Sign ups start January 1st on the library website!

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!

Science Junction! 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month @4:00PM

(Also 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the Month for Homeschool families @2:30PM)

FHS Seniors Mani and Vedika are so excited to share their love for science and foster that love in elementary-level kids! Join them once a month for fun science experiments, activities, and more! From dinosaurs to chemical reactions the possibilities are endless!

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 30 minutes of craft and sensory play. For children ages 3 and up that can attend on their own. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to watch from the adjoining room.

Bookworm Bounce! Thursdays @ 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!

Doggie Tales! 1st Thursday of the Month @4:30 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.

Happy Feet! Alternating Fridays @10:30AM (3-5)

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! Alternating Fridays @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!

Lego Free-Build Friday! Alternating Fridays @2:30 (0-5)

Let imaginations run WILD! Enjoy 2 hours of Friday fun time to build what you like with the Library Legos! Cool builds will be displayed on the Library Website & Facebook! ALL Legos are washed in between sessions!

Special Events for Kids & Families

Take & Makes: Book Journals!

Starting Monday January 3rd stop by the library to pick up your very own book journal kit! Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own book journal! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Book Journal Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis!

Tape Town! Saturday January 8th, 10:30AM

Families! Spend an imaginative morning at the library! Bring along a small toy vehicle (or borrow one of ours) and cruise along our "roads" made of tape all through our big meeting room, and enjoy a series of interactive pretend play stations all through the town!

Animation Nation Presents: Saturday Binge! Saturday January 8th 1:00-4:30PM

Animation Nation is Proud to Present "The Saturday Binge"! Multiple hours of a chosen anime on the big screen! Watch the Library Facebook for updates on what title we will be binge watching!

Girls Who Code Parents Open House Tuesday January 11th, 7:00PM

Hey Parents! Are you interested in Girls Who Code? Com to an "open house" hosted by Mrs. Mitzi to ask questions, see the curriculum, learn about the program, and even get signed up! If you want to attend virtually email Mrs. Mitzi at mgousie@minlib.net

"Drive-In" Movie! Saturday January 22nd, 10:30AM

Families! Join us for a "Drive-In" movie (indoors of course!) in our big program room! First we'll decorate our "cars" (aka boxes we've been saving up for the event) then we'll relax and enjoy a movie and some popcorn in our spiffy new rides! You're welcome to bring your own box to decorate, or use one of ours!

The Python Problem! Saturday January 22nd 2:00-3:30PM

Join Miss Mitzi and work on a Python challenge to learn some new expressions, code new applications, or fix broken code. Each session starts with an explanation of a concept or code piece followed by a challenge using that code or concept! Best for grades 5 and up! Previous coding experience encouraged, not required.

Baby Sensory! Saturday January 22nd @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!)

Weekly / monthly Events for Teens

Animation Nation Anime Club! Mondays, 6:00-7:30PM (7+)

Your weekly dose of anime goodness at The Franklin Public Library! Come watch the latest releases and popular anime shows, ideal for ages 7+!

Girls Who Code! Grade 6-12 Meeting time Tuesdays @ 6:00 PM

Spring 2022 Session Sign ups start January 1st on the library website!

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!

Teen Book Bites! Weekly on Wednesdays, 5:30-PM

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!

VolunTeens! 2nd & 4th Thursday of the Month, 6:00-7:00PM (6th-12th Grade)

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!

For more information please contact Bree at bcomeau@minlib.net.

Special Events for Teens

Teen Take & Makes: Bullet Journals!

Starting Monday January 3rd stop by the library to pick up your very own bullet journal kit! Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own bullet journal! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Bullet Journal Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis!

Teen Yule Ball! Wednesday, January 5th @6:30PM

Join the Volunteens for a night of Harry Potter-themed crafts, games, and dancing!

Animation Nation Presents: Saturday Binge! Saturday January 8th 1:00-4:30PM

Animation Nation is Proud to Present "The Saturday Binge"! Multiple hours of a chosen anime on the big screen! Watch the Library Facebook for updates on what title we will be binge watching!

Teen Vision Board Making! Friday January 14th @3:00PM

Teens! Join us for an afternoon of collaging as we envision our year ahead! We will provide all the supplies you need to make an epic 2022 vision board! Just bring your creativity!

Crime Time Mysteries! Saturday January 15th @2:00PM

AGES 13+ Join us for an immersive murder mystery game from "Hunt a Killer" that is told over the course of six "episodes." Each episode contains different clues that you'll use to solve the ongoing investigation! Examine the evidence to uncover critical clues, corroborate alibis, create timelines, and identify each suspect's means, motive, and opportunity! It is not required that you attend all 6 meetings, but since the episodes build on themselves, it is highly encouraged!

The Python Problem! Saturday January 22nd 2:00-3:30PM

Join Miss Mitzi and work on a Python challenge to learn some new expressions, code new applications, or fix broken code. Each session starts with an explanation of a concept or code piece followed by a challenge using that code or concept! Best for grades 5 and up! Previous coding experience encouraged, not required.

Events for Adults

Dark Journeys: Urban Legends with Jeff Belanger, Thursday, January 6, 6:30 p.m.

Have you ever heard a story you didn't think was true, but then thought… what if? Bloody Mary in the mirror? The Hook by Lover's Lane? White Lady ghosts? Stolen body parts? Why do similar stories pop up all over the world? Are they more than just stories?

Come take an entertaining and enlightening virtual journey through the graveyard at midnight with author and folklorist Jeff Belanger. For over 20 years, Jeff has been exploring the unexplained. He seeks out history, folklore, ghosts, monsters, and legends all over the world and in your backyard.

JEFF BELANGER is a storyteller, adventurer, journalist, and one of the most visible explorers of the unexplained today. The author of over a dozen books published in six languages, he is also the Emmy-nominated host, writer, and producer of the PBS and Amazon Prime series New England Legends and the weekly New England Legends podcast. He's the writer and research for the Ghost Adventures series, and he's been a guest on hundreds of television and radio networks and programs, including History, Travel Channel, Biography Channel, PBS, CBS Sunday Morning, NPR, BBC, and Coast to Coast AM. To learn more about Jeff, please visit https://jeffbelanger.com/ .

This program is free and open to the public. No registration is required.

Girls Who Code Parents Open House Tuesday January 11th, 7:00PM

Hey Parents! Are you interested in Girls Who Code? Come to an "open house" hosted by Mrs. Mitzi to ask questions, see the curriculum, learn about the program, and even get signed up! If you want to attend virtually email Mrs. Mitzi at mgousie@minlib.net

Bumbling Through the Hindu Kush: A Memoir of Fear and Kindness in Afghanistan by Author Chris Woolf, Saturday, January 22, 3:00 p.m.

Chris Woolf was a broadcast journalist with the BBC World Service for 34 years. He worked in London, Afghanistan, southern Africa, but mostly in the United States, where he became the News Editor of public radio's main international news show, "The World." (He was on-air for many years as the show's "History Guy.")  His 2021 book, "Bumbling Through the Hindu Kush: A Memoir of Fear and Kindness in Afghanistan" documents his personal experience of war and resilience, stuck behind rebel lines on the wrong side of the mountains, in 1991. In addition to writing, Woolf runs a voiceover company he co-founded here in Franklin in 2018, called The Voice Depot. This program is free and open to the public.

Franklin Public Library Book Club, Tuesday, January 25, 7:00 p.m.

The book for discussion is The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, by Rachel Joyce.              

Harold Fry is convinced that he must deliver a letter to an old love in order to save her, meeting various characters along the way and reminiscing about the events of his past and people he has known, as he tries to find peace and acceptance.

For more information, please contact Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net . Book Club meetings are now taking place both in-person at the Library and on Zoom. To participate through Zoom, please register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0kduuppj0oGd1riTUPnGfsy7Qph0W... .

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.

Take and Make Craft for Adults: Candle Making

Spark a little light this January with a homemade candle! We'll provide votive, wax, wick, instructions and more for a fun pour candle craft for the adult Franklin community. You will only need some basic home goods, and the scent of your choice to enjoy a relaxing craft in the warmth of you own home! Happy New Year! Kits will be available at the Circulation Desk starting Monday, January 3rd.

Shared from Town of Franklin library -> https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/news/january-2022-franklin-library-news-events

Franklin Public Library: January 2022 - News & Events