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| Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM |
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, May 2, 2026
Free Sober Prom for Norfolk County Teens - June 13, 2026 from 8 PM to 11 PM
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Mitzi shares the insights on the special events at the Library in May 2027 (video & audio)
FM #1733 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1733 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, April 21, 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, May 25 for Memorial Day
Library events for May 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 17 minutes, so let’s listen in.
Video link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKPfVe63_fU--------------
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
May 2026 newsletter - https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/m/newsflash/home/detail/126
-------------
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"
Friday, April 24, 2026
Franklin Public Library: Special Events for Teens & Adults - May 2026
Weekly/Monthly Events for Teens
D&D Club, Mondays @ 4pm
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
Wind Phone Pebble Paint w/ Cultural District, Saturday, May 2 @10am
Come
join us for a creative and meaningful afternoon as we paint pebbles for
our community “rock garden,” a space that will live beside the upcoming
WindPhone installation at Franklin Sculpture Park, set to debut in late
May. Led by Franklin Artist Amy Adams, this is a chance for kids and
adults alike to see how the smallest gesture can inspire moments of
empathy. All are welcome for this free activity! Just bring your
creativity and an open heart. No registration required.
Teen Stress Relief Night, Wednesday, May 6 @ 5:30pm
Join us for a night of relaxation and rejuvenation before those big exams! No registration required.
Craft Supply Swap, Saturday, May 9 @ 1pm
Bring
a bag of your own craft supply donations and/or come to shop Franklin
Public Library's first Craft Supply Swap! More details are listed on the
library calendar. If you are interested in volunteering for evaluation
and sorting, please email mgousie@minlib.net.
Melodious Zach: An Elton John Experience, Saturday, May 23 @ 3pm
Hear
the stories and songs of Elton John in this historical jaunt through
Elton’s music. Featuring early songs like “Skyline Pigeon,” hits like
“Crocodile Rock,” “Hakuna Matata,” and more recent tunes like “I Want
Love.” No registration required.
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.
WindPhone Pebble Paint w/ Cultural District, Saturday, May 2 @ 10am
Come
join us for a creative and meaningful afternoon as we paint pebbles for
our community “rock garden,” a space that will live beside the upcoming
WindPhone installation at Franklin Sculpture Park, set to debut in late
May. Led by Franklin Artist Amy Adams, this is a chance for kids and
adults alike to see how the smallest gesture can inspire moments of
empathy. All are welcome for this free activity! Just bring your
creativity and an open heart. No registration required.
Diamond Art De-Stress, Thursday, May 14 @ 6:30pm
Registration Required
Give
your day some sparkle & zen. Enjoy a meditative diamond art project
with coffee or tea and conversation or quiet as you prefer. All
materials provided. For ages 18+.
Watercolors Workshop, Monday, May 4 & 18 @ 6pm
Registration Required
Relax with a Monday watercolor class with local artist Sharon Carloni for adults 18 and over!
Craft Supply Swap, Saturday, May 9 @ 1pm
Bring
a bag of your own craft supply donations and/or come to shop Franklin
Public Library's first Craft Supply Swap! More details are listed on the
library calendar. If you are interested in volunteering for evaluation
and sorting, please email mgousie@minlib.net.
Craftalong for Adults, Saturday, May 23 @ 12pm
Registration Required
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: Macrame Keychains
Melodious Zach: An Elton John Experience, Saturday, May 23 @ 3pm
Hear
the stories and songs of Elton John in this historical jaunt through
Elton’s music. Featuring early songs like “Skyline Pigeon,” hits like
“Crocodile Rock,” “Hakuna Matata,” and more recent tunes like “I Want
Love.” No registration required.”
Mahjong Meetup, Tuesday, May 26 @ 6pm
Whether
you have a rudimentary knowledge of mahjong or have been playing for
years, we would love to have you join us for an evening of strategy,
luck and fun. This is an opportunity for the novice to hone their skills
and experienced players to share their knowledge. This event will not
include instruction on how to play. If you have your own mahjong set,
please bring it along. Play begins at 6pm, but the fun can start any
time before the library closes! For ages 18+. No registration required.
Get the full schedule - on the Library website - https://www.franklinma.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/126
Friday, April 17, 2026
Franklin Public Library May 2026 Event highlights
May: A Book Set in Massachusetts
Looking for a way to expand your reading habits this year? Join the Massachusetts Center for the Book 2026 Reading Challenge for adults and the library will reward your reading with a coupon for a free book from our book sale! Check out the details on our Reading Challenges page.
Special Events for Kids & Teens
Plush Pet Adoption Day! Saturday, May 2 @ 1pm
Come adopt a reading buddy at the library! Decorate a collar, make an adoption certificate, and enjoy a dog-themed storytime with your new best friend!
Science Night, Wednesday, May 6 @ 5:30pm
Families - join our awesome teen volunteers for a special science night! No registration required.
Join us for a night of relaxation and rejuvenation before those big exams! No registration required.
Join us as we welcome award-winning illustrator, author, and artist Colleen AF Venable to Franklin! Hear all about her creative process and participate in interactive breakout sessions. Photo ops and book signings will be available too. No registration required.
Hairstyling Workshop for Grown-Ups & Kiddos, Saturday, May 30 @ 1pm
Come to the library for a special hairstyling workshop! Learn to do a few special styles on your kiddo’s hair, and leave with a kit to continue building your skills at home. No registration required.
Petite Prom! Saturday, May 30 @ 2pm
Get dressed up and join the library for our very first Petite Prom! There'll be music, snacks, dancing, and an epic prom photobooth! No registration required.
Special Events for Adults
Diamond Art De-Stress, Thursday, May 14 @ 6:30pm
Registration Required
Give your day some sparkle & zen. Enjoy a meditative diamond art project with coffee or tea and conversation or quiet as you prefer. All materials provided. For ages 18+.
Whether you have a rudimentary knowledge of mahjong or have been playing for years, we would love to have you join us for an evening of strategy, luck and fun. This is an opportunity for the novice to hone their skills and experienced players to share their knowledge. This event will not include instruction on how to play. If you have your own mahjong set, please bring it along. Play begins at 6pm, but the fun can start any time before the library closes! No registration required. For ages 18+.
Special Events for All Ages
Wind Phone Pebble Paint w/ Cultural District, Saturday, May 2 @ 10am
Come join us for a creative and meaningful afternoon as we paint pebbles for our community “rock garden,” a space that will live beside the upcoming WindPhone installation at Franklin Sculpture Park, set to debut in late May. Led by Franklin Artist Amy Adams, this is a chance for kids and adults alike to see how the smallest gesture can inspire moments of empathy. All are welcome for this free activity! Just bring your creativity and an open heart. No registration required.
Bring a bag of your own craft supply donations and/or come to shop Franklin Public Library's first Craft Supply Swap! More details are listed on the library calendar. If you are interested in volunteering for evaluation and sorting, please email mgousie@minlib.net.
Melodious Zach: An Elton John Experience, Saturday, May 23 @ 3pm
Hear the stories and songs of Elton John in this historical jaunt through Elton’s music. Featuring early songs like “Skyline Pigeon,” hits like “Crocodile Rock,” “Hakuna Matata,” and more recent tunes like “I Want Love.” No registration required.
Franklin Library Book Sale
Friday, May 15: 1 - 5pm
Saturday, May 16: 9am - 12pm
All books are just one dollar!
Bag Sale - $5 Per Bag
Saturday, May 16: 1 - 4pm
Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!
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.
--------------
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
-------------
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.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
April 2026 events at Franklin Public Library
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Mitzi shares insights on the happenings at the Franklin Public Library during Feb 2026 (video & audio)
FM #1654 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1654 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 Wednesday, February 4, 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, Feb 16 for President’s Day
Library events for February 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 17 minutes, so let’s listen in.
Video link - https://youtu.be/cg5Rs0jBIZw--------------
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
February 2026 newsletter -> https://www.franklinma.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/92
-------------
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"






