Showing posts with label teens. Show all posts
Showing posts with label teens. Show all posts

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.


Video link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uk0vR3tdKg




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


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

 Weekly / Monthly Events for Teens

Library survey needs your input
Library survey needs your input
D&D Club, Mondays @ 4pm
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!

Craftalong for Adults, Saturday, April 11 @ 2pm
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: 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

Special Events for Kids & Teens

Science Night, Wednesday, April 1 @ 5:30pm
Families! Join our awesome teen volunteers for a special science night! No registration required!

Eid Celebration, April 4 @ 1pm
Families! Join us for a special celebration of Eid, complete with crafts, music, snacks, and more! For questions/to get involved, email Caleigh at ckeating@minlib.net!

Poem Explosion, Thursday, April 16 @ 1:00pm
Calling all poets! Join us for an afternoon of creative fun as we make all kinds of poems, from cut out magazines, old book pages, and even book spines! Bring your creativity!

Music At The Blissful, Saturday, April 18 @ 10:30am
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!

Local Hero Storytime, Tuesday, April 21 @10:30am
Join the library and our friends from the Franklin Fire Department for a special storytime celebrating our local heroes! Be prepared for fun and surprises!

Superhero Party, Wednesday, April 22 @10:30am
Join us for an epic superhero bash! Feel free to wear your favorite superhero outfit and join us for a series of games, crafts, and hero activities!

Stuffed Animal Sleepover, Wednesday, April 22 @6:00pm
What kind of trouble can a bunch of stuffed animals cause in an empty library? Here’s our chance to find out! Bring one of your favorite stuffed friends to the library for a cozy storytime, then leave them in our care for the evening! When you pick your friend up on Thursday, see what antics they might have caused!

BenAnna Band, Thursday, April 23 @10:30am
Join us for this super-fun, high energy, interactive music concert that is sure to have the whole family up dancing!

Ed Popielarczyk Magic Show, Friday, April 24 @10:30am
Join us as we welcome Ed Popielarczyk for a one-of-a-kind magic show that is guaranteed to leave the whole family impressed!

Rainforest Reptiles, Saturday, April 25 @10:30am
Travel with us to the different rainforests around the world and meet the critters, turtles, snakes and more that call these places home! Real, LIVE Animal Fun for All Ages!

Any updates to the schedule can be found on the Library page -

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"


Monday, January 26, 2026

Franklin Library News & Events for February 2026 (part 3 of 3)

Weekly / Monthly Events for Teens

D&D Club, Mondays @ 4pm
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!

  • Registration for this club is for the September to December season of Dungeons and Dragons Club.
    If missing a session please email: mgousie@minlib.net as soon as possible.
  • Dungeon Masters must be at least 12 years old and have experience with Dungeon and Dragons.
  • Dungeon Masters are signing up to lead a table for ALL 16 meetings between September 8th and December 29th.
  • 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!
  • If you have any questions please email: mgousie@minlib.net
    Franklin Library News & Events for February 2026 (part 3 of 3)
    Franklin Library News & Events
    for February 2026 (part 3 of 3)

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

Interactive Movie! Thursday, February 5 @ 1pm
Families - join us for a special Interactive movie screening! Enjoy popcorn and some fun surprises. No registration required.

The Bad Apples Present: Date Night Concert,  Wednesday, February 11 @ 6:30pm
Join us at the library for an awesome weeknight concert with the Bad Apples! Featuring your favorite love songs, you're sure to fall in love with the library after this evening. No registration required.

Teen Paint Party, Tuesday, February 17 @ 6pm
Registration Required
Join Miss Lily and create your very own step-by-step painting of some sweet candy hearts! For ages 12+. All materials provided. 

Lunar New Year Celebration, Thursday, February 19 @ 1pm
It's the year of the horse! Come celebrate at the library with crafts, games, snacks and more. 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.

Watercolors Workshop Monday, February 9 & 23 @ 6pm
Registration Required
Relax with a Monday watercolor class with local artist Sharon Carloni. For adults 18 and over.

The Bad Apples Present: Date Night Concert,  Wednesday, February 11 @ 6:30pm
Join us at the library for an awesome weeknight concert with the Bad Apples! Featuring your favorite love songs, you're sure to fall in love with the library after this evening. No registration required.

Craftalong for Adults, Saturday, February 14 @ 2pm
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: Hand Made Cards.

Chocolate Tasting, Saturday, February 14 @ 3pm
Registration Required
New England, and Massachusetts in particular, has been a candy crown jewel since colonial times. Come taste various chocolate types from across the commonwealth as we explore the various types and treats!

Painting for Adults! Saturday, February 28 @ 1pm
Registration Required
Are you feeling creative? Join Miss Lily and create a step-by-step painting of a box of chocolates! All materials provided.

Putin's War: His Motives, Claims, and Lies, Saturday, February 28 @ 3pm
Dmitri Yakovlev wholeheartedly supports Ukraine in their fight for freedom and argues that the conflict soon may become the whole world's problem. Explore the history, consequences, and quandaries of the Russia Ukraine conflict. No registration required.


View it on website

Sunday, January 18, 2026

Hockomock Area YMCA Expands Free Teen Fitness Opportunities Through Grant Support

The Hockomock Area YMCA’s Bernon Family Branch in Franklin is proud to announce an initiative made possible through a grant from the Town of Franklin. 

Available now, Franklin residents ages 13 to 17 are eligible for a free six-month YMCA membership, opening the door to programs and experiences that promote youth development, healthy living, and community connection.

YMCA Expands Free Teen Fitness Opportunities Through Grant Support
Free Teen Fitness Opportunities Through Grant Support
This initiative reflects a shared commitment between the YMCA and the Town of Franklin to invest in the well-being and future of local teens. Now in its second year, the program will continue through December 2026. Since the grant program launched, more than 270 Franklin teens have benefited from their free six-month membership, gaining access to fitness facilities, group classes, and supportive coaching in a safe, welcoming environment.

Membership includes full access to the Bernon Family Branch’s facilities—health and wellness center, gymnasium, indoor and outdoor pools and aquatics center, indoor track, and group exercise classes. Teens can also enjoy basketball, pickleball, yoga, spin classes, and more—all at no additional cost to members. 

Learn to Lift
Learn to Lift
Programs Offered at No Cost
In addition to facility access, the YMCA offers programs designed to help teens explore interests, build friendships, and develop healthy habits. Highlights include:

Learn to Lift: Building Confidence and Strength
Learn to Lift is a strength training program for ages 13–16 focused on building safe and effective workouts. Teens will learn proper loading and form, gain confidence in the weight room, and track progress. Strength training is one of the most popular fitness trends today, offering benefits like improved bone health, injury prevention, and long-term wellness.

Learn to Lift is offered at no cost to teens through this grant. Normally priced at $40 per month for members and $80 per month for non-members, the program meets Tuesdays from 4:15–5:00 PM, providing a structured and supportive environment for teens to build strength and confidence.

Learn to Babysit: A.S.H.I. Certification
This certification course is offered at no cost to teens through the grant. It will be held on two upcoming Saturdays, January 24 or February 14 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Y. For more information, email Krystina Edens at Krystinae@hockymca.org

Lifeguard Certification
This blended course includes e-learning and in-person instruction, starting February 8 at the Franklin YMCA. It is also provided at no cost to teens age 16+ through the grant. For more information, email Krystina Edens at krystinae@hockymca.org.

Chris Raymond, Fitness & Personal Training Director, who leads Learn to Lift, shared:
“I’ll be working directly with teens in Learn to Lift, helping them build a simple and safe gym routine. We’ll focus on major movements like Bench Press, Squat, Deadlift, and other compound lifts. My goal is to give them the tips and tricks that set them up for future success in the weight room—and they’ll leave with a routine of four different workouts they can use right away.”
Other Opportunities
Social gatherings that foster connection and belonging
Leadership and community service opportunities to empower youth

Employment Opportunities: Join the Y Team
The YMCA also provides part-time employment opportunities—an additional way for teens to get involved in the Y community while gaining valuable work experience. Positions include lifeguard, swim instructor, swim coach, Child Watch, sports coach, and camp counselors.

Leanne Eggimann, Senior Director of Camp and Youth Sports, explained:
“When I hire sports instructors or camp counselors, I look for enthusiasm and a genuine understanding of the YMCA’s impact in our community. My first job at the Y was as a camp counselor, where I learned how deeply the Y supports families. That experience taught me professionalism and sparked my desire to grow within the organization.”
Teens interested in joining can visit hockymca.org/teens-join-now, stop by the Bernon Family Branch at 45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin, or call 508-528-8708 for more information.

For additional details, please contact:
Kristin Torraco
Membership Director, Hockomock Area YMCA
Phone: 508-528-8708

About the Hockomock Area YMCA:
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.