The Library will be closed on Saturday, May 24th - Monday,May 26th, 2025 for the Memorial Day Weekend. 

Special Events:

In Person - Mini Renaissance Faire @ the Ashland Library!

Saturday, May 3 @ 10:00 AM—4:00 PM

We are beyond excited to bring our 2nd Annual Mini Ren Faire to Ashland! If you love things Medieval, Pirates, Puffy Shirts, and so much more, this is for you. We’ll have jousts, crafts, vendors, and something for every age. This is not just a turkey leg extravaganza, it is also an opportunity to learn how people lived (and survived) back in the day with demonstrations and hands-on activities. We hope that you’ll bring the whole family (in costume, of course :).

In Person - RomCon 2025 - Romance Authors Festival at the Ashland Public Library

Saturday, May 17 @ 9:30 AM—4:00 PM

It’s our 4th Annual RomCon - Romance Authors Festival - LIVE and IN PERSON! Meet some of your favorite romance authors, get signed books, listen in on panels, play along with romance jeopardy, and mingle with other romance lovers. It’s going to be a fabulous day!

Adult:

Visit our Website Calendar for Additional Info & Registration links: 

https://tinyurl.com/apl-calendars

HYBRID - Romance Book Club

Thursday, May 1 @ 6:30pm

Read an American Romance

Virtual - Declutter series with Jamie Novak: How to Stop Procrastinating and Get Your Decluttering

Thursday, May 1 @ 7pm

Log on for this month’s declutter club zoom when decluttering humorist Jamie Novak shares how to get and stay motivated when decluttering is last on your list. Plus, the ONE WAY that works every time. Then join the live guided tidy-up for a quick jumpstart!

Virtual - African Art Series: Shango to Shonibare: African Art in the Black Atlantic World

Sunday, May 4 @ 2:30pm

Today, we focus on the form, meaning and movement of the Thunder Deity Shango from Africa through the Diaspora (Cuba, Brazil, Haiti), and into the art of the Harlem Renaissance and Civil Rights movement in the United States.

In Person - Paint Night with Ashwini Chitnavis

Monday, May 5 @ 5:30pm

Brushes with varied paint on them

We’re excited to bring Paint Night to Ashland! We welcome Ashwini Chitnavis to host this session where you learn to paint on canvas. No art experience necessary, just an open mind and a can-do attitude.

Virtual - Author Shannon Reed Discusses “Why We Read” (Take Two)

Monday, May 5 @ 7:00—8:00 PM

We had so much fun with Shannon last year, we just had to bring her back! We’ll continue the conversation we were having and bring up new thoughts about why we read. This one is for readers everywhere (and, isn’t that perfect that it’s with a LIBRARY)! 

In Person - Front Street Readers Book Club

Tuesday, May 6 @ 7pm

Read Long Island by Colm Tóibín

Virtual - Portrait Photography 101: Pro tips to taking better photos of people with Deborah Tual

Tuesday, May 6 @ 7pm

*Note: This program will NOT be recorded

Join Deborah Tual, our favorite iPhone and Photography aficionado, to learn the secrets professional portrait photographers use to take amazing photos of people. Look and feel better in photos you take of others and also when you are the subject. Topics include posing, clothing, lighting, and much more. For all skill levels and for all cameras and smartphones

Virtual - Author Andrew Lam Discusses Stories from the Edge of the Sea

Tuesday, May 6 @ 7pm

Andrew Lam discusses the fourteen pieces in Stories from the Edge of the Sea, exploring love and loss, lust and grief, longing and heartbreaks through the lives of Vietnamese immigrants and their children in California.

In Person - Mah Jongg

Wednesday, May 7 @ 6pm

Whether you have a rudimentary knowledge of Mah Jongg 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. 

Virtual - Environmental Book Club

Wednesday, May 7 @ 6:30pm

Read Diet for a Hot Planet: The Climate Crisis at the End of Your Fork and What You Can Do about It by Anna Lappe.

Virtual - Bill Gette: Churchill and Southern Manitoba - A Trip to Hudson Bay

Thursday, May 8 @ 1pm

Bill has led four travel programs to Manitoba, Canada. He explored beautiful areas in the southern part of the province and then traveled to the province’s far northern port of Churchill. At Riding Mountain National Park, he will show you photos of Black Bear, Bison, and many species of breeding songbirds. In Churchill, Bill will take you to Cape Merry for views of Hudson Bay and the Beluga Whales that migrate into the Churchill River in early summer. Bill will also show you photos of many species of shorebirds that nest on the tundra. 

In Person - Women’s Wisdom Circle: Dating after 40s, 50s, and beyond

Thursday, May 8 @ 6:30pm

For this session Meredith Bazirgan will  lead a discussion on Dating after 40s, 50s, and beyond - because it’s never too late! We hope you can join us for this important topic!

Virtual - The Organic Approach by Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens

Thursday, May 8 @ 7pm

Bugs taking over your life? Mold being bold? Weary of spraying the wrong stuff on your food? We’ll help take all the guesswork out of everything.

In Person - Mystery Book Club

Friday, May 9 @ 12pm

Read The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James

Virtual - Friday Night Film Discussion

Friday, May 9 @ 7pm

Watch The Taste of Things (Kanopy)

Virtual - Author and Historian Toni Mount Discusses “How to Survive in Anglo-Saxon England”

Saturday, May 10 @ 10:00—11:15 AM

If you are planning to travel back to the England of Anglo-Saxon times and begin a new life without technology, how will you manage? If you were a king, a thegn or even a slave, what rights do you have under the law? Are women treated well by their husbands, and if you become sick, what are your chances of recovery? How might you earn your living, and the biggest worry: what to do about those fearsome Vikings?

In Person - Card Making with Jan Poppendieck

Monday, May 12 @ 6:30pm

Jan will teach embossing, die cutting, proper stamping, and use of equipment individually and group techniques of creating unique cards.

Virtual - Author Heather Wolf Discusses: Experience Spring Bird Migration to the Fullest

Monday, May 12 @ 7pm

Join Heather Wolf, one of our very favorite speakers and author of “Find More Birds: 111 Surprising Ways to Spot Birds Wherever You Are” and “Birding at the Bridge: In Search of Every Bird on the Brooklyn Waterfront”, as she shares tips for jumping into the nature documentary happening around you, also known as spring bird migration! Learn how to find more migrating birds and witness their fascinating behaviors, as well as cue into birds that will be breeding and raising young in your area. We can’t wait for what will be another fascinating conversation!

Virtual - Garden Design Inspired by Magnificent Gardens with Kerry Ann Mendez

Tuesday, May 13 @ 6pm

Stunning gardens will be our classroom for emphasizing striking design essentials that elevate gardens from ordinary to sublime, regardless of the hardiness zone or sunlight conditions. We will consider texture, movement, color, repetition, focal points, vertical elements and more.

Virtual - Historical Fiction Book Recs with Bestselling Author, Jane Healey

Tuesday, May 13 @ 6:30—7:00 PM

Love Historical Fiction but not sure what to read next? Join bestselling author, Jane Healey (and Ashland fave!), monthly for 30 minutes of pure book recommendations - the best of historical fiction out there! 

In Person - Men’s Discussion Group: Work/Life Balance

Tuesday, May 13 @ 6:30pm

For this session Ben Draper will  lead a discussion on Work/Life Balance. What are the benefits of having a healthier relationship with work? How to create that balance? This is a safe, no judgement zone and we hope you can join us for this important topic. Maybe you’ll learn something, teach something, or just make a friend.

Virtual - Make Your Money Work for You

Tuesday, May 13 @ 7pm

Are you overwhelmed by investing jargon? Unsure of the basic investing principles you should know? Tired of feeling out of the loop and behind? Start your fall off on the right financial footing with Ariel Nathanson, Founder of Finances for Feminists and Certified Financial Education Instructor.

Virtual - Thriller/Horror Book Recs with Bookstagrammer @redreadreviews

Tuesday, May 13 @ 7:30—8:00 PM

Not sure what to read next? Join Jody Blanchette (aka @redreadreviews), monthly, for 30 minutes of pure book recommendations - the best of horror and thrillers out there! 

Virtual - Adult Book Club

Wednesday, May 14 @ 6:30pm

Read Dark Tide: The Great Boston Molasses Flood of 1919 by Stephen Puleo.

In Person - Great Decisions 

Thursday, May 15 @ 6:30pm

Discuss U.S. - China Relations

Virtual - SciFi/Fantasy Book Recs with Kristen of the Fantasy Cafe

Thursday, May 15 @ 6:30—7:00 PM

Love Speculative Fiction, SciFi, and Fantasy but not sure what to read next? Join blogger, Kristen, of Fantasy Cafe for this quarterly session of her recommendations of some of the best SciFi/Fantasy books out there!

Virtual - Beekeeping Basics

Thursday, May 15 @ 7pm

Come see what it takes to be a beekeeper, the equipment you’ll need to set up your first hive, adding bees to your hive, understanding all the work the bees do inside and outside the hive, and honey extraction. Also learn the important role the honeybees play in pollinating about a third of the fruits and vegetables we eat every day!

Virtual - Inclusive and Diverse Book Recs with Bookstagrammer @sometimesleelynnreads

Thursday, May 15 @ 7:30—8:00 PM

Looking for the best books with BIPOC/LGBTQ+/Neurodivergent/Disabled etc. characters or by representative authors but not sure what to read next? Join bookstagrammer, Leelynn Brady (aka @sometimesleelynnreads), monthly for 30 minutes of pure book recommendations - any genre as well as YA and Middle Grade books, as long as they are by diverse authors or have inclusive storylines!

Virtual - Q&A with Romance and Mystery Writer Olivia Waite

Monday, May 19 @ 7pm

Oh, my gosh, we can’t believe we’re going to get to chat with romance author, Olivia Waite! If you haven’t read her books, you are in for such a treat! We’ve been fans of her F/F historical romance books forever - who doesn’t love knitting and celestial mechanics? - and her M/F books are full of heart and humor. We cannot wait for her latest book, “Murder by Memory”, the first in the Dorothy Gentleman sci-fi mystery series! Bring your questions as this is going to be a rapid fire, AMA (ask me anything) Q&A!

In Person - Cook Book Club

Tuesday, May 20 @ 5pm

Cook from Aloha Kitchen : Recipes from Hawai’i by Alana Kysar.

Virtual - Masters of Song: Aretha Franklin: Fame, Faith & Atlantic Records with Clint Edwards

Tuesday, May 20 @ 7pm

Exploring Aretha’s rise through the early R&B and gospel scene in Detroit, and her struggles in New York. We’ll follow the influence of several figures in her life, and how Aretha melded all of these powerful forces into her music to become the Queen of Soul.

In Person - Bio/Memoir Book Club

Wednesday, May 21 @ 11am

Read All the beauty in the world by Patrick Bringley

Virtual - A History of Guinness Beer with Guinness Brewery Ambassador, Mike Reardon, Take 2

Wednesday, May 21 @ 7pm

After some tech issues last time, we’re excited to chat with Mike Reardon again to finish his slides and answer tons of questions! Mike is a Guinness Ambassador - a highly trained beer expert and storyteller who captivates Guinness lovers and audiences with the beer, culinary, and cultural history of this fantastic beer. So, sit back, relax, grab a pint (if you’re over 21), and join us for this wonderful discussion!

Virtual - Transcendentalist Ramble-a photographic journey through nature and thought

Thursday, May 22 @ 7pm

Transcendentalist Ramble-a photographic journey through nature and thought Take a journey with local photographer Bruce Magnuson through the picturesque landscapes and historic locations that inspired some of the most profound thinkers of the Transcendentalist movement.

Virtual - Friday Night Film Discussion 

Friday, May 23 @ 7pm

Watch The Cherokee Word for Water (Kanopy)

Virtual - Champions of Change with Charlotte Gordon

Tuesday, May 27 @ 7pm

Delve into the stories of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucy Stone, and Frances Ellen Watkins Harper. Learn how three women fought for women’s rights, but ended up fighting with each other. Professor Charlotte Gordon returns to Groton to discuss her newest research on these famous suffragettes.

Virtual - Q&A with Romance Author Nalini Singh on “Archangel’s Ascension”: There WILL Be Spoilers!

Wednesday, May 28 @ 7pm

We’re so excited to chat with blockbuster romance author, Nalini Singh, on her most recent Guild Hunter Series book “Archangel’s Ascension”! Since the book has been out for a few weeks, there will be spoilers so come prepared. This will be a rapid fire Q&A about all things SparkleBell - we’ll have our own but we know that Nalini fans are endlessly curious and enthusiastic so we expect this will be a wonderfully raucous discussion.

In Person - Has Anyone Seen $500 Million in Art Lying Around Boston?

Thursday, May 29 @ 6:00—7:30 PM

An hour or so after the 1990 St. Patrick’s Day ended, two men dressed as Boston cops entered the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, stayed for about 90 minutes, and left with 13 pieces of art. None of the priceless items have been found. Numerous suspects have been named over the years but none have been arrested. Many are now dead. Join us for an in-person conversation with author of “Duped”, Bob Ainsworth, as he discusses our everlasting fascination with this unsolved mystery.

Virtual - Art on Thursday: Perennial Muses: Flowers in Art

Thursday, May 29 @ 7pm

This fascinating exploration of flora in art will unveil the language of flowers, revealing how these delicate blooms have shaped our visual culture and continue to inspire artists - and flower lovers! - to this day.

Adult Weekly:

Knit and Crochet Club

Mondays @ 6pm

Walk-In

Gentle Yoga

Tuesdays @ 6pm

Registration is required

ESL Conversation Group

Wednesdays @ 6:30pm 

Walk-In

Children: 

Special Programs:

Clocktown Rockers! 

*For ages 2-5 with a caregiver

Friday, May 9 @ 10:30am

Friday, May 23 @ 10:30am

A special Friday edition of this popular story time! Join Miss Katrina for this new music and movement program! We’ll dance to favorite kids’ tunes, have fun with instruments and other props, and read a story, all while building your child’s early literacy and executive function skills. For ages 2-5 with a caregiver.

Intro to Dungeons & Dragons 

*For ages 8-12

Monday, May 5 @ 4:30—6:00 PM

Monday, May 12 @ 4:30—6:00 PM

Monday, May 19 @ 4:30—6:00 PM

Calling all young adventurers! Join our 4-week (bi-weekly) Dungeons & Dragons workshop and embark on an exciting journey into the world of role-playing games. With the guidance of an experienced Dungeon Master, beginners will learn the basics of character creation, storytelling, and gameplay. Each session will build skills and confidence, with the goal of empowering kids to launch and run their own campaigns. No prior experience needed—just bring your imagination and a sense of adventure! Space is very limited and registration is required.

Little Picassos Club

*Grades 2-5

Tuesday, May 6 @ 4:30pm

Looking to create your next masterpiece? Join Miss Kayla for Little Picassos Club, ideal for kids in grades 2 through 5. Each week, we will learn about a different artist or art style and work on unique art projects, ranging from painting to sculpting and everything in between! Come ready to get your hands messy and let your creativity show! Registration required.

Mother’s Day Craft 

*for families

Thursday, May 8 @ 3:00—6:00 PM

Mother’s Day is approaching, and you’re welcome to join us in the Children’s Room to create something special for whoever it is you’re celebrating that day—whether it’s mom, grandma, an aunt, or all of the above! Drop in anytime between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. to make a special handmade card.

Ashland STEM Club

Saturday, May 10 @ 11:00 AM—1:00 PM

*For grades K-5

A high school student-run workshop that ignites curiosity with hands-on experiments, new innovations and take-home activities. This month, the theme is MECHANICS. Registration is required.

Coding Class for Kids

Saturday, May 10 @ 1pm

Gear up for a tech-tastic adventure with our Coding Class for Kids! Every other Saturday, kids from Kindergarten through grade 5 will dive into the thrilling world of coding, where imagination meets innovation. With hands-on fun taught through an interactive game, your child will master the basics of coding. Whether they’re building games or solving puzzles, this class promises excitement and discovery at every turn. Space is limited and registration is required. 

Chinese Storytime

Tuesday, May 13 @ 6pm

Bring the whole family to the library for engaging stories, familiar songs, a fun art project and a special scavenger hunt, all in Chinese! Registration is requested and all are welcome.

Paint Your Own Flower Pot! 

*for families

Friday, May 16 @ 2:00—4:30 PM

Spring has sprung, and that means it’s time for beautiful flowers to bloom! Come join us to paint and decorate your own clay pot. Plus, you’ll even receive a flower seed and take-home plant care instructions so you can see what sprouts from your pot over time! Drop in anytime between 2:00 and 4:30 p.m. to make yours. Registration is required (so we know how many supplies to have on hand).

Pete the Cat Pizza Party!

*for families

Saturday, May 17 @ 1:00—1:45 PM

Do you love Pete the Cat as much as we do? If so, we want you to join us for our first-ever Pete the Cat Pizza Party! Come hang out, participate in fun activities, listen to some Pete the Cat stories, and of course, enjoy some pizza—Pete’s favorite food! This event will be outdoors if weather permits. For families.

Little Crafters 

*for 0-5 with a caregiver

Monday, May 19 @ 10:30am

Come join the Ashland Mom’s Club for this story time, where little hands get to explore big ideas! Start with a sweet and lively story time, followed by a simple craft that’s perfect for curious minds. Bring your imagination, and let’s make some colorful memories together!

Little Picassos Club

*Grades 2-5

Tuesday, May 20 @ 4:30pm

Looking to create your next masterpiece? Join Miss Kayla for Little Picassos Club, ideal for kids in grades 2 through 5. Each week, we will learn about a different artist or art style and work on unique art projects, ranging from painting to sculpting and everything in between! Come ready to get your hands messy and let your creativity show! Registration required.

Lego Club with Kim the Lego Lady 

*Grades K-3

Wednesday, May 21 @ 4:30pm

Calling all LEGO masters! Join Kim the Lego Lady for an interactive building adventure! Afterward, your awesome creations will be displayed in the library until the next LEGO club! Registration is required and space is limited. 

La Hora del Cuento 

*para familias 

Spanish Storytime 

*for families

Wednesday, May 21 @ 6:30pm

Los invitamos a disfrutar en familia de una sesión de cuentos en español en la biblioteca. Ofreceremos la oportunidad de sumergirse en historias cautivadoras, rimas divertidas y canciones alegres, ¡todo en español! Join us for a special story time, offering families the opportunity to immerse themselves in captivating stories, fun rhymes, and cheerful songs, all in Spanish.