Closed on Thursday, July 4th and Friday, July 5th for Independence Day

Adult:

Virtual: Armchair Travel To Barcelona, Spain

Tuesday, July 2 @ 10:30am

Over 19 million visitors a year come to Barcelona for its vibrant culture, architectural marvels, beautiful beaches, amazing food and much more. See the sights from a recent visit, and also learn how history and geography make the Catalan region unlike any other part of Spain.

Card Making with Jan Poppendieck

Monday, July 8 @ 6:30pm

Come join us for an evening of card making with Jan. We will learn stamping and card making techniques using our huge stash of supplies. Jan will teach embossing, die cutting, proper stamping, and use of equipment individually and group techniques of creating unique cards.

A Virtual Tour of the Bata Shoe Museum

Monday, July 8 @ 7pm

Feet are the same around the world, but what we wear can be so different! Learn why with a virtual tour of the Bata Shoe Museum! As the only museum in North America dedicated to footwear (located in Toronto, Canada), the BSM showcases 4,500 years of history and nearly 15,000 artifacts in its collection. So put on your comfiest or fanciest shoes and join us (a virtual program in which you don’t have to wear shoes at all!)

Virtual - Book Recs with Bookstagrammer Jody Blanchette aka @redreadreviews

Tuesday, July 9 @ 7pm

Not sure what to read next? Join Jody for 30 minutes of pure book recommendations - with a bent towards horror and thrillers and a few other genres thrown in! We’re sure you’ll find something to like from Jody’s many enthusiastic reviews.

Virtual - Environmental Book Club

Wednesday, July 10 @ 6:30pm

Read “Avocado Anxiety: and other stories about where your food comes from” by Louise Gray.

Virtual - Introduction to Ornithology with Bill Gette: Feeding Ecology

Thursday, July 11 @ 1pm

Join us for this 5 part series all about Ornithology! During this PowerPoint lecture, Bill will teach you about what birds eat, when birds feed, physical and behavioral adaptations, feeding techniques, and food security. As one of our favorite speakers on the natural world, Bill will wow us with his knowledge and fantastic photographs!

Virtual - Bridgerton Discussion: Season Three

Thursday, July 11 @ 7pm

The highly anticipated Julia Quinn’s ‘Bridgerton: Season Three’ is coming to Netflix in two parts on May 16 and June 13 brought to us by Shondaland! To celebrate, a few weeks ago we chatted about the book, “Romancing Mister Bridgerton” - which is actually book 4 in the series - what we liked and how excited we are for the show. Now we’re talking about how the show was! Did it meet our expectations? What we liked or didn’t like? How much did you love Penelope and Colin’s story? Are your eyes bleeding from bingeing it?

Mystery Book Club

Friday, July 12 @ 12pm

Read “Rock, Paper, Scissors” by Alice Feeney

Virtual - Friday Night Film Discussion

Friday, July 12 @ 7pm

Watch “Swimming With Men” (Kanopy)

Cookbook Club

Saturday, July 13 @ 12pm

Cook from “Mastering the Art of French Cooking: Vol. I” by Julia Child

Virtual - The Two Nerdy History Girls Ride Again!

Monday, July 15 @ 7pm

We’re at it again! We keep having so much fun with Loretta and Susan that we had to keep bringing them back for encore performances. You know them as the Two Nerdy History Girls - authors Loretta Chase and Susan Holloway Scott were the originators of the infamous blog. We, once again, have Loretta and Susan here to answer all of our burning questions. How do they find interesting tidbits of historical lore, which libraries of the world have they visited, and how do they avoid the inescapable “rabbit hole”? We can’t wait for what we know is going to be a fascinating conversation between these two friends and researchers.

Virtual: Witches: Evolving Perceptions with the Salem Witch Museum

Tuesday, July 16 @ 1pm

In the modern-day, the term “witch” evokes many different definitions and images. Despite its dark historical origins, when confronted with this figure today, most envision a cartoonish green-skinned woman flying astride a broomstick or a beautiful, supernatural, pop-culture heroine. Others still, such as those who practice Neopagan religions, think of this term as a sacred identity and view this word as a spiritual designation. In this program, participants will hear about the complex and fascinating evolution of the image of the witch, tracing this figure from the early modern period witch trials to the modern-day. 

Bio/Memoir Book Club

Wednesday, July 17 @ 11am

Read “Three Wise Men: A Navy SEAL, a Green Beret, and How Their Marine Brother Became a War’s Sole Survivor” by Beau Wise and Tom Sileo

Half-Past Crafts

Wednesday, July 17 @ 5:30pm

This month we will be needle felting adorable bunnies! Author Panel: The Intersection of Horror and Crime Fiction @ The Framingham Library!

Wednesday, July 17 @ 6:30pm

It’s time to talk about Horror and Crime Fiction! To do so, we’re welcoming V. Castro, Margot Douaihy, and Gabino Iglesias, along with our fearless moderator, Errick Nunnally! The day will include a panel discussion (which will be recorded), and a book sale/signing. 

Great Decisions

Thursday, July 18 @ 6:30pm

Discuss NATO’s Future

Virtual - Haunted Experiences with Jeff DePaoli: Knott’s Scary Farm with Show Writer, Jeff Tucker

Thursday, July 18 @ 6:30pm

Knott’s Scary Farm is the longest-running and most haunting Halloween theme park event in Southern California. With over 50 years of nightmares, unimaginable scares and innovative thrills, Knott’s Scary Farm has left no tomb unearthed, no crypt un-rattled and no fear untouched. Join Jeff Tucker, Senior Writer and Entertainer, and Jeff DePaoli, host of “That Halloween Podcast”, as they talk all about this fantastic haunted place with a special emphasis on the “Trapped” experience - something to make your mind go numb!!

Virtual: Fast Fashion: Why New Clothes are Kinda Garbage

Thursday, July 18 @ 7pm

Have you noticed that new clothes just aren’t as good as they used to be? From low quality synthetic fabrics to zippers that are a problem from the very first wear to lack of detail and poor fit...new clothes are kinda garbage these days. The low quality and short lifespan of this clothing is creating an environmental and ethical crisis for the planet and its people. 

Virtual - LGBTQ+ Book Club

*For 15-100

Monday, July 22 @ 7pm

Bring Your Own Beach Read

Virtual - True Crime Writer, Dean Jobb, Discusses “A Gentleman and a Thief: The Daring Jewel Heists of a Jazz Age Rogue”

Monday, July 22 @ 7pm

We love true crime and author Dean Jobb’s new book, “A Gentleman and a Thief: The Daring Jewel Heists of a Jazz Age Rogue” hits all the right notes! It’s “Catch Me If You Can” meets “The Great Gatsby” meets Cary Grant in “To Catch a Thief” in this captivating Jazz Age true-crime caper about “the greatest jewel thief who ever lived”. We hope you can join us for this special event!

Virtual - Author Jo Willett Discusses: “Sarah Siddons: The First Celebrity Actress”

Tuesday, July 23 @ 10am

This one is for our history and theater buffs! Author Jo Willett will be with us, discussing her newest book, “Sarah Siddons: The First Celebrity Actress”. Learn all about her meteoric rise to fame, the challenges she experienced, and how she transformed the face of theatre. We can’t wait for this fascinating conversation!

Virtual: Addison Gallery Tour of Laying the Foundation

Tuesday, July 23 @ 3pm

This presentation explores the eclectic mix of works that comprise the Addison’s founding collection, which reflects not just the best of what was available on the market at the time but also the specific tastes and predilections of those who contributed to its creation.

Virtual - Celebrating a Book Launch with Author Rachelle Bergstein: “The Genius of Judy: How Judy Blume Rewrote Childhood for All of Us”

Tuesday, July 23 @ 7pm

We are so thrilled to be chatting with author Rachelle Bergstein whose book “The Genius of Judy: How Judy Blume Rewrote Childhood for All of Us” is about one of our very favorite literacy warriors and an author who so many of us grew up with. How did she impact your life? How does she fight the good fight to keep books available and accessible to all? How has she become the icon that she is? Learn the answers to these and other questions to help celebrate the release of this book with Rachelle!

Virtual: Author Talk: Erin E. Adams

Wednesday, July 24 @ 7pm

We’re excited to partner with the Watertown Free Public Library for what is going to be an amazing discussion! Join acclaimed author of JACKAL, Erin E. Adams, for a fascinating conversation on her novel and writing in myth, horror, and science fiction.

Virtual - Friday Night Film Discussion

Friday, July 26 @ 7pm

Watch “Romantics Anonymous” (Kanopy)

Virtual – Author Christina Dodd discusses her latest novel “A Daughter of Fair Verona” with Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Tuesday, July 30 @ 7pm

Icons of the romance genre, Christina Dodd and Susan Elizabeth Phillips are joining us for a rollicking fun conversation about Christina’s latest release, “A Daughter of Fair Verona”, a frothy, irreverent, witty new series with an irresistible premise—Romeo and Juliet’s daughter as a clever, rebellious, fiercely independent young woman in fair Verona—told from the delightfully engaging point of view of the captivating Rosie Montague herself. Of course, being Christine and SEP, they will also talk about books, romance, writing, tomfoolery, and whatever comes up. We hope you can join us for this very special event - we are just planning to sit back and enjoy the fireworks :)!

Make Your Own Smoothies with Heidi McIndoo 

*For Adults Only

Wednesday, July 31 @ 6pm

It’s Summer - what better time to play with making the perfect smoothie? So you, love smoothies? Want to get more fruit in your day? Our DIY Smoothie night is for you! Bring your blender or bullet and join registered dietitian Heidi McIndoo as all of you make a yummy, choose-your-own-flavor smoothies.

Adult Weekly:

Knit and Crochet Club

Mondays @ 6pm

Walk-In ESL Conversation Group

Mondays @ 6:30pm 

Walk-In Gentle Yoga

Tuesdays at 6pm

Registration Requested

Children: 

Plastic Free July

*for ages 3 and up

Monday, July 1 @ 1pm

Registration is Required

Kick off the month at this interactive event with Sam from the Sustainability Department! Learn about Plastic-Free July, make your pledges, and decorate your very own reusable library book bag. 

Teddy Bear Emergency!

Monday, July 8 @ 10am

Registration is Requested

Does your special stuffed animal have an injury?! Come to the Corner Spot on July 8th to get it treated by a team of professionals! The Ashland Fire Department will be there with one of their awesome ambulances and staff to make your teddy bear feel better. Kids will meet our local EMT and fire professionals, check out the ambulance, and learn about emergency services. 

Kids Combat Food Waste 

*for grades K-6

Tuesday, July 9 @ 2pm

Registration is Required

Did you know that about 40% of food produced for us to eat is lost or wasted globally? Sam from the Sustainability Department presents this hands-on workshop, where kids will explore practical ways to combat food waste at home. Then we’ll step outside to “plant” common food scraps that will regrow into yummy foods!

Bee Storytime and Recycled Craft

Friday, July 12 @ 2pm

Walk-in

Learn about our friendly backyard pollinators and make your very own mason bee jar to support pollination at home!

Stories, Songs, and Stretches 

*for ages 4-7

Monday, July 15 @ 10am

Registration is Requested

Kids and their parents or caregivers are invited to play together through stories, songs and yoga shapes. No experience or equipment necessary! Wingmasters: New England Birds of Prey 

*for ages 6 and up

Wednesday, July 17 @ 2pm

Space is limited and registration is required

Learn about and meet some amazing local feathered predators! We’ll explore predation, the birds’; place at the top of the food web, their different hunting adaptations and their status in our rapidly changing world. For ages 6 and up ONLY. All attendees MUST be at least 6 years old! 

Assorted Animal Storytime and Recycled Craft

Thursday, July 18 @ 2pm

Walk-in

Enjoy engaging stories about animals and choose from a variety of animal-themed craft projects to create something fun!

Minecraft Day!

Saturday, July 20 @ 10-3pm

Celebrate all things Minecraft with games, crafts, prizes and more! No registration required.

Celebrate Seeds!

Monday, July 22 @ 10:30am

Space is limited and registration is required.

Becca from the Conservation Department joins us for this educational and interactive event! Learn about the importance of seeds, make a seed bomb for your yard and create a seed hanger for the birds! For families. 

Stories, Songs, and Stretches 

*for ages 4-7

Monday, July 29 @ 10am

Registration is Requested

Kids and their parents or caregivers are invited to play together through stories, songs and yoga shapes. No experience or equipment necessary!

Flicknic: Families are invited to beat the summer heat for a series of special movie events!  Bring your picnic blanket and lunch to enjoy while you watch a movie on our big screen! No registration required.

Flicknic: Haunted Mansion

Thursday, July 11 @ 12pm

In this movie a woman and her son enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help rid their home of supernatural squatters.

Flicknic: Migration

Friday, July 19 @ 12pm

In this film, a family of ducks decides to leave the safety of a New England pond for an adventurous trip to Jamaica. However, their well-laid plans quickly go awry when they get lost and wind up in New York City. The experience soon inspires them to expand their horizons, open themselves up to new friends, and accomplish more than they ever thought possible.

Flicknic: The Lorax

Thursday, July 25 @ 12pm

Twelve-year-old Ted lives in a place virtually devoid of nature; no flowers or trees grow in the town of Thneedville. Ted would very much like to win the heart of Audrey, the girl of his dreams, but to do this, he must find that which she most desires: a Truffula tree. To get it, Ted delves into the story of the Lorax, once the gruff guardian of the forest, and the Once-ler, who let greed overtake his respect for nature.

Saturday Story Time 

*For Ages 3 and up

Saturday, July 6 @ 10:30am

Saturday, July 13 @ 10:30am

Saturday, July 27 @ 10:30am

Come listen to Ryan read some of his favorite stories aloud! Read to a Dog with Knives and Machete (yes, those really are the dogs’ names!)

*For kids who are reading on their own

Saturday, July 13 @ 1:30pm

Saturday, July 27 @ 1:30pm

Children with some reading ability will have the chance to read to one of our registered therapy dogs for 10 minutes.

Weekly Storytimes:

Clocktown Rockers! 

*For ages 2-5 with a caregiver

Tuesdays at 10:30-11am

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. Storytime Sprouts 

* For ages 0-3 with a caregiver

Wednesdays @ 10:30am

Join us for a fun and interactive story time filled with singing, reading, bounces, fingerplays, puppets, instruments, and more! This engaging program is designed to introduce young children to the joys of literature and music while promoting early literacy skills.

Weekly:

Ashland STEM Camp

*For kids entering grades K-5

A high school student-run summer camp that ignites curiosity with interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, new innovations and take-home activities. 

Saturday, July 6 @ 11am

Saturday, July 13 @ 11am

Saturday, July 20 @ 11am

Teen:

Dungeons and Dragons 

*Ages 12-18 Only

Mondays @ 5-7pm

Registration is Required

Join the most famous roleplaying game at the Ashland Public Library!

Teen Trivia Night

Wednesday, July 24 @ 5pm

Prove your speed and smarts at Teen Trivia Night! Bring your phone to play our trivia quiz, earning points for how fast you answer correctly. July’s theme is Disney. Each month we will have new trivia topics and new winners. Play each month to keep a points total for a chance to win our grand prize!!

Friends of the Ashland Public Library Donation Day & Mini Book Sale!

Saturday, July 6 @ 10-1pm

Customers for all our sales will find thousands of titles on the permanent sales shelves including hard and soft cover fiction (all alphabetized by author for ease of shopping), a wide selection of history and politics titles, health and family living books, plus memoirs, biographies, and loads of additional titles, all arranged by genre. An entire section of the Book Sale Room is arranged for children to browse and select from a huge collection of board books, picture books, easy readers, and chapter books.

To keep the shelves stocked with fresh selections, the Friends accept donations in the library parking lot of gently used books, audio books and DVDs. Friends volunteers will be available to assist donors during this time. There is also a cart in the mezzanine lobby for donations at any time during library hours.

Proceeds from these monthly book sales and all fundraising efforts made by the Friends fund 100% of children, teen, and adult programs, our wonderful Museum Passes, and so much more