Drop in and unleash your creativity with seasonal art in this engaging program designed for Grades K-5! Craft materials will be at your fingertips from 5:30-7:00 pm.
RAIN POETRY
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17TH
2:30PM
The Grafton Library and the Worcester County Poetry Association present Rain Poetry 2024, a poetry workshop for ages 5-9!
Confused by, bemused by, disabused about poetry? In honor of April Showers and National Poetry Month, come join us as we explore free verse! We’ll read and write poetry together and work on poems about rain in your neighborhood! All abilities and interests welcome; if you can’t yet wield a pen, please bring a companion who can!
Discover the joy of board gaming at our Family Board Game Tasting Event, open from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Drop in and sample a variety of games from our library of things, suitable for all ages and interests. If you find a favorite, you can check it out to bring the fun home. Join us for an evening of laughter, strategy, and family bonding through the magic of board games!
THURSDAY, APRIL 18TH
Drop by the Children’s Room temporary space to pick up a take-home kit during school vacation week. Kits are for grades K-5 and must be completed at home. These kits will be a single activity and may include sticker painting, paper crafts, or fortune tellers. Limit one per child. While supplies last.
Drop in and unleash your creativity with seasonal art in this engaging program designed for Grades K-5! Craft materials will be at your fingertips from 5:30-7:00 pm.
MOVIE & NEEDLEPOINT
FRIDAY, APRIL 19TH
10:30AM
Join us for Needlepoint Fun during this Craft & Movie Day. Children in grades K-5 can register for this event where they’ll watch a movie and create needlepoint designs. With easy-to-follow instructions and pre-printed patterns, participants will learn the basics of needlepoint embroidery while crafting their own charming piece. This activity is suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to stitch up some fun – register now!
Open play will be from 11:30am-7:00pm Monday through Thursday, and 11:30-2:00pm on Friday and Saturdays.
In the temporary location in the Community Room, children can enjoy various activities, including playing with toys, games, and AWE computers. There is ample space to play, meet friends, or read a story in our cozy seating and dedicated play areas.
The temporary Children’s collection is still being housed in the Friend’s Corner. Thank you to the Friends for their continued hospitality!
APRIL VACATION PROGRAMS
GARDEN MOSAICS
TUESDAY, APRIL 16TH AT 2:30PM
Think Spring this April Vacation Week by making one of these adorable garden mosaics!
Confused by, bemused by, disabused about poetry? In honor of April Showers and National Poetry Month, come join us as we explore free verse! We’ll read and write poetry together and work on poems about rain in your neighborhood! All abilities and interests welcome; if you can’t yet wield a pen, please bring a companion who can!
Ages 5-9. Registration is required.
BOARD GAME TESTING
IWEDNESDAY APRIL 17TH
5:30PM-7:00PM
Discover the joy of board gaming at our Family Board Game Tasting Event, open from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Drop in and sample a variety of games from our library of things, suitable for all ages and interests. If you find a favorite, you can check it out to bring the fun home. Join us for an evening of laughter, strategy, and family bonding through the magic of board games!
THURSDAY, APRIL 18TH
Drop by the Children’s Room temporary space to pick up a take-home kit during school vacation week. Kits are for grades K-5 and must be completed at home. These kits will be a single activity and may include sticker painting, paper crafts, or fortune tellers. Limit one per child. While supplies last.
MOVIE & NEEDLEPOINT
FRIDAY, APRIL 19TH
10:30AM
Join us for Needlepoint Fun during this Craft & Movie Day. Children in grades K-5 can register for this event where they’ll watch a movie and create needlepoint designs. With easy-to-follow instructions and pre-printed patterns, participants will learn the basics of needlepoint embroidery while crafting their own charming piece. This activity is suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to stitch up some fun – register now!
SPRING TOTES
SATURDAY APRIL 20TH
10:30AM
APRIL EVENTS-KIDS
(Birth-Grade 5)
FRIDAY APRIL 26TH
10:30AM
Join local author Kristy Kielbasinski for a special reading of her children’s book, I DON’T KNOW.
Join a mischievous bee on a hilarious journey to discover a little penguin’s favorite book. Will it be a fairy tale, a classic, or maybe a silly new story? I Don’t Know! By the end of this playful rhyming read-aloud adventure the room will be filled with laughter and your hearts filled with love.
After storytime, Kristy will lead the children through a simple craft. Every family that attends will receive a free signed copy of the book!
RAIN POETRY
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10
3:00PM
The Grafton Library and the Worcester County Poetry Association present Rain Poetry 2024, a poetry workshop for ages 10-14.!
Confused by, bemused by, disabused about poetry? In honor of April Showers and National Poetry Month, come join us as we explore free verse! We’ll read and write poetry together and work on poems about rain in your neighborhood! All abilities and interests welcome; if you can’t yet wield a pen, please bring a companion who can!
Ages 10-14. Registration is required.
Community Helper Storytime: Dr. Diab, Pediatric Dental of Grafton
Tuesday April 23rd at 10:30AM
Join us for a special storytime featuring one of Grafton’s community helpers! Dentist Dr. Diab will here to share her mission to promote dental health and hygiene among children through the BrushFloss program. The program will involve direct engagement with children by dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, and office staff. The core objectives include:
1. **Educating Children on Proper Brushing Techniques:** The team will demonstrate the correct way to brush teeth, emphasizing the importance of brushing twice daily and the techniques that ensure effective cleaning of all tooth surfaces.
2. **Promoting Good Oral Hygiene Practices:** Beyond brushing, the program will cover the full spectrum of oral care, including flossing. It will teach the importance of regular flossing to remove plaque and food particles between teeth, where a toothbrush might not reach.
3. **Guiding Healthier Dietary Choices:** A crucial part of oral health is nutrition. The program will provide guidance on making healthier food and drink choices that support dental health, such as reducing sugar intake and choosing foods that strengthen teeth.
4. **Interactive Learning Experience:** To engage children effectively, the program will utilize interactive methods such as demonstrations, hands-on practice sessions, and Q&A segments. This approach aims to foster a fun learning environment that encourages children to adopt these practices.
5. **Resources for Ongoing Support:** The program will also offer take-home materials, such as brochures or small kits, to remind children of what they learned and encourage them to apply these practices daily. The overarching goal of the BrushFloss program is to instill lifelong habits of good oral hygiene and healthy dietary choices in children, contributing to their overall well-being and preventing dental problems in the future.
Pediatric Dental of Grafton offers free oral exams to children 24 months and younger.
APRIL PROGRAMS KIDS
(Birth-Grade 5)
MONDAYS
APRIL 1ST and 8TH
Library Babies is 20-minute program tailored for our tiniest visitors, ages birth to walking. Every Monday at 10:30 am, join us for an engaging experience where we read stories, sing songs, recite familiar nursery rhymes, and interact with the little ones through bounces and finger plays. Parents and caregivers are not just spectators – they play a crucial role in creating a community of support and friendship. This drop-in program provides a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow parents, forge lifelong friendships, and witness the joy of early literacy together. No registration is required.
WEDNESDAYS
APRIL 3RD, 10TH
Toddler Time is a lively 30-minute program designed for our little ones aged walking to 3 years! Join us on Wednesdays at 10:30 as we share stories, sing and dance, and engage in fun movement activities. Beyond the enriching activities, Toddler Time is an opportunity for toddlers, parents, and caregivers to come together, fostering first friendships and creating a warm community.
THURSDAYS
APRIL 4TH, 11TH
Tailored for children aged 3-5, this 45-minute program offers a structured and engaging storytime experience. Join Ms. Sarah, and dive into a world of stories,catchy songs, interactive felt board fun, and movement activities. It’s not just a storytime – it’s a stepping stone to school readiness. Secure your spot by registering below.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10TH@3:30pm
Join us for a special storytime, fun activities, and see a highlighted feature of the Willard House & Clock Museum.
This program is for preschoolers ages 3-5 and registration is required.
TUESDAYS @5:30-7:00PM
APRIL 2ND, 9TH and 16TH
THURSDAYS @ 5:30-7:00PM
APRIL 4TH, 11TH and 18TH
Drop in and unleash your creativity with seasonal art in this engaging program designed for Grades K-5! Craft materials will be at your fingertips from 5:30-7:00 pm, allowing you to explore your artistic talents and make something special.
Join us for a night of artistic expression and seasonal fun!
WEDNESDAYS@ 5:30-7:00PM
APRIL 3RD AND 10TH
Join us for an exciting adventure into the world of mathematics through the fun and engaging medium of card games! In this STEM program tailored for kids, we’ll delve into various mathematical concepts while enjoying classic and modern card games. From arithmetic to probability, participants will sharpen their critical thinking skills, develop strategic reasoning, and explore mathematical principles in action. Don’t miss out on this hands-on STEM adventure where learning meets fun with every shuffle and deal!
COMIC CREATORS CLUB
TUESDAY, APRIL 23RD@4:30pm
Learn about the characteristics of comics/graphic novels and then try drawing or writing some of you own.
This program is for school aged children in grades 2-5.
BOOKWORMS GRADES K-1
TUESDAY, APRIL 23RD@5:30pm
Join Ms. Kristin for a fun book discussion aimed at kids in kindergarten to first grade! Don’t forget to pick up your copy of the book GUESS WHAT by Mo Willems, at the library.
When Zoomy and his pals get to the beach, chaos ensues, in this funny, furry adventure that includes bonus jokes, quirky quizzes, nutty facts and so, so many Squirrels.
Register Here
BOOKWORMS GRADES 2-3
TUESDAY, APRIL 23RD@6:15pm
Explore books with Ms. Kristin in a discussion just for second and third graders. This month, we’re reading INVESTIGATORS by John Green.
With their very exciting spy technology and their tried-and-true, toilet-based travel techniques, the InvestiGators are undercover and on the case! And on their first mission together, they have not one but two mysteries to solve! Can Mango and Brash uncover the clues, crack their cases, and corral the crooks – or will the criminals wriggle out of their grasp?
Get your own book at the library and help your child enjoy reading. Register now.
TUESDAY, APRIL 23RD@7:00pm
Join Ms. Kristin for a fun book chat designed for young readers in fourth and fifth grade. Grab your copy of BOOKED by Kwame Alexander at the library and secure your spot below to encourage your child’s reading journey.
Twelve-year-old Nick loves soccer and hates books, but soon learns the power of words as he wrestles with problems at home, stands up to a bully, and tries to impress the girl of his dreams.
In a move that has left the residents of Grafton scratching their heads, the bronze statue of Jerome Wheelock, Grafton Public Library’s benefactor, has been unexpectedly replaced by a new, furry figure: Cider the dog.
The swap, which occurred overnight, has sparked a whirlwind of speculation and excitement throughout the community. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw it this morning,” exclaims longtime Grafton resident, Bella Barksley. “One day, we have Jerome Wheelock looming over us, and the next, we’ve got this adorable dog looking over the common.”
Cider was a beloved dog known for her friendly demeanor and unwavering loyalty to her human companions. With her playful antics and heartwarming presence, she stole the hearts of residents young and old alike. She went over the rainbow bridge in 2020.
“Cider was more than just a dog; she was a symbol of everything that’s good and pure in this world,” remarked librarian Lily Leashly. “Now her statue will serve as a reminder to us all to live with love, loyalty, and a wagging tail.”
Not everyone has embraced the change with open arms. “I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love Cider as much as the next person,” says Grafton local, Max Muzzleman. “But replacing Jerome Wheelock with a dog? It’s just… unexpected, to say the least.”
The mysterious swap has left many questions unanswered. Who is behind this canine coup? And what inspired the decision to replace a historical figure with a bronze dog? Speculation runs rampant, with theories ranging from a well-intentioned prank to a symbolic gesture of Grafton’s unwavering love for its four-legged residents.
For now, one thing is certain: Cider the dog has found herself in the spotlight, standing proudly in the heart of Grafton as a symbol of love, loyalty, and the indomitable spirit of community.
Stay tuned for further updates as this tail-wagging tale unfolds in the heart of our beloved town.
And to Cider the dog, wherever you are: Good girl.
In a surprising turn of events, Grafton Public Library has announced the appointment of its newest Director, and he’s not your typical bookworm – he’s a bona fide barking, tail-wagging sensation! Meet Timber Brassard, the adorable miniature goldendoodle who’s taking the reins as the library’s newest top dog.
The announcement, made by the library trustees, has raised a few eyebrows among the locals, with whispers of nepotism echoing through the community. After all, it’s not every day that a furry friend steps into such an important role. Especially a furry friend owned by the Town Administrator. But according to insiders, Timber’s qualifications speak for themselves – his friendly demeanor, wagging tail, and undeniable charm have already won over the hearts of staff and patrons alike.
“Timber brings a fresh perspective to the role of Library Director,” said an anonymous town employee who may or may not have a personal connection to the new appointee. “His enthusiasm for books, treats, and belly rubs is unmatched, and we’re confident that he’ll lead Grafton Public Library to new heights of success.”
Indeed, Timber’s appointment comes on the heels of some tumultuous times for the library. Staff are still struggling to deal with building disasters, resignations, and the occasional unruly patron. But if there’s one thing Timber knows how to do, it’s bring a sense of joy, cooperation, and camaraderie to those around him – qualities that have been lacking in the library for quite some time.
“Timber has already made a paw-sitive impact on the library community,” said longtime librarian, Terry Tailwagger. “He’s always available-even on weekends! He encourages collaboration and respect. His friendly woofs have made even the most stressful days a little bit brighter.”
And while some may question the wisdom of appointing a dog to such a prestigious role, others are quick to point out the undeniable benefits of having Timber at the helm.
“Let’s face it, Timber is a natural-born leader,” said local dog trainer and canine enthusiast, Louis Fetcher. “His even temperament, keen sense of smell, and unwavering loyalty make him the perfect candidate for the job. Plus, who wouldn’t want to work for a Director who greets you with a slobbery kiss every morning?”
So here’s to Timber, the library’s newest top dog– may his reign be filled with treats, tail wags, and plenty of good books!
In a stunning turn of events, what was intended to be a light-hearted April Fool’s Day prank has taken an unexpected twist at Grafton Public Library. What started as a whimsical celebration of all things canine has quickly devolved into a riotous romp, with puppies darting between bookshelves, chewing on furniture, and leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
The culprit? Patrons who seem to have mistaken our library for a canine daycare center.
As chaos reigns supreme, with books flying like Frisbees and tails wagging furiously, our library staff finds themselves in the midst of a canine calamity of epic proportions.
“We thought it’d be a hoot to bring a bit of doggy delight to our patrons,” says Librarian Eda Scooper, who’s currently ducking behind the reference desk to avoid a pack of rampaging poodles. “But this… this is pure pandemonium!”
From Labradors trying to “retrieve” overdue books to Chihuahuas staging a tiny uprising in the romantasy section, it’s clear these furry pranksters have taken their roles a tad too seriously. “I’ve seen my fair share of unruly patrons in my time,” chuckles patron Jacob Barkowitz, dodging a playful nip from a mischievous terrier, “but this is a whole new breed of mischief.”
As we struggle to maintain some semblance of order amidst the madness, we’re issuing a gentle reminder to our beloved patrons: Just as we wouldn’t expect our staff to babysit unattended children, we simply cannot be held responsible for wrangling untamed pups.We’re librarians, not dog whisperers! So please, keep your furry friends in check and remember that the library is a place for books, not barking.
And please, for the love of literature, someone grab a mop…
Let’s kick off the week with a lot of fun and play. That’s right, it’s Library Babies time. This event starts at 10:30 am. Parents and caregivers can bring in their babies for a fun-filled time of songs, rhymes, and of course, lots of cuddles. This is a perfect opportunity for babies to develop their motor skills, and for parents to connect with other parents. Don’t forget to join us!
Open Play runs after storytime at 11:30am.
Tuesday
Our Open Play starts from 11:30 am and goes till 5:00 pm. This is a great opportunity for the kids to interact and learn from each other. Open Play encourages independent play and social interaction.
Drop in and unleash your creativity with seasonal art in this engaging program designed for Grades K-5! Craft materials will be at your fingertips from 5:30-7:00 pm.
Wednesday
It’s Toddler Time at 10:30 am. This event is designed to keep toddlers engaged and stimulated.
Open Play runs after storytime, 11:30am-5pm.
Tweens can join us for Rain Poetry.
The Grafton Library and the Worcester County Poetry Association present Rain Poetry 2024, a poetry workshop for ages 10-14.!
Confused by, bemused by, disabused about poetry? In honor of April Showers and National Poetry Month, come join us as we explore free verse! We’ll read and write poetry together and work on poems about rain in your neighborhood! All abilities and interests welcome; if you can’t yet wield a pen, please bring a companion who can!
Ages 10-14. Registration is required.
In the evening, at 5:30 pm, we have our Card Games STEM event. This is a great time for kids to learn new games, develop strategic thinking, and of course, have a lot of fun!
Thursday
On Thursday mornings, we have our Preschool Storytime at 10:30 am. This is a wonderful opportunity for preschoolers to enjoy some delightful stories and develop a love for reading from a young age.
Open Play runs after storytime, 11:30am-5pm.
Drop in and unleash your creativity with seasonal art in this engaging program designed for Grades K-5! Craft materials will be at your fingertips from 5:30-7:00 pm.
Friday and Saturday
On Fridays and Saturdays, Open Play is available, but with a slightly different schedule. It starts from 11:30 am and ends at 2:00 pm. It’s a great way to wrap up the week with more fun and play.
Next week, visit us for special School Vacation Programs. Some do require registration, or have materials that are available on a first-come, first served basis.
Starting on Tuesday, February 27, the library is transitioning to a new, more user-friendly computer program for patrons to reserve museum passes, book study rooms, and register for library events.
We have created these video tutorials to help you get to know our new reservation system:
If you still need assistance, please contact the library at (508) 839-4649, extension 1820. Our library staff are eager to help you make use of the new reservation system.
The Grafton Public Library will be CLOSED for Professional Development on Thursday, March 7, 2024. No items are due this day. The Library will reopen on Friday, March 8, 2024.
Please pick up museum passes for Thursday before the Library closes at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.
Please visit our online digital branch 24/7 at www.graftonlibrary.org – you can even get a digital card if you do not have a library card.
For a complete calendar of 2024 Library closings, please visit https://graftonlibrary.org/2024-library-closings/
This week we circulated 1,703 items, received 443 items in transit, and sent 570 items. We requested 412 items and fulfilled 355 hold requests; registered 16 patrons for library cards; and added 67 new items. The most popular book for several weeks in a row has been The Lioness of Boston by Emily Franklin.
Due to staff shortages, Winter Hours are in effect from January 2 to March 4, 2024. The library is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Responses from a patron survey regarding library opening hours are being tabulated, and new opening hours reflecting patron preferences will take effect in early March.
Due to the start of Winter Hours last week, the Teen Room is unavailable for after-school use on Fridays through March 1. We apologize for the inconvenience. Staff continue to program plan, create amazing displays, and build relationships with teens after school.
The library welcomed three new temporary employees, Ramona Barton, Bridget O’Leary, and Meghan Spargo, to our team. The temporary employees help to fill gaps in desk coverage in the event that a regular staff member is ill, out on leave, or when other scheduling issues arise. If you see a new face at the desk, please say hello!
Mary Murtland is quickly settling into her role as the new Head of Borrower Services and has already had a positive impact to the team. The Borrower Services staff is preparing for the changes being made by CWMARS to the library catalog. Our staff has been attending CWMARS sessions to become familiar with the new catalog program called Aspen and the new features and functionality that this new program will provide to all users. The new program is set to be implemented on March 4, 2024.
The Borrower Services staff has also been learning how to make use of a new, user-friendly platform that the Grafton Library and its patrons will be using to reserve museum passes and make room reservations. The library will be transitioning from Eventkeeper to LibCal at the end of the month.
Reference staff hosted a “Not Just for Young Adults” Book Group and discussed How to Excavate a Heart by Jake Maia Arlow. Staff also updated nonfiction budget tracking and trained new temp employees.
Reference staff are also preparing to launch the 2024 Seed Library in mid-March. Similar to previous years, patrons and members of the public will be able to drop in and take free seed packets for their home use. New this year is an expanded native plant seed collection! Stay tuned for more information on seed offerings.
Staff in the Teen Room continue to program plan for drop-in programming for February break as well as every Monday-Friday beginning in March. We will be teaming up with the Children’s Room for Spin Art during February break and continue to supervise and build relationships with teens after school. Sarah Slocum has also been busy planning community gardens with Trustee Dana Wilson.
Technical Services staff have been working on replacements for damaged Children’s Books, placing orders and cataloging items, and continuing to work on the adult fiction series list.
Carpet has been ordered for the Community Room and is scheduled to be installed this month. The Children’s Room carpet is in the process of being ordered. Although a timeline for completion of the Children’s Room is not yet available, the staff hope to utilize the Community Room for programming and a temporary play space.
Children’s Room staff continued to plan February school vacation week activities around their less than ideal circumstances, discussed layout for the Community Rooms so it could be used for a temporary Children’s Room, met with Willard House to finalize a summer programming outline, reviewed and tested LibCal as a replacement for EventKeeper, and explored options for updating the library’s website.
We are excited to report that the search is underway for a new director, and several applications have been received. A Library Director Screening Subcommittee under the Board of Library Trustees was created to evaluate applicants. In the meantime, staff members from the Library and the Town of Grafton are working in cooperation to keep things running smoothly and provide the same level of service to patrons.
