Minuteman Library Crawl 2025

Wednesday, August 6 @ 10:00 AM—5:00 PM

We invite you to spend a day visiting local libraries – find out what is special about each and what they have to offer to you and your family. This is an event for all ages – all you need is a love of libraries and a way to get from place to place (feet, bikes, cars, llamas :) !

The challenge is to visit as many libraries as you can and take a picture of yourself with a designated item in each library – it’s a 21st century scavenger hunt! Post your pics and tag the libraries #mlncrawl2025. Each library will have handouts and giveaways – show your pictures to a librarian (or if you don’t have a camera, just tell a librarian you’re on the crawl, we’re pretty trusting) and receive a PRIZE!

Visit our website calendar for all of the details and the “passport”

Adult:

Visit our Website Calendar for Additional Info & Registration links: 

https://tinyurl.com/apl-calendars

In Person - Paint Night with Ashwini Chitnavis *For Adults Only

Monday, August 4 @ 5:30—7:30 PM

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 - Historical Romance Authors Shana Galen and Mimi Matthews, In Conversation

Monday, August 4 @ 7pm

We’re such fans of historical romance and we’re huge fans of Shana Galen and Mimi Matthews! We can’t wait to be in conversation with them as they discuss their books, writing, and the state of historical fiction in publishing. Shana’s most recent book is “21 Days with the Lyon” and Mimi’s upcoming one is “Rules for Ruin” - different but amazing! Hope you can join us.

Virtual - “The Women of Arlington Hall” with Author Jane Healey

Tuesday, August 5 @ 7pm

You all know how much we love author Jane Healey, one of the best historical fiction writers our there! So, we’re thrilled to be hosting her for a conversation on her most recent release, “The Women of Arlington Hall”. Using her signature deep dive into research and her wonderful ability to tell a riveting story, Jane delves into the life of a female codebreaker who puts her future and her heart on the line in a stirring novel about love, loyalty, betrayal, and Cold War spy games. You’re not going to want to miss this one!

In Person - Mah Jongg

Wednesday, August 6 @ 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, August 6 @ 6:30pm

Read Before It’s Gone: Stories from the Front Lines of Climate Change in Small-Town America by Jonathan Vigliotti

Virtual - In Conversation with Author and Historian Philippa Langley (take two)

Thursday, August 7 @ 2:00—3:15 PM

We had so much fun talking with Philippa earlier in the year that we just had to have her back. This time, we’re focusing on Philippa’s discovery of the grave of King Richard III in 2012. Join us as author and historical sleuth, Philippa Langley, discusses her research methods, her team, her findings, and how solving this mystery affects our understanding of the royal monarchy (in the 1500s, of course).

HYBRID - Romance Book Club 

Thursday, August 7 @ 6:30pm

Read a Paranormal Romance

Virtual - Declutter series with Jamie Novak: How to Sell Your Stuff (Poshmark & yard sale)

Thursday, August 7 @ 7:00—8:30 PM

Join decluttering humorist Jamie Novak as she shares ways to host a profitable yard sale. Then an overview of selling on Poshmark with a live tutorial. Plus, the one thing she would NEVER sell. Then join the live guided tidy-up for a quick jumpstart!

Virtual - The Many Faces Of Grief

Thursday, August 7 @ 7:00pm

Join this conversation moderated by Michele Bograd, a certified end-of-life doula and psychologist, to explore your thoughts and feelings about such questions as: What are you grieving? How have you felt accompanied or isolated in your grief? What messages have you gotten about the “right” way to grieve? What do we learn socially and culturally that influences how we support and care for others as they grieve?

In Person - Mystery Book Club

Friday, August 8 @ 12:00pm

Read Old City Hall by Richard Osman

Virtual - “The Invention of Charlotte Brontë” with Author Graham Watson

Monday, August 11 @ 2:00pm

Based entirely on rarely seen private letters, The Invention of Charlotte Brontë: A New Life by Graham Watson sheds new light on the dramatic events of Brontë’s turbulent last years of grief, fulfillment, and tragedy—and exposes the astonishing media scandal that followed her early death, when her friends and family battled to control how history would remember her. 

In Person - Card Making with Jan Poppendieck

Monday, August 11 @ 6:30pm

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

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

Tuesday, August 12 @ 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!

Virtual - Thriller/Horror Book Recs with Bookstagrammer @redreadreviews

Wednesday, August 12 @ 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! We’re sure you’ll find something to like from Jody’s many enthusiastic reviews.

Virtual - Q&A with Historical Romance Writer Erica Ridley

Thursday, August 14 @ 7:00

We are so excited to be chatting with fantastic historical romance author, Erica Ridley! And, right before her new book, “A Waltz on the Wild Side”, comes out - we can celebrate early! Erica also wrote “The Perks of Loving a Wallflower”, one of our very favorite books. AND, she  also writes young adult horror and thriller novels. What Can’t she do?? Bring your questions as this is going to be a rapid fire, AMA (ask me anything) Q&A!

In Person - Parenting Book Club: “The Anxious Generation” with Kerri Maher of The Well-Resourced Parent

Monday, August 18 @ 6:00—7:30 PM

We hope all parents can join us for this important discussion on The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt! We started the discussion a few months ago but we think it’s time to continue that conversation or start again with more thoughts and ideas. Led by Kerri Maher of The Well-Resourced Parent, we hope to delve into the book and how it can benefit parents struggling to do the best they can. You do not need to have come to the first session to join this one, we’ll do a quick overview of the previous discussion and start from new and thoughtful angles.

In Person - Cook Book Club 

Tuesday, August 19 @ 5:00pm

Cook from The Book On Pie: Everything You Need to Know to Bake Perfect Pies by Erin Jeanne McDowell.

In Person - Bio/Memoir Book Club

Wednesday, August 20 @ 11am

Read How to Share an Egg  by Bonny Reichert

In Person - Great Decisions 

Thursday, August 21 @ 6:30—7:45 PM

Discuss The Future of NATO and European Security

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

Thursday, August 21 @ 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 of SciFi/Fantasy books out there! We’re sure you’ll find something to like from Kristen’s many enthusiastic reviews.

Virtual - Inclusive and Diverse Book Recs with Bookstagrammer @sometimesleelynnreads

Thursday, August 21 @ 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 - Art on Thursday: American Palaces: The Grandeur of Biltmore and Vizcaya

Thursday, August 28 @ 7:00—8:15 PM

Discover the splendor of America’s grand estates and gardens in this captivating introduction to architectural and botanical masterpieces. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning beauty of iconic landmarks, and envision a world where luxury and nature intertwine seamlessly.

Adult Weekly:

Knit and Crochet Club

Mondays @ 6pm

Walk-In

No Yoga in August

ESL Conversation Group

Wednesdays @ 6:30pm 

Walk-In

Children: 

Teacher Tales are back!:

Come meet Ashland Public Schools teachers in a relaxed storytime setting! This is a great opportunity for your child to meet their teacher for the fall. No registration required.

Mrs. Mackay

Wednesday, August 13 @ 6:30—7:00 PM Mrs. Forrest

Tuesday, August 19 @ 5:00—5:30 PM

Mrs. Clifford

Monday, August 18 @ 6:30-7:00 PM Mrs. Robshaw

Wednesday, August 20 @ 6:30-7:00 PM

Special Programs:

Music at the Blissful

*For families

Thursday, August 7 @ 4:00-5:00 PM

6x Boston Parent Paper Family Favorite and National Touring Musician, Music at the Blissful (Evan Haller) from Boston Massachusetts comes to the Ashland Public Library for a high energy, fun filled, interactive, movement packed music experience for the whole family.  Come join the fun as we sing, jump, shake, laugh and go slow and fast with Music at The Blissful. Playing featuring songs off his new album, “This” It is sure to be an action packed good time for all. Registration required.

Zen Gardens 

*For ages 6-12

Monday, August 4 @ 4:00—5:00 PM

 Join us for a fun and calming activity where kids can make their own mini Zen gardens! Using sand, rocks, and other natural items, children will create peaceful little spaces and learn how to feel calm and focused. It’s a relaxing, hands-on way to explore nature, creativity, and mindfulness. Registration Required.

Movie Day: The Super Mario Bros Movie

*For families

Saturday, August 9 @ 2:00—3:30 PM

Join us for a fun-filled afternoon as we watch The Super Mario Bros. Movie! Bring a cozy blanket (or two), sit back, and enjoy the show—we’ll take care of the snacks! Registration Required.

Family Puzzle Race

*For families

Wednesday, August 6 @ 1:00-2:00 PM

Families are invited to compete in a race to finish a puzzle! Pit your puzzling skills against those of other families for fun, bragging rights and a small prize. Puzzles will be provided. Registration required as space is limited!

Gummy Bear Slime! 

*For ages 6-12

Friday, August 15 @ 2pm

Get ready for a sweet and squishy science adventure! In this hands-on program, kids ages 6-12 will turn gummy bears into gooey, colorful slime. Young scientists will explore how heat, mixing, and simple ingredients can create a stretchy slime that’s safe to play with—and even taste! Registration Required.

Movie Night: Sonic the Hedgehog 

*For families

Wednesday, August 20 @ 6:00—8:00 PM

Join us for a fun-filled evening as we watch Sonic the Hedgehog! Bring a cozy blanket (or two), sit back, and enjoy the show—we’ll take care of the snacks! Registration Required.

Little Picassos

*For grades K-6

Tuesday, August 5 and 26 @ 4:30-5:30 PM

Calling all budding artists! Join Miss Kayla for this special summer edition of Little Picassos Club where we’ll be taking our messy and creative fun outside into the sunshine! We’ll work on different mixed media projects each week, ranging from outdoor painting to nature collages and so much more. For grades K-6. Registration required.

Pokemon Club

*For grades 2-6

Tuesday, August 19 @ 6:30-7:30 PM

Are you a Pokémon master? Kids in grades 2-6 are welcome to join us for our NEW and exciting Pokémon Club! We’ll watch episodes of the anime, work on crafts, play games, talk about our favorite Pokémon—you might even get a chance to show off your card collection! Come hang out and make new Pokémon friends. Registration required.

Coding for Kids

Monday, August 4 @ 6:00-7:00 PM

*For grades K-4

Gear up for a tech-tastic adventure with our Coding Class for Kids! Kids 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. 

Weekly Storytimes:

Tuesday 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. 

Friday Clocktown Rockers! 

*For ages 2-5 with a caregiver

Fridays 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-11am

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.

Saturday Stories 

*for ages 2-5 with a caregiver

Saturdays @ 10:30am-11am

Join Miss Kayla for a new Saturday morning storytime! We’ll read lively stories, do fun rhymes and movement activities, and work on simple crafts. For families with children ages 2-5. No registration required.  

Recurring Weekly Programs:

Sensory Bin Exploration

Mondays @ 10:30-11:15am

*For ages 2-6

Bring your little ones to enjoy an open play sensory bin exploration! Every session will feature a new theme, offering hands-on fun. No registration required.

Coding for Kids

Saturdays, August 2 & 9 @ 11:30-1:00 PM

*For grades K-4

Gear up for a tech-tastic adventure with our Coding Class for Kids! Kids 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. 

Messy Art Storytime

Thursdays @ 10:30-11:15am

*For ages 2-6

Join Miss Paige for storytime and messy, hands-on fun! Kids will enjoy a new art project that lets their creativity shine. Dress for a mess and get ready to create! No registration required.

Teen:

Life-Sized Board Games

Tuesday, August 5 @ 5:30—6:30 PM

If bigger is better, then we’ve got the best board games around! Roll on scooters to win in life-sized Hungry, Hungry Hippos. Run to the correct card in Memory Match. Toss bean bags to the best square in TicTacToe. Who will win? That’s up to you. Registration is Requested

Snack Club

Thursday, August 14th @ 5:00—7:00PM

Join us for the second meeting of the snack club! Each month we will do a snack related activity or game- from rating to making. Snacks and friends. What more could you ask for? See you there! Registration required.

VEX Robotics Camp - August Session

Monday, August 11 @ 6:00-7:00 PM

Tuesday, August 12 @ 6:00-7:00 PM

Wednesday, August 13 @ 6:00-7:00 PM

Thursday, August 14 @ 6:00-7:00 PM

Friday, August 15 @ 3:30-4:30 PM

Welcome to Robotics Summer Camp! Middle school students will spend a week learning robotics by building and programming VEX robots.Topics include programming robots to pick up objects, understanding gear ratios, and building robots from scratch. Students are expected to attend the full week of classes.

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

Saturday, August 2 @ 9:30 AM—1:00 PM

The sale includes thousands of titles, organized by genre and author, with a special section for children’s books. To keep the shelves stocked with fresh selections, the Friends will be accepting donations in the library parking lot of gently used books, audio books and DVDs. Friends volunteers will be available to assist donors from 9:30am until 1pm on Saturday. 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! If you can’t make it to the sales, the Friends have a book sale corner on the 1st floor of the library (in the beautiful original part of the building). There, you can find great books for yourself and your family any time the library is open.