Not everyone sees the value in libraries. After all, you can get everything online now, right? Libraries love online content, and librarians fight to keep digital materials free, trustworthy, and accessible to you through our catalogs and databases. It's also true that use of online materials has increased over the years. Yet, while staff is still needed to manage online content, this is only a sliver of what the library delivers.

The next time you hear someone question the meaning of libraries in the modern age, invite them to visit our small, bustling building on a Tuesday morning. They'll find our staff sorting the many boxes of books, DVDs, audios, and games that were ordered by Boylston residents over the weekend. They'll hear the sounds of an engaged group of children bubbling over from a carefully planned Story Time, as well as caregivers who often stay long past the program to socialize. They'll see people coming in and out as part of their morning errands--to print documents, to drop off museum passes they borrowed, to pick up seed packets from our Seed Library, or to a browse a new, monthly art exhibit. They'll notice a library volunteer absorbed in an English lesson with Boylston families learning the language.

Invite those who doubt the purpose of a public library to visit us any time, and we'll be able to show them a community that relies heavily on our physical resources, as well as the cultural and social engagement that can be found here. It's okay that not everyone uses the library. It's also okay that some of our patrons use our online content while never setting foot in the building. But part of our mission is to ensure people see the value in the library, regardless of how they use it. Help us by encouraging folks to get acquainted with that value and take part of our community in a way that works best for them...there's no better time to do so than the summer!

We've been organizing summer reading programs and an active schedule of events for all ages. Stop in to get a summer programs booklet. Keep an eye out for opportunities to engage with us digitally or in person. Whatever your interests, the library can help you make the most out of another beautiful summer in New England.

Upcoming events:

Writer’s Group - Hybrid

Tuesday, May 16, 6:30-7:30pm

This is a group for aspiring writers, led by Susan Roney O'Brien, MFA. All are welcome, no matter your writing level! Join this group as they improve their writing together. You can either join us in person at the library or virtually.

Story Time: Fabulous 4s & 5s

Wednesday, May 17, 11-11:45am

Join us for this hands-on Story Time program geared for you curious and tenacious four to five year olds. Children will participate in different activities that provide room to explore concepts presented in the stories through STEM activities. Registration required; space is limited. If you prefer to join us online, you can sign up for the Zoom link upon registration. 

Story Time: Bouncing Babies

Thursday, May 18, 11-11:45am

Infants and toddlers aged 0-23 months are invited to this musical program specially designed to engage the tiniest library users while developing early literacy skills. Registration required; space is limited. If you prefer to join us online, you can sign up for the Zoom link upon registration. 

Make a Trick Dice Game

Thursday, May 18, 4-5pm

Do you like to trick your friends? This sneaky game is fun and simple to make using paint and wood blocks!Registration required; ages 7+.

Evening Book Club Online

Thursday, May 18, 6:30-7:30pm

Join us online for a discussion of I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys. Copies are available at the library or on Overdrive.

Spring Mushroom Hunting: Outdoor Class with The Mushroom Hunting Foundation

Saturday, May 20, 11am-12pm

There are many types of mushrooms in our region. Some are poisonous, but their ecology is fun to learn about...and others are simply delicious! Ryan Bouchard and Emily Schmidt, New England's leading mushroom hunting teachers, will lead us into the forest for a close look at local fungi in their natural habitats. They will explain the basics of wild mushroom science and safety, and will emphasize the species of spring mushroom season that are considered safe for beginners to cook with. This class will show you inside a whole world of adventure that most people overlook! Registration required. Bring cameras, or phones with ringers off. The hiking will be easy, but don't wear your best shoes; dress for walking in the woods.  

About the Instructors: Ryan T. Bouchard is the author and photographer of the groundbreaking book Gourmet Mushrooms of the Northeast. Emily Schmidt also studies our local mushroom species (and wild plants as well), and creates new ways to highlight the unique flavors of these ingredients. Together, they created The Mushroom Hunting Foundation, and they have educated thousands of people about safely enjoying America’s incredible wild mushrooms.

Adult Take & Make: Macramé Wall Hanging
Tuesday, May 23, 10am-5pm
Back by popular demand is another macramé kit! Each kit will include the materials and instructions to make a decorative wall hanging for your home or office. Registration required; ages 17+

Story Time: Terrific 2s & 3s
Tuesday, May 23, 11-11:45am
Those toddling two and three-year olds will love this active and fun Story Time inside the library! Registration required; space is limited. If you prefer to join us online, you can sign up for the Zoom link upon registration. 

Story Time: Fabulous 4s & 5s
Wednesday, May 24, 11-11:45am
Join us for this hands-on Story Time program geared for you curious and tenacious four to five year olds. Children will participate in different activities that provide room to explore concepts presented in the stories through STEM activities. Registration required; space is limited. If you prefer to join us online, you can sign up for the Zoom link upon registration. 

Story Time: Bouncing Babies
Thursday, May 25, 11-11:45am
Infants and toddlers aged 0-23 months are invited to this musical program specially designed to engage the tiniest library users while developing early literacy skills. Registration required; space is limited. If you prefer to join us online, you can sign up for the Zoom link upon registration. 

Donut Day!
Friday, Jun. 2, 3:30-4:30pm
It's National Donut Day! Ages 4+ are invited to come to the library to decorate their own yummy donut with frosting, sprinkles, and more. Devour your delicious donut, or take it home for later!