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James Blackstone Memorial Library

758 Main Street
203-488-1441

James Blackstone Memorial Library

The James Blackstone Memorial Library continues, as it has for 110 years, to provide the shoreline community with a first-rate library.  We continue to make the library a viable and pleasant place for the community to gather, learn, and discover.

Our collection totals over 80,000 items, providing not only book sources but also magazines, CDs, audiocassettes, videotapes, and DVDs.

The Youth Services Department reading and enrichment programs attracted nearly 5,000 children a year. These programs varied from story times to programs offering music, arts, crafts, and drama.

We have a total of twenty three internet workstations for public use.  We are also a Wi-Fi spot with free internet access.

The Blackstone Library is committed to being your bridge to tomorrow and will endeavor to help make your journey through life an enjoyable passage.

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Recent News

James Blackstone Memorial Library Director's Report: January 2024

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What's Happening in James Blackstone Memorial Library - January 12, 2024

LIBRARY NEWS January 12, 2024 Meet and greet local nonprofit organizations, find out what their missions are, and learn more about the skills they’re looking for in their volunteers. Want to volunteer as a family? Many organizations take…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Cardholder Perks - January 2024

What can you do with a Library Card? You know us for our books, movies, and events, but did you know you also have access to research materials, digital collections, and training in all kinds of skills? And, like all our collections, access is…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - January 5, 2023

Community Volunteer Fair January 13, from 10 am – 1 pm Meet and greet local nonprofit organizations, find out what their missions are, and learn more about the skills they’re looking for in their volunteers. Want to volunteer as a…

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Blackstone Memorial Library News - January 1 to January 14, 2024

Banned Book Club: Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews Tuesday, January 2 from 6:30 - 7:30pm Join us for our next Blackstone Banned Book Club meeting! This group meets the first Tuesday of every month to have a non-judgemental, civil…

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What's Happening in James Blackstone Memorial Library - January 2024

Click here to read the Blackstone Library 2022-2023 Annual Report to the Town Do you want to give back to your community, but aren’t sure how to go about it? Check out our Community Volunteer Fair! You can chat with representatives from local…

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Winter Fun at the Blackstone Library! - December 25, 2023 - January 7, 2024

Trivia Night at Caius Farm Brewery Thursday, December 28 from 6:30 - 8 Join us for monthly trivia nights at Caius Farm Brewery in Branford, hosted by our Reference department. It's free to join and we'll have prizes for the winners. Are you smarter…

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Blackstone Memorial Library News - December 22, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS December 22, 2023 Click here to read the Blackstone Library 2022-2023 Annual Report to the Town COMMUNITY NEWS The events listed below are not sponsored by Blackstone Library. 39th Annual MLK Celebration and Breakfast. …

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Blackstone Memorial Library News - December 20, 2023

What can you do with a Library Card? So many things! Everyone needs a creative outlet, but taking the plunge into learning a new skill can sometimes be intimidating. The Blackstone Library is here to make it a little easier for you with access to…

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Winter Fun at the Blackstone Library! - December 18 - December 31, 2023

Trivia Night at Caius Farm Brewery Thursday, December 28 from 6:30 - 8 Join us for monthly trivia nights at Caius Farm Brewery in Branford, hosted by our Reference department. It's free to join and we'll have prizes for the winners. Are you smarter…

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Blackstone Library 2022-2023 Annual Report to the Town

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What's Happening in James Blackstone Memorial Library - December 2023

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Check Out this Month's Library Perks!

What can you do with a Library Card? You know us for our books, movies, and events, but did you know you also have access to research materials, digital collections, and training in all kinds of skills? And, like all our collections, access is…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Director's Report: December 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - December 8, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS December 8, 2023 The Friends Holiday Gift Basket Sale takes place December 7-10. Donations are now being accepted. Click here for more information. We're participating in this year's Wreath Extravaganza to benefit Feed Branford…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - December 11 - December 24, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - December 1, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - November 30, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Newsletter - November 24, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS November 24, 2023 The Community Dining Room is seeking donations of both food and diapers, and the Blackstone is an official drop-off location! From now until Thursday, November 30th the Blackstone Library is accepting donations…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Happenings Newsletter: November 20 - December 3, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Newsletter - November 17, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - November 14, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - November 10, 2023

The Community Dining Room is seeking donations of both food and diapers, and the Blackstone is an official drop-off location! From now until Thursday, November 30th the Blackstone Library is accepting donations for the Community Dining…

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Help Put the Giving in Thanksgiving!

The Community Dining Room is seeking donations of both food and diapers, and the Blackstone is now an official drop-off location! From now until Thursday, November 30th you can drop off your donations in the donation boxes in our lobby, or they can…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Happenings Newsletter: November 6 - 19, 2023

The Sicilian Puppet Theater of Agrippino Manteo Monday, November 6 from 6:30 - 7:30pm The Stony Creek Museum is dedicated to sharing the history, culture, and community of Stony Creek and the Thimble Islands. Join us for their annual virtual…

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What's Happening in Branford in October and November 2023

The Friends In-Library Book Sale Cart is FINALLY BACK!!! Located on the main level in the library rotunda, it’s filled with fiction, children’s and this month’s special shelf is biographies. Stop in and see what we have. You might…

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Blackstone Library Director's Report: October 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - October 23 - November 5, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Willie Harris: Jim Crow Survivor, Hollywood Stuntman, and Civil Rights Activist Monday, October 23 from 6:30 -…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Perk Spotlight: Genealogy

What can you do with a Library Card? So many things! In honor of Family History Month, check out these featured resources we offer to help you on your research journey from the comfort of your home. Many people are familiar with Ancestry.com,…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - October 13, 2023

We are so excited to bring this event back to the Blackstone Library. The evening will consist of whiskey and spirit tasting (provided by Branford Wine & Liquor), sessions with psychic mediums, silent auction, light refreshments and so much…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - October 6, 2023

We are so excited to bring this event back to the Blackstone Library. The evening will consist of whiskey and spirit tasting (provided by Branford Wine & Liquor), sessions with psychic mediums, silent auction, light refreshments and so much…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - October 4, 2023

What can you do with a Library Card? Your Blackstone Library card grants you access to all kinds of resources. You know us for our books, movies, and events, but did you know you also have access to research materials, digital collections, and…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - September 29, 2023

We are so excited to bring this event back to the Blackstone Library. The evening will consist of whiskey and spirit tasting (provided by Branford Wine & Liquor), sessions with psychic mediums, silent auction, light refreshments and so much…

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Blackstone Library - Applications for Branford Poet Laureate Now Being Accepted

Joining other towns across Connecticut, the Blackstone Library is establishing an honorary Poet Laureate post for Branford. Applications are now being accepted (due October 6, 2023). The mission of Branford’s Poet Laureate Program is to…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Happenings Newsletter - September 15, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - September 9, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - September 2, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - September 4, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Due to a staff training event, the library will open at 1pm on Friday, September 8. Sunday hours (1–4…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - August 25, 2023

Did you know that August is “National Make a Will Month”? It’s a great reminder of the importance of drafting or updating your will to ensure your final wishes are executed as you intended. Thinking of including a charitable…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Summer Fun - August 28 - September 10, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Sunday hours (1–4 pm) begin September 10! Color & Conversation Monday, August 28 from 6 - 7:30pm…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Summer Fun - August 21 - September 3, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Community Updates - August 19, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS August is National "Make a Will" Month Did you know that August is “National Make a Will Month”? It’s a great reminder of the importance of drafting or updating your will to ensure your final wishes are executed as…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Director's Report: August 2023

Join us! Saturday, August 18 - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Let's end summer with a bang at Lawn-a-Palooza! We'll have live music and lawn games. It'll be fun for all ages, so grab a picnic, bring a chair and have some fun! Sponsored by the David Hughes…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - August 12, 2023

Did you know that August is “National Make a Will Month”? It’s a great reminder of the importance of drafting or updating your will to ensure your final wishes are executed as you intended. Thinking of including a charitable…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Summer Fun - July 31 - August 13, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Lawn-a-Palooza at the Blackstone Library! Saturday, August 19 from 10am - 1pm We're saying goodbye to summer…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - August 4, 2023

Creativebug offers free video guides to library users on a variety of different arts, including crocheting, painting, sewing and more! Log in here with your library card to get started on the classes below and more:…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Director's Report: July 2023

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Blackstone Memorial Library News - August 1, 2023

Join us for our adult summer reading game that asks you to share your voice by completing weekly challenges dealing with reading, exploring, and trying new things! The best part? Each challenge will lead you closer to the “treasure” of…

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Summer Fun at the Blackstone Library - July 31 - August 13, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Drop-in Tech Help Thursday, August 3 from 1:30 - 3:30pm Confused about your new iPhone or iPad? Need help…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - July 24, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - July 21, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - Summer Reading

Join us for our adult summer reading game that asks you to share your voice by completing weekly challenges dealing with reading, exploring, and trying new things! The best part? Each challenge will lead you closer to the “treasure” of…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - July 15, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS July 15, 2023 Thanks to the Friends, the Blackstone Library now has memory kits available for checkout! Each kit contains items related to a specific decade, along with a book for caregivers and families. Our current kits are…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - July 7, 2023

Thanks to the Friends, the Blackstone Library now has memory kits available for checkout! Each kit contains items related to a specific decade, along with a book for caregivers and families. Our current kits are 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s themed.…

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Summer Fun At The Blackstone Library July 10 - July 23, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library : Summer Reading is Just for Kids -July 2,2023

Join us for our adult summer reading game that asks you to share your voice by completing weekly challenges dealing with reading, exploring, and trying new things! The best part? Each challenge will lead you closer to the “treasure” of…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - July 1, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS July 1, 2023 Thanks to the Friends, the Blackstone Library now has memory kits available for checkout! Each kit contains items related to a specific decade, along with a book for caregivers and families. Our current kits are…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - June 26- July 9 , 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - June 26, 2023

Did you know you can stream movies for free with your library card? For Pride Month, Kanopy has identified films that inspire, empower, and recognize the leaps and bounds the LGBTQ+ community had made in our society throughout the years. View the…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - June 16, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS The Hallmark Movies Now BingePass on hoopla gives you unlimited access to the entire Hallmark Movies Now on-demand library, for 7 days, using only one Hoopla borrow. Curl up with top-rated series like When Calls the Heart,…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library :Help Support the Branford Food Pantry

We've extended our food drive from now until the end of June. The Branford Food Pantry provides groceries for Branford residents in need. Help support their mission by donating shelf stable/nonperishable items during our Food Drive. Accepting…

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Summer Fun At The Blackstone Library June 12-25, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Juneteenth — Freedom Day The Blackstone Library will be closed Monday, June 19 for the Juneteenth holiday.…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - June 2, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News : Extended Branford Food Pantry Food Drive

We've extended our food drive from now until the end of June. The Branford Food Pantry provides groceries for Branford residents in need. Help support their mission by donating shelf stable/nonperishable items during our Food Drive. Accepting…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - May 29 to June 11, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: A River Speaks Documentary Film Screening: Presented by the Branford Land Trust and the Branford Arts and…

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Friends of Camp Verde Library - eNewsletter Summer 2023

Friends of the Library Newsletter - Spring 2023 Hi Friends of our Library! School is out and graduations are here! Summer is just around the corner! So many beautiful flowers and trees are blooming throughout our wonderful town! The Friends have…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - May 22, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Saturday Cinema: Tár Saturday, May 27 from 2 - 5pm Movie magic, now at Blackstone! Join us for…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News : Branford Food Pantry Food Drive Ends May 31

The Blackstone Library is collecting food donations to help support the Branford Food Pantry. The Branford Food Pantry provides groceries for Branford residents in need. Help support their mission by donating shelf stable/nonperishable items during…

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Blackstone Library News - May 15, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - May 12, 2023

Spring Book Sale May 12th - 12:00 pm to 6:00pm May 13th - 9:00am to 3:00pm At River Run Plaza 59 School Ground Rd., Branford, CT - Unit #4 With Libby, you can borrow ebooks, audiobooks and magazines for free with your Blackstone Library card.…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News: May 8-21, 2023

Check each program listing for details on whether it will be an online (Zoom) or in person event. Here are some upcoming highlights: Awakening to Change: A Social Justice Discussion Group Thursday, May 11 from 7 - 8pm Awakening to Change is…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - May 5, 2023

Exciting news from Hoopla! Hoopla now offers access to browse, borrow, and listen to music through Roku You can now browse, borrow, and listen to hoopla music on Roku. In addition to the hoopla movies, TV shows, and audiobooks already viewable,…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - May 1-14, 2023

Branford Forum: Protecting the Natural Beauty of Branford Sunday, May 7 from 2 - 3pm Have you hiked a trail in Branford? Or enjoyed a view of a saltmarsh? Or watched the ospreys nesting in the spring? If so, chances are you have enjoyed the…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library News - April 28, 2023

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From the Blackstone Library Director's Report - April 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - April 15, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - April 1, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS Tickets on sale now Click here for more information & to purchase tickets COMMUNITY UPDATES The events listed below are not sponsored by Blackstone Library. Looking for a fantastic volunteer opportunity? New Haven Reads…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - March 24, 2023

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD REQUEST FOR COMMENTS AND PUBLIC WORKSHOP DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) FOR TWEED NEW HAVEN AIRPORT In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Tweed New…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - March 17, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Director's Report: March 2023

Click here or on the image above to read the Director's Report. Click here to purchase tickets. Call For Silent Auction Items, Sponsorships And Volunteers — The Blackstone Library is bringing MINI GOLF back to Branford! And at Mini…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - March 11, 2023

Tickets on sale now Click here for more information & to purchase tickets Community Updates The events listed below are not sponsored by Blackstone Library. Notice Of Availability Notice Of Public Comment Period Request For Comments…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates - March 3, 2023

LIBRARY NEWS COMMUNITY UPDATES The events listed below are not sponsored by Blackstone Library. Learn if you're eligible and apply at questbridge.org NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD REQUEST FOR COMMENTS AND…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Director's Report: February 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News February 3, 2023

February Bonus Borrows Bonus Borrows are back! From February 1 - 28, access hundreds of audiobooks, ebooks, comics, and videos from hoopla without using your borrows. Check out the bonus ebooks, audiobooks, & movies here. Thank you to Big…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - January 27 2023

Thank you to Big Y for choosing the James Blackstone Memorial Library for their Community Bag Program. We are thrilled to partner with our community! If you are shopping at the Big Y on 1060 West Main Street in Branford, please consider purchasing…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - January 20, 2023

Thank you to Big Y for choosing the James Blackstone Memorial Library for their Community Bag Program. We are thrilled to partner with our community! If you are shopping at the Big Y on 1060 West Main Street in Branford, please consider purchasing…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - January 6, 2023

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - December 23, 2022

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James Blackstone Memorial Library - Happy And Healthy Holiday Season

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - December 9, 2022

Holiday Wreath Extravaganza to Benefit Feed Branford Kids Bidding ends Saturday, December 12 at NOON. Stop in to the Blackstone to bid on this gorgeous holiday wreath, decorated by Blackstone Development Coordinator Tina. Proceeds benefit Feed…

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - December 2, 2022

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James Blackstone Memorial Library Updates And Local News - November 11, 2022

CALL FOR DONATIONS: Friends Gift Basket Sale The Friends of the Library are bringing back their holiday basket sale and need your help! NOW ACCEPTING ITEM DONATIONS (new or gift quality) for the baskets. Please drop items or completed baskets off…

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