New at Newton Free Library

This month we're pleased to share a few updates that will make using the library more convenient and enriching.

With our new wireless printing service, you can access the Library’s printer from anywhere! Simply submit documents through email or the web, then come to the Library to release and pick up your print jobs.

Druker Auditorium just received a major upgrade to the audio system. The original sound system was 30 years old, in fact the ceiling was installed around the original speakers! We've installed over a dozen new speakers that will greatly enhance the sound quality and added new controls that will help presenters bring you a more seamless audio visual experience. This upgrade was made possible, in part, through generous contributions received in loving memory of Barbara Brin Hyatt. She was a dedicated library user and wonderful volunteer for the English Language Learner Program for many years. Her love of the library will ensure today's visitors will enjoy programs to the fullest!

Teen Study Nights: Monday June 12, Tuesday June 13, and Wednesday June 14th

Just in time for high school finals, the Library will be open until 11 pm Monday, June 12 - Wednesday June 14 to give students extra time to prepare for their exams and final projects.

We'll have school supplies on hand, and offer special destressing activities and of course snacks!  Officer Leo, (Newton's beloved K-9 Police Dog), will make an appearance on 6/12 at 3pm and 6/14 at 5pm in the Teen Room. On 6/13, students are encouraged to take a break and join the Typewriter Poetry Group at 4pm to write motivational poems on old-school typewriters.

Last held in 2019, Teen Study Nights were a popular event which encouraged over 300+ students to visit the Library each afternoon/evening to study. Bringing back this event has been an important library goal to support students in our community. Finals are a stressful time and we're happy to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for them to prepare for exams. 

Please anticipate there will be more "bustle" in the Library during these dates. Our dedicated quiet area is located in the back of the second floor. 

Celebrating Pride

June is Pride Month and we’re thrilled to participate in Newton Celebrates Pride, a month-long, city-wide celebration.

Sharpen your ally skills in our LGBTQIA+ Terminology 101 program, learn about the history of same-sex marriage with author Sasha Issenberg discussing his book The Engagement, discover the history behind revolutionary war heroine Deborah Sampson with Alex Myers (author of Revolutionary) and/or hear stories that reflect the LGBTQ+ experience in Newton with the Newton Theatre Company 

Our Children's and Teen room are colorful and affirming spaces particularly this month with their Proud to Be Me festivities and programs. From Zine Making to Pop Art - there's celebrations for all ages.

For a complete list of City-wide Pride events click here.

Juneteenth Program Highlight

Acclaimed singer-songwriter,  jazz musician, activist and educator Pamela Means takes Newton Free Library by song!

Join us for a special program that will include songs connected to the history of Juneteenth and Emancipation. Included in the program will be songs from the exodus and songs of the slavery era that suggested hope and freedom. She will perform Follow The Drinking Gourd, Soon Ah Will Be Done, as well as Strange Fruit, Talking’ ‘Bout a Revolution and What’s Going On, among others. Included in the program will be songs from the exodus and songs of the slavery era that suggested hope and freedom. Means will help the audience imagine how a song may have helped those in bondage survive terrible moments, navigate unspeakable traumas, and despite cruel reality, envision a new day for themselves and future generations.

The Power of the Protest Song with Pamela Means

Tuesday, June 20 at 7pm

Grab Your Sunscreen - Summer Reading is Coming June 12th 

"Find your Voice," the Summer Reading theme and this year's program will have kids, tweens and teens shrieking with joy as they read books, complete adventures and win prizes!

The program will run from June 12 to September 1. Register on Beanstack, our online summer reading platform, to:

Keep track of your time spent reading alone or with a parent, siblings or friends;
Share book reviews;
and, complete our special adventure challenges!

You'll be entered in a weekly drawing for prizes now through the end of August! Click here for information on registration, programs and book suggestions.

Staff Spotlight - Meet Libby
A Newton Free Library patron since childhood, Libby Carberry has seen us go through many changes, and is excited to be working as a Senior Library Assistant in the beautiful new Children’s Room. Recently promoted to full time, she looks forward to continuing to build community among our staff and patrons. When she’s not at the library, Libby spends her time in pursuit of her Master’s Degree in Library Science, analog collaging, or embroidering while listening to an audiobook.

Apply to Exhibit Your Art at the Newton Free Library! Information and application instructions are here.

Proposals are currently being accepted for January - June 2024 exhibits. As one of the busiest public library buildings in Massachusetts, our galleries are highly sought after and well-loved by library patrons. We welcome applications from New England region artists showing two-dimensional works, or works that are compatible with the Walker Rod system. We encourage artists from a variety of ethnicities and life experiences to apply.

Info contact Ellen at [email protected].