Note From the Director

Welcome to 2025! As we usher in this new year, my thoughts (like many of you, I suspect) turn to fresh starts and beginnings. I’m not a resolution-maker although I do like to ponder what could be in the year to come. My hope for the Library is that we will receive positive news regarding our grant application, allowing us to design a renovated, expanded space. Our renovation/expansion dream is not simply because we need more space to hold additional materials and programs (although that is true), it is because inclusive, accessible libraries today do so much more than act as a book repository. I recently heard a community member say that we need to stop being nostalgic about the library of our past, and I could not agree more.

Libraries of today are technology hubs where community members can access and learn about the latest tech tools. They are places to discuss topics of importance to the Town and the world. They are places of gathering where neighbors can meet, and we can help banish the epidemic of loneliness so prevalent these days. They are learning spaces where the youngest can access early literacy benefits through story times and other programs and materials, students can have spaces to study, both quiet and collaborative, and where adults can continue to discover and pursue lifelong interests. Libraries provide materials and information to assist with job searching and business development. They lend things to borrow and try, they provide discounted access to museums and cultural institutions. Most of all, libraries should be safe, accessible spaces that welcome everyone in. Read More ...

January Events

Graphic paint brush with pink on tip paints a canvas

Tiny Art Show

January 6—31

Create a 3in X 3in work for the tiny art show and drop off your tiny creations by Friday, January 10th.

Want to try a new creative endeavor in January? You can use any mediums and supplies so long as they are 3in X 3in. Return your canvas by Friday, January 10th for a chance to win a prize. There will be drawings for kids ages 0-5, 6-12, 12-18, 18-65 and 65 - 165, at the MBTS Tiny Art Show Reception and Celebration on January 25 at 1:30-3:00PM. You do not need to be present to win.

Download Form

A graphic of a face with a face mask and thier hair in a towel.

Library Spa Day!

Wednesday | January 15| 12:00—1:30PM

It's early release day, kids -- and also your big opportunity to head over to the Manchester Library for some self-care! The library's Teen Advisory Board hosts this 90-minute session of fun and fabulosity geared toward grade schoolers and tweens. And pull up a beanbag chair and join us for a special movie screening immediately afterward!

blank computer screen surrounded by hundreds of images

AI Unveiled: Exploring the Promise, Perils, and Potential of AI

Tuesday | Jan 28 | 6-7PM

Imagine a world where computers can think, learn, and even create. Welcome to the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the technology that's changing everything from how we shop to how we drive. In this presentation, we'll take a journey through the exciting world of AI, exploring its history, its amazing applications, and even the potential risks. We'll see how AI is making our lives easier, smarter, and sometimes even a little bit scary. And we'll peek into the future to see where AI might take us next.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Smiling man in a straw hat playing a guitar.

Crowell Concert Featuring: Brian Alex

Tuesday | January 7 | 6:00-7:00PM

The Library and Parks and Recreation are excited to offer a free, monthly concert series at the Crowell Chapel. On the 1st Tuesday of every month, join us at 6:00PM for music by the sea.

Singer/songwriter Brian Alex's quirky personality and unique pop-savvy style have been a significant and colorful piece of the World-Pop act Entrain since 1995 and won a Boston Music Award for “Best Live Show”. Registration is encouraged but not required.

Ball jars with a snowy down stuck to them

Create/Make: Cozy Luminaries

Saturday | January 11 | 2:00-3:30PM

Create hygge at home with these winter candle holders!

Create/Make for Adults: we'll explore different mediums and projects each month. Please register so we can plan for adequate materials. This program is designed for adults, but no artistic experience is necessary.

Come enjoy crafting and community!

TAB (Teen Advisory Board)

Tuesday | January 14 | 5:30—6:30 PM

Meeting the second Tuesday of every month at 5:30-6:30. Earn community service hours while having fun planning events for your friends and the community!

Camping gear and a book sit below a directional sign post

Graphic Novel Club: Summer Vamp

Wednesday | January 22 | 4:00—4:45 PM

Join the Graphic Novel Club! Snack and activity will be provided. This month's pick is Summer Vamp by Violet Chan Karim. Copies can be picked up at the circulation desk. For grades 4-7.

Tarot Talk Workshop

Thursday | January 23 | 5:00-7:00PM

Join Leeza Masia from The Tarot Collective for a Tarot Talk workshop.

The workshop begins with a tarot-themed talk focused on the basics of a successful, safe reading & holding space for any questions new readers might have. Then, any attendees who would like to, are invited to pull their own cards in a group reading. Bring your own deck or borrow one to explore. Leeza will share a short meditation, then guide as we shuffle, set an intention or ask the cards a question, & lay out a simple spread. All levels of experience welcome!