September at Thompson Free Library
DOVER-FOXCROFT — If the idea of a total makeover or a complete revamp seems overwhelming, why not aim for a small shift? Sometimes a well-timed, quick reboot will do the trick and is more convenient, fun, and can infuse daily life with a cool and interesting vibe. The Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft is just the spot to mix things up a little.
Let’s begin with the little ones. Children’s librarian Michelle Fagan is starting off the school year with her relaxing Bedtime Storytime on Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 6 p.m. (and continues every other Tuesday at 6 p.m.). The focus, she says, will be on “quiet, cozy stories to end the day.”
RIP LEGO TUESDAYS—but don’t worry—it’s only changing days! Ms. Michelle is introducing Kid Zone Wednesdays which will alternate between art and Legos and board games every Wednesday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. So, Wednesday, Sept. 4 will be art and Sept. 11 will be Legos and board games. Now Wednesdays = cool projects + fun times. Be sure to pick up a handy Kid Zone Wednesdays schedule at the library.
Storytime (for ages birth to 6) remains in its usual slot, Thursdays at 11 a.m. Ms. Michelle looks forward to seeing new and familiar faces. “It’s a time for stories, songs, and friends,” she says, “It’s also a good way to increase children’s literacy through words, song and play.”
September is the American Library Association’s Library Card Sign-up month. Students at the SeDoMoCha School and Foxcroft Academy, as well as educators at both schools, can get a free library card. It’s a small step that opens up a big world.
We have plenty to offer other demographics as well. Adding a little mystery to the proceedings is sure to spice things up when you “Meet Maine Mystery Writers Maureen Milliken and Sandra Neily” on Thursday, Sept. 5 at 5:30 p.m. Maureen, with her 30-plus years in journalism and Sandra, with her experiences as a registered Maine guide and white-water river outfitter, talk about their respective books “Bad News Travels Fast” and “Deadly Trespass.” Find out how Maine’s outdoor landscape plays an important role, alongside their strong female lead characters.
As someone who has been called too philosophical and not pragmatic enough, I’m very intrigued by the TFL Philosophy Club’s pick of progressive educator John Dewey, an American philosopher who founded the pragmatism movement and was a pioneer in functional psychology. Bring an open mind and your curiosity to see how these seemingly opposing perspectives meld on Friday, Sept. 6 at 3:30 p.m. No special reading or prior participation is needed.
Find support with those who may be on a similar journey at Pine Tree Hospice’s Caregiving and Bereavement Book Club on Thursday, Sept. 19 from 3:30-5 p.m. The first reading is Nicolas Spark’s “The Notebook” (described as a poignant and compelling love story about loss and discovery, grief and caring). Reading materials are available to borrow at the library.
For a different take on TFL’s 101 Series join our guide, poet and library guy Tom Lyford on Thursday, Sept. 12 at 1:30 p.m. for Lyrical “Fireworks” 101 — a unique magical mystery tour of surprising songs and lyrics he’s mined over the decades. The emphasis is on pure listening entertainment, ranging from audio “fireworks” (with printed lyrics) that will touch your heart and tickle your funny bone. Get ready to groove on unexpected gems from Peter Sellers, Johnny Cash and more.
Switching from playlists to live music, on Thursday, Sept. 19 at 6 p.m. the talented trio of violinist Susan Ramsey, cellist Ruth Fogg and harpist Isleen Halvorsen perform a variety of music including Celtic, contemporary,and classical. What a perfect pre-Friday wind down!
Don’t forget to stop by to see “10 x 10” an art exhibit featuring the creative work of art educators Jane Blay and Martha Ladd who teach in Dover-Foxcroft. According to Jane, “The idea was to create art within a 10 by 10-inch area. Any medium could be used to fill the dimensions. Any style could be incorporated, from realism to abstract and any area could be investigated such as landscape, photography or even mixed media.”
“This theme encouraged us to explore and experiment,” added Martha.
Finally, movie buffs take note: TFL’s Free Movie Night returns on Friday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. with another fine film you may have missed. Details coming soon.
The arrival of September may signal the waning days of summer, but it can also be the best time of year to make small positive changes, switch up your routine, take a much-needed break and come to the library. New and unexpected experiences await. Oh, and we have really cool books too.
All the programs mentioned above are free and open to the public. For more information, call 564-3350, email thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com, visit our website thompsonfreelibrary.lib.me.us or find us on Facebook.