December at Thompson Free Library
DOVER-FOXCROFT — Great expectations. Not the Dickens’ classic or its various adaptations but those high hopes we have for the holidays vs. the sometimes less than joyous reality. Whatever your beliefs, rituals, traditions — peace on earth and joy to the world can be especially elusive when you’re trying to buy gifts on a tight budget, go to everyone’s concert, party or special event much less plan and pull off Christmas dinner. Crazy schedules can dissipate the spirit of the season. December at the Thompson Free Library can help you recapture that spirit, catch your breath, and engage your mind.
TFL’s Philosophy Circle meets at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6 to discuss music and philosophy. The philosophy of music promises to be an intriguing departure for the group. So many directions to go in. What is the definition of music? What is meaning in relation to music? What is the connection between music and emotions? Music’s purpose, aesthetics, etc. Bring an open mind and your curiosity. Prior attendance is not required and there are no assigned readings.
At 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6, Hometown Holidays kicks off with a special free showing of a brand-new Disney Christmas movie showing on Disney+. This charming take on a timeless tale features the wonderful Anna Kendrick (from Portland) as Santa’s daughter as well as Emmy winner Bill Hader and Oscar winner Shirley MacLaine. A fun time for the whole family with hot cocoa and cookies too.
The festive vibe continues on Saturday, Dec. 7 as TFL’s lead elf, Ms. Michelle, hosts ornament making from 9 a.m. to noon. This Hometown Holidays program spotlights simple crafts aimed towards kids.
That same day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. be sure to visit the Dover Cove Farmers Market downstairs. Support local farmers, get gift ideas and stock up for all your holiday get togethers. And don’t miss this year’s cookie walk. Super yum.
Krishna Bhatta, MD, chief of urology at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, talks about his book “Journey from Life to Life: Achieving Higher Purpose” at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 10. Dr. Bhatta combines the practical and the spiritual: demystifying the underlying principles of life and death while providing an accessible, easy entry into eastern spiritual teachings. He comes from a small village in India and has traveled the world, visiting and meditating at holy sites and studying spiritual traditions.
Ms. Michelle spreads even more holiday cheer with Christmas cookie decorating from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19. You get to take home your own merry and bright (and tasty) treats.
Foxcroft Academy student Laci Hughes is our Artist of the Month. Hughes shares her acrylic paintings including abstracts and landscapes bursting with vivid colors. Stop by and see the promising work of this young talent.
Finally, a special gift to all our patrons: Library Director Greta Schroeder is pleased to announce that the Thompson Free Library has gone fine free. “We no longer charge fines on late items. This ensures that all people have access to library books and materials which is our primary purpose as a public library,” she explains.
However, patrons are still responsible for returning items on time. Materials that are 30 days overdue (after renewals) are assumed lost and patrons will be billed for the replacement costs. Make sure to add your email to your TFL account if you haven’t already so you can receive overdue reminders, see what you have checked out, renew from home, and more. “We welcome your support and are happy to accept donations,” Schroeder says (see our “Love your Library” jar at the circulation desk).
The library elves want you to know that the Hallmark Channel isn’t your only refuge this holiday season. Our awesome holiday stash is on full display: an impressive lineup of new and classic DVDs and winter-themed books for all ages to keep you holly jolly and content. If you’ve lost your yuletide mojo, need some no-cost fun, or want to explore something a bit deeper, December at TFL will meet your expectations.
Holiday hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 24; closed Wednesday, Dec. 25.; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31; and closed Wednesday, Jan. 1.
All the programs mentioned are free and open to the public. For more information, please call 564-3350, email thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com, visit thompsonfreelibrary.lib.me.us or find us on Facebook.