Rise to the challenge with Thompson Free Library
By Kim Brawn
You never know what someone is going through so be kind. We’ve all heard variations of that quote — urging us to lead with empathy. Challenges can be seen or unseen, known or unknown, big or small. Programs and services at the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft can help you navigate these challenges (possibly eradicate some!) — or at least distract you from them.
January 2025 starts off with a wonderfully curated lineup from Michelle Fagan, our youth services librarian. Ms. Michelle understands the challenges people face and likes to address them head on in fun, inventive ways.
Let your problems melt away in the Hygge Nook every Wednesday from 3:30-5 p.m. Come relax in a cozy space and do quiet activities. All ages are welcome but please remember it’s a quiet space with whispers only.
Kickstart the new year by joining TFL’s monthly Reading Group. They meet Thursday, Jan. 9 at 6 p.m. to discuss “Moon in Full” by Marpheen Chann, a second-generation Asian-American writer, speaker, civil rights advocate, and gay man whose debut memoir examines various obstacles that he has faced. “Moon in Full is a beautifully written, deeply layered and open-hearted story about so many things: beauty, love, pain, loss, reunion, displacement and forgiveness,” writes author Jaed Coffin. Copies available at TFL.
It can be hard to find accessible, family friendly activities so mark your calendars and join us from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 14 for our monthly Family Fun Night. There will be trivia and chili and activities for younger kids too.
When you homeschool your children it can be hard for them to connect with other kids and for you to meet other adults on a similar path. That’s why Ms. Michelle came up with Homeschool Drop-in time. In January, feel free to stop by the library from 1-2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 15 to gather with other homeschool families during this monthly program which features self-led projects for the kids.
Caturday has quickly turned into (almost) everyone’s favorite Saturday of the month at TFL. It’s when our director Jon Knepp brings his adorable cats, Freya and Andy Jr., to the library. Join us 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18 to watch these fabulous felines play, lounge, groom, and sleep — maybe even get a chance to pet them. For those who are allergic or not feline fans, please let us know and accommodations will be made.
Reading together as a family is great fun and an invaluable learning experience. TFL’s monthly Family Book Club is the perfect way to foster a love of books and improve reading skills. Join Ms. Michelle 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 21 to eat pizza and talk books. Chat about the current read “Harriet the Spy” by Louise Fitzhugh and get next month’s book “Gone Away Lake” by Elizabeth Enright. Contact Michelle for copies.
Sensory Play Group is a monthly program for children who are neurodivergent or have disabilities that offers support and connection to both kids and their caregivers. There will be play activities with many ability ranges in mind. Bring a bag lunch or snack from home to eat during the group time. January’s session will be held on Tuesday the 28th from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Open to the whole family, all ages.
Libraries can’t solve every problem, but they can definitely help. It’s amazing how much better we feel when we conquer small tasks like printing a return label, a favorite recipe or making copies of a flyer — or bigger ones like faxing important documents or researching a newly diagnosed health issue. We don’t need to know the specifics of what everyone is dealing with — or spill the tea on ourselves — but it’s good to know that whatever the new year brings, we’re not alone, there are valuable resources nearby and kind people who will rise to the challenge.
Please note the library’s holiday schedule: Closing at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 24. Closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day (Wednesday, Dec. 25 and Wednesday, Jan. 1).
TFL hours: Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit our website www.thompsonfreelibrary.org, our Facebook page, Instagram @tf_library, or contact us at thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com or 207-564-3350. All programs are free and open to the public.