Updated Library Browsing Hours
The Manchester Library has updated the hours for the public to come into the building to enjoy library services. From 1 to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 1 to 7 p.m. on Thursdays, and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, patrons may come into the library without making a reservation. Limited reservation times at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays will still be open for seniors and those who are high risk. The library asks that patrons continue to wear a mask, sanitize their hands and remain socially distant while inside the building. Curbside pickup hours will continue on Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursdays 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Call 978-526-7711 to request a pickup.
Memorial Day Closing
The library will be closed for Curbside Pickup on Monday, May 31 in honor of Memorial Day. The library will resume its regular Curbside Pickup hours on Tuesday, June 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Stories & Songs on the Library Lawn
Fridays (June 4 and June 11) at 10 a.m.
Join preschool teacher and musician Ms. Katie for a fun early literacy music and movement story time. Designed for children birth to eight years and their adult. Registration is required and space is limited: www.EarlyChildhoodPartners.com. In the event of rain, a Zoom link will be sent to registrants.
Online Cooking Class with Simply Creative’s Rob Scott: Blueberry Cinnamon Streusel
On Friday, June 4 at 7 p.m. the Manchester Public Library is partnering with Simply Creative's Rob Scott where he will host an online cooking class on putting together an easy and delicious desert you can use all summer long! Join us on Zoom and learn how to make a Blueberry Cream Cheese Cake with a Brown Sugar Cinnamon Streusel. You can also access the recipe ahead of time and follow along with Rob to learn his tips and tricks for putting together this delicious treat. To register for this event please contact Rachael Meneades at remeneades@manchesterpl.org or go to the library’s website at manchesterpl.org and click on Events. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Coming Soon: Families Exploring Equity and Diversity (F.E.E.D.) Family Book Group
Sunday, June 6th @ 9AM at Masconomo Park for an Introductory Meet-Up and Playdate
Join The Manchester Public Library and Educator and Diversity Trainer, Lindsay Banks, to learn more about this exciting opportunity to explore equity and diversity through books, discussion and hands-on-activities. Designed for children ages 4-8 years and their families ~ we invite everyone to join!
For more information, and to register please contact: Lindsay Banks at FEEDinME.123@gmail.com or Carol Bender at cbender@manchesterpl.org
The Cooking Gene: Tracing my African American Story Through Food with Michael Twitty
On June 10 at 7 p.m. the Manchester Library has partnered with the Groton Public library and 23 other public libraries to host African American culinary historian and James Beard Award winner Michael W. Twitty for an online presentation where Michael will discuss his award-winning book The Cooking Gene and his journey to trace his family history through the story of Southern and American food. Using genetic research, historic interpretation, nature study, heirloom gardening and interviews with contemporary voices in food, his journey led him back to his family’s origins in West and Central Africa and a front row seat in the debate over race and food in American life. To register for this event please contact Rachael Meneades at remeneades@manchesterpl.org or go to the library’s website and click on Events. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Coffee Chat
Join Manchester library staff on Zoom to talk about yours and their favorite reads. We will meet the first Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m. for 30 minutes, and the next event will be on Tuesday on June 1. Take this chance to have a coffee and chat about what we've been reading! If you would like to register, please contact Sara Collins at scollins@manchesterpl.org or go to the library’s website and click on Events. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. You do not need a zoom account to join.
AAA Bike and Safety Presentation
Even though Bike Safety month is in May, you can still join AAA for its online presentation at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 9. Biking enthusiasts and families can learn about the importance of wearing protective gear, staying visible when biking outside, how to use hand signals, and where to find safe places to ride and walk. The AAA presenter will also share the laws and rules of the road to help everyone have a safe and fun biking experience. To register for this event please contact Rachael Meneades at remeneades@manchesterpl.org or go to the library’s website and click on Events. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Online Hearthside Book Group
At 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 1 on Zoom to discuss The Exiles by Christina Baker Kline. Contact Lori Dumont at ldumont@manchesterpl.org to register for this book group meeting. Copies of this book are available at the circulation desk. Use the library's curbside pickup or home delivery service to get a copy.
Online Diversity Reads Book Group
At 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 8 on Zoom, the Diversity Matters group will discuss “Five Days” by Wes Moore and Erica L. Green. Call the library at 978-526-7711 to ask if copies of these titles are available at the circulation desk, and you can use the library’s curbside pickup service to get a copy. Please let any friends or neighbors who might be interested about the group or its readings. The group hopes to continue the exploration, thinking, and conversations of this important issue with more community members.
The Mystery Book Group will meet at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 28 to discuss Crocodiles on the Sandbank by Elizabeth Peters. New members are always welcome. Those interested should contact Rachael Meneades at rmeneades@manchesterpl.org to receive the Zoom login information.
Salamander Story Time Video & Activity Kit
Join Ms. Carol for a salamander-themed story time (links posted on Library website and Facebook page) then reserve your activity craft kit available during curbside pick-up hours. Kits are limited; please call 978-526-7711 to reserve yours today. These offerings are offered in collaboration with MECT Story Trail Salamander Sky and are designed to further learning and engagement. This program was made possible by the Hooper Fund.
Let’s Make Music with Ms. Teresa: Free Music Activity Kit & Videos
Free Music Kits for children ages birth through age 4 years old are available for pick-up during curbside hours. No more than two kits per family. Limited kits available so please call 978-526-7711 to reserve one. Then, join Teresa Coelho for an interactive music video created for children birth through age four with an adult, but older siblings will want to join the fun. Links are posted on our Facebook and Children’s webpage.
