HPL Newsletter - April 2026
Matthew Leathers
From The Director's Desk
Find Your Joy
April 19 through April 24, 2026 is National Library Week. Mychal Threets, the award-winning librarian, author, and new host of the children’s program Reading Rainbow, is serving as Honorary Chair this year.
This year’s theme, “Find Your Joy,” is an invitation for people of all backgrounds to discover what sparks joy in them in the library. It’s a theme that is present in Threet’s viral videos and his picture book, I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy, which was published on February 3, 2026.
Libraries bring people together in a myriad of ways, including books and digital resources, computer assistance, museum passes, and imaginative programming. Public libraries are essential to thriving communities and are often one of the ways in which people decide where to call home. Whether you are a longtime, regular patron, a new neighbor, or haven’t visited us in a long while, now is the perfect time to explore all we have to offer.
What brings YOU joy at the library? The library staff would love to know! During National Library Week, help us celebrate by writing what brings you joy on our whiteboard. We will pull all answers together and share them with you!
National Library Workers Day is Tuesday, April 21, 2026. NLWD is a day for library staff, users, administrators and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers. The staff at the HPL are professionals, dedicated to helping you and providing a welcoming space for all. Take a moment during the week to thank a staff member that has helped you in some way. While we are always open to constructive criticism, we love to hear thanks or a story about another staff member that went out of their way to help and make you feel welcome.
Respectfully submitted,
Nanci M. Hill
Library Director
April’s Guest Librarians:
Hula - Therapy & First Responder Dog
Hula has a big heart and a calm paw, visiting hospitals, schools, and first responders to bring comfort wherever she goes. When she's not spreading joy, she's supervising library stacks and making sure every book is sniff-approved. Hula knows a good story when she sees one - and she's not afraid to give it a little tail-wag of approval.
Puppy Purton - Canine Companions Trainee
Puppy Purton is training hard to become a service dog. Curious, playful, and clever, she's learning the ropes of helping people and being a gentle, reliable companion. As a guest librarian, Purton loves jumping into new adventures - especially ones involving books, treats, and a cozy reading corner. She's on a mission to grow up smart, strong, and paws-itively helpful!
Hula & Puppy Purton Recommend:
Early Readers // Picture Books:
Bridwell, Norman. Clifford the Big Red Dog
Day, Alexandra. Good Dog, Carl
Eastman, PD. Go, Dog. Go!
Kelly, John. Andy: A Dog's Tale
Lowrey, Janette Sebring. The Poky Little Puppy
Meddaugh, Susan. Martha Speaks
Rathmann, Peggy. Officer Buckle and Gloria
Zion, Gene. Harry, the Dirty Dog
Middle-Grade // Young Teen:
DiCamillo, Kate. Because of Winn-Dixie
Grogan, John. Marley: A Dog Like No Other
Hatkoff, Isabella. Owen & Mzee: The Language of Friendship
Miles, Ellen. The Puppy Place: Goldie
Adult:
Cameron, W. Bruce. A Dog's Purpose
Grogan, John. Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog
Horowitz, Alexandra. Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know
Nunez, Sigrid. The Friend
Stein, Garth. The Art of Racing in the Rain
Adventure Pass of the Month - Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The Gardner Museum houses the collection of Isabella Stewart Gardner, a local patron of the arts who died in 1924, in a building she commissioned to look like a 15th century Venetian palazzo. The center of the original building showcases courtyard plantings that reflect the seasons as they evolve throughout the year. In addition to her collection, which remains displayed exactly as she arranged it per her will, there are changing exhibitions, concerts, lectures, family events, and an artist-in-residence program.
Our Adventure Passes are generously funded by The Friends of Hopkinton Public Library.
Library "Thing" of the Month - GRIT Freedom Chair
The GRIT Freedom Chair is a mobility aid designed to traverse difficult and rough outdoor terrain. Inspired by mountain bikes, its tires are rugged enough to handle dirt, gravel, sand, and snow, and its wide, steel-aluminum frame is designed to minimize the risk of tipping over while traversing outdoor terrain. The chair is also designed to be easy to disassemble for transportation.
You can reserve this by visiting our Library of Things page. The Library of Things is generously supported by the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation.
Programs are hosted at the library unless otherwise noted.
Registration is required for many programs.
Visit our website calendar to obtain updated information and registration.
Programs are subject to change or cancellation.
For Multiple Ages
250th: Hatching Democracy - America's Goose Heritage
Friday, March 27 through Saturday, April 25
All Ages are invited to visit the Children's Room to view our incubating goose eggs as we await Goose Hatch Day (April 26th)! This year, all eggs are Pilgrim or Toulouse breed goose eggs. Both breeds are listed on the Livestock Conservancy's list as Threatened or Watch status heritage breeds.
Want to learn more about chicken and goose heritage breeds? Register for our program 250th: Chickens 101 on Tuesday, April 21st from 1:00 to 2:00 PM.
This program is generously funded by the Hopkinton Library Foundation.
250th: Songs of the American Revolution
Sunday, April 12 | 2:00 - 3:30 PM
Come listen to songs enjoyed by both sides during the American Revolution, when the colonies echoed with marching tunes, ballads, and hymns created to promote either rebellion or loyalty to the crown. Diane wears period clothing and accompanies her singing on authentic instruments.
Folk songs let us see the inner lives of all the people involved, not just the rich and famous. Women, especially, left few records behind. Diane explores their stories and those of the people both free and enslaved who fought on both sides.
This program is generously funded by the Hopkinton Library Foundation.
Narcan Training and Community Harm Reduction with the Hopkinton Health Department
Tuesday, April 14 | 5:30 - 6:30 PM
Narcan is the brand name of the generic Naloxone and is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids. This free Narcan training will provide participants with a brief training on how to recognize an opioid overdose, when and how to use Narcan, and a free kit to take home.
This event is put on by the Hopkinton Board of Health in partnership with the Hopkinton Public Library.
250th: Chickens 101: Dominiques
Tuesday, April 21 | 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Come learn about Dominique chickens, the first true “American” breed developed in America around 1750. Dominique chickens are listed on the Livestock Conservancy's list of rare/threatened heritage breeds. This program includes a presentation with live Dominique chickens led by our Assistant Director and farm owner, Jak Miller.
This program is generously funded by the Hopkinton Library Foundation.
Earth Day Crafternoon
Wednesday, April 22 | 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Create some Upcycled art with us to celebrate Earth Day. Open to adults, teens, and kids ages 9 and up.
Conversation Circles
ELL Conversation Group - Intermediate Learners
Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, and 29 | 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Intermediate Learners have mastered basic vocabulary and simple grammar and are now focused on greater comfort level in everyday conversations. At the Intermediate level, we will prioritize components of grammar, vocabulary expansion, reading comprehension, and group discussion. Reading together helps to expand vocabulary, and provides a focus for group discussion and increased understanding of the complexities of language.
Registration is optional. Registering will sign you up for reminder emails and updates about meeting cancellations. Cancellations will also be posted on the library’s calendar.
Our English Language Learning groups are made possible by the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library.
ELL Conversation Group - Conversation and Culture
Thursday, April 2, 9, 16, and 30 | 6:30 - 7:45 PM
Conversation and Culture is a gathering of new and old friends who meet under the direction of a leader to focus on English fluency. Participants who choose this offering are fairly comfortable in everyday conversation but recognize the need to be more comfortable in the world around them.
Under the direction of the group leader, an informal survey is conducted to identify topics of interest for the group. These topics of conversation provide a focus for expanding vocabulary and understanding idioms and colloquialisms. One night the conversation might focus on great places to hike, or fascinating facts about the Boston Marathon or how and why we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Other times the focus might be more practical, such as how to navigate town government or how to become a volunteer. Often local community experts will lead the discussion. A member of town government, a local historian, or business owner may lead the group. Participants always are encouraged to share their own stories and expand the conversation.
No matter what the evenings focus might be, Conversation and Culture will help the participants to enrich their vocabulary, practice communication skills, and learn about the local community.
Registration is optional. Registering will sign you up for reminder emails and updates about meeting cancellations. Cancellations will also be posted on the library’s calendar.
Our English Language Learning groups are made possible by the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library.
ELL Conversation Group - Beginning Learners
Friday, April 3 and 17 | 10:30 - 11:30 AM
Thursday, April 9 | 10:30 - 11:30 AM
ELL Conversation Circle for Beginning Learners is appropriate for someone with very limited experience with the English language. This learner may be familiar with basic vocabulary and simple phrases but is struggling with everyday conversations.
The beginner group provides an opportunity to build English vocabulary, and practice grammar and reading in a supportive setting. Each meeting emphasizes new vocabulary, common idioms and basic rules of grammar. Emphasis is also placed on improving conversation skills that reflect everyday interactions.
In order to create a comfortable environment, this class is limited to true beginners. Please consider our Intermediate group or Conversations and Culture if you are no longer a beginner.
Registration is optional. Registering will sign you up for reminder emails and updates about meeting cancellations. Cancellations will also be posted on the library’s calendar.
Our English Language Learning groups are made possible by the Friends of the Hopkinton Public Library.
Adult Programs
VIRTUAL - On a Mission: The History of US Women Astronauts
Thursday, April 2 | 2:00 - 3:30 PM
Join us for an exhilarating journey through the history of US women astronauts with Valerie Neal, emerita curator from the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum and expert on human spaceflight.
Sally Ride became a household name as the first American woman in space, but scores of equally impressive women have also left their mark in space. On a Mission: The Smithsonian History of US Women Astronauts spans 45 years and 61 astronauts to share the epic journeys of women who made space for themselves in a male-dominated field.
Valerie Neal interviewed many of the US women astronauts to bring their experiences to life. She offers a culturally insightful history of their achievements, the challenges they've faced, and their distinctive stories. Collectively, they've completed more than 100 space shuttle missions, and more than 30 long-duration stays on the International Space Station and Russian Space Station Mir, and they continue to prove themselves in present-day space exploration efforts.
The book includes 50 black-and-white photographs to complement the historical account. With its sweeping look from the first women astronauts to Christina Hammock Koch, assigned to the first crewed Artemis mission around the Moon, there is no comparably thorough book on America's women astronauts. On a Mission is an inspiring tribute to unsung women's history.
Click here to register now and take part in this inspirational discussion!
About the Author: Valerie Neal is a space historian and Curator Emerita at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC. Her specialty is human spaceflight, space technology, and space science in the Space Shuttle era and beyond. At the Museum, she collected more than 1500 artifacts of the shuttle era, curated three exhibitions and eight documentary programs for the Smithsonian Channel (cable TV), published books and articles growing from her research, lectured in the USA and abroad, and gave many interviews for US and international media.
Before joining the Museum, she was a writer and editor for some 25 NASA publications on Space Shuttle and Spacelab missions, the Hubble Space Telescope and other Great Observatories, space science, and NASA History. She participated in underwater astronaut training in Alabama and mission support in Houston for four Space Shuttle missions. She has taught American Studies and writing courses at multiple universities. Valerie Neal holds Ph.D. and M.A. degrees in American Studies and a B.A. degree in English and History.
Drop-In CreatorSpace Hours
Monday, April 6, 13, and 27 | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Tuesday, April 14 | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Wednesday, April 8, 15, 22, and 29 | 9:30 - 11:30 AM
Thursday, April 2, 16, 23, and 30 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Join us for Drop-In Craft Hours in the CreatorSpace! Find out more about our CreatorSpace at this link. CreatorSpace users must pre-register at the Reference Desk. Users must be over the age of 10. Users ages 10 to 17 require a parent's or legal guardian's signature before CreatorSpace use. The maximum capacity of the room is 10 users at one time.
While this is a drop-in program, a CreatorSpace Card is required.
CreatorSpace Staffers:
Monday, 5:30 - 7:30 PM: Our CreatorSpace staffer is Jak; her expertise is in fiber arts, paper crafts, and general crafting.
Tuesday, 5:30 - 7:30 PM: Our CreatorSpace staffer is Danielle; her expertise is in fiber arts, paper crafts, and general crafting.
Wednesday, 9:30 - 11:30 AM: Our CreatorSpace staffer is Danielle; her expertise is in fiber arts, paper crafts, and general crafting.
Thursday, 2:00 - 4:00 PM: Our CreatorSpace staffer is Danielle; her expertise is in fiber arts, paper crafts, and general crafting.
Scrabble Group and Mahjong Group
Tuesday, April 7 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Join us for Scrabble Group and Mahjong Group, where we play Scrabble and Mahjong! We'll provide Scrabble sets, but we don't have a Mahjong set at this time. Please bring your own set if you can! No registration is required.
National Quilt Project: Share your story with a painted quilt square
Tuesday, April 7 | 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Participate in the National Quilt Project, an initiative that seeks to "stitch America together again." Decorate a quilt square representing your part in the rich mosaic of our country, and leave it with us to be exhibited locally and nationally. Learn more about the Project by clicking here. This event is offered with assistance from the Hopkinton Marathon Quilter's Guild.
This session, we will use fabric paint to decorate a quilt square. This program is for ages 10 to Adult.
A signed CreatorSpace waiver is required for access to most CreatorSpace events. This event does not require a signed waiver.
We encourage all CreatorSpace users to sign a waiver (or have a parent/guardian sign if between the ages of 10 and 17). Once signed, the waiver confers full access to all events that the user is eligible for.
D20’s D&D Campaign (Ages 18-25)
Wednesday, April 8 and 22 | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
A Dungeons & Dragons group for adults ages 18 to 25! The group will meet every other Wednesday at 5:30 PM in the library's Ellsworth Room. New and experienced adventurers are welcome.
Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle
Wednesday, April 8 | 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Join us for the Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle! Bring your current project or pattern. This group is open to teens and adults of all skill levels. All fiber arts crafts (knitting, crochet, hand quilting, needlepoint, cross-stitch, finger knitting, needle felting, etc.) are more than welcome to join us! This group will meet on the second Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 7:30 PM.
This event will be held in the CreatorSpace and you are highly encouraged to get your CreatorSpace cards. In order to use some CreatorSpace programs, tools, or materials you must have your CreatorSpace card (which is free and available to adults and patrons 10+), but you do not need to have a card to be part of this program.
Do you have questions or need fiber arts materials? Looking to learn to crochet? Email Jak at jmi...@hopkintonma.gov.
Planning for Medicare
Thursday, April 9 | 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Join Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts for this informational seminar about planning for Medicare.
If you’re getting close to Medicare eligibility, this presentation is for you. Whether you are planning to retire or will continue to work, it’s important to know your Medicare options. Did you know that missing your Medicare enrollment deadlines could cost you money? We know that Medicare can be confusing, so we designed this seminar to help you be confident you’re making the right health coverage decisions.
Please note that this event is strictly informational. Blue Cross Blue Shield will not solicit contact information or go over product information. The Library will not share patron information with Blue Cross Blue Shield.
If you would like to attend virtually via Google Meet, registration is required. If you would like to attend in person, registration is requested, but not required.
Old School Roleplaying Game Group (Adult Group)
Sunday, April 12 and 26 | 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Keith will be running a D&D campaign using old-school rules (Holmes Basic D&D, for those who want to know) and adventure modules ("In Search of the Unknown", "Keep on the Borderlands", etc.). If you are new to Dungeons & Dragons, then this will be an easy introduction to the game! If you are a veteran player, then this will be a fun way to learn about its history. If you just want to hang out with some cool people who enjoy tabletop fantasy gaming, then this is your chance.
New members will be accepted mid-campaign! Drop by!
CreatorSpace Workshop: Learn to Sew: Quilted Cotton Coaster
Sunday, April 12 | 1:00 - 2:30 PM
Tuesday, April 28 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Learn the basics of quilting! It's so easy, you'll make your own quilted coaster in under an hour! Though quilting is an art that can be immensely detailed, the basics are really easy to pick up. We will be using basic sewing machines. Come try it out and see why it has been a quintessential American art for generations!
This program is for ages 16 to adult. This program earns you Sewing Machine Certification so that you can attend more advanced sewing classes.
A signed CreatorSpace waiver is required to access this event. If the attendee is between the ages of 16 and 17, a parent/guardian must sign this waiver before the event starts.
This program is part of our celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary.
This event is a repeat of a previous session. If you attended a previous session, please do not register for this session so that we can fit as many new crafters as possible!
VIRTUAL - On Writing Action-Packed and Suspenseful Spycraft with Brad Taylor
Tuesday, April 14 | 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Join us in conversation with acclaimed author Brad Taylor on his latest work, Shadow Strike, book 20 (yes, you read that right!) of the bestselling Pike Logan series.
After its proxies are devastated and its offensive capability pummeled in the latest war in the middle east, a rogue group of Iranian regime officials create a brazen plot to strike back at their hated enemies once and for all. They envision a series of operational dominos culminating in a devastating attack, and the first step is the assassination of the Israeli prime minister. And there’s only one assassin with the skills to pull it off: Abdul Rahman, known in the shadows as the Ghost.
When a routine prison transfer is ambushed, the Ghost escapes and is given the assignment. The only Operator who can hunt him down is the man who stopped him before: Pike Logan.
Pike and his team soon learn that the mission involves something bigger than just the escape of his old enemy. Working with Mossad agents, the pursuit leads the Taskforce to Argentina. They work to unravel the scope of the attack, and the chase leads them through the tempestuous waterfalls of Iguazu and the Triple Frontier, to the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, and the tiny village of Ushuaia at the “End of the World”.
As the team races against the clock, Pike learns the stakes are much greater than a single life – the consequences extend into the heartland of America itself. The Ghost may hold the key to an escalation that will upend the worldwide balance of power, and if Pike fails, the fallout won’t just be personal – it’ll be global.
Click here to register and learn why the Pike Logan series has everyone buzzing!
About the Author: Brad Taylor is the author of the New York Times bestselling Pike Logan series. He served for more than twenty years in the U.S. Army, including eight years in 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, commonly known as Delta Force. He retired as a Special Forces lieutenant colonel and now lives in Charleston, South Carolina.
250th: CreatorSpace Workshop: Painted Barn Quilt
Tuesday, April 21 | 6:00 - 7:00 PM
"Barn Quilts" are geometric designs in the style of traditional quilts that are painted on barns, and have a long and storied history in New England. Come paint your own 12" barn quilt, using a traditional design or by making your own!
This program is for ages 14 to adult.
A signed CreatorSpace waiver is required for access to most CreatorSpace events. This event does not require a signed waiver.
We encourage all CreatorSpace users to sign a waiver (or have a parent/guardian sign if age 10-17). Once signed, the waiver confers full access to all events that the user is eligible for.
This program is part of our celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary.
National Treasures Book Club
Tuesday, April 28 | 6:15 - 7:15 PM
Introducing the National Treasures book discussion group, where we’ll read classic American literature through the ages. Revisit those high school cornerstones to see if they’re any different than you remember. Or, if you haven’t read them before, see what all the fuss is about!
This month’s book is Player Piano, by Kurt Vonnegut. Books will be available for pickup at the Circulation Desk. We'll meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Registration is optional!
CreatorSpace Workshop: Zines - Make and Trade!
Thursday, April 30 | 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Have you ever heard of Zines?
Zines are self-published works that have provided access to information and an opportunity to build community for decades. Join Ray (reference and technology librarian) for an evening where we make and share our own zines! Materials will be provided, get up to three copies of your zine made to keep or trade.
For Ages 15 and up.
A signed CreatorSpace waiver is required for access to most CreatorSpace events. This event does not require a signed waiver.
We encourage all CreatorSpace users to sign a waiver (or have a parent/guardian sign if age 10-17). Once signed, the waiver confers full access to all events that the user is eligible for.
Teen and Preteen Programs
YA Dungeons & Dragons Campaign (Grades 5-12)
Wednesday, April 1, 15, and 29 | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Join dungeon master Leann for a Spring session of D&D. New players welcome! Registration is required. Please e-mail Jess at jdy...@hopkintonma.gov with any questions.
Drop-In CreatorSpace Hours: For Teens!
Monday, April 6, 13, and 27 | 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Tuesday, April 7, 14, and 21 | 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Join us for Drop-In Craft Hours in the CreatorSpace! CreatorSpace users must pre-register at the Reference Desk. Users must be over the age of 10. Users ages 10 to 17 require a parent's or legal guardian's signature before CreatorSpace use. The maximum capacity of the room is 10 users at one time.
Monday, 3:00 - 5:00 PM: Our CreatorSpace staffer today is Jess, our Teen Librarian! Her expertise is in general crafts.
Tuesday, 3:00 - 5:00 PM: Our CreatorSpace staffer is Matt; his expertise is in model making and general crafting.
Find out more about our CreatorSpace here!
CreatorSpace users must pre-register at the Reference Desk. Users must be over the age of 10. Users aged 10 to 17 require a parent's or legal guardian's signature before CreatorSpace use. The maximum capacity of the room is 10 users at one time.
Magic: The Gathering Club
Tuesday, April 7 and 28 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Come play Magic: the Gathering on select Tuesday nights. Learn to play, build decks, trade cards, and play against friends! Hosted by Pete from Pete's Nerd Emporium. For children and teens ages 9 and up. New players must register.
YA Animanga Club
Wednesday, April 8 | 6:00 - 7:45 PM
Anime and Manga Fans: Meet in the YA room to discuss manga, watch anime, draw characters, and eat fun snacks! Open to teens and pre-teens in 5th Grade and up. Please e-mail Jess at jdy...@hopkintonma.gov with any questions.
Please Note: In this program we may watch and/or discuss material that is rated TV-14 or unrated.
National Quilt Project: Share your story with a painted quilt square
Thursday, April 9 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Participate in the National Quilt Project, an initiative that seeks to "stitch America together again." Decorate a quilt square representing your part in the rich mosaic of our country, and leave it with us to be exhibited locally and nationally. Learn more about the Project at the National Quilt Project's website.
This session, we will use fabric paint to decorate a quilt square. This program is for ages 10 to 18.
This event does NOT require registration, but room capacity is limited to 10 people at a time. This event is first come first served, and new folks will be admitted as earlier arrivals finish their project and leave.
A signed CreatorSpace waiver is required for access to most CreatorSpace events. This event does not require a signed waiver. We encourage all CreatorSpace users to sign a waiver (or have a parent/guardian sign if age 10-17). Once signed, the waiver confers full access to all events that the user is eligible for.
YA Game Night
Wednesday, April 22 | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
We will have board games, card games, puzzles, and Nintendo Switch2 set up in the YA Room. Open to anyone in grades 5 through 12. Snacks provided!
Paint with Julie (ages 13-18)
Thursday, April 23 | 4:30 - 6:00 PM
April Break painting class with Julie Harrold for ages 13 through 18. Registration opens two weeks before the event.
YA Wooden Model Kit Workshop
Tuesday, April 28 | 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Looking for a fun after-school hobby that encourages creativity while working with your hands? Sign up for our Wooden Model Kit Workshop!
In this program, participants will learn how to safely use basic hobby tools before selecting and constructing a wooden model kit alongside a few friends. After completing their kits, participants will be able to customize their wooden model using the Creatorspace’s resources, and take their work home!
This program is intended for young adult patrons ages 12 to 17. Because this workshop will involve using sharp tools, the age requirement will be strictly enforced. Interested participants must return a completed waiver form, signed by a parent or guardian in front of library staff. We strongly encourage interested participants to complete this step ahead of time!
Registration is required; supplies are limited. Participants will not be allowed into the Creatorspace without a completed waiver form, signed by a parent or guardian in front of library staff.
Children's Programs
Registration required for many programs through our website calendar.
Preschool Storytellers
Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, and 29 | 10:00 - 10:45 AM
Preschool Storytellers includes a short storytime followed by play-based activities. We will start with a few songs and then Ms. Carly will read a picture book with children, inviting them to respond to the story and pictures. After this shared reading children will continue storytelling through crafts, sensory activities, dramatic play, and more.
This program supports the five early literacy practices and is best for children ages 3 to 6. Registration is required and opens one week before the program.
Kids Creative Writing Club
Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, and 29 | 4:15 - 5:00 PM
At Kids Creative Writing Club, children will have fun exploring the world of writing, imagination, and storytelling with their friends. Each meeting will include creative activities like interactive games, poetry prompts, group storytelling, and more. This program is for children in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. Click here to register!
Read to a Therapy Dog
Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 | 7:00 - 7:45 PM
Drop by the Children's Room to practice reading aloud to Hula, a local therapy dog!
Parent-Child Playgroup
Thursday, April 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 | 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Join us for Parent-Child Playgroup, cohosted with the Hopkinton YMCA (Project ABC). This event will include free play as well as a circle time with stories, songs, and rhymes! Recommended for children ages 0 to 5, with a caregiver. Registration is required, and opens one week before the event.
Project ABC is a Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) grant program funded by the Department of Early Education and Care (ECC) and managed by the MetroWest YMCA. Project ABC currently serves Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, and Natick. Interested in learning more about your child's development? Take this Ages and Stages Questionnaire.
Lego and Pokemon Club (ages 5+)
Thursday, April 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 | 4:00 - 4:45 PM
Children can play and create at Lego and Pokémon Club! Build a creation out of Legos or Duplo blocks. Creations will be displayed in the children's department for a few days. Do you play Pokémon? Looking for someone to play with, trade cards, and chat about all that is Pokémon? This club is for you! Bring your Pokémon cards if you have some. If you do not have cards, we will have a small amount for in-library use. This is a drop-in style club.
Teen-Led: Unplugged Programming with Rishi
Thursday, April 2, 9, 23, and 30 | 5:15 - 6:15 PM
This series is led by local high school student Rishi as part of the Hopkinton Public Library's Teen-Led Programs initiative. Rishi's goal is to make technical literacy fun, interactive, and accessible to the entire community. In this structured workshop, kids in grades 2 through 4 will learn the foundations of coding skills through board games.
Children under the age of 9 must be accompanied at all times by a responsible person age 12 or older while visiting the library. Click here to register!
Babytime (ages 0 to 18 months)
Friday, April 3, 17, and 24 | 9:15 - 10:00 AM | Registration Required
This baby lapsit storytime encourages early literacy and caregiver-child interactions with lively songs and rhymes, gentle tickles, bounces, and body-awareness. This storytime will begin with play/social time for babies and their caregivers! Registration opens one week before the event.
Little Explorers (recommended ages 2 to 5)
Friday, April 3, 17, and 24 | 10:30 - 11:15 AM | Registration Required
Join us for hands-on learning for curious little kids. Each week children will explore a new concept through a variety of fun activities and have a chance to discover and experiment at their own pace. Registration opens one week before the event.
Drop-in Family Activities
Saturday, April 4, 11, and 25 | 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Drop by the Children's Department programming room for some family activities (i.e. chess, board games, blocks, coloring, etc).
Family Storytime
Saturday, April 4 | 10:00 - 10:30 AM
Join Ms. Carly for stories, movement songs, fingerplays, puppets, more! This lively, interactive storytime encourages early literacy and caregiver-child interactions.
Recommended for ages 0 to 5. Registration required.
Baby and Toddler Storytime (ages 0 to 3)
Monday, April 6, 13, and 27 | 10:00 - 10:45 AM | Registration Required
Babies and toddlers are invited to a storytime full of songs, stories, rhymes, movements, bubbles, and more! This storytime always begins with play/social time for children and their caregivers. Recommended for babies and toddlers ages 0 to 3. Registration opens one week before the event.
Pajama Storytime
Thursday, April 16 | 6:00 - 6:30 PM
Join Ms. Carly for a special evening storytime. We’ll sing songs to shake the end of day sillies out and read stories to wind down for bedtime. Pajamas and stuffed animals are welcome!
Chess Club
Tuesday, April 21 | 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Chess Club for ages 6 and up. High school volunteers will be available to guide and instruct. New players are always welcome! Click here to register!
Baby & Toddler Storytime @ Night
Tuesday, April 21 | 5:30 - 6:15 PM
Join us for our usual Baby & Toddler Storytime, but after work! Sure to delight, this storytime is full of songs, stories, wiggles, and rhymes. The program will start with play//social time and end with bubbles… and a quick bedtime!
Recommended for ages 0 to 3. Registration opens one week before the event.
Music and Movement
Wednesday, April 22 | 10:30 - 11:15 AM
Recommended for ages 0 to 5. Come sing and groove each month with a different children’s performer. Let's welcome Little Beats!
Our monthly Music & Movement program is generously funded by the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation.
Paint with Julie (ages 7-12)
Thursday, April 23 | 2:30 - 4:00 PM
April Break painting class with Julie Harrold for ages 7 to 12. Registration opens two weeks before the event.
Recommended for ages 0 to 5. Registration opens one week before the event.
VIRTUAL - On Writing Beloved Characters and Powerful Portrayals of Resilience with Jason Reynolds
Thursday, April 30 | 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Join us in conversation with bestselling author Jason Reynolds as we discuss his latest work, Coach, the fifth–and last–entry in the highly popular Track series. Following the immersive stories of Ghost, Lu, Patina, and Sunny, it’s finally time for Coach to shine in his own book as we discover: Who was Coach before he became an inspiring leader?
Before Coach was the man who gave caring yet firm-handed guidance to Ghost, Lu, Patina, and Sunny on the Defenders track team, he was little Otie Brody, who was obsessed with Mr. 9.99 (a.k.a. Carl Lewis) and Marty McFly from Back to the Future. Like Mr. 9.99 – and his own dad – Otie is a sprinter. Sprint free or die is practically his motto.
Then his dad, who is always away on business trips, comes home with a pair of Jordans. JORDANS. Fine as fine can be. Otie puts them on and feels like he can leap to the moon… maybe even leap like Mr. 9.99 when he won the Olympic gold medal in the long jump. But one morning he wakes up to find his brand-new secret weapon kicks are missing – right off his feet! And Otie just might have a fuzzy memory of his dad easing them off as Otie was sleeping, but that can’t be right, can it?
Unless all the reasons for his dad’s “gone’s” are very different from what he’s been told… Because now, not only are the Jordans missing, but so is his father.
About the Author: Jason Reynolds is an award-winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author. Jason’s many books include Miles Morales: Spider Man, the Track series (Ghost, Patina, Sunny, and Lu), Long Way Down, which received a Newbery Honor, a Printz Honor, and a Coretta Scott King Honor, and Look Both Ways, which was a National Book Award Finalist. Recently named the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Jason has appeared on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and CBS This Morning. He is on faculty at Lesley University, for the Writing for Young People MFA Program and lives in Washington, DC. You can find his ramblings at JasonWritesBooks.com.
Missed the live session? Have questions about these virtual talks? Visit the Virtual Author Talks website for recordings of past talks and an FAQ guide to the events.
Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Diversity Book Club
We have a passive "book club" for all ages. Patrons can check out a book related to a theme and then engage in an at-home discussion activity. This month’s theme is “Remixing the Classics”. Patrons can stop by the library lobby anytime during the month to check out a themed title for adults, young adults and children.
National Treasures Book Club
Tuesday, April 28 | 6:15 - 7:15 PM
Introducing the National Treasures book discussion group, where we’ll read classic American literature through the ages. Revisit those high school cornerstones to see if they’re any different than you remember. Or, if you haven’t read them before, see what all the fuss is about!
This month’s book is Player Piano, by Kurt Vonnegut. Books will be available for pickup at the Circulation Desk. We'll meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Registration is optional!
On April 5th, the Library will be closed in observance of Easter Sunday.
On April 10th, the Library will open at 1:00 PM due to Staff Professional Development.
From April 18th through April 20th, the Library will be closed in observance of Patriots’ Day.
On April 21st, the Board of Library Trustees will be meeting in the Ellsworth Room.
Learn more about the Friends of the Hopkinton Library. Show your support by becoming a member. Becoming a member is a great way to show your support for your local library, even if you don’t have time to get involved. You can join or renew your membership here.
The Hopkinton Public Library Foundation, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission of supporting Hopkinton Public Library by funding resources, technology, educational and special projects, and long term improvements. Their fundraising efforts seek to bridge the gap between the community’s aspirations for its Library and the usual or customary funding available from municipal budgets. Working in partnership with the Library, as well as the supporting organizations of the Trustees and Friends of the Library, the Foundation encourages continued and increased support of the Hopkinton Public Library as a valuable community resource. Meet the team and find out ways to support the library here.
