Hopkinton Public Library Newsletter - September 2025
Hopkinton Library Newsletter
From The Director's Desk
One Book, Endless Possibilities. Una tarjeta, infinitas posibilidades. カード一枚、無限の可能性 Une carte, un monde de possibilités. एक कार्ड, अनंत संभावनाएं Um cartão, possibilidades infinitas. بطاقة واحدة، إمكانيات لا حصر لها. 一张卡，无限可能. ஒரு அட்டை, одна карта, много возможностей
முடிவற்ற சாத்தியக்கூறுகள்.
September is Library Card Sign-Up Month. During the month of September, new cardholders (or those who have electronic cards but come in to get a physical card) will be entered into a drawing to win a Kindle Paperwhite and Kindle Paperwhite cover.
A library card doesn’t just give you access to books, newspapers and magazines! Libraries are more than just book repositories, they are centers of learning, community, and discovery. We offer storytelling sessions, cultural events, author talks, workshops, crafting, and more. Your library card gives you instant access to ebooks, movies, and music through Libby, Hoopla, and Kanopy apps. You can spend the day at a museum, the zoo, or one of the many historic parks and homes in Massachusetts with our museum passes and Trustee Reservation parking pass. Get access to free WiFi, public computers, fax and scanning services, headphones, and chargers. Printer and copier services are also free. Need space? The Hopkinton Public Library offers a large event room, a small meeting room, and three small study rooms that are available to the public. Book online or by phone! Use your card to get access to online resources ranging from genealogy, to languages and art through Gale Databases, CreativeBug, HeritageQuest Online and more! Your card also lets you borrow a guitar, puzzles, board games, knitting looms, videogame consoles, an offroad wheelchair, and so much more from our Library of Things.
Already have a Library Card? Bring it with you! Your library card is your key to prompt, convenient services! Bringing your library card helps you keep your data private and secure by ensuring accurate, silent retrieval of your account information by library staff.
Happy Discovery!
Nanci M. Hill, Library Director
September’s Guest Librarian:
Evan Bishop, Superintendent of Schools
Evan Bishop, Superintendent of Schools
Superintendent of Schools, Evan Bishop says that he is honored to be this month’s Guest Librarian at the Hopkinton Public Library. Evan has worked in the Hopkinton Public Schools for 20 years, starting as a school counselor at Hopkinton High School before becoming principal and now serving as superintendent. He grew up in Burlington, Massachusetts and attended Fairfield University. He now lives in Southborough with his wife, Lindsay, and their 13-year old twin daughters, Avery and Reese.
Throughout his career, Evan has been driven by a deep belief in the power of public education to inspire curiosity, foster connection, and open doors for all students. He believes libraries are the heart of a community, places where stories spark imagination, ideas take shape, and people of all ages come together. His efforts in the district reflect this same vision: ensuring that every learner feels seen, supported, and encouraged to explore new possibilities.
Outside of work, Evan loves spending time with his family, playing with their English bulldog, Pearl, and attempting to stay in shape. He is excited to share some of his favorite titles with us and hopes they bring you as much enjoyment as they have brought him and his family.
Fiction
Garmus, Bonnie. Lessons in Chemistry (witty, uplifting historical fiction with strong characters)
Osman, Richard. The Thursday Murder Club (cozy, clever mystery series starter)
Patchett, Ann. Tom Lake (family relationships, nostalgia, summer setting)
Towles, Amor. The Lincoln Highway (rich storytelling, multiple perspectives)
Van Pelt, Shelby. Remarkably Bright Creatures (heartwarming, unique perspective)
Nonfiction
Brown, Daniel James. The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
Clear, James. Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
Gawande, Atul. Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End
Shetterly, Margot Lee. Hidden Figures: the American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
Westover, Tara. Educated
Adventure Pass of the Month - Plimoth Patuxet
Plimoth Patuxet Museums offers a living history that tells the story of the English colonists who became known as “Pilgrims” and the Native Americans with whom they interacted. A big draw is the re-creation of the original settlement, populated with interpreters in period dress with whom one may interact that are based on actual historical figures. Native People from various nations in historically accurate dress provide information about the Wampanoag—the first tribe the Pilgrims encountered—at a home site based on how the group would have lived in the 17th century. In addition to the two settlements, the museum includes a visitor center, the Craft Center, barns that contain rare and heritage animal breeds, and a grist mill that manufactures cornmeal. Plimoth Patuxet Museums is also responsible for the replica of the Mayflower, the ship that brought the Pilgrims to the New World. Place your hold requests for this pass by visiting our Adventure Pass page.
Our Adventure Passes are generously funded by The Friends of Hopkinton Public Library.
Library "Thing" of the Month - Circular Looms
The Hopkinton Public Library's Circular Looms are ideal for producing fabric for fiber-craft projects including hats, bags, socks, and other garments. They can also be used as flat looms, ideal for projects such as scarves, placemats, and towels. The Hopkinton Public Library's Circular Looms come in a variety of sizes, ranging in diameter from 3.5 inches to 11 inches.
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
Quarterly Library Volunteer Interest Orientation
Saturday, September 6 | 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Giving back to your community can be rewarding, help you complete mandatory volunteer hours, and round out college applications or resume building. Adults and teens 14 years of age and older may join us in learning about the library’s volunteer needs. If you are 18 years of age or older, you must bring an ID (driver’s license, non-driver ID, or passport) and fill out a CORI form (available at the library) in order to volunteer at the library. No need to sign up, just join us at our fall volunteer session. See calendar for more details. This is your opportunity for this quarter to learn about volunteering with the library. Registration before the event is not required.
Puzzle Race!
Sunday, September 7 | 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Puzzlers, prepare! We will be hosting a puzzle race! Teams will compete to complete a 500-piece puzzle first! All teams will complete the same puzzle. This program is appropriate for ages 9 and up. Maximum team size is 6.
Registration is required. Please complete only one registration form per team. Your confirmation email will say you've registered one participant no matter how many you have on your team. Don't panic - this is expected! If you are attending solo and would like to be placed on a team with other solos, please contact us (see below) and we'll try to make it happen!
If you have any questions, please email Adult Services Librarian Dan Boudreau - dbou...@hopkintonma.gov.
Narcan Training and Community Harm Reduction with the Hopkinton Health Department
Tuesday, September 9 | 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.
Frayed Knot Fiber Arts Circle
Wednesday, September 10 | 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 PM to 7:30 PM.
Do you have questions or need fiber arts materials? Looking to learn to crochet? Email Jak at jmi...@hopkintonma.gov. Registration for this event opens two weeks before the event.
3rd Annual Ash Hop Porchfest
Saturday, September 13 | 1:00 - 5:00 PM
The Hopkinton Public Library has once again signed up to lend our "Porch" (the old entrance area) to a musician/ band. Come and enjoy some great music for a while then stroll along to see other bands in the area. See below for more information from the organizers:
Porchfest is more than music—it’s community!
Porchfest began in Ithaca, New York, in 2007 with a modest idea and a big heart: let musicians perform on porches and invite neighbors to wander, listen, and connect. Nearly two decades later, it has become a grassroots tradition across the country, transforming quiet streets into open-air festivals where community, creativity, and sidewalk dancing reign.
The concept is simple:
🏡 Homeowners volunteer their porches
🎶 Musicians sign up for time slots
🚶 Attendees stroll from house to house
There are no big stages, ticket lines, or headliners; just neighborhoods sharing space and sound. That same spirit is coming alive here in Ashland and Hopkinton on September 13. For more information, click here to see the organizer's website.
Adult Programs
Planning for Medicare
Thursday, September 4 | 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Join Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts for this informational seminar about planning for Medicare. This program will be offered in hybrid format. To attend virtually, registration is required; registration opens two weeks before the event.
If you’re getting close to Medicare eligibility, this seminar 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? Medicare can be confusing, so this seminar was designed to help you be confident you’re making the right health coverage decisions.
Topics include:
Medicare and Medicare Parts A and B
Medicare enrollment timeline
Medigap plans that supplement
Medicare coverage
Medicare Advantage plans, such as HMOs and PPOs
Medicare Part D prescription drug plans
Plans and programs available to early retirees, such as COBRA
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.
Old School Roleplaying Game Group (Adult Group)
Sunday, September 7 and 21 | 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. And 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!
Red Cross Blood Drive
Tuesday, September 9 | 1:00 - 6:00 PM
Register on the Red Cross website at https://rcblood.org/3AmuYsP
VIRTUAL: Argue Less and Talk More with Communication Expert Jefferson Fisher
Wednesday, September 10 | 2:00 - 3:30 PM
Join us (and be ready to take notes) for an afternoon virtual conversation with communication expert Jefferson Fisher, as we chat about his book, The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More.
About the Book: No matter who you’re talking to, The Next Conversation gives you immediately actionable strategies and phrases that will forever change how you communicate. Jefferson Fisher, trial lawyer and one of the leading voices on real-world communication, offers a tried-and-true framework that will show you how to transform your life and your relationships by improving your next conversation.
Whether it’s handling a heated conversation, dealing with a difficult personality, or standing your ground with confidence, his down-to-earth teachings have helped countless people navigate life’s toughest situations. Now for the first time, in his book The Next Conversation, Fisher has distilled his three-part communication system (Say it with control, Say it with confidence, Say it to connect) that can easily be applied to any situation.
The Next Conversation gives you practical phrases that will lead to powerful results, from breaking down defensiveness in a hard talk with a family member to finding your own assertive voice at the boardroom conference table. Your every word matters, and by controlling how you communicate every day, you will create waves of positive impact that will resonate throughout your relationships to last a lifetime.
Everything you want to say, and how you want to say it, can be found in The Next Conversation, the definitive book on making your next conversation the one that changes everything. Click here to register!
About the Author: Jefferson Fisher is a board-certified Texas trial lawyer and founder of Fisher Firm. With his extensive experience as a trial lawyer, Jefferson understands the art of persuading and communicating effectively in high-conflict situations. He is one of the most sought-after names in functional thinking for modern-day communication. Known for his practical videos and authentic presence, Jefferson has amassed over 9 million social media followers-making him the most followed litigation attorney in the world in less than a year, all from inside his vehicle. Jefferson's followers include high-profile names such as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Jesse Williams, Dr. Andrew Huberman, Sarah Silverman, Lewis Howes, and many more. Jefferson is on a mission to be a messenger of positivity in the world and help people learn to talk to each other again - one conversation at a time.
Dhamma Yogi Yoga Classes
Sunday, September 14, 21, and 28 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM
The traditional style of beginner and intermediate yoga will include Asanas (postures), Pranayama (breathing techniques), Dhyana (meditation) and Yoga Nidra (relaxation techniques). The class is open to all ages 18 and above. No prior yoga experience is needed. Classes will focus on building strength in the core, balance in the body, and increasing flexibility and range of motion while incorporating breath awareness and mindfulness techniques. Bring a yoga/exercise mat and water. Be ready to unwind!
VIRTUAL: Our Failed Attempts to Make English Eezier to Spell with Author Gabe Henry
Wednesday, September 17 | 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Have you ever wondered why the English spelling of words is sometimes… well… just weird? Come on a surprisingly hilarious journey with us and author Gabe Henry through the history of the English language, while we discuss troublemakers like Mark Twain who broke all the rules.
Anyone who has the misfortune to write in English will, every now and then, struggle with its spelling. In our erratic system, choir and liar rhyme, daughter and laughter don’t, and somehow ‘you’ and ‘ewe’ can’t agree on a single letter. So why do we still use it? If our spelling is so inconsistent, why haven’t we tried to fix it?
In the comic annals of linguistic history, legions of rebel wordsmiths have died on the hill of spelling reform, risking their reputations to simplify English spelling. This book is about them: Mark Twain, Eliza Burnz, Noah Webster, Upton Sinclair, Emma Dearborn, Theodore Roosevelt, Benjamin Franklin, and the countless other “simplified spellers” who, for a time in their lives, became fanatic about writing kof instead of cough, tung for tongue, and fyzics for physics (and tried futilely to get everyone around them to do it too).
In Enough is Enuf, Gabe Henry humorously traces the “simplified spelling movement” from medieval England to Revolutionary America, from the birth of standup comedy to contemporary pop music, and explores its lasting influence in words like color (without a U), plow (without -ugh), and the iconic ’90s ballad “Nothing Compares 2 U.” Finally, Henry brings us to the digital age, where the swift pace of online exchanges now pushes us all 2ward simplification.
Register now for this informative and entertaining conversation to find out why Gabe Henry thinks UR not a bad speller, the English language is. Click here to register!
About the Author: Gabe Henry is the author of three books including the poetry anthology Eating Salad Drunk, a humor collaboration with Jerry Seinfeld, Bob Odenkirk, Mike Birbiglia, Margaret Cho, and other titans of comedy. Eating Salad Drunk was featured in The New Yorker in February 2022 (“A Smattering of Haiku for the Burnout Age”) and ranked one of Vulture’s Best Comedy Books of 2022. Henry’s work has been published in TIME, New York Magazine, The New Yorker, the Weekly Humorist, US News & World Report, and more. He has spent more than a decade exploring the strange and forgotten history of simplified spelling, which, by his own admission, has only made him a worse speller. He lives and works in New York. Learn more at www.gabehenry.com.
Author Talk - Mike Leary
Thursday, September 18 | 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Join us as local author Mike Leary reads from his newly released novella, Smoking Cigarettes.
About the Book: After an unexpected inheritance from an estranged uncle, our narrator retreats to a remote cabin in the woods of Enfield, New Hampshire. Seeking solitude and clarity, he instead finds unease—encountering wary locals, a disembodied voice on a long-dead phone line, and a decades-old carton of Kent Light 100s that stares back like a ghost of memory.
Blurring the lines between fiction and memoir, this haunting, intimate novella explores the weight of trauma, the elusive nature of creativity, and the quiet ways we make sense of ourselves and the world around us. Click here to register!
About the Author: Mike Leary is a fiction writer whose work blends grit, nostalgia, and dry humor. His stories explore the spaces between what’s said and what’s felt—where memory lingers and meaning drifts. He lives with his wife and two sons, somewhere between a half-finished sentence and an open browser tab.
Ted Reinstein: Adventures Through the Heart and Soul of New England
Tuesday, September 30 | 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Journalist and author Ted Reinstein has reported all around New England for 25 years, telling the colorful stories of this historic yet ever-changing corner of America. Now, he condenses his countless travels into a single, unique labor of love: a journey through the heart and soul of New England, meeting the most memorable people—and their unlikely stories—all along the way. People whose struggles, toughness, triumphs, and humor not only define the very essence of New England, but represent the timeless best of America as well. In all six states, in their own words, the stories unfold. From a stalwart surfer on New Hampshire’s tiny seacoast, to Maine’s “Slim” Andrews and his one-man museum, to the Vermonter who builds extraordinary havens in the trees for those without hope of reaching them. Meet a couple in the Berkshire Hills determined to save a place they were told doesn’t exist, and a cartoonist in Rhode Island who found an ingenious way for an entire city to say goodnight to those who need to hear it most. It's a legendary part of America that’s often caricatured, but rarely caught with such real-life candor and intimacy. Indeed, the Old Mainer in the tired-old joke was wrong: you can get there from here. And along the way, see New England in a whole new light, through the stories of some everyday Americans you’ll never forget.
Ted Reinstein is a longtime broadcast-journalist and author. A reporter based in Boston and a full-time correspondent for the city’s celebrated nightly news magazine, “Chronicle,” he has covered sports, politics and especially human interest stories all over Boston and across New England. His work as a journalist has earned several Emmy Awards as well as an Alfred I. DuPont-Columbia University National Broadcast Journalism Award. He sits on the WCVB editorial Board, and is the author of three books about New England, all published by Globe Pequot. His first book, New England Notebook: One Reporter, Six States, Uncommon Stories was selected in 2013 as a “Best Pick” by National Geographic Traveler. His most recent book is Before Brooklyn: The Unsung Heroes Who Helped Break Baseball’s Color Barrier (Lyons Press/2021). He also keeps up an extensive speaking schedule. More on Ted, his books and full biography on his website.
Teen and Preteen Programs
YA Animanga Club
Wednesday, September 10 and 24 | 6:00 - 7:45 PM
Anime and Manga Fans: Meet in the Betty Strong room to discuss manga, watch Crunchyroll, 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.
Children's Programs
Registration required for many programs through our website calendar.
Babytime (ages 0-18 months)
Friday, September 5, 12, 19, and 26 | 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 2-5)
Friday, September 5, 12, 19, and 26 | 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, September 6, 13, 20, and 27 | 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).
Kids Crafternoon
Monday, September 8, 15, 22, and 29 | 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Come try out a different craft, activity, or art style each Monday! Recommended for ages 6 and up. Supplies are limited.
Baby and Toddler Storytime (ages 0-3)
Tuesday, September 9, 16, 23, and 30 | 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.
Preschool Storytellers
Wednesday, September 10 and 24 | 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, September 10, 17, and 24 | 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.
Parent-Child Playgroup
Thursday, September 11, 18, 25 | 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 0-5, 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, September 11, 18, and 25 | 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.
Pajama Storytime
Thursday, September 11 | 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! Recommended for ages 0-5. Registration opens one week before the event.
Monthly Music and Movement
Wednesday, September 17 | 10:30 - 11:15 AM
Join us for a children's concert (recommended for children ages 0 to 5) with Evan Hale! These monthly concerts are generously sponsored by the Hopkinton Public Library Foundation.
Family Storytime
Saturday, September 27 | 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.
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 "Learning Diversity: How People Learn Differently". Patrons can stop by the library lobby anytime during the month to check out a themed title for adults, young adults and children.
On September 5th, the Study Rooms will be closed due to scheduled maintenance.
On September 6th, the library will be hosting its Quarterly Library Volunteer Interest Orientation.
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.