Hi Friends,
It’s hard to believe summer is over, the kids are back in school, and we’re already looking ahead to fall! Don’t worry—we’ve got plenty happening all year long. Rose is always coming up with fun ideas for the kids, and we have a full calendar of adult programs lined up even after the Smithsonian exhibit leaves.
This Tuesday at 6 PM, don’t miss A Fine Agitation: The Fight for Women’s Suffrage. Voting rights are as relevant as ever, and this program will highlight the incredible struggles women faced just over 100 years ago to secure them. Let’s hope history doesn’t need to repeat itself.
Thursday evenings have become so popular that we’re making a few adjustments this week—some programs may be in different spaces to better accommodate everyone. We’re also considering adding another late evening each week, and we’d love your input! Share your thoughts when you visit, or email us at ashbylibrary@cwmars.org or hperry@cwmars.org.
Our Wednesday morning toddler playgroup has been such a hit that we’re planning an additional session in the afternoon for working parents and their little ones (but not Thursdays—those are already too busy!).
Looking ahead: On Tuesday, September 9 at 6 PM, we’ll host another community conversation, this time focusing on schools and what we want as a community. Survey results will be circulated beforehand, and if you haven’t yet added your input, you still can—we’d love to hear from you. Survey Link
Finally, the Homeschool Coop is holding an information meeting this Tuesday. Bring the kids—they’re welcome to join Lego Club or other activities while you stay for the program!
See you at the library!
Tuesday
Lego Club at 4PM
Homeschool Q and A at 4PM
Photography Class 5PM
A Fine Agitation 6PM
✨ You’re Invited: A Fine Agitation – A Musical About the Fight for Women’s Suffrage ✨
More than a century ago, women in the United States secured the right to vote, a hard-fought victory won through courage, persistence, and sacrifice. Today, shockingly, there are voices once again questioning whether that right should remain.
At this pivotal moment, the Ashby Free Public Library invites you to join us in honoring the extraordinary struggle that secured women’s suffrage with a special performance of A Fine Agitation, a musical documentary by Steve Adams, Director of the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts.
Through a vibrant blend of live music, historical images, and compelling storytelling, Adams brings to life the remarkable women and men who fought tirelessly for equality. From parlor meetings and grassroots marches to the halls of Congress, their voices still echo today, reminding us that democracy is only as strong as those who defend it.
This program is designed to inspire audiences of all ages, offering both a moving commemoration of history and a timely reflection on the importance of protecting the rights so many struggled to achieve.
📅 Tuesday, August 26th at 6:00 PM
📍 Ashby Free Public Library
🥂 Refreshments will be served
Come, be stirred, be reminded, and be called to action. The fight for democracy did not end in 1920 its story continues with us.
Wednesday
Right Start Playgroup 10:30
This fantastic group for crawlers and walkers is always welcoming new members. If you are interested, but can’t do Wednesday mornings let me know. We have at least 2 moms with little ones who would like to start an after work group. Email hperry@cwmars.org, ashbylibrary@cwmars,org or text 508 345-7585 with day and start time that would work for you. Rose and I were chatting about the potential for changing the library hours to have an additional open evening.
Trustees Meeting at 6:30
Thursdays
Art 5PM
Our art group has grown so wonderfully that we’re running out of space! To make sure everyone feels comfortable and has room to create, we’ll be dividing the group into two spaces. This small change will help us better accommodate everyone’s needs while working within the limits of our cozy building.
Gaming 6:30
With Kierstyn’s departure, our gaming club is undergoing some changes, and this includes a small move. It will be located in the children’s area going forward, exact location TBA. Rose and James will be facilitating this club going forward. Additionally we are looking at starting some additional gaming clubs that people may be interested in and are looking for volunteers with interest in things like Dungeons and Dragons, Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Anime etc.
The Smithsonian exhibit is in its final two weeks, closing on September 6—don’t miss your chance to experience it! This incredible display brings together 250 years of our nation’s history in one place. Come explore, reflect, and be inspired—and be sure to invite your friends and neighbors to share in this unique opportunity before it’s gone.
If you missed the excellent movie showing last week of Majority Rules about ranked choice voting the short directors cut is available free here .
Next Week
First Friday Movie
