The Dover Public Library is pleased to announce the 24th Annual Dover Public Library Poetry contest for Dover area residents ages 5 and up. Prizes will be awarded in seven different categories: Grades K-2, 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7 & 8, 9 & 10, 11 &12, and adults ages 18 & older. Poems will be judged on originality, style, and creativity. This year's contest will run from March 18 to April 15. Students may pick up contest rules & information at the Dover Public Library or on our website at https://www.dover.nh.gov/government/city-operations/library/events/poetry-contest/. For more information about the contest please contact Emily Ainaire at e.ainaire@dover.nh.gov or (603) 516-6082.

Love the idea of Audible but wish it were free? It is — with Libby! This easy-to-use app lets you borrow thousands of audiobooks and ebooks straight to your phone, tablet, or laptop — all with your Dover resident library card.

Drop by one of our casual help sessions with Nick and Rachel, who’ll walk you through getting Libby set up on your device. No registration, no stress — just bring your device and your library card and we’ll handle the rest. Sessions will be held in McConnell Center Room 306 and the McConnell Center Cafeteria (please check our event calendar for drop-in locations) on April 2, 7, & 14 at 6pm, April 4 at 2pm, and April 8 at 10am.

If you don't have a library card yet but you live in Dover, just stop by a little early to sign up for a card. You'll need a photo ID and proof of Dover residency to sign up.

On Thursday, April 2 at 7pm on Zoom, join us for a discussion presenting a clear and compassionate overview of cremation with Robert Chase and Andrew Gourdeau. The discussion will cover the full range of options (direct cremation, services before cremation, and cremation followed by a memorial service), what families need to have ready before a death occurs, and the benefits of pre-planning, how it works, and practical next steps such as scattering, burial, keepsakes, and eco-friendly alternatives, all designed to help attendees make informed, confident decisions for themselves and their loved ones.

Note: Most of the information in this program is general and applicable to all, but there may be some MA specific information, and the presenters may not be able to answer all NH specific questions.

This program is in partnership with the Memorial Hall Library. This program will be recorded, and a link to the recording will be shared with everyone who registers.

On Friday, April 10 at 10:30am on Zoom, welcome to our yearlong series in which “America’s Preeminent Presidential Doodler”, Heather Rogers, shares facts, factoids, and fun illustrations about the presidents of these United States. This month we turn to James Madison: Our teensiest president who tried to conquer Canada. Instead, Canada captured Michigan. Oops. Don't you want to know more? In 2026, journey through Heather's sketchbooks as she shares some of her favorite tidbits, doodles, observations, and resurrection stories about the first 12 presidents. This is a virtual program, and a recording of the presentation will be sent to all registrants.



This program is in partnership with the Ashland Public Library.

On Wednesday, April 15 at 6:30pm in McConnell Center Room 306, join us as we will take on replicating a famous work of art. This month we will be painting Water Lily Pond by Claude Monet. All materials will be provided. This is not a class. We'll start off with a brief history on the piece, as well as an overview of the techniques and the medium. Feel free to bring your own art supplies as well. We will have a reference photo on the overhead projector. Just come paint, draw, relax, and socialize. This program is intended for teens and adults. For any questions, email j.adams@dover.nh.gov.

On Friday, April 17 at 3pm or Saturday, April 18 at 2pm in McConnell Center Room 306, join Rachel for a class on book binding. In this class you'll create your own handbound book and learn the coptic book binding stitch. All supplies will be provided and no previous experience is necessary. This class will involve folding, threading needles, and hand stitching. The class is suitable for adults and teens aged 16 years and up.

Join us on Wednesday, April 22 for a fun-filled night at Garrison City Beerworks in honor of National Library Week! From 5-6pm, library staff members will be there to register new patrons and answer questions about the library's renovation, library services, and upcoming programs.

Think you have what it takes to defeat the Dover Public Library staff at trivia? Test your knowledge from 6-8pm at Garrison City's weekly trivia night! Join us for general knowledge trivia, food, drinks, and fun! All are welcome!

Even though the library moving has begun, we didn't want to miss out on celebrating National Library Week (April 19-25)!

We have partnered with the Durham Public Library (located at 49 Madbury Road in Durham) to show this acclaimed documentary in Durham on Wednesday, April 22 at 6:30pm. The film runs about 90 minutes, and there will be time after to discuss the issues facing libraries, both public and school. Bonus - Durham Public Library has a popcorn machine!

see the website https://thelibrariansfilm.com/ for more information

On Thursday, April 2 at 6pm in McConnell Center Room 306, teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join us for a showing of Wicked for Good (rated PG). Pizza and drinks will be provided, and singing along will be encouraged!

The Knitting Group is meeting Tuesday, April 7 at 9:30am in the McConnell Center Cafeteria. This group is open to anyone who has a love for knitting, crocheting, and related fiber arts. Please bring your works-in-progress and any finished objects you would like to show off to the group.

The Genealogy Group is meeting Tuesday, April 7 at 6:30pm in the McConnell Center Room 306. Whether you’re new to genealogical research or a seasoned pro, this group is a great way to meet others who share the same passion, can give you advice in your research, and listen to your newly-discovered family histories.

On Tuesday, April 14 at 5:30pm in McConnell Center Room 306, join the Friends of the Dover Public Library's monthly meeting. As a member of the group, as an active participant, or as a leader you can support this group which supports our library. Please join us and see how you can make the Dover Public Library an even better place!

On Wednesday, April 15 at 10:30am at the Dover Chamber of Commerce (located at 550 Central Ave.), join Cornerstone VNA for our monthly Caregiver Café to support Dover area family caregivers. Come for a morning of support, education and conversation. No RSVP required.

On Wednesday, April 1 at 11am at Great Bay Services (located at 23 Cataract Ave.), join us for a fun hour of bingo! Small prizes will be awarded.

On Wednesday, April 8 at 11am at Great Bay Services (located at 23 Cataract Ave.), this inclusive program for adults welcomes those with disabilities as we create art and craft projects.

On Wednesday, April 15 at 11am at Great Bay Services (located at 23 Cataract Ave.), this inclusive program for adults welcomes those with disabilities as we build with LEGOs.

On Wednesday, April 22 at 11am at Great Bay Services (located at 23 Cataract Ave.), join us for a lively sing-along to your favorite tunes!