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"Center Conway Lake" By: Wilderness Girls Kayaking

Mid- Month August Newsletter

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Silent Art Auction

Art Auction

Bidding Ends: August 15th

On the main floor above the book islands

Online Art Auction



For the upcoming Color Our World Summer Reading Program, we are pleased to present a silent art auction in support of the Friends of the Conway Public Library.


The bidding will end on August 15th, and winners will be announced the next week. Your participation in this auction will directly contribute to the park project, a cause that benefits us all.

New Author Hour: August 11th at 2:00 PM

The Invention of Charlotte Brontë

Monday, August 11th

2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Registration Required



Don’t miss the opportunity to join us from the comfort of your own home on Monday, August 11th, at 2:00 PM for an insightful discussion with Graham Watson, a celebrated biographer and leading expert on Charlotte Brontë. In this engaging webinar, he will delve into the intricate tapestry of Charlotte's life, her remarkable writings, and her untimely death, while offering fascinating insights drawn from his groundbreaking book, The Invention of Charlotte Brontë: A New Life.

Utilizing previously unseen private letters, Graham Watson unveils a uniquely compelling narrative that sheds light on the dramatic events of Brontë’s final years, a time marked by intense grief, creative fulfillment, and profound tragedy. This exclusive content will not be available anywhere else. He will also expose the astonishing media scandal that erupted after her early death, revealing how her friends and family fiercely battled to control her legacy.


About Author Hour: We extend our gratitude to Ashland Public Library for hosting "Summer Author Hour," a captivating series of virtual author talks featuring some of the most prominent voices in the publishing industry. These enriching webinars are offered free of charge, and the series is proudly promoted by over 50 public libraries across Massachusetts. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this literary journey!

Magnify Voices Expressive Art

August 11th - August 30th

Art Display

Ham Room


The Magnify Voices Expressive Art Display showcases the incredible creativity of our young artists while highlighting the crucial importance of mental health.


This is a fantastic opportunity to experience thought-provoking artwork that encourages conversation and awareness. Let’s come together to support our youth and celebrate their artistic expressions!

Pajama Story Time

Second Thursday of each month

August 14th

6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Ham Room



Get cozy for Pajama Story Time! Join us on the second Thursday of each month. Children are invited to wear their favorite pajamas and bring a stuffed friend or comfort item as we share bedtime stories, sing fun songs, and enjoy simple nighttime-themed activities. It’s the perfect way to end your day with a little magic and a lot of imagination!

Summer Reading Announcements!

Summer Reading Prize Announcement


Thanks to your overwhelming support, we've had a record-breaking turnout this year! However, this success has led to a shortage of private cove tokens and widgets. To ensure everyone still has a chance to win, we're replacing the tokens with extra raffle tickets for our big prize draws.


We've curated a diverse selection of art kits and books, suitable for both children and adults, to accompany each completed art palette. There's something for everyone, so no one is left out!

Last Day to Turn in Reading Sheets

Saturday, August 23rd

Before 1:00 p.m.


Please return your reading challenge sheets for the summer reading challenge by August 23rd by 1:00 p.m. to be entered into the prize raffles. Raffle prizes will be drawn in the last week of August, with winners being contacted throughout the week.

Be Part of the Experience

Knitting with Friends

Wednesdays Mornings

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

In the Ham Room


Join us for a cozy few hours of knitting and conversation every Wednesday, starting August 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Young Adult Corner of the library!


Whether you're an experienced knitter or just starting out, everyone is welcome. This is a great opportunity to relax, create, and make new friends. We can’t wait to see you there!

Book Discussion Group

Monday, August 18th

4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Third Monday of each month

Periodical Room


The book group will meet on the third Monday of each month at 4:00 p.m. in the Periodical Room, except when the original date falls on a holiday. In August, the book pick is "The Women" by Kristin Hannah.


Women can be heroes. "The Women" is the story of one woman who went to war, but it sheds light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifices and commitments to their country have too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, "The Women" is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will define an era.

Friends of the Library Upcoming Programs

Hiking with Kids - Sarah Lamagna

Wednesday, August 27th

6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Ham Room


Join acclaimed New England author Sarah Lamagna for an enlightening and fun-filled presentation about the joys and challenges of hiking with kids. As a dedicated mom who has adventured on over 400 hikes with her child, Sarah has invaluable insights from her experiences—she’s learned what truly works and what doesn’t on the trail. 


In this interactive session, you won't just sit back and listen; you'll have the chance to ask your burning questions and engage directly with Sarah. Plus, she’ll bring an assortment of exciting goodies for both kids and adults.

 

This is the perfect opportunity for families to come together and discover the wonders of hiking. Bring the whole family and prepare for an inspiring experience! Don’t miss out—the Friends of the Library proudly sponsors this delightful program as part of their exciting Program Series. Join us and get ready to hit the trails!


The Friends of the Library sponsors this program as part of their Program series.

Ghosts of Mount Washington

Thursday, August 28th

6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Periodical Room


Get ready to be enthralled by the mesmerizing storytelling of Author Marianne O'Connor as she takes us on an unforgettable journey through the haunting eight memorials on Mount Washington. Each monument tells a poignant tale of profound loss, offering a glimpse into the past that is both touching and unforgettable, all the while drawing connections to what some call "The Presence"—a spiritual energy tied to the many souls who perished on the mountain.


Marianne will share her experiences aboard the Cog Railway, where she had the opportunity to visit these heartfelt memorials. One particularly moving exhibit pays tribute to Lizzie Bourne, a young woman from Maine who tragically lost her life on the summit in 1855. These gripping narratives will resonate deeply, fostering a connection with the remarkable history of Mount Washington.


After her talk, don’t miss the opportunity for a book signing with Marianne. Copies of her insightful book, "Haunted Hikes of New Hampshire -2nd Edition," will be available at White Birch Books. Seize this chance to connect with Mount Washington's powerful history and take home a signed copy!


The Friends of the Conway Public Library sponsors this program as part of their Program series.

Fun Game Nights to Join in On

LFG: Looking for Group

Monday, August 18th

Third Monday of the month

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Ham Room


Join us on the third Monday of each month from 5-7 pm to collect, strategize, play, read, and meet others interested in LFG games like Magic: The Gathering.


This welcoming group celebrates all experience levels and encourages new players to explore diverse worlds and stories through tactical gameplay and gripping novels.

Game Club

Thursdays

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Ham Room



You're invited to join Caitlin and Brenda's Game Club every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Ham Room.


This event is for adults with intellectual disabilities to get together and play board games, card games, and/or work on jigsaw puzzles, watch a film, etc. A support person must accompany each participant and may bring lunch if they choose.

Warhammer Alliance

August 14th & August 27th

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Periodical Room


Warhammer is more than just a game; it connects you to a global community passionate about enchanting worlds and character-driven stories.


With epic battles, unique characters, and endless creativity, there’s a Warhammer experience for everyone, regardless of experience or interest level!

Upcoming After School Program

Minecraft Civilizations

Begins on Tuesday, September 2nd

4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Ham Room

Limited Spots Available, Please Register


Get ready for an exhilarating adventure that will spark your creativity and teamwork! We invite all passionate gamers to join us in an epic journey where you'll collaborate with friends to build your very own civilization within the immersive world of Minecraft Survival! While we’d love to see you each week, feel free to join us whenever you can—every session promises fun!


With only 12 spots available, this program is designed for all passionate gamers in Grades 3 and up. Get ready to unleash your creativity and construct something truly incredible together! We can’t wait to see what we’ll create as a team!

Story Times to Mark on Your Calendar

Once Upon A Story Hour

Thursday, August 28th

4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Ham Room



Join us for an enchanting storytime with Once Upon a Story Hour on Thursday, August 28th, at 4:30 p.m. in the Ham Room. Ms. Frizzle will be coming to celebrate Back to School. Enjoy school-themed stories, followed by a fun activity where you'll decorate a pencil case. Everyone is invited, but please note that an adult must accompany children under 10 years old.

Summer Story Time

Tuesday Mornings

10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Ham Room



Join Tessa and Drea to explore stories, songs, various activities, and all-around fun each week. Everyone is invited, but please remember that an adult must accompany children under 10.

Delayed Opening on Friday 29th

Yoga in the Park

Saturdays

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Library Park


Join Dixie Lea for an uplifting hour of yoga in the beautiful Library Park. This event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all ages. Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine as you stretch and relax in a friendly community setting. 


Don’t forget to bring your towel, mat, and water to stay refreshed. Your support through donations is greatly appreciated and helps keep this wonderful event going.

Reminder of Holiday: September 1st

Spotlight at the Library

Conway Public Library Park Project

Phase 1 Complete


After significant construction at the Conway Public Library over the past month, we are happy to announce that the first phase of the Library Park Project has been completed. The new parking lot layout has added three additional parking spaces to our existing lot, as well as a second van accessible handicap parking space. The new curb layout creates a

smoother entrance into the lot that improves traffic flow, eases parking congestion, and allows for more efficient snow removal by the Public Works Department - reducing the Library’s winter maintenance costs. Pedestrian walkways have also been established along the full length of Greenwood Ave, making accessing the Library safer and more convenient for everyone in our community.


With this work complete, the Library has been granted a partial notice to proceed with developing construction documents for the second phase of the Library Park Project, utilizing federal grant funds from the Northern Border Regional Commission. The Conway Public Library was awarded a $340,000 matching grant from NBRC in 2023 to pursue improvements to the Library Park. In the Spring of 2026, we hope to begin construction of an open-air pavilion structure with lighting and WiFi access, accessible pathways, and multifunctional gathering areas, landscaping improvements

including fencing for child safety and vegetative buffers from road noise, and other infrastructure to support outdoor library programming and community events, such as a StoryWalk and natural children’s play and picnic area.


The Friends of the Conway Public Library are still actively fundraising to bring this vital community project to life and continue to welcome donations from individuals, foundations, and local businesses. We extend our sincere thanks to our generous Park Patron Donors - Richard Brown, the Hannaford Charitable Foundation, the Cabot Family Charitable Trust,

White Mountain Oil & Propane, the Robert & Dorothy Goldberg Charitable Foundation, the Davis Family Foundation, the Ham Charitable Foundation, HEB Engineers, and to the many community-minded donors who have supported this project so far. Every contribution helps us create a more inclusive and dynamic public space for all.


For more information, please contact Ginny Nossiff, Park Committee Chair, at ginnossiff@gmail.com. To learn more about the planned improvements or to make a donation, please visit: 

tinyurl.com/CPLParkProject


Northern New Hampshire Library Cooperative Common Borrower Card


Your Conway Public Library card now grants you access to materials at the Ossipee, Jackson, Madison, and Cook Memorial (Tamworth) Libraries. Present your Conway library card to borrow items at any NNHLC library, or browse our shared catalog to request items be transferred to Conway for convenient pick-up.


Please note:

 Library cards are not required for admission to programs, use of public access computers, or borrowing the Believe in Books Foundation Red Bags for children.

15 Greenwood Avenue

Conway, NH 03818

603.447.5552


www.conwaypubliclibrary.org

Hours

Mon-Thur 9 am-8 pm

Fri 9 am-5 pm

Sat 9 am-1 pm


Henney History Hours

Mon, Tue, Thur 9-2 pm

Wed 3-8 pm

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