Volume 8 No. 8 July 30, 2024 | |
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In each issue of this newsletter, we thank you for supporting the fundraising efforts of the Friends so that we can pay for the 30 - 50 programs listed here each month. All of us together allow for this amazing quantity and quality of programs.
However, I find myself remiss in not pointing out that it is the librarians who put this whole set of programs together each month. This, of course, is in addition to their full time jobs each day serving all of us patrons in the library, on the phone, or by email. They provide hundreds and hundreds of pieces of assistance for adults, teens, tweens and children each day.
They not only create new ideas for programs and then find community members to facilitate the programs, but they also create engaging posters and websites to let us know about them. A good number of the programs are either facilitated by the librarians themselves, or they attend the programs to be sure they run smoothly.
Try to find another library in Western Massachusetts that has the the number of superior, diverse programs offered here in Greenfield. Our librarians create an environment that supports local authors, crafters, artists, parents, social activists, service providers, and farmers. Programs that engage children, tweens, teens and a diverse pool of adults.
So the next time you are served by one of our librarians, thank them for going well beyond the minimum, and creating such rich programatic offerings.
If possible please read this newsletter on your desktop; it's not optimized for mobile devices, but certainly readable on them.
Thanks for your engagement and loyalty,
-Paul
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Scrolling through this issue, you'll find:
Friends of the GPL Events
Adult & All-Ages Programing:
Unique & Ongoing
Teen Programing:
Unique & Ongoing
Child, Tween, & Family Programing:
Unique & Ongoing
Library Resources & Opportunities
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FRIENDS OF THE GPL EVENTS | |
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This is the raffle where you can win hundreds of dollars of gift certificates to the best restaurants in Franklin County.
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The Amazing Friends of the Library Restaurant Raffle will be back in September
Look for details in the September newsletter. It is also our biggest fundraiser. It pays for all the programs you see each month in this newsletter. We will be selling raffle tickets at the Franklin County Fair, at the library, and at various places around the county.
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ADULT & ALL-AGE
PROGRAMING
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Greenfield Public Library and the Franklin County Agricultural Society have joined forces to help you create that craft you’re always talking about entering in the fair.
Do you visit the Roundhouse at the Franklin County Fair each summer and think to yourself, I should really enter something in the fair? Here’s your chance!
This summer the Greenfield Public Library will be offering 5 beginner to novice craft programs to help jump start your creativity. The subjects being taught are macrame, knitting, crocheting, miniatures and upcycled sewing.
This fun series of practical craft classes will be held in the library’s makerspace and run by a variety of talented instructors. The goal of this series is to jumpstart people on the path to entering a project in the Roundhouse at the Franklin County Fair in September.
All classes are free and materials will be provided unless otherwise noted. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for each class. At the conclusion of each class, participants will be given information on how and when to enter the projects in the fair.
Crochet a Bag, 2 Part Series: Tuesdays, August 6 & 13, 5:30-7:30 pm, Makerspace
Class is currently full, but there is a waitlist available
Learn crochet basics and make a bag in this 2 part class with David Moscaritolo, aka “that guy who crochets”.
Pre-register here: https://forms.gle/EURZFVBdgoS3p51P8
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Roundhouse Summer Craft Series
Making Miniatures: Wednesday, August 7, 5:30-7:30 pm, Makerspace
Class is currently full, but there is a waitlist available
Create a tiny bookshelf and fill it with miniature treasures in this class led by dollhouse flipper Faith Reipold.
*Faith’s own dollhouses, filled with her handmade miniatures, are currently on display in the Makerspace.
Pre-register here: https://forms.gle/QR5djWu4ow2r5twy5
Upcycled Sewing with Heidi from Plum: Tuesdays, August 20 & 27, 5:30-7:30 pm, Makerspace
Class is currently full, but there is a waitlist available
Join Heidi Weeks, of Plum fame, and create a brand new shirt out of your old clothes and favorite textiles. Sewing machine experience is required for this class and class size is limited to 6 in this 2 part program.
Pre-register here: https://forms.gle/KcaA8Hyr2BRg9Neq9
These programs are free, but pre-registration is required.
For more information, contact Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov, or call (413) 772-1544.
These programs, generously sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, in partnership with Franklin County Agricultural Society, are free and open to everyone aged 13 and over.
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Literary Teas:
Little Women
Louisa May Alcott
Tuesday, August 20
6:30 - 7:30 pm -
Conference Room
Good books, good tea & good company. What could be better to end your busy day?
Literary Teas combines literary works of fiction with cozy cups of local tea, from Greenfield’s local tea shop: Alchemy of Avalon. Join Lisa and Diane for a GPL discussion of Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, on Tuesday, April 30 at 6:30 pm, in the Conference Room.
This semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story follows four
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sisters growing up in rural 19th-century New England, and the independent and outspoken main character is based on the author herself.
Copies of the book are available at the Library. To reserve your cup of tea, email us at librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org.
This program, made possible through the generosity of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and open to the public
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Elevenses: a light refreshment (such as a snack) taken in the middle of the morning.
Please join The Fellowship of the Library for our End of the Summer Reading program get together, on Friday, August 2, at 11:00 am. We will celebrate our journey Hobbit-style.
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Elevenses:
GPL Summer Reading
Wrap Up
Friday, August 2
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Community Meeting Room
Find out how far we have managed to get in 6 weeks on our recreated journey to Mordor and share with others your favorite books that you re-read during this time.
This program, sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and open to everyone in our community.
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Bookends Summer Book Discussion:
Just Mercy
Bryan Stevenson
Thursday, August 22
5:30 pm - Community Meeting Room
Welcome to Bookends, a collaboration between Greenfield Public Library and Greenfield Community College. We meet four times a year to read and discuss books that appeal to a wide range of ages from teen to senior citizen. Our goal is to bring readers of different generations and backgrounds together and spark conversations that unite our community.
Our summer read is “Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson. Just Mercy tells the story of Bryan Stevenson, a young lawyer who founded the Equal Justice Initiative, a legal practice dedicated to defending those most desperate and in need: the poor, the wrongly condemned, and women and children trapped in the farthest reaches of our criminal justice system.
The book discussion will be held on Thursday, August 22, from 5:30 - 7:00 pm at the Greenfield Public Library. We’ll start our meeting with a meet and greet and appetizers.
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Copies of the book are available for check out at Greenfield Public Library and the Nahman-Watson Library at GCC. Large print and audiobooks are also available.
Pre-registration is recommended but not required: https://www.gcc.mass.edu/events/bookends-an-intergenerational-book-club/
If you have any questions please contact Francesca Passigilia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov or Judy Raper at raperj@gcc.mass.edu We look forward to seeing you!
This program, generously sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library is free and intended for ages 13 to 101.
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Local author Phyllis Brooks will be at the Greenfield Public Library to talk about her new book HOLD ON TO WHAT IS GOOD: A Dementia Caregiver’s Story and a Memorial to an Exceptional Being.
Mark led a remarkable life, before succumbing to dementia around 7 years ago. Although badly abused physically and psychically by his mother from a very young age, he managed to learn about love through his Druid grandparents and their connection with Nature. Phyllis lived with him for thirty years.
During the last seven years she cared for him and chronicled his slow mental decline. This is not a “how to” book on living with dementia or caring for a person with dementia. It is a recording of their journey through the unspeakable with widely varying degrees of acceptance and grace. Each person has to navigate such a journey by themself. This is also a tribute to Mark, to his life and his spirit. It is a love poem of memory, respect, pain and joy.
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Local Author Talk
Hold on to
What is Good
Phyllis Brooks
Aug 16, 3:00 pm
Community Meeting Room
Phyllis wrote a few songs during this period. She will play one or two of them, including the title song “Hold On To What Is Good.”
Phyllis Brooks has been making & distributing flower & gem remedies since 1984. She
teaches New Paradigm Multi-Dimensional Transformation, a self-empowerment
modality. She is also an artist and a practitioner of Soul Wisdom remote energy clear-
ings. She lives in Wendell, Massachusetts.
Book and ebook available at Amazon and at phyllismichalbrooks.com. Copies will be available for purchase at the event.
This program is free and open to the public.
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GPL Art Show:
The Day After Yesterday: Portraits of Dimentia
Joe Wallace
Beginning Mon, July 1st
Community Meeting Room
The Greenfield Public Library welcomes photographer Joe Wallace and his exhibit The Day After Yesterday: Portraits of Dementia, which will be on display in the Library’s Community Meeting Room from July through September 2024.
The Day After Yesterday is a powerful collection of portraits and personal stories that destigmatizes dementia and humanizes the millions of people living with the disease.
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It deftly combines narrative and portraiture, breaking the taboo around dementia, replacing the fear, futility, and despair that are so often associated with the disease with empathy, nuance, and complexity.
A program and reception with Joe Wallace will be held September 16, 2024, at 6:30 pm in the Community Meeting Room.
This program is free and open to everyone in our community.
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Virtual Author Talk Series
Dr. Jennifer Levasseur
Irena Smith
Shelby Van Pelt
Join us this August for these inspirational virtual author talks!
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Dr. Jennifer Levasseur:
Behind the Scenes at the Space Station
Wednesday, August 7, 2:00 pm
You’re invited to virtually step inside one of the greatest international achievements with a behind-the-scenes guide to space exploration with the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum curator Dr. Jennifer Levasseur.
Revealing a new perspective into the world of space exploration and the daring astronauts who make it possible, Dr. Levasseur will guide you through the Smithsonian’s Behind the Scenes at the Space Station and take you on a once-in-a-lifetime virtual tour of the space station.
You will learn what the astronauts do once they make it to the International Space Station, from experiments to repairs and so much more! Behind the Scenes at the Space Station is a treasure trove of information. Brimming with astonishing visuals, step-by-step explanations of everyday space work in action, and job profiles of the adventurous people who make it happen, Dr. Levasseur’s tour Behind the Scenes at the Space Station is the perfect way to spend an hour and experience life in space. Register now!
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Irena Smith
The Golden Ticket
Thursday, August 15, 2:00 pm
Another college application season is around the corner, and stress is already beginning to ratchet up for teens and their parents. You’re invited to join us for this must-watch talk by Irena Smith, PhD. You will hear about constructive and healthy ways to approach the college application process, preserve your relationship with your teen, and help them define success on their terms instead of chasing the elusive “golden ticket.” Irena’s memoir, The Golden Ticket: A Life in College Admissions Essays, which candidly explores her personal as well as professional life, was published in 2023, and she has since devoted her time to speaking out about hard things: the heavy burden of generational expectations, teen and young adult mental health, and the importance of embracing a broader, more generous vision of what it means to succeed.
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Shelby Van Pelt
Remarkably Bright Creatures
Wednesday, August 21, 7:00 pm
Join us as we chat with the amazing New York Times bestselling author Shelby Van Pelt about her beloved novel Remarkably Bright Creatures. You don’t want to miss this deep dive exploration of friendship, reckoning, hope, and so much more!
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a luminous debut novel about a widow’s unlikely friendship with a giant Pacific octopus, named Marcellus, reluctantly residing at the local aquarium—and the truths she finally uncovers about her son’s disappearance 30 years ago. Marcellus knows more than anyone can imagine, but wouldn’t dream of lifting one of his eight tentacles for his human captors—until he forms an unlikely friendship with Tova. Ever the detective, Marcellus deduces what happened the night Tova’s son disappeared. As his affection for Tova grows, Marcellus must use every trick his old, invertebrate body can muster to unearth the truth for her before it’s too late. Register now for a conversation you just don't want to miss!
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For more information, and to register for these and other upcoming talks, go to https://libraryc.org/greenfieldpubliclibrary
This program, brought to you by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium, is free and open to the public.
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Greenfield Community College
Information Sessions
Tuesday, August 6
4:00 - 6:00 pm
Tuesday, August 20
10:00 - 11:30 am
Main Lobby
Come visit GCC at the GPL!!
An admission representative will be tabling at the Greenfield Public Library to talk more about the MassReconnect Program, which gives aid to students 25 and over who don't have a college degree to attend community college for free!
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MassReconnect funds free community college certificates and degrees including all costs related to tuition, fees, books and supplies. Come learn more about this opportunity at GCC!
For questions, contact Aaron Hellem at hellema@gcc.mass.edu.
This program is free and open to everyone in our community.
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Westover Job Corps Information Session
Friday, August 2
1:00 - 3:00 pm
Main Lobby
Are you a young adult looking for a career in one of today’s fastest growing industries?
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Raymond Sanchez of Westover Job Corps will be at the Greenfield Public Library on Friday, August 2, from 1:00 - 3:00 pm, to answer questions and provide information about their programs.
Job Corps is a tuition-free training and education program that connects eligible young men and women with the skills and educational opportunities they need to establish real careers. The program also provides the hands-on, practical experience needed to begin working towards a long term successful career.
Job Corps is a U.S. Department of Labor Equal Opportunity Employer Program for eligible adults aged 16 - 24.
This program is free and open to the public.
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Western Massachusetts Master Gardeners Association
Information Session
Wednesday
August 14
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Main Lobby
Interested in becoming a Master Gardener?
The Western Massachusetts Master Gardener Association (WMMGA) is now accepting applications for their 2025 Master Gardener program. Stop by the Greenfield Public Library on Wednesday, August 15, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm to talk with WMMGA members to learn more of what Master Gardeners do, their volunteer projects, what the training class is like and what skills they’ll be looking for in applicants.
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The Western Massachusetts Master Gardener Association WMMGA) is a member-
managed nonprofit organization dedicated to the educational mission of promoting good
and sustainable gardening practices.
Each Master Gardener has completed an in-depth training program, including hands-on activities in gardening and public education, and has made a commitment to participate in WMMGA-sponsored public programs each year. WMMGA is an Affiliate of the national Master Gardener program of the American Horticultural Society.
This program is free and open to the public.
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Representatives from LifePath will answer questions and offer information about available services and volunteer resources available to you and your loved ones.
LifePath is a nonprofit organization serving older people, people with disabilities,
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Life Path Information Session
Thursday, August 15
2:00 - 3:30 pm
Main Lobby
and caregivers in Western and Central Mass, helping people stay independent in their homes and communities. LifePath coordinates the right services for each person using a variety of providers and programs, working with people of all incomes.
For more information about LifePath, visit the website at www.lifepathma.org, or call 413-773-5555.
This program is free and open to everyone in our community.
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Big Brothers
Big Sisters
Information Session
Monday, August 5
1:00 - 3:00 pm
Saturday, August 24
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Main Lobby
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Noah Pfieffer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western Mass (BBBSWM) will be at the Greenfield Public Library on Monday, August 5, from 1:00 - 3:00 pm to offer information and answer questions about their programs.
BBBSWM is recruiting local youth who are interested in having a positive mentor in their life.They offer a variety of programs that enable every child to meet with a volunteer, regardless of transportation or circumstance.
This program is free and open to the public.
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Local AUthor Talk
with
Alden Dryer
Wednesday, August 21
6:00 pm
Community Meeting Room
The Greenfield Public Library welcomes local author Alden Dreyer on Wednesday, August 21 at 6:00 pm in the Community Meeting Room as he reads from and discusses his book The Tired Telegrapher’s Terribly Tall Traveler’s Tale.
In this whimsical, autobiographical, historical novel, the only son of a career aircraft engine factory worker becomes enthralled with the railroad industry at the time that the railways were disinvesting and disintegrating in the late 1950's. After quitting high school at age 15, Alden fumbles around for a number of years and finally is hired as a spare telegrapher on the Boston & Maine in July 1964.
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Railroad work is challenging and fun, but Alden learns all too soon that it is detrimental to his health and love life. The health issue is finally resolved by retiring at age 41 on permanent disability. The love life problem is more complex, and after two failed marriages, Alden makes a deal with his Boss, Father Time, that if the Boss will provide the woman he wants and needs, then Alden will create the book the Boss wants and needs according to the Book of Revelations. This book, nearly a half century in the making, is the fulfillment of that long ago contract with the Boss. Alden is absolutely delighted with the woman that was provided. Will this book please the Boss? Time will tell.
Alden Dreyer has lived in Shelburne for decades and is the chair of the board of the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum. His book is available at the World Eye Bookshop and on Amazon and eBay. Copies will be available for purchase at the event.
This program is free and open to the public.
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Drop-In Tech Help with Tech Foundry
GPL Conference Room
Thursday, August 8
Thursday, August 15
10:00 - 11:00 am
and
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Do you need help using your computer, tablet, or smartphone? Come to a drop-in tech help session! Leon from Tech Foundry will be at the library on Tuesday, Aug 8, and Thursday, Aug 15 to help you with your tech issues. Drop in between 10:00 - 11:00 am or 12:00 - 1:00 pm on either day with your device, or use a library laptop.
Tech Foundry stands as Western Massachusetts' premier IT workforce development non-profit, fostering collaboration among residents, employers, and community partners to empower individuals with digital literacy skills and secure living wage jobs.
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Their programs include a tuition-free IT support training program, and “Tech Hub”, which provides digital literacy and computer training; these programs work to help Massachusetts residents and organizations thrive in today's digital landscape. To learn more, visit https://thetechfoundry.org/
For more information about the drop-in tech help sessions, contact Pamela McBride at librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org, or call (413) 772-1544 x5124
The Greenfield Public Library would like to thank Tech Foundry, and the Alliance for Digital Equity for making this program possible. The tech sessions are free and open to everyone in our community.
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GPL's Spice Club Kit
Available Tuesday,
August 6
Do you love to cook and want to try new flavors and recipes? Stop by the library and pick up this month’s Spice Club Kit, available on Tuesday, August 6.
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In August, we’re cooking with lemongrass, a grass often used in Asian Cuisines. Included in this month’s kit are a sample of dried lemongrass, recipes, propagation tips, and information about the spice.
Registration is not required, but supplies are limited. Spice Kits can be picked up at the second-floor Reader’s Advisory Desk, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Unavailable to make it into the library to pick up a kit? We have all the recipes for this and the other spices we’ve explored on our Spice Club Blog.
This program, generously supported by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and intended for ages 13 and over.
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Greenfield Recycling Program
Information Session
Tuesday, August 20
2:00 - 4:00 pm,
Main Lobby
Sean Kelleher, Greenfield’s SWIFR Recycling Outreach Coordinator, will be at the Greenfield Public Library to provide information and answer questions about the City’s new recycling program.
Greenfield is rolling out a new recycling program in 2025!
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Switching to automated single stream recycling collection, all recyclables, including cardboard, will go into one large cart—no more sorting! These new carts are on wheels and super easy to push to the curb on recycling days. To hear more information about this recycling transition stop by and learn all about how it works!
This Information Session is free and intended for Greenfield residents.
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GPL Goes to the Movies
Community Meeting Room
Thursday, August 1, 8, 15, 2:00 pm
Monday, August 19, 26, 5:30 pm
Join us for “GPL goes to the Movies”. Due to licensing restrictions we can’t share the names of the movies, but we can give you the following hints:
Thursday, August 1, 2:00 pm:
The British military enlists a small group of highly skilled soldiers to launch an attack against German forces behind enemy lines during World War II. (Rated R).
Thursday, August 8, 2:00 pm:
The intoxicating screenplay by Donald Ogden Stewart pits the formidable Philadelphia socialite Tracy Lord against various romantic foils, chief among them her charismatic ex-husband, who disrupts her imminent marriage by paying her family estate a visit, accompanied by a tabloid reporter on assignment to cover the wedding of the year. (Rated TV-G)
Thursday, August 15, 2:00 pm:
Yves, a passionate conservationist, leaves behind the comforts of modern life to live on a remote island with only birds for company. There, he makes a cruel pact to save the endangered seabirds from extinction, but at what price? (Not Rated)
Monday, August 19, 5:30 pm:
The Spengler family returns to where it all started, the iconic New York City firehouse, to team up with the original Ghostbusters gang, who have developed a top-secret research lab to take busting ghosts to the next level. But when the discovery of an ancient relic unleashes an evil force, Ghostbusters new and old must join forces to protect their home and save the world from a second Ice Age. (Rated PG-13)
Monday, August 26, 5:30 pm:
Four children (the Swallows) on holiday in the Lake District sail on their own to an island and start a war with rival children (the Amazons). In the meantime, a mysterious man on a houseboat accuses them of a crime they did not commit.(Rated TV-14)
Doors open 30 minutes before the show starts. Outside food and drink are allowed. All movies start at 2 p.m. and run until completed, unless otherwise indicated.
For more information, contact Jeremiah Rood at
librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org or call (413) 772-1544.
Movies are free to the public, thanks to the generous support of
the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library.
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ONGOING ADULT & ALL-AGES PROGRAMING | |
NEW! Mystery Readers Book Club
Wednesday, August 7
6:30 pm
Conference Room
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Join us at the GPL for a different type of Book Club, hosted by Karen Larsen on the first Wednesday of each month.
Because we each have our own tastes in mysteries we don’t ask everyone to read the same book each month. Instead we get together in a casual friendly environment and talk about what we’ve each been reading individually.
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Whether your thing is country cozies, dark Scandinavian noir, serial killer thrillers, historical whodunnits, spy drama, fantasy conundrums, or another branch of the genre, we’ll enjoy your insights into what you are reading.
This is a guilt-free book club! Didn’t have time to read anything this month? No problem! It’s fine to just come and enjoy the discussion, and you may have insights into the books others have read. Didn’t like the book or books you read? It’s interesting to hear about that too. Looking for new authors? This book club is a great way to find them. When there’s time we also talk about mysteries on Film and TV.
Karen will bring a snack and you bring your unique interests and insights. We look forward to meeting you for a fun discussion!
For more information, contact
Lisa Prolman at librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org
or call (413) 772-1544
This program is free and intended for ages 14 and over.
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Wednesday Night Writer's Workshop
Wednesdays
August 7, 14, 21, 28
6:00 pm
Local History Room
Writers are invited to attend a weekly informal gathering on Wednesday nights at 6 pm, in the GPL Local History Room, to workshop their prose and poetry in-progress. Everyone is welcome to bring three single-spaced or six double-spaced pages max and enough copies so that everyone can read along
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so that everyone can read along and provide feedback. Writers will take turns reading their work aloud, with a volunteer moderator leading the discussion. Writers listen, rather than respond, during critique of their work.
This program is free and intended for ages 12 and up.
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NEW! Silent Book Club
Monday, August 12
6:00 - 8:00 pm
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Looking for some quiet time to read? Join our Silent Book Club on the second Monday of the month, June 10, at 6:00 pm. Drop by the Makerspace between 6:00 and 6:45 to chat with other readers…then find a quiet place in the library and read until closing time!
At Silent Book Club, there's no assigned reading. All books are acceptable — ebooks, audiobooks, textbooks, comic books... It's BYOBook. Everyone is welcome.
For more information, contact Lisa Prolman at librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org or call us at (413) 772-1544
This program is free and open to everyone in our community.
image borrowed from a recent Washington Post article,
"At Silent Book Clubs, Socializing in Optional"
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MahJong at the GPL
Thursdays
Mah Jong is on Summer Hiatus and will return later this Fall.
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Adult Game Area
Join your neighbors in a fun and exciting round of American Mah Jong.
Newcomers welcome.
No experience required.
This program is free and intended for ages 14 and up.
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GPL Library
Chess Club
Mondays
August 5, 12, 19, 26
5:30 - 7:30 pm
2nd Floor
Meet up with other chess players at the Greenfield Public Library. All ages and skill levels are welcome, for both casual and serious games. Chess instruction is available for beginners and anyone wanting to learn the game. Chess sets will be provided, but feel free to bring your own!
This program is free and open to all, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
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Drop-in Scrabble Night
Tuesday August 6, 20
4:30 - 6:30 pm
Adult Game Area
Spellmasters are invited to drop in for a game of Scrabble on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. Players of all experience levels are welcome, as the focus is on having fun!
Games start at 4:30 & 5:30 pm.
This program, made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and intended for ages 12 and older.
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Conversational French
Tuesday, August 27
5:30 - 6:30 pm
Conference Room
--Vous parlez français? --Euh... oui, un peu.
If this is you, and you would like to put a few drops of oil on your rusty French conversation skills, have a seat at La Table Française, in the GPL’s Conference Room.
This is an intermediate conversation group, not a class. Tamara Grogan, Greenfield resident and 25-year veteran French teacher, will facilitate.
If interested, please send an email to Tamara at lagrogan1@gmail.com.
À bientôt!
This program is free and intended for ages 16+
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Greenfield Ukulele Players
Friday, August 2, 16
1:00 - 2:30 pm
Conference Room
Join The Greenfield Ukulele Players on the first and third Fridays of each month.
All you need is love…and a ukulele!
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Meditative Writing (Drop In)
The Declaration of Independence
and The U. S. Constitution
Tuesdays
August 6, 13, 20, 27
Local History Room - drop in any time
This election season, stop by the Greenfield Public Library’s Local History Room on Tuesdays to copy and reflect on the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
Take a break from the hectic, often frenzied, election news coverage to study, reflect, and increase your understanding of our rights as citizens of the United States.
Copies of the documents and writing materials will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own!
This program is free and open to everyone in our community.
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Drop-In Knitting & Crochet
Tuesdays
August 6, 13, 20, 27
1:00 - 2:30 pm
Makerspace
Drop in at the Greenfield Public Library for a knitting/crocheting group! All skill levels are welcome, whether you’re new with needles and hooks, or an old pro. Bring your own supplies, and enjoy some time working on your project while connecting with other crafters.
This program is free and intended for ages 12 and up.
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WordPress Meet-up
Wednesday, Aug 14th
6:00 - 7:50 pm
Conference Room
Connect with other WordPress users! This meetup on the 2nd Wednesday of each month is open to anyone interested in WordPress: newbies, developers, designers and administrators.
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Bring your WordPress questions! This is a great time to figure out where you're stuck, and make some progress on your project. You may wish to bring a laptop to take notes or to share your screen. You may need a HDMI port or adapter if you want to plug into the big screen.
This program is free and open to everyone in our community.
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For more information about
any of the following programs, contact
Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
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Back to School
Prep Party
Friday, August 23
1:00 - 3:00 pm
Teen Room
Want to start the school year feeling organized, relaxed and confident?
Join us to clean out your backpack and get ready for the upcoming school year.
We’ll have basic school supplies on hand as well as demos on bullet journaling, vision boards, non-stressful after school schedules, making after school snacks and more! Each attendee will receive a free ice cream cone from Ice Cream Alley and we’ll have a special celebrity guest: Miss Winn from GMS!
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For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
This program, generously sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and strictly for youth 13 - 20
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All Month Long
Finish your Assigned Summer Reading
at the Library
Still trying to finish up your summer reading before the school year starts? We’re here to help! At the library we have tons of comfy seating, refreshing a/c, and peace and quiet. Plus, we’ll be offering snacks in the teen room to readers and have a raffle for some great back to school gifts! The more time you spend reading at the library, the higher your chances of winning!!
For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
This program, generously sponsored by
the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library,
is free and intended for youth aged 13 - 20.
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3:00 - 4:00 pm, Teen Room
Are you interested in being a teen volunteer at the library? Join us on Monday, August 12, at 3:00 pm as we create a survey for our peers about the mural going up in the Teen Room, and plan our Fall programs while eating pizza. New members are always welcome.
For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
This program, generously sponsored by
the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library,
is free and strictly for youth 13 - 20
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This program, generously sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and strictly for youth aged 13 - 20. | |
Snack and a Movie
Friday August 9
2:00pm
Teen Room
Join us to watch the movie based on Andy Weir’s novel The Martian, and sample all the different flavors of Lays chips.
For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
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Virtual Reality
Gaming Drop-In
Wed, August 14
1 - 3 pm
Fri, August 30
2:30 - 4:30 pm
Teen Room
Try out our Meta Quest VR Headsets!
30 minute gaming times will be available on a first come, first served basis.
For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
This program, generously sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and strictly for youth aged 13-20.
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This program, generously sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free
and strictly for youth 13 - 20
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Digital Art Drop-In
Friday, August 16
1 - 3 pm
Teen Room
Bring your own tablet or iPad or use one of the teen room’s drawing tablets in this teen led event on Friday, August 16, from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. We’ll be doing some tutorials, sharing techniques and playing drawing games.
For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
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Learn a Board Game:
Really Loud Librarians
Wednesday, August 21
11am - 4 pm
Teen Room
Drop in to the Teen Room and learn how to play the board game “Really Loud Librarians”, From the creators of “Exploding Kittens”, you’ll need to think fast, not hard in this merciless word-shouting board game.
For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
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This program, generously sponsored by the Friends of
the Greenfield Public Library, is free and strictly for youth
aged 13 - 20.
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For more information contact Teen Librarian Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov
This program, generously sponsored by the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and strictly for youth aged 13 - 20.
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Mass Teen Choice Book Award Reading Challenge
June through August, Teen Room
Each week through August, we’ll be highlighting two nominees from this year’s Mass Teen Choice Book Award shortlist. There are 21 titles total and a wide range of genres available to read.
Teens can vote for their favorite books in September.
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CHILD, TWEEN & FAMILY
PROGRAMING
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An adult is required to be present with children under 8 participating in GPL programs. | |
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For more information about
any of the following programs,
contact Children’s Librarian Ellen Lavoie at ellen.lavoie@greenfield-ma.gov
or call (413) 772-1544 x5104.
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Friday, August 16, 3:30 - 4:30
Kids can meet and spend time with a certified therapy dog in the Children’s Room
For more information, contact Children’s Librarian Ellen Lavoie at ellen.lavoie@greenfield-ma.gov or call (413) 772-1544 x5104.
This program is free, and intended for kids aged 3 - 12.
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Back to School Keychains (drop-in)
Wednesday, Aug 14
Friday, Aug 23
2:00 - 3:00 pm
Join us to help get ready for the new school year! Kids can personalize their backpack this school year with their own beaded keychain. They can spell out their name or make a cool pattern, it’s up to them!
This program is being offered on two dates, August 14 and August 23. Drop-in any time from 2:00 - 3:00 pm on either date to customize a beaded keychain.
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For more information, contact Children’s Librarian Ellen Lavoie at ellen.lavoie@greenfield-ma.gov or call (413) 772-1544 x5104.
This program, made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and open to families with children ages 5 -12.
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This program, made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library and Greenfield Public Schools, is free and open to all kids aged 0 -18.
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Summer Eats Supper Pickup & Activity
Mondays through August 12
5 to 6 pm
This summer, Greenfield Public Library is excited to be a pickup location for the Summer Eats food program from Greenfield Public Schools. Families with kids up to age 18 can pick up a FREE supper on Monday nights (plus, the next day's breakfast upon request) AND participate in an activity in the Children’s activity room.
For more information, contact Children’s Librarian Ellen Lavoie at ellen.lavoie@greenfield-ma.gov or call (413) 772-1544 x5104.
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Beavers: Nature's Engineers with MA Audubon
Tues, August 6
11:00 am
Why do beavers have orange teeth? How do they build lodges and dams? Find out the answers to these questions and more! Join a Mass Audubon educator to explore the wild world of beavers by reading a book, dressing up as a beaver, and making a craft.
This program is free, but registration is required. Please register through the events calendar on greenfieldpubliclibray.org
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For more information, contact Children’s Librarian Ellen Lavoie at ellen.lavoie@greenfield-ma.gov or call (413) 772-1544 x5104.
This program, made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free, and intended for ages 5 - 12
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Piti Theater Presents
Story Wizards!
Saturday, August 3
10:30 am
Children's Room
A Wizard Even Crankier than the Story Wizard has stolen the world's tales. Now the Story Wizard must set off to find them. Will YOU help? Join us for this interactive theater experience for kids up to age 12 on Saturday, August 3, at 10:30 am.
This program is free, but registration is required. Please register through the events calendar on greenfieldpubliclibray.org
For more information, contact Children’s Librarian Ellen Lavoie at ellen.lavoie@greenfield-ma.gov or call (413) 772-1544 x5104.
This program, made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and open to families with children ages 0-12.
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Family Movie Night
Mondays
Monday, August 5, 12
5:30 pm
Community Meeting Room
Join us this summer, for Family Movie night! Due to licensing restrictions we can’t share the names of the movies, but we can give you the following hint:
August 5: When a small-town sheriff discovers Sonic, a talking hedgehog with amazing abilities, he sets out to save him from the evil Dr. Robotnik.
August 12: In this big-screen Ninjago adventure, the battle for Ninjago City calls to action young Lloyd, aka the Green Ninja (Dave Franco), along with his friends, who are all secret warriors and LEGO Master Builders.
Doors open 30 minutes before the show starts. Outside food and drink are allowed. All movies start at 5:30pm and run until completed, unless otherwise indicated.
For more information, contact Jeremiah Rood at
librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org or call (413) 772-1544.
Movies are free to the public, thanks to the generous support of
the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library.
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ONGOING CHILD & FAMILY
PROGRAMING
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An adult is required to be present with children under 8 participating in GPL programs. | |
Book Babies with Ellen Lavoie
Tuesdays at 10:00 am
August 6,13
There will be no Book Babies in the weeks starting 8/19 and 8/26. They will resume in September.
Story time is back, babies!
Join Children’s Librarian, Ellen Lavoie, in the new Children’s Room for reading, lap bouncing, and singing on Tuesdays at 10:00 am. It’s a great way to meet other babies, new parents, and caregivers!
Recommended ages for this 30-minute program are
birth-18 months.
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Toddler Time with Ellen Lavoie
Wednesdays at 10:00 am
August 7, 14
There will be no Toddler Time in the weeks starting 8/19 and 8/26. They will resume in September.
Toddlers, get those wiggles out!
Join Children’s Librarian, Ellen Lavoie, for stories, songs, and activities focused on early literacy, Wednesdays at 10:00 am in the new Children’s Room.
Recommended ages for this 30–45 minute program are
18-36 months.
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Preschool Storytime
Thursdays at 10:00 am
August 8
The last Preschool Storytime will be on 8/8.
Meet and make new friends as we read, sing, and try activities designed to support early learning.
Recommended ages for this 45 minute program is 3 - 5 years.
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These children's programs, sponsored by
the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library,
are free and open to the public.
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GPL Lego Club
Mondays
August 5, 12, 19, 26
3:30 - 5:00 pm
Come be a part of the kids' GPL Lego Club!
Legos will be available to play with in the Children's Room every Monday from 3:30 - 5:00 pm.
Complete one of the given challenges or make your own creation to be put on display until the next week.
This program, made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, is free and recommended for children age 3+.
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LIBRARY
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
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Check us out 24/7 at at our website for e-books, audiobooks, movie streaming, music, and research fun.
Greenfield Public Library Hours
Monday through Wednesday: 9:30 am – 8 pm
Thursday and Friday: 9:30 am – 5 pm
Saturday: 9:30 am – 2 pm
For security purposes, the upstairs floor closes 15 minutes before closing time. Main doors are locked 5 minutes before closing.
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Launch Your Library Tour
Although many of you are using the new library, some of you have not had an opportunity to visit and partake of the services offered. In order for you to get your bearings even before visiting and to get a feel for the services offered, you have an opportunity to take a virtual library tour.
This is a wonderful, brief yet comprehensive, video tour of the new library facilities produced by librarian Pamela McBride and Philippe Simon of GCTV. Just click on this link to enjoy.
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Museum Passes
at the GPL
Greenfield Public Library’s museum passes are now available!
Pass availability will depend on museum hours. Check museum websites for admission requirements before using passes. Each museum has different requirements.
Passes may only be picked up on the day you have them reserved; only one attraction’s pass per day can be reserved. All museum passes must be returned by 8:30 the next morning.
For more information, and to reserve a pass, visit our pass reservtions web page or call us at: (413) 772-1544.
Museum passes are made possible through the generosity of
the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library.
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Language Learning Resource
Transparent Languages Online provides an effective and engaging experience for language learners looking to build their vocabulary, practice their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, and maintain what they learn.
With courses and supplemental resources in 110+ languages, Transparent Languages can be accessed 24/7, on any device, simply by clicking here! A library card is not required.
Click here to access even more
of the library's language-learning resources.
Questions? Contact us at librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org
or call us at (413) 772 -1544.
These digital resources, made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and the Massachusetts Library System are free, but some services may require a library card.
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Free of Charge at the GPL:
Notary Services
Need a document notarized? One of our library staff members is a notary public, and able to notarize documents as staffing allows. Notary services are available most weekdays, but an appointment is required. This service is provided free of charge.
To schedule an appointment, and to verify that your document meets the Massachusetts Notary Law requirements, please contact us at 413-772-1544, or email Pamela McBride at pamela.mcbride@greenfield-ma.gov
Documents can only be notarized in person. Please bring the unsigned document and a state or federally issued photo ID to your appointment.
Because we are not experts in law or finance, we are unable to notarize some documents. Visit our website at www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org for more details.
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Free Digital Resources
at the Greenfield Public Library
Oh, the things you can do with a Greenfield Public Library Card!
With your GPL card, you have 24/7 access to many digital resources, all free of charge! In addition to movies, books and music, you can read digital comics and the New York Times, access Craftsy, get book reviews and recommendations, find local resources, and more.
For more information, and to access all the GPL digital resources with your library card, go to our website. You’ll find the “Quick links to GPL Resources” on our home page.
These digital resources, made possible through the generosity of
the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library, are free and available to
all GPL Library card holders.
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The Greenfield Public Library
has mobile hotspots for patrons!
GPL has devices to lend to CWMARS library cardholders who are in good standing and are at least 18 years of age.
Hotspots must be picked up and returned to the Information Services desk at the library and may not be checked out again for at least a 24-hour period. Each device circulates for one week with an automatic renewal and supports up to ten mobile devices.
Mobile Beacon is the primary provider for the hotspots, which support 4G and LTE mobile networks, but not 5G.
Contact the Information Services desk at 413-772-1544 x5103
with any questions or for more information.
Mobile Hotspots, provided by The Greenfield Public Library,
are free and available to CWMARS cardholders aged 18 and over.
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New! Gale Digital Legal Resources
Now Available
Selling a house? Making a will? Signing a lease? The Greenfield Public Library now offers Gale Legalforms, an online digital resource, to help residents with basic legal needs.
Gale Legalforms offers Massachusetts-specific "attorney forms" – officially approved forms actually used by law firms. Many of the forms and documents are available in Word and Adobe format so you just need to simply fill in the blanks.
A library card is not required.
This service, provided by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and the Massachusetts Library System, is free and available to all Massachusetts residents
Seach GaleLegal Forms here now!
Gale LegalForms can also be accessed 24/7, on any device,
by visiting the library’s website.
Questions? Contact us at librarian@greenfieldpubliclibrary.org
or call us at (413) 772 -1544, option 6
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New Collection:
Zines at The Greenfield Public Library
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Greenfield Public Library is building a circulating zine collection for our new library. We want this collection to highlight local creators as much as possible, especially patrons of GPL!
If you have a zine you'd like to see displayed, read, and circulated throughout Central/Western Massachusetts, please use the form below to submit information about your work:
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT, AND THANKS!
For more information, please contact Jesse Cole,
Technical Services Coordinator, at
jesse.cole@greenfield-ma.gov or call (413) 772-1544 x5122
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