Library Hours

Acton Memorial Library

Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. 

Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.


West Acton Citizens' Library

Tuesday - Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

CLOSED Monday, Friday and Sunday



Upcoming Closures

Monday, October 13

Director's Corner

Greetings!


Acton Memorial Library will be closed on Monday, October 13, for Columbus Day. The library will reopen at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, October 14.


Join the Acton Memorial Library Book Discussion Group on Tuesday, October 21, for their monthly meeting! All are welcome, and no registration is required. Copies of this month's book, Consilience by Edward O. Wilson, are available at the Circulation Desk.


Join us on Saturday, October 11, and Sunday, October 12, for the 3rd Annual Friends of the Acton Libraries Apple Pie Contest! Pie judging is on Saturday, and all are welcome to join us on Sunday to celebrate local bakers. Apple pie will be served!


The Friends of Acton Libraries Book Sale is on Saturday, October 25, and Sunday, October 26. Stop by for great deals on gently used books for all ages and interests!


Also this month, be sure to take a look at the new art exhibition in the Meeting Room Gallery. Ancient Light, photography by Marsha Wilcox, will be on display during the month of October. More information is available on the library's Art Exhibitions page.


Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request to library@actonma.gov. For programs taking place at the West Acton Citizens' Library, please send requests to WACL@actonma.gov. Please note that the West Acton Citizens' Library has limited accessibility. More accessible programs are offered at the Acton Memorial Library.



Please remember to check our online calendar and follow the libraries on social media for updates.

 

If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at library@actonma.gov.

Adult Programs 

English at Large Beginner English Class

Mondays and Wednesdays

10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

 

Sign up for a free Beginner English class at Acton Memorial Library! This 90-minute class for Complete Beginners meets twice a week from September to December. You will learn basic English speaking skills to talk about yourself, family, home, community, as well as time, money, shopping, and weather.


The class is free, but registration is required. Sign up on the English at Large website here.



English at Large Conversation Class

Mondays

6:15 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.


Looking to practice your English speaking skills this spring? Join a free conversation group with English At Large to build your skills and confidence speaking English in a group setting with the support of trained facilitators.


English At Large conversation groups are for intermediate to advanced adult English language learners to practice speaking and listening for 90 minutes once per week. Join a group of 10-12 learners and 2 facilitators to discuss topics including American culture and holidays, idioms, and daily life situations.


The class is free, but registration is required. Sign up on the English at Large website here.


Adult Writing Group

Thursday, October 2

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


Writing Club is a free group for prose, poetry and non-fiction writers to come together, connect, share and create in a welcoming environment. Join the conversation, work on optional weekly prompts or use the time to work on an existing project that your passionate about. All writing levels welcome!


Optional Prompt: Describe a character, object or location in 3 paragraphs. Then strip it down to one paragraph, then three sentences and finally one sentence.


Register here


Mediation Series - Remaining Stable in Challenging Times

Monday, October 6

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


Claiming that we are living in challenging times is an understatement! It Is essential to maintain stability, regardless of external circumstances,for our overall well-being.


This meditation series explores practical ways to remain centered and resilient. Discover how to create powerful layers of inner protection and experience a deep sense of stability from within.


Conducted by Brahma Kumaris Meditation Center, Watertown, MA


Register here

Teaching Tech - Libby

Tuesday, October 7

5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.


Join us each month for Teaching Tech, a free, hands-on series where we explore a new technology topic in an approachable, beginner-friendly way. From apps to devices to digital tools, each session focuses on building your confidence and skills.


This month’s topic: Libby


No experience necessary—just bring your questions and curiosity!


Please bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop if you have one. If you don't have a laptop, one can be supplied for you.


Register here


Basics of Investing with CFA Society Boston

Wednesday, October 8

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



New to investing? This beginner-friendly session offers a broad overview of how investing works and why it matters. Learn the difference between saving and investing, understand key terms, and explore the basics of stocks, bonds, and building a simple portfolio. Walk away with the knowledge you need to take your first steps toward smart investing.


Register here


Pine Hawk: Discover Ancient Nipmuc Mishoonash at Lake Quinsigamond

Thursday, October 9

7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.


Join Cheryl Stedtler of Project Mishoon for an immersive journey into underwater archaeology, Indigenous heritage, and 1640s canoe discoveries that are reshaping New England’s historical narrative. History emerges from beneath the surface.


Register here


Yarn & Needle Club

Tuesday, October 14

3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Knitters, crocheters, embroiderers, and sewers, join the library to work on your project and socialize! We meet the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month.

Halloween Wreath Making

Wednesday, October 15

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


Join us for Halloween Wreath Making!


Register here


Teen Programs

Teen Catching Fire Book Club

Mondays

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.


FOR TEENS!!!


Join Teen Librarian, Chris, for a deep dive into Catching Fire!! We'll read 2 chapters each week and talk about the nuance and foreshadowing for the rest of the book and the series beyond!! You do not have to have read the book already to join in and you don't have to read anything between sessions! Just come and enjoy talking about characters and stories that continue to resonate today.


Suitable for teens in grades 7 through 12. 


Register here


Work Smarter for Teens

Tuesdays

3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.


FOR TEENS!!!


Finding yourself getting overwhelmed with homework deadlines and upcoming exams? This workshop will help you organize your information and learn tips and tricks to make managing academics less stressful and more productive! 30 minute sessions will happen weekly over the seven week period. 


Suitable for students grades 7 through 12. 


Register here


No School Game Day for Teens

Thursday, October 2

1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.


FOR TEENS!!!


Spend your day off from school playing board and Switch games at the library! Play ours or bring your own.


Suitable for teens in grades 7 through 12


Teen Switch Night

Tuesday, October 7

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


FOR TEENS!!


Take a break from your piles of homework and spend some time eating snacks and playing games with your friends. We'll have a new multiplayer game each month and snacks and drinks to fuel your brain. Suitable for teens in grades 7 through 12. 


Funded by the Friends of Acton Libraries


Teen Photography Club

Wednesday, October 8

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.


FOR TEENS!!!


Want to up your selfie game and learn how to take the best photos for Instagram or for sharing with your friends? Come to Photography Club! We'll share tips and tricks for composing the perfect photo and editing it afterwards. Each month we'll have a prompt to get your creative juices flowing!


Prompt: Take a photo of something blue


Suitable for teens in grades 7 through 12.


Haunted Library Track Mixing

Wednesday, October 8

4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.


FOR TEENS!!!


We need spooky music for our Haunted Stacks portion of the Haunted Library! Come to this event and help develop the sound effects and music as we blend them all together into one terrifying track! Then bring your friends to the Haunted Library on October 30th and see your sounds in full force along with the decorations and haunt actors!! Suitable for teens in 5th through 12th grades. 


Funded by the Friends of the Acton Libraries


Register here



Basics of Investing with CFA Society Boston

Wednesday, October 8

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



New to investing? This beginner-friendly session offers a broad overview of how investing works and why it matters. Learn the difference between saving and investing, understand key terms, and explore the basics of stocks, bonds, and building a simple portfolio. Walk away with the knowledge you need to take your first steps toward smart investing.


Register here


Haunted Library Costume Making

Wednesday, October 15

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


FOR TEENS!!!!


Panicking about last minute costume needs? We'll help you put the finishing touches on! Bring your costume and ideas and we'll have the machines and expertise to help you look amazing for the Haunted Library Costume Contest. Suitable for teens in grades 5 through 12. 


Register here

Special Children's Programs

Indian Gond Art Workshop with Sunanda Sahay

Thursday, October 2

3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.


Step into the magical world of Gond art — a colorful and fun painting style from the tribes of Central India! In this exciting workshop, we will explore how to create animals, trees, and nature-inspired designs using bright colors, dots, and patterns. Guided by the Acton artist Sunanda Sahay, we will explore their creativity while learning about a beautiful folk art tradition. No art experience needed — just imagination and a love for colors!


Register here


Sensory Storytime

Friday, October 3

11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

 

A storytime featuring quiet books, activities, and tactile toys.


Read to Samantha

Saturday, October 4

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


Practice your reading skills by reading to Samantha, a certified therapy golden retriever. 


One child per 15 minute slot, please.


Register here



Storytime at the Arboretum - Bring Your Lunch!

Monday, October 6

12:00 p.m. - 12:30 p.m.

 

Bring your lunch and enjoy storytime at the Arboretum. See photo for location.


Event may be cancelled due to poor weather. Check our online calendar to confirm.


Book Club for 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade

Tuesday, October 7

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

 

Join us for our October book discussion followed by an activity and snacks!


This month, we're reading Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee.


Pick up a copy of the book at the circulation desk.


Registration is not required, but appreciated! Questions? Email Acton Memorial Library’s Children’s Department at childrens@acton-ma.gov


Register here


Goats and Giggles

Wednesday, October 8

3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 

Goats & Giggles. This is your chance for a hands-on playtime with goats with plenty of time for goat cuddles and photo ops! Mix and mingle with friendly Nigerian Dwarf Fainting Goatsfrom Chip-in Farm in Bedford. Great for all ages!


Because this is an outdoor event, scheduling may be affected by weather.


Register here


Haunted Library Track Mixing

Wednesday, October 8

4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.


We need spooky music for our Haunted Stacks portion of the Haunted Library! Come to this event and help develop the sound effects and music as we blend them all together into one terrifying track! Then bring your friends to the Haunted Library on October 30th and see your sounds in full force along with the decorations and haunt actors!! Suitable for teens in 5th through 12th grades. 


Funded by the Friends of the Acton Libraries


Register here


Tween Nintendo Switch Club

Thursday, October 9

4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.


FOR TWEENS IN GRADES 5 THROUGH 8!!!


Come to Nintendo Switch Club! Every month, we will play a new Switch game and talk about what we like and don't like. Switch console and game provided.


Register here


Hero Kids Role-Playing Game

Saturday, October 11

10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.


Hero Kids is a role-playing game like Dungeons & Dragons, but the rules have been simplified and the violence has been toned down for children ages 6+.


It has a simple combat and adventuring system which avoids the complex math of full-blown systems. The combat and adventuring mechanics in Hero Kids are based on six-sided dice, so you don't need to find any unusual dice to play!


Register here




Haunted Library Costume Making

Wednesday, October 15

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


Panicking about last minute costume needs? We'll help you put the finishing touches on! Bring your costume and ideas and we'll have the machines and expertise to help you look amazing for the Haunted Library Costume Contest. Suitable for teens in grades 5 through 12. 


Register here

Recurring Children's Programs 

Tummy Time and Socialize

Mondays

9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

 

This free-flow, drop-in program offers a safe and cozy space with foam mats, developmentally appropriate toys, and books. Connect with other new parents while your little ones enjoy some quality playtime. Designed for babies who aren't yet walking, but all are welcome!



Baby/Toddler Storytime with Ms. Amy!

Tuesdays 

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. 


Join Ms. Amy and her friends for Baby/Toddler Storytime! We'll read stories, sing songs, and move around. Come ready to participate with your little one! There will be time after the program for caregivers and children to play and socialize.


Questions? Email Acton Memorial Library’s Children’s Department at childrens@acton-ma.gov


Read with Ms. Rachel!

Wednesdays

9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

 

Join Ms. Rachel for a morning full of stories, singing, shakers, and scarves! Geared towards ages 3-6, but all are welcome!


Questions? Email Acton Memorial Library’s Children’s Department at childrens@acton-ma.gov


Pre-K to 1st Grade Crafting

Fridays

10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

 

A craft program especially for Pre-Kindergarten to 1st grade children.



Chess Club

Saturdays

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

 

Michael Sidorov, a high school student at Acton-Boxborough, will help you to improve your game in this chess workshop. You'll also have the chance to play against other students. Grades 1-6.


West Acton Citizens' Library Programs

Preschool Storytime at West Acton Citizens' Library!

Thursdays

10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.


Preschool Storytime at the West Acton Citizens' Library. All are welcome!



Teaching Tech - Libby at West Acton Citizens' Library

Tuesday, October 7

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.


Join us each month for Teaching Tech, a free, hands-on series where we explore a new technology topic in an approachable, beginner-friendly way. From apps to devices to digital tools, each session focuses on building your confidence and skills.


This month’s topic: Libby


No experience necessary—just bring your questions and curiosity!


Please bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop if you have one. If you don't have a laptop, one can be supplied for you.


Register here


Tech Help at West Acton Citizens' Library

Wednesday, October 8

1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.


Sign up for a 15-minute 1:1 tech help session.


Please bring your device and any questions you might have!


Registration is required! 


Register here



West Acton Citizens' Library Book Discussion Group

Wednesday, October 8

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.


JJoin your fellow community members at the West Acton Citizens' Library for a lively book discussion led by our Librarians. Limited copies of the book in multiple formats will be available at the West Acton branch. First come, first serve. All are welcome!


This month's book is The Editor by Steven Rowley


Register here


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