Baby Bookworms

Join Sue Shepard for 30 minutes of stories and songs that promote early literacy. Designed for children ages birth-18 months. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver and alternate care for siblings is encouraged. No registration needed. Please contact the Childre......More

Join Sue Shepard for 30 minutes of stories and songs that promote early literacy. Designed for children ages birth-18 months. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver and alternate care for siblings is encouraged. No registration needed. Please contact the Children's Room with questions: 978-468-5577 X13 or [email protected]. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/baby-bookworms-154/

Large Meeting Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Patton Homestead Book Club - Haven by Emma Donoghue

Our Patton Homestead Book Club will meet at the Hamilton Wenham Library while Town Hall is under renovation. We will be discussing: Haven by Emma Donoghue Find hardcover, large print or book on CD in the MVLC catalog, or check Overdrive for downloadable e-book and e......More

Our Patton Homestead Book Club will meet at the Hamilton Wenham Library while Town Hall is under renovation. We will be discussing: Haven by Emma Donoghue Find hardcover, large print or book on CD in the MVLC catalog, or check Overdrive for downloadable e-book and e-audio. There might be a wait list. You can also search the Overdrive collections for other Massachusetts library networks here. We will meet the first Tuesday of the month at the Hamilton Wenham Library in the Local History Room. We will meet from 3pm to 4pm. All are welcome!  https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/patton-homestead-book-club-haven-by-emma-donoghue/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

PAWS to Read: Read to Keeva

The Therapy Dog is In! Drop by starting at 3:30pm to get some one-on-one time with Keeva and her trainer, Ms. Fleming. Keeva provides a calm, welcoming space for emerging readers to practice their read-aloud skills. Bring a book from home or pick one out at the librar......More

The Therapy Dog is In! Drop by starting at 3:30pm to get some one-on-one time with Keeva and her trainer, Ms. Fleming. Keeva provides a calm, welcoming space for emerging readers to practice their read-aloud skills. Bring a book from home or pick one out at the library - Keeva loves all stories! Open to readers in grades K-3. No registration needed; arrive early to guarantee a spot & sign-in when you arrive. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/paws-to-read-read-to-keeva-36/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Music & Movement Story Time

Join Lisa Davis for this story time that incorporates singing songs, reading books, using sign language and gestures to encourage language comprehension and expression. This program is for children ages 18 months to 36 months and their caregiver and will be held on We......More

Join Lisa Davis for this story time that incorporates singing songs, reading books, using sign language and gestures to encourage language comprehension and expression. This program is for children ages 18 months to 36 months and their caregiver and will be held on Wednesdays from APR 30 - JUN 18, from 10:15 - 11:15am. Music & Movement Story Time is offered by Northeast Arc Early Intervention - Cape Ann, in partnership with the Hamilton-Wenham Library. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Space is limited. To register, please visit https://eicapeanngroups.corsizio.com/ https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/music-movement-story-time-99/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

All Write Now: Generative Writing Group

Join us for a meeting of the library's writing group!  Using the format of a generative workshop, this writing group offers prompts, writing time, support, and resources to hone your craft. At the end of each session, participants will be invited to share their work,......More

Join us for a meeting of the library's writing group!  Using the format of a generative workshop, this writing group offers prompts, writing time, support, and resources to hone your craft. At the end of each session, participants will be invited to share their work, if desired.  Writers in all genres are welcome. Drop in to write along!  Questions? Please contact Adult Services Librarian, Jessica Furtado: [email protected] https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/all-write-now-generative-writing-group-28/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Process Art Workshop

Let's get creative and have some fun! Join Ms. Eva of Early Childhood Partners for a themed story and activities that practice process art methods. The Process Art Workshop is designed for children ages 2 - 6 years old and their adult. Older children are welcome. This......More

Let's get creative and have some fun! Join Ms. Eva of Early Childhood Partners for a themed story and activities that practice process art methods. The Process Art Workshop is designed for children ages 2 - 6 years old and their adult. Older children are welcome. This class will be held on Wednesdays from 6:00 - 7:00pm from SEPT 18 - DEC 11 (no group on 10/2 & 11/27). Process Art Workshop will take place in the Children's Program Room.  No registration needed. Please contact the Children's Room with questions: 978-468-5577 X613 or [email protected]. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/process-art-workshop-115/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Wednesday Night Book Club - West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge

 West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutlege   A novel inspired by the incredible true story of two giraffes who made headlines and won the hearts of Depression-era America. Join the library's Head of Circulation and Reader Services, Dede McManus  and others to discuss this ......More

 West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutlege   A novel inspired by the incredible true story of two giraffes who made headlines and won the hearts of Depression-era America. Join the library's Head of Circulation and Reader Services, Dede McManus  and others to discuss this month's book selection! Title TBD; stay tuned for details. Questions? Contact Dede: [email protected] https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/wednesday-night-book-club-6/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Bouncing Babies

We'll start our morning with a 30-minute walk outside together (weather permitting) with our little ones in strollers, slings, or carriers. Then, join Eileen Livermore, RN, IBCLC, in the library to play, make new friends, and discuss lactation/bottle feeding & infant ......More

We'll start our morning with a 30-minute walk outside together (weather permitting) with our little ones in strollers, slings, or carriers. Then, join Eileen Livermore, RN, IBCLC, in the library to play, make new friends, and discuss lactation/bottle feeding & infant care. This program is designed for infants, ages birth through 12 months, with a caregiver.  Registration requested at Early Childhood Partners REGISTER HERE. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/bouncing-babies-45/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

HWPL Trustees Meeting

The trustees of the Library meet monthly to discuss policy issues and governance of the Library. This is an elected board with seats from both Hamilton and Wenham, and two seats for 'at large' nominees. For more information contact Library Director, Kim Butler kbutler......More

The trustees of the Library meet monthly to discuss policy issues and governance of the Library. This is an elected board with seats from both Hamilton and Wenham, and two seats for 'at large' nominees. For more information contact Library Director, Kim Butler [email protected] https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/hwpl-trustees-meeting-35/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Community Read Event: The Gilded World of Isabella Stewart Gardner

The life of Boston’s arts patroness typifies the lives of many of the wealthy and cultured Americans who lived during the Gilded Age of American history. We will explore the details of Isabella Stewart Gardner’s life, friends, travels and collections. She broke all ki......More

The life of Boston’s arts patroness typifies the lives of many of the wealthy and cultured Americans who lived during the Gilded Age of American history. We will explore the details of Isabella Stewart Gardner’s life, friends, travels and collections. She broke all kinds of rules while setting up her museum but perhaps we can understand this when we read her personal motto “It is my pleasure.” She arranged things the way she wanted with relationships between objects that may at first escape us. What is left for us is to marvel at the space she created and filled with beautiful things. This presentation is led by art historian Mary Woodward, who serves as a guide at several Historic New England properties, and has over 40 years of experience in museums. This program is open to all; no registration required. This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Hamilton-Wenham Public Library. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/the-gilded-world-of-isabella-stewart-gardner/

Large Meeting Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Community Read Event: Egypt à la Isabella (Children's)

Explore, Engrave, Create! Isabella Stewart Gardner traveled to Egypt to add to her ever-growing collection of art. Join art educator, Tif Farmakis-Day as you design and engrave a copper bookmark using Egyptian-inspired designs. Sponsored by the Friends of the Hamilt......More

Explore, Engrave, Create! Isabella Stewart Gardner traveled to Egypt to add to her ever-growing collection of art. Join art educator, Tif Farmakis-Day as you design and engrave a copper bookmark using Egyptian-inspired designs. Sponsored by the Friends of the Hamilton-Wenham Library. There will be two age-based sessions offered on a first come, first allowed basis. In person registration will begin one hour prior to the event. Children 5 - 7 years will create from 11 am – noon Children 8 - 12 years will create from 1 - 2:30 pm https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/community-read-event-egypt-la-isabella/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Musical Mondays

Preschool teacher and musician Ms. Katie of Early Childhood Partners leads this fun, early literacy music and movement story time for children ages 0-6 and their adult. REGISTER FOR THIS PROGRAM AT ......More

Preschool teacher and musician Ms. Katie of Early Childhood Partners leads this fun, early literacy music and movement story time for children ages 0-6 and their adult. REGISTER FOR THIS PROGRAM AT EARLY CHILDHOOD PARTNERS https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/musical-mondays-46/

Large Meeting Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Friends Book Donation Day

PLEASE give us your BOOKS and DVDs in good condition to sell at our book sales (please note: the Friends are no longer accepting donations of music CD's). Please click here for complete donation guidelines. DONATIONS ARE ACCEPTED AT THE MAIN MEETING ROOM DOORS ONLY, ......More

PLEASE give us your BOOKS and DVDs in good condition to sell at our book sales (please note: the Friends are no longer accepting donations of music CD's). Please click here for complete donation guidelines. DONATIONS ARE ACCEPTED AT THE MAIN MEETING ROOM DOORS ONLY, BY A VOLUNTEER. PLEASE DO NOT bring donations through the Main Entrance to the Library and never leave donations outside the building. Donations are limited to 4 bags at a time. If you have a donation larger than 4 bags please email the Friends at [email protected] with "BOOK DONATION" in the subject heading and our Donation Coordinator will respond. Don't do email? Call the library and they will forward your telephone number to the correct volunteer. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/friends-book-donation-day-152/

Large Meeting Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

(Virtual) How to Experience Spring Bird Migration

Join Heather Wolf, author of Find More Birds: 111 Surprising Ways to Spot Birds Wherever You Are, as she shares tips for enjoying spring bird migration! Learn how to find more migrating birds and witness their fascinating behaviors, as well as cue into birds that will......More

Join Heather Wolf, author of Find More Birds: 111 Surprising Ways to Spot Birds Wherever You Are, as she shares tips for enjoying spring bird migration! Learn how to find more migrating birds and witness their fascinating behaviors, as well as cue into birds that will be breeding and raising young in your area. Dive into a fascinating conversation on the natural world! Registration is required via ZOOM. Please click here to sign up. This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email after the live program. About the Presenter: HEATHER WOLF is the author of Find More Birds and Birding at the Bridge. A Brooklyn-based birder, photographer, and educator, she works with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology as a web developer, teaches birding classes at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and gives walks and talks for various organizations in New York City and beyond. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ashland Public Library and is in collaboration with the Chelmsford, Groton, and Tewksbury Libraries and is in partnership with a multitude of MA & NH libraries.   https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-how-to-experience-spring-bird-migration/

Online - Registration is required. Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Essex Regional Social Worker Open Office Hours

Jessie Palm, Social Worker for the Eastern Essex Regional Public Health Coalition, will hold open office hours at the library every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. All are welcome to seek support, information or resource referrals in a confidential setting. No......More

Jessie Palm, Social Worker for the Eastern Essex Regional Public Health Coalition, will hold open office hours at the library every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. All are welcome to seek support, information or resource referrals in a confidential setting. No appointment necessary.  https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/essex-regional-social-worker-open-office-hours-55/

Phoenix Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Literary Luncheon: The Stranger in the Woods

Join us for this month's Literary Luncheon to discuss The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit by Michael Finkel. ......More

Join us for this month's Literary Luncheon to discuss The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit by Michael Finkel. Click here to request the book through the online catalog. You may also visit the library to pick up a copy while supplies last. No registration is required and new members are always welcome. Drop in! Book Summary:  A remarkable tale of survival and solitude--the true story of a man who lived alone in a tent in the Maine woods, never talking to another person and surviving by stealing supplies from nearby cabins for twenty-seven years. In 1986, twenty-year-old Christopher Knight left his home in Massachusetts, drove to Maine, and disappeared into the woods. He would not have a conversation with another human being until nearly three decades later when he was arrested for stealing food. Living in a tent even in winter, he had survived by his wits and courage, developing ingenious ways to store food and water, to avoid freezing to death. He broke into nearby cottages for food, clothes, reading material, and other provisions, taking only what he needed, but terrifying a community never able to solve the mysterious burglaries. Based on extensive interviews with Knight himself, this is a vividly detailed account of the why and how of his secluded life--as well as the challenges he has faced returning to the world. A riveting story of survival that asks fundamental questions about solitude, community, and what makes a good life, and a deeply moving portrait of a man who was determined to live his own way, and succeeded. Questions? Head of Circulation and Reader Services, Dede McManus at [email protected] https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/literary-luncheon-the-stranger-in-the-woods/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Baby Bookworms

Join Sue Shepard for 30 minutes of stories and songs that promote early literacy. Designed for children ages birth-18 months. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver and alternate care for siblings is encouraged. No registration needed. Please contact the Childre......More

Join Sue Shepard for 30 minutes of stories and songs that promote early literacy. Designed for children ages birth-18 months. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver and alternate care for siblings is encouraged. No registration needed. Please contact the Children's Room with questions: 978-468-5577 X13 or [email protected]. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/baby-bookworms-155/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Knitting Group

Grab your project bag and drop in for knit night! Enjoy conversation and creativity as you work alongside other yarn crafters. All are welcome; no registration required. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/knitting-group-52/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

FANTOS (Speculative Fiction Book Club)

FANTOS is our 2025 relaunch of the Speculative Fiction Book Club, meeting on the second Tuesday of each month.  Speculative Fiction is an umbrella term for stories in the broadly fantastic realms of Alternate History, Fantasy, Horror, Sci-Fi, Magical Realism, etc.  Ti......More

FANTOS is our 2025 relaunch of the Speculative Fiction Book Club, meeting on the second Tuesday of each month.  Speculative Fiction is an umbrella term for stories in the broadly fantastic realms of Alternate History, Fantasy, Horror, Sci-Fi, Magical Realism, etc.  Titles are chosen through a mediated nomination and voting process.  Meetings will be in the Phoenix Room unless we are just so cool that we need more space.  Contact Head of Reference Sarah Lauderdale ([email protected], 978-468-5577 x619) with any questions. Tues. April 8: Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson (384 pages; orig. pub. 2023) Tues. May 13: Station Eleven by Emily St. John (333 pages; orig. pub. 2014) Tues. June 10: The Mars House by Natasha Pulley (469 pages; orig. pub. 2024) Tues. Sept. 9: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury (194 pages; orig. pub. 1953) *FYI, there is also a graphic novel adaptation of this book. Tues. Oct. 14: Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro (303 pages; orig. pub. 2021) Thurs. Nov. 13: The Road by Cormac McCarthy (287 pages; orig. pub. 2006) *The library is closed Tues. Nov. 11 for Veterans Day; we will meet on Thursday instead. *FYI, there is also a graphic novel adaptation of this book. Tues. Dec. 9: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (288 pages; orig. pub. 2020) https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/fantos-speculative-fiction-book-club-5/

Phoenix Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Music & Movement Story Time

Join Lisa Davis for this story time that incorporates singing songs, reading books, using sign language and gestures to encourage language comprehension and expression. This program is for children ages 18 months to 36 months and their caregiver and will be held on We......More

Join Lisa Davis for this story time that incorporates singing songs, reading books, using sign language and gestures to encourage language comprehension and expression. This program is for children ages 18 months to 36 months and their caregiver and will be held on Wednesdays from APR 30 - JUN 18, from 10:15 - 11:15am. Music & Movement Story Time is offered by Northeast Arc Early Intervention - Cape Ann, in partnership with the Hamilton-Wenham Library. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Space is limited. To register, please visit https://eicapeanngroups.corsizio.com/ https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/music-movement-story-time-100/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

All Write Now: Generative Writing Group

Join us for a meeting of the library's writing group!  Using the format of a generative workshop, this writing group offers prompts, writing time, support, and resources to hone your craft. At the end of each session, participants will be invited to share their work,......More

Join us for a meeting of the library's writing group!  Using the format of a generative workshop, this writing group offers prompts, writing time, support, and resources to hone your craft. At the end of each session, participants will be invited to share their work, if desired.  Writers in all genres are welcome. Drop in to write along!  Questions? Please contact Adult Services Librarian, Jessica Furtado: [email protected] https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/all-write-now-generative-writing-group-37/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Community Reads Event - An Evening with Author Emily Franklin

On Wednesday, May 14 at 6:00pm the Library will host author Emily Franklin. She is the author of over twenty books including our Community Wide Reads featured title “The Lioness of Boston.” She went to school at Dartmouth where she earned her Master’s Degree in writin......More

On Wednesday, May 14 at 6:00pm the Library will host author Emily Franklin. She is the author of over twenty books including our Community Wide Reads featured title “The Lioness of Boston.” She went to school at Dartmouth where she earned her Master’s Degree in writing and media studies. In addition to two adult novels Emily has also written more than a dozen books for young adults.  Books will be available for sale and signing at 6:00pm and her talk will begin at 6:30; there will also be time at the end for book signing.  Drop in, no sign up required. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/community-reads/

Large Meeting Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Adult LEGO Club (Ages 18+)

Adults need a safe place to create! Join Lindley and Kati for Adult LEGO Club (ages 18+)! We have LEGO kits that can be put together, or you can always bring your own LEGOs to put together. Kati and Lindley will help you learn how to read LEGO instructions and assist......More

Adults need a safe place to create! Join Lindley and Kati for Adult LEGO Club (ages 18+)! We have LEGO kits that can be put together, or you can always bring your own LEGOs to put together. Kati and Lindley will help you learn how to read LEGO instructions and assist you in any way! Come and create with us, let us share our love of LEGO! No registration is required. No children, because adults need a safe place to create! https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/adult-lego-club-ages-18-13/

Local History Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Process Art Workshop

Let's get creative and have some fun! Join Ms. Eva of Early Childhood Partners for a themed story and activities that practice process art methods. The Process Art Workshop is designed for children ages 2 - 6 years old and their adult. Older children are welcome. This......More

Let's get creative and have some fun! Join Ms. Eva of Early Childhood Partners for a themed story and activities that practice process art methods. The Process Art Workshop is designed for children ages 2 - 6 years old and their adult. Older children are welcome. This class will be held on Wednesdays from 6:00 - 7:00pm from SEPT 18 - DEC 11 (no group on 10/2 & 11/27). Process Art Workshop will take place in the Children's Program Room.  No registration needed. Please contact the Children's Room with questions: 978-468-5577 X613 or [email protected]. https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/process-art-workshop-116/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982

Sensory Play

Join us for a morning of sensory exploration and fun at this self-directed play program. Sensory play encourages learning through exploration, curiosity, problem-solving and creativity.  Designed for children ages 2 years and up with a caregiver due to small pieces.  ......More

Join us for a morning of sensory exploration and fun at this self-directed play program. Sensory play encourages learning through exploration, curiosity, problem-solving and creativity.  Designed for children ages 2 years and up with a caregiver due to small pieces.  No registration needed, just drop in! https://hwlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/sensory-play-20/

Children's Programming Room Hamilton-Wenham Public Library, 14 Union Street, South Hamilton, MA, 01982