Yoga at the Library with Melanie Simard

Join us for yoga with Yoga Teacher Melanie Simard. Grab your mat and favorite book and join us in the Library Activity Room as we relax into gentle seated and reclined poses, and immerse ourselves in the book of your choice. Bring any props you may have (blocks, blank......More

Join us for yoga with Yoga Teacher Melanie Simard. Grab your mat and favorite book and join us in the Library Activity Room as we relax into gentle seated and reclined poses, and immerse ourselves in the book of your choice. Bring any props you may have (blocks, blanket). https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/yoga-at-the-library-with-melanie-simard-10/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

The History of the Flying Santa of the Lighthouses, 1929-2025, with Jeremy D'Entremont

The aerial visits of the Flying Santa to lighthouses and lifesaving stations have been a New England tradition since 1929. The program was inaugurated by Bill Wincapaw, a pioneering Maine pilot. Edward Rowe Snow, the popular New England historian and storyteller, beca......More

The aerial visits of the Flying Santa to lighthouses and lifesaving stations have been a New England tradition since 1929. The program was inaugurated by Bill Wincapaw, a pioneering Maine pilot. Edward Rowe Snow, the popular New England historian and storyteller, became involved in the 1930s and kept the flights going through 1980. Today, the nonprofit organization Friends of Flying Santa works to continue the flights as a gesture of gratitude to the men, women, and families of the Coast Guard who keep watch over our coastal waters. Thousands of hours are volunteered each year to ensure the success of the helicopter flights that include the children of Coast Guard families from Maine to New York. Jeremy D'Entremont is the historian of the U.S. Lighthouse Society and also the vice president of Friends of Flying Santa. In this presentation, Jeremy will relate the colorful history of the Flying Santa from 1929 to the present day.  ***REGISTER FOR THIS PROGRAM VIA ZOOM*** https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/the-history-of-the-flying-santa-of-the-lighthouses-1929-2025-with-jeremy-dentremont/

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Library Playtime!

Come climb, play, roll, and bounce at this free play morning at the library! This is a non-structured event, and not a storytime. For babies and toddlers crawling and older. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/library-playtime-7/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Mahjongg

Drop-in Mahjongg! All levels welcome! No sign-up necessary. Questions? Email Jean at: [email protected] https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/mahjongg-315/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Stitch Social

Drop in for some social stitching!  All fiber artists welcome! Got a new stitch you're trying to learn? A confusing pattern to interpret?  Or maybe you just want a friendly chat while working on your latest project? This  biweekly drop-in event is hosted by our resi......More

Drop in for some social stitching!  All fiber artists welcome! Got a new stitch you're trying to learn? A confusing pattern to interpret?  Or maybe you just want a friendly chat while working on your latest project? This  biweekly drop-in event is hosted by our resident crocheter, Charlene, and serves as a casual gathering for crafters looking to grow. Craft materials swap and instructional resources available to all who attend.   https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/stitch-social-10/

Topsfield Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

VIRTUAL: Art & World War II -- Hitler’s Cultural Ambitions and Nazi Theft

From his failed attempts as a painter to his grand plans to loot European masterworks, art played a central role in Hitler’s personal life and political strategies. Learn more about Nazi exhibitions of so-called “degenerate art,” theft from European churches, museums ......More

From his failed attempts as a painter to his grand plans to loot European masterworks, art played a central role in Hitler’s personal life and political strategies. Learn more about Nazi exhibitions of so-called “degenerate art,” theft from European churches, museums and private collections, as well as the challenge of restoring works to their rightful heirs today. Led by art historian Jane Oneail, owner of Culturally Curious. RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email within 48 hours of the program. REGISTER DIRECTLY THROUGH ZOOM, HERE! https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-art-world-war-ii-hitler-s-cultural-ambitions-and-nazi-theft/

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Artist Reception - Heidi Caswell Zander

Join us at the Topsfield Town Library on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 12-1:30pm for a reception with Artist Heidi Caswell Zander. See our blog post for the exhibition he......More

Join us at the Topsfield Town Library on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 12-1:30pm for a reception with Artist Heidi Caswell Zander. See our blog post for the exhibition here! Caswell Zander's work is on display in the library's Activity Room from October 1 - November 20, 2025. You may also recognize Caswell Zander's bold work Solitary Crossing, currently on loan to the Topsfield Town Library, located above the Circulation Desk. About the Artist: Heidi Caswell Zander work bares the imprint of growing up immersed in the artist culture of Cape Ann Massachusetts. As a youth summer days were spent in adult workshops absorbing the enthusiasm for capturing a cloud on 140 lb. watercolor paper, for being a link between natural wonder observed (on location) to its impression on a rectangle which would hang on a wall. She studied from 1972 forward with Betty Lou Schlemm and her teacher Edgar Whitney. From these foundations she went on to Rhode Island School of Design and lived in Rome during her senior year as a member of The European Honors Society. She holds a B.F.A in Painting and an M.A.T. , earned at R.I.S.D.. After graduating, 7 years were spent exhibiting and curating Art in Westchester County, New York where numerous awards and citations were earned. This was followed by a decade of exploring the arts as Art Department head in Berlin Germany. In 2000 Caswell Zander returned to her native island, opening Tidal Edge Gallery (Rockport) in 2005. She is the past President of The Rockport Art Association & Museum. Zander established the Creative Community group over 9 years ago to broaden accessibility to Art community through inclusive programs throughout the year. She is an active artist member of North Shore Art Association, Marblehead Art Association, Newburyport Art Association, and the National Association of Women Artists. Caswell Zander’s Art is noteworthy for its unique use of color, energy, and relation to Art History while also being of today. Her work is acclaimed and in collections throughout the United States and Europe. She is a painter, photographer and sculptor. More recent awards of note have been the Gudrun Sjoden International Artist Grant and the Hemphill Travel Grant. These led to projects in Southern England, 2017-2023, and exhibiting at The Flying Horse Annual Exhibit in 2023. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/artist-reception-heidi-caswell-zander/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Meditation 101 with Carla Villa

Discover the art of mindfulness in this introductory meditation class, designed for those curious about quieting the chatter of the “monkey mind.” Together, we’ll explore how to see things as they truly are in the present moment, finding peace beyond our racing though......More

Discover the art of mindfulness in this introductory meditation class, designed for those curious about quieting the chatter of the “monkey mind.” Together, we’ll explore how to see things as they truly are in the present moment, finding peace beyond our racing thoughts. Through guided practice and gentle exploration, you’ll cultivate a sense of calm, clarity, and connection to yourself and the world around you. No prior meditation experience is needed—just an open mind and a willingness to be curious. Join us as we step into what Ram Dass refers to as “the quiet space behind your own mind”. Bring your favorite meditation cushion, sturdy blanket to sit on, or use our chairs. RSVP appreciated. Drop-ins welcome. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/meditation-101-with-carla-villa-2/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Holiday Gift Collection Drive Benefitting Community Giving Tree

The Topsfield Town Library is proud to host a Holiday Gift Collection Drive November 12- December 6, 2025 to benefit the Community Giving Tree! In the lead-up to another holiday season, consider donating the following items: brand new clothing, brand new winter coats......More

The Topsfield Town Library is proud to host a Holiday Gift Collection Drive November 12- December 6, 2025 to benefit the Community Giving Tree! In the lead-up to another holiday season, consider donating the following items: brand new clothing, brand new winter coats, pajamas, sweaters, sweatshirts, gift cards (Kohls, Amazon, Walmart, Old Navy) and small toys for children ages 2T - Teen (18yrs).  Drop the items off in the collection bin, located in the library's vestibule during our hours of operation. Community Giving Tree (a 501(c)(3) non-profit) operates from two sites, one in Boxford and the other in the heart of Lawrence. Every year, 12,500 children from northeastern Massachusetts are provided with the basic necessities they need to grow and thrive. Their annual Holiday Gift Collection seeks to keep local children safe and warm this holiday season. View their website to see the entire list of agencies supported by Community Giving Tree. The 2024 Holiday Gift Collection Drive allowed Community Giving Tree's registered social workers and agency partners to come in and gather gifts (at no cost) to in turn provide to their families in need for the holiday season. Last year, Community Giving Tree, through drives throughout the area, collected and distributed over 8,000 gifts for nearly 2,800 children last holiday season.  You can also order items directly supporting Community Giving Tree from Amazon! View the Community Giving Tree’s Amazon Wishlist here. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/holiday-gift-collection-drive-benefitting-community-giving-tree-3/

Library grounds Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Friends of the Topsfield Library Monthly Meeting

Monthly meeting of the Friends of the Topsfield Library. The meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month (no meetings in July or August) in the Topsfield Room on the second floor of the library. Meeting starts at 10am. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetin......More

Monthly meeting of the Friends of the Topsfield Library. The meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month (no meetings in July or August) in the Topsfield Room on the second floor of the library. Meeting starts at 10am. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/friends-of-the-topsfield-library-monthly-meeting-14/

Topsfield Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

CFCE of the North Shore -- Music and Movement Playgroup

Coordinated Family Community Engagement (CFCE) manages and runs this fun event! Music and movement are important at every stage of a child’s development and can be brought together in this fun, interactive program. CFCE's programs include music with activities to furt......More

Coordinated Family Community Engagement (CFCE) manages and runs this fun event! Music and movement are important at every stage of a child’s development and can be brought together in this fun, interactive program. CFCE's programs include music with activities to further refine children's fine and gross motor skills. Registration is required each session due to limited capacity & safety. Please arrive on time. Your space may be given away if there are people waiting and you are late. Cancel your registration if you are not attending; your space will be given away to people on the wait list, as we want to accommodate as many as possible. For more information on CFCE of the North Shore, visit https://www.cfceofthenorthshore.com/ Funded by the Coordinated Family and Community Engagement grant from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care awarded to Peabody Public Schools to serve families from Beverly, Boxford, Danvers, Marblehead, Middleton, Peabody, Salem, Swampscott, and Topsfield. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/cfce-of-the-north-shore-music-and-movement-playgroup-45/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Virtual - "She Kills" with True Crime Author Skip Hollandsworth

Join the Topsfield Town Library, in partnership with other libraries across the state, as we host author and journalist, Skip Hollandsworth, as he discusses "......More

Join the Topsfield Town Library, in partnership with other libraries across the state, as we host author and journalist, Skip Hollandsworth, as he discusses "She Kills: The Murderous Socialite, the Cross-Dressing Bank Robber, and Other True Crime Tales", a jaw-dropping, addictively readable compendium of women whose often sensational crimes and circumstances put them on the wrong side of the law. ***REGISTER FOR THIS PROGRAM VIA ZOOM*** About the book: Curated by Hollandsworth, She Kills brings together beloved stories that focus in particular on female perpetrators—from the high schooler who was so desperate to move back in with Mom that she had no choice but to poison her father’s refried beans, to the wallflower nurse in small-town Texas who one day started killing off her patients, to the lovelorn dental hygienist who ordered a hit on her rival. These are expertly crafted tales that will stop readers in their tracks and leave them gasping with shock and pleasure. Each story is updated by Hollandsworth, who provides background on his original storytelling and new information on the perpetrators and victims, where available. She Kills is illustrated with 44 black-and-white photos throughout.  About Skip: Skip Hollandsworth has been covering true crime since long before the podcasts, networks, and television shows discovered it. Texas born and bred, the revered journalist joined Texas Monthly in 1989, and the stories he has written over three-plus decades have helped define a locale and a culture. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-she-kills-with-true-crime-author-skip-hollandsworth/

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VIRTUAL: Allergy Friendly Thanksgiving

Are you hosting Thanksgiving this year and want to make sure there is something for everyone at your table? It can be hard to accommodate different diets for a large gathering, especially when you don't typically have to worry about food allergens (like gluten in soy ......More

Are you hosting Thanksgiving this year and want to make sure there is something for everyone at your table? It can be hard to accommodate different diets for a large gathering, especially when you don't typically have to worry about food allergens (like gluten in soy sauce!). Join Chef Kelcy for a warm and welcoming virtual cooking class designed to make Thanksgiving inclusive and delicious for everyone at the table. In this class, we’ll explore how to create a scrumptious holiday meal that celebrates flavor while accommodating common dietary restrictions. Chef Kelcy will guide you step-by-step through three festive dishes: Fall Harvest Slaw – a crisp, colorful salad with seasonal produce and a light maple vinaigrette. Vegan & Gluten-Free Apple and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash – a hearty, beautiful main dish that’s as festive as it is tasty. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Custard – a creamy, cozy dessert with all the classic fall spices. Whether you’re hosting loved ones with allergies or simply want to expand your holiday menu with fresh, crowd-pleasing recipes, this class will leave you inspired and prepared for a joyful Thanksgiving feast. Register to attend and receive the recipe packet! Recipes will be sent out 24 hours prior to the program for anyone who would like to cook along! Sign up directly through Zoom, HERE! https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-allergy-friendly-thanksgiving/

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Select Board Community Listening Session

From 10:00-11AM, one to two Select Board members will be at the Town Library in an open forum format and give residents a chance to share thoughts and ideas and to ask any questions. There is no set agenda, just a chance to communicate with your elected Town official......More

From 10:00-11AM, one to two Select Board members will be at the Town Library in an open forum format and give residents a chance to share thoughts and ideas and to ask any questions. There is no set agenda, just a chance to communicate with your elected Town officials. No appointment necessary. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/select-board-community-listening-session-35/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Holiday Gift Collection Drive Benefitting Community Giving Tree

The Topsfield Town Library is proud to host a Holiday Gift Collection Drive November 12- December 6, 2025 to benefit the Community Giving Tree! In the lead-up to another holiday season, consider donating the following items: brand new clothing, brand new winter coats......More

The Topsfield Town Library is proud to host a Holiday Gift Collection Drive November 12- December 6, 2025 to benefit the Community Giving Tree! In the lead-up to another holiday season, consider donating the following items: brand new clothing, brand new winter coats, pajamas, sweaters, sweatshirts, gift cards (Kohls, Amazon, Walmart, Old Navy) and small toys for children ages 2T - Teen (18yrs).  Drop the items off in the collection bin, located in the library's vestibule during our hours of operation. Community Giving Tree (a 501(c)(3) non-profit) operates from two sites, one in Boxford and the other in the heart of Lawrence. Every year, 12,500 children from northeastern Massachusetts are provided with the basic necessities they need to grow and thrive. Their annual Holiday Gift Collection seeks to keep local children safe and warm this holiday season. View their website to see the entire list of agencies supported by Community Giving Tree. The 2024 Holiday Gift Collection Drive allowed Community Giving Tree's registered social workers and agency partners to come in and gather gifts (at no cost) to in turn provide to their families in need for the holiday season. Last year, Community Giving Tree, through drives throughout the area, collected and distributed over 8,000 gifts for nearly 2,800 children last holiday season.  You can also order items directly supporting Community Giving Tree from Amazon! View the Community Giving Tree’s Amazon Wishlist here. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/holiday-gift-collection-drive-benefitting-community-giving-tree-4/

Library grounds Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

VIRTUAL: Exploring Our National Parks

Embark on an unforgettable trip through America's pristine wilderness. Professional traveler Chris McCormack will share the beauty, adventure, and cost-saving tips for exploring our most breathtaking national parks in the United States. His stories, accompanied with h......More

Embark on an unforgettable trip through America's pristine wilderness. Professional traveler Chris McCormack will share the beauty, adventure, and cost-saving tips for exploring our most breathtaking national parks in the United States. His stories, accompanied with his photos, will leave you amazed. RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email within 48 hours of the program. REGISTER DIRECTLY THROUGH ZOOM, HERE! https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-exploring-our-national-parks/

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Mahjongg

Drop-in Mahjongg! All levels welcome! No sign-up necessary. Questions? Email Jean at: [email protected] https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/mahjongg-317/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

Stitch Social

Drop in for some social stitching!  All fiber artists welcome! Got a new stitch you're trying to learn? A confusing pattern to interpret?  Or maybe you just want a friendly chat while working on your latest project? This  biweekly drop-in event is hosted by our resi......More

Drop in for some social stitching!  All fiber artists welcome! Got a new stitch you're trying to learn? A confusing pattern to interpret?  Or maybe you just want a friendly chat while working on your latest project? This  biweekly drop-in event is hosted by our resident crocheter, Charlene, and serves as a casual gathering for crafters looking to grow. Craft materials swap and instructional resources available to all who attend.   https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/stitch-social-11/

Topsfield Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

BOLT Meeting

November BOLT Meeting https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/bolt-meeting-35/

Activity Room Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield, MA, 01983

VIRTUAL: Great American Unsung Heroes Who Changed The Course Of History -- George Marshall

Retired Massachusetts Superior Court Justice Dennis Curran is excited to continue his "Great American Unsung Heroes Who Changed The Course Of History" series. This month, learn about General George Marshall, an American statesman and soldier who is one of the most un......More

Retired Massachusetts Superior Court Justice Dennis Curran is excited to continue his "Great American Unsung Heroes Who Changed The Course Of History" series. This month, learn about General George Marshall, an American statesman and soldier who is one of the most underappreciated leaders in American history, and certainly of the 20th century. Marshall was the organizer of victory and the architect of peace during and following World War II. He won the war - and won the peace. His humility, honesty, integrity and selfless service stand as shining examples of inspirational (and yet under-appreciated) leadership; he did not seek fame. Roosevelt found him indispensable as his Army Commander; Winston Churchill called him “the true architect of victory” in the War, and incredibly, Stalin claimed he would personally trust his life to Marshall. As Secretary of State, he gave his name to the Marshal Plan, saving millions of Europeans from starvation and abject poverty while rebuilding the allied countries of Europe. Few Americans in the 20th century have left a greater legacy to world peace than George C. Marshall, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Dennis J. Curran served as a Massachusetts judge for 16 years, including in the Superior Court from 2006 to 2018. Prior to his time on the bench, Curran worked as an Assistant District Attorney and First Assistant Legal Counsel to the Governor, in addition to work in private practice. A graduate of Boston Latin School, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Virginia School of Law, Curran has taught law at Tufts University, Roger Williams University School of Law, and Brown University. REGISTER DIRECTLY THROUGH ZOOM, HERE! RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email within 48 hours of the program. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-great-american-unsung-heroes-who-changed-the-course-of-history-george-marshall/

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VIRTUAL: Bernini As A Sculptor Of The Baroque Era

Bernini is said to have defined the drama and movement of Baroque sculpture of 17th-century Italy and beyond. His skill in unifying sculpture, architecture, and painting in the same setting is unsurpassed. Explore Bernini’s earliest successes in the statues of David a......More

Bernini is said to have defined the drama and movement of Baroque sculpture of 17th-century Italy and beyond. His skill in unifying sculpture, architecture, and painting in the same setting is unsurpassed. Explore Bernini’s earliest successes in the statues of David and Apollo and Daphne, which set the tone for a new exuberance in sculpture. Examine the unity of sculpture and architecture in his Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, the richness of his work on St. Peter’s, and the vividness of numerous portrait busts executed throughout his long career. Led by art historian Martha Chiarchiaro, owner of Seeing History. REGISTER DIRECTLY THROUGH ZOOM, HERE! RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email within 48 hours of the program. https://topsfieldlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-bernini-as-a-sculptor-of-the-baroque-era/

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