Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead

Come join Ms. Eva and Ms. Erin for some self-directed monthly STEAM fun! Develop fine and gross motor skills. Explore and experiment using age-appropriate Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Best for ages 3-5. Drop in.Adult participation required.Sponsored ......More

Come join Ms. Eva and Ms. Erin for some self-directed monthly STEAM fun! Develop fine and gross motor skills. Explore and experiment using age-appropriate Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Best for ages 3-5. Drop in.Adult participation required.Sponsored by The Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Tech Time (formerly Open Lab)

Tech Time: One-on-One Tech HelpGet personalized assistance with technology questions from a librarian or trained volunteer in Jackie’s Room.We can help with things like:Using emailDownloading library apps (like Libby or Hoopla)Navigating websitesSetting up your deviceAn......More

Tech Time: One-on-One Tech HelpGet personalized assistance with technology questions from a librarian or trained volunteer in Jackie’s Room.We can help with things like:Using emailDownloading library apps (like Libby or Hoopla)Navigating websitesSetting up your deviceAnd more!Each session is 30 minutes and begins promptly at the scheduled time — please arrive on time. Appointments are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance. Please sign up for an appointment here. For more information, contact Melanie Griffiths from Information Services at [email protected].

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Keeping Organized with Mail, Contacts, and Calendars on Your iPad or iPhone In-Person/Online

Take your iPhone or iPad skills to the next level! This class will walk you through the many features of the Mail, Contacts, and Calendar apps, with tips and tricks to help you stay organized and work more efficiently.Presented by Marjorie Wein. Questions? Email hschmid......More

Take your iPhone or iPad skills to the next level! This class will walk you through the many features of the Mail, Contacts, and Calendar apps, with tips and tricks to help you stay organized and work more efficiently.Presented by Marjorie Wein. Questions? Email [email protected] This workshop is generously sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library Foundation.

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Library Social Work Hours

Need social work support? Come meet with Joyce Saret, a Town of Wellesley social worker! She will be open for drop-in meetings in conference room 211 from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM

Main Library

Tumbling Toddlers: ages 1 - 2

Come tumble, jump, and spin at our indoor open gym. Join us for an hour of Tumbling Toddlers. The first half hour is reserved for toddlers ages 1 - 2..Adults need to stay and assist. Registration required for children only.Sponsored by The Friends of the Wellesley Free ......More

Come tumble, jump, and spin at our indoor open gym. Join us for an hour of Tumbling Toddlers. The first half hour is reserved for toddlers ages 1 - 2..Adults need to stay and assist. Registration required for children only.Sponsored by The Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries *Special Notes: Grown ups will need to be available to spot their child if needed. The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Tumbling Toddlers: ages 3-4

Come tumble, jump, and spin at our indoor open gym. Join us for an hour of Tumbling Toddlers. The second half hour is reserved for children ages 3 & 4.Adults need to stay and assist. Registration required for children only.Sponsored by The Friends of the Wellesley Free ......More

Come tumble, jump, and spin at our indoor open gym. Join us for an hour of Tumbling Toddlers. The second half hour is reserved for children ages 3 & 4.Adults need to stay and assist. Registration required for children only.Sponsored by The Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries*Special Notes: Grown ups will need to be available to spot their child if needed. The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

K-1 Beginner Book Club

Join us in person for grades K-1 book group! Perfect for first time book group goers and beginner readers. All reading levels welcome. Once a month from 5-5:45 p.m. in the Craft Room. Snacks and activities provided. Contact [email protected] with questions. Spons......More

Join us in person for grades K-1 book group! Perfect for first time book group goers and beginner readers. All reading levels welcome. Once a month from 5-5:45 p.m. in the Craft Room. Snacks and activities provided. Contact [email protected] with questions. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Library

Craft Room, Main Library

Teen Advisory Group

Teen Advisory Groups (TAGs) empower teens (you!) to have a voice in shaping library programs, services, and collections that are relevant to your interests. Additionally, TAGs can create a space for you to connect with others who share similar interests. We hope you'll ......More

Teen Advisory Groups (TAGs) empower teens (you!) to have a voice in shaping library programs, services, and collections that are relevant to your interests. Additionally, TAGs can create a space for you to connect with others who share similar interests. We hope you'll join us for our meeting! The purpose of this meeting is to meet, greet, and discuss a gathering time/day of week going forward. No reservations required... pizza included! If you have any questions, feel free to contact your teen librarians at [email protected]. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Library!

Middle School Room, Main Library

Teen Advisory Group

Teen Advisory Groups (TAGs) empower teens (you!) to have a voice in shaping library programs, services, and collections that are relevant to your interests. Additionally, TAGs can create a space for you to connect with others who share similar interests. We hope you'll ......More

Teen Advisory Groups (TAGs) empower teens (you!) to have a voice in shaping library programs, services, and collections that are relevant to your interests. Additionally, TAGs can create a space for you to connect with others who share similar interests. We hope you'll join us for our meeting! The purpose of this meeting is to meet, greet, and discuss a gathering time/day of week going forward. No reservations required... pizza included! If you have any questions, feel free to contact your teen librarians at [email protected]. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries!

High School Room, Main Library

Wellesley Writers' Circle: Session 4

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers tog......More

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers together.Over the course of four sessions, you’ll connect with fellow writers, participate in structured critiques, and celebrate each other’s progress. The full schedule includes two critique sessions, a final celebration, and a kickoff designed to spark inspiration and set the tone for the months ahead.By registering, you're committing to all four sessions.Session Overview:Session 1 (January 15): Meet the group & flash fiction warm-upSession 2 (February 19): First round of small-group critiquesSession 3 (March 19): Second round of small-group critiquesSession 4 (April 16): Final celebration with readings & reflections Questions? Email Danny at [email protected]

Arnold Room, Main Library

Wellesley Writers Circle Session 2

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers tog......More

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers together.Over the course of four sessions, you’ll connect with fellow writers, participate in structured critiques, and celebrate each other’s progress. The full schedule includes two critique sessions, a final celebration, and a kickoff designed to spark inspiration and set the tone for the months ahead.By registering, you're committing to all four sessions.Session Overview:Session 1 (January 15): Meet the group & flash fiction warm-upSession 2 (February 19): First round of small-group critiquesSession 3 (March 19): Second round of small-group critiquesSession 4 (April 16): Final celebration with readings & reflections Questions? Email Danny at [email protected]

Arnold Room, Main Library

Wellesley Writers Circle Session 3

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers tog......More

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers together.Over the course of four sessions, you’ll connect with fellow writers, participate in structured critiques, and celebrate each other’s progress. The full schedule includes two critique sessions, a final celebration, and a kickoff designed to spark inspiration and set the tone for the months ahead.By registering, you're committing to all four sessions.Session Overview:Session 1 (January 15): Meet the group & flash fiction warm-upSession 2 (February 19): First round of small-group critiquesSession 3 (March 19): Second round of small-group critiquesSession 4 (April 16): Final celebration with readings & reflections Questions? Email Danny at [email protected]

Arnold Room, Main Library

Wellesley Writers Circle Session 4

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers tog......More

Join the Wellesley Writers’ Circle!Spend four months immersed in creativity, community, and craft. This group is for fiction and creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels who are ready to share their work, exchange supportive feedback, and grow as writers together.Over the course of four sessions, you’ll connect with fellow writers, participate in structured critiques, and celebrate each other’s progress. The full schedule includes two critique sessions, a final celebration, and a kickoff designed to spark inspiration and set the tone for the months ahead.By registering, you're committing to all four sessions.Session Overview:Session 1 (January 15): Meet the group & flash fiction warm-upSession 2 (February 19): First round of small-group critiquesSession 3 (March 19): Second round of small-group critiquesSession 4 (April 16): Final celebration with readings & reflections Questions? Email Danny at [email protected]

Arnold Room, Main Library

Friday Morning Book Group

Join us to discuss: Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng. Copies of the book will be available for checkout at the Information Services Desk.Registration required. Questions? Email Deb at [email protected] Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Arnold Room, Main Library

Reel Fun Fridays

We will enjoy a screening of Zootopia, an activity, and a snack. Ages 5 recommended. Please notify staff of any necessary accommodations. Registration required starting one week in advance.Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Winter Reading Challenge Begins

Read every day from Saturday, January 17th through Saturday March 21st– For every five days you read, you can claim a prize. Just for registering for this challenge you are automatically entered into the grand prize raffle to win a prize from a local vendor, like the We......More

Read every day from Saturday, January 17th through Saturday March 21st– For every five days you read, you can claim a prize. Just for registering for this challenge you are automatically entered into the grand prize raffle to win a prize from a local vendor, like the Wellesley Book Store, Old School Italian Pizzeria, and more when the contest ends! Register at the Children’s Desk and check in to spin for prizes and continue tracking your reading. Best for pre-school to 8th grade. Registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Big Blue Blocks

Weekends: Drop into the Children’s Room and create with Big Blue Blocks! The Big Blue Blocks set from Imagination Playground contains a wide variety of loose parts, including bricks and cylinders, accented with chutes, channels and parts that suggest motion or connectiv......More

Weekends: Drop into the Children’s Room and create with Big Blue Blocks! The Big Blue Blocks set from Imagination Playground contains a wide variety of loose parts, including bricks and cylinders, accented with chutes, channels and parts that suggest motion or connectivityThese modular, rectilinear parts are easy to stack, line up and move around. Children enjoy an endless variety of play patterns including construction, pretend play, role-playing and inventing their own games. Most importantly, they are deeply engaged, active and have hours of fun.Sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library Foundation

Tootsie-Roll Storytime Room, Main Library

Intro to Art with iCanFly

Join us for a series of art classes specially designed for children with special needs, led by the talented Yvonne Zhou and iCanFly organization. Yvonne Zhou will bring creativity, patience, and expertise to create a welcoming and engaging environment where children can......More

Join us for a series of art classes specially designed for children with special needs, led by the talented Yvonne Zhou and iCanFly organization. Yvonne Zhou will bring creativity, patience, and expertise to create a welcoming and engaging environment where children can explore their artistic abilities. Materials will be provided, and parents or caregivers are welcome to join. No prior art experience is needed—just bring your imagination!. For ages 6 and up.Registration begins one week in advance.

Craft Room, Main Library

Wellesley Historical Society Speaker Series: Swift Boat Skipper with Robert H. Bradley

The Wellesley Historical Society, in partnership with the Wellesley Free Library, presents a free Speaker Series exploring topics in Wellesley, New England, national, and world history. Join us to hear a firsthand account of courage, combat, and coming of age aboard Swi......More

The Wellesley Historical Society, in partnership with the Wellesley Free Library, presents a free Speaker Series exploring topics in Wellesley, New England, national, and world history. Join us to hear a firsthand account of courage, combat, and coming of age aboard Swift Boats in Vietnam.In Swift Boat Skipper – Stories from the Vietnam War, Robert H. Bradley draws from hundreds of letters written to his parents and the diary he kept in-country to tell the Vietnam War story he lived—not the one portrayed in Apocalypse Now. Serving first aboard the USS Savage (DER-386) and later as skipper of a Swift Boat with Coastal Division 12, Bradley’s memoir follows his transformation from an inexperienced college graduate to a combat-tested officer. His patrols ranged from the South China Sea coastline to the dangerous Cua Dai River Basin, where firefights left many wounded and one fellow officer dead. With vivid detail, he captures both the professionalism and courage of Swift Boat crews and the growing disillusionment as their mission shifted from combat operations to training Vietnamese sailors to take their place. At once a personal coming-of-age story and an unvarnished account of a pivotal chapter in naval warfare, Bradley’s narrative preserves the honor, sacrifice, and complexity of those who served.This series is made possible by our generous sponsor, Christine Mayer, and is presented in partnership with the Wellesley Free Library.

Wakelin Room, Main Library

S.T.E.M. with 'STEM for Society'

Discover the exciting world of STEM with STEM for Society! In this hands-on workshop, kids will explore robotics, coding, and engineering through fun, interactive activities like building circuits and programming basic robots. Led by high school mentors, this program a......More

Discover the exciting world of STEM with STEM for Society! In this hands-on workshop, kids will explore robotics, coding, and engineering through fun, interactive activities like building circuits and programming basic robots. Led by high school mentors, this program aims to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and show how STEM shapes the world around us. This is free and open to kids ages 6 and up.Registration required starting one week in advance.

Craft Room, Main Library

Library Closed

https://wellesleyfreelibrary.libcal.com/ajax/calendar/monthly?c=-1&date=2024-08-16&monthly=true&audience=&cats=&camps=undefined&inc=0

Storytime at Main

Join us in the Wakelin Room for an all-ages storytime with songs and fingerplays.There will be free play time afterwards with toys and manipulablesSponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Snuggle Up Storytime at HILLS

Join us in-person every Tuesday morning at the HILLS branch for a cozy storytime filled with lap bounces, rhymes, songs, and simple stories. Best for babies, toddlers, or any children who love to cuddle up with their caregiver to read and sing. Adult participation requi......More

Join us in-person every Tuesday morning at the HILLS branch for a cozy storytime filled with lap bounces, rhymes, songs, and simple stories. Best for babies, toddlers, or any children who love to cuddle up with their caregiver to read and sing. Adult participation required. Drop in. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Hills- Full Branch, Hills Branch

AI for Beginners

Curious about artificial intelligence but not sure where to start? Join us for a beginner-friendly presentation that introduces the world of chatbots—a powerful AI tool for everyday tasks and creative projects. We’ll explore real-life examples of how you can use a popul......More

Curious about artificial intelligence but not sure where to start? Join us for a beginner-friendly presentation that introduces the world of chatbots—a powerful AI tool for everyday tasks and creative projects. We’ll explore real-life examples of how you can use a popular chatbot to assist with writing, research, organization, and more.No prior experience required. This is a lecture-style class and will not include hands-on computer use. Note: This program is designed for participants who are brand new to chatbots or have only tried them once or twice. Questions? Email [email protected] This program is generously sponsored by The Wellesley Free Library Foundation.

Wakelin Room, Main Library

Virtual - Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz

REGISTER TO ATTEND ONLINEBe sure to jump start your new year with us as we chat virtually with journalist and author Julia Hotz about her book The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. The Connection Cure combines dil......More

REGISTER TO ATTEND ONLINEBe sure to jump start your new year with us as we chat virtually with journalist and author Julia Hotz about her book The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. The Connection Cure combines diligent science reporting, moving patient success stories, and surprising self-discovery to help us discover the lasting and life-changing power of social prescribing. Traditionally, when we get sick, health care professionals ask, “What’s the matter with you?” But around the world, teams of doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers have started to flip the script, asking “What matters to you?” Science shows that social prescribing is effective for treating symptoms of the modern world’s most common ailments—depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, dementia, diabetes, and loneliness. By integrating age-old medicines like art, nature, movement, and volunteer service into patient’s daily lives, social prescriptions are radically changing health and healthcare in more than thirty countries. Julia Hotz travels around the world to survey them —sea-swimming lessons for depression, “culture vitamins” for anxiety, a fishing club for ADHD, a farm-based day-care for dementia, a phone-buddy program for social isolation, and many more.As the first book on social prescribing, The Connection Cure empowers you to find, experience, and implement this revolutionary medicine in your own community. The success stories Julia finds bring a long-known theory to life: if we can change our environment, we can change our health. By reconnecting to what matters to us, we can all start to feel better.Register today to find out how you can use the wisdom of social prescribing to live your best life!About the Author: Julia Hotz is a solutions focused journalist based in New York. Her stories have appeared in The New York Times, WIRED, Scientific American, The Boston Globe, Time, and more. She helps other journalists report on the big new ideas changing the world at the Solutions Journalism Network. The Connection Cure is her first book. Unable to attend live? Watch the recording anytime.Sponsored by The Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries.

2nd-3rd Grade Book Club

Join Ms. Erin for 2nd - 3rd Grade Book Club. We'll talk about this month's book, then do a fun craft or activity together! Registration required. This month we will read: Galaxy Zack: Hello Nebulon by Ray O'RyanCopies of the current month's book are available at the Chi......More

Join Ms. Erin for 2nd - 3rd Grade Book Club. We'll talk about this month's book, then do a fun craft or activity together! Registration required. This month we will read: Galaxy Zack: Hello Nebulon by Ray O'RyanCopies of the current month's book are available at the Children's Desk. Questions? Email: [email protected] or call 781-235-1610 x 4 Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Craft Room, Main Library

Trivia Night at Lockheart Restaurant

Get your thinkin' caps on, because The Wellesley Free Library is partnering up with Lockheart restaurant in Wellesley for Trivia Night! Trivia Night will be held at 7:00pm at Lockheart. Each question was sourced from staff members of the Library, so best of luck! There ......More

Get your thinkin' caps on, because The Wellesley Free Library is partnering up with Lockheart restaurant in Wellesley for Trivia Night! Trivia Night will be held at 7:00pm at Lockheart. Each question was sourced from staff members of the Library, so best of luck! There will be 5 rounds of trivia, each with 5 questions. The first and second place winners will win prizes. Come by yourself or with a group!To attend trivia night, simply make a reservation with Lockheart restaurant for trivia night. When making an online reservation, please place "Trivia Night" in the special requests section. The link for the restaurant is down below! https://lockheartwellesley.com/The address for Lockheart is 102 Central St, Wellesley, MA 02482. There is a parking lot in the back.

Science Fiction Book Group

Love intergalactic adventures, alternate realities, or dystopian futures? Join us for a discussion of this month’s science fiction selection with volunteer facilitator Stephen Maire. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the second floor Information Desk. Reg......More

Love intergalactic adventures, alternate realities, or dystopian futures? Join us for a discussion of this month’s science fiction selection with volunteer facilitator Stephen Maire. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the second floor Information Desk. Registration is required to attend. Questions about this event? Contact Tyson at [email protected] -->

#102- Green Room, Main Library

VIRTUAL: 50+ Job Seekers Networking Group -- Mastermind ("Tame Your Inner Critics")

The Library 50 Job Seekers Networking Group meets via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, from 9:30am to 11:30am. Informal networking takes place from 9am to 9:30am and 11:30am to noon. If you are unemployed and actively looking, underemployed, seeking a n......More

The Library 50 Job Seekers Networking Group meets via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, from 9:30am to 11:30am. Informal networking takes place from 9am to 9:30am and 11:30am to noon. If you are unemployed and actively looking, underemployed, seeking a new career direction, re-entering the job market after a long employment gap, or recently retired and looking for your "Encore Career," this networking group program is perfect for you! Remember, 85% of jobs are found through networking!Join us in a professional forum for networking with peers in a safe and comfortable environment conducive to developing new relationships and developing skills and strategies to help in your career transition. Each meeting features a new topic. Meetings include a presentation and interactive workshop on topics relevant to career transition, guest speakers, access to hiring managers, small group breakout rooms to network, and 1-on-1 coaching guidance. Participating on a regular basis will give job seekers the many tools and strategies needed for a successful job search.Each biweekly meeting is facilitated by Deborah Hope, MBA, PCIC, an experienced executive career coach. Deborah is a former Fortune 500 executive, investment banker and entrepreneur. She transitioned to executive coaching over 12 years ago. Deborah has coached with Harvard Business School Executive Education programs and the Massachusetts Conference for Women. She has been trained or certified in a variety of coaching models and assessment tools. Deborah has facilitated 50 job seekers networking groups since 2016. This week's topic (January 21) is Mastermind. Register directly on Zoom HERE. This group is sponsored by approximately 30 Massachusetts public libraries.RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email within 48 hours of the program.These workshops are made possible by The Wellesley Free Library Foundation.

Snuggle Up Storytime at FELLS

Join us in-person every WEDNESDAY morning at the FELLS branch for a cozy storytime filled with lap bounces, rhymes, songs, and simple stories. Best for babies, toddlers, or any children who love to cuddle up with their caregiver to read and sing. Adult participation req......More

Join us in-person every WEDNESDAY morning at the FELLS branch for a cozy storytime filled with lap bounces, rhymes, songs, and simple stories. Best for babies, toddlers, or any children who love to cuddle up with their caregiver to read and sing. Adult participation required. Drop in. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Fells Branch, Fells Branch

Storytime at Main

Join us in the Wakelin Room for an all-ages storytime with songs and fingerplays.There will be free play time afterwards with toys and manipulablesSponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

LEGO Club

Join us each month for LEGO Club. This is a drop in program, held each month, giving kids an opportunity to explore their creativity with LEGOs. Finished creations will be displayed in the Children's Room.Lego Club is geared towards ages 4 & up. Younger children are wel......More

Join us each month for LEGO Club. This is a drop in program, held each month, giving kids an opportunity to explore their creativity with LEGOs. Finished creations will be displayed in the Children's Room.Lego Club is geared towards ages 4 & up. Younger children are welcome ONLY when accompanied by an adult.Questions? Email [email protected] or call 781-235-1610 x 4Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Fuse Beads

https://wellesleyfreelibrary.libcal.com/ajax/calendar/monthly?c=-1&date=2024-08-16&monthly=true&audience=&cats=&camps=undefined&inc=0

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Game Night!

Join us for a weekly game night in The Commons! We will rotate a collection of board games each week. Come by yourself or bring a team. No registration required.

Commons, Main Library

We Are Wellesley: Beyond White Picket Fences - Book Talk & Reception

This month, Wellesley High School advanced photography students and their teacher, Doug Johnson, will present We Are Wellesley: Beyond White Picket Fences. The exhibit highlights the often-unrecognized demographic richness of Wellesley. Through portraits and visual stor......More

This month, Wellesley High School advanced photography students and their teacher, Doug Johnson, will present We Are Wellesley: Beyond White Picket Fences. The exhibit highlights the often-unrecognized demographic richness of Wellesley. Through portraits and visual storytelling, students explore the many faces and experiences that shape our town today.The exhibit was inspired by Catherine Bueker’s Beyond White Picket Fences: Evolution of an American Town (Russell Sage Foundation, 2025), which examines how Wellesley has evolved from a largely homogeneous community into a more diverse and multilayered town. Drawing on interviews with nearly 100 residents and an analysis of the Wellesley Townsman since 1906, the book traces the impact of Italian, Jewish, Chinese, and other communities.Join us on January 21 @ 6:30pm for a book talk and reception celebrating both the author and the art—and the stories they tell.This event is co-sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library, the Mass Cultural Council and the League of Women Voters.

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Tech Time (formerly Open Lab)

Tech Time: One-on-One Tech HelpGet personalized assistance with basic technology questions from a librarian or trained volunteer in Jackie’s Room.We can help with things like:Using emailDownloading library apps (like Libby or Hoopla)Navigating websitesSetting up your de......More

Tech Time: One-on-One Tech HelpGet personalized assistance with basic technology questions from a librarian or trained volunteer in Jackie’s Room.We can help with things like:Using emailDownloading library apps (like Libby or Hoopla)Navigating websitesSetting up your deviceAnd more!Each session is 30 minutes and begins promptly at the scheduled time — please arrive on time. Appointments are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance. Please sign up for an appointment here. For more information, contact Melanie Griffiths from Information Services at [email protected].

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Library Social Work Hours

Need social work support? Come meet with Joyce Saret, a Town of Wellesley social worker! She will be open for drop-in meetings in conference room 211 from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM

Main Library

 Code Ninjas - Intro to Minecraft Modding

Ever wondered how to add your own gear to Minecraft? In this free 2-hour session, Ninjas will get a beginner-friendly introduction to modding with MCreator. Instead of just playing with the standard iron or diamond gear, they’ll learn how to design and configure their v......More

Ever wondered how to add your own gear to Minecraft? In this free 2-hour session, Ninjas will get a beginner-friendly introduction to modding with MCreator. Instead of just playing with the standard iron or diamond gear, they’ll learn how to design and configure their very own custom tool—like a super-powered pickaxe or a unique sword. It’s a fun, "soft start" to game design that gives kids a taste of how our full modding camps!Registration required starting January 13

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Building Inclusive Communities by Examining Diversity, Disability, Intersectionality, and Ourselves

Join us to explore how identity, privilege, and community are shaped through history, beginning with the Civil Rights and Disability Rights Movements. We'll unpack bias, intersectionality, and how we can each help build more inclusive communities. About the presenter: N......More

Join us to explore how identity, privilege, and community are shaped through history, beginning with the Civil Rights and Disability Rights Movements. We'll unpack bias, intersectionality, and how we can each help build more inclusive communities. About the presenter: Nicole Homerin, M.Ed. (she/her) is an Asian American educator, disability advocate, writer, and lifelong learner. After spending many years working as a teacher of students with disabilities and reflecting on her own lived experience, she began to realize how many aspects of the education system actively work against what is best for students and their families. She has dedicated her life to unlearning ableism and finding creative and innovative ways to make learning accessible and equitable for learners of all ages and access needs. Questions about the event? Email [email protected] Sponsored by The Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Wakelin Room, Main Library

Friday Flowers

Come learn how to make realistic flowers using crepe paper! Known for its crinkled, textured surface, crepe paper is made through a process that involves stretching and chemically treating the paper fibers, which gives it its distinctive elasticity and texture.This mont......More

Come learn how to make realistic flowers using crepe paper! Known for its crinkled, textured surface, crepe paper is made through a process that involves stretching and chemically treating the paper fibers, which gives it its distinctive elasticity and texture.This month we will be making Tea Roses This program is suitable for Adults. Questions about the program? Email Haley [email protected] by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Wakelin Room, Main Library

Imagination Playtime

Join us each month for Imagination Playtime! This is an open-ended, unstructured playtime where the kids get to decide the play. Each month we will bring out our oversized magnetic panels that can be used to build a house, a rocket, a grocery store – what ever you can i......More

Join us each month for Imagination Playtime! This is an open-ended, unstructured playtime where the kids get to decide the play. Each month we will bring out our oversized magnetic panels that can be used to build a house, a rocket, a grocery store – what ever you can imagine! Use our play scarves to dress up and play pretend Fun for ages 5 and up. Drop in.Sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library Foundation

Tootsie-Roll Storytime Room, Main Library

Poetry Book Club

Join us for our Poetry Book Club meeting! This Month’s book will be And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou. Copies are available at the second floor Information Desk. You don’t need to be a poet or scholar; just bring an open heart and an open mind as we explore the power of......More

Join us for our Poetry Book Club meeting! This Month’s book will be And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou. Copies are available at the second floor Information Desk. You don’t need to be a poet or scholar; just bring an open heart and an open mind as we explore the power of poetry together. Registration required. Questions about the book club? Email Danny at [email protected]

#204- Blue Room, Main Library

Big Blue Blocks

Weekends: Drop into the Children’s Room and create with Big Blue Blocks! The Big Blue Blocks set from Imagination Playground contains a wide variety of loose parts, including bricks and cylinders, accented with chutes, channels and parts that suggest motion or connectiv......More

Weekends: Drop into the Children’s Room and create with Big Blue Blocks! The Big Blue Blocks set from Imagination Playground contains a wide variety of loose parts, including bricks and cylinders, accented with chutes, channels and parts that suggest motion or connectivityThese modular, rectilinear parts are easy to stack, line up and move around. Children enjoy an endless variety of play patterns including construction, pretend play, role-playing and inventing their own games. Most importantly, they are deeply engaged, active and have hours of fun.Sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library Foundation

Tootsie-Roll Storytime Room, Main Library

AbraKidabra

Come see Mike Bent's Abrakidabra, an exciting and fun comedy magic show developed especially for kids and families! AbraKidabra!™ combines amazing magic, big laughs, audience participation and hilarious surprises for a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience. Good for all......More

Come see Mike Bent's Abrakidabra, an exciting and fun comedy magic show developed especially for kids and families! AbraKidabra!™ combines amazing magic, big laughs, audience participation and hilarious surprises for a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience. Good for all ages.Drop in Sponsored by the Longfellow Wellesley Tennis & Health Club

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Hills Branch: Book Chat

Love talking about books? Book lovers gather monthly to share books of their own choice. No assigned reading—just great conversation, new ideas, and plenty of recommendations. This group is open to all! Come for conversation, leave with a reading list! Registration enco......More

Love talking about books? Book lovers gather monthly to share books of their own choice. No assigned reading—just great conversation, new ideas, and plenty of recommendations. This group is open to all! Come for conversation, leave with a reading list! Registration encouraged. Have questions about this event? Email [email protected]

Hills- Full Branch, Hills Branch

Intro to Python

Learn the basics of Python, a popular and versatile coding language used in everything from automation to app development. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll explore what makes Python unique, how it compares to other programming languages, and how to start writi......More

Learn the basics of Python, a popular and versatile coding language used in everything from automation to app development. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll explore what makes Python unique, how it compares to other programming languages, and how to start writing your own code.Skills Required: Basic computer skills, including typing and navigating a computer.Questions? Please email Haley at [email protected]. This workshop is generously sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library Foundation.

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Crepe Paper Flowers

Come learn how to make realistic flowers using crepe paper! Known for its crinkled, textured surface, crepe paper is made through a process that involves stretching and chemically treating the paper fibers, which gives it its distinctive elasticity and texture. This mon......More

Come learn how to make realistic flowers using crepe paper! Known for its crinkled, textured surface, crepe paper is made through a process that involves stretching and chemically treating the paper fibers, which gives it its distinctive elasticity and texture. This month we will be making Tea Roses.This program is suitable for ages 10 to Adult. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Libraries

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Crepe Paper Flowers

Come learn how to make realistic flowers using crepe paper! Known for its crinkled, textured surface, crepe paper is made through a process that involves stretching and chemically treating the paper fibers, which gives it its distinctive elasticity and texture. This mon......More

Come learn how to make realistic flowers using crepe paper! Known for its crinkled, textured surface, crepe paper is made through a process that involves stretching and chemically treating the paper fibers, which gives it its distinctive elasticity and texture. This month we will be making Tea Roses.This program is suitable for ages 10 to Adult. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Libraries

Main Library

Big Blue Blocks

Weekends: Drop into the Children’s Room and create with Big Blue Blocks! The Big Blue Blocks set from Imagination Playground contains a wide variety of loose parts, including bricks and cylinders, accented with chutes, channels and parts that suggest motion or connectiv......More

Weekends: Drop into the Children’s Room and create with Big Blue Blocks! The Big Blue Blocks set from Imagination Playground contains a wide variety of loose parts, including bricks and cylinders, accented with chutes, channels and parts that suggest motion or connectivityThese modular, rectilinear parts are easy to stack, line up and move around. Children enjoy an endless variety of play patterns including construction, pretend play, role-playing and inventing their own games. Most importantly, they are deeply engaged, active and have hours of fun.Sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library Foundation

Tootsie-Roll Storytime Room, Main Library