Storytimes near FELLS BRANCH LIBRARY

Jackie's Room, Main Library

If you need any technology assistance, you can now schedule an appointment and meet with a librarian or volunteer in Jackie's Room. Each appointment is 30-minutes long which will immediately begin at the scheduled time - please be prompt. Spots are limited! Please sign up for an appointment here. For more information, please contact Melanie from Info Services at mgriffiths@wellesleyma.gov

Wakelin Room, Main Library

Curious about Rummikub? Join us for a fun, casual introduction to this popular tile-based game. No experience is necessary—beginners are welcome! Learn the rules, practice your strategy, and enjoy a friendly game with fellow players. Drop in and play; all materials provided.

#204- Blue Room, Main Library

Join us each month as we explore banned and challenged books, discuss why they were targeted, and celebrate the freedom to read. Come for the controversy, stay for the conversation! July's book is The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath. Copies are available at the second floor Information Desk. Registration required. Questions? Email Danny at dgage@wellesleyma.gov

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Explore the genealogy resources available through the Wellesley Free Library—including Ancestry.com and more. In this hands-on session, we’ll walk through the genealogy research process and highlight the tools and databases available to support your search. Skills required: Basic internet skills, including how to navigate using browser tabs. Have questions about this program? Email Tyson at tbolles@wellesleyma.gov This workshop is generously sponsored by The Wellesley Free Library Foundation.

#204- Blue Room, Main Library

Copies of the book will be available for checkout at the Information Services Desk. Registration required. Questions? Email Deb at dberenbaum@minlib.net Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries.

Welcome to our yearlong series in which “America’s Preeminent Presidential Doodler”, Heather Rogers, shares facts, factoids, and fun illustrations about the presidents of these United States. This month, our focus turns to Andrew Jackson: Into dueling (and had a bullet near his heart to prove it). Blamed John Quincy Adams for his wife’s death. Last president to conveniently die at the same place where his funeral was held and he was buried (his f*cking swearing parrot was kicked out of his funeral). Don't you want to know more (esp about that parrot!?!)? In 2026, journey through Heather's sketchbooks as she shares some of her favorite tidbits, doodles, observations, and resurrection stories about the first 12 presidents. Register directly on Zoom HERE. You can sign up for one session or for all! RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recording via email within 48 hours of the program. About Heather: Heather Rogers isn’t a historian, an academic, or an impartial storyteller… but she has read more than one book about every U.S. president. Out of spite. She was dubbed “America’s Preeminent Presidential Doodler” by one of her favorite biographers and she’s been repeating it ever since. When she’s not reading or doodling history books, she’s a freelance graphic designer, illustrator, and content creator. To keep her interest during her accidental spite project, Heather Rogers filled hundreds of sketchbook pages doodling her way through presidential biographies. Doing so heightened her curiosity and turned her into an insufferable presidential nerd. Along the way, she discovered unexpected threads connecting seemingly unconnected people, times, and events. She can’t get enough of the weird trivia, coincidences, and quirks. Like the fact that English wasn’t the first language of the first president born in the U.S. Or that a three-part plan was proposed to bring George Washington back to life. Don’t even get her started on William Henry Harrison – he was only president for a month, but she could talk about him for hours. *All illustrations for this series have been created by Heather Rogers and are her property therein. Registration is required for this virtual event. Presented in collaboration with Ashland Public Library and a number of other MA and NH libraries. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Library

Wakelin Room, Main Library

Embark on a fun journey with our beginners’ class. This presentation unveils the magic of chatbots, a groundbreaking AI tool. Through examples, you’ll discover how to use a popular chatbot for personal assistance and creative exploration. Skills required: None. This will be a presentation and not hands-on with the computer. Note: This class is geared towards those that have not used a chatbot previously or only once or twice. Have questions about this program? Email Haley at hschmidt@wellesleyma.gov This program is generously sponsored by The Wellesley Free Library Foundation

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

The Women of ’76 is a compelling one-woman theatrical performance that brings to life the true stories of women who played vital roles during the American Revolution. Registration required Have questions about the event email Tyson at tbolles@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Jackie's Room, Main Library

If you need any technology assistance, you can now schedule an appointment and meet with a librarian or volunteer in Jackie's Room. Each appointment is 30-minutes long which will immediately begin at the scheduled time - please be prompt. Spots are limited! Please sign up for an appointment here. For more information, please contact Melanie from Info Services at mgriffiths@wellesleyma.gov

Wakelin Room, Main Library

Curious about Rummikub? Join us for a fun, casual introduction to this popular tile-based game. No experience is necessary—beginners are welcome! Learn the rules, practice your strategy, and enjoy a friendly game with fellow players. Drop in and play; all materials provided.

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Managing your Mail, Contacts, and Calendars is fundamental to using your iPhone and iPad to their full potential. This class will review the many features of these three Apps and provide handy tips and tricks for using them to their full power to stay better organized and efficient. Questions? Email Haley at hschmidt@wellesleyma.gov Generously sponsored by The Wellesley Free Library Foundation.

Main Library

Need social work support? Come meet with Joyce Saret, 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

Wakelin Room- Max Capacity, Main Library

Step back in time and discover how people wrote during the colonial era in this engaging 90-minute hands-on workshop. We’ll explore what early Americans wrote with and wrote on, take a look at images of famous colonists and their writing desks, and learn about the tools of the trade. Then, participants will set up their own writing station with paper, nibs, and ink, and practice cursive using dip pens. With guided instruction and lettering samples, you’ll create your own signature inspired by those from colonial times. Registration required. Have questions about the event? Email Tyson at tbolles@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Main Library

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 learning how to make Carnations! This program is suitable for Adults. Questions about the program? Email Haley hschmidt@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Libraries

Main Library

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 Carnations. This program is suitable for ages 10 to Adult. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Libraries

#102- Green Room, Main Library

Y.A.L.L. (Young Adult Leadership League) is a volunteer group for high school students who want to make a difference at the library and in the Wellesley community. The group meets once a month and offers opportunities to earn community service hours by participating in special projects and events. Join our next meeting! Students can fill out the volunteer application online. Questions? Email welteens@minlib.net Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries.

#102- Green Room, Main Library

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 tbolles@wellesleyma.gov -->

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. Questions? Email Haley at hschmidt@wellesleyma.gov

Wakelin Room, Main Library

Explore simple but powerful strategies to improve sleep quality. Covers routines, mental tips, nighttime safety, and food dos and don'ts. Registration required. Questions? Email Haley at hschmidt@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries.

Jackie's Room, Main Library

If you need any technology assistance, you can now schedule an appointment and meet with a librarian or volunteer in Jackie's Room. Each appointment is 30-minutes long which will immediately begin at the scheduled time - please be prompt. Spots are limited! Please sign up for an appointment here. For more information, please contact Melanie from Info Services at mgriffiths@wellesleyma.gov

Main Library

Need social work support? Come meet with Joyce Saret, 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

Arnold Room, Main Library

Since July 1990, Disability Pride Month is a great time to learn about disability culture, history, and community pride. We'll explore the events and legislation that led to the establishment of Disability Pride Month and learn about the Disability Pride flag. We'll discuss how the disability community honors and celebrates disability and how allies can support disability pride. 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. Registration required Have questions about the event? Email Danny at dgage@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Main Library

Paul Revere is an American icon, but how much does the story of the Midnight Ride hold up, and why? On the 250th anniversary of the event, this program allows us to explore Revere and his famous ride, and offers some insights into other aspects of his life as well. Registration required. Have questions about the event email Tyson at tbolles@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Arnold Room, Main Library

No racing, no pressure—just puzzles and good company. Join us for a relaxed hour of jigsaw puzzling, conversation, and light refreshments on a Friday afternoon at the library. What to do with jigsaw puzzles you’ve completed? Swap them! Bring your puzzles to exchange with others (No missing pieces, please!). We'll have a table for puzzle swapping. No registration required. Have questions about the event? Email Melanie at mgriffiths@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Arnold Room, Main Library

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 required. Please note due to construction Book Chat will be held at the Main Library. Have questions about this event? Email Danny at dgage@wellesleyma.gov

Main Library

Calling all tweens and teens! Join us for a relaxing spa afternoon, making self-care kits including homemade scrubs. Tea and treats provided. We invite you to create your own oasis to bring home with you. For ages 11 - 18. Registration required starting July 18. If you have any questions, please email efagan@wellesleyma.gov or ayzaguirre@wellesleyma.gov. Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Jackie's Room, Main Library

Curious about podcasts but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly session for iPod, iPhone, and iPad users will walk you through the Apple Podcasts app and show you how to make the most of this free and powerful tool. You’ll learn how to: Search for and subscribe to your favorite shows Stream or download episodes for offline listening Organize your podcast library Adjust playback speed and notification settings Discover new shows across every interest and genre Whether you're into news, storytelling, wellness, or comedy—there’s a podcast for you. Come learn how to listen, learn, and enjoy on the go. Registration required. Questions? Email Haley at hschmidt@wellesleyma.gov This workshop is generously sponsored by The Wellesley Free Library Foundation.

Jackie's Room, Main Library

This class introduces students to the fundamentals of online retail and e-commerce. Participants will learn how to evaluate online retailers, identify trustworthy websites, and recognize common online shopping scams. The course covers secure payment methods, delivery tracking, and best practices for returns and refunds to ensure safe and confident online purchasing. Students will also explore the basics of popular e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Shopify, Etsy, and eBay, gaining practical knowledge of how these marketplaces operate. By the end of the course, students will be better equipped to navigate online shopping safely and effectively. Questions? Email Haley at hschmidt@wellesleyma.gov Sponsored by The Wellesley Free Library Foundation

Off-site

Mobile Movies return to the Town Hall Green this summer! Tonight we will be screening A Minecraft Movie. Families, teens and senior citizens can watch this feature film from their beach chair or blanket. These movies are FREE with no pre-registration required! Starting time is subject to change. Outdoor movies are presented in partnership with the Wellesley Youth Commission, Wellesley Recreation, and the Wellesley Free Library. More information about Wellesley Recreation's programs on the Town Hall Green can be found at Summer Concerts and Mobile Movies from Wellesley Recreation.

Jackie's Room, Main Library

If you need any technology assistance, you can now schedule an appointment and meet with a librarian or volunteer in Jackie's Room. Each appointment is 30-minutes long which will immediately begin at the scheduled time - please be prompt. Spots are limited! Please sign up for an appointment here. For more information, please contact Melanie from Info Services at mgriffiths@wellesleyma.gov