By Ann Needle
This month is often devoted to beach, sun, travel, and anything outdoors. But some days get a bit too steamy or the cries of “I’m bored” become too loud. When the going gets hot, and reading materials are in short supply, head for the Randall Library and check out some of these events. And check out the new Adult Summer Reading program while you’re there. For more details go to www.randalllibrarystow.org
Exploring the Worcester Art Museum- The Renaissance to Baroque Collections, Thursday, July 10 at 7pm— The Randall Library is proud to have Stow resident and art expert Martha Chiarchiaro teaching a three-part series of lectures on the great works of art at the Worcester Art Museum. Come to the second of these informative discussions of the treasures at this local museum. Passes to the museum will be available soon, thanks to the Randall Library Friends Association.
How Robots Work, with Chris from IRobot, Friday, July 11 at 11:30am–Robots are all around us, offering help cleaning our homes and washing our cars to helping develop drugs to keep us healthy. Find out more about the robots around us and how they work.
Sparky’s Puppets, Friday July 18 at 1:30pm – Come join the fun with Sparky’s puppets and learn more about science and imagination. This program is supported in part by the Randall Library Friends Association, Stow Cultural Council (which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency) and DCU Kids.
Teddy Bear Picnic at the Randall Library, Wednesday, July 16 at 11am – Sponsored by the Nashoba Community Partnership for Children, the picnic is part of a series of events throughout the summer around Nashoba Regional’s towns. Bring lunch, a blanket and your teddy bear, to participate in stories songs and activities. Held rain or shine. (If you miss this picnic, look to the Independent’s calendar for other dates and time in Bolton and Lancaster.)
Edible Wild Plants of the Northeast- with John Root, July 17at 6:30pm – At the time of year when herb gardens flavor so much freshly grown food, local naturalist, permaculture practitioner and landscaper John Root will give a comprehensive introduction to the identification and uses of wild plants for food and beverage. This 90-minute presentation features distinguishing characteristics, seasons of availability, habitats, methods of preparation, and nutritional value of our region’s most common and appealing wild plants.
Rhythm Room at the Randall, Friday, July 18 at 10:30am–A special pre-school story hour this month will feature The Rhythm Room. Participants will be reading stories and then making music with Rick Morin’s Rhythm Imaginarium team members, finding music in everyday objects. Kids will be able to drum, shake, and jump to the beat.
Jenny the Juggler, Tuesday July, 22at 1:3 0pm– Come watch Jenny’s amazing juggling skills and you just might be asked to help her out! This program is supported in part by the Randall Library Friends Association, Stow Cultural Council (which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency) and DCU kids.
Sisters in Crime Night with Hank Phillippi Ryan and Tilia Kebnov Jacobs, Thursday, July 24 at 7pm –Those accustomed to Hank Phillippi Ryan’s consumer investigations on 7News Boston may not know she also is a mystery writer, winning an Agatha Award in 2013. With award-winning author Tilia Kebnov Jacobs, Phillippi Ryan will talk about what goes into writing a mystery novel, the authors’ latest novels, and what makes a great mystery tick.
Creative Movement Play-Along-with Lisa Von Lichtenberg, Friday, July 25 at 10:30am-With 25 years of experience teaching special arts enrichment and dance programs throughout the area, Lisa is offering a unique and popular program at the Randall Library on July 25th. We will have a great time moving to music and using our imaginations! Sign-up in advance at the Randall Library Circulation Desk.
Creature Teachers, Thursday, July 31 at 6pm –The Randall Library is proud to welcome some of the most fascinating creatures of the world to this special event. This program is supported in part by the Randall Library Friends Association, Stow Cultural Council (which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency), and DCU Kids.
Along with these events are ongoing programs, including a New Summer Reading Program for Adults:
Randall Library Reading Dogs, Tuesdays & Wednesday from 4:30-5:30 pm—This popular, ongoing program is designed to help build confidence in children that are shy about reading aloud. A child can “read” to a specially trained dog, who will “listen” quietly and not interrupt with criticism or pesky plot comments. Sign-up sheets are available at the library circulation desk
Adult Summer Reading Bingo — Those that are nostalgic for the summer reading programs of childhood can join in the fun again with Randall’s Summer Reading Bingo running through August 28. While using all the different services the Randall Library has to offer, adults can gain points on special Randall Library bingo cards (available when you sign up) and gain opportunities for raffle chances. Participants must be at least 21 years old. Prizes include a Trader Joe’s gift basket, a $10 gift certificate to Nancy’s Airfield Café, and a night at the Amerscot Bed and Breakfast.
Kids Book Club – Adults aren’t the only ones who can get together with friends and talk books. The Library’s book club is especially for kids ages 8-10. For more on the next meeting and current book the club is reading, call 978/897-8572.