VIRTUAL: Mary Sears and the Marine Scientists Who Helped Win World War II (*RR)

Sunday, October 23, 2:30pm

Author Catherine “Kate” Musemeche will deliver a presentation based on her new book, Lethal Tides: Mary Sears and the Marine Scientists Who Helped Win World War II, in this Zoom webinar. Hidden Figures meets The Imitation Game in this phenomenal true story of the virtually unknown Mary Sears. Known as “the first oceanographer of the Navy,” her groundbreaking oceanographic research helped lead the U.S. to victory in the Pacific theater during World War II. When World War II began, the U.S. Navy was unprepared to enact its island-hopping strategy to reach Japan. Anticipating tides, planning for coral reefs, and preparing for enemy fire was new ground for them, and with lives at stake it was ground that had to be covered quickly. They turned to Mary Sears, an oceanographer with continuously overlooked untapped talent who, along with a team of colorful and quirky marine scientists, became instrumental in turning the tide of the war in the United States’ favor.

VIRTUAL: Jewish Immigrants and the American Antiques Trade with Historic New England (*RR)

Monday, October 24, 11am

In the early twentieth century, Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe played an unlikely yet pivotal role in the emerging market for antiques. Working as dealers, restorers, and makers, these individuals became noted authorities on American decorative arts and their clients included some of the most famous collectors of their era. Explore the lives and careers of a handful of men, including Israel Sack, Nathan Margolis, and Isaac Kaplan, who transformed the look and feel of American heritage. Led by Erica Lome, Associate Curator at Historic New England. She was previously the Peggy N. Gerry Curatorial Associate at the Concord Museum. Lome specializes in American material culture, with a focus on things made, owned, and used in New England and the contributions of immigrant craftspeople to that body of work.

VIRTUAL: JOB SEARCH HELP -- Older Adults & Work In The 21st Century (*RR

Monday, October 24, 2pm

The baby boomers, born during the years of 1946 -1964, are changing our notions about aging and the traditional view of retirement. Due to medical advances and better self-care, we are experiencing a longevity revolution. People may live 30+ years past the “traditional” retirement age of 62 -65. This doesn’t necessarily mean longer “old age” but can be viewed as an extended “middle stage” of life. Middle age is now being viewed as 45 -75+. These bonus years give us an opportunity to be more conscious and intentional in figuring out “What’s next?” It’s an opportunity to look at the various parts of your life and to “puzzle” out what’s important to you. It’s hard enough for individuals and can be more complicated if you’re part of a couple and you each have different values, goals, dreams and time-lines for the years ahead.  All of this can be even more complicated if you’ve lost your job and don’t want to be “retired” from your work life and are trying to figure out “what’s next?” in your career life. Being retired from a job does NOT mean being retired from life. Led by Dorian Mintzer, M.S.W., Ph.D., a Licensed Psychologist who provides Psychotherapy, Career/Life Transition Coaching, Couples Relationship Coaching, Executive Coaching and Speaking.

VIRTUAL: Bestselling Author Ellen Marie Wiseman In Conversation With Dr. William Bronston (*RR

Monday, October 24, 7pm

Bestselling author Ellen Marie Wiseman will discuss her brand new book, The Lost Girls of Willowbrook: A Heartbreaking Novel of Survival Based on True History, in conversation with Dr. William Bronston, a former Willbrook physician and whistleblower, in this Zoom webinar entitled "Willowbrook State School: Where Fact Meets Fiction." Bestselling author Ellen Marie Wiseman masterfully viscerally evokes the real-life Willowbrook State School, the infamous Staten Island, NY, mental institution that shocked a nation when exposed in the 1970s as a dumping ground for unwanted children. Girl, Interrupted meets Shutter Island in this gripping narrative of social injustice, survival, and a young woman determined to find her sister.

IN PERSON: 'Chasing Chandler: Is The Tewksbury Library Haunted?' (*RR)

Monday, October 24, 7pm

Several current and former employees of the Tewksbury Public Library believe it is haunted. Over the past 10 years, there have been reports of unexplainable phenomena, from shadowy figures to whispering in empty rooms to falling books seemingly defying the laws of physics. The library has hosted its annual fall "Fright Night" series of paranormal programs for the past 12 years and numerous presenters, including mediums, have often "sensed something" in the library, which was built on land that once belonged to the Tewksbury State Hospital, with two hospital cemeteries nearby. Library staff has affectionately named the ghost "Chandler," after the street the library is located, with the belief that it is a relatively "friendly ghost." Over the past year, the library commissioned several investigative groups -- working under the umbrella of Moonlight Paranormal Productions -- to gather evidence of any supernatural being haunting the library. This all-star team of paranormal researchers, which donated its time, will produce their findings -- including videos, photos, EVPs and other test results -- in this public presentation.

VIRTUAL: Mindfulness & Meditation Class -- Mindfulness for Stress Relief (*RR)

Monday, October 24, 7:30pm

Practice clearing your mind, being in the present moment and reducing stress in this 30-minute class. Participants are welcome to find a quiet, comfortable space to relax and join mindfulness teacher, Lauren Masse. Learn how to practice daily mindfulness and calm your mind and body. Lauren will focus on a different type of meditation for each session. This series runs on Mondays -- October 3 (Gentle Relaxation), October 17 (Earth Meditation) and October 24 (Mindfulness for Stress Relief) -- at 7:30pm. Lauren Masse is dedicated and committed to supporting others in their mental and physical wellness journeys. She studied Psychology and Public Health at UMass Amherst, and has a Master’s of Public Health from Boston University. She is a certified Holistic Health Coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She founded Mindful Minis Boston in 2018 and offers mindfulness classes and private coaching.

VIRTUAL: Civil War & Reconstruction: Battle For Freedom & Equality with National Constitution Center (*RR)

Tuesday, October 25, 2pm

Explore the National Constitution Center’s compelling exhibit, "Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality," as one of its museum educators leads viewers through the exhibit. Learn how constitutional clashes over slavery set the stage for the Civil War, and how the nation transformed the Constitution after the war during the Reconstruction period, taking a particularly close look at the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments. Along the way, your guide will highlight the stories of people like Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, and other figures central to the conflict over slavery. You will also get an up-close look at special artifacts on display, including original copies of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, Dred Scott’s signed petition for freedom, a fragment of the flag that Abraham Lincoln raised at Independence Hall, a commemorative copy of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Lincoln, and more. Throughout the tour, you will also get all of your constitutional questions answered through a lively Q&A with the National Constitution Center educator.

VIRTUAL: Saving For Retirement (*RR)

Tuesday, October 25, 7pm

Do you want to begin investing but don't know where to start? This fun and interactive workshop will help you learn about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs, and how to choose investments that make sense for you. Led by instructors from the Babson Financial Literacy Program, a not-for-profit program designed to?help adults acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for long-term financial prosperity and independence.

VIRTUAL: Southeast Asian Author Panel -- Piper Drake, Mia Manansala, Sarah Smith & Jesse Sutanto (*RR)

Tuesday, October 25, 7pm

Enjoy a fascinating conversation with Piper J. Drake, Mia Manansala, Sara Smith and Jesse Sutanto. Whether born in the United States or elsewhere, these four successful authors will discuss how their Southeast Asian heritage has influenced their writing, characters, publishing journey, and fanbase.

IN PERSON: FILM SCREENING -- Paws of Fury -- The Legend of Hank (*RR)

Wednesday, October 26, 10:30am

Enjoy a screening of one of Hollywood's newest DVD releases – “Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank.” Hank, a loveable dog with a head full of dreams about becoming a samurai, sets off in search of his destiny. Animated action comedy. Rated PG. 98 minutes. Doors will open at 10:15am. Candy & water will be served. A $1 donation is suggested.

VIRTUAL: Antonio Vivaldi -- The Red Priest Revealed (*RR)

Wednesday, October 26, 11am

A master of the Baroque concerto, Antonio Vivaldi inspired many generations of musicians - none more notable than his contemporary Johann Sebastian Bach. He joined the church at the age of 15 where his bright red hair earned him the nickname, "The Red Priest." Listen to his life's story as we learn what made this "Four Seasons" composer so special. Dan Lupo, creator of FiveMinuteMozart.com, a music education platform with over 2 million views and 20k+ subscribers, will present an incredible music education program that consists of a spoken lecture as well as live performances.

IN PERSON: The Page-Turners Fiction Book Group -- The Kindest Lie

Wednesday, October 26, 6:30pm

This month, join us for a discussion of The Kindest Lie by Nancy Johnson. In Chicago, Ruth Tuttle, an Ivy-League educated engineer, is married to a kind and successful man. He’s eager to start a family, but Ruth is uncertain. She has never gotten over the baby she gave birth to—and was forced to leave behind—when she was a teenager. She had promised her family she’d never look back, but Ruth knows that to move forward, she must make peace with the past. New members are always welcome! Copies of the book are available at the Front Desk one month prior to meeting. We will be meeting in person, in the meeting room on the first floor of the library. Please email Nicole Goolishian at [email protected] with any questions.

VIRTUAL: Digging Deeper -- Sutton Hoo & Anglo-Saxon England (*RR)

Thursday, October 27, 11am

The 7th century ship burial found at Sutton Hoo, England, recently the topic of a new film, still captivates us. In addition to this site, in recent years there have been a surprising number of new discoveries: the Prittlewell Prince and the Staffordshire Hoard, each offering fresh insights into this period of history in England. What are the experts learning about these centuries that used to be relegated to the term “the Dark Ages”? The objects of gleaming gold, garnets and silver tell us that the period was marked by more sophistication, trade and culture than previously thought. And we can observe the expansion of Christianity among the artifacts being uncovered. Explore the famous Sutton Hoo Ship Burial in more detail and learn about the new discoveries being made in the last two decades. Led by art historian Mary Woodward, who serves as a guide at several Historic New England properties. She previously served as Public Programs Coordinator and Educator at the Concord Museum.

VIRTUAL: Watergate At 50 -- The Burglary That Changed The Nation (*RR)

Thursday, October 27, 7pmIt has been called “The Scandal that Never Goes Away” — and with good reason. Fifty years after the break-in at the Democratic headquarters at the Watergate Hotel, we still do not know the full story of how the burglary came to happen. What we DO know is that the events that followed, culminating in President Nixon’s resignation in August of 1974, continue to hold lessons about the nature of power that seem to resonate ever more strongly as the years go by. Learn the story of how a local break-in became a national scandal, and how it profoundly changed the way Americans think about their political institutions. Led by Daniel Breen, a Senior Lecturer in Legal Studies at Brandeis University, and a recipient of the Louis Brandeis Award for Excellence in Teaching. While his primary academic interests lay in the law and politics of the Early Republic, he also holds a Ph.D. in American History and enjoys lecturing on a wide variety of subjects.

IN PERSON: FILM SCREENING -- Mack & Rita (*RR)

Friday, October 28, 10:30am AND 7pm

Enjoy a screening of one of Hollywood's newest DVD releases – “Mack & Rita.” A 30-year-old writer spends a wild weekend in Palm Springs and wakes up to find she has magically transformed into her 70-year-old self. Comedy starring Diane Keaton and Elizabeth Lail. Rated PG-13. 94 minutes. Doors will open at 15-30 minutes early. Candy & water will be served at morning. Pizza & water will be served at night. A $1-$2 suggested donation is appreciated.

Children’s Events

IN PERSON: Tiny Tykes

Monday, October 24, 10:30am

Tiny Tykes Storytime is designed for young children ages 0 to 18 months. Older siblings are always welcome to join in. Join us for a fun session of stories, songs, fingerplays, instruments, and gentle movement that help build early literacy skills. Babies experience the sounds and structure of language through rhythm, rhyme and repetition.

IN PERSON: Sprouts Story Time

Tuesday, October 25, 10:30am

Sprouts Storytime is designed for is designed for little ones 18 months through 4 years. Get your early literacy skills on with stories, songs, movement, instruments, dancing and more!

IN PERSON: Barks & Books with Benny (*RR)

Tuesday, October 25, 4:30pm-5:30pm

For students reading INDEPENDENTLY in Grades K to 5. Kids (especially those struggling with reading) are invited to sign up for a one-on-one session with our service dog Benny on Tuesday afternoons. Each session lasts for 15 minutes in private - just you, Benny, and his human Mom, Melanie. Bring your own book or borrow one of ours to read. This is a great way to build literacy confidence and fluency with a non-judgmental canine reading partner! Sign up for your 15 minute time slot by registering online or by calling the Children’s Room Desk at 978-640-4496.

IN PERSON: Older Kids Messy Craft

Wednesday, October 26, 3:30pm

For ages 6 to 12. Join us in this new program to explore different messy crafts! We'll have paint, stamps, shaving cream, and Play-Doh available to play with and have fun. While we have smocks available, we encourage wearing old clothes just in case.

IN PERSON: Barks & Books with Misty (*RR)

Wednesday, October 26, 4pm-5pm

For students reading INDEPENDENTLY in Grades K to 5. Kids (especially those struggling with reading) are invited to sign up for a one-on-one session with our service dog Misty on Wednesday afternoons. Each session lasts for 15 minutes in private - just you, Misty, and his human Mom, Dianne. Bring your own book or borrow one of ours to read. This is a great way to build literacy confidence and fluency with a non-judgmental canine reading partner! Sign up for your 15 minute time slot by registering online or by calling the Children’s Room Desk at 978-640-4496.

IN PERSON: Preschool Playgroup

Thursday, October 27, 11am

Introducing our brand new Thursday morning Preschool Playgroup! Learn some literacy skills and have some fun while you're at it! This program is cohosted by Community Teamwork.

IN PERSON: Halloween Magic Show

Saturday, October 29, 10am

TPL is welcoming Ed Popielarczyk, a specialist in Comedy Magic and Balloon Twisting, and a Flea Circus Ring Master, to celebrate Halloween with us! There is a lot of audience participation in this show, so think about if you want to volunteer to help out! This program is designed for kids from 3 to 12.

IN PERSON: Spooky Stuffie Sleepover

Saturday, October 29, 3:30pm

Why do kids get to have all the fun? Drop off your stuffed animal at the library for a spooky Halloween sleepover! Animals will be accepted all day, but if you come at 3:30, you can make a costume for your furry friend in our craft room. Please note: Make sure you don't drop-off a stuffie that you can't sleep without! We will take very good care of them, but they will be staying at the library until Monday.

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