Forbes Library Has a New Look! This week the library launched a new logo that is inspired by the shape of the sandstone arch over the front doors and also suggests the open pages of a book. This new visual identity reflects the fact that Forbes Library is much more than a building. It is a welcoming community hub where people can gather to find solace, resources, and inspiration. Thank you to strategic brand consultant Seth Gregory for developing the logo and style guide, and to the Friends of Forbes Library for their support!
Once again, lovers of gardens and Forbes Library may explore six delightful home gardens featured on this year’s 29th Annual Forbes Library Northampton Garden Tour. The Tour raises funds for the Friends of Forbes Library, Inc. that supports Northampton’s historic public library.
Tour tickets are $20 if bought in advance; tickets are available from May 1 to June 9 at Bay State Perennial Farm (Whately), Cooper’s Corner, State Street Fruit Store, Gardener’s Supply Company/Hadley, Wanczyk’s Nursery and Forbes Library.
On Saturday, June 10th, tour day, tickets are $25 and available ONLY at Forbes Library from 10:00-1:00.
The Northampton Garden Tour also offers a raffle of items that appeal to both gardeners and other library supporters. Purchase raffle tickets at one of the gardens on the day of the tour.
All proceeds benefit the Friends of Forbes Library, Inc. to support library programs, events, and projects that could not otherwise be funded.
The Board of Trustees is the governing body for Forbes Library, responsible for the hiring and evaluation of the director and the oversight of the library budget and policies. As an example, a few years ago Forbes Library eliminated fines after the Trustees voted on and approved this new policy. Trustees also fundraise and advocate for the library. These important roles are filled by five people, elected by the residents of Northampton in the general election.
Three of these five seats will be on the ballot in November. One incumbent trustee is running for re-election and two incumbents have decided not to run again.
Tem Blessed will use Hip Hop music, storytelling, and spoken word poetry to explore and promote a culture of peace and love in the community. The 1 hr performance is engaging and relatable to youth in their language while addressing mature concepts of sustainability, empathy, and tolerance. Tem Blessed will challenge the audience to look within themselves, internalizing challenges and values of community and personal responsibility through his presentation and themes found in his graphic novel. The presentation is educational, fun, interactive, and entertaining and great for people ages 9+.
This program is supported by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Join us on Zoom to discuss this month's book, After Zero by Christina Collins. For ages 8-14. Email childrens@forbeslibrary.org to register and receive the Zoom meeting link!
About After Zero: "When Elise leaves homeschooling for public school, she copes by speaking as little as possible, but soon her silence becomes an impediment to friendship and to dealing with family secrets."
Are you curious about how to get started on a family tree or use census records to explore the history of your neighborhood or house? Book an appointment with Brian Tabor, recently retired Forbes Library circulation manager and genealogist, and learn how to research using resources such as Ancestry, Heritage Quest and American Ancestors databases.
An American in Provence is a beautiful collection of exquisite portrait, scenic, and still-life photography from New York Times bestselling author and award-winning photographer Jamie Beck. Looking to slow down from her fast-paced life in New York City, Beck embarked on a one-year getaway to Provence. One year, turning into five, Beck moved to the French countryside, documenting her life as “An American in Provence.”
Equal parts art book, travel diary, memoir, and cookbook, An American in Provence transports you to the South of France. Beck shares her tips and techniques for creating incredible photos and details her transformational journey as an artist and woman. Beck also includes farm-to-table recipes she's learned along the way, including Braised Beef Stew, Spring Chicken with Herbs de Provence, Fresh Tagliatelle Pasta with Spring Asparagus, and Lemon Meringue Tart. This stunning visual journey will surely delight anyone wishing to escape reality and immerse themselves in life in Provence.
Join us for a live concert on the lawn by 2023 Grammy Nominee for Best Children's Music Album, Divinity Roxx! Divinity will also read from one of her children's books and invite the audience to create a song with her.
Divinity Roxx is a multi-hyphenate Grammy nominated musician, recording artist, and composer who is celebrated for her ability to inspire others with her infectious grooves and memorable lyrics.
This event will take place on the library lawn. In the event of inclement weather, it will be moved inside to the Community Room.
This program is supported by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Paintings by William Sharp and Michelle Vigeant; Mixed Media by Alicia Saxe
June 2-29, 2023
Donations Needed
for Neighborhood Free Book Boxes
We need picture books, board books, chapter books and YA books! Donations can be brought to the Children's Department at Forbes.
In collaboration with Lilly Library, beautifully refurbished newspaper boxes provide children, teens and adults access to free books in their neighborhoods. Boxes are replenished weekly by staff and volunteers, assuring that they remain neat, clean and easily accessible. Help us to keep these book boxes thriving!
In addition to this newsletter, we have several other lists you can sign up for to receive news about film programs at the library, new and bestselling books, local history events, and more.