In: News

By Kim Brawn, Thompson Free Library

When I lived in California, I missed October in Maine the most—a colorful bubble shielding us from the darkening days and shivering temps to come. Like a screensaver that travels with us—October serves as an evocative backdrop for painting, hiking, foliage drives, walks in the woods, even running errands. You sometimes feel like you’ve walked onto a Hollywood set, with leaves falling on cue. This month the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft has special events and activities to get you out and about on these crisp autumn days. 

If you’ve never attended TFL’s Reading Group (or it’s been a while), now’s the time to jump in (or jump back in). On Thursday, October 8 at 6 p.m. they’ll discuss When We had Wings by Ariel Lawhon, Kristina McMorris, and Susan Meissner. Described by writer Allison Pataki as “a story of strength and sisterhood inspired by the little-known experiences of the ‘Angels of Bataan.’ With gorgeous language and stunning historic detail, [the authors] plunge readers into the Philippines and the epic struggles of the Pacific. Filled with heart and pathos, this is a story of hope, faith, and the power of friendship in the face of indescribable hardship.” (Copies available at TFL.)

Excitement nudges chill out of the air as we approach another Ten Cent Basement Book Sale from 10/22-10/24. Start saving your change for the best deals in town on books for all ages, DVDs, and puzzles. (Hours: Thurs 9-7, Fri 9-5, Sat 9-1 & 4-7). 

Show your support for local creative artists and soak up a festive fall vibe at TFL’s 2nd annual Artisan and Author Night Market on Saturday, October 24 from 4-7 p.m. “Outside there will be local vendors with things like art, pottery, fiber arts, baked goods and more. Inside there will be Maine authors selling and signing books. We will also have the Ten Cent Book Sale in the basement. Last year was a cold but great time. We hope this year will be a bigger crowd and just as fun! Many vendors are returning and are looking forward to coming again,” says TFL’s Michelle Fagan who coordinates the market. 

There probably won’t be any schnitzel or bratwurst in the snack box but gastronomically adventurous souls (ages 12-17) will definitely want to stop by the library on Tuesday, October 27 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. for another edition of the Teen Snack Taste Test. Yes, the next stop is Germany. Give a thumbs up or down (ja or nein) to a variety of interesting foods and have a laid-back time with friends. (And library director Jon will have a good excuse to speak German!)

Of course, Halloween seals the deal for October and is one of Ms. Michelle’s favorite days thanks to her wildly popular “Trick or Treat for Books” program. On Saturday, October 31 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. we open the original front doors (on East Main St.) and give away books to kids (birth-teen). You don’t need to be in costume to get a book but every year quite a collection of creatures climbs those hallowed steps. 

It’s the perfect time to take on the Library Passport Challenge: library superfans can try to collect stamps or signatures from a library in each of Maine’s 16 counties. Those that complete the contest will be recognized by the Maine Library Association and the Maine State Library and be entered into a drawing for prizes. Brochures are available online at https://mainelibraries.org/passport or at the library. 

An all-caps reminder: TFL’s CEREAL DRIVE runs through Friday, October 23—we are collecting boxes of new, unopened cereal for the Piscataquis Regional Food Center. The goal is 500 boxes—we surpassed it last year—let’s do it again! No one should start the day hungry. For those able to donate, be sure to check your store apps for great deals on cereal as many places have sales and coupons. (And please tell your friends and share our posts on social media.)

My two favorite library trees, one in front of Abbott Memorial in Dexter and the other beside us at Thompson Free, are harbingers of change as they turn a brilliant orange. Maybe October is a mood made up of our projections, but wow is it a pretty canvas. This month, visit TFL to discuss a book by a bestselling trio, shop local under bistro lights, expand your teen’s palate, have your “passport” stamped, help fight hunger, and watch your Pokémon-zombie kids walk away with free books—what more could you want?!

TFL hours: Tues & Thurs 9-7, Weds & Fri 9-5, & Sat 9-1. Visit our website: thompsonfreelibrary.org, our Facebook page, Instagram @tf_library, or contact us at thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com or 207/564-3350. All programs are free & open to the public. Free Wi-Fi available 24/7 in the parking lot.

In: News

By Kim Brawn, Thompson Free Library

Great expectations may be the title of a Dickens’ classic, but when it comes to psychology, having high expectations can lead to disappointment. Tempering them—or being so in the moment that you don’t have any—often translates into being pleasantly surprised, which is a very pleasant state of mind. So, here it is: a cautiously optimistic forecast for September at the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft. 

Read and Feed’s Michelle Fagan never knows what to expect when she hits the road with her bundle of books and produce (all are free!) stopping at various area locations. Catch her on September 2 and September 9 (both Wednesdays)—her last two outings of the year. 

Next, we’ll get the chance to dive into a wonderfully relevant history lesson. The Maine Historical Society, the Maine State Library, Foxcroft Academy, and TFL are excited to host the original copy of the Declaration of Independence on September 3-5 at the Jim Robinson Field House. There will be educational activities for local schools, as well as numerous public viewing opportunities. This will be the only chance to see it in Piscataquis County. (Viewing is free but tickets are required: https://mainehistory.rezgo.com/details/424996/declaration-of-independence-tour-foxcroft-academy.)

Growing up in Dexter, Monson was a place we drove through to get to Borestone Mountain, and where they made Moosehead Furniture and Appalachian Trail hikers stayed. Things have changed dramatically (like a James Beard-award-winning restaurant!) in the last decade or so. Now it’s a surprisingly popular Maine destination. Trying to keep up with all that’s going on there is challenging. Thankfully, Rae O’leary from the Monson Collaborative will give us an up-to-date overview at “Exploring Monson 101: Small Town, Big Personality” on Thursday, September 10 at 1:30 p.m.  

At 6 p.m. on September 10, TFL’s Reading Group discusses 1,000 White Women: The Journals of May Dodd by Jim Fergus. It’s the story of a colorful assembly of pioneer women who, under the auspices of the U.S. government, travel to the western prairies in 1875 to intermarry among the Cheyenne Indians. Forrest Gump author Winston Groom describes it as, “A superb tale of sorrow, suspense, exultation, and triumph.” (Copies available at the library.)

Keeping expectations in check when trying a new food is key. Don’t you hate when someone raves about something, then you taste it and it’s like “meh.” Ages 12 through high school: we want your reviews. Our own teen-adjacent queen, Michelle, came up with the “Teen Taste Test” on Tuesday, September 22 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. She shares the deets, “We have a box of South Korean snacks from Universal Yum. We will be trying everything and rating our favorites.”

Thursday, September 24 at 6 p.m. author Dana Green talks about his book, Maine A Short Story Collection: Mysteries of Rural & Seacoast Life including his award-winning story “This World Will Remember Me.” His collection of 14 heartfelt stories, set in 1950-2000, are uplifting, nostalgic, and psychological thrillers full of suspense that feel like modern day fables. 

Having any expectations at all, ever, when it comes to cats is kind of crazy. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t exquisite and lovable creatures, be sure to join us for another episode of “Caturday” on Saturday, September 26. Be prepared to be smitten and possibly ignored. 

Fall means TFL’s youth services librarian Michelle dons her homeschool hat and knows some of you might have questions. If you are a new or seasoned homeschool family and are looking for a way to add the library into the mix, reach out to Michelle and she will happily help you find something that might work for you and your family.  

If you’re in the mood for a road trip—or several—and are a library superfan or even library curious this contest sounds really cool, as do the prizes. TFL’s director Jon Knepp gives us the scoop: “September is Library Card Signup Month and the Maine Library Association in partnership with the Maine State Library is starting its Library Passport Contest to celebrate! Brochures will be available online at mainelibraries.org/passport or at the library and library superfans can try to collect stamps and signatures from a library in each of Maine’s 16 counties. Those that complete the contest will be recognized by MLA and MSL and be entered into a drawing for prizes. We have prizes from LL Bean, Briar Patch Book Store, Shaw’s, Hannaford, and The Maine Whoopie Pie Festival and hope to add more sponsors, as well as collect library merch from around the state to hand out.”

People from all over the country stop in at TFL and most are pleasantly surprised to find a library like ours—and all that we offer—in a small town in rural Maine. We’ve exceeded expectations just by being who we are and doing what we do. September is the perfect time to flash your library card proudly—or finally sign up for one—and hit the trail, exploring up and down and across our great state. 

Please note: the library will be closed Tuesday, September 8 for the Labor Day holiday. We apologize for any inconvenience. 

TFL hours: Tues & Thurs 9-7, Weds & Fri 9-5, & Sat 9-1. Visit our website: thompsonfreelibrary.org, our Facebook page, Instagram @tf_library, or contact us at thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com or 207/564-3350. All programs are free & open to the public. Free Wi-Fi available 24/7 in the parking lot. 

 

In: News

by Kim Brawn

We are so lucky to have such incredible forests, lakes, and mountains in our backyard. One of my favorite drives is around Moosehead Lake, especially in autumn, stopping in Rockwood to get a closer look at monolithic Mount Kineo, rising from the choppy waters. The Thompson Free Library, with its Dover-Foxcroft location, is a gateway to so many different ecosystems and opportunities. Our August line-up highlights that diversity.

The Moosehead Regional Land Trust will hold their annual meeting outside in the TFL Pavilion on Saturday, August 1 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. The Land Trust works to conserve and protect the headwaters of the Kennebec and Penobscot watersheds and to sustain public access to land in the Moosehead region. If you’ve ever wondered how to conserve your own beloved piece of Maine land, you’ll want to hear guest speaker Jerry Bley’s thoughts on the topic. Jerry is a prominent land use and environmental conservation consultant and founder of Creative Conservation, LLC. For decades he’s helped conserve Maine’s working forests, coastal regions, and community spaces. (This event is free and open to the public.)

You’ll have a whale of a tale to tell after attending “Within the Whale” on Thursday, August 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Central Hall Commons. Get a whale tour, along with educational activities, while standing inside a life-size inflatable humpback. (Geared towards elementary ages but all are welcome.)

Some Reel People call themselves a “joyous and ever-evolving traditional country dance band from the Dexter area.” They’re also Real Popular thanks to the combined sounds of fiddles, guitars, mandolin, recorder, banjo, bass, and accordions that will make you want to dance! They’ll be in concert at TFL on August 6 at 6 p.m.

When the walls—well, dominoes—come tumbling down—no worries, it’s just part of the fun. Build and topple towers and more with local domino expert Jewel Anderson on Wednesday, August 12 at 1 p.m. Bring patience, a steady hand, and a sense of humor. Piscataquis 4-H will provide light refreshments. (All ages welcome.)

Ok, bane of our existence is over the top, but it’s definitely a sticky wicket, thorn in our side, a pain-in-the-you-know-what type of thing: how to eat better on a tight budget. Pick up lots of good info at “Living Well, Eating Well 101: Budget-friendly Tips for Long-term Health” on Thursday, August 13 at 1:30 p.m. Kate Yerxa, MS, RD with UMaine Cooperative Extension, shares kitchen swaps, shopping strategies, and low-cost, flavorful meal ideas geared to protect your heart, manage blood sugar, and help you reach and maintain a healthy weight.

At 6 p.m. on August 13, TFL’s Reading Group discusses Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. From the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of All the Light We Cannot See, comes this bestseller that is a “wildly inventive, a humane and uplifting book for adults that’s infused with the magic of childhood reading experiences” (The New York Times Book Review).

Every year it wins raves and creates special memories, mark your calendars for the “End of Summer Reading Party” on Friday, August 14 from 5-7 p.m. We’ll pick the summer reading raffle winners, have games, play laser tag, and enjoy the bounce house! Penquis Prevention Council will be back again to cook up a free barbecue. Remember to turn reading logs in by 4 p.m.—raffle drawing at 5:30. (All are welcome even those who did not participate in summer reading.)

Maine author and fly-fishing guide Ryan Brod stops by the library on Thursday, August 20 at 6 p.m. to discuss his book Tributaries. In this collection of outdoor essays, “Brod’s passion and respect for the creatures, their habitat and dignity, infuse each page with his lyrical prose. Luxuriant with detail, these essays usher the reader toward the intersection of flora, fauna, family, and friendship. Ultimately, Tributaries leaves us with a deeper awareness of our own personal ecosystems” (Author Catharine Murray).

We’re showcasing the captivating artwork of a young local artist named Sakura who is going into eighth grade this year. She’s self-taught, paints mostly pop-surrealism, and her favorite artist is Salvador Dali.

Our Read and Feed program is still in full swing as TFL’s Michelle Fagan drives around the area each Wednesday giving away free books and fresh produce at designated locations. (For more details, contact the library.)

Be sure to catch the last few sessions of Reading with Erma. April and Erma will be at the library helping kids brush up on their reading skills Tuesdays at 2 p.m. on August 4, 11, & 18.

Libraries act as ecosystems and gateways, mirroring the communities and the landscapes around us, and hopefully providing resources for all to thrive, flourish, and live better. We’re constantly reminded of our interconnectedness, whether on top of Mt. Kineo or checking out books at the circulation desk. Summer may be winding down, but we’re not slowing down—take advantage of August and everything after at TFL.

TFL hours: Tues & Thurs 9-7, Weds & Fri 9-5, & Sat 9-1. Visit our website: thompsonfreelibrary.org, our Facebook page, Instagram @tf_library, or contact us at thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com or 207/564-3350. All programs are free & open to the public. Free Wi-Fi available 24/7 in the parking lot.

In: Events, News

Travel can be life-changing. It can recharge you, inspire you, relax you, teach you. It’s also expensive, and the preparation and journey itself can test your patience, whether it’s a family getaway to the Grand Canyon, a European vacation, or even a day trip to Portland. Whatever your summer travel goals, reading is an excellent, hassle-free way to explore new places and ideas. Take a globe-trotting or cross-country adventure from the comfort of your own home. This summer make plans to have fun and save money by checking out lots of books and coming to free programs at the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft. 

Excitement is in the air: international bestselling author (and Maine resident) Tess Gerritsen is coming to TFL on Thursday, June 4 at 6 p.m. for a talk and book signing. Tess is a Stanford graduate who went on to medical school and began writing her first novel in 1987 while on maternity leave. She’s best known for her books featuring homicide detective Jane Rizzoli and medical examiner Maura Isles that inspired the hit television series Rizzoli & Isles. The Shadow Friends, the third book in her popular Martini Club series about a group of retired CIA operatives living on the Maine coast, is due out August 25. 

In June, we shift our focus to the outdoors, specifically our own property, so we’re teaming up with Piscataquis County Soil & Water to bring you “Landowner 101” with Maine Forest Service’s Jim Ferrante on Thursday, June 11 at 1:30 p.m. Landowners manage their woodlots, fields, and yards for a number of different reasons: esthetics, firewood, recreation, wildlife, maintaining health and value, and forest products. Jim is passionate and knowledgeable about the subject matter, and his overview will provide lots of useful information on how to sustainably manage your land.  

TFL’s Reading Group will discuss The Berlin Letters by Katherine Reay on June 11 at 6 p.m. Booklist gave it a starred review, noting that “Fans of codebreakers, spies, and Cold War dramas will be entrapped by Reay’s tale of courage, love, and honor set against the rise and fall of the Berlin Wall.” (Contact the library for a copy.)

The start of TFL’s Summer Concert Series is music to our ears! Come listen to the Alumni Band on Thursday, June 18 at 6 p.m. They’re back with another eclectic soundtrack of big band classics, swing and Latin dance tunes, and pop favorites. Reshelving books to the Mission Impossible theme is my kind of vibe. (Bring a lawn chair if you can.)

Sharing a love of reading with your kids is an incredible gift. Oh, the places they’ll go. Tuesday, June 23-Saturday, June 27 is youth summer reading sign-ups. Birth-12th grade can sign up for independent reading programs to earn a free book, fair pass, and a chance to win a prize. Adults can get in on the act too: every time you come into the library, fill out a slip to win a prize. 

For children who need to brush up on their skills, Reading with Erma is a welcome approach that starts June 23 at 2 p.m. April Taylor brings her beloved dog Erma to the library creating a safe space for young readers to gain confidence. (Weekly through August 18. Sign up or drop by.)

No need to drive far to party down. Join us at TFL’s Summer Reading Kick-off Party from 4-6 p.m. on June 23. We’ll have activities, a BBQ put on by the Penquis Prevention Council, free books from April and Erma, and Darlings Ice Cream for A Cause will be there to collect donations for the Piscataquis Regional Food Center. 

Tap your toes to timeless tunes and rousing marches at the Harold J. Crosby Band concert on Thursday, June 25 at 6 p.m. 

Adjectives like “wow” and “amazing” are flying left and right as people of all ages admire the artwork of 6-year-old Avery Browne. Come see his Bob Ross-inspired art display at the library. 

If only there was a place to access free books and music, meet famous authors, win prizes, attend parties, greet a sweet dog, learn useful stuff, chat with other book lovers, and keep the kids busy. As you map out your summer plans, make sure to start with the Thompson Free Library—the best destination around. (Ok, I might be biased. ☺)

Please note: TFL will close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30 due to a conference. 

TFL hours: Tues & Thurs 9-7, Weds & Fri 9-5, & Sat 9-1. Visit our website: thompsonfreelibrary.org, our Facebook page, Instagram @tf_library, or contact us at thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com or 207/564-3350. All programs are free & open to the public. Free Wi-Fi available 24/7 in the parking lot.

In: Events, News

By Kim Brawn, Thompson Free Library

“Variety is the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavor.” The line is from an 18th-century poem by William Cowper and captures what many of us like best about working in a 21st-century library: the diverse experiences, people, tasks, and conversations. Book and program topics range wildly, as do people’s interests. Anyone can explore almost anything. May at the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft is as varied the month itself.

It’s more important than ever to fulfill our civic duty. That’s why the Highlands Regional League of Women Voters of Maine is holding a non-partisan candidate forum at the library on Tuesday, May 5 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for all declared Dover-Foxcroft Select Board candidates. A great chance to ask questions about local issues that matter to you.

We’re still in voter mode as the LWV offers a “Guide to the June 2026 Primary Elections” on Tuesday, May 12 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. They’ll cover political party vs. unenrolled voters and also explain semi-open primaries and ranked choice voting. It’s a practical way to get ready for the June 9 primaries.

Multi-talented Gale Robinson (Leaves and Blooms Greenhouse) is back with another fun and easy craft project on Thursday, May 14 at 1:30 p.m. with “Decoupage 101: Mason Jar Tissue Holder.” She’ll guide us through transforming a quart-size mason jar into a decorative tissue holder by applying patterned napkins, tissue paper, or fabric—creating a fabulous and functional decor piece. (All supplies provided.)

TFL’s Reading Group chooses books that run the gamut which make for engaging discussions. They’ll share their thoughts about The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker on May 14 at 6 p.m. From The Guardian’s review: “On a university campus in Southern California, a college student falls asleep and cannot be woken. Over the following weeks, an inexplicable sleeping sickness sweeps through the nearby town, causing an epidemic that baffles medical experts and puts the community in quarantine. . . Lyrical and beguiling, The Dreamers is a deeply immersive novel about a community in peril, collective hysteria, and the moral, emotional, individual and group choices we make when our lives, and those of our loved ones, are in danger.” (Contact the library for a copy. New group members welcome.)

With a title that nails the chaotic and uncomfortable state of limbo where many caregivers exist, Neither Wife nor Widow author Dale Ruth Sherburne visits the library to talk about her book on Thursday, May 21 at 6 p.m. It’s described as “a riveting, straight-from-the-trenches memoir about the emotions experienced while caregiving for a family member with dementia. Through dozens of conversational vignettes, the author bares her feelings with raw, unapologetic honesty. Stories range from humorous to touching to wrenching, and shed a previously unseen light into a caregiver’s mind.” Dale is a Maine native who raised two daughters with her husband, Russ, in an 1850s farmhouse with a menagerie of beloved pets.

Now we make a U-turn back to one of our favorite subjects—the paranormal—with author, researcher, and content creator Nomar Slevik. He’s come to TFL before to talk about UFOs Over Maine and Humanoid Encounters. This time, he plans to share some stories from his new book In The Pines: True Stories of Mystery, Mayhem, and Monsters in Maine. His latest work includes unexplained encounters of everyday Mainers. From crop circles and spontaneous human combustion to alien visitations and bizarre true crime, each account reveals a side of the Pine Tree State that is as unsettling as it is unforgettable.

The seasonal shift is almost complete. We have free passes to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay (opens 5/1) Discovery Museum in Bangor, Harrigan Museum in Milo, Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland, Center Theatre and the Maine State Parks Vehicle Pass (Peaks-Kenny opens 5/15) to loan out to our patrons. (Contact the library for details.)

You’ll want to keep these scheduling updates in mind: TFL will close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19 due to a staffing issue and we will be closed on Tuesday, May 26 for the Memorial Day holiday. We apologize for any inconvenience.

In the spice rack of months, May might be cardamom: aromatic (think chai latte!), warm, fresh with complex flavors that can be sweet, minty, and citrusy. Flowers blooming, greenery popping, energy shifting. This month join us for a wide-ranging mix of activities—maybe even try a new author or genre—and kick things up a notch. Variety is the spice of libraries too!

TFL hours: Tues & Thurs 9-7, Weds & Fri 9-5, & Sat 9-1. Visit our website: thompsonfreelibrary.org, our Facebook page, Instagram @tf_library, or contact us at thompsonfreelibrary@gmail.com or 207/564-3350. All programs are free & open to the public. Free Wi-Fi available 24/7 in the parking lot.