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, Oct. 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 Oct. 22-24. 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, Oct. 24 from 4 to 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,” TFL’s Michelle Fagan, who coordinates the market, said.
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, Oct. 27 from 3:30 to 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, Oct. 31 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. we open the original front doors (on East Main Street) and give away books to kids (birth to 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, Oct. 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: www.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.