Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Topsham Public Library A community center for all ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://topshamlibrary.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Library News](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/) - [This Week at the Library July 20 - July 25, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-july-20-july-25-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-july-20-july-25-2026 - [This Week at the Library July 15 - July 18, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-july-15-july-18-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-july-15-july-18-2025 - [This Week at the Library July 6 - July 11, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-july-6-july-11-2026/) - Here this week's newsletter (link goes live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-july-6-july-11-2026 - [This Week at the Library June 29 - July 4, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-29-july-4-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-29-july-4-2026 - [This Week at the Library June 22 - June 27, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-22-june-27-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link goes live Saturday afternoon!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-22-june-27-2026 - [What’s happening in the garden?](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-gardens/whats-happening-in-the-garden/) - In our recent community survey, better use of our outdoor space was your highest priority. As a result, the library is growing its outdoor area into an even more vibrant, welcoming space for all. Thanks to a generous donation to kick-off our spring fundraising goal, we are beginning with a project to honor former Gallery - [This Week at the Library June 15 - June 20, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-15-june-20-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live on Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-15-june-20-2026 - [This Week at the Library June 8 - June 13, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-8-june-13-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-8-june-13-2026 - [This Week at the Library June 1 - June 6, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-1-june-6-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-1-june-6-2026 - [This Week at the Library May 25 - May 30, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-25-may-30-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will be live on Saturday afternoon)https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-25-may-30-2026 - [This Week at the Library May 18 - May 23, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-18-may-23-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-18-may-23-2026 - [This Week at the Library May 11 - May 16, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-11-may-16-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live on Saturday afternoon.https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-11-may-16-2026 - [This Week at the Library May 4 - May 9, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-4-may-9-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will be live on Saturday after 4:15pm:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-4-may-9-2025 - [This Week at the Library April 27 - May 2, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-27-may-2-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter (link goes live Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-27-may-2-2026 - [This Week at the Library April 20 - April 25, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-20-april-25-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live on Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-20-april-25-2026 - [This Week at the Library April 13 - April 18, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-13-april-18-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link goes live on Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-13-april-18 - [This Week at the Library April 6 - April 11, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-6-april-11-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live on Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-6-april-11-2026 - [Library Trustees Wanted](https://topshamlibrary.org/update/library-trustees-wanted/) - The Topsham Public Library is seeking new board members for FY27. The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the library. It is responsible for setting policies and overseeing the overall operation of the library as implemented by the Library Director. Trustees serve three-year terms and meet once monthly, usually on the third Wednesday - [This Week at the Library March 30 - April 4, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-30-april-4-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-30-april-4-2026 - [This Week at the Library March 23 - March 28, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-23-march-28-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter (link will go live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-23-march-28-2026 - [This Week at the Library March 16 - March 21, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-16-march-21-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter (link will go live Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-16-march-21-2026 - [This Week at the Library March 9 - March 14, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-9-march-14-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-9-march-14-2026 - [This Week at the Library February 23 - February 28, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-february-23-february-28-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will be live on Saturday afternoon.https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-february-23-february-28-2026 - [This Week at the Library February 16 - February 21, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-february-16-february-21-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link goes live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-february-16-february-21-2026 - [This Week at the Library February 9 - February 14 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-february-9-february-14-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter. Link will be live on Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-february-9-february-14 - [This Week at the Library February 2 - February 7 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-february-2-february-7-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter (link goes live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-february-2-february-7-2026 - [This Week at the Library January 26 - January 31 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-january-26-january-31-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live on Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-january-26-january-31-2026 - [This Week at the Library January 19 - January 24 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-january-19-january-24-2026/) - This week's newsletter (link goes live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-january-19-january-24-2025 - [This Week at the Library January 12 - January 17 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-january-12-january-17-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link goes live on Saturday at 4:15pm:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-january-12-january-17-2026 - [This Week at the Library January 5 - January 10 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-january-5-january-10-2026/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live on Saturday afternoon:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-january-5-january-10-2026 - [This Week at the Library December 29, 2025 - January 3, 2026](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-december-29-2025-january-3-2026/) - Here's next week's newsletter (link will go live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-december-29-january-3 - [This Week at the Library December 22 - December 27, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-december-22-december-27-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-december-22-december-27-2025 - [This Week at the Library December 15 - December 20, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-december-15-december-20-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter (link becomes live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-december-15-december-20-2025 - [This Week at the Library December 8 - December 13, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-december-8-december-13-2025/) - This week's newsletter (link will be live on Saturday at 4:15pm):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-december-8-december-13-2025 - [This Week at the Library December 1 - December 6, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-december-1-december-6-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live on Saturday afternoon):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-december-1-december-6-2025 - [Thank you all for your donations!](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/thank-you-all-for-your-donations/) - Please note that our food drive ends on Thanksgiving. That means your last day to donate is Wednesday, November 26th. Thank you all so much for your donations. We have been happily overwhelmed with all you have given. Topsham folk really are the best! - [This Week at the Library November 24 - November 29, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-november-24-november-29-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter! Link will go live on Saturday at 4:15pm:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-november-24-november-29-2025 - [This Week at the Library November 17 - November 22, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-november-17-november-22-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live after 4:15pm on Saturday):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-november-17-november-22-2025 - [Final Friday Night Movie Fright is Tonight!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/final-friday-night-movie-fright-is-tonight/) - A reminder that we will be showing our final scary movie tonight (11/7/25) at 6pm. We'll be showing... The Blair Witch Project Three student filmmakers set out into the forest to film a documentary on a legend known as The Blair Witch. As they become lost in the woods, an unseen evil begins to stalk - [This Week at the Library November 10 - November 15, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-november-10-november-15-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter (link becomes live on Saturday at 4:15pm):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-november-10-november-15-2025 - [This Week at the Library November 3 - November 8, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-november-3-november-8-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will go live on Saturday after 4:15pm):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-november-3-november-8-2025 - [Food Drive for MCHPP](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/food-drive-for-mchpp/) - We are doing a food drive for the Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program! There is a labeled box in the gallery to drop your donations in if you decide to give. Here's more information and food donation guidelines: https://www.mchpp.org/drives - [This Week at the Library October 27 - November 1, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-october-27-november-1-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-october-27-november-1-2025 - [This Week at the Library October 20 - October 25, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-october-20-october-25-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-october-20-october-25-2025 - [Open House on Saturday, October 18th!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/open-house-on-saturday-october-18th/) - For more details visit: https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/announcement-open-house-2025 - [This Week at the Library October 6 - October 11, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/uncategorized/this-week-at-the-library-october-6-october-11-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will be live after 4:15pm on Saturday!)https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-october-6-october-11-2025 - [Friday Night Movie Frights at the Topsham Public Library!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/friday-night-movie-frights-at-the-topsham-public-library/) - Celebrate spooky season with the Topsham Public Library. For the first four Fridays in October, join us after hours at 6pm to watch a horror classic! Popcorn will be served. Themed outfits are encouraged! Here's what we're showing! Oct. 3rd at 6pmBeetlejuice After Barbara and Adam Maitland die in a car accident, they find themselves - [This Week at the Library September 29 - October 4, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-september-29-october-4-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-september-29-october-4-2025 - [This Week at the Library September 22 - September 27, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-september-22-september-27-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-september-22-september-27-2025 - [This Week at the Library September 15 - September 20, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-september-15-september-20-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-september-15-september-20-2025 - [Free Day at Maine State Parks for Library Card Holders on September 20](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/free-day-at-maine-state-parks-for-library-card-holders-on-september-20/) - Another reason to get a library card this Library Card Sign-Up Month!To check which parks are participating, you can visit https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13266042 - [This Week at the Library September 8 - September 13, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-september-8-september-13-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!Link will be live after 4:15pm on Saturdayhttps://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-september-8-september-13-2025 - [This Week at the Library September 1 - September 6, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-september-1-september-6-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-september-1-september-6-2025 - [This Week at the Library August 25 - August 30, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-august-25-august-30-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-august-25-august-30-2025 - [This Week at the Library August 18 - August 23, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-august-18-august-23-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-august-18-august-23-2025 - [This Week at the Library July 28 - August 2, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-july-28-august-2-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-july-28-august-2-2025 - [This Week at the Library July 21 - July 26, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-july-21-july-26-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-july-21-july-26-2025 - [This Week at the Library July 14 - July 19, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-july-14-july-19-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-july-14-july-19-2025 - [This Week at the Library June 30 - July 5, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-30-july-5-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter! (Link will become active on Saturday at 4:15pm):https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-30-july-5-2025 - [July's Online Author Talks](https://topshamlibrary.org/author-talks/julys-online-author-talks/) - Here's July's online author talks:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/author-webinars-july-2025 - [This Week at the Library June 23 - June 28, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-23-june-28-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-23-june-28-2025 - [This Week at the Library June 16 - June 21, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-16-june-21-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-16-june-21-2025 - [This Week at the Library June 9 - June 14, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-9-june-14-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-9-june-14-2025 - [This Week at the Library June 2 - June 7, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-june-2-june-7-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-june-2-june-7-2025 - [This Week at the Library May 26 - May 31, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-26-may-31-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-26-may-31-2025 - [This Week at the Library May 19 - May 24, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-19-may-24-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-19-may-24-2025 - [This Week at the Library May 12 - May 17, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-12-may-17-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-12-may-17-2025 - [This Week at the Library May 5 - May 10, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-may-5-may-10-2025/) - Here's the next newsletter! The link will work after it has been emailed to our patrons on Saturday, May 10th at 4:15pm.https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-may-5-may-10 - [This Week at the Library April 28 - May 3, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-28-may-3-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-28-may-3 - [This Week at the Library April 21 - April 26, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-21-april-26-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-21-april-26 - [This Week at the Library April 14 - April 19, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-14-april-19-2025/) - This week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-14-april-19 - [This Week at the Library April 7 - April 12, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-april-7-april-12-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-april-7-april-12-2025 - [This Week at the Library March 30 - April 5, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-30-april-5-2025/) - This week's newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-31-april-5-2025 - [This Week at the Library March 24 - March 29, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-24-march-29-2025/) - This week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-24-march-29-2025 - [This Week at the Library March 17-22, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-17-22-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-17-march-22-2025 - [New Library Board Members Wanted!](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/new-library-board-members-wanted/) - The Topsham Public Library is seeking new board members for FY26. The Board of Trustees is the governing board responsible for setting policies and overseeing the overall operation of the library as implemented by the Library Director. Trustees serve three-year terms and meet once monthly, usually on the third Wednesday of each month, with additional - [This Week's Newsletter March 3 - March 8, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-weeks-newsletter-march-3-march-8-2025/) - Here's what's happening at the library this week:https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-3-march-8-2025 - [This Week at the Library February 17 - February 22, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-february-17-february-22-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-february-17-february-22-2025 - [This Week's Newsletter February 24 - March 1, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-weeks-newsletter-february-24-march-1-2025/) - Here's this week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-february-24-march-1 - [This Week at the Library March 10 - March 15, 2025](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-news/this-week-at-the-library-march-10-march-15-2025/) - This week's newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/topshamlibrary/this-week-at-topsham-public-library-march-10-march-15 - [Community Survey](https://topshamlibrary.org/news/community-survey/) - The Topsham Public Library is the in process of gathering information to help create our new long-range plan which will go into effect at the start of our new fiscal year in July. We would like feedback from the community about what we are doing well, what we could improve upon, and where the library - [Katherine Webber Named as New Director of Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/news/katherine-webber-named-as-new-director-of-topsham-public-library/) - The Board of Trustees of the Topsham Public Library is pleased to announce the hiring of a new director. After an extensive search, the board has selected Katherine Webber, most recently of Lewiston Public Library, where she has worked for the past eight years as the Lending Services Librarian and Interim Library Director. Webber has - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Monique!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-monique/) - Monique’s Top 5 of 2023 Here is our final top 5 of 2023! Here's to more reading/listening/watching and playing in 2024! - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Dale!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-dale/) - Dale’s Top 5 of 2023 - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Susan!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-susan/) - Susan’s Top 5 of 2023 - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Lynne!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-lynne/) - Lynne’s Top 5 of 2023 - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Emily!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-emily/) - Emily’s Top 5 of 2023 - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Mariah!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-mariah/) - Mariah’s Top 5 of 2023 Show: Shrinking I loved this show! There is so much tenderness and vulnerability in all of the characters as they grapple with various forms of grief and loss but also love and joy. It also made me laugh until I cried (episode 6, I’m looking at you). Show: Lessons in - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Jennifer!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-jennifer/) - Jennifer’s Top 5 of 2023 The Secret Hours by Mick Herron – For those of you who love Slow Horses (book one in the series written by Herron and also an award-winning TV series in its third season), this is a prequel that works well as a stand alone novel. This series delves into the - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Tami!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-tami/) - Tami’s Top 5 of 2023 - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Emma!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-emma/) - Emma’s Top 5 of 2023 Special mention: I haven't quite finished this book, but I already know it's one of my favorites of the year! - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Sam!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-sam/) - Sam’s Top 5 of 2023 - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Shantelle!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-shantelle/) - Shantelle’s Top 5 of 2023 - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 – Linda!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-linda/) - Next up, it's our resident mystery expert, Linda! Linda’s Top 5 of 2023 The Maid/Nita Prose The main character in this book, Molly the Maid, is neurodivergent, probably on the autism spectrum. She is socially awkward because she has a difficult time reading people, and she loves cleanliness. Every day she goes happily to her job - [TPL Staff Picks 2023 - Cyndi!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tpl-staff-picks-2023-cyndi/) - It's that time of year, when we look back at our reading/viewing/playing lists and see what made our top 5! First up, here's Cyndi's: Cyndi's Top 5 of 2023 - [The Season of Hope](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/the-season-of-hope/) - We have endured some very stormy weather together and while the effects of it may be lingering, signs of hope and renewal are popping up all around. We understand what it feels like to hold that hope close and allow ourselves to be excited for sunnier days. The buildup of that anticipation, however, can cause - [CareerCenter at TPL](https://topshamlibrary.org/libraries-build-business/careercenter-at-tpl/) - Are you familiar with CareerCenter of Maine? Maine CareerCenters provide a variety of employment and training services at no charge for Maine workers and businesses. Whether you are looking to improve your job qualifications, explore a different profession, find a new career or start a new business, the CareerCenter can help. Now, you can schedule - [Word of the Month](https://topshamlibrary.org/word-of-the-month/word-of-the-month/) - Hello and welcome to a new monthly feature here on our blog! Every month we will share a unique word - perhaps a lesser known one, perhaps a long forgotten one, perhaps one borrowed from another language. We hope you will enjoy this feature and will maybe even add a new word here and there - [Word of the Month - June 2021](https://topshamlibrary.org/word-of-the-month/word-of-the-month-june-2021/) - There are books that while reading one may come across an unfamiliar word or two. Then there are books that require tucking in a sheet of paper to keep a list. The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova was one such book for me when I first read it so many years ago. Among the words on - [Word of the Month - July 2021](https://topshamlibrary.org/word-of-the-month/word-of-the-month-july-2021/) - This month's word is one every lover of stories - whether in book, movie, or play form - might like to know. It is a word borrowed from French, derived from Latin, and literally means “untie the knot" - referring to the narrative entanglements an author has woven through the stages of plot development. (source) - [Genres You May Have Read but Not Heard Of](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/genres/genres-you-may-have-read-but-not-heard-of/) - A search on genres of literature will get you a multitude of responses: what the main genres are, how many main genres there are, whether or not there are sub-genres or only categories of main genres. The perspective of the TPL librarians? Genres and various sub-genres can be very helpful in identifying your interests and - [Word of the Month - August 2021](https://topshamlibrary.org/word-of-the-month/word-of-the-month-august-2021/) - Our word for August, sagacity, means incisive wisdom or sharp discernment; the quality of having or showing understanding and the ability to make good judgments (source); the quality of being wise and farsighted (source). One famous example of its usage comes from Mary Shelley in Frankenstein: "I had sagacity enough to discover that the unnatural hideousness - [Staff Picks 2021, Part 1](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2021-part-1/) - It is just about time to say a proper goodbye to 2021 and that means it's time to reflect on some of our favorite reads (or listens or watches). Have we read something out of our genre comfort zones? Have we been exploring particular interests? Were we in need some feel-good stories? Let's find out - [Staff Picks 2021, Part II](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2021-part-ii/) - We are back to share more of our staff picks from 2021. In this round we hear from Julie, Emily, and Jen. Julie's Top Picks Who needed some happy endings... Emily's Top Picks Books: Movies: Podcasts: Jen's Top Picks Audiobooks: - [Staff Picks 2021, Part III](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2021-part-iii/) - This is the next to last installation of staff favorites from last year and in this roundup we share top picks from Mariah, Cyndi, and Dale. Mariah's Top Picks: Ted Lasso, Apple TV series Dale's Top Picks: Cyndi's Top Picks: Teen Fiction: Teen Graphic Novels: Adult Non-Fiction: Later this week, for the final installation of - [Staff Picks 2021, Part IV](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2021-part-iv/) - This is the final installment of staff picks from 2021. We hope you have enjoyed this glimpse into some of our favorite reads, listens, and watches from last year. Linda's Top Picks: Monique's Top Picks: - [CC, SDH, and Other DVD Accessibility Features](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/cc-sdh-and-other-dvd-accessibility-features/) - We regularly have patrons looking for DVDs and Blu-rays with closed captioning or subtitles, and while it should be clearly indicated on the case, it isn’t always so easy to tell exactly which service is available. Looking them up in our library catalogue is another way to tell. It should list the features in the - [Books (and More) We Loved in 2022 Part 1!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/books-and-more-we-loved-in-2022-part-1/) - We're a little late with our top picks this year, so as it is February, we thought we'd keep with the theme and tell you the books (and media), the Topsham Public Library staff loved last year! From Jennifer:In no particular order here are my top picks of 2022: Extraordinary, Ordinary People by Condoleezza Rice - [Books (and More) We Loved in 2022 Part 2!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/books-and-more-we-loved-in-2022-part-2/) - Here are Tami's top reading for 2022! The Rockton Series by Kelley Armstrong City of the Lost A Darkness Absolute This Fallen Prey Watcher in the Woods Alone in the Wild A Stranger in Town The Deepest of Secrets And by Anne LaBastille Woodswoman Beyond Black Bear Lake Here are Cyndi's picks: Teen Adult - [Books (and More) We Loved in 2022 Part 3!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/books-and-more-we-loved-in-2022-part-3/) - Here's Emily's favorites from 2022! Sam's picks are: - [Books (and More) We Loved in 2022 Part 4!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/books-and-more-we-loved-in-2022-part-4/) - Mariah's turn! BRELAND Cross Country SUCH a good album! Track 8 made me cry, track 3 made me dance in my car :-) Michael Franti Follow Your Heart and Work Hard & Be Nice This is my go-to happy music! Having a great day? Put these albums on to celebrate! Having a terrible day? Put - [Books (and More) We Loved in 2022 Part 5!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/books-and-more-we-loved-in-2022-part-5/) - From Susan! My top picks usually run to fantasy, as usual. I particularly enjoyed two series this year. Rebecca Ross’s A River Enchanted combined all the great fantasy elements for me-an island, childhood enemies who are attracted to one another after a long separation, magic, music and strange disappearances AND… an unfinished plot line which - [10 Things You Didn't Know About Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-topsham-public-library/) - You've been visiting Topsham Public Library for years. Your next door neighbor is a staff member. You bring your grandchildren to the storytimes. You knew us when we were still in the house. You think you know us pretty well, but below are 10 things that you might not know. Did you know we once sponsored - [New to Topsham Public Library--cloudLibrary NewsStand!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/new-to-topsham-public-library-cloudlibrary-newsstand/) - Topsham Public Library is pleased to announce a new service for our patrons, cloudLibrary NewsStand, an e-magazine app to read magazines on your phone, tablet, or browser! NewsStand has currently over 6500 titles, including a variety of magazines from different countries and languages other than English. It also features at present over 150 “premium” titles - [Staff Picks 2020, Part 3](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2020-part-3/) - To wrap things up, Susan, Dale, and Monique will share their top picks of the past year. Though reading habits may have changed, it is still the power of story that we found enjoyment in. Here's to reading in the new year! Enjoy! Susan's Top Picks: Dale's Top Picks: Monique's Top Picks: Like Jen, I - [Staff Picks 2020](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2020/) - It may have been a miserable year, but at least it moved right along! Just like that we are closing the chapter on 2020 and opening a new one for 2021. Every year, it is interesting to look back on our year of reading, watching, and listening and thinking about what was going on at - [Giving Tuesday!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/giving-tuesday/) - What a weird year. Every one of us has experienced change on levels we never imagined, and we have had to learn to adapt. Adapting is easier for some than others and can be scary for all. Topsham Public Library has also adapted and changed the way we do things, but we have not changed - [Making Nature a Tradition](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/making-nature-a-tradition/) - Many traditions are carried out throughout the year - holiday traditions, unique family traditions, community traditions. Many of those traditions have been altered this past year and will continue to be. While this might bring about feelings of sadness or loneliness, it also can be an opportunity to create some new traditions. A growing body - [Winter Hours](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/winter-hours/) - Beginning November 1, 2020, Topsham Public Library will change our operating hours to our new winter schedule. The new schedule is as follows: Monday 9am-5pm Tuesday 9am-6pm Wednesday 9am-6pm Thursday 9am-6pm Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday closed As always, if it is storming, check our website (topshamlibrary.org) or call us (725-1727) to make sure we - [What's so great about late October?](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/whats-so-great-about-late-october/) - Here are seven splendid things to enjoy outside during the latter half of October: O - Obviously, the foliage! Peak hits our area around the first and second week of the month so it has just passed but there is still plenty of color to notice. Take a moment to pause and appreciate the foliage found - [Of Purple and Gold](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/of-purple-and-gold/) - From Monique Strolling through our gardens and noticing the colors that remain, I was reminded of these words from one of my favorite books... "The human eye is superbly equipped to detect these colors (purple & yellow) and send a signal pulsing to the brain. This doesn’t explain why I perceive them as beautiful, but - [Another look at the Libraries Build Business grant](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/another-look-at-the-libraries-build-business-grant/) - Recently, we announced that Topsham Public Library was awarded a Libraries Build Business grant, an initiative of the American Library Association funded by Google to build capacity and expand our programming to small businesses and entrepreneurs. We are excited about this new endeavor, but you might be asking yourself what will this look - ["I'm Bored" Nature Fun Ideas](https://topshamlibrary.org/something-to-do/im-borednature-fun-ideas/) - There's still plenty of summer left and with many activities and summer camps cancelled, families face the challenge of coming up with more ways to engage their children through the warmer months. Perhaps you are feeling the same way? Whether you have children or not, you may find something on this list that will spark - [Returning to pre-covid operating hours](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/returning-to-pre-covid-operating-hours/) - Topsham Public Library's operating hours are changing and we are excited to say that we are returning to our pre-shutdown hours. So, beginning today, Monday, August 3 our hours are: Mondays 9am-5pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 9am-8pm Fridays 9am-5pm Saturdays 9am-4pm Sundays closed. We are seeing increased traffic every day, and it is so good - [The sharing table returns!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/the-sharing-table-returns/) - The Topsham Sharing Table is returning to Topsham Public Library this Wednesday, July 22, 2020! - [Interlibrary loan is back!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/interlibrary-loan-is-back/) - Beginning this week patrons of Topsham Public Library are able to request items from other libraries using Minerva! Though we, and many other libraries, have begun using interlibrary loan again, not all libraries are up and running with the interlibrary loan service, so please be patient. If you requested items from other libraries before the - [Don't forget about the gardens!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/dont-forget-about-the-gardens/) - In all the excitement about Topsham Public Library being open to the public, I hope you don't forget to visit the gardens. Even though the building has been closed, our garden volunteers have been working hard and the gardens are a beautiful sign of their labors. Stroll through and enjoy the sights and sounds of - [We're Opening!!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/were-opening/) - It's true! Topsham Public Library is ready to open the building to the public! Here are the details! Beginning Monday, July 6, we will open Mondays through Fridays 9am-5pm and Saturdays 9am-1pm and closed on Sundays. (Please note that we will be closed on July 3 and 4.) A mask is required to enter and - [It's good to be back!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/its-good-to-be-back/) - Thank you! It's so good to be back, and your response has been so positive! We appreciate your patience as we figure out the process and procedures to our parking lot pick up. We enjoy seeing everyone's happy faces when we bring items out to your car! We love our community! Because everything went so - [Curbside Pick Up Begins June 2](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/curbside-pickup-begins-june-2/) - We are still hammering out the details, but we are so excited to announce that curbside pick up from Topsham Public Library will be available beginning Tuesday, June 2! There will be a limit on the number of items you may have which will be much reduced from the normal limits. Inter Library Loan (ILL) - [An Author Amongst Us](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/an-author-amongst-us/) - If you haven't heard the news, we are so excited to announce that Emma, our Adult Services Librarian, has released a book of horror short stories! We just can’t help but brag on her behalf and spread the news. Dark Blood Comes From the Feet by Emma J. Gibbon, was released on May 22 has already - [Why Should You Read the Annual Report?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/why-should-you-read-the-annual-report/) - If you haven't heard the news yet, Topsham Public Library's 2016 Annual Report has been released! You may read it by clicking here, or by looking in the center section of November's issue of The Cryer, or by picking up a copy at Topsham Public Library. The Development Committee has been working on the annual report - [Behind Closed Doors Part 5: Development](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/behind-closed-doors-part-5-development/) - On a grand scale, Sharon's job as Topsham Public Library's Development Coordinator is "to create community where everyone feels welcome and connected to the world around them." On a basic level, she raises funds through opportunities like the Business Roundtable, Whitten Society memberships and grant applications, so that staff can continue to create and build a - [Roses are Red, Violets are Blue](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/roses-are-red-violets-are-blue/) - Roses are red, violets are blue, at Topsham Public Library, we love you! It's February, and do you know what that means? That's right! It's Love Your Library on Saturday, February 11, 2017 starting and 10:00am and continuing through 11:30am. Come see what your library card can do for you and why Topsham Public Library is your - [Topsham Public Library is Looking for Board Members](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/topsham-public-library-is-looking-for-board-members/) - The following is a note from Susan Preece, Director of Topsham Public Library, concerning the search for new board members. Topsham Public Library is looking for new board members. Over the past week, as we have begun to advertise for trustee positions, I have been answering many questions about what the library board does and - [Come Celebrate With Us](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/come-celebrate-with-us/) - The following was written by Sharon Ross, Development Coordinator for Topsham Public Library. The Board of Trustees of the Topsham Public Library will be celebrating the opening of its newly configured West Garden Patio on May 20 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. with an opening tea that will also recognize a major donation by Brunswick - [Topsham Public Library to Open Mondays!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/topsham-public-library-to-open-mondays/) - There is excitement in the air! Topsham Public Library is changing our operating hours, and we are so pleased to announce that beginning July 1, we will be open on Mondays! Because of the generosity of Mrs. Janice Solomon, Topsham Public Library is setting aside a portion of the Solomon bequest and using it to - [Congratulations to Our Director!](https://topshamlibrary.org/in-the-news/congratulations-to-our-director/) - If you haven't heard the news, our very own Susan Preece, Director of Topsham Public Library, is the recipient of the 2019 Outstanding Librarian of the Year Award given by the Maine Library Association! We are so proud of her and her endeavors to ensure that Topsham Public Library is a community center for all. - [Drop Box Opens For Limited Hours and Message from Friends of Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/drop-box-opens-for-limited-hours-and-message-from-friends-of-topsham-public-library/) - Here's an update from Susan Preece, Director of Topsham Public Library: Thank you for your patience during this pandemic! We are anxious to get back to business but, as you know, public health and safety must come first. We are hopeful that we can begin to provide some of our services in June, however the - [Just a Bit of Fun](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/just-a-bit-of-fun/) - Sometimes, I just don't know what to write, so in order to get the creative juices flowing, I tried something different. I don't know where this idea came from, but I thought I'd give it a go. I chose a music playlist, it was comprised of 308 songs, and I typed out the first line - [Local Farms Adapt](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/local-farms-adapt/) - We are so thankful to live in an area with great local farmers who provide all sorts of fresh produce, meat, dairy, and baked goods. With Covid-19, you might be wondering how to take advantage of the locally grown food. Farmers have adapted and are striving to make their produce available and safe for you - [National Library Week](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/national-library-week/) - It is National Library Week this week and did any of us ever guess that our library, and so many others, would be shut down? The building may be closed, but this is a great time to check out Topsham Public Library online to see how we are still meeting your needs during Covid-19. We - [Comfort Food Ideas](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/comfort-food-ideas/) - We all have favorite comfort foods or snack ideas that we rely on. They might be family recipes that date back a generation or two or they might be new concoctions of our own making. I asked the staff of Topsham Public Library to share some of their go-to favorite comfort foods. Below you will - [Be You](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/be-you/) - What a crazy few weeks it's been. My activity level has dropped considerably, and yet, at the end of last week, I was so exhausted, and I realize it's emotional exhaustion of so much change amongst so much uncertainty. My youngest son is now home as his university closed. My daughter, a paramedic, is dealing - [Adapting](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/adapting/) - Surreal. It's a word I keep going back to. Merriam-Webster defines surreal as "marked by the intense irrational reality of a dream, also: unbelievable, fantastic." Life has changed suddenly and drastically for us all. And, to me, it has the "reality of a dream" aspect to it. I know many of you are facing challenges that none of - [These Interesting Times](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/these-interesting-times/) - At noon on Monday, March 16, Topsham Public Library closed. We are aiming to re-open in two weeks, but please check our website for further updates. This is a new experience for us, and we want to make sure you know that we will not be charging fines and you do not need to concern - [How libraries can nurture a love of nature](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/how-libraries-can-nurture-a-love-of-nature/) - Are you a nature lover? Would you like to deepen your nature connection? Here are twenty ways the library can support your love of nature or help develop one in 2020: Books Let's start with the obvious. What may not be so obvious, though, are the different genres that can feed your nature-loving soul. Nature-based - [This Month Various Nature Topics Presented](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/this-month-various-nature-topics-presented/) - We've almost made it through another Maine winter! Thoughts of spring and the awakening of trees, plants, gardens, and wildlife bring hope. Topsham Public Library is offering a variety of ways to learn more about the nature and wildlife around us. On Monday, March 9 at 4pm, the Nature Speaks Book Discussion Group is hosting - [Music in March is Coming!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/music-in-march-is-coming/) - [Cooking and Science](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/cooking-and-science/) - I enjoy it when patrons let me in on what they're reading. Sometimes the book comes with a glowing recommendation, and other times it's obvious the reader is not too keen on what they've read. As often as staff are asked for suggestions, many times the best suggestions come from the patrons. This "cook book" - [February's School Vacation at Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/februarys-school-vacation-at-topsham-public-library/) - Are you looking for some fun and free activities to do over the school vacation next week? Topsham Public Library has you covered! First of all, just a reminder that on Monday, February 17 the library will be closed for President's Day, but we will reopen and resume regular operating hours on Tuesday, February 18 - [Sweet Confections](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/sweet-confections/) - Peanut brittle. I confess it's not my favorite, but there are members of my household who would be tempted to sell their soul for that delight. I decided I would try to make this craved for sweet, so I scoured the Minerva catalog for candy making cookbooks. Some I will return to like Hand-Crafted Candy - [Staff Picks 2019, Part 3](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2019-part-3/) - Here it is. The final installment of Staff Picks 2019. May another year of great reading be ahead! Linda leads the way: Long Time Gone by J.A. Jance: This is the 17th book in this series featuring Seattle detective J.P. Beaumont. I had read the earlier ones years ago and somehow lost track - [Staff Picks 2019, Part 2](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2019-part-2/) - Is the anticipation keeping you up at night? Are you anxious for more reading suggestions? Are you loving new reads or wondering, "what were they thinking?" Well, wait no further! Below is the second installment of Topsham Public Library's Staff Picks of 2019. I will kick things off this week: 2019 was a bit different - [Staff Picks 2019, Part 1](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-2019-part-1/) - And here we are again! It's 2020!! Twenty years ago, we lived through the build up to 2000 and wondered if the doomsayers were correct that the future would be one of planes falling out of the sky and only those survivalists with underground bunkers and stashes of freeze-dried food would last the year. Well, - [Holiday Hours](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/holiday-hours/) - It's so hard to believe that the next time I write a blog post it will be 2020! Everyone at Topsham Public Library wishes you Happy Holidays! Our holiday hours are (items in bold are a change in normal hours): Tuesday, December 24 9am-3pm Wednesday, December 25 closed Thursday, December 26 9am-8pm Friday, December 27 - [What is there to notice in nature?](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/what-is-there-to-notice-in-nature/) - It can be hard to get out during this time of year, this transition time between fall and winter. It's cold and things look brown and bare. What is there to do and see outside right now anyway? Well... plenty! Read through the list of nature to explore around Topsham Public Library (and anywhere else) - [Do You Like to Throw Parties?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/do-you-like-to-throw-a-party/) - Not only are the holidays are upon us, but then there's New Year's Eve, the Superbowl, and random "I'm tired of winter so let's have people over to keep the doldrums at bay" parties. Well, Delish by Joanna Saltz and the Editors of Delish is a must have for any "raising a ruckus" party menu. - [The Macmillan Boycott](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/the-macmillan-boycott/) - Those of you who enjoy eBooks and audio books that are available through cloudLibrary with your library card, will be interested to know about the boycott of Macmillan Publishers eBooks (and its imprints) by Maine InfoNet, the Maine Library Association, and the American Library Association (ALA). The boycott is the result of the embargo Macmillan - [It's That Time of Year](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/its-that-time-of-year/) - There has been a notable uptick of letters in my mailbox. As the end of the year approaches the requests for donations are numerous. There are many worthy organizations that depend on the generosity of the public, and Topsham Public Library is one of them. You may have already noticed a letter addressed to you - [Following Nature's Lead](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/following-natures-lead/) - "If there is any wisdom running through my life now, in my walking on this earth, it came from listening in the Great Silence to the stones, trees, space, the wild animals, to the pulse of all life as my heartbeat." - Vijali Hamilton The temperature is cooling, daylight hours are shortening, leaves have fallen, - [Help Maine Authors Write a Mystery](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/help-maine-authors-make-a-mystery/) - Is it the estranged son taking out the overbearing, interfering mother? Is it the returned hometown hero taking out the town drunk who knows too many secrets? Is it the retired old spinster trying to keep the skeletons in the closet? And you never know about that innocent looking, always helpful, maybe too helpful, town - [Book Groups for All Ages](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/book-groups-for-all-ages/) - Do you enjoy reading, but you wish you could discuss what you've read with other readers? Topsham Public Library has a number of book groups for all ages. Check the list below and if something interests you, join us. Read a book, participate in lively discussion, meet some new friends, and become involved in your - [I Love My Crock Pot](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/i-love-my-crock-pot/) - I use my crock pot year round, but there's something about fall that draws me to use it much more often. Most of the time, I use my crock pot to make soups, stews, chowders, etc, but I tried The Whole30 Slow Cooker by Melissa Hartwig (it has some recipes for the Instant Pot, too!) - [Sense of Place and Nature's Role](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/sense-of-place-and-natures-role/) - “An individual is not too distinct from his place. He is his place.” — Gabriel Marcel Sense of place. Have you heard this phrase? I first heard it several years ago and although it was new terminology to me, the concept was familiar. To put it simply, it refers to the meaning - [The Blueberry Cookbook](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/the-blueberry-cookbook/) - I love to pick strawberries. Every summer you'll find me at a local farm picking those big, plump, juicy berries. I have a little raspberry patch in my yard, and I love picking berries for muffins or jam. But when it comes to blueberries, I confess, I just buy them. The local farmer's markets sell - [What's In Your Wallet?](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/whats-in-your-wallet/) - Everyone, find your library card! Topsham Public Library is offering its patrons more value with the rolling out of a state-wide pilot program which allows our patrons in good standing to check out items from participating libraries. The Maine Reciprocal Borrowing Program allows anyone with a valid library card from one of 68 participating libraries - [Joy of the Pen Writing Competition is Open for Submissions](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/joy-of-the-pen-writing-competition-is-open-for-submissions/) - Are you a writer? Do you have some stories or poems that you've been working on? Is there a story hanging out in your mind but you haven't had reason to get it out on paper? Now is the time! We are accepting submissions for our annual writing competition, The Joy of the Pen, from - [What Happens to Damaged Items?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/what-happens-to-damaged-items/) - When an item is returned to Topsham Public Library it is not just checked in and placed on the cart to be shelved. Each item is inspected to see if anything like a bookmark, or a credit card, or a check, or an airplane ticket - you get the drift - is left in it. - [Awaken Your Senses in the Garden](https://topshamlibrary.org/leaves-and-reads/awaken-your-senses-in-the-garden/) - "I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order." - John Burroughs Have you visited our gardens recently? Some blooms are starting to fade away but there is still plenty of color and interest. Sarah has done a wonderful job designing so that there's always something in - [It's Grilling Season!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/its-grilling-season/) - You know her as the Barefoot Contessa. She has a series of cookbooks, and I had heard of her, but I had never tried one of her recipes and the way Dave talks about her, I knew it should be sooner rather than later. Garten, not only has written numerous cookbooks, but also hosts cooking - [She's Back!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/shes-back/) - You may remember, in the fall of 2018, we introduced you to Lindsey who, at the time, was a University of Maine Augusta student completing her internship at Topsham Public Library as she was earning her Bachelor of Science Degree in Information and Library Science. But now she's back as a staff member! When Lindsey - [Neat Nature at Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/neat-nature-at-topsham-public-library/) - The following is the first of a new blog series from Monique, one of our new staff members. She will be writing once a month about all things nature that you can find at Topsham Public Library and its environs. It's packed full of fun facts and resources where you can learn more. Enjoy! Hi! - [The Life of a Book](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/the-life-of-a-book/) - We are a library. Books are our business. (Certainly not our only business, but quite a bit of what we do centers around books.) Have you wondered about the life of a book at Topsham Public Library? How do we decide what titles to buy? What happens after we order the books? What happens if - [Orcs and Dragons and Elves Need to Eat, Too!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/orcs-and-dragons-and-elves-need-to-eat-too/) - This month's cookbook review is by Lynne Morgan. Lynne is the Circulation Manager at Topsham Public Library and enjoys all things food. ORCS AND DRAGONS AND ELVES: OH MY!! So who would have thought when my son was battling orcs, elves, dragons and mages online that it would lead to cooking!! Well, that’s exactly why - [Staff Picks Top 15 Part 4: Julie, Susan, Lynne, and Mariah](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-top-15-part-4-julie-susan-lynne-and-mariah/) - As part of Topsham Public Library's 15th anniversary on Foreside Road, the staff has chosen their Top 15 picks of all time. The staff was allowed to choose the Top 15 in all or the Top 15 in up to three categories. Have fun with the lists! Julie's Top 15 Picks in no particular order: - [Staff Picks Top 15 Part 3: Jen, Dale, and Linda](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-top-15-part-3-jen-dale-and-linda/) - As part of Topsham Public Library's 15th anniversary on Foreside Road, the staff has chosen their Top 15 picks of all time. The staff was allowed to choose the Top 15 over all or the Top 15 in up to three categories. Have fun with the lists! Jen's Top 15 Picks: When I began thinking - [Staff Picks Top 15 Part 2: Helen, Liz, and Emma](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-top-15-part-2/) - As part of Topsham Public Library's 15th anniversary on Foreside Road, the staff has chosen their Top 15 picks of all time. The staff was allowed to choose the Top 15 over all or the Top 15 in up to three categories. Have fun with the lists! Helen's Top 15 Books in no particular - [Staff Picks Top 15 Part 1: Dave, Cyndi, and Monique](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-top-15-part-1/) - As part of Topsham Public Library's 15th anniversary on Foreside Road, the staff has chosen their Top 15 picks of all time. The staff was allowed to choose the Top 15 over all or the Top 15 in up to three categories. Have fun with the lists! Dave's Top 15 Books in no particular order: - [Hot Sauce, Anyone?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/hot-sauce-anyone/) - I was intrigued when I first saw The Homemade Pantry by Alana Chernila. It is a cookbook full of recipes for foods "you can stop buying and start making". Do you like Twinkies? You can make them at home! Pop Tarts, Peanut Butter Cups, and Oreos are just some of the treats Chernila has adapted - [Free Non-Residential Card for Bowdoin and Bowdoinham MSAD 75 Students](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/free-non-residential-card-for-bowdoin-and-bowdoinham-msad-75-students/) - Do you know an elementary school through high school aged student who lives in Bowdoin or Bowdoinham and attends a MSAD 75 school? If so, let them know that a free Topsham Public Library card is available for them now and is valid through September 1, 2019. This program is made available due to a - [Help Us Celebrate 15 Years!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/help-us-celebrate-15-years/) - Hopefully, by now you are aware that Topsham Public Library is celebrating our 15th Anniversary at our Foreside Road location on Saturday, June 8 with events scheduled all day long. (For a schedule of events click here.) If you are unable to join us that day and you are looking for another way to celebrate - [It's Our Anniversary!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/its-our-birthday/) - Can you believe it?! Next month Topsham Public Library is celebrating 15 years at our Foreside Road location! We are so thankful for the support from our community. It would not be possible without you! Of course we are throwing a party! Saturday, June 8 is filled with activities and the schedule of events is - [Gelato Isn't Supposed to Be Chewy](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/gelato-isnt-supposed-to-be-chewy/) - There is a Gelato Fiasco cookbook!! When I saw it, I knew I had to try it! But the folks at Gelato Fiasco can rest assured, I won't be posing a threat to their success! Along the way, my gelato turned chewy, and believe me chewy gelato is yucky, but it was worth trying and - [Did Someone Say Summer Reading?!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/did-someone-say-summer-reading/) - You wouldn't know it by the weather we've been experiencing, but summer is on its way and with summer comes Topsham Public Library's summer reading programs. The staff has been busy finalizing details and confirming programs and on June 1 we are launching A Universe of Stories. If you are a regular patron, you know - [Ruth Reichl Is Not My Niece's Friend](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/ruth-reichl-is-not-my-nieces-friend/) - My niece, Kelsee, loves to cook. She's adventurous in the kitchen and up for anything. Though we live in different states now, there was a time when we lived together, so we have a small group of common friends and aquaintances. Anyway, long story short, she was telling me about a recipe for chocolate cake - [Maine State Music Theater and Treasure Island](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/maine-state-music-theater-and-treasure-island/) - Do you know that the classic tale Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson is also a musical? Maine State Music Theater's summer lineup includes Treasure Island: A Musical Adventure which is being performed June 26 through July 13! MSMT has partnered with six local libraries, Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, Topsham Public Library, Wiscasset Public - [Big Truck Day and Other School Vacation Activities](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/big-truck-day-and-other-school-vacation-activities/) - With a string of activities lined up over the April school vacation, Topsham Public Library is the place for you and your family. Remember, all activities are free and open to the public. To start the week off, Maine 3 Railers O-Gauge Model Railroad Club will set up a running model railroad display in our - [New, But Familiar Face](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/new-but-familiar-face/) - There is another new face behind the circulation desk, but she is certainly familiar to many of you. Monique, though new to our staff, served as President of Friends of the Topsham Public Library for a few years. Monique was impressed by the fierce loyalty that members have toward Topsham Public Library and the desire - [I Love a Good Cookbook](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/i-love-a-good-cookbook/) - One of the pleasant surprises I have experienced since working in a library, is the plethora of cookbooks. I don't know why I hadn't thought of this resource before, but I hadn't. Another little tidbit I'll let you in on: the staff at Topsham Public Library talks a lot about food. From good places to eat - [The Art of Breakfast](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/the-art-of-breakfast/) - Breakfast is big at my house. We love breakfast for breakfast, lunch, and supper. Now that my children are older, we forego the turkey dinner and cook a big breakfast on Thanksgiving morning, so that everyone can get where they need to be. At the circulation desk, I noticed The Art of Breakfast: How to - [Back to Basics: Mac-n-Cheese](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/back-to-basics-mac-n-cheese/) - I have a confession to make. I love boxed macaroni and cheese. Within 10 minutes I can enjoy a strangely orange with unnaturally small noodles goop. I'm not even picky about the brand - Kraft, Hannaford, Annie's. I'll eat them all. I'll eat them all and enjoy it! I will however, from time to time, - [Oops, Eleanor is too popular!](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/oops-eleanor-is-too-popular/) - Rare Readers, we will have to switch around our last two books of the year due to availability issues. The April and May books are now as follows: April: Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng May: Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman - [Down East Readers' Choice Awards 2019 Voting Open](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/down-east-readers-choice-awards-2019-voting-open/) - If you know Dave, you know what I mean when I say that he keeps me on the ball. From the newest book releases to the best British TV series, he's always keeping me up to date. Now, he wants to make sure we all know that the voting is open in the Down East - [Topsham Garden Club Celebrates 85 Years](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/topsham-garden-club-celebrates-85-years/) - Topsham Garden Club was founded in 1934 and it is still going strong. On the second Wednesday of the month from 12-2:30pm the club meets at Topsham Public Library where members gather to hear guest speakers, socialize, eat, and talk all things green. The public is always welcome to attend. Bring a brown bag lunch - [Meet Liz!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/meet-liz/) - You may have noticed a new face at Topsham Public Library. Liz Snowden has been with us for a few months now and works at the circulation desk. Though she has only been with us such a little while, she comes with much experience as she also works at Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, Maine. - [CLYNK for Friends of Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/clynk-for-friends-of-topsham-public-library/) - The Friends of Topsham Public Library are so important to us. Through their fundraising efforts, much of the programming that you enjoy at Topsham Public Library is possible. Now, you can support the Friends of Topsham Public Library through CLYNK. CLYNK is a bottle redemption program that is offered through Hannaford Supermarkets. It's so easy! First, fill - [Music in March 2019](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/music-in-march-2019/) - It's a favorite time of year! Free concerts for the community sponsored by Friends of the Topsham Public Library on the first four Saturdays in March at 1pm! Does it get any better? This year's lineup is as follows: Miscellania, Bowdoin College’s oldest women’s a cappella group, will start things off on Saturday, March 2. - [About the AARP Tax Help](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/about-the-aarp-tax-help/) - It begins in January. The question is asked by young, old, in person and on the phone, "Are you taking appointments for tax help?" If you are not aware, every year beginning in February, AARP offers free tax help at a variety of places in the area. Topsham Public Library is one of these places. - [Topsham Public Library is Good for Your Health. Seriously!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/topsham-public-library-is-good-for-your-health-seriously/) - Have you made New Year's resolutions to live a healthier lifestyle? Maybe resolutions to go on a diet, go to the gym more regularly, and/or stop smoking. Well, you can add "visit your local library" as a resolution because it is becoming more apparent that a library in a community is a health benefit for - [How to Be a Woman by Caitlin Moran](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/how-to-be-a-woman-by-caitlin-moran/) - This week the Rare Reads book group discussed How to Be a Woman by Caitlin Moran. Here is a piece she wrote about libraries (in response to library cuts in the UK): https://www.huffingtonpost.com/caitlin-moran/libraries-cathedrals-of-o_b_2103362.html - [Staff Picks of 2018, Part 3](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-of-2018-part-3/) - And to wrap up Topsham Public Library's 2018 Staff Picks will be Linda, Susan, Mariah, Julie, and me. What are your favorites that you read last year? Have you already sunk your teeth into a good one this year? Linda's 2018 Top Picks: Kingdom of the Blind by Louise Penny I can’t help it! - [Staff Picks of 2018, Part 2](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-of-2018-part-2/) - The 2018 Staff Picks continue. This week Dave, Cyndi, Liz and Lynne share their favorites from 2018. Dave's 2018 Top Picks: The Flight Attendant by Chris Bohjalian is a thriller about a flight attendant that wakes up in the wrong hotel room with a dead man beside her in bed - and she has - [Staff Picks of 2018, Part 1](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/staff-picks-of-2018-part-1/) - Another new year is here, but we're not quite done with 2018, yet. Today, and continuing for the next few weeks, I'll be sharing Topsham Public Library's Staff Picks of 2018. To qualify for a staff pick the staff member must have read/listened to/watched the staff pick in 2018, but it does not have to - [Year End Thank You!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/year-end-thank-you/) - The following is a letter from Dave Mosley, Topsham Public Library Development Coordinator. With the end of 2018 rapidly approaching, it seems a good time to look back over the past year. In reflection, there have been some challenges, but I find many more events that are positive and I am energized and excited. A - [2018 Book Lists](https://topshamlibrary.org/bestseller-lists/2018-book-lists/) - I have primed the staff at Topsham Public Library to get their Staff Picks of 2018 list done. Dave has already submitted his to me with the caveat that he may add one or two titles before the midnight on December 31 deadline. But below I have added a few lesser known sources (wink, wink) - [Our Annual Appeal](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/our-annual-appeal/) - The following is a letter from David Mosley, Development Coordinator for Topsham Public Library. Can you believe it? It's that time of year again. Dreary, post-fall/pre-winter weather with seemingly “shorter” days with less daylight and a colder climate. However, I always find myself a little excited about the Thanksgiving holiday, when good food and time - [Great American Read Reveal](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/great-american-read-reveal/) - Did you watch it?!? On Tuesday, October 23 PBS aired the final episode of The Great American Read and revealed America's favorite book. And the winner is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee! Lee's book took and kept the lead right from the beginning. There were a few close calls: Rebecca by Daphne du - [Let's Talk About It!](https://topshamlibrary.org/programs/lets-talk-about-it/) - The Topsham Public Library has been selected by the Maine Humanities Council to offer “Let’s Talk About It”, a free reading and discussion group with copies of books available through the library. This program is provided by the Maine Humanities Council’s Maine Center for the Book in cooperation with the Maine State Library. The series, - [Latest Rare Reads Discussion](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/latest-rare-reads-discussion/) - Last night the Rare Reads book discussion talked about The State We're In: Maine Stories by Ann Beattie. Have you read it? What did you think? - [Dave Mosley Takes on New Role as Development Coordinator](https://topshamlibrary.org/in-the-news/dave-mosley-takes-on-new-role-as-development-coordinator/) - You may have noticed lately that Dave has not been behind the circulation desk as much as usual. As well as Volunteer Coordinator, and Suggestion Source Extraordinaire, he is now adding Topsham Public Library Development Coordinator to his list of duties. As you know, if you have ever engaged with Dave, he strives to do - [Banned Books Week](https://topshamlibrary.org/banned-books/banned-books-week-2/) - It's Banned Books Week! Every year the American Library Association promotes a campaign to raise awareness of the freedom we have to read what we want to read. In the past, Topsham Public Library has highlighted banned books that we like to read or that have been challenged, but this year, I thought it would - [TV Shows Set in Maine](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/tv-shows-set-in-maine/) - Castle Rock. Emma gets practically giddy when it is mentioned, and then when you get her together with Dale and Lynne (outside of work time, of course) the chatter is non-stop. The three of them are either talking all things Castle Rock or one or the other is shushing the others because they are an episode or two - [High School Reading Assignments](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/high-school-reading-assignments/) - At Topsham Public Library, when we start getting requests for Tess of the D'Ubervilles by Thomas Hardy, we know school is soon beginning. Students who enroll in AP English classes have summer reading assignments, and, as in true student form, they tend to wait until the last minute to get it done. (Who can blame - [And the Music Just Keeps on Playing](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/and-the-music-just-keeps-on-playing/) - Summer is not complete without rockin' along with a band under the summer sky! Join Off Their Rockers for an outdoor rock concert on Saturday, August 4 at 1pm at Topsham Public Library. Off Their Rockers play an eclectic mix of music from Buddy Holly to Carole King to Old Crow Medicine Show to the - [Things are Rockin' at Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/things-are-rockin-at-topsham-public-library/) - If you haven't heard: Libraries Rock! Not only is that true, it is also the theme of the summer reading program, and things are rockin' at Topsham Public Library. Join musician, Marc Black, on Wednesday, August 1 at 6pm for a special multimedia experience about the history of the baby-boomer generation. Black performs a wide - [1500+ Hours Donated by Topsham Public Library's Volunteers](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/1500-hours-donated-by-topsham-public-librarys-volunteers/) - Recently, Dave, Topsham Public Library Volunteer Coordinator, and his crew of shelving volunteers reached a milestone. This fiscal year, our wonderful volunteers performed over 1500 hours of volunteer time! That is up 300 hours from last year. Our shelving volunteers complete a number of duties including shelf reading, book shelving, packing and unpacking ILL deliveries, - [Bowdoin International Music Festival Musicians visit Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/bowdoin-international-music-festival-musicians-visit-topsham-public-library/) - Topsham Public Library will host students of the Bowdoin International Music Festival in a free concert on Saturday, July 7th at 2pm. The Bowdoin Festival’s Community Concert Series presents gifted classical musicians from around the world performing solo and chamber music in non-traditional venues. The performers are conservatory and graduate students who attend the festival’s - [Ed Webster, Mountaineer to Visit Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/ed-webster-mountaineer-to-visit-topsham-public-library/) - On Thursday, June 28 at 6:00PM at Topsham Public Library, Ed Webster, author of the White Mountain rock climbing guidebooks, will present his newest lecture about the recreational development of Mt. Washington, known as Agiocochook, by the native Abenaki. Webster will discuss his unique collection of early artwork, stereophotographs, and pictures taken by 1920s and - [Rare Readers - What were your favorites this year?](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/rare-readers-what-were-your-favorites-this-year/) - As always, the Rare Reads book group read a variety of books this year. What were your favorites? Which had the best discussions? Let us know in the comments below! Here's the list to remind you: Rare Reads Book List 2017-2018 September: Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders October: Pink Chimneys by Ardeana - [The Gardens](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/the-gardens/) - Few words today. The gardens are coming to life. and they are beautiful. Pictures don't do them justice. Next time you are by Topsham Public Library, take a few minutes and enjoy. - [Tips On Requesting A Movie](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/tips-on-requesting-a-movie/) - With the recent release of Murder on the Orient Express, The Handmaid's Tale, and Dunkirk we have noticed a pattern of confusion as patrons request movies and TV shows from home. So, I'm going to give you some tips to keep in mind when requesting those items. The most important step to take when searching - [Summer Reading Begins June 1](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/summer-reading-begins-june-1/) - It's that time of year again. I think it comes more quickly each year! If you are a regular, you are familiar with the summer reading program at Topsham Public Library. If you are new, you don't want to miss out! Every summer, we host a summer reading program, and this summer it begins Friday, - [Did You Watch The Great American Read?](https://topshamlibrary.org/bestseller-lists/did-you-watch-the-great-american-read/) - On Tuesday, May 22, PBS aired the premier of The Great American Read. Did you watch it? In case you aren't sure what I'm talking about, PBS is hosting The Great American Read in which the public votes on their favorite book from a 100 book list and in Fall, 2018 PBS will air 7 - [Wanna Go Fishing?](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/wanna-go-fishing/) - My father loved to fish. He would get up early in the morning, and by the time I woke up fish would be frying on the stove. I remember two times Dad took me fishing. My earliest memory was picnicking on the bank of the Little Black River. After a little lunch, my dad taught - [Odd Items at Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/odd-items-at-topsham-public-library/) - Naturally, Maine is the place to be in the summer time, and already Topsham Public Library is noticing an influx of people "from away." One such visitor was pleasantly surprised to discover we have telescopes that can be checked out by our patrons. This led to a further discussion about the binoculars and fishing poles - [The Great American Read Book List Released](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/the-great-american-read-book-list-released/) - PBS is hosting a national contest, The Great American Read, to engage people in choosing America’s favorite book. On April 20 a list of 100 books was released, and on May 22 at 8pm PBS will air a launch special “kicking off a summer of reading and voting.” Then, we have all summer to read what - [New Development Coordinator at Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/new-development-coordinator-at-topsham-public-library/) - I would like to introduce you to Barbara Hawkes the new Development Coordinator at Topsham Public Library. Barbara and her family have recently moved back to Maine and when she heard of the opportunity here, she applied. You will see from her experience that she has worked in a variety of areas that are real - [The Great American Read Presented by PBS](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/the-great-american-read-presented-by-pbs/) - Have you heard about The Great American Read? PBS is hosting a national contest to engage people in choosing America's favorite book. On April 20 a list of 100 books will be released, and on May 22 at 8pm PBS will air a launch special "kicking off a summer of reading and voting." We have - [Author Bruce Coffin Visits Topsham Public Library During National Library Week](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/author-bruce-coffin-visits-topsham-public-library-during-national-library-week/) - National Library Week is April 8-14 and in celebration, Topsham Public Library welcomes author Bruce Coffin on Thursday, April 12 at 6pm. Coffin is the bestselling author of the Detective Byron mystery series and a former detective sergeant with more than twenty-seven years in law enforcement. At the time of his retirement, from the Portland, - [Get Ready! April is Poetry Month](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/get-ready-april-is-poetry-month/) - April is fast approaching, and if you are not aware, April is Poetry Month. Below you will find my feeble attempt at rhyme, and after your eye-rolling and guffaw suppression is over, come to Topsham Public Library and pick up a collection of real poetry. As I sit here at my desk I consider - [Mayhem at Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/mayhem-at-topsham-public-library/) - The Tuesday Mayhem Society cordially invites you to join them on Saturday, March 31, 2018 at 1pm at Topsham Public Library for an afternoon of murder, madness, and strange fiction. Come hear some of Maine’s brightest stars of dark literature as they share stories and poetry in their second annual literary celebration. Authors will include - [Keeping Track of What I've Read](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/keeping-track-of-what-ive-read/) - At the circulation desk, we are often asked if we keep a record of what people have read. Sometimes people forget if they've read a certain book or not, or they've read a great book and cannot remember the title, and people just want us to help them remember. Topsham Public Library does not keep - [Topsham Public Library Closings](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/topsham-public-library-closings/) - The snow is coming! At least that's what they say. So, for everyone's safety the Topsham Public Library is closing at 5pm today, March 7, and will not be open tomorrow, Thursday, March 8. You can find out information from us on our website, facebook (www.facebook.com/TopshamPublicLibrary) and twitter (@TopshamLibrary). Other useful accounts to look out - [Music In March](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/music-in-march-2/) - Music in March concert series at Topsham Public Library is fast approaching! Our ever-popular Music in March concert series returns to Topsham Public Library this spring. The first four Saturdays in March at 1pm there will be a concert that is free and open to all ages. On March 3, we welcome Martin Gibson who - [May the Force Be With You](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/may-the-force-be-with-you/) - It's back! This Friday, February 23 from 1pm-2:30pm at Topsham Public Library is the 3rd annual Friday of the Force. This event is open to all ages and is one of the favorites here. Dress up as your favorite Star Wars character and play Star Wars themed games, enjoy Star Wars themed snacks and join - [Tax Information](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/tax-information/) - Notice 1437 (February 2018): n1437--2018-02-00 - [For Romantics and Non-Romantics Alike, Topsham Public Library is Here For You!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/for-romantics-and-non-romantics-alike-topsham-public-library-is-here-for-you/) - I find, in my small circle of friends, that people either love or hate Valentine's Day. No matter what side you're on, Topsham Public Library is here for you! You want a love story? Try one of these Romance Writers of America Award Winners: Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare or No Good Duke Goes - [Are You a Movie Buff?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/are-you-a-movie-buff/) - Are you a movie buff? Does Oscar season excite you? Below is a list of all the previous Academy Award winners so you can watch them and get caught up before the big event on March 4! Remember, if Topsham Public Library doesn't have it, you can request in through Interlibrary Loan (ILL). 2017 - - [I goofed.](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/i-goofed/) - I totally dropped the ball and forgot to include Linda's Top Picks of 2017! So without further adieu and with my sincerest apologies, here are Linda's top picks: Glass Houses by Louise Penny: Once again Ms. Penny is number 1! Her use of historical knowledge and classical literature build a frame for - [Topsham Public Library Closed Week of January 29th](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/topsham-public-library-closed-week-of-january-29th/) - Have you heard yet?! Topsham Public Library is closed next week! We will re-open for normal business hours on Tuesday, February 6, 2018. What's going on? We are getting a paint job! Freshening up and doing some cosmetic repairs. The Crooker Gallery has already been painted and the Young Adult room has its first coat - [Top Picks of 2017, Part 3](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-picks-of-2017-part-3/) - And last, but not least! Lynne's Top Picks: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo is the first in a Young Adult series. Six outcasts and a heist. What more do you need? Replica by Lauren Oliver is told from two different points of view. Haven is a peaceful looking island - [Top Picks of 2017, Part 2](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-picks-of-2017-part-2/) - And the hits just keep on coming! Julie's Top Picks of 2017 are: Determined to rid herself of the family curse that has doomed her family, Esther encounters a new phobia that is the worst one of them all: the fear of loving. Read all about it in A Semi-Definitive List of - [Top Picks of 2017](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-picks-of-2017/) - Here we go! As promised, over the next few weeks, I will be sharing Topsham Public Library Staff's Top Picks of 2017. I will get things rolling! Here are my Top Picks of 2017: Last Bus to Wisdom by Ivan Doig is at the top of my Top Picks of 2017 list. Ivan - [Drum Roll, Please!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/drum-roll-please/) - Are you ready for the year's top prizes to be awarded in books, movies, and music? Beginning next week, I will be revealing the Top Picks of 2017 chosen by the staff of Topsham Public Library! Tune in, and compare it to your favorites from this past year. To be a Top Pick of 2017, - [Operating Hours Will Remain Same Through Holidays](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/operating-hours-will-remain-same-through-holidays/) - Usually this time of year, Topsham Public Library informs our patrons and visitors of any changes in our operating hours due to the holidays. This year we don't have to do that because the way the calendar falls, the holidays are during our regularly scheduled closed times. So, our operating hours are not changing. Everything stays - [You Know Winter Has Arrived When](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/you-know-winter-has-arrived-when/) - Topsham Public Library is blessed with beautiful grounds. Not only do we have beautiful grounds, but we have great volunteers who have transformed our grounds into producing gardens. We receive many positive comments about the gardens and their beauty and their peacefulness. The gardens are at the rear of our building, and in the summer - [Santa Claus is Coming to Town!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/santa-claus-is-coming-to-town/) - If you have a little one who gets excited by the thought of Santa Claus, you don't want to miss these opportunities at Topsham Public Library! On Wednesday, December 13 at 10am we are hosting a special storytime with Miss Mariah. Children will meet Santa and have a tasty holiday treat! Don't forget to bring - [Should You Mess With a Classic?](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/should-you-mess-with-a-classic/) - Recently I borrowed the audiobook Huck Out West by Robert Coover, and I chose it because it is a sequel to The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain. I was intrigued to discover how Coover envisioned the continuation of Huckleberry Finn's life. All the pertinent characters are there, Tom Sawyer, Becky Thatcher, and Jim, plus - [Happy Thanksgiving!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/happy-thanksgiving-2/) - Topsham Public Library wishes you all a Happy Thanksgiving! We truly are a part of a great community, and we are so thankful for all of your support. In observance of Thanksgiving, we will be closed Thursday, November 23, 2017, but we will re-open Friday, November 24, 2017 at 9am, and that same day - [You Are The Best!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/you-are-the-best/) - Photo courtesy of Topsham resident Doug Griffin. Well, we survived. Honestly, I didn't see it coming. I know the meteorologists were warning about the high winds, but I thought I was ready and unconsciously I thought, "Meh, how bad can it be?" Well, I was surprised, shocked almost, by the damage and power outage. I - [Author to Visit Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/author-to-visit-topsham-public-library/) - We have a variety of book discussion groups here at Topsham Public Library, and one of them is Mens' Book Club. This month they are reading Remarkable Americans: the Washburn Family by Kerck Kelsey, and they invite you to join them when the author visits on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at 6pm and learn about one - [Movie Night with Topsham Public Library and Smitty's Cinema](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/movie-night-with-topsham-public-library-and-smittys-cinema/) - Topsham Public Library, in conjunction with Smitty's Cinema in Topsham, is sponsoring a movie night and a movie matinee. (Smitty's is located at 65 Topsham Fair Mall Road - the opposite end of Hannaford.) That's right! Free movie tickets! Pick up tickets here and enjoy the movie at Smitty's. Details below! (If you have questions, - [High Demand Items](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/high-demand-items/) - Every month, Josh Tiffany, Director of Gray Public Library, sends out a system wide email that alerts libraries of the items that are in high demand. Below you will find the list for October, 2017 high demand items. This will give you a glimpse of the value interlibrary loan is to libraries in Maine. And - [Pink Chimneys by Ardeana Hamlin](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/pink-chimneys-by-ardeana-hamlin/) - This month, the Rare Reads book group discussed a local favorite, Pink Chimneys. Have you read it? What did you think? - [Thank You! From Friends of Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/thank-you-from-friends-of-topsham-public-library/) - Below is a thank you note from The Friends of Topsham Public Library concerning the book sale: "The Friends of the Topsham Public Library once again want to extend a sincere thank you to the amazing citizens of Topsham and the entire community. We had a very successful book sale. Your support is neverending and much - [Plan Your Topsham](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/plan-your-topsham/) - Have you heard? The Town of Topsham is updating the Comprehensive Plan and they want residents' input. Between Thursday, October 19 and Monday, October 23 there are a series of activities in which residents may participate and give their feedback about what they want Topsham to be. Below is a schedule of events. For more - [Banned Books Week 2017](https://topshamlibrary.org/banned-books/banned-books-week-2017/) - This week is Banned Books Week. Libraries are dedicated to your right to read. Everything is not for everyone, but there is something for each one of us. The most challenged books for 2016 are: Top Ten for 2016 Out of 323 challenges recorded by the Office for Intellectual Freedom This One Summer written by Mariko - [Banned Books Week Recap](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/banned-books-week-recap/) - In honor of Banned Books Week (which is next week) we take a look back at past Banned Book Week blog posts. https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/banned-books-week/ https://topshamlibrary.org/banned-books/its-banned-book-week/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/the-banned-book-i-bought-at-the-book-sale-by-emma/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/the-most-frequently-challenged-book-of-the-decade-by-lynne/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/my-favorite-banned-book-by-dale/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/a-banned-book-i-read-recently-by-helen/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/banned-books-in-the-news-by-bernardo/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/my-favorite-book-is-a-banned-book/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/the-value-of-banned-and-challenged-books-by-cyndi/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/one-of-my-favorite-banned-books-by-susan/ https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/most-memorable-banned-book-by-mariah/ - [Calling All Writers](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/calling-all-writers/) - It's that time of year! Topsham Public Library is now accepting Joy of the Pen submissions. For those of you who are not familiar with the contest, the Joy of the Pen is a writing competition that is free to enter for year-round Maine residents, both amateur and professional. Prizes are awarded in the following - [Donation Drop-Off Deadline Drawing Nigh](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/donation-drop-off-deadline-drawing-nigh/) - The annual Friends of the Topsham Public Library Book Sale is almost here (September 29-October 1), and that means you are running out of time to drop-off your gently used books, dvds, and cds. Saturday, September 15 is the last day we are taking donations. (We have a deadline so the wonderful volunteers have time - [Fall Sports Season](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/fall-sports-season/) - M T A ! M T A ! M T A! If you are anywhere in the vicinity of Mt. Ararat High School this fall, you might hear enthusiastic fans chanting and yelling in support of their athletes. The nights are cold, but the enthusiasm is infectious, and the feats are daring. There are many - [You Need A New Bookmark!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/you-need-a-new-bookmark/) - At Topsham Public Library, we are always trying to find ways to keep you connected with books you might like to read. Bookmarks with lists of book suggestions are our newest way. Each bookmark has a theme or read alike suggestions. Currently we have one holder, but we are looking to add another holder with - [Staycation Pictures! Thank you, Keith Spiro!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/staycation-pictures-thank-you-keith-spiro/) - Here is just a sampling in pictures of Staycation 2017! The sun was out, the ice cream was delicious, and the smiles contagious! Thank you to all who came out and enjoyed their day with us! And thank you, Keith Spiro for the great pictures. To view the entire gallery, click here. Mr. - [Say Hello to a New Staff Member!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/say-hello-to-a-new-staff-member/) - If you have frequented Topsham Public Library in the past few weeks, you noticed a new face behind the desk. Cat is our newest member of staff, so please stop by and say hi! Cat grew up in Wolfboro, NH, but she has Maine connections as her grandparents lived in Topsham. As much as we - [Guest Blogger Keith Spiro and Tai Chi at Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/patron-review/guest-blogger-keith-spiro-and-tai-chi-at-topsham-public-library/) - As part of the summer reading program at Topsham Public Library, Tai Chi was offered on Saturday morning July 1 and July 8. Library Champion (and Official Photographer), Keith Spiro was one of the participants and he has written this week's blog about his experience. Thank you, Keith! With soft meditative music in the background, - [Resources for Seniors](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/resources-for-seniors/) - Are you a senior living in Topsham? Here are some online resources that could be helpful to you. AARP www.aarp.org Aging in Place www.aginginplace.org Benefits Check Up www.benefitscheckup.org Eldercare Locator www.eldercare.gov Family Caregiver Alliance www.caregiver.org Meals on Wheels www.mowaa.org Medicare www.medicare.gov National Council on the Aging www.ncoa.org Senior Living Map www.seniorlivingmap.org SeniorNet www.seniornet.org Thanks to - [Children's Programs During Staycation2017!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/childrens-programs-during-staycation2017/) - Hopefully, by now you have heard about Staycation 2017! at Topsham Public Library and you know about the great programming offered to adults. But there is a ton of stuff going on that day for children, too! Beginning at 9:30a.m., on Saturday, July 29, a line-up of special guests will read to children. The fun - [Paul Doiron is Coming to Topsham Public Library!!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/paul-doiron-is-coming-to-topsham-public-library/) - I know you know who he is. And, I know you do not want to miss Paul Doiron at Topsham Public Library on Saturday, July 29 at 2pm! How do I know you know who he is? Because right now, as I write this, there are 242 holds on his newest release Knife Creek in the Minerva - [Maine Poet Gary Rainford Part of Staycation Lineup](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/maine-poet-gary-rainford-part-of-staycation-lineup/) - Gary Rainford grew up on Long Island, NY, but now he calls Swan Island, Maine home where he resides with his wife and daughter year-round. Naturally, his poetry is influenced by the beauty and fierceness of the nature that surrounds him. Salty Liquor is his first published collection of poems, and his work has also appeared - [Storyteller Begins Festivities at Staycation2017!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/storyteller-begins-festivities-at-staycation2017/) - She is no stranger to Topsham Public Library, and we are excited to welcome her back! Carol Birch begins the festivities during Staycation2017! on Saturday, July 29 at 10am. Oral storytelling is vital to our Maine heritage, and Carol has been developing, working and excelling in the art for over 40 years. Based in Connecticut, Carol - [Library Spotting in Michigan](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/library-spotting-in/) - Weddings. Summertime is the season for weddings. That's how I happened to be in Jackson, Michigan over the weekend. My nephew tied the knot and my sister and I went to join in in the festivities. Of course, one of us had to run around picking up last minute items and toiletries that one of - [Summer Reading Program Begins This Saturday!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/summer-reading-program-begins-this-saturday/) - The excitement is building, people have been asking about it, and finally, on Saturday the fun begins! All kinds of stuff is lined up for the summer. There is something for everyone! If you have participated before, you know that you want to be here on Saturday, June 17 to pick up your summer reading - [Library Spotting](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/pictures-of-libraries/) - A few weeks ago, while we trudged through our gray, sunless days, Lynne, our lovely co-worker, was enjoying the sun down in the Florida Keys. While she was there, she happened upon two libraries, and she took pictures of them. Pictured left is Monroe County May Hill Russell Library. That gave me an idea. When - [Summer Reading Lists 2017](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/summer-reading-lists-2017/) - Are you beginning to wonder if the sun still exists or if summer will ever arrive? I am. But don't despair! Whether the days are dreary or the sun finally appears, there are book challenges and book suggestions to get us through our darkest days. The following link is for the Read Harder Challenge. The - [Maine Authors on Display!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/maine-authors-on-display/) - This month's book display, located to the right as you enter Topsham Public Library, is highlighting Maine authors. Maine is the best place to be in the summer, so when you hit the beach, or head to camp, or relax in your own yard, stop by Topsham Public Library first and pick up some books by - [DVD Update From Dave](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/dvd-update-from-dave/) - The following is an update from Dave about Topsham Public Library's DVD collection. Not all the “new” items that come into Topsham Public Library’s collection are noted on our monthly listing. Most times when we bring something that is published or created in past years, it is not included on the list. For instance, recently - [Do You Re-Read Books?](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/do-you-re-read-books/) - The day was gray and the rain wouldn't stop. I decided to read a book. I have piles, literally, piles of new books just waiting to be read, but I ignored them. I had the overwhelming desire to read Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. I don't normally re-read books, but there are one - [An Author Comes Calling](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/an-author-comes-calling-2/) - The Mystery Readers’ Roundtable has been faithfully meeting once a month, except during the summer, since September 2009 here at Topsham Public Library. We’ve read books from all over Maine, from all over the U.S. and from all over the world. We have explored amateur sleuths, police procedurals, and even true crime. We have also - [Interview with Monica Wood](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/interview-with-monica-wood/) - This month, we discussed One-in-a-Million Boy by Monica Wood. The book proved to be a record holder of its own in our group by being the first book that EVERYONE really liked. Here's an interview with Monica Wood from one of our group members, Stephanie: http://stephdoyon.blogspot.com/2016/04/the-one-in-million-monica-wood.html - [My Random Thoughts About Audio Books](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/my-random-thoughts-about-audio-books/) - Last week, my sister Laurie, my cousin Lisa, and I went on a road trip to Michigan to visit my sister Becky. It was second nature for me to check out a variety of audio books from Topsham Public Library in preparation of the 14ish hours of drive time. (I won't mention which of us - [March Madness](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/march-madness/) - Are you caught up in the NCAA March Madness College Basketball Tournament? My family loves March Madness and we each have our own bracket. It is a family tradition and the winner gets to decide where we will go out to eat. I'm already out this year. I'm usually the first one out of contention each year - [Save the Date!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/save-the-date/) - If you are anything like me, you are already planning your summer. We need to make the most of our short summers here in Maine, and enjoy it as much as we can. I am happy to announce a new program that you do not want to miss! In conjunction with our Summer Reading Program, - [The Nightingale](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/the-nightingale/) - Yesterday, we discussed The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. Here's a video of an interview with the author talking about her inspiration for the book: - [I Wish My Library Would...](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/i-wish-my-library-would/) - Have you ever thought I wish my library would...Well, now there is a convenient way to let us know what you think. There is a new suggestion box at Topsham Public Library, and we want your clever ideas. We are also looking for your thoughts about our magazine collection. - [An Evening of Horror](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/an-evening-of-horror/) - Join us at Topsham Public Library for a fright-filled evening of fiction as we plumb the depths of madness and the macabre. On Thursday, March 30, 2017 at 6pm some of Maine's darkest minds will gather and discuss the craft of horror writing. Horror Writers of Maine is a relatively new organization that promises to grow - [Do You Enjoy Tea?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/do-you-enjoy-tea/) - The garden volunteers are at it again! There are bags of library-grown tea available for free to our patrons! Check out the basket next to our suggestions box! The following information is provided by Eli Arlen, a garden volunteer. Most of the plants are perennial, so you can grow and harvest your own tea year - [Music in March!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/music-in-march/) - Our ever-popular Music in March concert series returns to Topsham Public Library! Every Saturday in March at 1pm there will be a concert that is free and open to all ages. On March 4, we welcome Porch Light, an acoustic duo from Midcoast Maine (Our own Mariah Sewall is one-half of the duo!!) offering daring - [A Spool of Blue Thread](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/a-spool-of-blue-thread/) - Yesterday the group discussed A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler. Have you read it? What did you think? How did you feel when the significance of the spool of blue thread is revealed? Did the "thread" of blue running through the book feel satisfying to you? - [My Random Thoughts on Winter](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/my-random-thoughts-on-winter/) - I love Maine. I am from Maine. I can't imagine living anywhere that does not have four seasons but winter is my least favorite season. I know, I know. There is skiing, and sliding, and snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, and smelting, and making snow angels, and hockey, and ice skating. There is also cold and wet - [School Vacation 2017 To Do List](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/school-vacation-2017-to-do-list/) - School vacation is fast approaching, and if you need some help planning your week, look no further than Topsham Public Library. Get the party started at our teen event, Chocolate Wars on Saturday, February 18 at 1pm-2pm. Bring your sweet tooth and try to best your buddies with a little friendly combat! Events include: Chocolate Pictionary, - [Top 5 of 2016 Part 3](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-5-of-2016-part-3/) - The following completes 2016's top picks. Cyndi's Top 5 with some honorable mentions: If you know Cyndi, you know she is intrigued by the workings of the body and how it's intertwined. Do No Harm: Stories of Life, Death and Brain Surgery by Henry Marsh, a leading neurosurgeon, delves into the working of the brain and - [Top 5 of 2016 Part 2](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-5-of-2016-part-2/) - And the hits just keep on comin'! As always Linda is on top of the mysteries, and coming soon to her web page, Mysteries Abound, will be a link to an archive of Linda's Top 5 picks from previous years. Once again Ms. Penny hits one out of the park with A Great Reckoning. This is the - [Top 5 of 2016 Part 1](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-5-of-2016-part-1/) - I'm not sure how it happened, but we are now into 2017!! Happy New Year! And as we do every year, I am happy to present the Top 5 picks of Topsham Public Library staff members. Drum roll, please. Dave feels sure of his Top 5 as he submitted his list in November. In no - [Behind Closed Doors Part 6: The Administrators](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/behind-closed-doors-part-6-the-administrators/) - Topsham Public Library is blessed to have two of the best library administrators in the State of Maine. Director Susan Preece and Assistant Director/Teen Services Librarian Cyndi Burne are great women to work for and are passionate about what they do. In July, 2005 Susan was named Director of Topsham Public Library. Susan does it - [This month we discussed...](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/this-month-we-discussed/) - Me Before You by Jojo Moyes. Have you read it? What did you think? Are you a fan of her other books? - [Binge Watching Suggestions](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/binge-watching-suggestions/) - We interrupt the regularly scheduled programming to bring you great binge watching suggestions. Dave, staff member at Topsham Public Library, wrote a post suggesting binge watching ideas in case you find some extra time on your hands this holiday season. Enjoy! binge watch·ing noun The practice of watching multiple episodes of a television program in rapid succession, - [Behind Closed Doors Part 4: The Librarians](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/behind-closed-doors-part-4-the-librarians/) - Emma and Mariah are Topsham Public Library's fine librarians. Let me give you a peek into their world. Mariah is our children's librarian which means she does pretty much whatever is going on in the children's department. She reads reviews and orders the books for the entire children's department including the parenting items. She also - [Behind Closed Doors Part 3: Desk Duty Devils](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/behind-closed-doors-part-3-desk-duty-devils/) - More than likely, when you visit Topsham Public Library, Dave, Dale or I will be tending the circulation desk, but we each have our own responsibilities beyond what you see us do out front. We have a good time together when working hard at the circulation desk: Dale keeps us informed about the current sports - [Behind Closed Doors Part 2 : Library Aides Plus](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/behind-closed-doors-part-2-library-aides-plus/) - Though you may see Julie and Linda around Topsham Public Library, much of their time is spent in the offices working on a variety of responsibilities. Sometimes people just forget to bring back library items they have checked out. It happens. Julie, Library Aide Plus, sends notices to remind patrons to return these items, and - [Happy Thanksgiving!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/happy-thanksgiving/) - As I write this Saturday morning, Topsham Public Library is bursting with activity. The meeting rooms are full and people of all ages are coming and going. Many are getting stocked up for Thanksgiving weekend. Whether you are enjoying a traditional Thanksgiving or trying something new, whether you are staying home or travelling far and wide, - [Behind Closed Doors Part 1: The Catalogers](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/what-goes-on-behind-closed-doors-part-1-the-catalogers/) - There are many little children that visit Topsham Public Library every week. Some are just babies, and some are moving on their own: creeping, crawling, jumping, walking, and running. Some are fast, and some are slow, but once they start moving they make their way to the doorway that leads to the staff offices. They are very - [Wonder by R.J. Palacio](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/wonder-by-r-j-palacio/) - This month the Rare Reads book group discussed Wonder by R.J. Palacio. It was very well received and proved to be fertile discussion material. We were also joined by members of Facing Maine, a nonprofit that is a voice for those with facial disfigurement. Have you read Wonder? Share your thoughts here. - [We Are Closed on Friday](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/we-are-closed-on-friday/) - This is just a friendly reminder that we are closed Friday, November 11, 2016 in honor of Veterans Day. I hope you enjoy your day, and for those who have served, Thank You! Veterans Day was established as a national holiday in November, 1938. It was originally called Armistice Day in reference to the ending - [Spooky Reads](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/spooky-reads/) - Halloween is almost here and in honor of all things scary, freaky and unnatural, here are some horrific suggestions from the staff at Topsham Public Library. Linda does not read horror, but her idea of scary includes 1984 by George Orwell, The Stepford Wives by Ira Levin and "anything that gets me locked up in - [Can You Find the Moose?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/can-you-find-the-moose/) - Over Columbus Day Weekend, I headed north for a few days. I love heading north. I like the quiet and the beauty and harshness of nature. I am totally unplugged up there - no phone and no internet. There is electricity but no running water in the camp. It's a very simple life. A life - [Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/our-souls-at-night-by-kent-haruf/) - This month our Rare Reads book group discussed Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf. Do you have any other thoughts about the book? Please comment! - [Public Service Announcement](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/public-service-announcement/) - Are you aware this is Fire Prevention Week? Well, it is! Topsham Fire and Rescue in conjunction with the American Red Cross of Maine is providing FREE smoke alarms installed on Saturday, October 22, 2016. Registration is required - read below for details and the link to the American Red Cross of Maine can be - [Thank You, Friends!!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/thank-you-friends/) - It is hard to believe Friends of the Topsham Public Library Annual Book Sale has come and gone! Hundreds of hours are put into the book sale by many volunteers and all to support Friends of the Topsham Public Library. Perhaps you are new to our community and aren't quite sure what Friends of Topsham Public - [Banned Books Week](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/banned-books-week/) - I have always thought of Topsham Public Library as a place to go and relax and enjoy programming and find books and talk with others about books and ideas and enjoy garden spaces and check out books on gardening and get good movies and bad movies too, but as I was thinking about Banned Books - [What's Happening This Weekend? Let Me Tell You!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/whats-happening-this-weekend-let-me-tell-you/) - It's fast approaching, folks! Do you know what this weekend is? It's the Friends of the Topsham Public Library Book Sale! If you are a member of Friends of the Topsham Public Library, there is a preview sale open to you on Friday, September 23 from 5pm-7pm. (If you are not a member and would - [The Book Sale is Coming! The Book Sale is Coming!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/the-book-sale-is-coming-the-book-sale-is-coming/) - Do you like music? Do you know every year, the Topsham Public Library hosts Music in March - a series of FREE concerts that range from a capella, to bluegrass, to barbershop quartet, to folk, and even flute ensembles? Do you like the discounted museum passes that the Topsham Public Library offers its patrons? Places - [Our Garden is Yielding Results!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/our-garden-is-yielding-results/) - Below is an update by Jim Demosthenes about the gardens at Topsham Public Library. The gardens are maintained by a talented group of volunteers. Our demonstration gardens behind the library are producing vegetables to help support food security needs in our community. Last October seed garlic was planted on the keyhole garden, a round mounded garden - [We start again next week!](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/we-start-again-next-week/) - Rare Readers! Our book discussion group is starting up again next week. On Thursday 29th at 2pm and 6pm, we will be discussing The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro. We always welcome new members so if you would like to discuss this book, you are very welcome to attend either of the sessions. Can't make - [The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/the-art-forger-by-b-a-shapiro/) - Last month, Rare Reads discussed The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro. If you couldn't make the meeting or did make it and forgot to say something--you can do so here! Just comment on this post! Here's some discussion questions to help: http://www.litlovers.com/reading-guides/13-fiction/8989-art-forger-shapiro?start=3 - [The House at the End of Hope Street](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/the-house-at-the-end-of-hope-street/) - Last month we read The House at the End of Hope Street by Menna Van Praag. Many of the Rare Readers thought that it would make a great TV show where a different woman came to live in the house each week (similar to Love Boat). What do you think? - [Joy of the Pen Opens Saturday](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/joyofthepen/) - It has been fun and encouraging to see the number of submissions grow each year and the new categories that have been added since its launch, and we are excited to see how Joy of the Pen will continue to flourish this year as well. Saturday, September 3, 2016, Topsham Public Library begins accepting submissions to this - [Meet the New President of the Board of Trustees](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/meet-the-new-president-of-the-board-of-trustees/) - Six times. He has tried six times, but this time Larry Fitch is determined to get through James Joyce's Ulysses. Intrigued by all the layers and interwoven threads that Joyce melds into the story, Larry is resolute in his pursuit to finish this story by one of Ireland's greatest writers. Books and libraries have always - [Get Your Bookmarks Done!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/get-your-bookmarks-done/) - Didn't school just let out for the summer? Didn't we celebrate the Fourth of July just last weekend? Where has the summer gone? It feels like summer is just beginning and it's hard to believe September is only two weeks away. As summer comes to an end, so does Topsham Public Library's summer reading program. Are you still - [The Fair is Coming!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/the-fair-is-coming/) - Topsham is home to a few gems, and the Topsham Fair is one of them. Entering its 162nd year, festivities begin Sunday and Monday with free harness-racing at 5pm, and then the full fair schedule unfolds on Tuesday with special events and entertainment all week long. Some of the highlights: Tuesday at 2pm, the Coastal - [Wednesdays Are Back Happy Hour!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/wednesdays-are-back-happy-hour/) - Remember our burst pipes and how we had to cancel the happy hour scheduled to celebrate that Topsham Public Library is open again on Wednesday evenings? Well, we have rescheduled! Please join us, Wednesday, August 3, 2016 (next Wednesday) at 5pm for mocktails in the gallery. These are special mocktails made with Tang - the - [We Missed You, Too!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/we-missed-you-too/) - As many of you know, we had an unexpected closure last week. Unfortunately, we had a water pipe burst, and as it seems to happen (at least in my experience with my house that is a fixer-upper and needs more fixing than it's been upped) the repairs weren't quite as straightforward as we would have - [O Canada](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/o-canada/) - While many of us were celebrating the Fourth of July this past weekend, there was a quiet few celebrating Canada Day (July 1). Amongst that quiet few was our own library director, Susan Preece, and I had the privilege of talking with her before she departed for the great white North (Any Bob and Doug McKenzie - [We're Back!!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/were-back/) - Topsham Public Library cordially invites you to join us Wednesday, July 6, 2016 as we re-institute our Wednesday evening hours! Please join us at 5pm for mocktails in the gallery. Then, Zany Majestic Bard will be performing at 6pm in celebration of 400 years of Shakespeare. This performance-lecture by David Greenham is provided by the Maine Humanities Council and the Maine State - [Congratulations, Helen!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/congratulations-helen/) - We would like to congratulate Helen Tomer for her 20 years of service at the Topsham Public Library! Helen started working at TPL in May, 1996. Thank you for your service, Helen! - [My Favorite Place](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/my-favorite-place/) - Saturday was the Summer Reading kick-off and many of you came by and picked up your packet. We are so excited to get this year's program underway! Everyone left Topsham Public Library with piles of books and movies and audiobooks to get them started on their bookmarks. I love leaving Topsham Public Library with books - [Summer Reading Starts Saturday!! Yipppeeeeeeee!!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/summer-reading-starts-saturday-yipppeeeeeeee/) - The air is a little bit sweeter. The skin tingles with excitement. You can sense it's quick approach. SUMMER READING IS ALMOST HERE!! The youngsters have already been asking about it, and the staff have already been preparing for it. (If you were at Topsham Public Library last Saturday morning you saw Dave and I - [Fishing Rally Time!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/fishing-rally-time/) - It's that time of year again! On June 4, 2016, at the ponds behind Topsham's Solid Waste Facility you can fish, without a license, from 8am-11am! (Please note the change: usually, it is Father's Day weekend, but it has been switched up this year.) This fun, outdoor opportunity is offered to you through a partnership - [It's a Mystery!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/its-a-mystery/) - If you have been to Topsham Public Library lately, you may have noticed Emma's display for the month is showcasing mysteries. Do you know May is Mystery Month? Do you enjoy a light mystery? Obviously, Agatha Christie is a good place to start. You can choose between Miss Marple, or Hercule Poirot, or even Tommy and - [The Orchid Rescuer](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/the-orchid-rescuer/) - The following is the next installment in the series in which I interview Topsham Public Library staff members. She didn't set out to fall in love with orchids, but it happened nonetheless. It started with a gift. With that first orchid, Cyndi has since collected over twenty orchids and the majority of them are ones that - [Series Premier: 60 Checkouts](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/series-premier-60-checkouts/) - The following is the next installment of a series in which I interview staff members of Topsham Public Library. Tick tick tick tick tick tick tick "The Fifth Annual Poetry Festival Saturday, April 30" Tick tick tick tick tick tick tick "Lawyers in Libraries, May 6" Tick tick tick tick tick tick tick "Sharon Ross, - [School Vacation Week Activities and Events - April Edition](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/school-vacation-week-activities-and-events-april-edition/) - It's school vacation week and Topsham Public Library has some great events lined up for you! On Thursday, April 21 from 1-3pm our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) event is taking place. Tables will be set up with various activities. This event is open to all ages. If you need more information call us at 725-1727 - [Author to Visit May 24!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/author-to-visit-may-24/) - Topsham Public Library's Mystery Reader's Roundtable (MRR) cordially invites you to their May 24 meeting at 3pm as they welcome special guest Charlene D'Avanzo, author of Cold Blood, Hot Sea. Author talks are always interesting and engaging, but what makes this particularly fun is that Ms. D'Avanzo contacted MRR and asked if she could visit them! Ms. D'Avanzo is from - [So you've been publicly shamed...](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/so-youve-been-publicly-shamed/) - Yesterday the Rare Readers discussed So You've Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson. Have you read it? What did you think? - [Last 3 Reads](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/last-3-reads/) - Our last 3 reads were The Borrower by Rebecca Makkai, Euphoria by Lily King and The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford. We'd LOVE to hear your thoughts on any of these titles! - [April is National Poetry Month](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/april-is-national-poetry-month/) - Not a favorite subject in schools, students might roll the eyes and argue strong, but Angelou and Frost are tools, that give to us life with a song. Writing a poem is not easy, nor are they always meant to be cheesy, unless its a limerick you look - [Writer's Block](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/writers-block/) - I have writer's block. Usually, after I finish one blog post, I begin brain storming for the next. It only takes a day or two, well, sometimes three, to come up with an idea. If I need to do any research, and I use the term 'research' lightly, I get that done. Then I sit - [Have your Forest and Eat it too!](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-gardens/have-your-forest-and-eat-it-too/) - Have you noticed two small clearings in the woodland edge out behind the library? Last fall & summer, did you see folks chopping up branches, laying out cardboard, and raking out piles of woodchips? If you did, you were witnessing the beginnings of a food forest. Food forests, also known as edible forest gardens are - [Jiffy ToPLe Live](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/jiffy-tople-live/) - The following is the continuation of the series in which I interview staff members of Topsham Public Library. The scene: standing room only at the Orion Performing Arts Center. Brass band playing, crowd clapping, whistling, and screaming. The excitement is electrifying as the audience is waiting the beginning of Jiffy ToPLe Live - the late night - [Check Up Time](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/check-up-time/) - It seems like ages ago, but back on December 8, 2015 I told you about a reading challenge I am participating in this year. Well, it's time to check up and see how I'm doing. In a nutshell, if my reading life was connected to my physical life, they would tag my toe, zip the body bag - [There is Music in the Air](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/there-is-music-in-the-air/) - One of our popular programs at Topsham Public Library is our Music in March Concert Series. Concerts take place on the first four Saturdays of March, and they all begin at 1pm. This year's line up is just as promising as prior programs! The fun started on Saturday, March 5 with Pejepscot Station. They are a - [Spring Cleaning](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/spring-cleaning/) - It wasn't until high school that I realized not every mother spring cleans their house like my mom did. My mother went through every room, every closet, every box and organized stuff and got rid of stuff. She gave her children the task of sorting through their own clothes and discarding anything that they did - [Gardening for Little People](https://topshamlibrary.org/library-gardens/gardening-for-little-people-2/) - In 2007, a group of boy scouts constructed an elegant spiral path from the back door of the the children’s reading room. A few years later, the library approached me to design a children’s garden around this spiral. What makes a garden a “children’s” garden? Without doubt, engaging all the senses is high on the - [He's One of Ours](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/hes-one-of-ours/) - The following is the continuation of a series in which I interview staff members of Topsham Public Library. Dale is one of the few staff members who is a Topsham native. He was born here, he went to school here, and he works and lives here. Topsham is his home, and we are glad to - [Unlocking the keyhole bed](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/unlocking-the-keyhole-bed/) - By Jim Demosthenes, TPL garden volunteer and Master Gardener First made popular in Africa due to dry growing conditions, keyhole gardens are growing in popularity in other hot, dry geographic areas. From a view above, the garden is shaped like a keyhole because of a notch that is cut out of the round shaped bed - [Vacation Week Activities and Events](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/vacation-week-activities-and-events/) - If you have children in school, you know February vacation is next week!! Topsham Public Library has scheduled events to help parents, kids, and community members stay busy. To start it all off, this Saturday, February 13, from 10am-11:30am Topsham Public Library is hosting a Love Your Library Open House. There will be gelato from Gelato Fiasco and coffee from - [It's Tax Time](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/its-tax-time/) - For better or for worse, tax time has arrived. Topsham Public Library has a variety of ways it can help you through tax season. We will be receiving the following forms and instructions that you can pick up here: Form 1040, Instruction 1040, Form 1040A, Instruction 1040A, Form 1040EZ, and Instruction 1040EZ. They have not - [Top 5 of 2015 - Part 2](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-5-of-2015-part-2/) - This is the continuation of the Top 5 Picks of 2015. Susan's Top 5: The Art of Hearing Hearbeats by Jan-Philip Sendker Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr The Queen - [Livin' Lovin' Maid](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/livin-lovin-maid/) - The following is the continuation of the series in which I interview staff members of Topsham Public Library. If you were to open the staff refrigerator you would see yogurt - lots of yogurt. One of Lynne's lunchtime staples is yogurt. Usually, it's the greek style yogurt, but on the day that I had the - [What's going on out there?](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/whats-going-on-out-there/) - For obvious reasons, most gardeners don’t write much about their activities during the growing season, at least not this far north, where the summers are short and the winters long. On this cold bright day in January I am thinking of last season’s gardens, as well as all that needs doing before spring. The light - [Top 5 of 2015 - Part 1](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-5-of-2015-part-1/) - It's that time of year when the staff of Topsham Public Library reveal their Top 5 Picks of 2015. The criteria that a top pick must meet is pretty basic: the staff member has to have read it, watched it, or listened to it in 2015 and loved it. Click on the picture to find - [2015 Year in Review](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/2015-year-in-review/) - Here is a quick look back at the many happenings in 2015 at your Topsham Public Library! Connie Bailey was the first recipient of the new Whitten Society Award. Never mind Star Wars. The Teen Room hosted Chocolate Wars! A smashing time was had at Steam - [To Resolve or Not To Resolve. That is the Question.](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/to-resolve-or-not-to-resolve-that-is-the-question/) - The year is coming to an end, and the new year is right on the doorstep. I don't usually make New Year Resolutions. I avoid them like the plague because it seems to me that I am setting myself up for failure when I make a resolution. But this year, I do want to make - [Mariah is Our Princess!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/mariah-is-our-princess/) - The following is the next installment in the series in which I interview staff members of the Topsham Public Library. My main task at the Topsham Public Library is to cover the circulation desk. I welcome patrons as they enter, I help people find items they are looking for, I check in items and I check - [I Challenge You](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/i-challenge-you/) - I must admit, I did not have much luck reading this year. I had a hard time finding titles I wanted to read, and then, once I began a book, I had a difficult time finishing the book. I did come upon a few pleasant surprises (you will hear about them in just a few weeks - [Keeping Track of Time](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/keeping-track-of-time/) - A few weeks ago, it became unavoidably clear that I need a calendar. After hitting the snooze button umpteen times, I got my body out of bed. As usual, I woke up the kids and started them on their morning routines. Then I took a moment and thought about the day that lay ahead and - [We Are Thankful](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/we-are-thankful/) - One of my favorite holidays is Thanksgiving. I haven't always appreciated the idea of thankfulness, but I have learned a few things along the way and have tried to develop an attitude of gratitude. The Topsham Public Library is thankful, too, and here is a list of some of the many things we are thankful for: The Community. - [Bulletin Board Update](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/bulletin-board-update/) - With the holiday season fast approaching, I thought this a great time to check out what is on the bulletin board and let you know what's going on in the community. So here are just a few of the events posted on the Topsham Public Library bulletin board: There are many events on the bulletin - [Elvis Is In The Building](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/elvis-is-in-the-building/) - The following is the fourth in a series in which I interview each staff member of the Topsham Public Library. On your next visit to the Topsham Public Library, if you are quiet, you might hear someone singing out back. That would be Julie - she is usually singing or humming a little ditty to herself. It might - [Happy Halloween!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/happy-halloween/) - Saturday is Halloween! Are your costumes ready? (Miss Mariah has been planning her costume for weeks now!) Are you going to be a ghost or goblin or a favorite character from a favorite book? Make sure you dress warm under those costumes so you don't get cold and carry a flashlight or glow sticks with you - [No Excuses!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/no-excuses/) - Joy of the Pen submissions have been received and we are eagerly awaiting the Joy of the Pen Reception on Saturday, November 14 1-3pm here at the Topsham Public Library. We have been encouraged by the growing number of submissions we receive each year for this program. The number of submissions is evidence of the vibrant writing - [There's a Body in the Library!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/theres-a-body-in-the-library/) - It was the end of a very long day at the end of a very long week. The gray and gloom inside my sparsely furnished office reflected the gray and gloom of the dreary day outside. My P.I. business was limping along. Things were grim. I sat at my desk contemplating my dismal future. Looking at My Girl Friday, I said, - [Chores Can Be Fun! (Really, they can!)](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/chores-can-be-fun-really-they-can/) - This past week, I rolled up my shirtsleeves and decluttered my house. From the tip-top of the roof to the dark corners of my basement. (Well, that one corner of the basement I left alone. I'm afraid there may be a body hidden under all that stuff.) I sorted through the books, then attacked the trunks - [It's Banned Book Week!!](https://topshamlibrary.org/banned-books/its-banned-book-week/) - We get pretty excited about Banned Book Week here at the Topsham Public Library (Emma is absolutely giddy!) Every year during the last week of September the American Library Association (ALA) sponsors Banned Book Week. ALA coordinates this event to educate the public that censorship is still a thing. The ALA also maintains a list of the - [It's the Beatles for Helen](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/its-the-beatles-for-helen/) - The following is the second in the series in which I conduct flash interviews with members of the Topsham Public Library staff. When I was a teenager, I often heard my mother call up the stairs, "Jen, come set the table." I think my mother hated telling me to do it as much as I - [I Do Not Have a Green Thumb](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/i-do-not-have-a-green-thumb/) - This past Friday, in the drizzling morning rain, I found myself cleaning out my garden. I am the first one to admit that I am terrible at keeping any plant alive, and my family will tell you the same thing. Every spring my children shake their heads and look at me with panic stricken eyes. They say things - [Joy of the Pen](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/joy-of-the-pen/) - There once was a writer from Nantucket who ran around town with a bucket, and when asked, "why do you carry that thing?" she just shook her head and said, "Do you not have any imagination?" It's just my first draft. I know, I have a lot of work to do. I only have until - [Pop Quiz!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/pop-quiz/) - The countdown is on - only five more days until school begins on August 31! The first day of school is always a bitter-sweet moment for us at the Topsham Public Library because that means summer reading will soon be over and lazy summer days are quickly coming to an end. So, to help get - [God Save the Queen!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/god-save-the-queen/) - Don't worry! Don't worry! We have not been invaded! Periodically throughout the next couple of months, I am going to highlight a member of the Topsham Public Library staff. We see so many different faces every day, I thought it would be nice to introduce ourselves and help you get to know us a little - [You're letting the flies eat the trees? On Purpose!?](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/youre-letting-the-flies-eat-the-trees-on-purpose/) - That's right! We're just letting them...but for a very good reason. Last week, one of our garden fairies (volunteers) pointed out that we have dogwood sawflies munching on the dogwoods in the birdsong garden. Her research indicated that, if tolerable, it’s not a bad idea to let the sawflies be because they are a great - [What to Read Next?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/what-to-read-next/) - Do you ever find yourself in need of a book suggestion? Of course you do, we all do. Sometimes it's hard knowing what book to try next. I find it especially hard after finishing a good book - nothing else quite matches up. At the library, we are often asked for book suggestions, and we - [National Book Lovers Day](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/national-book-lovers-day/) - I learned something new today, and I wish I had known it sooner. Do you know there is a National Book Lovers Day? I did not know that! This Sunday, August 9, 2015 is National Book Lovers Day and I plan to celebrate. First, I'm going to make sure I have piles and piles of - [Literary Day Trips](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/literary-day-trips/) - Summer is speeding on by and there is still so much to do! Are you aware of the literary adventures you can have in the State of Maine? Naturally, your first literary adventures are right here in Topsham. Maine Fiberarts at 13 Main Street has a current exhibit running through September 30, 2015 titled Handmade Artists’ Books: One - [Stay in the loop!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/stay-in-the-loop/) - Libraries aren’t just about reading anymore, and that is certainly true here at the Topsham Public Library. Naturally, we are still big on books, but we also offer children’s programming, teen programming, adult programming, a job information center, and computer access for the public just to name a few of our services. Do you know, - [Don't Miss the Fishing Derby!](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/dont-miss-the-fishing-derby/) - Even though I did not appreciate it so much at the time, some of my favorite childhood memories are of my dad and I fishing. One of my more vivid memories is of me standing on the bank of the Little Black. Dad was showing me how to flick my wrist just right, so that - [TPL Garden Projects 2015: Edible Forest Garden](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/tpl-garden-projects-2015/) - 'Tis the season at the TPL Gardens. We have a number of continuing and new projects available for volunteer input . If you see a project you'd like to work on, please email tplgardens@googlegroups.com or contact the indicated contact person. Edible Forest Garden: A new Master Gardener Project led by Sarah Wolpow and Dana Cary (729-4945). See this post for - [TPL Garden Projects 2015: Children's Garden Updates](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/tpl-garden-projects-2015-childrens-garden-updates/) - 'Tis the season at the TPL Gardens. We have a number of continuing and new projects available for volunteer input . If you see a project you'd like to work on, please email tplgardens@googlegroups.com or contact the indicated contact person. Children's Garden Project The Children's Gardens are ongoing opportunities to contribute volunteer energy through garden maintenance or creative expression: - [Get Your Hero On!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/get-your-hero-on/) - Holy Reading, Batman! There is a change in the air and it has nothing to do with the weather. Summer reading only began a week ago, and already there are children claiming their first prizes! SHAZAAM! If you haven’t picked up your summer reading packet yet, IT’S NOT TOO LATE. Things are just getting started. - [Art is Elementary](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/art-is-elementary/) - My refrigerator used to be the hottest art gallery in town. It was covered with finger paintings and drawings and collages galore. It was refreshing to see the artwork of uninhibited children. Now, it is covered with miscellaneous notices that go, mainly, unnoticed. I displayed, with great pride, the beautiful works of art that my - [Vertical Gardening](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/vertical-gardening/) - Inspired by gardens she saw from her trip to Tuscany, Master Gardener Ann Marie Bartoo has proposed a vertical garden project for the TPL Gardens. What's a vertical garden? Here are some examples of vertical gardens and vertical garden elements. Why do it? You can probably think of reasons on your own, but some that - [Julie's Top 4 of 2014!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/julies-top-4-of-2014/) - Wolf by Mo Hayder When a vagrant--the Walking Man--finds a dog wandering alone with a scrap of paper with the words "HELP US" attached to its collar, he's sure it's a desperate plea from someone in trouble and calls on Detective Inspector Jack Caffery to investigate. Meanwhile a wealthy local family is fighting for their - [Linda's Top 4 of 2014!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/lindas-top-4-of-2014/) - Just One Evil Act by Elizabeth George Inspector Lynley plays the back up role as Detective Sargent Barbara Havers gets caught up in the kidnapping of her young friend, Hadiyyah, and the complications of that act. This volume moves back and forth between England and Italy. The small Italian town is a great setting. I - [Emma's Top 4 of 2014!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/emmas-top-4-of-2014/) - Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: & Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty Most people want to avoid thinking about death, but Caitlin Doughty—a twenty-something with a degree in medieval history and a flair for the macabre—took a job at a crematory, turning morbid curiosity into her life’s work. Thrown into a profession of - [Mariah's Top 4 (plus one more) of 2014!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/mariahs-top-4-of-2014/) - Salt, Sugar, Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us by Michael Moss Gives you a completely different perspective on processed food! The science that goes into the foods we take for granted is amazing – not only have these foods been carefully crafted to create a “bliss” point, they’ve also been engineered to be highly - [Cyndi's Top 4 of 2014](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/cyndis-top-4-of-2014/) - These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner Luxury spaceliner Icarus suddenly plummets from hyperspace into the nearest planet. Lilac LaRoux and Tarver Merendsen survive -- alone. Lilac is the daughter of the richest man in the universe. Tarver comes from nothing, a cynical war hero. Both journey across the eerie deserted terrain for - [Susan's Top 4 of 2014](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/susans-top-4-of-2014/) - Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda On the eve of the monsoons, in a remote Indian village, Kavita gives birth to a baby girl. But in a culture that favors sons, the only way for Kavita to save her newborn daughter's life is to give her away. It is a decision that will haunt her - [Top 4 of 2014!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/top-4-of-2014/) - It's that time of year again when we look back at the previous year and choose our top reads/movies/music/games and TV! This year we asked staff to choose their top 4 of 2014 (books/movies/music/games and TV that they read/watched/played/listened to in 2014 rather than what was published in 2014). We'll be posting their picks all - [Dale's Top 4 of 2014](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/dales-top-4-of-2014/) - Mr Mercedes by Stephen King In the frigid pre-dawn hours, in a distressed Midwestern city, hundreds of desperate unemployed folks are lined up for a spot at a job fair. Without warning, a lone driver plows through the crowd in a stolen Mercedes, running over the innocent, backing up, and charging again. Eight people are - [Lynne's Top 4 of 2014!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/lynnes-top-4-of-2014/) - The Secret History by Donna Tartt Richard Papen arrived at Hampden College in New England and was quickly seduced by an elite group of five students, all Greek scholars, all worldly, self-assured, and, at first glance, all highly unapproachable. As Richard is drawn into their inner circle, he learns a terrifying secret that binds them - [Jen's Top 4 of 2014](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/jens-top-4-of-2014/) - Lone Survivor (Movie) Marcus Luttrell and his team set out on a mission to capture or kill notorious Taliban leader Ahmad Shah, in late June 2005. Marcus and his team are left to fight for their lives in one of the most valiant efforts of modern warfare. While Beauty Slept by Elizabeth Blackwell I - [Here's Bernardo's Top 4 of 2014!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/heres-bernardos-top-4-of-2014/) - Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam Grant For generations, we have focused on the individual drivers of success: passion, hard work, talent, and luck. But today, success is increasingly dependent on how we interact with others. It turns out that at work, most people operate as either takers, matchers, or - [Vertical Gardening and Other Gardening Ideas](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/vertical-gardening-and-other-gardening-ideas/) - I thought I'd post some links etc... to garden idea sites, one of which is our Pinterest site. You may have to join Pinterest to see it. Sorry. It can be sort of addictive. Click the picture above for a Buzzfeed post on vertical gardens. - [Edible Forest Gardens](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/edible-forest-gardens/) - Sarah brought to the last meeting the idea of edible forest gardens. The basic idea is that since our ecology is suitable for forests, why not create gardens that are adapted to it and that also produce food and ornamental crops. We have a few possible places where we could do this kind of installation: - [We got an Edible Food Forest Seed Grant!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/we-got-an-edible-food-forest-seed-grant/) - Thanks to master gardener, entrepreneur, garden fairy, and all-around swell person Sarah Wolpow, TPL Gardens will receive a Norm Steele Memorial Seed Grant. Here's Sarah's grant application: MGSeedGrantForestGarden. She whipped it together in a couple days. Most impressively, I think the background portion can be used for future garden related grant applications. - [What should I read next? What are you reading now?](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/what-should-i-read-next-what-are-you-reading-now/) - Stuck for your next read? Here's a sneak peak at what the staff of TPL are reading right now! Click on the titles to put a hold on in the catalog. Helen: The Dead Play On by Heather Graham Musicians are being murdered in New Orleans. But Arnie Watson apparently died by his own hand. - [Need something to do?](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/need-something-to-do/) - This spring weather is delightful after our long, cold winter. The snow is finally gone! Yards are being cleaned up, gardens are being readied, and flowers are being planted. The Topsham Public Library has some great opportunities for our patrons to take advantage of some local attractions and to get out and enjoy summer in - [Falling in Love with Reading](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/falling-in-love-with-reading/) - Hi! My name is Jen and you will find me working the circulation desk here at the Topsham Public Library. I grew up in Topsham, and I used to frequent the library when Mrs. Coro sat behind the desk at the old house on Pleasant Street. I loved walking through the maze of little rooms - [Garden Work Day May 28th, 2015 @ 1 to 4 PM](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/garden-work-day-may-28th-2015-1-to-4-pm/) - Sorry about the last minute announcement, but... Tomorrow afternoon, Thursday May 28, from 1 to 4 we'll be having a work session in the TPL gardens. We'll be concentrating on prepping the Edible Forest Garden. For that task, in addition to helping hands and strong backs, we could use 1. Compostable organic material that you - [What are you reading? What should I read next?](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/what-are-you-reading-what-should-i-read-next/) - Not sure what to read next? Here's what the TPL staff have been reading recently! Darker Than Any Shadow by Tina Whittle: The dog days of summer have arrived, and Tai Randolph is feeling the heat. Running her uncle’s gun shop is more demanding than she ever imagined. Her best friend Rico is competing for - [Patron Review: Exile (Garnethill Trilogy) by Denise Mina](https://topshamlibrary.org/patron-review/patron-review-exile-garnethill-trilogy-by-denise-mina/) - Definitely NOT a Cozy! By Beverly A. Martin I am hooked on Denise Mina's writing. This, the second novel in her Garnethill trilogy, is meant to drag you, shake you, expose you, cause you thrills and anguish. Along with her Scottish wit which pokes itself through the muck and mire to greatly relieve you. This - [Most memorable banned book by Mariah](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/most-memorable-banned-book-by-mariah/) - While it is not my favorite banned book, one of the top 100 banned books really jumped out at me as one of the most memorable: Bridge to Terabithia. There are many reasons why Bridge to Terabithia is challenged, but one of them is that death is central to the plot. I read Bridge to - [One of my favorite banned books by Susan](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/one-of-my-favorite-banned-books-by-susan/) - And Tango Makes Three is one of my favorite banned books. It is based on a true story of 2 male penguins at the Central Park Zoo in NYC, who raise an egg together. It provides a great example for kids about families which come in all variations. Based on an actual event, it allows - [The value of banned and challenged books by Cyndi](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/the-value-of-banned-and-challenged-books-by-cyndi/) - When reading the top ten most challenged books of 2012, I was surprised to see Dav Pilkey’s Captain Underpants series in the top slot. My next thought was “Why I am surprised, the series is called Captain Underpants, of course it is going to offend?!” It is obvious to me that Dav Pilkey remembers not - [My Favorite Book is a Banned Book by Julie](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/my-favorite-book-is-a-banned-book/) - To Kill a Mockingbird is my favorite book and it has been banned many times in many places. Atticus Finch has the kind of integrity and character that I strive to imitate. Had I not read this book when I was younger, I would not try to be a better human being than I - [Banned Books in the News by Bernardo](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/banned-books-in-the-news-by-bernardo/) - I was surprised to "hear" that Invisible Man was banned because it had "...no literary value." The article in the Christian Science monitor attributes that view to only one member of the Randolph County school board in North Carolina, who actually says that he himself did not find literary value in that book. It brings - [A Banned Book I Read Recently by Helen](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/a-banned-book-i-read-recently-by-helen/) - A recently re-read To Kill at Mockingbird as I really like the film adaptation and it had been years since I read the book. This book is often challenged with reasons cited as "offensive language" and "racism". However, I think it is a true reflection of life at the time and its themes and events - [My Favorite Banned Book by Dale](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/my-favorite-banned-book-by-dale/) - My favorite banned book is Cujo by Stephen King. Not only do I like dogs, but I also love a good horror book. Cujo manages to be realistic and terrifying. Stephen King's books are often banned or challenged for explicit language and violence, but I firmly believe that I should have the freedom to choose - [The most frequently challenged book of the decade by Lynne](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/the-most-frequently-challenged-book-of-the-decade-by-lynne/) - It's amazing to me that the most frequently challenged book(s) of the last decade was the Harry Potter series. The complaints ranged from it being anti-family and violent to accusations of occultism and Satanism. I'm not usually a series person, but this is one of the few that I read to the end. What was - [Patron Reviews](https://topshamlibrary.org/patron-review/patron-reviews/) - Playful Learning: Develop Your Child’s Sense of Joy and Wonder by Mariah Bruehl Review by Monique Marchilli-Barker Mariah Bruehl is a parent with over a decade of experience in the field of education. After making the decision to leave her job and stay home, she set out to supplement her daughter’s education by providing meaningful - [Nature Journaling Workshop for Adults](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/nature-journaling-workshop-for-adults/) - Please join us at the Topsham Public Library for our first nature journaling workshop for adults:During this workshop you will learn:sourceWhat a nature journal is, what to include, and the various styles;sourceThe benefits of keeping a nature journal;the "art of observation", and more.Intrigued? Join us to discover the joy of nature journaling! We hope to see - [Did you miss it?](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/did-you-miss-it/) - If you weren't able to join us for the Nature Journaling workshop for adults or if you are interested in learning more about nature journaling, check out the slide presentation from the workshop. And you'll definitely want to also check out these great resources:Nature Journaling ResourcesBooks:Keeping a Nature Journal, Clare Walker LeslieThe Nature Connection: An - [Seeds of Fall](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/seeds-of-fall/) - Autumn is such a beautiful season here in New England and a great time to enjoy nature's wonders. Upon first glance, our gardens may already seem to be starting their winter slumber. There just doesn't seem to be much going on. But, take a closer look...Plants are hoping to send off their seeds before their - [Happy Spring!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/happy-spring/) - Looking out the window you might not know that spring is officially here. Yes, Mother Nature seems to be at her spring cleaning and is sweeping out all the remaining snow from every nook and cranny but we are Mainers and have come to expect a good spring snow storm. We are not about to - [We have both at the TPL!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/we-have-both-at-the-tpl/) - “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.”― Marcus Tullius Cicero - [WANTED: MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEERS](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/wanted-master-gardener-volunteers/) - The library is looking for Master Gardener Volunteers to take on discrete projects and assist in the maintenance of others. Several Master Gardener volunteers have already contributed to the project and two MGVs maintain a continuing relationship with the project.Volunteers are needed toDesign and/or build of raised or vertical beds appropriate for Universal Access Garden, - [Garden Structures](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/garden-structures/) - We're on the look out for simple, sturdy designs for garden structures that would fit in the TPL gardens. I ran across this site on a Google search: http://www.grandiflora.pro/cool-pics/structures-bridges-and-follies.Here's one that I think could be scaled down to for different purposes. But I really like the idea of follies, something for garden decoration but suggesting another purpose, - [Nature Journaling Workshop, Part II: Phenology](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/nature-journaling-workshop-part-ii-phenology/) - We are so excited about the upcoming nature journaling workshop! This is the second in our summer series and will focus on phenology. New to phenology? Don’t let the scientific-sounding word scare you. It’s really quite simple. If you’d like to read more about it before joining us, check out this post.See you this Saturday, - [Phenology Resources](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/phenology-resources/) - If you missed the Phenology Nature Journaling workshop and are interested in learning more, please check out our nature journaling resources page as well as our activity download page. If you have tried any of our activities, we'd love to hear from you! Share with us how you used them, any suggestions you may have, - [Patterns in Nature](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/patterns-in-nature/) - The patterns that can be found in nature are just amazing. Here's a quick video to give you a sense...Would you like to find out what patterns you can discover? Join us on the 20th at 1pm for the last in our nature journaling series: Patterns in Nature.Hope to see you then! - [Welcome!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/welcome/) - Welcome to the new Topsham Tales! We have changed platforms from Blogger to Wordpress to enhance your blog experience. - [Horseweed](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/horseweed/) - HORSEWEEDI spent a little over an hour on Saturday pulling just one type of weed from the birdsong garden. The weather was beautiful and there was a pleasant wind which made weeding less a chore. This is a common weed known as Horseweed and can grow in almost any area of your garden. The weed - [INVASIVES AT TPL](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/51/) - This past Saturday, Bernardo and I spent more time trying to distinguish between American and Oriental Bittersweet than actually ridding the garden of it. Needless to say, we left most of it in place but pulled some down off of of a small tree to prevent any future harm, and to provide an up-close photo - [Latest New York Times Bestseller Lists](https://topshamlibrary.org/bestseller-lists/latest-new-york-times-bestseller-lists/) - Fiction and nonfiction. - [Julie's Top 5 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/julies-top-5-of-2013/) - 1. Locke and Key By Joe Hill A series of graphic novels about siblings overcoming tragedies in a very weird house! 2. Magic Rises by Ilona Andrews Continuing Kate Daniels' story in the magic-plagued city of Atlanta. Kate is a very strong character and I love to read how she saves the world! 3. - [Winter Garden Fun](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/winter-garden-fun/) - Are you finding yourself longing for green garden views during these cold and snowy Maine days? There's no reason why your garden can't be a fun and inviting space during the winter months. We've put together a collection of fun ideas to help overcome the winter doldrums. Build Snow Animals: The National Wildlife Federation Kids has - [Susan's Top 6 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/susans-top-6-of-2013/) - 1. We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler 2. Escape from Camp 14 by Blaine Harden 3. Secret Daughter by Shilipi Somaya Gowda 4. Caleb’s Crossing by Geraldine Brooks 5. The Sevenwaters series by Juliet Marillier 6. Quiet: the power of introverts in a world that can't stop talking by Susan Cain - [National Seed Swap Day](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/national-seed-swap-day/) - Did you know that there is a National Seed Swap day? There is! It's the last Saturday of January every year. Check out this link to learn more:National Seed Swap Day Although the date has come and gone, it's never too late to do a little seed swapping. If you're ready for some spring-time fun - [New additions to the JIC collection!](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/new-additions-to-the-jic-collection/) - Are you looking for a job, interested in changing careers or thinking about college? Check out our Job Information Center (JIC) down by the periodicals for information on colleges, study guides, resume building and more! Check out our pinterest board for new additions to the collection: http://www.pinterest.com/topshampl/jic-collection/ Don't forget we are featuring a job class - [A Thank You from The Friends of the Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-tales/a-thank-you-from-the-friends-of-the-topsham-public-library/) - Thank You, Topsham The Friends of the Topsham Public Library once again want to extend a sincere thank you to the amazing citizens of Topsham and the entire community. We had a very successful book sale. Your support is never ending and much appreciated. We brought in over $8,000 which will be used to support - [Placemaking](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/128/) - I just read an article called "What Makes a Successful Place" on the Project for Public Spaces website. You can find the article here: http://www.pps.org/reference/grplacefeat/. Their PlaceMaking blog is listed on our blog list. The article has a good graphic that can be used to evaluate public spaces. Something to aim at. The article made me - [TPL Gardens](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/139/) - Hey here's the first post. Getting started with the blog. Posting material that we want to show potential sponsors for the Library's universal access initiative. I'm adding colors to a portion of the plan Irene's begun developing. Here's what I have so far: Stay tuned as we plan for the party on September 8th! - [](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/138/) - Have you taken the opportunity to visit and enjoy the gardens behind our wonderful library? It’s a beautiful space to stroll, sit, contemplate, meet with friends, and read. Did you also know that it is a terrific place to bring your nature journal? That’s exactly what a group of young library-goers did this past June - [Anyone can...](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/anyone-can/) - If you enjoy being outside, if you appreciate the beauty of nature, if you would like to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world, then please join us at the Topsham Public Library for our very first Nature Journaling workshop for adults. If you would like to make time to slow down; if you want to - [Seedfolks](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/seedfolks/) - Lately we have been reading lots of garden-related stories: Seedfolks, Rose's Garden, Plant a Kiss, and more. But these stories are not just about planting gardens. They are about so much more, like planting seeds of hope for a future filled with beauty. About the power of nature. About how simple gestures bloom into something - [It’s Getting Greener!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/its-getting-greener/) - Have you noticed? It’s greening up outside and it’s beautiful! Go ahead... While you’re at the library, take a stroll around our gardens. There are some lovely flowers blooming and all sorts of new growth. And speaking of new growth, have you ever noticed how many different shades of green there are? The - [A Great Day and Another Coming Up...](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/a-great-day-and-another-coming-up/) - Last month the Topsham Public Library Garden Committee hosted a Garden open-house and what a lovely day it was! The weather was perfect, volunteers were hard at work, children played, laughed and made some nature crafts and we even made a few new friends. We call that a success! Thank you to all - [Monday Inspirations: Green](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/monday-inspirations-green/) - Hello again. Happy Monday. Are you looking forward to your week? We are definitely looking forward to our nature journaling workshop this Saturday. We sure hope to see you there... Until then, we're here to provide a little inspiration for working some nature exploration into your week. We promise it'll be fun! The following activities - [Nature Journaling Photos and Resources](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/nature-journaling-photos-and-resources/) - Here's a glimpse of our Intro to Nature Journaling workshop held this past Saturday: Micro-worlds were unveiled, often overlooked details noticed with new eyes and excitement, and maybe even a new species of spider discovered! Thank you to all who joined us. What a perfect it day it was to be out exploring the gardens! - [Celebrate the Great Maine Outdoor weekend with us!](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/celebrate-the-great-maine-outdoor-weekend-with-us/) - Bring your family to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature this winter right here at the Topsham Public Library... Saturday, February 14th-16th is the Great Maine Outdoor Weekend and we are hosting two events on Saturday the 15th: From 9:15 on will be a hands-on exploration and identification of the trees along the library's - [Bird feeder Activity](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/bird-feeder-activity/) - WINTER IN THE GARDEN Bird Feeder Activity Day February 15, 2014 DIY bird feeder made out of toilet paper rolls and garden twine . Hanging edible bird feeders. Each was made with a birdseed/flour mixture and left to harden. Volunteers making popcorn garland to hang in the trees and bushes. Volunteer rolling the toilet paper - [New York Times Bestsellers](https://topshamlibrary.org/bestseller-lists/new-york-times-bestsellers/) - Here is the latest fiction and nonfiction bestsellers. - [New York Times Best Sellers](https://topshamlibrary.org/bestseller-lists/new-york-times-best-sellers/) - Here are the New York Times latest best Sellers: fiction and nonfiction. - [Murder Mystery Dinner 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-programs/murder-mystery-dinner-2013/) - We had a great time this weekend at our annual Murder Mystery Dinner. A glamorous group from the 1920's landed in a modern day London flat courtesy of H.G. Wells' time machine! The only thing is, someone murdered Wells and the time machine was broken! Whodunnit? There were many suspects: Dame Agatha Christie, James Joyce, - [Banned Books Week is here!](https://topshamlibrary.org/information/banned-books-week-is-here/) - All this week we will be celebrating Banned Books week here at the library. There will be a special display at the library, a dedicated pinterest board (join us here) and TPL staff will share some of their favorite banned books here on the blog. Do you have a favorite banned or challenged book? Let - [The Banned Book I Bought at the Book Sale by Emma](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/the-banned-book-i-bought-at-the-book-sale-by-emma/) - Today I went to the Friends of Topsham Public Library's book sale and bought a banned book! I purchased Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak for my niece and nephew. It was banned in many places but went on to win many awards including the Caldecott Medal. There have been many criticisms leveled - [What are TPL Staff Reading?](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/what-are-tpl-staff-reading/) - Stuck for something to read? Check out what the TPL staff are reading on our pinterest board: http://www.pinterest.com/topshampl/what-tpl-staff-are-reading/ - [Emma's Top 10 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/uncategorized/emmas-top-10-of-2013/) - 1. Tenth of December by George Saunders This collection of short stories by MacArthur genius grant winner, Saunders, has really polarized opinion. People either love it or hate it and I am one of the former. The seeming simplicity of Saunder's writing belies an ability to make the reader empathize with the downtrodden and disenfranchised - [Lynne's Top 5 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/lynnes-top-5-of-2013/) - 1. Me Before You by JoJo Moyes 2. Wonder by R.J. Palacio 3. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman 4. Ben Behind his Voices by Ranye Kaye 5. Let's Pretend this Never Happened by Jenny Lawson - [Dale's Top 5 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/dales-top-5-of-2013/) - 1. Boardwalk Empire (TV Series) 2. Troll Hunter (Film) 3. Call of Duty Ghosts (Video Game) 4. Homeland (TV Series) 5. The Bell Witch Haunting (Film) - [Linda's Top 5 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/lindas-top-5-of-2013/) - Bury Your Dead by Louise Penny Once again, Louise Penny is at the top of my list. Each installation of her Inspector Gamache series is better than the last. In her sixth mystery, she actually weaves together two complete storylines, which could stand on their own, and for a coup de gras, adds a ribbon - [Jen's Top 5 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/jens-top-5-of-2013/) - 1. Movie: Catching Fire 2. Book: The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers 3. Movie: Star Trek Into Darkness 4. CD: Rise by Skillet 5. Book: Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage - [Helen's Top 6 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/helens-top-6-of-2013/) - 1. Two Graves by Douglas Preston/Lincoln Child 2. The Blood Gospel by James Rollins 3. NOS4A2 by Joe Hill 4. Joyland by Stephen King 5. Stoker’s Manuscript by Royce Prouty 6. The Black Country by Alex Grecian - [Cyndi's Top 5 of 2013!](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/cyndis-top-5-of-2013/) - 1. The Good Nurse: A True Story Of Medicine, Madness, and Murder by Charles Graeber 2. The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith 3. Burning Blue by Paul Griffin 4. Magic Rises by Ilona Daniels 5. Shades of Earth: An Across the Universe Novel by Beth Revis - [Bernardo's Top 5 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/bernardos-top-5-of-2013/) - The Legend of Korra by Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino (TV Series) Seth’s Blog by Seth Godin (Blog) The Quantum Thief by Hannu Rajaniemi (Book) The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore and Charlie Adlard (Graphic Novel) Sharp Teeth by Toby Barlow (Book) - [Mariah's Top 6 of 2013](https://topshamlibrary.org/staff-picks/mariahs-top-6-of-2013/) - Adult fiction: Tenth of December by George Saunders Amazing. I could try to write a review but it wouldn’t do this book justice! Read it! Juvenile fiction: The Magician’s Elephant by Kate DiCamillo When a magician accidentally conjures an elephant out of thin air, it sets off a chain of events that will change the - [The results are in....](https://topshamlibrary.org/special-events/the-results-are-in/) - Topsham's favorite book is.... Harry Potter! Joint Second Place: Divergent by Veronica Roth, Elephant and Piggie by Mo Willems Joint Third Place: The Bible, Cave of the Clan Bear, Curious George, Geronimo Stilton, Gone with the Wind, Little Blue Truck, Pride and Prejudice, The Secret History, Smile, To Kill a Mockingbird, A Tree Grows in - [Master Gardener Volunteers](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/master-gardener-volunteers/) - The Maine Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteers Program has been crucial in supplying volunteers, know-how and inspiration to the Topsham Public Library Gardens. The project began by bringing community volunteers together around an Eagle Scout project to shape the Children's Garden into a learning and event space that would extend the library's mission to its outdoor - [Please include TPL Gardens on your Saturday, May 17](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/please-include-tpl-gardens-on-your-saturday-may-17/) - ....to help us dig and have a good time this Saturday May 17th. Volunteers are tremendously important to the TPL Gardens. Saturday May 17, from 10AM until 1PM we are looking for energetic individuals to help us with a variety of duties. We're building different sorts of raised beds. We'll need extra muscle power to dig, - [Hugelkultur at TPL](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/hugelkultur-at-tpl/) - Hugel-what? Some new and exciting raised beds in the TPL Gardens this year will include a hugelkultur (pronounced hoogle culture). In German, the rough translation means "round culture". This is a sustainable gardening technique using woody debris (fallen branches and/or logs) as a natural foundation. Woody debris becomes sponge-like, and absorbs lots of vital nutrients - [From our friends at UMaine Cooperative Extension](https://topshamlibrary.org/news/from-our-friends-at-umaine-cooperative-extension/) - Falmouth, Maine — The 21st annual University of Maine Cooperative Extension Cumberland County Master Gardener Volunteer plant sale will be held rain or shine Saturday, May 17, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the Barron Center, 1145 Brighton Ave., Portland. UMaine Extension Master Gardeners Volunteers will answer questions and help attendees pick plants that best suit their needs. - [Spring is HERE!](https://topshamlibrary.org/news/spring-is-here/) - Yes!!! We started cleaning up the garden and gearing up for the season. Big THANK YOU to volunteers Robert DuBois and Sue Ham who started the spring clean-up and gathering materials. This year we hope to put in at least 2 if not 3 raised beds, all of them slightly unconventional-- hugelkultur, spiral, tray height; - [Signs of Spring](https://topshamlibrary.org/news/signs-of-spring/) - ARE WE THERE YET? Ok, ok. It's been a long winter. As we approach March-end with temperatures still averaging in the mid thirties, the snow is melting. We promise! We may not force the snow to disappear any faster, but the Garden Committee is dedicated to making this the best launch ever of the gardening season! - [Secret Life of Insects](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/secret-life-of-insects/) - See what's buzzing at the Topsham Public LibraryClick the images to see closeups. Butterfly on purple liatris Bumblebee on white liatris Moth hiding in a yellow lilyGreat Golden Digger Wasps and a Japanese Beetle share a Purple Globe Thistle Japanese Beetle on purple coneflower (Echinacea)The white dot that appears on the back of the beetle is where a Tachinid - [A Snowy Bird Feeder](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/a-snowy-bird-feeder/) - Our next bird feeder has been inspired by one of our favorite books: Stranger in the Woods. With our current weather, I'd say it's perfect timing. Here's how to do it: Build a snow man, woman, dog, elephant... whatever you like. Add a carrot or orange nose; some nut eyes, mouth and buttons; and sprinkle with - [For the Birds](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/for-the-birds/) - Did you know that February is National Bird-Feeding Month?It was established in 1994 as way to publicize the importance and benefits of helping out our feathered friends.Why February? This is traditionally the hardest month for wild birds to find food sources as well as water and shelter. I can't think of a better month to show - [Nature Crafts](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/nature-crafts/) - As I look at the calendar and think about the upcoming holidays, I'm also starting to think of snow. It'll be here soon. But I still want to hold on to the beauty that the fall season has to offer. I'm not quite ready to slip into winter.If you are feeling the same, here are - [About the Children’s Garden](https://topshamlibrary.org/tpl-gardens/about-the-childrens-garden/) - What makes a place a “children’s garden?” Colorful flowers and features to engage all the senses are certainly high on the list. It might have a theme that appeals to children, or it might include whimsical plants with unusual shapes. It should certainly attract little creatures, such as birds, bees and butterflies, that delight little ## Pages - [Home](https://topshamlibrary.org/) - Go to the catalog Make a donation now Library News Programs and Events - [New Books and More](https://topshamlibrary.org/kids/new-books-and-more-kids/) - New Books For a list of new early reader AND picture books CLICK HERE! For a list of new nonfiction AND chapter books CLICK HERE! For a list of new DVDs/CDs/audio books CLICK HERE! We have a subscription to Scholastic’s Bookflix!! Bookflix pairs a picture book with an easy nonfiction book for learning AND fun! - [Drop-In Programs](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/programs-and-events/drop-in-programs/) - Live Tech Help (Drop-In) Need help setting up email or cloudLibrary? How about printing from your laptop? Do you know how to download apps? Dale will be available to help you navigate your devices. Tuesdays 1 – 3pm Thursdays 10am – 12pm - [Policies](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/) - Our policies are established by the Board of Directors and amended to reflect best practice in serving our patrons. If you have any questions regarding policies or how they are implemented at Topsham Public Library, contact our Library Director, Katherine Webber. Bulletin Boards CIPA-Compliant Internet Safety Collection Development Conflict of Interest Corporation By-Laws Email List - [Trustees](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/trustees/) - Phil Dostie is a Maine native and has lived in Topsham since 2006 and joined the TPL board of Trustees in 2021, he currently works at Bates College as an Assistant in Instruction in the Environmental Geochemistry Laboratory. He is a lifelong reader and is passionate about making sure that all members of the Topsham community have access to - [Meetings & Reports](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/meetings-reports/) - Monthly Meeting Agenda - FY26 Next Meeting: Wednesday, August 19 Wednesday, June 17Special Meeting - Board Bylaws Annual Meeting Business Meeting Wednesday, May 20 Wednesday, April 15 Wednesday, March 18 Wednesday, February 18 Wednesday, January 21 Wednesday, December 17 Wednesday, November 19 Wednesday, October 15 Wednesday, September 17 Monday, September 15 Wednesday, August 20 Monthly - [Library Staff](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/library-staff/) - Katherine Webber, Director director@topshamlibrary.org Steven Bouchard, Assistant Director sbouchard@topshamlibrary.org Emma J. Gibbon, Adult Services Librarian emma@topshamlibrary.org Mariah Sewall, Children's Librarian mariah@topshamlibrary.org Megan Hultman, Teen Librarian mhultman@topshamlibrary.org Clint McDowell, Circulation Supervisor tplcirc@topshamlibrary.org Dale Morgan, Tech Support tpltech@topshamlibrary.org Carrie Hawks, Cataloger carrie@topshamlibrary.org Heather Rogers, Administrative Assistant / Bookkeeper tpltreasurer@topshamlibrary.org Kelsie Vosburgh, Gallery Coordinator tplgallery@topshamlibrary.org Linda Meadows, Library - [Lending Information](https://topshamlibrary.org/resources-materials/lending-information/) - As part of the Maine InfoNet Consortium, Topsham Public Library is a Minerva library. Minerva is a shared library system that brings together nearly 60 libraries of all types from across the state. Its catalog includes over six million items that are available to Topsham Public Library patrons. This means you can request books, audiobooks, DVDs, music - [New Books and More](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/new-books-and-more-adults/) - This month's Up and Coming listUp and Coming archive Check out our featured lists! These take you directly to the catalog and feature all the items we added to the collection in the last 6 months! They are updated every month. New Fiction and Nonfiction Books (including audio)New DVDs Find Your Next Read Book Series - [Up and Coming Releases](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/new-books-and-more-adults/up-and-coming-releases/) - This is the current listing of newly ordered items at the library. If you can't find them in the catalog they haven't arrived yet. Please keep trying. You can access our catalog and your patron account to renew and reserve items by clicking here. The eBooks and eAudiobooks listed here are bought for the exclusive - [Up and Coming Releases Archive](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/new-books-and-more-adults/up-and-coming-releases-archive/) - Back to Up & Coming Releases January – March 2026 Books, Fiction Adams, Sarah-In Your Dreams Adams, Taylor-Her Last Breath Adkins, Ace-Everybody Wants to Rule the World Alexander, Tj-Lady for All Seasons Al-Wasity, Heba-Weavingshaw Amor, Gemma-First Date Anders, Adriana-Dom-Com Andrews, Ilona-This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me Armstrong, Kelley-First Sign of Danger Ascher, Aurora-Beauty and the - [Crooker Gallery](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/the-crooker-gallery/) - If you would like to receive emails about our annual JOY exhibits, please sign up here. Click here to learn about what's currently on exhibit. About: Topsham is conveniently located midway between the Greater Portland and Mid Coast areas. Topsham Public Library serves the community as a vital center for meeting, learning, cultural enrichment, and - [Spring Fundraising Appeal](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/spring-fundraising-appeal/) - We hear you, Topsham – let’s get outside together! In our recent community survey, better use of our outdoor space was your highest priority. This spring, the library is growing its outdoor area into an even more vibrant, welcoming space for all. Our goal is to raise $10,000 by June 15 to begin this project - [Donate Now](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/donate-now/) - To donate to our 2026 Spring Fundraising Appeal, please click here. - [The Foreside Club](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/the-foreside-club/) - Foreside Club Members contribute a recurring monthly donation of any amount during the Topsham Public Library’s Annual Appeal and beyond. They are committed to our vision of sustaining an informed, dynamic, and engaged community. Members receive a special window sticker for their home or vehicle. For more information, email director@topshamlibrary.org or call and ask for - [Tech Support](https://topshamlibrary.org/tech-support/) - Need help with your computer or device? The Topsham Public Library is here to help. Email Dale at tpltech@topshamlibrary.org. Tech Help (Drop-In) Need help setting up email or cloudLibrary? How about printing from your laptop? Do you know how to download apps? Dale will be available to help you navigate your devices. Mondays 10am - - [Services](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/services/) - Books on Wheels Topsham library card holders--are you currently without transportation? Caring for sick children and unable toget out? Nursing a broken leg? Whatever your reason for not being able to get out, we can help! You can have books, audios, or other materials from the Topsham Public Library delivered directly to you! Here’s how it - [Chronology of Book Series](https://topshamlibrary.org/chronology-of-book-series/) - Series are arranged in alphabetical order by the authors' last names. Click on the first letter of the author's last name and scroll down the page until you reach your author. To return to the grid, click on the back arrow at the top left corner of the page. - [Family Museum and Park Passes](https://topshamlibrary.org/resources-materials/family-museum-and-park-passes/) - Topsham Public Library patrons are encouraged to take advantage of family passes to several area attractions made available for one-day use as a gift from the Friends of the Topsham Public Library. It’s easy to reserve your pass. Simply pick a date and contact the library to see if the pass is available. When you - [Teens](https://topshamlibrary.org/teens/) - The Topsham Public Library is a welcoming, accepting, and safe environment for teens. The teen collection and programs constantly evolve to reflect suggestions made by teens. We select a wide variety of young adult material to provide a choice for every teen that walks through our door. We aim to provide the materials teens want, - [Joy of the Lens](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/the-crooker-gallery/joy-of-the-lens/) - The annual Joy of the Lens exhibit, inaugurated in 2009, features original photographs by current Maine residents, both amateur and professional, aged 16 or older. The three entry categories are: Color, Black & White, and a special “Challenge." Awards are made in all three categories with an additional Peoples’ Choice Award announced at the close of the - [Current Gallery Exhibit](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/the-crooker-gallery/current-gallery-exhibit/) - In the Crooker Gallery: Joy of Art 2026 Joy of Art is on display in the Crooker Gallery and Highlands Community room through February 4th, 2026. Join us on January 17th from 1:00-2:30 at the reception for this year's Joy of Art exhibit. Winners will be announced in several categories, and attendees can vote for - [Joy of Art](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/the-crooker-gallery/joy-of-art-open/) - The annual Joy of Art exhibit, inaugurated in 2008, features two-dimensional and three-dimensional work by current Maine artists, both amateur and professional, aged 16 or older. Awards are made in several categories identified in the published guidelines with an additional Peoples’ Choice Award announced at the close of the exhibit. This signature event is co-sponsored by the - [Annual Appeal](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/annual-appeal/) - For less than the cost of the average streaming service, you can help support the mission of the library. By selecting one of the donation options below, you can either give $7 per month and become a member of the Foreside Club or make one donation of $120 and join our Whitten Society. If you - [Joy Of Art 2026 Registration](https://topshamlibrary.org/joy-of-art-2026-registration/) - [Online Resources](https://topshamlibrary.org/resources-materials/online-resources/) - Topsham Public Library has a rich array of online resources which are available to all our patrons. Many of them you can access in your own home or wherever there is an internet connection--all you need is your library card! Website Guide Download Library (cloudLibrary) New to cloudLibrary? Click Here Access your cloudLibrary account Here - [Helpful Links](https://topshamlibrary.org/teens/helpful-links/) - cloudlibrary digital library collection - [Topsham History](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-history/) - Mill island detail from 1877 Brunswick-Topsham Topsham was approved as an incorporated township in 1764. European settlement was established in the 1715 to 1725 period when homesteads were established on 100 acre lots along the lower Androscoggin River. During this period, the developer, the Pejepscot Proprietors, built and leased the region’s first sawmill at the - [Library of Things](https://topshamlibrary.org/resources-materials/in-library-materials/) - We have over 45,000 items in our collection (not including all the items available through interlibrary loan). Most of these items are available for free with your library card. We have a wide variety of books (fiction and nonfiction), audiobooks, newspapers, magazines, movies, TV shows, music and even video games in our adult, teen and - [Rare Reads](https://topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/) - Welcome to the Rare Reads book group page. This page will feature book lists, news and a place to discuss! Rare Reads is a book group that discusses unusual and interesting fiction (and sometimes nonfiction) at Topsham Public Library. We usually meet on the third Thursday of every month at 6pm. Interesting in becoming a - [About Us](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/) - Our Mission The Topsham Public Library connects people with resources, programs, and each other to stimulate personal growth, enrich minds, and support community. Our Vision To sustain an informed, dynamic, and engaged community. Directions How to Get a Library Card Library Staff Trustees History Policies Meetings - [Events and Activities](https://topshamlibrary.org/kids/events-and-activities/) - For information or to sign up for any of the following programs, email Mariah (mariah@topshamlibrary.org) or call the library at 725-1727. - [Contact Us](https://topshamlibrary.org/contact-us/) - [New teen titles & programming!](https://topshamlibrary.org/teens/whats-new/) - Click on the cover to request the book Click here to view video games Watch for the grab-n-go kits in the teen room, find a new kit each month. Comic Plus provides access to a collection of over 20,000 comics and graphic novels, which are all available all the time, and there is no check - [How to get a card](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/how-to-get-a-card/) - The Details... Topsham Public Library is supported by the taxpayers of Topsham. Topsham residents and/or property owners are eligible for a free library card. Library cards can be obtained in person during regular library hours. To be issued a card, patrons must show a valid ID and proof of address (a lease, utility bill or - [Library Card Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/library-card-policy/) - Library Card Policy FINAL Feb 2025 - [Resources for Families](https://topshamlibrary.org/kids/onlineresourcesforfamilies/) - Bookflix: Bookflix pairs a picture book with an easy nonfiction book for learning AND fun! Books can be read as an ebook, or read aloud by the computer. You can change the speed of reading, take quizzes and play word matching games, and explore more resources online with recommended kid-friendly sites! Just enter your - [The Highlands Room](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/the-highlands-room/) - Funded by the residents of The Highlands, whose gifts were matched by generous owner John Wasileski, the Highlands Community Room is a large multi-purpose room that seats about 100 people. The room’s sound system, LCD projector, and WiFi connection, along with easy access to Crooker Gallery, TPL Gardens and adjacent parking, make this a coveted space - [Contributors](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/contributors/) - Contributors have donated up to $119 during our annual appeal. Anonymous (64) James Adams * Melissa & Brian Alexander Pauline & John Applin * Audie Arbo Katherine H. Babbitt Susan Bancroft Jeanne Bamforth Kelly Barton Janice Benson Rev. Robert Beringer ** Michael Bernier Rayleen Berry Tom Bethea David & Susan Blanchard Kathleen Boldt Nathaniel Bowditch - [The Whitten Society](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/the-whitten-society/) - Whitten Society Members contribute $120 or more to Topsham Public Library’s Annual Appeal. Members of the Whitten Society are invested in our mission to be a community center for all, connecting people to knowledge and to each other. Members receive invitations to Whitten Society events, their name on a bookplate inside a library item, and - [Business Sponsors](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/business-sponsors/) - Topsham Public Library Business Sponsorship “A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people. It is a never failing spring in the desert.” --Andrew Carnegie, entrepreneur, businessman, philanthropist The Topsham Public Library owes much of what it is today to business and community leaders who, like Andrew Carnegie, dedicated - [Highlands Community Room Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/highlands-community-room-policy/) - Highlands Meeting Room Policy (2024 update) - [Adults](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/) - Topsham Public Library is proud to present a plethora of materials, programs and services for adults. See what new items we have added to the collection on our new books and more page, check out programs and events and the services we provide. Need information or have a question about our adult services? Contact Emma here. Topsham Public - [Collection Development Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/collection-development-policy/) - Introduction The Topsham Public Library (TPL) is committed to providing traditional library service, which promotes reading as a route to lifelong learning and improved quality of life. At the same time, the library will continue to evolve as the community center for all in Topsham. TPL provides, within its ability, a popular collection designed to - [Annual Appeal](https://topshamlibrary.org/annual-appeal/) - [Book Groups](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/programs-and-events/book-groups/) - Book Look (Sept-May) 1st Tuesday @ 11am Book Look is a longstanding book club held at The Highlands' Kennebec Room in the main lodge on the first Tuesday of the month from September - May. For over 15 years, Topsham Public Library's Directors have been leading discussions about fiction and nonfiction books chosen by the - [Interlibrary Loan Update 8/13/24](https://topshamlibrary.org/interlibrary-loan-update-6-11-24/) - I’m happy to share that late last week State Procurement Review Committee approved the contract with STAT Courier and we have a restart date for van delivery as well as ILL van delivery requesting! Van delivery with STAT will begin on Monday, August 26. They will need a week to run through routes while picking - [Libraries Build Business](https://topshamlibrary.org/libraries-build-business/) - Press Release Topsham Public Library announced that they have received funding from the American Library Association to build capacity and expand their programming to small businesses and entrepreneurs from low-income and underrepresented groups. Topsham Public Library is one of 13 public libraries around the country to receive this funding from Libraries Build Business, an initiative of the - [Legacy Giving](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/planned-giving/) - A gift to the Topsham Public Library can make a significant difference to the community. Using a planned giving vehicle, you can combine your estate planning with your financial and philanthropic objectives. A legacy gift is a charitable contribution of any asset; current or deferred. Though bequests and wills are the most prominent sources of - [Programs and Events](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/programs-and-events/) - Topsham Public Library provides a wide variety of programs and events for adults. From book groups and lectures to computer help, crafts, special events and much, much more, there is something for everyone! Click on the links below for more information: Online Author TalksBook GroupsComputer HelpThe Joy of... SeriesMusicSummer Reading You can find out information on upcoming - [Support](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/) - How Can You Help? There are many ways you can help us here at Topsham Public Library! Become a Contributor or join The Whitten Society by making a donation or in-kind gift Learn more about Legacy Giving Become a Business Sponsor at one of our five levels Join the Friends of the Topsham Public Library, which supports virtually all library - [Board of Trustees Application](https://topshamlibrary.org/board-of-trustees-application/) - The Governance Committee of the Topsham Public Library Board of Trustees seeks interested community members to fill open Board seats beginning July 1, 2024. The Board of Trustees is the governing board responsible for setting policies and overseeing the overall operation of the library as implemented by the Library Director. The library’s mission: “The Topsham - [Lectures](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/programs-and-events/lectures/) - [Music](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/programs-and-events/music/) - Music in March Every March we celebrate the coming of spring with our very popular Music in March concert series. We've welcomed musicians as diverse as flute ensemble, Candelia, bluegrass band, Pejepscot Station, Bowdoin College's female a capella group, Miscellania, Brunswick folk singer, Jud Caswell and the Nor'easters Barbershop Quartet. The concerts take place in - [Contact Cyndi](https://topshamlibrary.org/teens/contact-cyndi/) - Have questions or suggestions about teen books, programs or the library? Call Cyndi at the library(725-1727), email cyndi@topshamlibrary.org, or stop by and visit. - [TPL Gardens](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/tpl-gardens/) - Take a stroll in the Topsham Public Library Gardens. Read a book, use free wi-fi, hang out, or volunteer. It’s a place to grow ideas and make the library a community center for all. The garden is overseen by the TPL Gardens Committee. If you're interested in getting involved call Sarah Wolpow at 721-0941 - [The Joy of... Series](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/programs-and-events/the-joy-of-series/) - The Joy of...series comprises of three cultural events at Topsham Public Library that are co-sponsored by the Friends of the Topsham Public Library: Joy of Art, Joy of the Lens and Joy of the Pen. Joy of Art The Joy of Art is our annual judged art exhibit which features original artwork by Maine residents, - [Linda's Favorite Mystery Series](https://topshamlibrary.org/lindas-favorite-mystery-series/) - The Lady Georgiana Series by Rhys Bowen Meet Lady Georgiana, 34th in line for the British throne. She leaves the family castle in Scotland to make her own way in the world. It’s not too long before she finds trouble, in the form of a body in her bath. Light, humorous, and easy to read, - [Mystery Read-Alikes](https://topshamlibrary.org/mystery-read-alikes/) - Back to Mysteries Abound IF YOU LIKE: Susan Wittig Albert C. J. Box Edna Buchanan Agatha Christie Michael Connelly Janet Evanovich Sue Grafton Steve Hamilton Tony Hillerman P.D. James Iris Johansen Ngaio Marsh Archer Mayor Robert Parker James Patterson Ann Perry Charles Todd Susan Wittig Albert – China Bayles, herbal shop owner series, you may - [Linda's Top Mysteries](https://topshamlibrary.org/lindas-top-mysteries/) - Back to Mysteries Abound For several years the library staff has chosen their top 5 reads for each year. These stories are my top mysteries from those years. I highly recommend them 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 Top Reads 2023 The Maid/Nita Prose The main character in - [Sarah Whitten Community Award Recipients](https://topshamlibrary.org/support/the-whitten-society/sarah-whitten-community-award-recipients/) - In 2015, the library’s Board of Trustees launched the Sarah Whitten Community Award, which recognizes a community member for their outstanding service to the library and community. The award is given in the spirit of the library’s first donor, Sarah Whitten, who donated her family home in 1941 to serve as Topsham’s first library. Award - [Kids](https://topshamlibrary.org/kids/) - Topsham Public Library is a great place for kids and families! We are a Family Place Library, offering spaces to play and interact in the library, as well as lots of fun, family-oriented programs! Events & Activities Find out what's going on at the library! New Books and More Lists of new books, book recommendations, - [Author Fair](https://topshamlibrary.org/author-fair/) - Please note that we are now full! We're putting folks on a waitlist so feel free to apply to be put on that! - [Everything Breathes](https://topshamlibrary.org/everything-breathes/) - [Find Your Next Read](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/new-books-and-more-adults/find-your-next-read/) - Welcome to our Find Your Next Read page. This page will feature resources to find your next read including bookmarks, websites and more! Need a personalized book list? Email Emma at emma@topshamlibrary.org and tell her the last three books you enjoyed. Book Lists Cyndi's YA Titles on CloudLibrary Bookmarks Cyndi's Favorite Teen Graphic Novels Emily's - [Directions](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/directions/) - View Larger Map From the Lewiston/Lisbon area: Drive East on Rt. 196, through Lisbon and Lisbon Falls to Topsham and continue on Rt. 196 onto the Brunswick-Topsham Bypass. Take a left turn at the 2nd light on the bypass onto Bypass Rd. Take a right onto Rt. 24 (Middlesex Rd). Take an immediate left turn - [History](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/history/) - The first library facility in Topsham was established in 1803 as a “social library for the purpose of promoting knowledge”. In 1931, the first public library was incorporated by a group of community-spirited women who established the Topsham Public Library on the second floor of the Androscoggin Firehouse. In 1941, following that tradition, Sarah Whitten - [Community Bulletin Board Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/community-bulletin-board-policy/) - Recognizing Topsham Public Library’s role as a community resource, limited community bulletin board space will be made available for the dissemination of information and announcements from educational, cultural, civic, and not-for-profit groups. The following are the procedures to be followed for the use of Bulletin Boards. Please note: Information regarding contests or solicitations, notices of - [Conflict of Interest Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/conflict-of-interest-policy/) - I. Purpose It is the purpose of this Conflict of Interest Policy (the "Policy") to promote full disclosure to the Topsham Public Library (the "Corporation") of all Conflicts of Interest and other matters which may affect the decisions and actions of its Board of Trustees (the "Board"). II. Conflict of Interest Transactions A. General Statement - [Email List Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/email-list-policy/) - The Topsham Public Library provides information to patrons who wish it via email. The type of information that may be sent via email includes: Information about account status. Notifications about holds, items coming due or overdue items. Program information. Emergency closures or delayed openings. Information directly pertaining to the library or the Friends of the - [Endowment Fund Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/endowment-fund-policy/) - The Endowment Fund is a “Permanently restricted” fund. The principal in this fund shall remain permanently intact in perpetuity, or until the occurrence of a specified event, or for a specified time as described in the terms of the endowment gift. Sub-accounts may be included in this fund with interest tracked on a prorated basis. - [Fraud Prevention Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/fraud-prevention-policy/) - PURPOSE: To ensure that the Topsham Public Library Board of Trustees (Trustees) and employees avoid fraud or related misconduct, and conduct themselves in accordance with high ethical standards in reporting, investigating and resolving fraud or related misconduct as defined in Section 1 of this policy. STATEMENT OF POLICY: Section 1. Fraud is defined as a - [Gallery Policy and Waiver](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/135-2/) - The Crooker Gallery, Highlands Community Room, and other display areas are considered a part of the library’s collection space. The library will present materials in these spaces that are consistent with our mission and collection development policy. Additional criteria that may be used to evaluate appropriateness of materials are: Local interest Relation to other library - [Loan Rules](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/loan-rules/) - Books, audiobooks, and music may be checked out for three weeks. There are no limits on amounts. DVDs may also be checked out for three weeks but are limited to four per patron account. All items may be renewed once for an additional three weeks if no holds have been placed on that item. Damages - [Financial Policies](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/financial-policies/) - The Topsham Public Library strives to have the best possible system of internal controls and financial accounting. These financial policies are set by the Board of Trustees to guide the work of staff and outsourced financial management. I. Finance Committee The Board of Trustees of the Topsham Public Library will appoint a Finance Committee who - [Gift Acceptance Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/gift-acceptance-policy/) - Acceptance of any contribution, gift, grant or other physical item is at the discretion of the Topsham Public Library. The Topsham Public Library will not accept any gift unless it can be used or expended consistently with the purpose and mission of the library. With regard to gifts of artwork, photographs or other personal property: - [Parking Lot Pick Up Service](https://topshamlibrary.org/parking-lot-pick-up-service/) - Not ready to come into the library just yet? Don't worry, we've got you covered! We're still offering parking lot pick up! There are two ways to request materials: 1. If you know exactly what you want, request your items the same way you have in the past, using the online card catalog. If you - [Mysteries Abound](https://topshamlibrary.org/mysteries-abound/) - And it's a good thing too. What would life be without a good mystery to wile away the time? Need suggestions for what to read next? We have new webpage called Find your Next Read. It will be an ongoing resource for book suggestions. It hosts bookmarks like the paper ones in the library that - [Teen Book Review Form](https://topshamlibrary.org/teen-book-review-form/) - [Teen Questionnaire](https://topshamlibrary.org/teen-questionnaire/) - [Sarah Whitten Community Survey](https://topshamlibrary.org/sarah-whitten-community-survey/) - [Sarah Whitten Community Award Survey](https://topshamlibrary.org/sarah-whitten-community-award-survey/) - [Unusual items](https://topshamlibrary.org/resources-materials/unusual-items/) - These items are now Available! Telescope The latest addition to our collection is an Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Scope! Thanks to a grant from Cornerstones of Science, you can check out a telescope just like you would a book. The telescope may be checked out by a member of the Topsham Public Library who is 18 - [Library Events](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/events/) - [Community Center](https://topshamlibrary.org/community-center/) - Topsham Public Library is a community center for all ages! See what is currently being shown in The Crooker Gallery, take a walk in the TPL Gardens and find out more about the The Highlands Community Room. - [What Are You Reading?](https://topshamlibrary.org/what-are-you-reading/) - Since we can't get together to discuss one book, let's share what mysteries we are reading. Send me an email at tplinfo@topshamlibrary.org and I will post whatever you want to write about what you are reading. No spoilers please. 11/4/20 Judy I just finished reading Trick or Treat Murder by Leslie - [Halloween](https://topshamlibrary.org/halloween/) - Fun Halloween Ideas! Read some Halloween books Check out a book from our display, or listen to some online books HERE Have a candy hunt Have a candy scavenger hunt with clues, or just hide candy around the house and/or yard and turn the kids loose! For extra excitement, turn off all the lights and - [Contact Mariah](https://topshamlibrary.org/kids/contact-mariah/) - Have questions about kids books, programs or the library? Call Mariah at the library or email mariah@topshamlibrary.org. Need help finding your next great read? Fill out the form HERE and Mariah will send you some recommendations! - [Need help finding your next great read?](https://topshamlibrary.org/need-help-finding-your-next-great-read/) - [Topsham Public Library Annual Meeting](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-public-library-annual-meeting/) - Your invitation to Topsham Public Library’s Virtual Annual Meeting. The Board of Trustees invite all community members to attend the Annual Meeting which will be held virtually on July 15, 2020 at 7:00 PM. Items of note on this year’s agenda include the recognition of Board members who are stepping down from the Board, election - [Bicentennial Exhibit Photo Submission](https://topshamlibrary.org/bicentennial-exhibit-photo-submission/) - Share your favorite images that capture why you love Maine – from the beauty of Maine’s landscape and wildlife to unique Maine people, activities and experiences to favorite places – and be a part of celebrating our state’s 200th birthday. The deadline has been extended to March 1th! You may submit up to three photos - [Thank You, Topsham](https://topshamlibrary.org/thank-you-topsham/) - The Friends of the Topsham Public Library once again extend a sincere thank you to the amazing citizens of Topsham and the entire community. We had a very successful book sale. Your support is never ending and much appreciated. We raised over $9500, which will be used to support programs and activities at the Library - [Survey](https://topshamlibrary.org/survey/) - [Circulation roundtable dates](https://topshamlibrary.org/circulation-roundtable-dates/) - [Resources & Materials](https://topshamlibrary.org/resources-materials/) - The Collection We have over 45,000 items in our collection (not including all the items available through interlibrary loan). Most of these items are available for free with your library card. The collection includes online resources and in library materials. In addition to this, we also offer Family Museum and Park Passes and you can even check - [Contact Emma](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/contact-emma/) - Have questions about adult books, programs or events at the library? Call Emma at the library or email emma@topshamlibrary.org. - [Solomon Bequest](https://topshamlibrary.org/solomon-bequest/) - The Topsham Public Library has received a generous bequest from the estate of former Topsham resident, Janice Solomon. The Board of Trustees and staff were overwhelmed by the $770,000 donation which has been placed with the Maine Community Foundation for investment as the Trustees work on the Strategic Long Range Plan for 2020-2023. In keeping - [Crafting](https://topshamlibrary.org/adults/programs-and-events/crafting/) - Sip & Stitch Knitting and Crocheting Group Every 1st and 3rd Saturday @ 10am Sip & Stitch is our twice monthly knitting and crocheting group. All abilities are welcome. Come and work on your latest project, share patterns, check out the library's knitting and crocheting resources, and relax with a cup of coffee or tea. - [Honor Someone with a Book](https://topshamlibrary.org/honor-someone-with-a-book/) - Honoring someone with a book is a great way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, milestone, or just because while also adding to the library’s collections How does it work? When you make a donation, we: Give you a card to send to your honoree (or we can do it for you) Place a bookplate with - [Site Map](https://topshamlibrary.org/site-map/) - [Minerva Collection Development Survey](https://topshamlibrary.org/minerva-collection-development-survey/) - [CIPA-Compliant Internet Safety Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/cipa-compliant-internet-safety-policy/) - Introduction The Topsham Public Library provides Internet access through our affiliation with the Maine School and Library Network (MSLN). The Internet is an unregulated medium. Thus, while offering access to a wealth of excellent material, it also offers access to materials that may be offensive, disturbing or illegal. The Topsham Public Library upholds and affirms - [Topsham Public Library Internet Use Policy Change Announcement](https://topshamlibrary.org/topsham-public-library-internet-use-policy-change-announcement/) - To: Topsham Board of Selectmen and Town of Topsham From: Susan M. Preece, Director Date: May 6, 2016 Re: Topsham Public Library Internet Use Policy At the direction of the Governance Committee of the Board of Trustees, I am writing to inform you about a policy change that will be voted upon at the next - [Co-working Room Policy and Agreement Form](https://topshamlibrary.org/co-working-room-policy-and-agreement-form/) - Introduction The Topsham Public Library offers a Co-working office space for members of the public to rent for their personal business use. The space may not be used for any purpose that is unlawful or prohibited by the terms, conditions and notices included in this policy and the attached Terms and Conditions document. The Co-working - [Patron Rights and Responsibilities](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/patron-rights-and-responsibilities/) - The Board of Trustees of the Topsham Public Library is the body responsible for the management of the library. All library patrons have the right to use the library and its resources in safety, confidentiality and privacy. The following are the responsibilities of library users: a. Recognizing that the library building and its contents are - [Your Next <3 Reads](https://topshamlibrary.org/your-next-3-reads/) - Welcome to our special February Reader's Advisory Event - Your Next <3 Reads! Your Next <3 Reads is your chance to get a personalized reading list of 3 titles specially prepared by TPL staff just for you! If you like your recommendations, you can always ask for more. How do you do it? It's easy! - [Your Next <3 Reads Survey](https://topshamlibrary.org/your-next-3-reads-survey/) - [Riverview Cemetery Life Stories in Order](https://topshamlibrary.org/resources-materials/online-resources/riverview-cemetery-life-stories-in-order/) - Area 1 Allen Francis Wheeler (1879-1952)(R1 #3), son of Henry W. Wheeler and Mary Ingraham Adams, married, IN 1908, Ethel Mae Purinton (1882-1922)(R1 #4) and they had Paul Purinton Wheeler(1916-1964)(R1 #1) and Francis Adams Wheeler (b. 1919). In 1940 Paul was living with his father, a mechanical engineer in a textile mill and - [Social Media Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/social-media-policy/) - Objectives: The Topsham Public Library recognizes the importance and benefits of communicating through social media outlets. Social media is a powerful vehicle through which the library can communicate with the community. Guidelines: Please use the following guidelines to assure consistent communications: The Library Director shall designate content managers who will organize, post and review content - [Record Retention Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/record-retention-policy/) - According to the National Council of Nonprofit Associations, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act sets standards for document destruction for businesses. While libraries are non-profit organizations, following appropriate record retention and destruction schedules are just as important. The Director of the Topsham Public Library will serve as the library’s records management and access officer and will be responsible - [Partnership and Sponsorship Policy](https://topshamlibrary.org/about-us/policies/partnership-and-sponsorship-policy/) - I. PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to define under what circumstances the Topsham Public Library may enter into partnerships or sponsorship and to provide guidance in the development of those relationships as a means of pooling resources between partners or sponsors that will enhance or improve library services, programs, collections and/or facilities. II. ## Calendars - [TPL Programs](https://topshamlibrary.org/calendar/tpl-programs/) - [event-title] [start-date] • [start-time] - [end-time] • [end-date] [if-description] [description] [/if-description] - [Kids Calendar](https://topshamlibrary.org/calendar/kids-calendar/) - [start-date] • [start-time] - [end-time] • [end-date] [event-title] [if-description] [description] [/if-description] - [Adults Calendar](https://topshamlibrary.org/calendar/adults-calendar/) - [start-date] • [start-time] - [end-time] • [end-date] [event-title] [if-description] [description] [/if-description] - [TPL Programs Events Page (month)](https://topshamlibrary.org/calendar/tpl-programs-events-page-month/) - [start-date] • [start-time] - [end-time] • [end-date] [event-title] [if-description] [description] [/if-description] - [Teens Calendar](https://topshamlibrary.org/calendar/teens-calendar/) - [start-date] • [start-time] - [end-time] • [end-date] [event-title] [if-description] [description] [/if-description] ## Bookshelves - [Adult New Books](https://topshamlibrary.org/bookshelves/adult-new-books/) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Bestseller Lists](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/bestseller-lists/) - [Staff Picks](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/staff-picks/) - [Patron Review](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/patron-review/) - [TPL Programs](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/tpl-programs/) - [Information](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/information/) - [Banned Books](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/banned-books/) - [Special Events](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/special-events/) - [In the News](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/in-the-news/) - [Topsham Tales](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/topsham-tales/) - [News](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/news/) - [TPL Gardens](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/tpl-gardens/) - [Crafts](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/crafts/) - [Maine Get Outdoors Weekend](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/maine-get-outdoors-weekend/) - [Garden Programs](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/garden-programs/) - [Growing the Community](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/growing-the-community/) - [Library Gardens](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/library-gardens/) - [Placemaking](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/placemaking/) - [Update](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/update/) - [Something to do](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/something-to-do/) - [Rare Reads](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/rare-reads/) - [Programs](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/programs/) - [Collaboration](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/collaboration/) - [The Pantry](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/the-pantry/) - [Neat Nature](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/neat-nature/) - [Leaves and Reads](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/leaves-and-reads/) - [Word of the Month](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/word-of-the-month/) - [Libraries Build Business](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/libraries-build-business/) - [Genres](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/information/genres/) - [Library News](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/library-news/) - [Author Talks](https://topshamlibrary.org/category/author-talks/) ## Tags - [Bestsellers](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/bestsellers/) - [Fiction](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/fiction/) - [July](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/july/) - [List](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/list/) - [New York Times](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/new-york-times/) - [Nonfiction](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/nonfiction/) - [Fantasy](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/fantasy/) - [Horror](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/horror/) - [Mystery](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/mystery/) - [Reads](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/reads/) - [Short Stories](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/short-stories/) - [Staff Picks](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/staff-picks/) - [TPL Staff](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/tpl-staff/) - [books](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/books/) - [lists](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/lists/) - [literature](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/literature/) - [Denise Mina](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/denise-mina/) - [Exile](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/exile/) - [Garnethill Trilogy](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/garnethill-trilogy/) - [Patron](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/patron/) - [review](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/review/) - [Friends of Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/friends-of-topsham-public-library/) - [Murder Mystery Dinner](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/murder-mystery-dinner/) - [Programs](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/programs/) - [Summer Reading Program](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/summer-reading-program/) - [Topsham Public Library](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/topsham-public-library/) - [aarp](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/aarp/) - [aging](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/aging/) - [benefits](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/benefits/) - [meals on wheels](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/meals-on-wheels/) - [medicare](https://topshamlibrary.org/tag/medicare/) - 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