Anne L. Reynolds, beloved former director of the Wellesley Free Library, died on January 20th, 2017 in Portsmouth, NH. Former Head of Technical Services at the library, Anne brought a whole-systems vision to the library: its strengths, its challenges, and its vibrant possibilities. She led the automation of the library catalog and made Wellesley one […]
2016 seemed to be the year of loss. One after another, our favorite musicians, artists, and actors seemed to leave us. Visit our media room audiovisual display to remember and honor those cultural icons. David Bowie’s albums and films, Alan Rickman’s best work, and Prince’s chart-topping music are just some of the materials to be […]
November’s Spiritual Pathways display was a hit with the Wellesley community; perhaps you were one of the many who are looking for a more spiritual connection. This month, visit our second floor display featuring spiritual autobiographies. Learn how others cultivated a more mindful, joyous life, or how many have struggled along their own spiritual journey, […]
A little known sub-genre of cookbooks is the food memoir: the personal experience of a chef (amateur or professional) relative to food. Many food memoirs include recipes, as the author will relate his/her experiences with certain dishes while relaying how you can make them at home. Take a peek at our second floor display featuring […]
We’ve selected some of the most popular Young Adult series to feature this month. Whether you are a young adult, or just love the literature, this second floor display is for all ages! Pick up the first book in these popular series, just in time for the cold winter moths. Hooked? Stop by the Reference […]
Radicalization: Why Some People Choose the Path of Violence by Farhad Khosrokhavar A sought-after commentator in France and a widely respected international scholar of radical Islam, Farhad Khosrokhavar has spent years studying the path towards radicalization. Khosrokhavar argues that the root problem of radicalization is not a particular ideology but rather a set of steps […]
Need something to do during the coming cold months? Visit our second floor display to pick up books on how to knit and crochet! Already an experienced knitter? We’ll also feature resources about new patterns, materials, and technique. Keep your hands busy this winter by learning a new craft!
If you’ve managed to get your hands on a copy of Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance, you’ve been lucky! One of the most popular books of the year, Hillbilly Elegy has landed toward the top of many reputable bestseller lists. Whether you’ve read Hillbilly Elegy and are thirsty for […]
Celebrate National Geographic’s 129th anniversary with our second floor display featuring the Society’s brilliant photographic publications. Helping to protect the planet since 1888, National Geographic has been instrumental in educating the public about the natural world and our place in it.
On display in the high school room is a collection of nonfiction for the New Year! Ring in 2017 by learning something new, from a memoir about escaping North Korea (Every Falling Star by Sungju Lee) to a young man’s hilarious attempt to understand why he is “undateable” (We Should Hang Out Sometime by Josh […]
Did you get a new gadget during the holidays, perhaps a new phone, tablet, or other device? Not quite sure how to use it? Check out our second floor display featuring the best how-to books to help you learn all about your new devices. Whether your gadget is an Apple or an Android, a Kindle […]
This week in new non-fiction, the Wellesley Free Library has a lot to offer. But first . . . let’s explore Chrismakkuh! Chrismakkuh: Everything You Need to Know to Celebrate the Hybrid Holiday by Ron Gompertz A holiday guide for mixed-faith families who celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah presents an entertaining guide to the hybrid holiday […]
Now on display at the Wellesley Free Library: holiday craft ideas for the whole family! Visit the second floor display (by the graphic novels) to pick up craft books to suit your fancy this holiday season. Whether you’re a seasoned craft enthusiast (pun intended), just starting out, or want to learn a new craft, this […]
Love can be difficult sometimes, especially during the holidays. Visit our second floor display featuring the best advice on how to improve your relationships, whether they be romantic or familial. “Love is a battlefield” – Pat Benatar
The Man Booker Prize is an annual accolade awarded to the best original novel written in English and published in the United Kingdom. Stop by our second floor display to select a Man Booker Prize winner to read next! This year’s Man Booker was awarded to Paul Beatty for his bestselling novel The Sellout. Previous Man […]
As the temperature keeps dropping and the snow starts falling, we’ll all be breaking out our long-awaited winter gear! Whether you’re a seasoned winter sports enthusiast or looking to become one, our second floor display will feature all you need to know about winter athletics. Did you know? Yukigassen, invented in Japan, is basically one […]
The Wellesley Free Library has plenty of cookbooks to go around for the holidays, including those on display for holiday cooking and baking. But if that doesn’t suit your fancy, or if you simply want to browse non-holiday cookbooks, see below for some of the newest cookbooks to be added to our collection. Grape, Olive, […]
Starting in January 2017, the Wellesley Free Library will be offering new opportunities to interact with and program our NAO robots, Lava and Sky! Step by Step: Choregraphe – 5 new Choregraphe classes! Robot Dance Contest – For programmers ages 8-13. Robot Lab by Appointment – 45 minute sessions with Lava or Sky. Appointment requests begin […]
On December 7th, 1941 – 75 years ago this year – our nation was wracked by tragedy in the Pacific. After almost 2,500 casualties, the surprise attack on U.S. soil led to America’s participation in World War II. Visit our second floor display for materials exploring the attack, how and why it happened, and its […]
You remember “The Girl Who…” series. You know, first she had a dragon tattoo, then she played with fire, and finally kicked the hornet’s nest. It was a great series, if a tad on the violent side. When I read the books, I knew that the author, Stieg Larrson, was already dead. But, like a […]
Whether you’re looking for a thriller to warm you up on a cold night, a sultry winter romance, or simply a holiday themed read, we’ve got you covered! Visit our second floor display for the best holiday and winter fiction picks. “What in the world would we do without our libraries?” – Katherine Hepburn
Have no fear, our December displays are here! Looking for holiday meal ideas, or not sure how to spice up your holiday baking routine? Take a peek at our second floor displays on Holiday Cooking and Holiday Baking for some great ideas! We have a wonderful collection of cozy recipes to suit everyone’s needs.
Make 2017 your year! Do you always have a New Year’s resolution – or maybe multiple resolutions – that never seems to manifest? Does your determination and drive dwindle around February or March? Not this year! Visit our second floor display to find some resources about how to plan your 2017 New Year’s resolution, set […]
This holiday season, the Wellesley Free Library staff is excited to share with you our favorite books, movies, and TV shows, on display on the second floor. See what we recommend, either as personal reading or potential gifts for family, friends, and loved ones. And remember: you can always stop by the reference desk for […]
The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), a division of the American Library Association, is hosting Computer Science Education week from December 5th through December 11th! The goal is to encourage everyone to learn to code, no matter whooooo you are! At the Wellesley Free Library, learn to program our NAO robots, Lava and Sky, […]
On a non-fiction kick? Check out some new titles at the library, hot off the presses! The Unnatural World: The Race to Remake Civilization in Earth’s Newest Age by David Biello Renowned environmental journalist, Biello brings us a timely guidebook to becoming better stewards of our planet. According to Biello, if humankind can launch a […]
It seems, these days, that there are an overwhelming amount of options available to us at any given moment. From where to eat and which book to read next, to larger decisions like which job to take or city to relocate to, we are inundated with choices. Luckily, trusted experts are here to help! Take […]
We love Massachusetts! Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or are a recent transplant, the Bay State has a place for everyone. Our second floor display features the best of Massachusetts authors, from Elinor Lipman and Ben Coes to Jennifer Haigh and Junot Diaz. Pick out a great read for the holiday season!
Do you like Young Adult novels? How about traveling back in time, revisiting the past, and learning about an historical era? Check out the High School Room to see our favorite Young Adult Historical Fiction books, and see the past through the eyes of a teen, just like you! Some of our favorite titles are: […]
Sometimes it’s tough making it through the holiday season. Stress and expectations are high, patience is low, and your to-do list is growing exponentially. As the holidays loom closer, take some time to visit our Spiritual Pathways display on the second floor for materials about how to live with more gratitude, happiness, and love. Explore […]
Bob Dylan recently made global news after being awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. His career spanning more than five decades, Dylan has penned award-winning music (exploring genres ranging from blues and jazz to rockabilly and folk), six books, and is also an artist and painter. Now, having still remained silent regarding his recent Nobel […]
It’s that time of year again: the holidays are quickly approaching! Is it your turn to host this year? Have no fear! We’ve compiled our best holiday cookbooks, party guides, and idea books just for you. Visit our second floor display for inspiration on how to make this year’s holiday season the best yet. Fun […]
New books come in everyday, and we just got a batch of new non-fiction! Check out some of the titles below: No More Work: Why Full Employment is a Bad Idea by James Livingston It seems that the American Dream may not be entirely realistic anymore. James Livingston explores the role of a “job” in […]
November is upon us and the weather is turning! Stay entertained by visiting our first floor displays: A Cornucopia of Mysteries for fall-themed page-turners [by the Information Desk] and A Cornucopia of Historical Fiction for the best historical films [in the Media Room]. As the thermometers keep dropping, our displays are sure to keep you […]
With the election looming, learn more about the office of the Presidency by visiting our second floor display exploring the history of the office, it’s development, makeup, and importance. Check out items that investigate how the Presidency really works and how it affects all of the American people. And remember: every vote counts! Visit the […]
These days, with relatively easy global travel at our fingertips, we tend to take flight for granted. This month, Aviation History Month, learn how humanity conquered the skies. Explore how the Wright brothers discovered their passion for flight, how Charles Lindbergh found his love for flying, or how Amelia Earhart became the first female pilot. […]
The leaves are changing: fall is among us! New England is notorious for its autumn beauty, so take a local road trip. Head up to our second floor to see our display featuring the best New England travel and road trip guides. We have everything from the best bed and breakfasts to the best haunted […]
Stress and anger getting you down lately? Perhaps the political climate, flu season, and the latest traffic jam are all converging just to tick you off. Maybe a family member is going through a particularly rough time, and you want to reach out. Visit our second floor display featuring the best books about how to […]
Do you love Unbeatable Squirrel Girl?! Illustrator Erica Henderson will be joining Margaret Stohl, co-author of Beautiful Creatures, here at the Wellesley Free Library tomorrow night, October 19th, at 7 PM! Be sure to bring your copies of the books to be signed.
Every year, October reminds us about how important it is to have a breast cancer detection plan, and to encourage ourselves and others to remain aware. One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, and it is the second leading cause of death among women. Although […]
It’s officially October and time to break out the scary movies! To get ready for All Hallows’ Eve, visit our media display in the Media Room on the first floor. Pick up a classic horror film, something to get your heart racing, or simply a movie to get you in the Halloween spirit! Popcorn is […]
Robert J. Hinchliffe is turning 94 this month! As longtime treasurer of the Centennial Fund, Mr. Hinchliffe has been invaluable to the success of the Wellesley Free Library. A veteran of WWII, we have been able to curate such an extensive and wide-reaching military collection in his honor, encompassing anything involving military history: from the […]
Do you love antiquing or collecting? Do you find the pull of old, well-loved items irresistible? Visit our Antiques & Collectibles display on the second floor for materials relating to the craft of collecting, how to become a collector, or simply how to search for that diamond in the ruff. Already have an extensive collection? […]
Created in 1998, Teen Read Week is a Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) initiative to encourage reading and library usage among teens. Teen Read Week is held annually in October, and this year we have a multi-lingual “Read for Fun!” theme designed to highlight all of the library services offered to “22% of the […]
The co-author of the #1 best-selling book Beautiful Creatures and author of the Marvel YA series Black Widow will be visiting the Wellesley Free Library on October 19th at 7:00 PM! Before writing her first novel, Stohl was a veteran of the video-game industry and a cofounder of 7 Studios. She has previously been nominated for Most Innovative […]
The Wellesley Free Library is now on Snapchat! Follow us by searching “wellesleylib.” We’ll be using the Snapchat platform to post live updates about our new NAO robots, library news and events, and anything fun happening at the library. Don’t have a Snapchat? Sign up for our Snapchat class on September 29th to learn how […]
“Это отличная книга!” “這是一個偉大的書!” “Bu harika bir kitap!” “What a great book!” Our robots love to read, but did you know they can speak 19 different languages? They make extensive use of our collection of foreign books to make sure they practice, practice, practice. Do you speak multiple languages? Learn to interact with our robots […]
Bored of sitting inside in front of the fan? Add some adventure to your summer by visiting our film display in the Media Room! Stocked with new and classic action and adventure films, these movies are sure to transport you out of the heat and into your next big adventure. Whether you’re into car chases, […]
Stay cool this summer buy visiting our summer desserts display on the second floor. Take home a book about how to make no-churn ice cream, icy smoothies, or your own ice-cold soda. Perfect for the entire family, this collection of cookbooks is sure to help bring down the temperature and turn up the fun!
It’s a hot one this year! Whether you’re looking for a suspenseful mystery or a steamy romance to get your mind off the heat, we’ve got you covered. Visit our second floor display to check out our hot picks for the summer. Grab a glass of iced tea, turn the fan on high, and settle […]
“Can we come in yet . . . ?” The WFL NAO robots are eager to come in to their new home! As we prepare the library to welcome them, we need your help: they need names! Until September 9 the WFL is holding a naming contest for our two robots. Entry submissions can be […]
The galaxy is attacked by massive, mysterious robots. Fear sweeps the nine planets and anti-robot fervor leads to the destruction of all robots. Any left lingering are hunted by mercenaries. Years later we meet one robot, a boy designed for human companionship, who wakes up innocent and ignorant of a devastated galaxy. Soon he is […]
Did you know the average flight from Logan to Honolulu can range from 10 to 22 hours?! Flying all that way can be daunting and too time-consuming. Luckily, we have everything you need to take a trip to Hawaii from the comforts of your own home! Check out our second floor display to watch a […]
Celebrate your sister – or best friend who might as well be – on August 7th! Our second floor display features some of the best novels and movies about sisters. Watch one of these movies together, or hold your own sister book group for some bonding time. “Back in time it seemed that having a […]
Going on a road trip or visiting a new corner of the country? Check out a travel guide for the top haunts to make your vacation the best experience it can be! Need ideas for your next adventure? Travel books are a great way to explore your interests, see what’s out there, and plan your […]
July 20th Is Space Exploration Day! Want to go to the moon? Take a cruise around Saturn’s rings? Maybe reach the far edge of the universe? Visit our Space Exploration book display on the second floor, and you can! Featuring the best non-fiction books about the history of space travel and our fascination with the […]
Take Your Best Swing! July is National Golf Month and time to enjoy the popular American pastime! Gaining popularity in America via Great Britain in the late 1800s, golf reached its zenith in the U.S. in the Roaring Twenties, with over a thousand golf clubs existing in the country by the early 1930s. While the […]
Can’t travel this summer? Take a culinary journey around the world with colorful cookbooks from foreign cultures and nations. You don’t have to go far this summer to travel with your taste buds!
Take a look at our Media Room film display! So many good movies are based on equally great books. Check out the Media Room display this month to see some of our favorites! We’ll be featuring some of the best box office hits that were actually based on novels. Whether you simply don’t have time […]
Take your summer cookout to the next level! Humans have been cooking our food since shortly after the domestication of fire, around 500,000 years ago. But grilling as we know it stems from the 1940s when camping and hiking was popular. After WWII and the middle-class relocation to suburbia, backyard grilling took off! This summer, […]
The Wellesley Free Library now has jigsaw puzzles! Located in the Media Room, these 1000 piece puzzles are available to check out, and are sure to promise hours of fun. All puzzles are family friendly, so take one home today! Have a puzzle you’ve already completed? We are now accepting puzzle donations to add to […]
New Young Adult Books The Only Thing Worse than Me is You by Lily Anderson Trixie Watson has two very important goals for senior year: to finally save enough to buy the set of Dr. Who figurines at the local comic books store, and to place third in her class and knock Ben West […]
Civil War, Illustrated Edition, by Stuart Moore After the U.S. government passes the Superhero Registration Act, legislation designed to keep superheroes in check, the superheroes of the world find themselves divided. The act requires any person in the United States who possesses superpowers to register with the government. Iron Man leads those who support […]
Many Oscar winning movies are based on critically acclaimed books with similar or unique titles. Come in and browse our collection. The Revenant: A Novel of Revenge by Michael Punke. The film is based on Punke’s 2002 book set in 1823 and based on the story of the real-life trapper and frontiersman Hugh Glass. The […]