The Friends invite you to stop by the library to check out our new tote bags. Adult totes come in forest green or royal blue with cream lettering handles. Each tote bag is made of sturdy 100 percent cotton duck and measures 18” by 12” with a 6” gusset for added capacity. Thick, webbing handles are long enough to carry the tote comfortably on your shoulder. The adult bag also features a 4” by 4” inside pocket with Velcroâ closure, a perfect place to store your library card, car keys, change or other small items. A sketch of the newly renovated library adorns the front of the tote. The cost of the adult tote is $12, with a $1 discount for Friends’ members.

“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

            A library is much more than a building that houses an assortment of books, music, and movies and provides free Internet access. In addition to meeting the literary needs of its users, an active library sponsors author appearances, guest speakers, children’s events, summer reading programs, art shows, concerts, film series, book clubs, writing groups, educational seminars, creative workshops, and a host of other activities.  

To accomplish all these goals, the library needs a friend, literally. Whether you are new to town, a long-time resident, fresh out of college, approaching the Golden Years, male, female, spend your time at home, in an office, factory, classroom or on the road, your ideas, energy and enthusiasm are needed to help continue to “Make our treasure shine.”

The Friends of the Charlton Library invites you to join us at one of our monthly meetings. New ideas, suggestions and energy are always welcome.

Together we can optimize our newly renovated library and raise awareness of the vital role it plays in the community. After all, that’s what friends are for.

 Did you know…?

            The Charlton Friends of the Library sponsors an Open Book Café. The next time you stop by the library to pick up the latest bestseller or scan the local newspaper, why not enjoy a hot beverage at the same time? The newest addition to the library, the Open Book Café features a wide selection of coffees, teas and hot chocolate sure to chase away the autumn chill. 

Flavors vary with the seasons but might include Breakfast Blend, Swiss Chocolate Almond, French Vanilla, Hazelnut, Irish Crème, Butter Toffee, Raspberry Rhapsody, and Newman’s Special decaffeinated blend. For a taste of fall, try Pumpkin Spice, the current seasonal favorite. For those looking for extra zip in their coffee, the library features Jet Fuel, sure to crank up your energy level.

Tea drinkers don’t despair. The library offers English Breakfast, Lemon Zinger, Chai and decaffeinated Earl Gray Black. And, of course, the ever-popular hot chocolate makes a nice alternative. All beverages cost $1.00 and proceeds go to the Friends of the Charlton Library. See the circulation desk for the complete selection of available flavors, cups, and lids.

Enjoy your drink at a cozy table in the Open Book Café, located just outside the used book room on the main level, downstairs outside the Children’s Room, or in one of the many comfortable chairs sprinkled throughout the library.

Gift Ideas

            For gift-giving ideas at any time of the year, check out the array of items sure to please everyone on your list. Choose from town magnets, afghans, canvas tote bags, and coming soon, covered travel mugs. All proceeds benefit the Charlton Friends of the Library.

Programs

            The Friends are currently planning events and programs for the coming months. Would you like to hear your favorite local author read from his book? Is your child interested in seeing a puppet show? How about game night for the entire family?  Are you interested in learning more about publishing or the writing process?

Let us know what your interests are. We welcome your ideas and suggestions.