Friends of the Library Announce Event Lineup, Seek Volunteers and Photos

Got a great photo of Tewksbury to share, a fun raffle basket idea or experience managing a 5K?

The Friends of the Tewksbury Public Library met Wednesday night and shared updates on upcoming fundraisers.

The Friends cover about $30,000 in programming annually that’s not covered by the town, so they’re always seeking fun ways to raise funds and volunteers to help execute. They meet the first Wednesday of every month, and interested residents can find more information at their website.

Note that for next month, the meeting is moved to May 17 to avoid conflicting with Town Meeting.

In her report, Library Director Diane Giarrusso shared that programs for residents in their 20s and 30s have been successful. The next event for this demographic will be Saturday, April 22, in the morning for a drop-in Brunch & Board Games meetup.

Board of Library Trustees representative Sue Pedersen thanked outgoing members Lori Carriere and Patrick Joyce and welcomed newly elected members Cathy Dwyer and Jessica Rauseo.

The recent ‘breakfast for dinner’ dine-out at Vic’s Waffle House was a success, and the Friends wish to thank the Seto family for hosting.

Photographers are invited to submit images for the Friends 2024 calendar fundraiser. You can see current submissions on the FoTPL Instagram; the goal is to have calendars for sale at the Garden Club plant sale and basket raffle in May. While the timing seems early, the design and printing must be done before Shawsheen Tech closes for summer break.

There are some ground rules: No people, and photos should be horizontal. If you wish to submit an original image, please send it by email to the Friends at friendstplibrary@gmail.com by Friday, April 22. Note where the picture was taken, by whom, and include permission for the Friends to publish the photo.

Upcoming Events:

Friends Annual Board Meeting
When: Saturday, April 15, 10 a.m. – noon
Where: Library large meeting room

All residents are welcome to drop in and learn about what the Friends do to support the Library. There will be information on events and volunteer opportunities for adults and teens in need of hours. If you’re not a member, you’re welcome to join today.

Book Donation/Puzzle Swap
When: Saturday, April 29, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: Library large meeting room

Please put puzzle pieces in a zip-lock bag and tape the box shut. You may swap puzzles one-for-one, and puzzles will also be available for purchase, with prices based on number of pieces. You can also drop off gently used, current books appropriate for reselling on the honor carts inside the library. All profits from the honor carts and puzzle sales help the Friends fund the library’s community events for adults, teens and children.

Wine Tasting
When: Thursday, May 4, 6 p.m.
Where: Oakdale Liquors

Oakdale will host a tasting of gourmet wines on May 4. Tickets will be $20 at the door and or $15 in advance (purchase here) and will include a door prize entry.

Monthly Meeting
When: Wednesday, May 17, 7 p.m.
Where: Library

The Friends get together monthly and invite all members and interested residents to attend.

Plant Sale & Gift Basket Raffle with Garden Club
When: Saturday, May 20, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Library

The Friends will take part in a gift basket raffle in conjunction with the annual Tewksbury Garden Club Plant Sale. The Friends are looking for individuals or groups to donate gift baskets valued at $50 or more; if you can help, there is a Signup Genius. Please note your theme, and that inclusions of wine or other alcohol is permitted.

Future events:

A 5K family fun run/walk is being planned for October; the Friends could use help from residents with experience managing a 5K. If you would like to join the committee, contact the Friends by email or drop by the next meeting, which will likely move to Wednesday, May 17 because Town Meeting is May 3.

A comedy night will be held at the Elks, also in October. Admission will be $25, and tables will be available. Attendees can bring in their own food.

An Evening with a Medium is planned for later in the fall. Residents may remember a previous successful event with medium Laura Lee that was held before the pandemic.

The Friends are also seeking opportunities for dine-outs and new business sponsors, and they ask residents to please patronize and thank the businesses that support the Library.