(L-R) Bill Crosby, Jack Wheeler and Dave Longley of Crosby Design work on a welcoming ceremonial archway ahead of the Concord Free Public Library’s celebration of its 150th anniversary. A series of special events will lead up to an anniversary party on October 1 that will feature a reenactment of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s original library dedication speech, a parade and more. Photo by Celeste Katz Marston

Concord Free Public Library Corner 

September 21, 2023

The 150th anniversary of the Concord Free Public Library is approaching fast! Join us on Sunday, October 1 from 2-4 p.m. for a party and parade celebrating this historic day. Local and state officials will speak on the steps of the Town House at 2 p.m., followed by a reenactment of Ralph Waldon Emerson’s original dedication speech on October 1, 1873. The Concord-Carlisle Regional High School Pep Band will lead a parade from the Town House to the Main Library’s front lawn, and the celebration will continue with music, cake, and activities for all ages! There is no registration required for this event. 

There are a number of other upcoming events celebrating the Library’s anniversary; for a full list of 150th programs, visit cfpl150.org. 

All Ages 

“Virtual Writing Workshop,” Thursdays through October 12 at 6:30 p.m. 

Library Writer-In-Residence and author George Jreije invites writers of all ages and all experiences to join him for virtual writing sessions each Thursday through October 12. Participants can spend the time working on their own writing, asking questions, and engaging in friendly conversation. Attendance is not required for all sessions, but registration is required for each date you wish to attend. Virtual. 

“Family Bike Rodeo,” Saturday, September 30 at 3 p.m. 

As part of Climate Prep Week, pedal on over to the Harvey Wheeler Lot across from Fowler. We’ll have bike safety courses and tips, bike checks, bike decorating, and more; don’t forget your helmets! 

Adults 

“What’s the Rush? The Solution to the Biodiversity Crisis,” Wednesday, September 27 at 6:30 p.m. 

Join us during Climate Prep Week to view the video “What’s the Rush?” and find out what you can do in your own yard to regenerate biodiversity. The video will be followed by a chat with panelists who are taking steps to shrink lawns, remove invasive species, add native plants, and more. Main Library. 

 Teens 

“Girls Who Code Information Session,” Wednesday, September 27 at 5 p.m. 

We invite girls and their families to learn about the Girls Who Code program with GWC facilitators. Over the course of the academic year, GWC members learn a variety of coding skills and work together to produce a project that addresses a real-world problem. The facilitators have a range of coding skills, and they encourage members to develop their abilities and confidence. Grades 5-8. 

“Navigating College Admissions Successfully,” Wednesday, September 27 at 7 p.m. 

Learn about current college admissions trends, the importance of visiting colleges to find schools that can be a good fit and reducing stress around the college admissions process. For high schoolers and their parents. Virtual. 

Children 

“Adopt a Reading Pal Session 1: Adoption Ceremony,” Monday, October 2 at 4:15 p.m. 
Register to adopt a reading pal and begin your “Adopt a Reading Pal” journey. During session 1, meet your reading pal, collect your adoption papers, and receive your dog care diary! Each week will be a new adventure, including meeting a veterinarian and face painting. For grades K-5. Main Library. 

Registration required unless otherwise noted. For more information and to register, visit concordlibrary.org.