Friends of the Jones Library System News

In a new exhibit at the Charles Dickens Museum highlights how, heartbreakingly, 'Nothing in Dickens is out of date.'

"From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" turns 50 today ?

Just in case his books weren't enough to scare the pants off you, here are some amazing visuals to go along with some of his terrifying books. We recommend you scroll through with the nightstand light on and the closet door firmly shut.

it's supposed to be around 90 degrees. In honor of those temps, we have a few poems about summer for you. To start things off right, here's one from Mary Oliver. Just to get you in the mood. Remember sunscreen, Friends.

is giving the current administration nightmares .  And not because of his terrifying literature .

Some authors  get to be in the adaptation  of their chef d'oeuvre.

Sometimes the Friends have been known to verb nouns or, even on occasion, to make up words.  But this one? This one IS a word , Friends.

Using a book to lure kids into a museum. Not a novel idea but a darn good one nonetheless.  The Friends want to go check out the Met .

The author writes, "To stand in the way of these renovations because we fear that the aesthetic might change, even when the state is offering assistance, is to block progress out of sheer vanity." Food for thought as we contemplate the Jones Library renovations. Read the entire piece here .

Not everyone is a natural-born lover of books.  Not all dogs like to swim . It's just how it is.  Here are some tips to help develop a deeper love for reading   in the small people in your world.

Come join us this Thursday  with your littles!

If you have, by chance, heard about some proposed renovations to the Jones Library but, like so many of us, aren't too sure what's going on, look no further. Amherst resident Oliver Broudy manages a local podcast, Let's Be Reasonable . Last week's episode discusses whether Amherst residents should pay $12 million to renovate the Jones. Broudy interviews supporters and opponents on their thoughts. The podcast lasts about 80 minutes but fact-checking begins at about the 60 minute mark. Grab a beer and a bowl of nuts and sit in your comfy chair. Plus? On-site bonus round with Jones Library Director Sharon Sharry. Will Oliver Broudy replace Peter Sagal on "Wait, Wait...Don't Tell Me?" You'll have to listen to the most recent episode of  Let's Be Reasonable and judge for yourself.

You all are the best!  The Friends of the Jones Library System received over  $750 in donations on Valley Gives Day.  Your gifts go a long way.  Thanks, Friends.  Mwah!

Jump in your car, strap in the kids, and head on over!

Help us give every 2nd grader in Amherst and Pelham's schools a book to keep! Help us provide you with museum passes to oodles of museums in the state! Help us fund poetry readings! Help us pay for books and DVDs and CDs! Oh please?

Ages 13-adult • Limited to 10 students • FREE Please register at Whately Public Library or call 413-665-2170 Taught by Jean Potter of Rockpile Bindery Learn the skills to make simple, elegant books without the use of glue or fancy bookbinding equipment. In this two-hour class, participants will master the basics of folding and binding paper into beautiful handmade books, and will leave with two or three finished structures. All materials provided.