Ventress Memorial Library15 Library Plaza
Marshfield, MA 02050
781-834-5535ventresslibrary.org
Ventress Voice · July 2026 · Vol 9.7
A Circle of Friends
Save the Date for this fun program sponsored by the Friends of the Ventress Library!
 
 
A Celebration of Early America
    
Many thanks to the Robert B. Kaplan Trust for sponsoring Seven Times Salt at the Ventress Library in June! The group presented a program of music entitled "From Plimouth to Yorktown," which featured songs from the Colonial period. Attendees were really impressed with the group's energy and skill and joined in singing a few tunes. What a perfect way to celebrate America's 250th birthday!
 
 
Changes at the Library
Starting in July 2026, the library will be unable to continue operating at our previous level of service due to a significantly reduced budget compared to FY26. Though a budget that would fully fund the library was approved at Town Meeting in June, operating funds for that budget will not be available unless or until a town ballot measure is approved. In the interim, the library has been instructed to operate at the budget level supported by existing funds. This reduced budget will result in the following changes:
  • Reduction in hours: closing at 5 pm on Mondays starting 7/6
  • Reduction in materials spending: expect many fewer new books and longer wait times
  • Reduction in programming: fewer outside performers
  • 3D printing will be limited to 125 grams per month
If the budget approved at Town Meeting is unable to be enacted, the library will no longer meet the criteria to be certified by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) to receive state aid, and will need to apply for a waiver. If the waiver is not granted and the library is decertified, Marshfield will no longer be able to participate in interlibrary loan or access OCLN- or state-sponsored digital resources. Marshfield residents will only be able to access items owned by the Ventress Library and would not be able to sign up for cards or borrow from nearby libraries. Access to digital borrowing (e.g., Libby) and research databases would also be reduced or eliminated.
If you have any questions, please contact the Library Director, Cyndee Marcoux at 781-834-5535.
 
 
 
New & Upcoming Titles
Don't know what to read next? Check out these new and soon to be released books. See a cover you like? Click an image to read the synopsis and reserve your copy. We also have NextReads newsletters that you can subscribe to. Find out the latest fiction, nonfiction, and more. Sign up to get our New Books Newsletter delivered to your inbox!
 The Romance Revival by Christina LaurenGetting Away with Murder by Shari LapenaOde to the Half-Broken by Suzanne PalmerMake Nice by Ryan EffgenThe Intrigue by Silvia Moreno-GarciaThe Man by Laura SimsDolly All the Time: A GMA Book Club Pick by Annabel MonaghanThe Shampoo Effect by Jenny JacksonAppalachian Elegy: Poetry and Place by Bell HooksGrowing Up with Addiction: How Adult Children of Addicts Can Heal Family Trauma, C-Ptsd, and Codependency by Tian DaytonOn Courage: How to Be a Dissident in an Age of Fear by Julia AngwinHidden Creatures: Luscious Leeches, Bashful Botflies, and the Wondrous, History-Shaping World of Parasites by Dino MartinsThe Cure at Walden Pond: A Guide to Recovering Our Humanity by Thomas MooreYour Ocd Will Hate This Book: A Proven System to Overcome Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Take Back Your Life by Nathan PetersonAging Out: An Exploration of Caregiving, Community, and How Americans Grow Old by Lucy SchillerFiske Guide to Colleges 2027 by Edward B. Fiske
 
 
 
View all of our upcoming
programs here!
We offer book groups, game meetups, arts & crafts workshops, concerts, and more! Events are free and open to the public. View our Event Calendar for the most up to date information.
 
Featured Adult Programs
Relaxing Poolside in Cancun with Summer Accessories
 
Adult Summer Reading
 
It's finally here! Read your way to prizes this summer between now and August 30th. Here's how it works!
 
-Sign up for summer reading at the reference desk
-Track the books you read and/or activities you do
-Every time you complete 6 books/activities, bring your sheet back to the library and pick out a prize!
-Prizes include a free book to keep from our book cart and an entry to win a brand new Kindle Fire!
 
Movie Projector Graphic

 
Docs and Discussion
 
 The Docs and Discussions program is currently on hiatus due to our early closing on Mondays. 
Trespasses by Louise Kennedy
Contemporary Book Group
Wednesday, July 8th, 7:00 p.m.
 
Monthly meeting of the Contemporary Book Group in the Historical Room. Discussing Trespasses by Louise Kennedy.
 
Set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, a shattering novel about a young woman caught between allegiance to community and a dangerous passion.

Amid daily reports of violence, Cushla lives a quiet life with her mother in a small town near Belfast. By day she teaches at a parochial school; at night she fills in at her family's pub. There she meets Michael Agnew, a barrister who's made a name for himself defending IRA members. Against her better judgment - Michael is not only Protestant but older, and married - Cushla lets herself get drawn in by him and his sophisticated world, and an affair ignites. Then the father of a student is savagely beaten, setting in motion a chain reaction that will threaten everything, and everyone, Cushla most wants to protect.

As tender as it is unflinching, Trespasses is a heart-pounding, heart-rending drama of thwarted love and irreconcilable loyalties, in a place what you come from seems to count more than what you do, or whom you cherish.
Icons Compass Travel Map Adventures Hiking Search Directions
Let's Go Hiking
Wednesday, July 15th, 6:30 p.m.
 
Carolina Hill 
Meet at the gazebo at 165 Eames Way, next to the Eames Way School. This will be a fun little walk through the woods, to the high tees. We will walk part of the Carolina Hill Mountain Bike Race; no walk is complete unless we take the time to visit the highest point in Marshfield. We may find some old foundations as well. 
Rated easy to medium
      
   Explore Marshfield on foot! New to town? Longtime resident? Looking for friends to walk with? Here is your opportunity to explore some of Marshfield’s gems. This series of Free Spring walks is co-sponsored by the Recreation Trails Committee and the Ventress Memorial Library. The walks are designed to allow residents the opportunity to explore trails which are located in Marshfield. With over 25 trails in town, there is probably one located not far from where you live. Our community walks are led by RTC members and a variety of guest presenters.
        The walks are limited to 12 participants, age 10 and older. Students age 10-17 are welcome with an adult. Participants will learn about the history of the property and will share their knowledge with others. 
 
  Registration is required. Space is limited and a wait list will be created once a walk is at capacity. Questions? Reach out to Ned Bangs, Chair of the Recreation Trails Committee via email at nbangs@townofmarshfield.org
Abundance by Ezra Klein
Nonfiction Book Group
Wednesday, July 15th, 6:30 p.m.

Nonfiction enthusiasts are welcome to join us in-person from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Library Plaza Program Room for a lively book discussion. Copies of each month's selection are available to borrow at the circulation starting the day of the previous book club. New members are always welcome! This month: Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson
 
From bestselling authors and journalistic titans Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, Abundance is a once-in-a-generation, paradigm-shifting call to rethink big, entrenched problems that seem mired in systemic from climate change to housing, education to healthcare.
 
Abundance explains that our problems today are not the results of yesteryear’s villains. Rather, one generation’s solutions have become the next generation’s problems. Rules and regulations designed to solve the environmental problems of the 1970s often prevent urban density and green energy projects that would help solve the environmental problems of the 2020s. Laws meant to ensure that government considers the consequences of its actions in matters of education and healthcare have made it too difficult for government to act consequentially. In the last few decades, our capacity to see problems has sharpened while our ability to solve them has diminished.
Diamond Art Bookmark
Saturday, July 18th, 1-3 p.m.

Create your own fancy bookmark! Get out of the heat and enjoy a quiet afternoon of crafting your own bedazzled corner bookmark. Registration required.
Senior Woman Using Tablet in Library
iPhone and iPad Accessibility
Wednesday, July 22nd, 6-7:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 23rd, 11-12:30 a.m.
 
Did you know that your phone has built in features that can help you navigate the world around you? Apple devices have magnifiers, live captioning, visual alerts, and more. Learn more about how iPhones and iPads can help people with vision or hearing disabilities. Bring your own device -- we will help you find all the tools on your own phone or iPad. Registration required.
One Up Games Mini Golf
Wednesday, July 22nd, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

One Up Games is coming to the library to set up a 9-hole mini golf course for you, your friends and your family. This is an all ages event, all participants must be registered. Children must attend with their caregiver. Sign up for a 15 minute time slot, and make sure to register each person who will be golfing.
Featured Kids Programs
Icons - Squirrel in Book Fort - Pink
Summer Reading
June 24th-August 28th
 
Come learn all about our FREE Summer Reading program - this year's theme is again Welcome To Your Library! Learn about all the fun things we offer here at the library and choose your FREE book when you sign up that you get to keep! Continue reading all summer long to earn more FREE books! 
Our Summer Reading program is for children up to age twelve. Registration is available from June 24th to August 28th. This program has been generously funded in part by Goodwill Hunters.
Summer Reading registration is ONLY available in person, there is no online option.
Our Summer Reading program is possible thanks to the generosity of Goodwill Hunters
 
Storytime
Mondays at 9:30 and 11
 
Join us in the Children's Program Room for stories, songs and socialization. Toddlers at 9:30 a.m. (13 months - 2 years), Preschoolers at 11:00 a.m. (3-5 years).
 
 
Flying High Dogs
Wednesday, July 8th, 10 a.m.
 
High Flying, Dynamic & Thrilling ! Mike and his 4 flying high frisbee dogs are the #1 dog entertainment act in the world! This program will be held off site at the Winslow House. This is not a drop off event.
 
Registration is required. Absolutely no dogs allowed, per the performer's request and for safety reasons, if you bring a dog with you, you will be turned away.
Read to Rocko
Tuesday, July 14th and 28th, 11 a.m.
 
Join us to welcome our dog friend Rocko and his owner Kim! This program allows each child and their caregivers to have a one-on-one session with Rocko! Children can pick a favorite book from home or the children's room.
 
In person registration for everyone attending is required. Spots will be filled on a per child basis.
 
Rolie Polie Guacamole
Wednesday, July 15th, 10 a.m.
 
Rolie Polie Guacamole has developed a smart, parent-friendly musical style that dresses up original tunes and classic covers with vibrant harmonies and deft instrumental layers, plugging in a sizzling electric current of rhythm that lights up lyrics humming with relevance and humor.
 
This event is best for children ages 2-8 and their caregiver. This is not a drop off event. Registration is required. 
 
One Up Games Mini Golf
Wednesday, July 22nd, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

One Up Games is coming to the library to set up a 9-hole mini golf course for you, your friends and your family. This is an all ages event, all participants must be registered. Children must attend with their caregiver. Sign up for a 15 minute time slot, and make sure to register each person who will be golfing.
 
Young Writer's Program Registration
Wednesday, July 22nd, 9 a.m.
 
This year's Summer Young Writers Program is a 4 WEEK program for aspiring writers entering grades 4-6. Children will work with published author Erin Petti to learn about and create their own books.
 
Registration is mandatory! Registration opens Wednesday, July 22nd at 9 AM.
 
Registrations are through the website calendar ONLY. We are unable to accept phone calls or emails for registration. 
 

 
Big Ryan
Wednesday, July 29th, 10 a.m.
 
You don't want to miss Big Ryan! For over 20 years Big Ryan has been sharing original stories, puppet play and music movement. We are happy to welcome him here to Ventress to entertain and delight! This event is best for children in pre-school - 5th grade.
 
Registration is required. This is not a drop off event. 
 
New Releases
 
In a reading slump? The Teen Zone just might have the cure. Stop in to check out our collection of new titles! We have lots of new Manga books coming in this month! Be sure to stop by to see our latest additions.
 
Teen Events
The Teen Zone and teen programs are open to folks ages 12-18. The Wave Makerspace is open to anyone by appointment - sign up for a Wave Makerspace appointment!
 

 
Summer Reading!
 
Summer Reading has officially begun! This year we will be doing raffle prizes, stop into the teen room to submit your sign up form and grab a summer reading sheet. Every activity/ book read means you get one raffle ticket and a chance to win one of our prizes! Questions? Come talk to the Teen Librarian to learn more. 
 
Role Playing Game Meetup
Thursday, July 2nd, 16th, and 30th, 5-6 p.m.
 
Have you ever wanted to try a role-playing game? Maybe you've painted some really cool figures in our Miniature Club and you want to give them a try on the table?
Come check out the Teen RPG meetup! It's always a great time to join - this campaign is easy for players to drop in at any point.
 
Our adventure is set in the wonderfully weird world of Dolmenwood, a setting inspired by the fairy tales and eerie folklore of the British Isles.
For grades 6-12. Registration appreciated, max of 5 players per session. 
 
 
Sparks in the Night: The Secret World of Fireflies
Tuesday, July 7th, 6-7 p.m.
 

Everything about fireflies hearkens back to a time long past. Imagine living on Earth 75-130 million years ago.  There are no cars, no city lights, no porch lights, no stadium lights. But, it isn’t pitch black, because the stars fill the sky. It will still be millions of years before humans create the first artificial light sources to change all of this.

Their elaborate light displays are not intended for our eyes. Instead, they depict a daring dance between species. Each firefly species possesses its own distinct type of “language” used to communicate with members of its own species. If you can decode these patterns, you can figure out which species you’re looking at! There are an estimated 170 species in North America.
But, increasingly fewer people report seeing fireflies today. Why is that? Are fireflies really disappearing? What challenges are they facing today?
Join us as we try to decipher the ancient world of fireflies!
 
Grade 6-12 only.
Teen Miniatures Club
Thursday, July 9th and 23rd, 5:00 p.m.
 
Have you seen people playing tabletop RPGs or other games with figurines or terrain? Have you ever thought that it might be fun to do that but you just don't know how to get started?
 
Are you between the ages of 12-18?
Come check out the Teen Miniature Club! We'll be building, painting, and even playing games with miniatures.
 
No experience or supplies necessary; all skill- and experience-levels welcome, even absolute beginners.
In the fields outside of the Hogs Head Inn, the teams of the MÖRK BOLL league come together to play in the world’s bloodiest and most beautiful sport.
Many come for the fame, the bloodshed, the gold on offer and so much more! MÖRK BOLL is a sport of wit, cunning, brutality, and blood, played by those mad, desperate, or hungry enough. Let the games begin! 
 
If you have any questions, feel free to email Tom, the Reference Assistant at twhite@marshfield.ocln.org.
Anime Club
Saturdays, July 11th, and 25th, 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just beginning your anime adventure, come hang out with fellow anime and manga fans! We'll watch anime, chat about current reads, and eat snacks!


 
BYOB Club
Monday, July 13th, 4-5 PM
 
Reading something interesting and want to talk about it? Looking for book recommendations? Just want to have some snacks and read in peace? The Bring Your Own Book Club at the Ventress Memorial Library is the perfect place to relax, chat, and get some reading in. Join us for the full time or just for a bit! Grades 6-12 only.
International Snacks
Wednesday, July 15th, 1-2 p.m
 
Looking to try something you might not have had before? Consider coming to Teen Zone's international snack taste test. Try a variety of different snacks and rank your favorites. 
 
Grade 6-12 only.
Collage Night
Tuesday, July 21st, 3-4 p.m.
 
The library will provide a variety of materials for you to create a wonderful collage! Snacks and drinks will be provided.
Grades 6-12 only.
 
Art Break
Wednesday, July 22th, 5-6 p.m.
 
The next installment in the new collaborative art series between the Ventress Memorial Library and the North Rivers Arts society, Art Break! This program, sponsored by the Friends of the Ventress Memorial Library, will run once a month in 2026. Each class will feature a project aimed at teaching new skills, or learning about different forms of art and art centric careers! This month we will learn about creative, visible mending.
 
For grades 6-12 only.
Registration Required. 
Are We Alone in the Universe?
Saturday, July 25th, 3-4 p.m.
 
 
What if aliens aren’t little green people - but something way stranger? Come join Pat Monteith, a NASA Solar System Ambassador, as she gives us a presentation on the  "what ifs?" in the universe.
Grades 6-12 only
Registration Appreciated
 
Teen Advisory Board
Tuesday July 28th, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
 
The Ventress Memorial Library Teen Zone will be having monthly Teen Advisory Board (TAB) meetings. The advisory board will help plan and implement programs and help shape the future direction of Teen Services at the Library. Attendance at these meetings can be counted towards volunteer hours, but to do so, make sure to fill out our volunteer form!
For grades 6-12 only. 
Registration appreciated.
Henna at the Library
Friday, July 31st, 2-4 p.m.
 
Mandy Roberg from Wicked Good Henna will be joining the Library to receive a henna design from this ICNHA certified artist!
Grades 6-12 only.
Registration is required.