Around Town

Watertown Library Part of Harvard Study of Libraries as Center for Family Engagement

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When Harvard University researchers wanted a good example of a public library that fosters family engagement, it looked to the Watertown Free Public Library. 

The town’s library was one studied for the Harvard Family Research Project’s paper, Public Libraries: A Vital Space for Family Engagement by M. Elena Lopez, Margaret Caspe and Lorette McWilliams. The study looks at ways that libraries can promote family engagement which in turn promotes learning for children. For the study, Harvard partnered with the Public Library Association (PLA). They surveyed library directors around the country about their family engagement practices, met monthly with a learning community of nearly 20 librarians interested in family engagement, according to the paper. Watertown Library Director Leone Cole told the Town Council recently that she and her staff were pleased to contribute to Harvard Family Research Project’s study.

Around Town

Registration Open for Watertown Library’s Book it and Run 5K

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The Watertown Free Public Library is pleased to announce the Third Annual Book it and Run 5K! On Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016 the neighborhood surrounding the library becomes our race course. This fun, family friendly event promotes healthy habits and community fitness. Monies raised from the event benefit the WFPL Building Committee.

Around Town

Library Has Tons of Fun This Summer, Including Sports, Reading and a 5K

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The Watertown Free Public Library is full of fun activities this summer. Here are just a few of the activities:

Summer Sports Sampler

Saturdays starting July 16

The Watertown Free Public Library presents a series of free opportunities to be active this summer! Click on the links below to learn more and register. You may also choose to register at the Reference desk or by calling 617-972-6436. Martial Arts at MacDonald Martial Arts

Rock Climbing at Central Rock Gym

Kayaking at Charles River Canoe and Kayak

Pure Barre at Pure Barre Newton

Yoga at Artemis Yoga

Book it and Run 5K! Saturday Sept.

Around Town

Watertown Library Seeks Artists to Submit Work to Show in Gallery Space

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The Watertown Free Public Library is accepting applications from artists and groups who would like to exhibit in the library’s gallery space. 

The space is located on the second floor of the building and includes hanging displays and a glass case. Shows last for one month. There are no fees. The library does not take commission on works sold. Receptions can be held in the adjacent room.

Entertainment

One Book One Watertown Underway, Still Plenty of Events About “The Race Underground”

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The Watertown Free Public Library’s annual One Book One Watertown program kicked off with a community discussion of the book “The Race Underground: Boston, New York, and the Incredible Rivalry that Built America’s First Subway” by Doug Most on Wednesday, but there are many events still to come. The Watertown Library sent out the following information:

This March, the Watertown community is invited to a series of events relating to this year’s selection, culminating in a visit from author Doug Most. Documentary Marathon

Saturday March 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

We’ll be screening films about the history of mass transit on our big screen all day long. Stop in for a quick peek, or plan to spend the whole day – the choice is yours. The Road Ahead with MIT SENSEable City Lab

Wednesday March 9 at 7 p.m.

The future is now!

Around Town

Many Activities and Events at the Watertown Library This February

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The Watertown Free Public Library has plenty of activities and events to choose from this month. The Library sent out the following information:

SCOTT SANCHEZ – Winter Concert Series

Saturday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m., Watertown Savings Bank Room

An experienced classical guitarist, Scott Sanchez is recognized by audience members, concert presenters, and reviewers for his unique artistry and solid musicianship. He currently teaches guitar and guitar ensemble at Franklin Pierce University. His eclectic repertoire includes music by Manuel Ponce, Astor Piazzola, Agustin Barrios, Joaquin Turina and Dave Brubeck. Come to the library and join us for another passionate and entertaining guitar performance, courtesy of Scott Sanchez.

Around Town

See the Holiday Recreation Programs, Watertown Library Hours

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Come out and enjoy Watertown’s athletic fields and take part in the Recreation Department’s Winter Vacation program, and see when you can head to the library. 

The Watertown Free Public Library will be open on Dec. 24 from 9 a.m. to noon, and will be closed on Christmas Day. The library will reopen on Saturday and resume normal hours over the weekend (9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday). If you go, check out the library’s new iMacs! The Recreation Department will open Victory Field and the courts at Casey Park during the holidays.

Around Town

Library Announces the 2016 ‘One Book, One Watertown’ Title

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Get ready to read this year’s selection for the annual townwide book event – One Book, One Watertown. 

The Watertown Free Public Library announced the selection for their 2016 “One Book, One Watertown” community read: The Race Underground by Doug Most. The Race Underground “weaves together the egos, political hurdles and other daunting challenges … in a sweeping narrative of late-19th-century intrigue” according to Sam Roberts of the The New York Times. One Book One Watertown programming will take place throughout March 2016, and will include a visit from the author, Doug Most, a program on modern transportation and urban planning with the MIT SENSEable City Lab, an art exhibition in the library’s gallery, a Boston/New York trivia night, films, book discussions, and more. Stay updated via the library’s Facebook page.