Author: Sawyer Free Library

Grab a Spoon and Enjoy a Delicious Collaboration in celebration of Earth Month!

~ Sawyer Free Library

Grab a spoon and satisfy your sweet tooth. In case you haven’t seen, the Sawyer Free Library has partnered with Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe to make Cocoa Berry Chip, a raspberry-infused chocolate ice cream loaded with chocolate chips! Award winning Holy Cow Ice Cream created a new flavor celebrating Earth Month in partnership with the Sawyer Free Library and Cape Ann Climate Coalition.

This delicious special chocolate and raspberry-flavored all-natural ice cream treat embodies the organizations’ commitment to environmental advocacy and the understanding that every day is earth day. A portion of sales of this limited time special flavor will support the Cape Ann Climate Coalition’s educational programs. This delicious ice cream be available in pints only at the Gloucester and Peabody locations, so get some while you can!

For more information visit, SawyerFreeLibrary.org


Sawyer Free Library to present the author of “The Unlocked Path” Janis Robinson Daly

~ Sawyer Free Library

Author Talk: Thursday, April 11, at 5:30 pm at 21 Main Street

The Sawyer Free Library will welcome Massachusetts author Janis Robinson Daly on Thursday, April 11, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm to discuss her debut novel, The Unlocked Path, which embraces the “New Woman” of the early 20th century. The event will be at the Sawyer Free Library at 21 Main Street in downtown Gloucester. Registration is not required. 

This fictional testament of a doctor’s life at the turn of the 20th century, “The Unlocked Path,” introduces us to educated, career-minded, independent Eliza Edwards. In 1897, in Philadelphia, after witnessing her aunt’s suicide, Eliza rejects her mother’s wishes for a society debut. At a time when five percent of doctors are female, she enters a women’s medical college. With the support of a circle of women and driven by a determination to conquer curriculum demands, battle sexism, and overcome doubts, Eliza charts her new life path. Combining science and sympathy, she triumphs to heal others and herself. 

Janis Robinson Daly grew up outside of Boston and remained in Massachusetts, graduating with a B.A. in Psychology from Wheaton College, at the time, an all-women’s college. At Wheaton, she developed a fond appreciation of the supportive relationships established between students, faculty, and alumnae and a heightened awareness of female-centric issues. Both directed the author’s writing of “The Unlocked Path”

Registration is not required.  All are invited to attend. For additional information visit, sawyerfreelibrary.org or 978-325-5500.

SAWYER FREE LIBRARY TO PRESENT “GLOUCESTER ZINE FEST”

~ Sawyer Free Library

Saturday, April 27th from 11:00am to 3:00pm: Cape Ann’s first-ever festival dedicated to self-published works is free to all

The SAWYER FREE LIBRARY is excited to announce the inaugural GLOUCESTER ZINE FEST, taking place on Saturday, April 27, from 11 am to 3 pm at both 20 and 21 Main Street in Gloucester, MA. The festival, in celebration of the Library’s new zine collection, zine-making, and zine culture, promises a day filled with artistic expression, community engagement, and fun for all ages. It is free and open to everyone to attend and enjoy with free giveaways for the first 200 attendees. 

Short for fanzine or magazine, zines are small-batch, hand-made publications that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and formats. As DIY self-published works, they are a medium for self-expression that is generally not represented in mainstream culture.

Gloucester Zine Fest attendees can look forward to a vibrant and engaging lineup of hands-on activities and workshops for all ages, including inspiring speakers and live music, with the highlight being the Zine Marketplace at 20 Main Street. Here is where zinester-vendors will be trading and selling their work, serving as a great opportunity for people to meet the artists and learn what zines are all about. Participants of all ages can also unleash their creativity by crafting their own zine with local community partners Cape Ann Art Haven and Cape Ann Museum and enjoy aperformance by the Gloucester Student Band. And what’s a festival without some delicious treats? Attendees can indulge in some Holy Cow Ice Cream while immersing themselves in the world of zines.

The Sawyer Free Library’s mission is to cultivate connections across our community, power imaginations, inspire learning and provide a free, welcoming space for all. Zine-making provides the opportunity to nourish creativity and discover perspectives from diverse voices. Zines are often a platform for people in marginalized or less-empowered communities to share their knowledge and experiences. 

The Sawyer Free has been diligently curating a collection of zines that are now available for checkout. This collection aims to provide access to a wide range of zines, showcasing a variety of styles and perspectives. Additionally, the Library welcomes zine donations from people who wish to contribute to this growing collection.  

To learn more about Gloucester Zine Fest, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or call 978-325-5500.

What: Gloucester Zine Fest

When: Saturday, April 27, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Where: Sawyer Free Library at 21 Main Street and Event Space at 20 Main Street, Gloucester, MA

http://www.SawyerFreeLibrary.org

Fun at Sawyer Free: Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals

~ Sawyer Free Library

SATURDAY, APRIL 13 from 11:00 AM—12:00 PM at the Sawyer Free Library at 21 Main Gloucester

The Sawyer Free Library is so excited to be hosting “Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals” event on Saturday. April 13 from 11am to 12 noon. Bring your stuffed animal friends to this fun event and join us as we learn about taking care of animals with the creators of the children’s book “Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals.” Jennifer Welborn & Rozillia Mh will read their book and show us how to give our stuffies a check up with a mini veterinarian kit. Attendees will learn about caring for animals with this author and illustrator team while having some hands-on fun! Each young participant will receive a mini vet kit and diagnostic treatment sheet to bring home. In addition, signed copies of the book will be available for purchase. Registration is required at sawyerfreelibrary.org.

If you have questions please visit, sawyerfreelibrary.org or call 978-325-5500.

This event has been made possible by the Constance T. Rhinelander Fund.

Sawyer Free Library Named Finalist for 2024 IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service  

~ Sawyer Free Library

The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced today that the Gloucester Lyceum and Sawyer Free Library is among 30 finalists for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The Sawyer Free Library is one of four institutions in Massachusetts to be selected as a finalist for this award.

The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. For 30 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.

“To be a finalist for a National Medal for Museum and Library Service is an outstanding honor for the Sawyer Free Library and the people of Gloucester. It is a testament to our community that, as we face the unprecedented and daunting challenges of our time, the Sawyer Free Library is trusted as a leading institution to address our community’s needs,” said Library Director Jenny Benedict. “This recognition strengthens our resolve to champion solutions for our future that cultivate connections across our community, inspire learning and foster belonging. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Seth Moulton for nominating the Sawyer Free Library for this prestigious award, and to Senator Ed Markey for his support.”

“The 30 National Medal finalists from across the United States showcase the tremendous abilities of libraries and museums to serve as trusted, dynamic public spaces that meet the needs of their communities,” said IMLS Acting Director Cyndee Landrum. “The Institute of Museum and Library Services is honored to recognize these outstanding institutions. We congratulate them on their collective effort to respond to community needs, preserve diverse history and culture, and create a sense of belonging for all Americans.”

“The Gloucester community already knows what an important role the Sawyer Free Library plays in all our lives. We need more places where kids and adults alike can take a break from their screens and learn to relish a good book. That’s why I was honored to nominate the library for this prestigious award last year, and now I’m thrilled that it’s been nationally recognized as one of the best libraries in the entire country,” said Congressman Seth Moulton. “Especially as the Sawyer Free Library team works on its expansion, this honor is well-timed and very well-deserved.” 

To celebrate this honor, IMLS is encouraging the Sawyer Free Library’s community members to share stories, memories, pictures, and videos on social media using the hashtags #ShareYourStory and #IMLSmedals, and engage with IMLS on X(formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram. For more information, please visit the IMLS website.

National Medal winners will be announced in late May. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during an in-person National Medals Ceremony in Washington, DC this summer.

To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit the IMLS website.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services 

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About the Gloucester Lyceum and Sawyer Free Library

The Gloucester Lyceum and Sawyer Free Library have served the informational and cultural needs of Gloucester’s residents of all ages for over 175 years. Today, its purpose remains to provide equal access to quality resources and be a place of learning, innovation, and creativity to nurture and strengthen our community. Each year, SFL hosts hundreds of programs and serves thousands of people. All of its programs and exhibitions are free and open to the public. Learn more about all its offerings at sawyerfreelibrary.org.  

The Sawyer Free Library, temporarily located at 21 Main Street and online 24/7, remains committed to providing a dynamic and enriching environment for all and looks forward to officially opening its newly renovated, expanded, and modernized space in the fall of 2025. Designed to achieve LEED Gold Certification and Mass Save Path 1 Net-Zero-Ready Verification, the renovated library will exemplify energy efficiency and renewable practices. For details, visit sawyerfree2025.org.

2025 Sawyer Free Library (architect rendering of Dale Street Avenue view)

EARTH DAY ALL MONTH AT SAWYER FREE

~ Sawyer Free Library

SAWYER FREE LIBRARY PRESENTS EXCITING MONTH-LONG LINEUP OF ACTIVITIES CELEBRATING EARTH DAY 2024

As the global community gears up to commemorate Earth Day 2024, the Sawyer Free Library proudly presents a month-long extravaganza of activities aimed at celebrating and advocating for environmental consciousness.

In celebration of Earth Day 2024, the Sawyer Free Library is excited to unveil a diverse lineup of events and initiatives throughout April. From educational workshops to reading challenges, the Library endeavors to inspire and empower individuals to embrace sustainable living and make meaningful actions in their own lives to protect our environment.

Throughout April, the community is invited to participate in a variety of events designed to promote environmental awareness and stewardship. Highlights of the Earth Day 2024 lineup include:

Sustainability Reading Challenge: In collaboration with TownGreen, the Library invites community members to participate in a Sustainability Reading Challenge. From March to April, individuals are encouraged to read books aligned with the United Nations Sustainability Goals, with the chance to win a $25 Holy Cow gift card. These goals serve as a blueprint for addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.

Plant a Garden: Discover the joys of gardening with the Sawyer Seed Library. Select from a diverse array of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds to cultivate your own garden. By nurturing these plants from seed to harvest, participants contribute to a thriving community of gardeners and expand the Seed Library’s offerings for future generations.

Indulge in “Holy Cow Ice Cream“: Grab a spoon and satisfy your sweet tooth. Award winning Holy Cow Ice Cream created a new ice cream flavor celebrating Earth Month in partnership with the Sawyer Free Library and Cape Ann Climate Coalition. Available throughout April at Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafes across the North Shore, this special chocolate and raspberry-flavored all-natural treat embodies the organizations’ commitment to environmental advocacy and the understanding that every day is earth day. A portion of sales of this limited time special flavor will support the Cape Ann Climate Coalition’s educational programs.

In addition to these exciting initiatives, the Sawyer Free Library will host a series of captivating events, including workshops, educational talks, and family-friendly activities. Highlights include “Start Your Own Kitchen Herb Garden” with Backyard Growers, “Tree Talk” with 400 Trees, “Earth Month Musical Storytime” and a “Recycled Art Workshop” led by a local artist.

All events are free and open to the public, with registration required for certain activities. For more information and to view the full schedule of Earth Day events, please visit sawyerfreelibrary.org.

As the Sawyer Free Library continues its commitment to sustainability, it looks forward to the official opening of its new and modernized space in the fall of 2025. Designed to achieve LEED Gold Certification and Mass Save Path 1 Net-Zero-Ready Verification, the renovated library will exemplify energy efficiency and renewable practices. 

The Sawyer Free Library knows that every action we take individually and collectively toward making our environment resilient and sustainable is a step toward a net zero-impact future. To learn more about or to invest in the 2025 Sawyer Free Library’s sustainability features and programs, please visit sawyerfreelibrary.org/sustainability. 

Girl Power: The Supremes as Cultural Icons at Sawyer Free Library

~ Sawyer Free Library

SATURDAY, MARCH 30 from 3:00 – 4:30 PM at Sawyer Free Library, 21 Main Street

Bringing Women’s History Month to a close, the Sawyer Free Library invites you to Girl Power: The Supremes as Cultural Icons Presentation, with Tom Ingrassia. Tom is a Motown historian, author, radio personality and motivational speaker.

In this lively, entertaining and educational multimedia lecture program, Motown historian Tom Ingrassia (who worked for Mary Wilson, of The Supremes, for 6 years) takes you on a journey back to a turbulent time in American history, when Blacks and Whites were trying to change things…and The Supremes’ music helped to bridge the gaps.

Tom grew up with The Supremes. Don’t misunderstand…Tom wasn’t raised in Detroit’s Brewster Housing Projects. Nor did The Supremes live in tiny Middletown, New York. Their cultural and physical neighborhoods were hundreds of miles and a world apart.

But, in 1964, Diana Ross, Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard—the legendary Supremes—burst into the American musical consciousness just as Tom was becoming aware of the music shimmering from his tiny transistor radio. In no time, we was hooked on the Music of Motown—and that began an obsession that eventually led him to work with some biggest names in music history.

The Supremes owned the 1960s. Today, that statement may be obvious. But…in mid-60s America? The fact that three young African American women from Detroit’s housing projects conquered the world was profound…it was revolutionary. The Supremes were trendsetters, and set the standard against which all future female groups are measured. During the 1960s, only The Beatles and Elvis Presley sold more records than The Supremes. 

Girl Power takes audiences on a remarkable trip back in time—an engaging stroll into pop music history—to an era when the Music of Motown reigned supreme—and three young African American women from the Detroit housing projects conquered the world.

This event is open to all to attend. No registration required. For more information, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or call 978-325-5500.

Women’s History Month at the Sawyer Free: “Witchcraft and Memory in Early New England”

~ Sawyer Free Library

THURSDAY, MARCH 21 from 5:30—6:30 PM at SFL at 21 Main Street

Sawyer Free Library will be hosting Dr. Tricia Peone, Project Director of New England’s Hidden Histories, for a discussion on witchcraft and memory during women’s history month this Thursday, March 21 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Today when we think about witchcraft, we tend to think about the infamous Salem witch trials. But what did it mean to believe in witchcraft in the seventeenth century and how widespread were these beliefs? How did people know if they were bewitched and who was to blame? This talk will explore the stories of several women accused of witchcraft in New England, including in Gloucester, and consider how this history continues to affect us today. Through these stories we can see not only how ideas about witchcraft have changed over time, but also changes in ideas about commemoration, justice, family legacies, and the responsibilities of communities that have been historical sites of violence.

Dr. Tricia Peone previously worked at Historic New England, where she was a research scholar for the Recovering New England’s Voices project. She has also previously worked as the public programs director at New Hampshire Humanities, a university lecturer teaching classes on the Salem witch trials, early New England, and public history, and as a researcher for cultural heritage organizations. Her scholarship focuses on early modern magic and witchcraft and her work on these subjects has appeared in journals, books, blogs, and on radio and television. She holds a PhD in history from the University of New Hampshire with a specialization in the early modern Atlantic world and history of science.

To register to attend or for more information on this special event, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or call 978-325-5500.

Sawyer Free hosting Film Screening of Madan Sara: The Power of Women in Haiti

~ Sawyer Free Library

THURSDAY, MARCH 14 from 5:30—7:00 PM at Sawyer Free Library at 21 Main Street

In honor of Women’s History Month, this Thursday, March 14 at 5:30 pm the Sawyer Free Library will present a film screening of Madan Sara, a film by Etant Dupain, followed by a virtual conversation with Dupain.

The film is in Haitian Creole with English subtitles. The women known as Madan Sara are battling for a more robust and inclusive economy in Haiti. This film tells the story of these women who work at the margins to make Haiti’s economy run. Despite facing hardship and social stigma, their work puts their children through school, houses their families, and helps ensure a better life. This film amplifies the Madan Sara as they share their dreams for a more just Haiti.

Registration is requested but not required. For more information, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or 978-325-5500.

Untold Story of 1960s Women’s Olympic Glory Featured at Sawyer Free Library Author Talk

~ Sawyer Free Library

The Sawyer Free Library is pleased to host local author Aime Alley Card on Thursday, March 7 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. She will be discussing her book The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends from Tennessee State. Joining her in the conversation will be fellow author, Jean Duffy, author of Soccer Grannies: The South African Women Who Inspire the World. 

The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends from Tennessee State chronicles the 1960 Tennessee State University all-Black women’s track team, which found Olympic glory at the 1960 games in Rome. It is an epic story of desire, success, and failure—of beating the odds—against the backdrop of a changing America. 

Published this month to coincide with Women’s History Month in March,  the author, who lives in Wenham, will speak as part of the Sawyer Free Library’s author event series from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at the library, 21 Main Street (upstairs) in Gloucester. There will be books available for to sign. No registration required.

Tigerbelles is a multi-layered inspirational tale of triumph over adversity.  The elite group of talent includes Wilma Rudolph, Barbara Jones, Lucinda Williams, Martha Hudson, Willye B. White, and Shirley Crowder.  These are women who once were and should still be known worldwide.  Ultimately, the team’s drive is for more than medals.  Their coach, Edward Temple, and the Tigerbelles offer a challenge to the world’s perception of what a group of young Black women in the Jim Crow South are capable of.

For the past several years, Aime Alley Card has been researching, interviewing, and writing about the Tennessee State Tigerbelles and those who supported them along their path. She conducted and reviewed hundreds of hours of interviews and read just as many books and articles, ranging from concurrent to retrospective. She is a nonfiction editor for Pangyrus literary magazine and a board member for the Women’s National Book Association, Boston Chapter, and serves on her town’s cultural council supporting educational programs.

Please join us for this special event. For more information visit: sawyerfreelibrary.org or 978-325-5500.