Community

Fancy Fun with Robin Preiss Glasser: Illustrator of children’s book series Fancy Nancy

~ Sawyer Free Library

Ooh la la! Get ready for a fabulously fancy afternoon at the Sawyer Free Library!

On Wednesday, October 22, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m., join Robin Preiss Glasser, the bestselling illustrator of the beloved Fancy Nancy books, for a sparkling celebration of creativity, confidence, and charm.

Attendees of all ages are encouraged to dress in their fanciest outfits (costumes welcome—it’s almost Halloween!) and enjoy an afternoon full of glitter and giggles as Robin greets guests with hand-drawn butterflies, shares her inspiring journey from professional ballet dancer to celebrated illustrator, reads one of her favorite stories on the big screen, and teaches everyone the art of “banana walking.” Afterward, stick around for crafts, book signings, and plenty of fancy fun!

This free program is perfect for all ages. Registration is required at sawyerfreelibrary.org 

About the Illustrator: Robin Preiss Glasser
Robin Preiss Glasser wore tiaras and tutus when she danced as a soloist with the Pennsylvania Ballet. Now she happily spends her days in jeans, drawing. She has illustrated many acclaimed picture books, including the now-classic Fancy Nancy series. In 2013, she won the Children’s Choice Book Award for Best Illustrator of the Year for Fancy Nancy and the Mermaid Ballet.

From Leaf to Bean: A Delicious Look at the Health Perks of Tea and Chocolate

~ Sawyer Free Library

Savor an afternoon of flavor and fun at the Sawyer Free Library with From Leaf to Bean: A Delicious Look at the Health Perks of Tea and Chocolate on Tuesday, October 14, from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m.

Led by Kim Larkin of Klassic Kreations, this engaging workshop explores the rich history, health benefits, and cultural traditions of both dark chocolate and fine teas. Participants will enjoy pairing three teas with three different varieties of chocolate, guided by a tea aroma tasting wheel. Along the way, Kim will share fascinating insights into how cacao beans and tea leaves are transformed into the treats we love, demonstrate how to brew the perfect “cuppa,” and introduce the artistry behind Japanese and Chinese tea ceremonies. The afternoon wraps up with a lively interactive quiz—making this a deliciously educational experience you won’t want to miss.

To attend this delicious and informative event, register at sawyerfreelibrary.org

Author Talk with Mark Kurlansky: The Boston Way: Radicals Against Slavery & The Civil War

~ Sawyer Free Library

Join the Sawyer Free Library for an afternoon with acclaimed author Mark Kurlansky as he discusses his latest book, The Boston Way: Radicals Against Slavery & The Civil War on Saturday, October 25 from 2:00 to 3:00 PM.

In this powerful and thought-provoking work, Kurlansky explores a lesser-known side of abolitionism—the Boston pacifists who believed persuasion, not violence, was the only path to lasting freedom and justice. Through the lives of William Lloyd Garrison, Frederick Douglass, and other Black and white abolitionists, Kurlansky examines how their moral courage and commitment to nonviolence shaped not only the fight against slavery, but the broader pursuit of human rights that would influence thinkers from Leo Tolstoy to Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Copies of The Boston Way will be available for purchase at the event courtesy of The Bookstore of Gloucester.

The event is free, and open to all to attend but registration is requested at sawyerfreelibrary.org.

Join the Sawyer Free Library for the Relaunch of the Gloucester Lyceum

~ Sawyer Free Library

Placemaking: Our Library In Our Community with Ethan Kent

The Sawyer Free Library will officially relaunch the Gloucester Lyceum with a special event, Placemaking: Our Library In Our Community, featuring internationally renowned placemaking leader Ethan Kent, Executive Director of PlacemakingX.

The program will be held Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Sawyer Free Library’s Community Room, 2 Dale Avenue, Gloucester. Free and open to the public, registration is required at sawyerfreelibrary.org. Space is limited.

The program will begin with remarks by Mr. Kent, followed by interactive conversations with fellow attendees throughout the various spaces of the newly renovated, expanded, and modernized Sawyer Free Library. The perspectives shared in these dialogues will inspire closing insights from Mr. Kent, allowing participants to reflect on how Gloucester can continue to build meaningful, inclusive spaces—starting with its newly reimagined Library.

“Placemaking is about strengthening the connection between people and the places they share,” said Ethan Kent. “It’s about making the spaces we live, the places we love.”

The Gloucester Lyceum: A Tradition Renewed

Founded in 1830, the Gloucester Lyceum once brought thought leaders such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau to Cape Ann. Today, the Sawyer Free Library’s relaunch builds on this proud tradition, offering marquee programs that bring contemporary voices into dialogue with the community.

“The relaunch of the Gloucester Lyceum is about renewing a proud tradition of bringing people together for public discourse within a collaborative forum. True to the notion that a lyceum is “where the city comes to think,” we are honored to welcome Ethan Kent as our first speaker in this new chapter. His work around the world embodies the very spirit of community dialogue and imagination that we hope to cultivate right here in Gloucester,” said Laura Ventimiglia, Chair of the Gloucester Lyceum. 

“Welcoming Ethan Kent to Gloucester to help relaunch our historic Lyceum is both timely and inspiring,” added Mern Sibley, President of the Board of Trustees of the Sawyer Free Library. “Our newly reimagined Library is the hub of the community—offering so much to so many. Ethan’s work demonstrates how meaningful public spaces can bring people together, foster belonging, and strengthen communities.”

About the Sawyer Free Library

For nearly 200 years, the Sawyer Free Library has served Gloucester as a hub of culture, learning, and civic life. Its newly renovated and expanded building continues this mission, providing equal access to resources and programs that support the community’s evolving needs.

For more information and to register for this special evening, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org. Space is limited, so register today!

Sawyer Free Library Now Recruiting Adult Participantsfor Free Computer Basics Course

~ Sawyer Free Library

Graduates receive a Chromebook and one year of home Internet service

The Sawyer Free Library is now accepting participants for its new Computer Basics Course, a free, hands-on program designed to help adults build essential digital skills for everyday life, work, and learning. The 15-hour, self-paced course, which runs through December 12, 2025, is delivered in the Library’s new Digital Learning Lab. Upon successful completion, qualified participants will receive a free Chromebook to keep and a hotspot with one year of Internet service. 

“Digital skills open doors—to jobs, to services, to staying connected with family,” said Library Director Jenny Benedict. “The Sawyer Free Library’s Digital Learning Lab team provides welcoming, one-on-one support so adults with little or no experience can learn at their own pace and celebrate every milestone.”

Participants will gain foundational skills that include setting up and using a computer and the Internet, navigating websites and applications, practicing online security and safety, and using communication tools such as email and video conferencing.

The Computer Basics Course will be held in the Digital Learning Lab on the ground floor of Sawyer Free Library, located at 2 Dale Avenue in Gloucester. Drop-in training and practice hours are available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The course is designed for adults with limited computer access or experience. Priority will be given to applicants who qualify for benefit programs and have a defined learning goal. Eligible programs include, but are not limited to, SNAP, TANF, WIC, TAFDC, EAEDC, MRVP, RAFT, LIHEAP, MassHealth/Medicaid, and SSI/SSDI.

Interested participants can contact the Digital Learning Lab Service Desk by phone at 978-325-5546, by email at computerbasics@sawyerfreelibrary.org or in person at the Library and asking for Roger or Joe.

Participants do not need to own a computer to enroll. A Chromebook will be provided for use during the course and may be taken home upon successful completion. In addition, a hotspot with a one-year Internet service plan will be included for eligible graduates.

“This is about access and confidence,” added Benedict. “With individualized coaching from our Digital Tutors and Librarians, adults can practice real-world tasks—safely setting up devices, applying for jobs, accessing health information, or connecting with loved ones online.”

The Sawyer Free Library’s Digital Learning Lab is a new community resource dedicated to digital inclusion—offering approachable training, devices, and support to help Gloucester residents thrive in an increasingly online world.  The Computer Basics Course is supported through a generous Digital Equity Initiative Partnership Grant from the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF).

Preserving Cape Ann’s Ethnic Cultural Heritage | Branded: Gloucester’s Hidden History of Enemy Aliens

~ Sawyer Free Library

The Sawyer Free Library is proud to host Branded: Gloucester’s Hidden History of Enemy Aliens on Saturday, September 27 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The event will take place in the Library’s (brand new!) Community Room located on the ground floor level.

Join Gloucester native and writer Maria Millefoglie as she uncovers a little-known chapter of local history in her presentation Italian Immigrant: A Story of Allegiance, Loss, and Belonging in World War II.

Drawing on archives, historic newspapers, and community stories, Millefoglie reveals how World War II reshaped Gloucester’s Sicilian and Italian immigrant families. While hundreds of young men proudly enlisted in the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, others in their households were labeled “enemy aliens,” banned from the waterfront, and stripped of their livelihoods. During this time, the U.S. Navy requisitioned some of Gloucester’s finest fishing vessels for minesweeping and patrol duty, even as German U-boats prowled the Atlantic.

Through storytelling, timelines, and photographs, Millefoglie brings to life the sacrifices of fishermen pressed into naval service, the struggles of families torn between loyalty to their new country and ties to their homeland, and the resilience of women who held households together amid fear and loss.

This presentation not only pays tribute to the past but also offers timely reflections on how history echoes in today’s debates about immigration and belonging.

This event is the first project under Preserving Cape Ann’s Ethnic Cultural Heritage, part of the broader Down the Fort: A Documentary and Archive Project, which works to capture and honor the immigrant and ethnic experiences that have long shaped Cape Ann’s cultural fabric.

Register for the presentation on Library’s calendar at sawyerfreelibrary.org.

The Sawyer Free Library is located at 2 Dale Avenue in Gloucester. For details on all the Library’s services and upcoming programming visit: sawyerfreelibrary.org.

Sawyer Free Library Announces Grand Reopening of Transformed Historic Building

~ Sawyer Free Library

Celebrations to Kick Off with Public Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony, September 5

After nearly two years of renovation, expansion, and modernization, the Sawyer Free Library is proud to announce the grand reopening of its historic home at 2 Dale Avenue. To celebrate this major milestone, the Library will host a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on Friday, September 5, followed by a Community Open House on Saturday, September 6. 

All are warmly invited to attend and explore the newly revitalized space.

This once-in-a-generation transformation marks a bold new chapter in the Library’s nearly 200-year legacy as a pillar of civic and cultural life in Gloucester. The result is a vibrant and inclusive public space designed to support 21st-century learning, creativity, and community connection.

“The new Sawyer Free Library reflects the spirit of our city: rooted in tradition, driven by creativity, and focused on building an inclusive, dynamic future”, said Mern Sibley, President of the Library’s Board of Trustees.

“This represents one of the most significant civic investments in Gloucester in a generation,” said Gloucester MayorGreg Verga. “It reflects what’s possible when we invest in public spaces that serve everyone.”

“We are incredibly proud to welcome everyone back into a new Sawyer Free Library that is reimagined, renewed and ready to inspire,” added Library Director Jenny Benedict. “This Library will serve our community as a launchpad for lifelong learning, innovation, and connection for decades to come.”

A Space Revitalized for All

Designed by Oudens Ello Architecture and Dore + Whittier Architects and built by W.T. Rich Company, the $28million construction project seamlessly blends the original 1913 structure and 1976 addition with a striking new 14,000-square-foot expansion. The project was guided by extensive community input and completed on time and within budget.

The transformed Library offers an expansive array of amenities and technologies to serve Gloucester’s evolving needs:

  • A light-filled Children’s Room and Early Learning Center
  • A vibrant Teen Room featuring a STEAM-focused Creation Space, gaming consoles, and study nooks.
  • A state-of-the-art Digital Learning Lab and Podcast Studios with media creation tools, digitization equipment, and soundproof recording rooms
  • A 100-seat Community Room with adjacent public-use kitchen
  • New study rooms, conference spaces, and quiet reading lounges
  • A dedicated Local History Research Center with an extensive collection of books and manuscripts, a robust digital archive, and an interactive 85” Gloucester History Timeline, alongside the preserved writing desk of historian Joseph Garland

In addition, visitors can enjoy a refreshed Matz Gallery for local art exhibitions and the soaring three-story Cape Ann Quarries mural by artist Leslie Bartlett. Outdoors, the grounds feature expanded outdoor gathering spaces, including the Fountain Plaza, covered Dale Avenue Porch and the Library Greenway with raised garden beds, as well as EV charging stations and bike/e-bike parking.

With over 66,000 items—including books, media, digital devices and book club kits—sections of the Library’s collection have grown alongside its physical footprint. New conveniences like after-hours pickup lockers extend access for all.

Built for the Future

The Library sets a new standard for sustainable public building design in the region. Built to Net Zero Ready standards and LEED Gold certification, the building features an all-electric HVAC system, smart energy systems, rainwater harvesting, and climate-resilient landscaping—demonstrating a strong commitment to long-term environmental stewardship.

“The long and challenging journey to restore, expand, and revitalize one of Cape Ann’s greatest public resources has reached a successful ending through the tireless work of dedicated trustees, donors, and a community that cherishes the tradition of a free public library,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). “Now, its doors will open wide again to allow us all to begin our own countless journeys in the future, made possible by the resources and the inspiration inside its incredible new spaces.”

“As the daughter of a school librarian, I’ve always understood the power of libraries to open doors and bring communities together. The reopening of the Sawyer Free Library reflects Gloucester’s deep commitment to knowledge, creativity, and civic life,” said Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante (D-Gloucester). “The facilities in the expanded library will serve every generation — supporting early literacy, digital access, lifelong learning, and community gathering in one space. Thank you to the many partners who helped make this transformative project a reality.”

A Community Effort, A Shared Legacy

The $28 million construction transformation was made possible through generous public and private support, including over $10 million from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, $6 million from individual donors, $1.85 million from corporate donors, and $200,000 in local government and community partner grants. In addition, the Library Corporation contributed $2 million to the project during the design phase from trust funds. The capital project has reached completion on time and within budget.

To date, 65% of the Library’s capital campaign goal has been raised. Fundraising continues to fully cover construction costs and support the Library’s long-term vision. To contribute, visit: sawyerfreelibrary.org.

For nearly two centuries, the Sawyer Free Library has served as a trusted source of knowledge, creativity, and connection. The 2025 Library honors that legacy while boldly embracing the future—with a mission grounded in inclusion, sustainability, and lifelong learning.

“This is Gloucester’s library,” said Sibley. “And it belongs to everyone.” 

To celebrate this milestone, the Library will host two public events:

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
Friday, September 5, from 3:00–4:30 PM
Featuring remarks, guided tours, a Cape Ann Youth Chorus performance, and light refreshments.
Free and open to all. Rain or Shine.

Community Celebration & Open House
Saturday, September 6, from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
A day of family-friendly activities and opportunities to explore the transformed space.

Help The Open Door Raise Hunger Awareness this September

~ todtheopendoor

September is Hunger Action Month™, an annual, nationwide campaign by the Feeding America network to raise awareness and encourage action to reduce food insecurity.  

The Open Door has partnered with several groups to raise awareness about hunger, and share information on how to help support its mission.

The Open Door distributed 2.35 million pounds of food to 11,893 people through its Food Pantries in 2024, meeting a 30% increase in requests for food assistance in 2024 (on top of a 30% increase in 2023), through 100,774 visits. 

Since August 2024, in addition to clients already receiving services, The Open Door has registered 820 new households for services at its Gloucester and Ipswich food pantry locations: An average of 68 new families per month.

HUNGER ACTION MONTH EVENTS:

The Open Door has partnered with several local organizations to raise hunger-awareness this September: 

  • Gloucester Mayor Greg Verga will issue a proclamation naming September Hunger Action Month in the city on Friday, September 12 
  • Thrift the Runway, a fashion show organized by The Open Door Thrift Store, Second Glance, will raise funds for local food assistance programs of the nonprofit on Sunday, September 14 at The Cut in Gloucester. Tickets are available at FOODPANTRY.org 
  • View Gloucester City Hall and the Beauport Hotel lit up orange all month long (orange is the color used to promote hunger awareness) 
  • Watch out for Hunger Action Month themed coasters at 1606 Restaurant & Oyster Bar and the Seaport Grille 
  • Several local businesses are offering special promotions and products this month to raise awareness, including: 
  • Brothers Brew in Rockport will offer an orange themed donut  
  • Cake Ann will offer chocolate orange and creamsicle flavored cupcakes  
  • Turtle Alley will offer chocolate bars embossed with the word “LOVE”  
  • A portion of proceeds will support local hunger-relief programs of The Open Door! 
  • The Gloucester City Council will also wear orange to help raise awareness at their Tuesday, Sept. 9 meeting. 
  • SHOP and DONATE at Second Glance year-round. Revenue at the store raises funds for hunger-relief programs of The Open Door. Free referrals are also given to the community for those who need a little extra help. 

MORE WAYS TO HELP:

  • Donations are the most needed form of support as The Open Door doubles down on core programs and strategizes how to best meet increased need with fewer federal resources available. Donations big and small help move the needle, and can be made as one-time gifts, monthly donations, or annual contributions. Make a donation at FOODPANTRY.org. There are a variety of ways to make a donation, including: 
  • Company matches: many companies will also match donations made by their employees—doubling the impact of your gift. Ask your employer today if such a program exists at your workplace. 
  • Donate through a Donor Advised Fund (DAF), Individual Retirement Rollover Gifts, and stocks and securities. 
  • Legacy giving 
  • Sponsor a meal 
  • Donations to Second Glance Thrift Store (make an appointment at FOODPANTRY.org/booknow). Items sold at the store create revenue for The Open Door 
  • In kind goods and services also support The Open Door mission 
  • Volunteers are another critical pillar of help at The Open Door, and provided 26,260 hours of support in 2024. There are a wide range of volunteer opportunities, from packing groceries, to sorting food, to supporting the kitchen, and tagging products for sale at Second Glance. Learn more at FOODPANTRY.org/volunteer 

Members of the community are also invited to wear orange to raise awareness about local food insecurity this September. 

Help Break a World Record: Library Card Sign Up Challenge!

~ Sawyer Free Library

The Sawyer Free Library is inviting the entire community to join in a fun-filled day of discovery, creativity, and history-making at its Community Celebration & Open House on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 2 Dale Avenue, Gloucester.

As part of the festivities, the Library is launching a Library Card World Record Attempt — aiming to break the current record of 1,922 library card sign-ups in a single day. 🎯 New and renewing cardholders will receive a limited-edition commemorative Sawyer Free Library card as a keepsake from this exciting moment.

“A Library for Everyone” celebration marks the grand reopening of the newly renovated and expanded Sawyer Free Library, now a vibrant and inclusive center for learning, imagination, and community connection.

In addition to the record attempt, attendees can explore the library’s transformed spaces and enjoy live music including Gloucester Student Band, engaging presentations, children’s programs, tech demos, collaborative art projects, Rhea Pizzeria Napoletana, a visit from the Boston Red Sox Wally the Green Monster and much more—with activities and prizes designed for all ages.

Everyone is welcome to attend, have fun, and help make history! Details: sawyerfreelibrary.org

2025 Sawyer Free Library Ribbon Cutting Celebration – September 5th!

~ Sawyer Free Library

After nearly two years of renovation, expansion, and modernization, the Sawyer Free Library is thrilled to welcome the community back to its historic home at 2 Dale Avenue in the heart of Gloucester!

Join us for a special Ribbon Cutting Celebration on:

Friday, September 5, 2025
3:00 – 4:30 PM
School Street Entrance, Sawyer Free Library

Be part of this once-in-a-generation moment as we unveil your newly reimagined 21st-century library—a vibrant, inclusive space built for learning, creativity, and connection.

Enjoy remarks, a ceremonial ribbon cutting, a performance by the Cape Ann Youth Chorus, and light refreshments.

This rain-or-shine event is free and open to all—come celebrate with neighbors, friends, and fellow library lovers as we turn the page to an exciting new chapter!

Don’t Miss the Fun!
Come back the next day for our Community Open House on Saturday, September 6 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, featuring musical performances, activities, and family-friendly fun for all ages! Stay tuned for even more details or visit sawyerfreelibrary.org!