This Week at WPL

November is here, and Whitefield Public Library has another wonderful week of programs and activities for our community! From exploring North Country history and writing poetry to hands-on technology, creative arts, family storytimes, and opportunities to connect with others, there is something for all ages at WPL this week!

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3

PRE-K STORIES & PLAY

9:30–10:30 AM

Suggested Ages 3–6 & Their Caregivers

Program Room

Join us for stories, songs, games, movement, and crafts designed for preschool and kindergarten-age children. A fun opportunity to learn, play, and connect with other families!

HOMESCHOOL ART

12:30–2:00 PM

Ages 5–12

Registration required: https://forms.gle/9TPD5eL5NmQbRBJJ7

Explore the world of art through the works of different artists! Participants will learn about artists and their creative styles through stories, photographs, and videos before creating their own artwork inspired by what they discover.

This program is part of a 26-session series running through May 2027. A $25 materials fee covers the full series. Payment arrangements are available for families who need them. Space is limited to 16 participants, and a signed liability release is required.

SCHOOL AGE OPEN PLAY

3:00–4:00 PM

Ages 5–12

Come spend the afternoon creating, exploring, and having fun with friends!

Build with LEGOs, play board games, work on arts and crafts, write stories, or put on a puppet show. The Program Room is open for school-age children to enjoy a variety of creative and social activities.

STARK DECENCY: NEW HAMPSHIRE'S WORLD WAR II GERMAN PRISONER OF WAR CAMP

Presented by Allen Koop — A New Hampshire Humanities Program

5:00–6:00 PM

Sign-up requested: https://forms.gle/362CBhuyXDiVaWN26

Discover a fascinating chapter of North Country history! During World War II, approximately 300 German prisoners of war were held at Camp Stark, near the village of Stark, New Hampshire. Historian Allen Koop explores the history of this unusual wartime facility and what its story reveals about New Hampshire's role in World War II and the broader American wartime experience. Space is limited to 30 participants, with only a few openings remaining at the time of the newsletter's publication.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5

PRE-K STORIES & PLAY

9:30–10:30 AM

Suggested Ages 3–6 & Their Caregivers

Program Room

Join us for stories, games, songs, movement, and crafts in a welcoming environment designed for preschool and kindergarten-age children.

TODDLER TALES & TUNES

11:00–11:30 AM

Suggested Ages Birth–3

Program Room

Bring your little ones for developmentally appropriate stories, songs, and movement designed especially for our youngest Library friends.

DAY OF THE DEAD STORIES & CRAFT

3:00 PM

Ages 5–12

Join us for an afternoon exploring Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a Mexican tradition honoring and remembering loved ones who have died. Children will learn about the celebration and its traditions before creating their own colorful sugar skull masks.

POETRY WRITING WORKSHOP WITH BENJAMIN PRINKKI

6:30 PM

Adults & Teens

Sign-up requested: https://forms.gle/TjuJn9nZnM5f2kcw6

Discover the power of poetry and explore your own creativity! In honor of Edgar Allan Poe, poet Benjamin Prinkki will lead an introductory workshop exploring the art of poetry writing. Whether you already enjoy writing poetry or have always wanted to try, this workshop offers an opportunity to explore how words, rhythm, and imagery can bring thoughts and emotions to life. Join us for an evening of literary creativity and inspiration!

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP & LOVED ONES LIVING WITH DEMENTIA PROGRAM

With Mary Bates, Jeannie Jacobs & Cate DiBlasi

9:00–10:00 AM

This monthly program provides a welcoming opportunity for caregivers and their loved ones living with dementia.

Caregivers can connect with others, share experiences, exchange ideas and strategies, and find understanding and support in a group setting with Mary Bates and Jeannie Jacobs. At the same time, loved ones living with dementia will participate in a separate program led by Cate DiBlasi, featuring activities designed to stimulate the mind and encourage movement.

FRIDAY MUSIC & PLAY WITH KATE

1:00–2:00 PM

Preschool & Kindergarten-Age Children and Their Caregivers

Program Room

Join us for a fun-filled hour of music, movement, and play! Children will enjoy singing songs, exploring musical instruments, moving to music, and participating in finger-play activities that support motor and social development. Music is followed by time for free play and socialization with other children and caregivers.

KNITTING, CROCHETING & HANDICRAFTS GROUP

1:00–3:00 PM

Teens & Adults — Front Reading Room

Bring along a project you are working on, learn something new, or simply enjoy creating alongside others! Knitters, crocheters, sewers, needlepoint enthusiasts, and other handicrafters of all skill levels are welcome. Sessions may occasionally be canceled, so first-time participants are encouraged to call ahead at (603) 837-2030. To join the group's email list, contact Lyn at: whitefieldpubliclibrary2@gmail.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7

CNC MACHINE WORKSHOP WITH TANNER THOMPSON

10:00–11:30 AM

RSVP: https://forms.gle/S7oh3m8RXfYdd7Aa7

Interested in learning how computer-controlled machines can be used to create projects from wood, acrylic, and other materials? Join Tanner Thompson for an introductory workshop exploring CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology and the basics of building an affordable, functional CNC machine for home use.

Tanner will explain how CNC machines operate, demonstrate their basic movements, and discuss the parts, tools, software, and materials needed to get started. Participants will learn about different approaches to building a machine, selecting compatible components, assembling and maintaining equipment, and troubleshooting common challenges. The workshop focuses on practical, accessible options for hobbyists and beginners rather than advanced industrial machining. Each participant will receive a suggested parts list for planning a home-built CNC machine costing approximately $300, compared with commercially available options that may cost $1,000 or more.

Due to noise and dust considerations, there will be no live cutting demonstration.

HOLIDAY CLOSING REMINDER: Whitefield Public Library will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day.

From discovering local history and exploring poetry to hands-on technology, creative activities, and family programs, November is off to an exciting start at Whitefield Public Library! We hope to see you at WPL this week!

Your Friendly Neighborhood Librarians,

Courtney, Lyn, Teresa, Audia (and sometimes Carolyn)