The Bedrock Geology of Falmouth with Richard William Butts, a Joy of Learning Lecture

The Bedrock Geology of Falmouth with Richard William Butts, a Joy of Learning Lecture. 

The Falmouth Public Library invites the community to join us for a fascinating lecture on The Bedrock Geology of Falmouth with traveling lecturer Richard William Butts on Tuesday, October 28, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM in the Hermann Room. This program is part of the library’s Joy of Learning Lecture Series and sponsored by the Friends of the Falmouth Public Library. 

Richard William Butts holds a Master of Science in Environmental Studies with a Geoscience Concentration from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and a Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences and Environmental Geoscience from Bridgewater State University. Drawing on his academic background and professional expertise, Butts will guide attendees through the geology of Falmouth, which is primarily composed of granite gneiss and undivided schist—formations characteristic of the Seaboard Lowland region in southeastern Massachusetts.

In addition to the bedrock foundation, Butts will address the marine and terrestrial biosphere, the freshwater and marine hydrosphere, as well as the climate of Falmouth including storms offering a comprehensive look at the interconnected systems that shape the natural environment of the region.

The program is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended and may be completed through the library’s events calendar at falmouthpubliclibrary.org.

For more information, please call the library at 508-457-2555 or visit falmouthpubliclibrary.org.

Now Showing: US — A One-Day Short Film Event

Now Showing: US — A One-Day Short Film Event at the Falmouth Public Library

The Falmouth Public Library invites the community to an afternoon of reflection, laughter, and connection at Now Showing: US, a one-day short film event on Saturday, October 11 at 2:00 PM in the Hermann Room.

This special program features a collection of award-winning and thought-provoking short films that explore identity, relationships, and resilience across cultures and experiences.

Films include:

  • I’m in Love with Edgar Allen Poe (13 mins, 2024, English) — Two baby goths attempt to summon the ghost of Edgar Allan Poe, but unexpected obstacles put their spooky plans—and their friendship—at risk. Directed by Andrea A. Walter.

  • Hello Stranger (16 mins, 2024, English) — A documentary about Cooper, a person navigating their gender identity while doing laundry, recognized at film festivals including the Calgary International Film Festival. Directed by Amélie Hardy.

  • Sew Into You (11 mins, 2025, English) — A widowed woman seeks advice from her younger queer coworker on asking out a woman for the first time. Directed by Emma Josephson.

  • I Never Promised You a Jasmine Garden (20 mins, 2024, Arabic & English) — A queer Palestinian woman struggles with unspoken love during a phone call with her best friend. Directed by Teyama Alkamli.

  • Warsha (15 mins, 2022, Arabic) — A Syrian migrant working as a crane operator in Beirut discovers freedom in an unexpected place. Directed by Dania Bdeir.

In addition to the screenings, attendees can enjoy snacks and soft drinks, take part in audience voting, and join a community discussion.

Whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this event invites everyone to reflect, celebrate, and connect through the art of film.

Come for the stories. Stay for the conversation.
Now Showing: Us — queer cinema, shared humanity.

This free program is open to all. Bring a friend and experience the power of storytelling through short film. 

This event is made possible through funding from the Falmouth Public Library Board of Trustees.

 

 

Yoga with Hiveclass

Learn the Fundamentals of Yoga with Hiveclass at the Falmouth Public Library

The Falmouth Public Library invites the community to join a special introductory yoga program, Learn the Fundamentals of Yoga with Hiveclass, on Tuesday, September 30 at 6:30 PM in the Hermann Room.

This casual class is open to all and offers the perfect opportunity to explore Hiveclass, a free digital learning platform for sports and physical activity. Participants will be guided through foundational yoga poses and flows using a series of Hiveclass videos, and library staff will be on hand to facilitate the session.

Please note that this is not a teacher-led class. Instead, attendees will experience Hiveclass resources firsthand while learning how to access classes from home. Don’t forget to bring your own yoga mat!

Whether you are new to yoga or just curious about Hiveclass, this program offers a welcoming introduction to both.

Sign up here

Poetry Meets Running: A Warm-Up for the Falmouth Road Race

On the eve of the Falmouth Road Race, the Falmouth Public Library is proud to host a special poetry reading with author and scientist Jon Hare on Saturday, August 16 at 2:00 PM in the Hermann Foundation Meeting Room. Hare will present selections from his new collection, Woods Hole Senryu—a poetic tribute to the quirks, contrasts, and character of Woods Hole.

Written in the style of senryu, a short Japanese poetic form similar to haiku, Woods Hole Senryu uses humor and insight to reflect on human nature and local life. Through the lens of a scientist and a runner, Hare offers a uniquely personal and geographic journey that begins and ends in Woods Hole—mirroring the route of the famed Falmouth Road Race.

“Running for me is a time to think—almost meditative,” Hare says. “Many of these poems were shaped while I ran. The order of the poems follows the geography—from Woods Hole, up to Falmouth, and back. The first half is essentially the Road Race course, and my time training for the Road Race deeply influenced this collection.”

Attendees are also invited to write their own senryu or haiku on provided postcards and enjoy light refreshments inspired by race day—think protein bars, reusable water bottles, and other runner-friendly snacks. There will even be a book giveaway!

Join us for an afternoon of thoughtful humor and local insight as Hare shares poems inspired by movement, observation, and the vibrant spirit of the Falmouth community.

Celebrate the power of poetry and place—just in time for race weekend.

This event is free and open to the public. We recommend registering. 

For more information, contact the Falmouth Public Library at (508) 457-2555 or visit www.falmouthpubliclibrary.org.

Project ITCH (Is Tick Control Helping?) Public Presentation

As tick-borne illnesses continue to pose a significant public health risk across the Cape and Islands, researchers are stepping up public education and outreach efforts to help residents stay informed and protected.

On Monday, July 28 from 4:00–5:00 PM, the Falmouth Public Library will host a public update on Project ITCH (Is Tick Control Helping?), a CDC-funded research initiative that aims to assess the effectiveness of common tick control methods in real-world settings.

The event will take place in the Hermann Foundation Meeting Room at the Main Library, 300 Main Street, Falmouth.

The presentation will be led by Dr. Stephen M. Rich, a professor of microbiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Executive Director of the New England Center of Excellence in Vector-borne Diseases. Dr. Rich has been at the forefront of tick-borne disease research in southeastern Massachusetts, working in close collaboration with Barnstable County Extension and the Department of Health and Environment.

Now in its third year, Project ITCH is being conducted across all six New England states. The Cape Cod portion of the project includes field visits to residential properties, tick sampling, and resident surveys. The data help researchers evaluate the effectiveness of various tick prevention strategies and inform future public health efforts.

Dr. Rich will share preliminary findings from the current field season, highlight trends observed across the region, and offer guidance on effective tick control methods for homeowners and communities.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended. 

For more information, contact the Falmouth Public Library at (508) 457-2555 or visit www.falmouthpubliclibrary.org.

 

Explore America Through the Lens of Mark Chester

Falmouth Public Library Hosts “Roadshow Anthropology” Book Slideshow with Photographer Mark Chester

The Falmouth Public Library is delighted to welcome acclaimed photographer Mark Chester for a captivating slideshow presentation of his latest book, Roadshow Anthropology, on Tuesday, July 29, from 6:30 to 7:30 PM in the Hermann Foundation Meeting Room at the Main Library, located at 300 Main Street, Falmouth, MA.

Roadshow Anthropology is a striking collection of black-and-white photographs that capture the diverse spirit of America through the lens of the open road. From quirky roadside attractions to poignant glimpses of everyday life, Chester’s images offer a thoughtful and often humorous look at the country’s cultural landscape. With a nod to the tradition of visual storytelling exemplified by photojournalist Lee Friedlander, Chester blends artistry and social commentary to highlight the innovation, contradictions, and character of American life.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended. 

For more information, contact the Falmouth Public Library at (508) 457-2555 or visit www.falmouthpubliclibrary.org.

Help Shape the Future of Adult Programs at the Library!

At the Falmouth Public Library, we believe the best programs start with you—our community! That’s why we’re inviting you to take a few minutes to complete our Adult Programming Survey.

Whether you’re a regular at our events or haven’t attended one yet, your input is incredibly valuable. We want to know what kinds of topics interest you, what types of experiences are you looking for—educational, creative, or social and what days and times work best for your schedule?

This short survey helps us design programs that reflect the interests, needs, and schedules of our adult community members. From author talks and art workshops to tech help and wellness sessions, your feedback plays a direct role in what we offer next.

👉Link to Survey

 

 

July is Love Your Lake Month!

Celebrate Love Your Lake Month with the Falmouth Public Library and Falmouth Pond Coalition

This July, the Falmouth Public Library invites residents and visitors to dive into Love Your Lake Month, a celebration of local water stewardship presented in partnership with the Falmouth Pond Coalition. Taking inspiration from the Libraries Love Lakes organization, a nonprofit based in the Finger Lakes region of New York that encourages the use of libraries to educate about freshwater issues.

Join us for two special and free screenings of pond-focused short films produced by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) on Tuesday, July 15 and Thursday, July 17 at 4:00 PM in the Library’s Hermann Room. These engaging films highlight the ecological importance of our local ponds and efforts to preserve their beauty and health.  Concurrently, there will be crafts for children to complete in the Bay Room and pond lovers will lead a story hour for children in the Children’s Room (also, July 15th and 17th at 4:00 PM). 

The event also features a spotlight on OLAUG – Old Ladies against Underwater Garbage, a spirited community group dedicated to restoring water quality and keeping our ponds safe—for people and pets alike.

Come learn how you can contribute to clean, thriving local waterways while enjoying an inspiring mix of science, storytelling, and community action.

For more information, contact the Falmouth Public Library at (508) 457-2555 or visit www.falmouthpubliclibrary.org.

Summer Reading Club for Grownups!

Attention Grownups! Do you like to read on the beach?  Is your TBR (To-Be-Read) pile shrinking fast thanks to all this glorious summer daylight? Would you like to feel a sense of accomplishment?  Join our Summer Reading Club for Grownups – it’s easy and fun! 

📚 Pick up a Reading Loyalty Card at any of the branch libraries (Main, North, East) beginning Monday, July 7

📖 Read any books you like! 

✅ Each time you finish a book, bring your card to any library service desk (excluding the Children’s Room at the Main Library) to get it punched

📝  After 10 books, write your name and phone number on the back of the card and turn it in at any branch by Saturday, August 30

🎉  You’ll be entered to win a $10 gift certificate to one of Falmouth’s beloved ice cream shops!

🍦  Five winners will be announced the first week of September—just in time for one last scoop before summer ends!

Happy Summer Reading, grownups! 

 

Resident Ospreys: A Bird’s-Eye View into the Daily Life of an Osprey Family, Live from the Nest

Friday, July 25th, 2025 at 1:00 PM in the Hermann Room

Ever wonder what really goes on in an Osprey nest from spring to fall? Join us for Resident Ospreys: A Bird’s-Eye View into the Daily Life of an Osprey Family, Live from the Nest, a fascinating presentation that offers a unique, up-close look into the life of an Osprey family through the lens of the Osprey Cam.

The event will take place in the Hermann Room at the Falmouth Public Library and will be led by Glenn Davis, President of the Friends of Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge, Inc. (FMNWR). Davis will share captivating footage and stories from the past three years of the live-streaming camera project, which records around the clock and reveals both heartwarming and surprising moments in the nest.

“This project gives people a real-time connection to nature,” says Davis. “From dramatic weather to unexpected visitors, what we’ve seen in this nest has been both educational and unforgettable.”

What to Expect:

  • Rare video highlights from the Osprey Cam
  • Fascinating insights into Osprey behavior and parenting
  • Surprising interactions with other wildlife
  • A deeper understanding of local conservation efforts

Whether you are a birder, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about the lives of these iconic raptors, this event will leave you inspired and informed.

To register to attend, go to the Falmouth Public Library’s online event calendar or visit/call the Falmouth Public Library’s adult services desk at 508-457-2555 x7.