October

5th Annual Mini Art Show at Richards Memorial Library. Registration and canvases are available at the circulation desk. All ages are welcome to decorate up to two mini canvases. Return them by 12/11 to have them displayed as part of the art show in Jan. and Feb. 2027.

The Great Pumpkin Reading Program began September 22 at the Rutland Public Library, but you can still jump on board. It is the library’s largest and most popular reading program. The entire family competes against other families for the honor of being named “The Most Sincere Pumpkin Reading Family” – a high honor indeed. Families sign up at the library and receive a reading log and a rules sheet. Every family member contributes to the same reading log. Keep track of the time spent reading, whether alone, out loud together, or listening to an audio book. For every two hours that the family reads, they earn a raffle ticket. All hours must be returned by 10/30 at 1 p.m. to be counted. More info at the circulation desk.

Sunday, Oct. 4-11

Banned Books Week: According to the Richards Memorial Library staff, 4,235 books were banned in the U.S. in 2025. Staff cite the Bill of Rights as giving us the freedom to read, to make our own choices for ourselves and our families. To that end, they suggest some of the most challenged titles from last year: Sold by Patricia McCormick, The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe, Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas, Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo, A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas (she had two titles banned – piques my interest), and A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess. To learn more, go to the American Library Association at ala.org/bbooks/book-ban-data or Unite Against Book Bans at bookresumes.uniteagainstbookbans.org.

Can’t happen here? A quick online search revealed: The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners reported that public libraries faced 33 formal challenges and 309 informal challenges across 86 libraries in 2025. Specific titles faced localized challenges such as The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian in Mattapoisett or Tweaked in North Middlesex, though local decisions varied widely on whether materials were restricted or retained.

To counter these rising pressures, Massachusetts enacted the Freedom to Read Law signed by Gov. Maura Healey, which standardizes transparent review policies and prohibits removing books from public or school libraries based on personal, political, or religious views.

Wednesday, October 7

12 pm: Power Lunch sponsored by the Holden Municipal Light Department at the Holden Senior Center. For Holden residents only. Seating is limited. You must sign up at the office or call the center.

4:20-5:20 pm: LEGO Masters for ages 10+ at the Gale Free Library. Registration required and opened 9/30. They want to have the most experienced LEGO builders to help design and build this month’s Halloween display. The first session will be for the older who will help set up the world for the younger builders to fill in the next evening.

6-7:30 pm: Dungeons & Dragons at the Rutland Public Library. Join them for a series of one-shot D&D adventures, a chaotic and fun role-playing game. Open to grades 7 and up. Beginners welcome. Starts on the 10/7, and then every three weeks following.

Wed., Oct. 7 and Oct. 28

6-7:30 pm: Pizza and game night for kids 8+ sponsored by the Teen Advisory Board (TAB) at the Rutland Public Library. Food, fun, games and laughs. 

Wed., Oct. 7 - Sat., Oct. 31

Ghost count at the Richards Memorial Library. Friendly ghosts are hidden among the books in the J/Y room. Count them all and win a small prize.

Thursday, October 8

10:30 am-12 pm: The Craft of Writing Workshop with the Gale Free Library online via Zoom. Registration required. This month the writers will explore Color. As the leaves turn, and we look ahead to the more subdued palette of winter, let’s see how putting color into a piece of writing can help carry it.

4:20-5:05 pm: LEGO Jr. for ages 4-5 at the Gale Free Library. Registration required and opened on 10/01. This club is for the youngest LEGO heads. They’re making scary buildings and cars for the Halloween display. Plan to attend with your child - it’s fun to build together.

Friday, October 9

2:30-4:30: Book sale and donation day at the Richards Memorial Library. Donate books and shop for books all on the same day! Proceeds benefit library programs. No book sale/drop off on Saturday, 10/10 due to holiday weekend. The Friends accept donations only during scheduled dates and times: gently used books, DVDs, CDs, and video games. They do not accept textbooks, magazines, encyclopedias, VHS tapes, or bootleg CDS/DVDs. Do not leave books when the library is closed.

Saturday, October 10

10 am-12 pm: Hope Lives Here is looking for volunteers to help plant fall bulbs and perennials. Go to the nonprofit’s website at hlhgrief.org to sign up for a slot so they can plan accordingly. 

Monday, October 12

Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day observed. 

Tuesday, October 13

10:30 am: Downsizing with confidence with Jen Baker at the Paxton Senior Center. With a thoughtful plan and the right support, downsizing can be an empowering step toward a simpler, more comfortable life. Join Jen for this practical presentation.

11 am: Pollinator class at the Rutland Senior Center. Learn about planting for wildlife with Bethany from the Worcester County Conservation District. Review the benefits of native plants and then plant some seeds in the center’s garden.

2:30 pm: Veterans and American Legion Meeting at the Holden Senior Center. For more info, contact Doug Harvey, Commander of Post 42, at [email protected] or call 508-450-9965.

6:30-7:30 pm: Cooking Club at the Gale Free Library. Registration required. “First Recipe” looks back at the first recipe you remember making. You can put a modern spin on it or make it just as you remember it. Bring your recipe along with the dish to share with the group.

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Wednesday, October 14

10 a.m.: The Civil War: America in Strife with historian Anne O’Connor at the Paxton Senior Center. O’Connor discusses the events, turning points, and the human devastation of this war. She sorts out the key themes and encounters of the leaders and those who braved the battlefields. History comes alive in this visual presentation.

1:30 The Most Beautiful Woman in the World a play about Hedy Lemarr at the Holden Senior Center. History at Play LLC, offers a chance to experience this immersive living history event. Presented by the Holden Woman’s Club and the Friends of the Holden Senior Center. Sign up at the office or call the center.

4:20-5:20 pm: LEGO Club for ages 6+ at the Gale Free Library. Registration is required and opened on 10/7. This month is all about spookiness as they work on buildings and cemeteries for the Halloween display. Our LEGO Masters will set the stage, and our regular LEGO club kids will add to the scary world of witches, ghosts, skeletons, and more.

Thursday, October 15

6-8 pm: Paranormal Presentation with East Coast Spirit Chasers NE at the Rutland Public Library. They’ll share stories, photos, evidence, and experiences from two investigations—including an investigation right here at the Rutland Public Library and another at the famously haunted S.K. Pierce Mansion. Come hear what they found, what they experienced, and decide for yourself…Is the library really haunted? Bring your curiosity. Bring your courage. Maybe don’t sit alone in the dark afterward. All are welcome!

6:30-7:30 pm: Adult ukulele class with Julie Stepanek at the Gale Free Library. Registration required. Want to try an instrument that is fun and easy to play? Join Stepanek as she shows the fundamentals of ukulele playing. No experience necessary. Ukuleles provided. This program is for ages 16+.

7-7:45 pm: Creatures of the Night at Richards Memorial Library. Join them for this spooktacular live animal event. Meet four live animals that wake up when we go to bed. Animals from the Reptile Nook will likely include a lizard, a tarantula, and sakes. Best for young scientists ages 4-12, but all are welcome.

11:59 pm: Deadline for online grant applications to the Holden, Paxton and Rutland Local Cultural Councils. See Newsbitz for details on how to apply.

Friday, October 16

10 am: Medicare advisor Joe Best provides private appointments beginning at 10 a.m. at the Paxton Senior Center to review your needs and outline plans. Best will return on October 30. Call 508-756-2833 to schedule an appointment.

10-11 am: Kidding Around Yoga with Miss Nicole for ages 2-5. To register, email [email protected]. This is not your typical yoga class. Little ones learn basic poses with lots of music, movement, and literacy incorporated. Yoga helps children manage anxiety and improve emotional regulation, all while developing strength and flexibility.

4-4:45 pm: Family yoga with Dawn Marie at Richards Memorial Library. This is a welcoming, beginner-friendly family yoga class designed to help children and adults who love them slow down, move together and have fun. Please bring a yoga mat (or towel or blanket), and water bottle.

4:20-5 pm: Slime Time for ages 4+ at the Gale Free Library. Registration opens 10/9. Release your inner mad scientist or cauldron-stirring witch by customizing a jar of sticky slime with Miss Rachel. Note: this program is 40 minutes and ends at 5 pm.

Sunday, October 18

4-6 pm: Annual Trunk or Treat at the Paxton Center School parking lot with a friendly pumpkin decorating contest. This PCS PTO fundraiser includes a DJ, games, food trucks, a truck decorating contesting, and town departments and businesses that decorate their vehicles and have LOTS of candy for trick or treating. Admission is $!5 per person, maximum $50 per family. Pumpkins for the decorating contest need to be dropped off at 2:30 p.m. that day. Rain date is Oct. 25.

Monday, October 19

1 pm: The Roots of American Popular Music by John Waterman at the Holden Senior Center. This is a program of songs and stories about characters and events at the origins of the blues, rock, and country music. Sign up at the office or call the center.

Tuesday, October 20

10:30 am: eternalHealth benefits at the Paxton Senior Center. Get timely information on the benefits of this Medicare Advantage plan. Ask questions on cost and coverage at this presentation.

1 pm: Bemis Nursery will be at the Rutland Senior Center to show you how to create a DIY everlasting pumpkin. Cost is $25 ($20 for current Friends of the COA members). RSVP at the center.

2 pm: Pumpkin Craft at the Holden Senior Center. Join them for a pumpkin craft just in time for the fall.

Wednesday, October 21

1 pm: Arbella presentation with Susan Dunshee at the Holden Senior Center. Dunshee, the leasing and marketing specialist at Arbella, will discuss the 55+ community in Holden and cover what senior living means, sorting your options, and increasing longevity through socialization. Sign up at the office or call the center.

4:20-5:50 pm Hollywood Horror: Cuts and bruises with Little Spark Theater for ages 10+ at the Gale Free Library. Registration opens 10/14. Dive into the world of stage makeup with some gruesome wounds for this special Halloween class. Join Little Spark Theater to learn tricks using makeup to create realistic-looking wounds. Participants will be required to sign a waiver before participating.

Thursday, October 22

12:30 pm: Dolly Parton tribute at the Paxton Senior Center. Through music and storytelling, Amanda da Meli recreates the sound and spirit of this unforgettable entertainer. RSVP by 10/19 for the lunch option.

5:30-8 pm: A Masquerade Murder Mystery at the Gale Free Library. Registration required. Adults only, ages 18+. Join them for an evening like no other as the Reading Room is transformed into the scene of a Masquerade Ball Murder Mystery. This special program is presented by Boston’s Murder Mystery Company. The “crime” will take place from 6-8pm, however guests are expected to arrive by 5:30 pm to mingle, review the rules, set the scene, and receive suspect roles. Registration is limited, so RSVP asap. Costumes are encouraged.

Friday, October 23

10-11 am: Books & Blankies with Community Connections at Richards Memorial Library. For babies birth to 24 months and their caregivers. Thank you to Community Connections wachusettcfce.com for this program.

4:20-5 pm: Witch’s Pillows for ages 4+ at the Gale Free Library. Registration is required and opens 10/16. Decorate a witch’s pillow and fill it with a blend of herbs for an enchanting scent. Note: this program is 40 minutes long and ends at 5 pm.

Saturday, October 24

11 am-2 pm: Halloween in Holden: Trick or treat throughout Holden and Jefferson organized by Holden Recreation Department.

 5-7 pm: Halloween Spook Walk & Party by the Rutland Youth Group. Come on a walking tour through the Hope Lives Here Garden behind the Rutland Library if you dare! Play games, have your face painted, color trick or treat bags, watch Halloween movies, win prizes, snacks and drinks available - fun for all ages! At the First Congregational Church of Rutland.

Monday, October 26

10 am: The RealtorNurse: Understanding the paralyzing fear of downsizing, a presentation at the Rutland Senior Center. Change can be overwhelming, especially when it involves leaving a long-time family home. This insightful presentation bridges the worlds of healthcare and real estate to help families move forward with confidence. Speaker is Denise Scotia, a Keller-Williams Realtor.

5-6:30 pm: Personal Safety Workshop presented by the Vanessa T. Marcotte Foundation at Webster First Federal Credit Union in Worcester. Join them for this free personal safety and self-defense workshop for women, ages 15+.During this active participatory workshop, realistic self-defense tactics will be practiced. Learn about situational awareness and how to handle a confrontation both physically and mentally. Prepare to have fun and feel empowered. All fitness levels welcome. Space is limited and pre-registration is required at vtmf.org/event/personal-safety-workshop-worcester-ma-3/

Tuesday, October 27

10:30 am: Fall decoupage led by Michele Thorne at the Paxton Senior Center. Create a beautiful fall flower pot for your home, deck or porch in this DIY workshop. Call the center by Oct. 22 to reserve a spot. Cost is $8 for all materials.

Wednesday, October 28 

1:30 pm: Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out, Psychedelics at the Holden Senior Center. In April 1943, Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann accidentally discovered the powerful effects of LSD-25. Within two decades, LSD had shifted from psychiatric research to the counterculture movement. Classified as a Schedule I substance in 1970 brought most research to a halt. Today, psychedelic research has reemerged, with scientists again exploring their potential in clinical trials. Our speaker will discuss research being done at the Center for Translational Imaging at Northeastern University with Craig Ferris, PhD Director. Sign up at the office or call the center.

4:20-5:20 pm: Create your own spellbook for ages 7+ at the Gale Free Library. Registration opens 10/21. Ever learn a new spell and have nowhere to write it down? Decorate your own spellbook with the help of library wizard Mr. McDonough.

6-7:30 pm: Irish harp and vocals with Áine Minogue and “Harvest Celebration” at the Gale Free Library. Registration required. Born and raised in County Tipperary, Ireland, Minogue is an award-winning harpist, singer, arranger and composer who has entertained presidents and prime ministers while performing across the U.S. and around the world. The Boston Globe wrote: “...this Irish harpist combines a hypnotic Celtic spirituality and contemporary sophistication in her playing and delicately lovely singing.”

Wed, Oct. 28 – Wed. Nov. 18

Stuffed animal adoptions at Richards Memorial Library. In honor of Stuffed Animal Day, they’re kicking off three weeks of stuffed animal adoptions. Choose and name your stuffy, give it a vet check, and complete the official certificate. One stuff per patron while supplies last.

Thursday, October 29

6-7:30 pm: Monthly Art Club at the Gale Free Library for ages 16+. Registration required. Bring your own supplies or use theirs: watercolor paints and paper, brushes, pastels, colored pencils, graphite, pens, collage materials, and more. There is no specific project, but each month there is a quotation or book or image for inspiration. This program is intended for patrons of all abilities.

Friday, October 30

Halloween Costume Party: at the Holden Senior Center during the Morning Glory Cafe. Come dressed in your favorite costume, bring your friends, and enjoy some spooky surprises. Also, volunteers are needed during the Cafe on Fridays from 7-10 am to help with setup, kitchen prep, serving, and cleanup. Whether you can help every week or once or twice a month, please reach out to [email protected] if you are interested.

10-11 am: Halloween Scavenger Hunt with Community Connections for ages 2-5 at the Gale Free Library. No registration required. Join Community Connections for a silly, spooky Halloween scavenger hunt on the library lawn. This program helps increase social, fine and gross motor and problem-solving skills, and is a fun way to build vocabulary.

2:30-4:30 pm: Free Play Friday at the Gale Free Library. No registration required. Board games, Nintendo Switch, Magic: The Gathering, and Pokémon will all be available. Teens-only hour is 2:30-3:30. After 3:30 the program will be for all ages. Children ages 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Caregivers are encouraged to join in the fun.

Monday, Nov. 2 - Nov. 7

Call for art for the Gale Free Library’s Community Show with the theme, What is “quiet” to you? Maybe it’s time spent with watercolors and a cup of tea or curled up with a pet or a cozy book. Whatever it means, if you have interpreted that word in a 2-D art form - such as painting, photography, or poetry - consider submitting it for this exhibition. Unframed is preferred; matted is okay. Drop off at the reference desk. The exhibit will be displayed in the upstairs lobby from Nov. 5-30.

Tuesday, November 3

7 am-8 pm: Statewide elections are held today. Visit your town’s website for voting locations. Get out and vote. But read the Red Book first so you understand the nine ballot questions and their implications.

Wednesday, November 4

10 am: Schoolhouse Café at the Paxton Senior Center. Fall is a great time to visit the Café and sit and enjoy coffee “and” with old and new friends. All are welcome.

Saturday, November 7

10 a.m.-12 pm: Hope Lives Here is looking for volunteers to help build a new shed and winterize the garden. Go to the nonprofit’s website at hlhgrief.org to sign up for a slot so they can plan accordingly.

5:30-6:15 pm: Turkey supper at the First Congregational Church of Rutland. Listen to this menu: Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, squash, rolls, and apple crisp. Cost is $15 adults, $7 children age 5-12, and children under 5 free. For reservations, call the church office at  508-886-4453. Take-out dinners are available.