You probably know that the library is a busy place! Last year alone more than 10,000 people attended programs at the Ipswich Public Library. But did you know that we have NO money in our town budget for programming? Most library programs (as well as supplies, computer equipment, furnishings and many other needs) are funded through the generosity of the Friends of the Ipswich Public Library. The Friends work to raise funds all year long to support the library, but this month in particular there are two easy ways you can help! During the month of April, the Friends of the Ipswich Public Library will be the designated nonprofit in the Shaw’s Supermarket Give Back Where it Counts program. This means that each time you purchase a reusable bag at the Shaw’s at 146 High Street, $1 will be donated to the Friends of the Ipswich Library. Also throughout April, the Friends will be running a special promotion in the Friends of the Library Book Shop, which is right inside the library and open during all regular library hours. This month only, ALL books with BLUE and YELLOW dots will be BUY ONE GET ONE FREE! Come pick up some great deals and support the library at the same time! To learn more about the Friends of the Ipswich Public Library, or to donate and/or volunteer, click HERE.

Sisters in Crime is a robust organization of mystery and thriller authors whose speakers span New York Times bestselling authors to emerging greats. Each engages and entertains while sharing their experiences in the fast-changing world of publishing. Join us for three monthly panel discussions on the ins and outs of writing mysteries and getting published. Space is limited and registration is required – follow the links below to our calendar to read more about our guest authors for each month and to save your seat! Sunday, March 10th at 2pm: Mystery Making In this interactive workshop, four mystery authors representing different sub-genres, including cozy/traditional and thriller/suspense, will brainstorm on their feet to create a brand new mystery using suggestions provided by the audience. Fun, fast-paced, and fascinating, this improv game offers important insights into mystery writers’ minds and the conventions of the genre. [Click HERE for more information and to register]. Sunday, April 7th at 2pm: Stealing from the Dead You don’t need to be an international spy to write a page-turning thriller, or a law enforcement professional to write a police procedural. This discussion shows how authors put new twists on old plots, research facts and settings, and discover potential stories right in their own neighborhood. [Click HERE for more information and to register]. Sunday, May 5th at 2pm: Pathways to Publication Mystery authors today not only have to write a good book, they must help it get into the hands of readers. Today’s authors have multiple choices to bring their book to life. From getting an agent and a large press offer to deciding to go with a small press or to self-publish, hear how authors decided upon their unique publication path. [Click HERE for more information and to register]. These programs are free of cost, thanks to the generosity of the Friends of the Ipswich Public Library.

As the thermometer drops, it’s a great time to curl up on the couch and watch your favorite movies or TV shows. The Library makes it easy for you to plan a cozy night in with our great Binge Boxes – a box full of movies or TV shows so you can catch up on a series or enjoy a themed box for your own at-home film festival (Hitchcock, horror films, chick flicks, and more…). Check out all of our Binge Boxes in the library catalog at this link, or stop in to see what’s available today! Also make sure to look for our holiday-themed Binge Boxes, just in time to get you in the spirit!