Library News
February 2026 Newsletter
Happy February, Montague,
As we put on our big coats, shovel out our cars, and slog through the coldest, snowiest winter in recent memory, I can think of no better way to end the day than by escaping into a good book. I’m currently reading a novel set in Alsace, France during harvest season--the descriptions of sun-plumped grapes are most welcome! In winters past, I’ve turned to the lush prose of Toni Morrison, the warm characters of TJ Klune, and the rich landscapes of Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s books. What kinds of books make the winter feel less biting for you?
Library staff are meeting the cold with several indoorsy and cozy programs this month. Crafters can make wooly handwarmers in Montague Center and needle-felted hearts at the Carnegie Library. A reception and poetry reading on the Art of the Book and David Detmold’s author talk on his new work, Keeping the People Alive, are both certain to draw robust crowds. Of course, the adults don’t get to have all the fun! Angela has been hard at work, making sure that this school vacation will be one for the books. Over February break, your kiddo’s favorite toy can participate in a stuffed animal sleepover, LEGO club has been expanded to all day on Wednesdays, and on Saturday, 2/21, science students from UMASS will show program participants some of the coolest bugs that they study and answer your insect questions!
Finally, for those who are unaware, I want to acknowledge that at the end of January someone displayed a hate symbol in the Carnegie Library. After the symbol was removed, Library Trustees Chair, Will Quale, and I issued a statement, posted on MPL’s website and social media, stating that such symbols have no place in the Montague Public Libraries and reaffirming our commitment to ensuring that the libraries are safe spaces for people of all backgrounds. This incident hurt my heart, but the outpouring of support and solidarity that we’ve received over the last several days has been truly inspiring. I’m grateful to work in a town where people care so much about their community.
Stay warm out there and happy reading!
Caitlin
To access the February 2026 newsletter as a PDF, click here.