Athol Public Library Launches New Hours and Summer Programs July 1

DATELINE — ATHOL

The Athol Public Library heads into July with a new operating schedule and a packed slate of summer programs, the standout institutional news on an otherwise quiet Tuesday in town.

COMMUNITY & ARTS

New hours take effect at the Athol Public Library beginning Wednesday, July 1. The library has not yet published the full revised schedule on its events page, but residents are encouraged to check athollibrary.org or call (978) 249-9515 before their next visit.

Several summer programs are now open or opening soon. Retro Board Games kicks things off Thursday, July 2, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. — a drop-in-style afternoon for anyone who enjoys classic tabletop play. The following week brings a wave of new offerings: "America is Wild!" is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8 at 5:30 p.m.; the Graphic Novel Club takes up Stepping Stones on Thursday, July 9 at 4:00 p.m.; and an Anime 5E Teen RPG series launches July 9 as well, running select dates through the month — registration is required for that one.

The library's Cosplay Ducks contest opens Tuesday, July 7 and runs through Friday, July 31 at noon, inviting participants to dress up rubber ducks and submit them at the 568 Main Street building.

ELSEWHERE IN THE NEWS

No new coverage from Patch, MetroWest Daily News, or The Boston Globe in this cycle.

COMING UP

- **Thursday, July 2** — Retro Board Games, Athol Public Library, 3:30–5:00 p.m. - **Wednesday, July 1** — New library hours begin; verify updated schedule at athollibrary.org or (978) 249-9515. - **Tuesday, July 7** — Cosplay Ducks submission window opens, Athol Public Library (runs through July 31 at noon). - **Tuesday, July 8** — "America is Wild!" program, Athol Public Library, 5:30 p.m. - **Thursday, July 9** — Graphic Novel Club: Stepping Stones, Athol Public Library, 4:00 p.m. - **Thursday, July 9** — Anime 5E Teen RPG series begins (select dates through July); registration required.