Library Launches Free Summer Lunch Program for Kids

The Athol Public Library kicked off a busy stretch of summer programming this week, including a free lunch initiative for kids, a duck-themed contest, and new operating hours that took effect July 1.

COMMUNITY & ARTS

The Athol Public Library is offering free lunches for anyone 0 to 18 years old from July 7 through August 7, 2026, giving local families a resource during the summer months.

The library is also hosting a lineup of hands-on events in the coming weeks. A beaded bracelets craft session is set for Thursday, July 30, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., and a book discussion group will meet Thursday, July 16, at 5 p.m. to talk about a book that was found in a local "little free library." Registration is required for a new escape room challenge, "Escape From the Terrible Thicket," which will run in multiple sessions July 22 and 23.

The library is also running a lighthearted community contest called "Cosplay Ducks!," inviting residents to submit decorated rubber ducks from Tuesday, July 7, through Friday, July 31, at noon. Also notable: the library's new operating hours took effect July 1, though specific new hours were not detailed in the announcement beyond the library's standard posted schedule.

COMING UP

The Athol Public Library will host a book discussion on Thursday, July 16, at 5 p.m., covering a book discovered in a little free library. The library's duck submission contest runs through Friday, July 31, at noon. An escape room event, "Escape From the Terrible Thicket," takes place July 22 and 23 with multiple sessions and registration required. A beaded bracelets craft program is scheduled for Thursday, July 30, from 3:30 to 5 p.m.