Needle Arts

Enjoy the friendly camaraderie of your fellow artisans and join us on Wednesday mornings! Beginners are welcome. Knit, crochet, embroider, quilt -- all kinds of needle craft.

No registration necessary.

Courtly Intrigue and Whispers as Weapons with Historical Fiction Queen Philippa Gregory

Coined as the “queen of British historical fiction,” Philippa Gregory returns to the infamous Tudor court with a tale that is both timely and timeless. We invite you to sit down with us for an intriguing conversation with Gregory about her newest novel Boleyn Traitor (forthcoming October 14, 2025). 

Jane Boleyn watches from the shadows of the Tudor court, where secrets are currency, every choice is dangerous, and even the faintest whisper can seal the fate of queens.

For Jane, survival demands playing every role required of her: a loving wife who conceals her doubts, a devoted sister to Anne Boleyn at the height of her power, and an obedient spy who carefully wields her words. But in a court ruled by ambition and a tyrant’s sword, Jane must rely on her sharp wit and skillful maneuvering to outthink those around her, knowing that one wrong move could cost her everything. 

With a rich tapestry of new historical insights and lyrical language honed over decades of writing, Gregory's return to the Tudors is a new definition of this most fascinating era. As the world becomes more extreme and unpredictable, Jane’s story of survival and ingenuity offers a

compelling parallel, serving as both a powerful historical narrative and an echo of the challenges we face. This is a riveting tale of loyalty and betrayal, ambition and love—one that should not be missed by readers this fall.

Register today for this exciting glimpse into the perilous 16th century royal court!

About the Author: Dr. Philippa Gregory is one of the world’s foremost historical novelists. She wrote her first ever novel, Wideacre, when she was completing her PhD in eighteenth-century literature and it sold worldwide, heralding a new era for historical fiction. Her flair for blending history and imagination developed into a signature style and Philippa went on to write many bestselling novels, including The Other Boleyn Girl and The White Queen. 

Dr. Gregory studied history at the University of Sussex and was awarded a PhD by the University of Edinburgh where she is a Regent and was made Alumna of the Year in 2009. She holds an honorary degree from Teesside University, and is a fellow of the Universities of Sussex and Cardiff. Philippa is a member of the Society of Authors and in 2016, was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Historical Fiction Award by the Historical Writers’ Association. In 2018, she was awarded an Honorary Platinum Award by Neilsen for achieving significant lifetime sales across her entire book output. In 2021, she was awarded a CBE for services to literature and to her charity Gardens for the Gambia, and was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.

Costume Bowties and Books

Put on a costume for today's special Bowties and Books! Then, join us for songs, stories, and silliness!

This program is recommended for ages 6 months to 4 years with a parent or caregiver.

Registration is not required.

Click Here to access the Spotify Playlist!

Book Bedazzling for TEENS

Join us for this fun and relaxing activity that will awaken your creative side. Put some pride behind your favorite book by BEDAZZLING the cover with rhinestones. Think diamond art, but where the book cover is your canvas. 

You may bring your own special book, or grab one from our book sale.

All other materials provided.