Happy summer! We have some exciting programs for all ages this summer. Special summer programs are featured in the attachment and our regular programs are listed below. Please reach out to us if you have any questions. A pdf copy of this newsletter is attached for your convenience.
First, a huge shout out to the Friends of the Roswell Library. Each year, they sponsor most of our summer programs - they provide the funds for special performers, programs, and prizes and also provide some of the fun summer reading t-shirts you see staff wearing throughout the summer. We are grateful for the Friends and the many ways they support the Fulton County Library System.
INTRODUCING AMIE COLEMAN, NEW YOUTH SERVICES LIBRARIAN!
We are very excited to introduce our new Youth Services Librarian, Amie Coleman. Amie just moved to Roswell from Wichita, KS. She has lots of experience in Kansas libraries and is looking forward to getting to know our wonderful community here in Roswell. Stay tuned for updates regarding youth programs because she has a lot of wonderful ideas!
ALL LIBRARIES WILL BE CLOSED FRIDAY, JUNE 19
All Fulton County Libraries will be closed Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Learn more about this important holiday by visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture website.
JUNETEENTH! AFRICAN AMERICAN GULLAH STORIES WITH PATRICIA CARRINGTON
Juneteenth! African American Gullah Stories with Patricia Carrington
Monday, June 15. 3:00-4:00 p.m.
We will celebrate and honor Juneteenth with a special re-telling of Gullah stories by local author Patricia Carrington. Ms. Carrington will read and tell the stories “Abel an de Guinea-Fowl” and “Creation”. These are in her book Black Genesis: A Retake.
Patricia Carrington is an emerging author whose work is rooted in the preservation and retelling of African American Gullah stories, tracing their origins to the lives and legacy of enslaved Africans. Her writing reflects a deep commitment to honoring history, culture, and ancestral voices, while weaving in personal connections from her own family lineage.
ROSWELL READS PRESENTS AUTHOR LISA SEE!
Saturday, June 20. 5:00 p.m.
Saint Luke’s Presbyterian Church, 1978 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody
Popular bestselling author Lisa See will talk about her new release, Daughters of the Sun and Moon. Scheduled for release on
June 9, Daughters of the Sun and Moon “draws on the vibrancy and turmoil of post-Civil War Los Angeles to tell the story of three Chinese women who managed to survive and, eventually, thrive, despite all odds.”
Purchase your tickets early because this program is expected to sell out quickly. Tickets (including handling fees) are $23.50 for the presentation only or $49.25 for VIP tickets for admission, an autographed and personalized hardback copy of the book, reserved seating for the first 80 purchasers and a photo with the author. Click here to purchase your tickets: Roswell Reads.
YEAR OF THE BOOK
The Fulton County Library System is pleased to announce a year long celebration of books and reading, The Year of the Book. Each month, libraries will feature special displays and programs to promote different themes. You’ll see extra displays around the library celebrating books.
Be sure to log into Beanstack to sign up for this program and log your books. Create an account or log in here:Beanstack. The Roswell Library is offering a variety of fun prizes throughout the year.
SUMMER READING BEGINS JUNE 1
Can you believe it’s time for summer reading? Be sure to log in or create an account on Beanstack. Registration began May 1 and participation begins June 1. Sign up early so you can jump right into it beginning June 1. Select Roswell as your branch and Summer 2026: Unearth a Story as your program. We’ll have fun prizes throughout the summer. Special thanks to the Friends of the Roswell Library for sponsoring our summer reading prizes.
While supplies last, we will give away tote bags and other fun things when you show us your Beanstack registration badge. And remember, summer reading is for ALL ages and we believe listening is just as important as reading!
ONE BOOK ONE READ
One Book, One Read Author Event: Jason Rekulak in Conversation with Karyn Greer
Saturday, September 19, 11:00 a.m. at the Central Library
One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta, GA 30303
Join the Fulton County Library System for a special author event celebrating our 2026 One Book, One Read selection, The Last One at the Wedding by bestselling author Jason Rekulak. This also happens to be the Mystery Book Club selection for May!
This annual countywide reading initiative invites residents across Fulton County to read the same book and connect through shared stories and conversations. This year’s selection, The Last One at the Wedding, is a gripping suspense novel that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
Jason Rekulak will speak at the Central Library for a live conversation about the novel, moderated by Karyn Greer, award-winning journalist and anchor for Channel 2 Action News. Learn more here: One Book One Read.
INDOOR ROCK GARDEN
Our indoor rock garden features a winter-to-spring theme and rocks that celebrate the season. We hope you will take a moment and stop by, take a look, and take a rock or leave a rock. We always welcome your painted rocks. Be sure to sign up for our monthly rock painting class. Details are below.
SEED LIBRARY
Our Seed Library continues to be very popular. Patrons may check out up to 5 packets of different seeds per family, per month. No library card is required, but we do ask that you “sign out” what you take. There are some guidelines to follow and these are posted next to the Seed Library. If you have any questions, please reach out to Kimberly Hilsee,kimberly.hilsee@fultoncountyga.gov. Kimberly and Fouzia are now in charge of this popular program.
Each month, Fouzia creates a special display around a theme and creates seed packets related to that theme. June’s theme is “Seed to Sauce” Get these quickly because these fun seed packets don’t last long!
Many thanks to the Friends of the Roswell Library for sponsoring the Seed Library.
FOR CHILDREN
New Books
If you’re interested in seeing some of our new titles, click the links below to see a list of what’s available right now at the Roswell Library.
Baby Play Time
Wednesdays, June 3, 10, 17. 10:30-11:00 a.m.
Bring your little one to the Roswell Library for singing, bouncing, reading, and play, specially catered towards babies 18 months and younger. Ages 0-18 Months. Caretakers must remain with babies during the program. Sponsored by the Friends of the Roswell Library.
Please note: On Wednesday, June 24 there will be a special program for little ones at 11:00 a.m. featuring “The Bubble Show and Party.” Fun!
Thursday Story Times
Thursdays, June 4 and 25. 10:30 a.m.
Join us every Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m. (unless otherwise noted) for a wonderful program of songs and stories. Many thanks to volunteer Miss Peggy for leading our story times. Miss Peggy and Amie will share story times so you will get the best of both of these talented ladies.
Please note we will have special programs on Thursday, June 11 at 11:00 a.m. featuring Fiddlin’ Dan and on Thursday, June 18 at 11:00 a.m. featuring Miss Gail’s Jumpin’ Jam Band.
Hooked on Loops Crochet Club
Hooked on Loops will return after the summer. Please see the tween/teen jewelry-making class below, Wearable Works.
BiLingual Story Time
Monday, June 8. 10:30-11:00 a.m.
Join us for BiLingual Story Time once a month. Learn some basic phrases while having fun with music, movement, and stories. Perfect for toddlers through early elementary, but all ages are welcome. Caregivers must remain with children during the program. This popular program is sponsored by the Friends of the Roswell Library.
Wearable Works: Make Your Own Charm Bracelet
Friday, June 12. 2:00 p.m.
Make friends with other teens and in the process design something unique to wear and show off to your old friends. Miss Rania will lead this fun jewelry workshop. All materials and supplies will be provided. This program is for teens and tweens. Thanks to the Friends of the Roswell Library for generously donating supplies. Registration is open now.Click here to register.
Toddler Playtime
Mondays, June 15, 22, and 29. 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Come play at the Roswell Library! We have plenty of toys to play with and share during this open play hour in the Kids Area. Please note this is a self-supervised program. Staff will be checking in periodically, but not remaining throughout the program. Ages 18 months-5 years.
Kids Art Class with Ms. Lara
Tuesday, June 16. 4:00-5:30 p.m.
Join Ms. Lara and learn how to create art using different techniques! Registration is required. Click here to register:Art Class with Ms. Lara. If registration is full, be sure to join the waiting list in case someone cancels. Ages 6-8. Caregivers must remain with children during this program. Due to a new system-wide policy, parents must sign a waiver for participation in this program. Sponsored by the Friends of the Roswell Library.
Yoga for Kids
Saturday, June 20. 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Dr. Ashley DeLuccia leads our yoga classes for children on the third Saturday of each month. This program will be in the classroom. Parents are asked to remain in the room during class and are encouraged to participate. Due to a new system-wide policy, parents must sign a waiver for participation in this program. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Roswell Library.
Reminder: Participants are welcome to bring their own mat. Please wear comfortable (not too loose) clothing and bring a water bottle. It is best not to eat 1 to 2 hours before class. This program is for ages 5 - 11. Modifications will be offered for limited mobility.
Displays
The Children’s Department is featuring a great selection of rotating displays as you enter the department. For starters, we always feature a selection of Book Bundles: a few picture books about a certain theme (family, farm, etc.) are preselected for you to check out. This display is on top of the shelves above the Easy Books.
We will also feature books about dinosaurs, Father’s Day, Juneteenth and other topics.
FOR TEENS
New Books
If you’re interested in seeing some of our new titles, click the links below to see a list of what’s available right now at the Roswell Library.
Wearable Works: Make Your Own Charm Bracelet
Friday, June 12. 2:00 p.m.
Make friends with other teens and in the process design something unique to wear and show off to your old friends. Miss Rania will lead this fun jewelry workshop. All materials and supplies will be provided. This program is for teens and tweens. Thanks to the Friends of the Roswell Library for generously donating supplies. Registration is open now.Click here to register.
Displays
The Teen area features a variety of fun books on display.
FOR ADULTS
New Books
If you’re interested in seeing some of our new titles, click the links below to see a list of what’s available right now at the Roswell Library.
SHIP Medicare Information Sessions
Tuesday, June 2. 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Are you baffled by all the information about Medicare and various “advantage” plans? A representative from Georgia’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program will be here on the first Tuesday of every month between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to speak individually with Medicare recipients and answer their questions. Appointments are required and each session lasts about one hour. Please call the branch at 404.612.9700 to make a reservation.
Learn Spanish in Six Weeks with Jay Zager
Saturdays, June 6, 13, 20, and 27. 12:30-1:15 p.m.
“Aprender Español: Zero to Fluent in 6 Weeks” is a fun and easy approach to learning Spanish designed for beginners. Through six 45-minute workshops, participants will build confidence speaking Spanish in a relaxed, supportive environment—no textbooks, no tests, and no pressure. This interactive series focuses on practical language skills, making learning Spanish engaging, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.
Please note: You must register for each class. Click here to register for the June 6 session.
Art Class with Sharon Crumley
Tuesday, June 9. 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Registration opens day of week, June 1 at 10:00 a.m. Click here to register: Art with Sharon Crumley. You will see a link to register on the upper right side of the post. These classes fill up quickly, but be sure to join the waiting list. There are often cancellations a few days before the art class. Many thanks to the Friends of the Roswell Library for sponsoring these popular classes.
Shell Painting
Thursday, June 25. 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Our rock garden has proven to be very popular! For summer, we are changing things up a bit and offering shell painting instead of rock painting in June. Join us for an enjoyable experience full of creativity and connection to others while painting rocks. You will have the opportunity to decorate one rock for yourself, and the remaining rocks painted during the program will be planted in our rock garden. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required and begins June 1. Please click here to register: Rock Painting at Roswell. Sponsored by the Friends of the Roswell Library.
Coffee & Conversation … Brain Health and Dementia
Friday, June 26. 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Join us Fridays for coffee & open conversation about brain health and dementia. Please bring any questions or concerns to this one hour of dialogue & connection. Teacher & author Gerry Roth with Beyond Dementia Coalition & Alzheimer’s Association will facilitate the conversations.
Gardens of the Master Gardeners
Friday, June 26. 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Join Master Gardener Sandra as she showcases landscaping plants that are unique and how some Master Gardeners have used them in their landscaping. Sandra focuses on unique plants that may be new to you and how they can be used in your garden. There will be a presentation & opportunities to ask questions. Registration is required and is now open. Click here to register: Gardens.
Book Clubs
We hope to see you at one of our book clubs in June. New members are always welcome. To join the mailing list for one or all of the book clubs, please send an email to roswell.branch@fultoncountyga.gov. Let us know which email list you’d like to join and we’ll sign you up right away.
Midday Book Club (virtual only)
Friday, June 12 at 11:00 a.m. - The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston
*Noonday Nosh Book Club (virtual and in person)
Tuesday, June 16 at 12:15 p.m. - How to Read a Book by Monica Wood
*The new start time for Noonday Nosh is 12:15 p.m.
Mystery Book Club (virtual only)
Tuesday, June 23 at 6:30 p.m. - The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
Non-Fiction Friday Book Club (virtual and in person)
Friday, June 26 at 2:00 p.m. - The Wager by David Grann
ESL Classes
Tuesday Mornings - ESL for Beginners
Tuesdays. 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
ESL is taking a break for the summer and will return in early August.
Regular Yoga and Chair Yoga Classes
Chair Yoga, Wednesdays. 1:30 p.m.
Regular Yoga, Wednesdays. 3:00 p.m.
The benefits of yoga are endless: less stress, peace of mind, better movement, better breathing and more. Our Wednesday yoga classes with Mary Veal are popular, but there’s still room for you to join us. No registration is required, just wear comfortable clothes, bring a towel or yoga mat and have a good time. Many thanks to the Friends of the Roswell Library for sponsoring these classes. Due to a new system-wide policy, participants must sign a waiver to participate in this program.
Needlecrafters
Thursdays. 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Do you knit, crochet, embroider or practice another needle craft? Each week, needlecrafters meet-up and work on their own projects. Bring your own supplies and skills, there’s no instruction provided. Warning: be prepared to laugh and have a good time!
Displays
In June, we will celebrate the summer reading theme Unearth a Story with books about dinosaurs, gardening, archaeology and a host of other fun themes. We will also highlight Juneteenth, Gullah culture and history, beach reads, African American Music Month, the great outdoors and great hikes/walks, American composers, and more. We are looking forward to July, as well, and celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
The Seed Library theme is “Seed to Sauce”, featuring selected seeds to grow the ingredients for some favorite sauces. These seed packets are very popular, so come in early to get one while quantities last.
