Thank you to all who participated!  With your help, we raised $2,638 for library programs and services.

The James Blackstone Memorial Library serves the residents of Branford by providing essential access to information, resources, and unique shared experiences to meet the needs of our community. By making a donation to the library today, you can help support the innovative programming and crucial services we offer that help educate and enrich our community.  Read more…

The Friends of the Blackstone library hosted the delightful fundraising event “Afternoon Tea at Downton Abbey” on January 18th. Everyone who came had a wonderful time – here are some great pictures from the event!

Blackstone Librarian Katy Dillman talks with Jan Doyle, host of BCTV’s Classroom Connections, about the library’s 3D printer – what it is and how the community can use it. Joining them are some of our younger Blackstone Makers, demonstrating the printer and sharing their thoughts. It was a great time!

Visit the Blackstone on January 9, from 5-7 PM, to see demonstrations and get hands-on with the equipment of the MakerLab.  Read more…

Make a Gift

A contribution to our Annual Fund helps provide crucial services and materials to help enrich and educate the Branford community. Every time you donate to the library, you have an impact. You can give a gift in honor of a birthday or holiday, or in memory of a loved one.

• Give online, safely and securely, or download a donation form (PDF) that you can mail in or drop off.
• Make a gift from a Donor Advised Fund, a popular and tax efficient way to give.
• A gift of stock is another great option that allows you to support the Blackstone while enjoying considerable tax benefits.

With a contribution of $125 or more you will join our Leadership Circle.  You’ll be part of a committed group of donors whose gifts enable the Library to provide even more exceptional service and support to the residents of Branford.

Businesses and organizations can join our Leadership Circle, too, and receive the same benefits as an individual, plus receive a certificate acknowledging your organization’s support for the Blackstone Library.

Leave a Legacy

Interested in leaving a legacy? Help strengthen the Blackstone Library in years to come by creating a future gift. Learn about Planned Giving.

Sponsor an Event

Our fundraising events benefit the programs and services we provide and bring new faces into the library in really fun ways, from A Hogwarts Halloween to a mini golf course in the library. See highlights from previous fundraising events here. If you’re interested in sponsoring an upcoming event, contact Tina Strell, Development: 203.488.1441 x 313 or send an email.

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The James Blackstone Memorial Library is supported by the Town of Branford and by private contributions. Less than 1% of Branford taxes support the Blackstone Library, so donor support is critical as we continue to meet and exceed the expectations of our community. Join your friends and neighbors to help enrich and educate your community — make a charitable contribution today.

Thank you for being there for Branford
— and for the Blackstone Library!

Take a peek at this time lapse video (below) of our MakerLab’s 3D Printer in action. This video was filmed and edited by local videographer Rich Pfeifer, and the printer is making a Blackstone Logo medallion which was designed by local engineer Sean McCulloch. We are so impressed at the talents of our community members! Want to learn more about our MakerLab and get involved? CLICK HERE!

The Library is expanding our museum pass accessibility by allowing you to reserve passes up to 30 days in advance and even print certain passes from the comfort of your home – all in an effort of making your planned trip that much easier.
 Read more…

TAB is back with a technological twist as we head full swing into program planning but with Makers in mind. That’s right, the James Blackstone Memorial Library Teen Advisory Board is melding with this summer’s Learning Lab movement by expanding our hands-on offerings through new equipment, editing software and tried and true tools.  It’s time to learn as we go and see how these new technological pieces can be used in new and innovative ways for the community to enjoy. So, if you are interested in sharing your knowledge, learning something new or just want to see what being a Maker is all about head to our next meeting on Tuesday, October 21st! The party gets started at 4pm but runs until 6pm.

To sign up click here.

Families, head to the library on Sat. May 3rd at 2pm to see the ACES Educational Center of the Arts bring Folktales from Around the World to life!

 Read more…

The TeenSpace opens up Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays after school. Come to the library in the afternoon, and take over the auditorium.

Hang with your friends, play board games and cards, draw, make something crafty, or just find a quiet corner to study. Pick your favorite music to play, bring a snack, and have some fun. The space is yours – what will you do?