What an awesome summer it’s been! A huge shoutout to everyone who joined in the fun, read amazing books, and took part in our activities — you made this year’s summer program unforgettable!
Shirefest 2025
What an epic quest through the ages it was! On August 16, 2025, heroes, royals, and magical creatures of all kinds gathered at the T.L. Storer Campground in Barnstead for an unforgettable Renaissance Faire. In partnership with Barnstead’s Oscar Foss Memorial Library and the Epsom Public Library, the Chesley Memorial Library helped bring history and fantasy to life with live music, food and craft vendors, games, activities, and so much more! A huge thank you to everyone who came out, dressed up, and made Shirefest a magical success. Your excitement and creativity made the day truly legendary — dragons, knights, and all! We can’t wait to see you on our next adventure!
Summer 2025 Programs
A huge thank-you to everyone who joined us for our exciting summer events at the library! From brain-teasing challenges to hands-on creativity, every week brought something new to explore — and it was all made better by you!
We kicked things off with Guessing Games, where patrons tested their intuition with mystery jars and sensory surprises. Next, puzzlers faced off in our Puzzle Races, racing the clock (and each other!) to piece together the fastest finish. Our Crafternoon was a hit with Shirefest-bound creators, who crafted flower crowns, cardboard armor, and more to prepare for their grand adventures. Then came a sugary twist, when the library transformed into Life-Sized Candy Land, turning readers into real-life game pieces on a colorful, candy-themed quest! Finally, brave teams took on our Library Escape Room, solving riddles and unlocking clues in a thrilling race against time.
Thank you to all our participants who helped make each event a success. Your enthusiasm brought every activity to life and we will see you next summer!
We kicked things off with Guessing Games, where patrons tested their intuition with mystery jars and sensory surprises. Next, puzzlers faced off in our Puzzle Races, racing the clock (and each other!) to piece together the fastest finish. Our Crafternoon was a hit with Shirefest-bound creators, who crafted flower crowns, cardboard armor, and more to prepare for their grand adventures. Then came a sugary twist, when the library transformed into Life-Sized Candy Land, turning readers into real-life game pieces on a colorful, candy-themed quest! Finally, brave teams took on our Library Escape Room, solving riddles and unlocking clues in a thrilling race against time.
Thank you to all our participants who helped make each event a success. Your enthusiasm brought every activity to life and we will see you next summer!
