Waltham Public Library Transforms Into Monster Classic This Summer

WALTHAM, MA – Frankenstein's monster comes alive at Waltham Public Library this summer. The Mary Shelley classic has been selected as this year's Watch Read Listen story and will be available in multiple formats, in addition to related programming that immerses the reader in its world.

The library interior will be decorated with vignettes from the book, including a recreation of Dr. Frankenstein's lab. Families will have the opportunity to don lab gear and participate in hands-on activities or check out the live animals, puppet shows, music, crafts and ice cream. Adults can stop by and learn more about the story, its author, making "Frankenfoods," the perception of the monster today and the history of media and arctic exploration.

"Frankenstein is a terrific and moving story, written by a woman many call the “mother of modern day science-fiction," Library Director Kelly Linehan said in a statement. "In choosing this story, a classic people are familiar with but may not have had a chance to read, it gives us an opportunity to experience it as a community. I knew it would be tough to top our inaugural year with The Jungle Book. However, the creative and innovative Library team have outdone themselves for Frankenstein. I cannot wait to show off what we’ve 'created' for the community!"

Last year, more than 650 people participated in Watch Read Listen as the library transformed into the world of Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book" and grew a jungle tree by signing leaves as a community art event. This year, participants will write their names on raindrops to bring to life the storm that creates Frankenstein's monster.

Watch Read Listen runs from Saturday, June 24 through Saturday, August 19 at the Waltham Public Library. A kickoff fundraiser for adults will be held Friday, June 16 at 6:30 p.m. Funds raised through ticket sales, sponsorships, donations and a silent auction will go toward providing free programs to the community.

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