The Fiske Public Library has a full schedule of programs planned for October, including Halloween activities, author talks, historical presentations and workshops for children and adults. The library will be closed Monday, Oct. 12, for Indigenous Peoples' Day and Columbus Day. Visit fiskelib.org for a list of all programs, and to register.

Halloween Events for Kids and Families

The library's annual Halloween Costume Swap returns this month. Gently used, clean children's costumes may be donated through Oct. 2. Beginning Saturday, Oct. 3, families may "shop" for new-to-you costumes throughout October while supplies last.

Children and teens are also invited to participate in the Book Character Pumpkin Decorating Contest, Oct. 16-24. Participants may decorate a real or artificial pumpkin or gourd as a book character; real pumpkins may not be carved or punctured. Entries should be brought to the library Oct. 16-19, with voting beginning Oct. 20. The winner, who will receive a Halloween gift basket, will be announced Oct. 26.

On Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 6 to 7 p.m., magician Mike Bent will present his Spooky Kooky Halloween Magic Show for children of all ages and families. Registration begins Oct. 14. On Halloween, Saturday, Oct. 31, from 1 to 3 p.m., the library will show a PG-rated family Halloween movie and offer crafts. Costumes are encouraged but optional.

Special Programs for Adults

Local author Judy DePue will discuss her memoir, "Lady Vagabond," on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The book recounts DePue's round-the-world journey beginning in 1978 and her exploration of identity, independence and belonging. Registration is available at fiskelib.org.

The Fiske Library Foundation's Revolution 250 Speaker Series continues Thursday, Oct. 8, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., with "Perukes, Powder, Politics, and Patriots: Men's Hair and Wigs in 18th-century England and America." Living history interpreter and wig maker Audrey Stuck-Girard will demonstrate historical hair and wig styles and techniques.

A Skull Painting Workshop will be held Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., led by Mandy Roberge of Wicked Good Henna. The program is limited to 15 adults and requires registration. A Tiny Book Ornament Workshop follows Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 6:30-8 p.m. Materials are provided and registration is required.

On Thursday, Oct. 29, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., journalist and author Ted Reinstein will present "Greetings from Breed's Hill: Fact & Folklore for America's 250th." The program will explore lesser-known angles on Revolutionary War stories, including Paul Revere's ride, the Battle of Breed's Hill and the rivalry between Concord and Lexington. The program is sponsored by the Fiske Library Foundation as part of its Revolution 250 Speaker Series.