Good morning, Hopkinton! Welcome to the daily update we call Hopkinton Today — a quick recap of yesterday’s news, highlights of what’s on tap, and a photo of the day.

HPL partners with animal shelters to offer dog-themed events, fine forgiveness 

The dog days of summer will hit the Hopkinton Public Library next month.

The HPL has teamed up with Brown Dog Coalition and Baypath Humane Society to bring residents programs and other offerings throughout the month of August. Chief among them is a fine forgiveness program that forgives overdue library fines as long as patrons donate to either animal shelter.

According to reference and technology supervisor Danielle Wolber, items must be overdue for more than a year. “If they donate to a shelter … then we’ll forgive their bills and they can use the library,” she said.

“We’re trying to welcome folks who have been away from the library back to the library,” Wolber added.

The HPL also has a number of dog-themed events planned throughout August. Programs include a talk about the basics of dog behavior, multiple opportunities to make pet-friendly crafts and even a chance for adults to snuggle a therapy dog. Wolber characterized the month of programming as a way of “celebrating our pets and celebrating the furry family members in our lives.”

Wolber explained that the fine forgiveness program was inspired by a similar program offered by the Worcester Public Library last year. She also noted that the theme fit with her own passion for animals.

“It’s a fun theme for August because I like dogs, and nobody stopped me,” Wolber joked.

More information on the HPL’s fine forgiveness program and dog-themed programming for August can be found on the library’s website. Those interested in learning more about Baypath Humane Society and Brown Dog Coalition, including how to donate, can visit their websites.

Latest News

Hopkinton Police are investigating an attempted check fraud reported by the town treasurer earlier this week.

This week’s Police Log features one arrest, along with reports of speeding jet skis on Lake Maspenock, an argument in a vehicle and youths yelling outside CVS.

John Deignan, 67, of Hopkinton passed away on July 21.

Photo of the Day

A Japanese beetle hangs out on a plant at the State Park recently.

PHOTO/AMIT JAGDALE