Fitchburg Public Library
166 Boulder Dr., Suite 108
Fitchburg, MA 01420
United States
Fitchburg Public Library will host BreakLabs: The Neighbor Method — Munch & Mingle, a free, hybrid (in-person + Zoom) Creative Sector Advocacy Week event. The program is led by educator and researcher Dr. Kenisha Coy (My CARE Initiative / KC³) and introduces a community learning and wellbeing method that treats libraries as information + care infrastructure.
In a time when many people feel stressed, isolated, and discouraged by polarizing public discourse, BreakLabs offers practical tools for “truth without turning on each other.” The hour includes a short performance-lecture (movement + story), an interactive “tight / loose / whole” language tool, and an optional nonpartisan community action: Civic Gratitude + Needs Postcards, where participants write a warm thank-you and one community need (no endorsements/campaigning). Selected postcards may be photographed for a traveling digital arts gallery/narrative quilt with identifying details covered.
“Libraries are some of our most trusted public spaces,” said Coy. “This project is about strengthening community connection and dignity by using story, language tools, and creative practice in a way that’s accessible, low-pressure, and repeatable across cities.”
Quiet, opt-in sharing; no one is required to speak. Sensory-friendly seating available.
Free and open to the public. Light refreshments while supplies last.
Supported in part by the Fitchburg Cultural Council (grant support for BreakStory research development)