5 Things You Need to Know Today: May 30

1. It is said of Fredrick Law Olmsted, America's greatest landscape architect, that he "paints with lakes and wooded slopes; with lawns and banks and forest covered hills; with mountain sides and ocean views." But did you know the creator of New York City's Central Park, Boston's Emerald Necklace, Stanford University's campus and the landscape around the Captiol Building in Washington also helped design the grounds of McLean Hospital on whose campus he died in 1903?

Author Series will present Justin Martin who will speak on his book "Genius of Place: The Life of Frederick Law Olmsted," the amazing story of the pioneering landscape architect of Central Park, who also happened to be a Civil War hero, fervent abolitionist and crusading journalist. All are welcome to attend this free program that begins at 7:30 p.m. at the . Books will be available for sale and signing. The Assembly Room is handicapped accessible.

2. The , Belmont's independent and volunteer-run library, will be open from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Enjoy a great community asset: read a book, let the kids roam the childrens section or play one of the board games. The Benton is at Old Middlesex and Oakley roads.

3. From 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the 's Flett Room across from the Children's Room, Storytime for 1's will be held. The program shares simple stories, songs, finger plays, nursery rhymes, and puppets for walkers and toddlers under 24 months.

4. The 11th Annual Brendan's Home Run 5k walk and run will be held Sunday, June 17, at Belmont High School track. This special Father's Day event is presented by Belmont Savings Bank and The Belmont Dental Group. All proceeds benefit The Brendan Grant Foundation. Register online here. 

5. Duplicate Bridge Club meets from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Beech Street Center at 266 Beech St. Every Wednesday the club holds American Contact Bridge League-sanctioned games. All are welcome to play. Cost is $5. Phone: 339-223-6484 for more information.