With our Sixth Annual Outdoor Art Exhibit around the corner, we’ve filled our book displays with stories that involve art in some way. Whether it be the biography of an artist, a mystery revolving around a famous painting or statue, or even a story told entirely through images – this is the perfect chance to see how visual art and writing interact and intersect. Pick up a story, do some Artful Reading, and get inspired!
A reminder to all of our young patrons (and their parents):
Whether you’re reading on your own, as part of a book club or reading challenge, or even for an assignment, make sure to check out the Library’s Summer Reading resources! We have 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Book Bags available in the Children’s Room, New Books and 2026 Nutmeg Book Award Nominees displays upstairs, and curated booklists – including Nutmeg nominees and the Governor’s Summer Reading Challenge – on our apps, Hoopla, Libby, and Palace. Happy reading!
Come get spellbound with Fractured Fairy Tales!
Join us on Thursdays, July 10 – August 14, from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, for fun twists on classic fairy tales, along with themed crafts and/or STEM activities. The program is intended for kids ages 2 to 10; each session will feature separate crafts/activities for younger and older participants. Caregivers must remain in the Library while the program is in progress.
July 1st, July 8th, & July 22nd
2:00 – 3:00 PM
Create your own tiny crocheted creature at one of our Amigurumi Workshops this July – no prior experience needed! The workshops are drop-in activities intended for ages 10 and up, but adults are welcome to participate as well! Yarn and other materials, such as stuffing and toy eyes – as well as guidance for those who have not crocheted before – will be provided.
Amigurumi is a type of needlecraft that originated in Japan. It focuses on creating 3D knit or crocheted stuffed toys, which are usually cute and small in size. The word itself is simply a combination of the Japanese words for “knit/crocheted” and “stuffed doll”.
Read by yourself / Read with each other
Read one good book / Then read another
Our new summer storywalk features excerpts from Artful Reading, by Bob Raczka. Take a walk around the Library’s front lawn and you’ll see all kinds of works of art, ranging in time from the 1400’s to the 1960’s, and in style from realism to cubism! But no matter the era or the style, each and every painting tells a story about a reader. Both art lovers and book lovers will enjoy this celebration of “the fine art of reading”.
Right now our themed book displays are packed with cats and dogs, competing to see who’s more popular – and often learning that they have more in common than expected along the way. Whether it’s a kitten or puppy tale you’re looking for, we’re sure to have something you’ll enjoy. Stop by and pick up a story featuring your favorite form of furry friend!
Join us for LEGO Club this summer!
The Club will meet in the Children’s Room on Thursdays, 3:00 – 5:00 PM, starting June 26th. It is a drop-in program open to all ages, but a parent or guardian must be present for participants 12 and under. Both LEGO and DUPLO blocks are available for free-building!
Dragon Eye Adventure is back!
June 18th, 4:00-5:00 PM, & June 21st, 11:00-12:00 PM
Sculpt, decorate, and paint a two-dimensional clay dragon profile, then choose from our special collection of glass dragon eyes to give your sculpture a spark of life!
Ages 7 and up. This is a drop-in activity, but space is limited – arrive on time (or early) to make sure you get a spot! Call the Library at 203-393-2103 for more information.
Our Children’s Room has been transformed for our Summer Reading Program – Spellbound: The Enchantment of Reading! Watch the video below to catch a glimpse of all the “spellbinding” decorations our staff have put together.
The Summer Reading Kickoff will take place June 14th. Stop by to pick up a Summer Reading chart, a Read & Bead necklace chain, and a goodie bag, and keep an eye on the Event Calendar for upcoming activities and programs!
The schedule of our Wednesday Morning Storytime program will be changing slightly going forward – it will now take place from 10:45 – 11:15 PM on Wednesdays. Everything else will stay the same!
This program is for preschool age children, and requires a grownup to be present. Children will enjoy songs, nursery rhymes, puppets, read-aloud stories, and a craft, followed by open playtime and socializing. Prepare your little one for a future of group engagement and give them a chance to make new friends!