Ever wonder how many people visit the Library each year, how many items are borrowed, or even how many items the library has altogether? Consider your questions answered, here’s a numerical look at Cheshire Library for the past year:
Libraries
The Magic of Mindfulness and Meditation
This post comes to us from our Head of Adult Services, Bill:
“Slow down, you move too fast You got to make the morning last Just kicking down the cobblestones Looking for fun and feelin’ groovy” ~ from The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy) by Paul Simon (1966)
Our world in 2020 indeed moves too fast for many of us! This can have negative effects on our mental and physical well-being. What can we do to counteract these negative effects? Maybe try a little mindfulness…
Mindfulness is a form of meditation and its magic comes in the form of improved concentration and happiness, and physiological improvements that often include lower heart and blood pressure rates. It can also reduce stress and chronic pain as well as improve sleep.
A few years ago, Forbes Magazine published and article detailing 6 Scientifically Proven Benefits Of Mindfulness And Meditation:
- Mindfulness reduces anxiety
- Mindfulness meditation reduces implicit age and race bias
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) may prevent and treat depression
- Mindfulness meditation helps increase body satisfaction
- Mindfulness meditation improves cognition
- Mindfulness meditation helps the brain reduce distractions
Though the practices of mindfulness and meditation have been around for centuries, the science behind it has only recently become more understood. Health practitioners, and even the business world, have begun taking the concept of mindfulness quite seriously as more and more evidence comes to light on how the practice can actually change the “wiring” of our brains.
Want to learn more about the practice of mindfulness and what it can do for you? This month Cheshire Library is presenting a 3-part Mindfulness Series:
- Intro to Meditation, Monday. March 16, 2:00 p.m.
- Nature as Mentor, Wednesday, March 18, 6:30 p.m.
- Sound Healing Bath, Wednesday, March 25, 6:00pm
Check out these books for even more information:
Mindfulness and Meditation : Your Questions Answered by Blaise Aguirre
Aware : The Science and Practice of Presence by Daniel J. Siegel, M.D
Bliss More : How to Succeed in Meditation Without Really Trying by Light Watkins
Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics by Dan Harris and Jeff Warren, with Carlye Adler
What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in March
You know what they say about March, it comes in like a lion & goes out like a lamb. No matter the weather, you might say we’ve got a “menagerie” of programs to entertain, educate, and inspire you this month!
Author Talk: The Pledge of Allegiance and the Star Spangled Banner
Tuesday, March 3, 2020, 6:30 – 8:00pm
Cheshire resident, John White, will discuss his book, The Pledge of Allegiance & the Star-Spangled Banner: A Patriot’s Primer on the American Spirit and a Citizen’s Guide to Restoring the Republic, which deals with the essence of America—its principles, ideals and values, its history, its future. Registration is required.
New Movie Thursday – Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019)
Thursday, March 5, 2020, 6:00 – 8:00pm
Tom Hanks portrays Mister Rogers in a timely story of kindness triumphing over cynicism, based on the true story of a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and journalist Tom Junod. After a jaded magazine writer is assigned a profile of Fred Rogers, he overcomes his skepticism, learning about kindness, love and forgiveness from America’s most beloved neighbor. Rated PG. Registration appreciated for this adult program.
Abilities Without Boundaries All Star Band
Saturday, March 7, 2020, 2:00 – 3:00pm
Join us for this open house concert with Abilities Without Boundaries All Star Band. Cheshire musician John Ingrassia will lead the All Star Band for their debut performance. John hosts his music therapy class “Music Matters” for Abilities Without Boundaries and has assembled an all star band to perform around the area. No registration required.
From Jazz to Soul with Rhonda Denet and her trio
Sunday, March 8, 2020, 2:00 – 3:15pm
Rhonda Denet and her trio were the most popular concert we had last year, so we are bringing them back for “part 2” of From Jazz to Soul! They will perform jazz and soul standards from the 1930s through the 1960s, paying tribute to song stylists from Ella Fitzgerald to Aretha Franklin. No registration required.
Ogham Celtic Alphabet
Tuesday, March 10, 2020, 6:30 – 8:00pm
Colleen Conway, co-owner and artist of Ogham Art in Southington, will discuss “The Ogham Alphabet: Past & Present”. Represented as a series of perpendicular and intersecting lines, Ogham is the earliest written form of primitive Irish and the oldest of the Gaelic languages. It is thought to be influenced by the Latin alphabet using 20 characters. Registration is required.
Introduction to Gmail
Wednesday, March 11, 2020, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Learn the fundamentals of Gmail; set up an account,learn to compose and send an email. Must be familiar with basic computer knowledge. Registration is required.
Starting Plants from Seed
Saturday, March 14, 2020, 2:00 – 4:00pm
This event, geared to the home gardener, includes: unique method of pre-sprouting large seeds; making pots from newspapers; using found materials for plant markers and mini greenhouses to start small seeds; proper watering and fertilizing; hardening off of plants; and catalogs where heirloom, rare or exotic seeds can be found. Registration is required.
Irish Music with Deirdre McMorrow and Paul Pender
Sunday, March 15, 2020, 2:00 – 3:00pm
Enchanting traditional Irish fiddler, Deirdre McMorrow, and guitarist/songwriter, Paul Pender, will energize every Irish native—and those who turn Irish for St. Patrick’s Day– in a concert of traditional and original Celtic songs. No registration required.
Intro to Meditation Workshop
Monday, March 16, 2020, 2:00 – 3:30pm
Presenter Tia Mandrozos will explain what meditation is and its positive effects—the many ways that meditating bestows benefits on those who practice it regularly. Tia will also lead a 15 minute guided meditation. Registration is required.
Irish Dancing Through the Ages
Wednesday, March 18, 2020, 4:00 – 5:00pm
A program on “Irish Dancing Through the Ages” will be presented by Irene Horgan, Ph.D., Director of Cheshire’s Horgan Academy of Irish Dance. Geared for all ages, the program will include demonstations by Horgan Academy dancers. All attendees will be invited to learn a popular Irish dance step! No registration required.
Nature as Mentor
Wednesday, March 18, 2020, 6:30 – 8:00pm
Learn the magnificent language of nature in this powerful workshop with Marlow Shami, M.S., who will present an informative talk enhanced by beautiful illustrations, a compelling activity, and a deep relaxing guided meditation. No meditation experience necessary. Registration is required.
Spring Canal Walk @ Lock 12 Park
Thursday, March 19, 2020, 4:00 – 4:45pm
Celebrate the first day of spring with a story and a stroll along the Farmington Canal Trail here in town! We’ll meet at Lock 12 Historical Park, 487 North Brooksvale Road, and explore the changing seasons on foot. Best for ages 5 and up. Registration is appreciated.
Sound Healing Bath
Wednesday, March 25, 2020, 6:00 – 8:00pm
Join Donatella Moltisanti, internationally renown Sound Healer, for an evening of transformational Soul Healing! Donatella will discuss how music can heal the body and take us to new levels of awareness and peace, then guide participants through an hour-long sound healing journey. Registration is required.
Poetry in Song: A Cheshire High School Choral Concert
Friday, March 27, 2020, 12:00 – 1:00pm
The Cheshire High School chorus is going on the road ! Please join us for this special noon-time concert featuring the Cheshire High School chorus. The chorus will be performing choral works by Lauridsen, Stroope, Lauridsen, Whitacre and more, featuring poetry by James Agee, Robert Burns, Robert Frost, Lewis Carroll, Rudyard Kipling and others. No registration required.
What’s Happening (Virtually) at Cheshire Library in March
We’re Marching on (yes, we did go there) with a month of engaging, enriching, and entertaining virtual programs. Mark your calendars and sign up while there are still spots open!
March Teen Volunteering Challenges
Earn community service hours by submitting a photo, video, or other content that may be added to CPL’s social media pages! Each submission will be awarded 2 community service hours. March’s challenges include:
- Art: Will March come in like a lion and go out like a lamb? Draw your favorite animal.
- Writing: Write a story, poem, or essay about luck. It could be good, bad, or a bit of both!
- Food: March 10th is National Oreo Cookie Day, so bake or make something awesome with Oreos!
- Reading: Pick a book you’ve read and loved, and make a bookmark inspired by it.
- More Reading: For Women’s History Month, read a nonfiction book about an accomplished woman you’ve never heard of.
- Even More Reading: Think about your favorite book character- and choose a book you think that character would like to read!
If you participate in the challenges, earn community service credit by submitting your creations so we can share them on our social media pages
Book Buzz Teen Book Club: The Radium Girls
All month long
This month we are going to read The Radium Girls by Kate Moore. Register starting March 2 to pick up your copy of the book in the Children’s Room, then join us on our Google Classroom page to share and hear our different points of view about the book! (This book discussion group will be available all month -and beyond- and you can interact with us and post your thoughts any time that’s convenient for you.) For grades 6-12.
- Week of March 1: Sock Puppet (Ages 3-6)
- Week of March 8: Japanese Candy Kits (Grades 6-12)
- Week of March 15: Potpourri Squares (Ages 7+)
- Week of March 22: Magic Blooming Flowers (Grades K-6)
Make something at your own pace this week with a Take + Make kit! We have kits for kids in every age group this month, and registration is required to pick up a kit in the Children’s Room each week. We have a limited number of materials and the kits get reserved very quickly, so please register early and limit to one kit per child.
Food Explorers
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Monday, March 8, 6:00 – 7:00pm
- Southwest Taquitos: Monday,March 22, 6:00 – 7:00pm
Join a Registered Dietitian from Food Explorers to make Chocolate Cheesecake Egg Rolls and Loaded Veggie Tot Nachos! Ingredients are listed on our Event Calender. For kids ages 6-12. Please register for these virtual events and you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
Preschool Storytime
Tuesdays, March 9 – April 6, 2021, 10:00 – 11:00am
A virtual storytime for preschoolers (and their grown-ups!) to learn through talking, singing, reading, writing,and playing! Best for children ages 3-5. Younger and older siblings are welcome. Registration required. This program meets five times: March 9, 16, 23, & 30 and April 6. Register once to attend all five sessions. Registered participants will receive a Zoom link 1 hour before the beginning of each session.
Connecticut in Motion
Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 2:00pm – 3:30pm
This overview of 400 years of transportation developments in Connecticut, from the colonial era through the present day, focuses on the privately owned railroads and trollies of the nineteenth century and the publicly operated interstate and express highways of the twentieth. Please register for this virtual event and you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
College Admissions in the Time of COVID-19
Wednesday, March 10, 2021, 6:45 – 7:45pm
Learn how COVID-19 is changing the college admissions landscape and how it will affect Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors. This program covers how admissions officers are handling the current situation and how students can position themselves to develop a compelling narrative to increase their chances for admission. Please register for this virtual event and you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
Toddler Storytime
Thursdays, March 11 – April 8, 2021, 10:00 – 10:30am
A virtual storytime for toddlers and their caregivers, with interactive songs, stories, and other fun activities. Best for children ages 1-3. Younger and older siblings are welcome. This program meets five times: March 11, 18, 25, and April 1 and 8. Registration required. Register once to attend all sessions. You will receive a Zoom link one hour before the beginning of each program.
Cat Tales Writers Group
Monday, March 15, 2021, 6:00 – 7:30pm
We’re back! Join us virtually for an open writing group that can help answer your questions on writing, editing, grammar, and publishing. Read a selection of your work to the group for general constructive feedback, or discuss a book you’ve read that might help someone else. Join us once, join us every month! Please register for this virtual event and you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
Family Trivia Night
Monday, March 15, 2021, 6:30pm – 7:15pm
Looking for something that you can do as a whole family? Team up for this virtual trivia challenge! Trivia questions will cover a variety of topics and will be appropriate for children of all ages. Each family will need a device (or devices) to participate in Zoom and answer trivia questions. Registration is required–please register once per family participating. You will receive a link via email for the Zoom meeting prior to the event.
Jammin’ with Jeffrey
Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 10:00 – 10:30am
Join Early Childhood Music specialist Michele Urban and her silly puppet friend, Jeffrey, as they make music together! Best for ages 0-5 but all ages welcome. Please register for these virtual events to receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
Ten Trends in Landscape and Land Care
Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 2:00 – 3:30pm
Presenter Kathy Connolly takes us on a brief visit to the world of landscape professionals. Listen as professional landscapers and garden center owners describe what they see for the future, and what common beliefs and practices they wish would change. Be prepared for some laughs and perhaps a bit of controversy. Please register for this virtual event and you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
What to Grow in My Medicinal Herb Garden?
Wednesday, March 24, 2021, 2:00 – 3:30pm
The right herbal “superstars” can help treat common ailments like colds and flu, inflammation, pain, anxiety, poor digestion, and insomnia. But where should you begin? How do you even start a medicinal herb garden? It’s a question many people ask, and we’ll help take the mystery out of starting a medicinal herb garden. Please register for this virtual event and you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
Clear Lip Gloss with Gemstones (Teen Take & Make tutorial)
Wednesday, March 24, 2021, 6:00pm – 6:45pm
Pick up a Take + Make kit with supplies for the craft any time the library is open during the week of March 15. Then join us on Zoom March 24 to learn how to make your own lip gloss at home with lovely gemstones and no beeswax or petroleum jelly! Please register for this virtual event to receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
Comics Club: Stargazing
Thursday, March 25, 2021, 4:00 – 4:45pm
This month we’ll make instruments in addition to discussing the book, Stargazing by Jen Wang. Please read the book before attending this virtual event. Copies of the book and craft materials are available at the children’s information desk starting on Feb 22. For kids in grades 3-5. You must register for each child in order to pick up a copy of the book and craft supplies. Registered participants will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the event start time.
Books Over Coffee: The Woman Who Stole Vermeer
Wednesday, March 31, 2021, 12:00 – 1:30pm
Want to engage in great discussions about books? Meet new people? Join us for an adult monthly book club program called Books Over Coffee. We will meet over Zoom. This month’s book is The Woman Who Stole Vermeer by Anthony Amore. Please register for this virtual event and you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting 1 hour prior to the start of the program.
What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in February
February’s a short month, but it’s long on programs here at Cheshire Library. Visit our Event Calendar for the full roster of programs for adults & kids this month – here are some highlights!
Explore New Worlds: Virtual Reality Tours
Monday, February 3, 2020, 6:00 – 7:30pm
Experience virtual reality with the library’s Oculus Quest headsets. Choose from 3 of our own Cheshire-based VR adventures or visit other new places and experiences. The event starts at 6pm, but you will be contacted prior to the event with the exact time of your personal session. Sessions will be in the order of registration.
Drop-in Tech Help
- Tuesday, February 4, 1:00 – 2:30pm
- Wednesday, February 19, 11:00am – 12:30pm
Do you have questions about your laptop, smartphone, or iPad? Do you need help navigating the internet or downloading an ebook? Bring your technology-related questions and issues to Cheshire Public Library’s Drop-In Tech Help. Our librarians will be available to answer your questions and offer advice. NOTE: Please be sure your device is charged beforehand. Tech help is available on a first come first served basis. Tech help may be limited to 15 minutes per person.
Terrific Tweens – Let’s Make Wishing Bracelets!
Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 4:00 – 4:45pm
Kids in grades 5-8 can drop in and decorate paper beads on one side with crayons, markers or pencils, and then write a wish on the other. Then we’ll roll them up, string them together and wish for good things! No registration required.
Take Your Child to the Library Day
Saturday, February 8, 2020 9:00am – 5:00pm
Celebrate your local library today! Stop by the Children’s Room and go on a scavenger hunt, play with toys, crafts, and more! Cheshire residents of any age can get a library card with a photo ID and proof of address. Non-residents can bring their card from their hometown library and get set up to borrow Cheshire materials. And as always, no card is needed to enjoy the day’s activities!
The Winter-Wonderland Music, Bubble and Comedy Show!
Saturday, February 8, 2020, 10:00 – 10:45am
This movement-focused 45-minute performance by Turtle Dance Music is a musical experience that is designed to engage children through song, movement, stories, projections, and interactive music technology! Best for children ages 2-12 but younger siblings are welcome to attend. Please register in advance for this program.
Sally Rogers concert
Sunday, February 9, 2020, 2:00 – 3:15pm
Join us for a concert of traditional, contemporary and original ballads and songs with acclaimed folk musician and recording artist Sally Rogers. Much of the material Sally performs includes compositions of her own (accompanying herself on guitar and Appalachian dulcimer), many of which are considered classics of the folk and popular genre. No registration required.
Intermediate Mac
Tuesday, February 11, 2020, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Have you purchased a Mac and want to learn more about the applications? In this lecture style class we will go over Calendar, Photos, Finder, Preview and more. To take this class you must have a fundamental understanding of Mac computers. Please bring your fully charged Mac computer and all applicable passwords. Space is limited and registration is required.
Learn to Scan Family Photos
Thursday, February 13, 2020, 2:00 – 3:00pm
Do you have albums and boxes of family photos that you would like to digitize? You can do it for free at the Library! Learn how to use the Scannx Scan Center on the library’s lower level in this short hands-on demonstration. Registration is required.
Author Talk: Dear George, Dear Mary
Thursday, February 13, 2020, 6:30 – 8:00pm
Author Mary Calvi has written a fascinating book called Dear George, Dear Mary: A Novel of George Washington’s First Love. Did unrequited love spark a flame that ignited a cause that became the American Revolution? Dear George, Dear Mary explores George’s relationship with his first love, New York heiress Mary Philipse, the richest belle in Colonial America. Books will be for sale and signing after the presentation. Registration is required.
Simply Lincoln
Saturday, February 22, 2020, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Being in the presence of Howard Wright as President Abraham Lincoln is an experience you will not soon forget. Dressed in precise period attire and speaking with a Kentucky accent, Lincoln’s mannerisms, speaking style, and humanity flows over the listener with each moving sentence, witty observance, or eloquent description of a tortuous time that was the Civil War. Registration is required.
The Hot Flashes concert
Sunday, February 23, 2020, 2:00 – 3:00pm
The Hot Flashes are an exciting and eclectic group fronted by three female vocalists who have made a name for themselves on the New England music scene showcasing their tight vocal harmonies and jazzy acoustic stylings. Join us for a rousing afternoon of bluegrass, folk, vintage country, swing, jazz, and blues tunes…with a few cowgirl and traditional tunes thrown in for good measure! No registration required.
Principles of Organic Gardening
Monday, February 24, 2020, 1:00 – 2:00pm
This talk by Dr. Yonghao Li from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station will explain the basic elements of successful organic gardening including site selection, soil preparation, garden design, irrigation, mulching, fertilization, and disease management. Registration is required.
Trivia Afternoon
Monday, February 24, 2020, 3:00 – 4:30pm
Come by yourself or bring friends. Test your knowledge from general categories including pop culture, current events, history, music, and of course, literature! Registration required for this adult program. When registering please register entire group from one person to a max five people.
The Changing Nature of the American Presidency
Tuesday, February 25, 2020, 6:30 – 8:00pm
Dr. Matthew Warshauer, Professor of History, Central Connecticut State University, will deliver a talk on The Changing Nature of the American Presidency. Dr. Warshauer received his Ph.D. (1997) in American Studies at Saint Louis University and joined the faculty at CCSU that same year. He is the author of several history books. Registration is required.
New England Country Dance
Thursday, February 27, 2020, 6:30 – 8:00pm
Join us for a night of dance! Hosted by Rich Sbardella who has been a dance caller for thirty years. Please wear good shoes for dancing! Registration is required for this adult program.
Color Yourself Calm & Watch a Movie
Saturday, February 29, 2020, 2:00 – 3:30pm
Back by popular demand! De-Stress from your busy life and color. In addition to coloring we will be watching New in Town (2009, rated PG) starring Renee Zellweger and Harry Connick Jr. All supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. Registration required for this adult program.
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