Libraries

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in July

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Summer is a busy time at CPL, and we’ve packed July with amazing programs every day we’re open. Here are some of the highlights, check out our Events Calendar to see the full roster!

Turtle Rock Music showBorn to Read Music, Bubble, and Comedy Show

Tuesday Jul 3, 2018, 4:00  –  5:00PM

This movement-focused 60-minute performance by Turtle Dance Music is designed to get kids moving using awesome music, original stories, incredible visuals, exciting games, and interactive music technology to promote fitness, healthy eating, going to your library, and celebrating music! Appropriate for ages 2 and up. Registration is required.

Unbound Book Club (Gr 3-6)

Mondays, July 9, July 23, Aug 6, 2018, 4:00 – 4:45PM

A casual book club for kids entering grades 3 to 6 with no parents and no required reading! Come every other week and talk about what you’re currently reading, get recommendations from other kids, do fun activities, and play games. No parents or caregivers allowed! Registration required starting June 18 for Cheshire residents and July 1 for nonresidents. Unbound Book Club meets three times: July 9, July 23, and August 6.

Nature Nick program at Cheshire Public LibraryNature Nick’s Animal Adventures

Tuesday, July 10, 2018, 3:00 – 4:00PM

Nature Nick is back! Get ready to meet some of the most exotic animals in the world! All ages are welcome. No registration required.

Connecticut Vanguards : historic trailblazers & their legacies by Eric D. LehmanConnecticut Vanguards

Tuesday, July 10, 6:00 – 8:00PM

Connecticut author Eric D. Lehman will discuss Connecticut Vanguards: Historic Trailblazers & Their Legacies, his chronicle of two dozen state residents whose inventive spirits and talents influenced the state and the world. Lehman has published a dozen books of history, travel and fiction, many of which have won awards. Registration is required.

Intro to Guitar for Adults

Wednesday, July 11, 2018, 6:00 – 8:00PM

Join music instructor Dan Fontana as he reviews what you will need to know about learning to play the guitar as an adult. He will provide an overview of what it takes to start and the benefits of learning how to play music. Fontana will provide in-class and online materials that attendees can access at home. All the students have to bring to this workshop is their guitar and some paper to take notes.
Registration required starting June 20 for Cheshire residents and July 4 for all others.

Kindness Rocks

Thursday, July 12, 2018, 6:00 – 8:00PM

Help us promote random acts of kindness around Cheshire by participating in our Kindness Rocks event!  Adults are invited to help us paint rocks with inspirational pictures and words. After,  the class will leave the rocks around town. Patrons are encouraged to take pictures of the rocks you find #CPLKindnessRocks and post them on social media, and tag us @cheshirelibrary. Space is limited for this adult program. Registration is required.

Acrobat Li Liu performs at Cheshire Public LibraryLibrary After Hours: Acrobat Li Liu

Friday Jul 13, 2018, 5:00  –  7:00PM

Join us for an acrobatic performance, children’s activities, and more!  Li Liu will perform plate spinning, trick cycling, Chinese water bowl manipulation, and other acrobatic feats at 6:00 pm. Pizza, snacks and drinks will be available for sale from the Friends of the Library. Please register in advance so we know how many goodies to have on hand! There is no admission fee, but there is a suggested donation of $5 per family to help offset costs.  Please note that the Lower Level of the Library will not be open to the public.

Family Movie Matinees

Tuesdays at 3:30PM, no registration required.

The Farmington Canal

Tuesday, July 17, 2018, 7:00 – 8:00PM

Thought you knew everything about the Farmington Canal? Think again! Cheshirepedia Inc. is sponsoring a talk by Carl Walter, the country’s leading authority on the Farmington Canal.  Registration is required.

Backpacking Gear Show and Tell

Thursday, July 19, 2018, 3:00 – 5:00PM

A casual drop-in program to demonstrate backpacking gear used for multi-day trips into the wilderness, hosted by staff member and Long Trail thru-hiker Lauren Gledhill. Come in any time between 3:00pm and 5:00 pm to ask questions and see photos of life on the trail. Children are especially encouraged to attend! For children and adults of all ages, no registration required.

Vinyasa Yoga

88452EEF-D28E-4B57-9C00-48A0E6A3DADB

Monday, July 23, 2018, 6:30 – 8:00PM

A vinyasa style class suited for all levels.  Students will be introduced to dynamic sequences and a variety of pranayama or yogic breathing techniques.  Focus is on linking movement and asana to the breath and building internal heat.  The instructor will offer options and modifications for all levels of practice.  Bring your own mat and water bottle and props such as yoga blocks or yoga blanket if you would like. Registration is required.

DIY: Marble Roller Coasters (Ages 7-12)

Thursday, July 26, 2018, 3:00 – 4:00PM

Explore kinetic energy, gravity, and other physics concepts by making your own 3D marble roller coasters! Can you keep your marble on the track? For ages 7-12.  Class size is limited, registration is required.

Meditation

Monday, July 30, 2018, 6:30 – 7:00PM and 7:00 – 7:30PM

Meditation is a practice in mindfulness and an exploration of the inner self.  Through guided imagery, focusing on the breath, and sitting in stillness students will begin to facilitate a feeling of inner peace and tranquility that can be carried out into their everyday lives. his class is open to all, with or without experience to come and explore and hold space together.  Please dress comfortably and bring a blanket or cushion if you would like. Registration is required.

Writing Fiction: The Creative Process

Tuesday, July 31, 2018, 6:30 – 7:30PM

Join writer Patrick Scalisi for this workshop, where he’ll discuss:

  • What do you like to write? (Some broad genres, finding examples of the work you like, reading to become a better writer)
  • Barriers to creativity
  • Coming up with ideas
  • Developing ideas (i.e. character, setting, dialogue)

Attendees will be presented with writing prompts to attempt in the session. Registration required starting July 10 for Cheshire residents and July 24 for all others.

 

 

 

 

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in June

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Summer is our busiest time at Cheshire Library, as anyone who has circled our parking lot on a summer afternoon can attest! Despite being a bit short on staff and tall on construction chaos, we have managed to put together some terrific programming this summer. We’ve got a bit of a railroad theme this month, take a look at what’s on the calendar for June:

The Electrification of the New Haven Railroad

Monday Jun 4, 2018, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

This program will cover the development of the New Haven’s freight and passenger electric locomotives and what made them unique with their pioneering designs. The program will also cover the development of the New Haven’s industry setting AC power and its distribution system. Registration is required.

Scrabble Evenings

Wednesdays, Jun 6, 13, 20, 27, 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Bring your friends, family and join your community in a game of scrabble.  Please bring your up to date library card to check out a scrabble board located at the checkout desk.  Please meet fellow players on the third floor area. No registration required.

New Movie Thursday ~ Black Panther

Thursday, June 7, 2018, 5:45pm – 8:00pm

Did you miss the screening of a film you wanted to see in theatres?  Join us for the first Thurday of the month for a screening of a recently released film.  At the conclusion of the movie vote for next months not to miss movie.  June’s movie is…..  Black Panther!    T’Challa, the King of Wakanda, rises to the throne in the isolated, technologically advanced African nation, but his claim is challenged by a vengeful outsider who was a childhood victim of T’Challa’s father’s mistake.

Cat Tales- Writers Group

Thursday, June 14, 2018, 6:00 – 8:00pm

Do you write in secret, or do you publish your own blog? Are you working on your dream novel, a memoir, or poetry? Interesting in being published, whether traditionally or self-published?  Join us at the library 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! Registration required for this adult program.

Passport Event

Saturday Jun 16, 2018, 1:00  –  3:00 PM

Join us for your one stop shop to acquire* or renew your passport.

Please bring the following:

  • Passport Application
  • Evidence of Citizenship
  • Two Forms of ID
  • Payment (2 checks for renewals)

Payments:
–  Checks or money orders only. No credit cards.
–  First-time applicants must bring two checks or money orders:
–  One check or money order for the passport application fee made payable to “U.S. Department of State”
–   A second check or money order for the $25 execution fee – add $15 for a photo if applicable – made payable to “Postmaster”.

*Typical Processing Time for Passports is 4-6 Weeks.
For questions regarding Passports please contact The National Passport information line at 1-877-487-2778 or visit Travel.State.Gov

The Pennsylvania Station in New York City

Monday Jun 18, 2018, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

This presentation will cover the inception of Pennsylvania Station, its sub-aqueous tunnels and the challenges faced in the construction of this massive and impressive undertaking. The tragic demolition of this grand structure by the Pennsylvania RR will also be included. Registration is required.

Chalk Painting Furniture

Thursday Jun 21, 2018, 6:00  –  8:00 PM

Do you have furniture you want to update with a fresh new look? Traci Selinske, the owner of the Posh Pear in Cheshire, will show you the techniques to get that naturally aged look using chalk paint, light & dark waxes, dusk of ages, and distressing techniques. Registration will begin on Monday, May 21, 2018 at 9:00 AM.

Friday After Hours: Lost Acres String Band

Friday Jun 22, 2018, 5:00  –  7:30 PM

Join us as we kick off summer reading with the Lost Acres String Band!  The concert will begin at 6:00 and there will be plenty of fun activities for children of all ages!  Pizza, snacks and drinks will be available for sale from the Friends of the Library. Please register so we know how many goodies to have on hand! There is no admission fee, but there is a suggested donation of $5 per family to help offset costs.  Please note that the Lower Level of the Library will not be open to the public. This concert is made possible by donations given to the Friends of the Library in loving memory of Jo Korten.

Streamlined Trains of the 1930s and Their Industrial Designers

Monday Jun 25, 2018, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

With the popularity of the private automobile and the effects of the Great Depression, passenger travel on the American railroads was in a steep decline. Something was needed to bring passengers back to the trains. This presentation will show how it was done and how the same steps were taken in the 1950s to once again bring passengers back to the trains. Registration is required.

Kids Spa Day

Wednesday, June 27, 2018, 4:00 – 4:45pm

Start the summer off right!  Join us to make your own sugar lip scrub and a stress ball. You will learn relaxation techniques and enjoy snacks with friends!  Registration is required.

Trivia Night

Wednesday Jun 27, 2018, 6:00  –  8:00 PM

Come by yourself or bring your friends. Test your knowledge from general categories, including pop culture, current events, history, music, and of course literature! It’s all For Pride, Not Prize.  Registration for this adult program will begin on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at 9:00 AM.

 

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in May

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This May brings a lot of changes to CPL, in both staff and surroundings. Our remodeling project continues on the lower level, and we say good-bye to some key staffers as we head into our busiest season. We will continue to bring you as many awesome programs as we can throughout it all – here are some of the events on the schedule for May:

various computers and electronic devicesDrop-In Tech Help

  • 1:00  –  3:00 PM:
  • Tues. May 1
  • Wed. May 9
  • Wed. May 16
  • Mon. May 21
  • Wed. May 30

Do you have questions about your computer, smartphone, or iPad? Do you need help navigating Facebook or downloading an ebook? Bring your technology-related questions and problems to Cheshire Public Library’s Drop-In Tech Help.  Tech help is available on a first come first served basis, and may be limited to 15 minutes per person. Please be sure your device is fully charged beforehand.

Managing Back Pain

Tuesday May 1, 2018, 6:30 PM

Resolving or managing neck and back pain can greatly improve quality of life. Recent developments in healthcare provide relief for acute, chronic and cancer-related pain, to enable a happier, healthier life. In this interactive session, Board-certified Neurosurgeon Judith L. Gorelick, MD, and Board-certified Pain Management Specialist Tamer B. Ghaly, MD  discuss recent developments in surgical and non-surgical treatments for neck and back pain nand  interventional techniques to manage pain and avoid or significantly reduce the use of opioids. Registration is required.

Scrabble board and game piecesScrabble Afternoons

Wednesdays,  May 2, 9, 16, 23, 12:30-2:30 PM

Bring your friends, family and join your community in a game of scrabble.  Please bring your up to date library card to check out a scrabble board located at the Checkout Desk.

"May the Fourth be With You" Star Wars Day logoLibrary After Hours – Star Wars Edition!

Friday May 4, 2018, 5:00  –  7:30 PM

MAY THE ‘FOURTH’ BE WITH YOU!  Jedi Younglings and Padawan will learn the ways of the force with the Olympic Taekwondo Academy from 6:00-7:00pm.  Face painting, special crafts, and a photobooth will be available from 5:00-7:00pm. Pizza and drinks will be available for sale by the Friends of the Library.  There is no admission fee, but there is a suggested donation of $5 per family to help offset costs.  Registration is required so that we know how many goodies to have! (Please note that the Lower Level of the Library will not be open to the public. )

Jean Bauer with her dog Rudy, and her book "Joy Unleashed"The Gift Of Therapy Dogs: Remembering Bella, Meeting Rudy

Saturday May 5, 2018, 11:00 AM  –  12:30 PM

What exactly is a therapy dog? What do they do? Come hear author and speaker Jean Baur, and her new therapy dog, Rudy. Jean wrote a book about her first therapy dog, Bella:  Joy Unleashed:  The Story of Bella, the Unlikely Therapy Dog. Bella worked for six years, visiting nursing home and hospital patients as well as going to schools and colleges. Jean will share Bella and Rudy’s stories, how she trained them, and most importantly explore with us what they do and why they’re so good at it.  Copies of Jean’s book will be available for sale. Children are welcome, but please leave your fur friends at home. Registration is required.

Kids Crafternoon: Huichol String Art

Saturday May 5, 2018, 3:00  –  4:00 PM

Create your own yarn painting inspired by the Huichol tribe of Mexico!

Eastern coyoteEastern Coyotes in Connecticut

Monday May 7, 2018, 6:30  –  8:00 PM

This presentation focuses on the history of coyotes in Connecticut, an overview of coyote habitat, diet, behavior, and reproduction.  It also provides practical recommendations for optimum coexistence with our coyote population.  Coyote artifacts will be shared with the audience. Registration is required.

Cheshire Library Director Ramona Burkey and Head of Children’s Services Lucas FranklinReception for Ramona Burkey and Lucas Franklin

Wednesday May 9, 2018, 4:00  –  6:00 PM

Join us in saying farewell to two wonderful staff members who are leaving Cheshire for new positions, Library Director Ramona Burkey and Head of Children’s Services Lucas Franklin. Visit with your favorite Cheshire librarians and enjoy refreshments, including a show-stopper of a cake from our friends at Cheshire Baking! Simple activities and crafts will be available for our youngest guests. Please register so we know how many goodies to have!

Phil Klein with a white dogCertified Dog Listener, Phil Klein

Thursday May 10, 2018, 6:00  –  8:00 PM

Learn how canines see the human world,  the importance of eye contact and movement in canine communication, the underlying reasons for your dog’s behavior problems.  The best news – learn the simple, dog-friendly changes in how to interact with your dog to transform its behavior in a kind and lasting way. In doing so, you will have a calmer, happier dog and a more enjoyable relationship with it. Registration is required for this program, please bring your questions but not your pets.

Black Bear with a cubThe Bear Reality

Monday May 14, 2018, 6:30  –  8:00 PM
The black bear population in Connecticut has continued to increase since the 1980. It’s important for residents and outdoor enthusiasts to learn real facts about black bears enabling them to stay safe, protect themselves and their property and make possible coexistence with bears. Felicia Ortner, a Connecticut Master Wildlife Conservationist (MWC) and a bear enthusiast, will provide education and facts about bears and help dispel myths and common misunderstandings. Registration is required.

civil war soldier with a Newfoundland dofAnimal Mascots of the Civil War

Thursday May 17, 2018, 6:30  –  7:30 PM

The Civil War was fought by citizen armies that often had their own, very un-military, ways of fighting. One thing they did was to bring or adopt animals of many kinds. This talk will focus on those much-loved unit mascots. Professor Hamish Lutris, History, Capital Community College, presents the idea of using animals to represent military units throughout history will be discussed, as well as the particular animals honored in Civil War lore and memorialization. Registration is required.

royal wedding photos of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Prince William and Kate Middleton, Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of EdinburghRoyal Tea Party

Saturday May 19, 2018, 1:00 PM

The Royal Public Librarians of Cheshire request the honor of your presence at our Royal Tea Party in celebration of the British Royal Wedding!  Have your picture taken at St. George’s; participate in royal wedding trivia and a best fascinator contest. Enjoy tea and treats.  A video presentation of past royal weddings will be showed as well.   Please bring your favorite teacup! Registration will begin Saturday, May 5, and  is required for this adult program.

Adios, Chanel! DIY Herbal Perfume

Tuesday May 29, 2018, 6:00 PM

Ditch your store-bought perfume! Most contain dozens of chemicals that do not have to be disclosed on the label. Become a mad scientist! Experiment with base fragrances, mid-tones, and top notes to create your own scent. The mother-daughter team of Velya Jancz-Urban and Ehris Urban are back to teach us, hands-on, how to make our own signature scent. Each participant will leave with a unique, new personal perfume. Sitting is very limited and registration is required.

Read-alikes of Your Favorite Books

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“I just finished Margaret Atwood’s A Handmaid’s Tale, and it blew me away! What’s another book like that?”

We get questions like this every day at CPL. And while no two books are going to give you exactly the same reading experience, we know of plenty that are pretty similar to  that great book you just read.  For example, here are four titles that got a lot of Checkout time last year, and four others you might like just as much.

infographic illustrating the book selections mentioned in this article.

If you’d like to find more books to love, check out our reader’s advisory database NoveList (available on the eResources page of our website.) NoveList is the premier database of reading recommendations, available through libraries around the world, and makes it easy to match the right book with the right person.

Staff Picks are everywhere!

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If there’s one thing we love, it’s recommending books. A walk through our main & lower levels will reveal a dozen or more themed book displays featured throughout, which we change and update frequently. There’s also our “Reader’s Depot” on the main level, which features the current NYT Bestsellers Lists, release dates for upcoming titles, read-alike lists, and more.

Anyone going through the Checkout area has seen our Staff Picks wall. This wall is filled in daily with books our staff members have read and enjoyed. There’s ALWAYS something good to read there!

You may not know that there is also a “Staff Picks” page in our catalog. Staff members have put together some themed book lists there for you to peruse. You can browse these Staff Picks right from home, and if you see something you like, reserve a copy online!

 

If you’re reading this blog, you already know there are a ton of reading suggestions here. Elsewhere on social media, our Tumblr is full of book lists & book news, too.  And of course, you can always come right out and ask us for reading suggestions. Or let us know about a book you enjoyed. We love getting book recommendations almost as much as giving them!