Online Services

Save Money at the Library

/ Adam / 1 Comment

There are several ways to save money at the Cheshire Public Library. If you want to learn budgeting, investment, and retirement skills, come browse our large collection of personal finance books, magazines, and e-books. For more immediate savings, check out our museum passes. We offer discounts and free admission to some of the best museums in the state.

But today, I’d like to zoom in on our Research page, where you can get free access to websites that normally require a paid subscription. A recent CNET study found that the average US adult spends $91(!) on subscription services each month. We can’t help with Costco or Netflix, but you may find something here that will come in handy…

The New York Times

Normally $24.99 per month, free from the library

You can access the digital version of The New York Times both inside and outside the library. This means access to articles, reviews, podcasts, recipes, and games (so you can impress your friends with a Wordle streak). If you’re more of a “print” kind of person, we have both The NYT newspaper and magazine available on the lower level of the library.

Click here for to access to the New York Times:

*Note: Only the “News” portion of the website is available outside the library

Consumer Reports

Normally $10.00 per month, free from the library

Consumer Reports is a nonprofit organization that helps consumers gauge the value, quality, and authenticity of goods and services. It’s a trusted resource for unbiased reviews of cars, appliances, electronics, and lots more. Like The NYT, we also have the print version of the Consumer Reports magazine on the lower level of the library.

Click here to access Consumer Reports

Ancestry

Normally $24.99 per month, free from the library

Ancestry allows users to access a massive database of genealogical and historical resources. Search through Census records; military records; court, land, and probate records; vital and church records; directories; petitions for naturalization… The list goes on and on. This service is only available at the library itself so make sure to visit our public computers on the lower level.

Mango Languages

Normally $19.99 per month, free from the library

Chances are you’ve heard of Duolingo. I use it myself and like that it keeps me responsible for learning every day. On the whole, though, it feels somewhat lacking in actual education. Duolingo’s focus is on gamification can make it feel more like Candy Crush than French 101. Mango Languages is a great alternative that provides structured lesson plans that cover vocabulary, grammar, and culture. What’s more, Mango Languages boasts 70+ world languages and courses for English learners as well.

Click here to access Mango Languages

Also available through our Research page are:

  • Free digital editions of local newspapers (Cheshire Herald, Meriden Record-Journal, New Haven Register)
  • Morningstar Investment Research Center
  • LearningExpress Library: College and career readiness tools
  • NoveList: A subscription only readers advisory tool

Still using the OverDrive app? It’s time to switch to Libby!

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On May 1, 2023, the OverDrive app will be discontinued. Now’s the time switch to Libby, OverDrive’s newer reading app. Libby is made by the same people, with the same goal of connecting you to your favorite books, audiobooks, and magazines, and is streamlined to make finding and downloading digital materials easier than ever!

Why is the original app going away? Libby has actually been around since 2017, and and for that period of time OverDrive offered both options. Since then, Libby has seen much more use than the older OverDrive app, and it no longer made sense to maintain both apps.

Making the switch is easy! Simply download the app on your mobile device to get started. Good news, once you add your library card to Libby, all your loans and holds will be waiting on your Shelf! You won’t lose your place in line for any items you have on hold. If you have a Wish List, you’ll be prompted to import it from OverDrive via an in-app notification. Your wish list items will become a tag that’s available on your Shelf.

After checking out a digital item with Libby, you can read/listen right through the app. Prefer to read ebooks on a Kindle? Check out your ebook through the Libby app, then send it to Kindle and read it there:

  1. Tap Shelf.
  2. Tap loans at the top of the screen.
  3. Tap Read With….
  4. Tap Kindle.
  5. You’ll be taken to Amazon’s website. If prompted, sign into your Amazon account.
  6. Verify the “Deliver to:” device and tap Get Library Book to finish getting the book.

If you use a Kindle Fire tablet, you can sideload the Libby app to your Kindle Fire by following these instructions. You can also use the OverDrive website or Libbyapp.com in your Fire’s browser. 

Finally, if you’re more comfortable using a computer instead of a mobile device to access our digital collection, don’t worry, Libby works on a computer, as well! Visit libbyapp.com to browse, search, read or listen and more on your computer.

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in August

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Two more weeks to complete your Summer Adventure challenges and receive entries into our BIG PRIZE RAFFLE! How’s your summer adventure going?

Riverside Reptiles

Thursday, August 4, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00pm

Want to meet live animals? Join one of our educators from Riverside Reptiles Education Center as they introduce you to exotic animals through a hands-on learning experience. Get ready! It’s sure to be one scaly ride! This program is intended for families with children.  Registration is required. Small children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Drawing for Teens: Manga

Tuesday, August 9, 2022, 3:00 – 4:30pm

Artist, Robin McCahill from Artsplace, will show you how to make your drawings spring into action! For teens in grades 5-12. Registration is required.

Paint Night

Monday, August 15, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Learn how to paint a real work of art! Follow instructor Pamela Halligan of Pam’s Picassos as she walks you through the steps of creating your own masterpiece and you will create a beautiful completed painting.  Please note this program is intended for adults. Registration is required. 

Loft Knitters

Wednesday, August 17, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Our monthly knitting group. Come socialize, learn, share your techniques with other knitters.  All levels of adult knitters’ welcome, please bring your own yarn and knitting needles. Registration is required.

Murder by the Book Mystery Book Club: The Devil in the White City

ONLINE Thursday, August 18, 2022, 1:00pm – 2:30pm

Do you like to read and talk about mysteries? Then join us for monthly book discussions, fresh perspectives, new authors and a friendly atmosphere! We are meeting virtually via Zoom for the present.  This month we will discuss The Devil in the White City : Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America by Erik Larson. Register to receive a Zoom link on the day of the program.

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in July

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Have you signed up for the Summer Adventure summer reading program yet? Everyone from babies through adults can participate – there’s still time to register! Each challenge completed this summer gets you an entry into our big prize raffles, what are you waiting for?

Audrey Mae Bluegrass Ensemble in concert at Mixville Park

Wednesday, July 6, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Audrey Mae Bluegrass Ensemble features the duet harmonies of bluegrass veterans Peter Winne and Joe Delillo accompanied by the tasteful stylings of banjo player Joe Lemeris and fiddler-mandolinist Sam McDougle. Admission to Mixville Park is free for concert attendees.  Just tell the staff at the entrance gate that you are there for the concert.  The concert will begin at 6:30, but you are welcome to come early and enjoy a picnic or a stroll at beautiful Mixville!  Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and some bug spray. There is no rain date for this concert.

Pet Professions

Thursday, July 7, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00pm

This program presented by the Connecticut Humane Society will teach middle school and high school students about the many careers related to animal welfare. Participants will get an overview of the different professions at animal welfare organizations. For teens in grades 5-12. Registration is required.

Farmer’s Bounty Cooking Workshop

Thursday, July 7, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

What better way to enjoy summer’s harvest than cooking the food from your local farmers; learning about fresh produce, juices, breads and specialty items; and then creating and enjoying a meal based upon the ingredients of the season and that week. Dishes prepared will depend on what’s available locally. Discover the joys of the slow food movement– taking time to enjoy your local produce, and realizing the power of the kitchen to bring people together for kinship, culture, and culinary delight. Registration is required.

Loft Knitters

Wednesday, July 13, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Our monthly knitting group. Come socialize, learn, share your techniques with other knitters.  All levels of adult knitters’ welcome, please bring your own yarn and knitting needles. Registration is required.

BOOM (Band of Old Men!) in concert at Mixville Park

Wednesday, July 13, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Join us for a fun concert for all ages!  BOOM is a locally-based rock band that plays classic hits from the 1960s and 1970s. The group is made up of George Meyers of Cheshire, Larry Rifkin of Prospect, Vern Coles of Norwalk and Haig Papasian of West Hartford. Admission to Mixville Park is free for concert attendees.  Just tell the staff at the entrance gate that you are there for the concert.  The concert will begin at 6:30, but you are welcome to come early and enjoy a picnic or a stroll at beautiful Mixville!  Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and some bug spray. Rain date: July 14.

Pirates: Lost at Sea

Tuesday, July 19, 2022, 5:00 – 5:45pm

Ahoy there, matey! Set sail with Talewise on a thrilling action-packed adventure about a crew of quirky pirates marooned on a desert island. Throughout the story, we’ll explore the incredible science behind clouds, physical and chemical changes, air pressure, and more! This program is best for kids in grades K-6. Registration is required.

Drawing for Teens: Dragons 

Thursday, July 21, 2022, 3:00 – 4:30pm

So, you want to draw a dragon, but don’t know where to start? Artist, Robin McCahill from Artsplace, will share tips for creating fantastic dragons from your imagination! You’ll be designing your own creatures in no time! For teens in grades 5-12. Registration is required.

Christmas Markets of Europe

Thursday, July 21, 2022, 6:30 – 7:45pm

It’s Christmas in July!  Join us as we learn about the magic of European Christmas markets. This informative program will introduce you to the main Christmas markets in countries like Austria, Germany, Italy, and beyond.   Enjoy beautiful photography as well as New Year’s customs and traditions of each country.  Presented by Lisa (Cisero) Phillips of Bella Europa Travel. Registration is required.

Nowashe Village: A Day in the Life

Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 3:00 – 4:15pm

Travel back in time to the Woodland period of the central Connecticut River Valley, when the bow and arrow became popular hunting tools, clay pottery was invented, and Indigenous Peoples began to rely more on an agricultural way of life. Each participant will grind native corn with a stone mortar and pestle and learn how to properly cook corn cakes. Presented by Nowashe Village. For children and teens in grades K-6. Registration is required.

The Nields in concert at Mixville Park

Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Described by one reviewer as “equal parts Beatles, Cranberries and Joni Mitchell”, the Nields have released 17 albums, and performed with The Band, James Taylor, Dan Zanes, 10,000 Maniacs, and the Indigo Girls. dmission to Mixville Park is free for concert attendees.  Just tell the staff at the entrance gate that you are there for the concert.  The concert will begin at 6:30, but you are welcome to come early and enjoy a picnic or a stroll at beautiful Mixville!  Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and some bug spray. Rain date: July 27.

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in June

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Our Summer Adventure summer reading program for kids and adults kicks off on June 1. Sign up to receive a packet of activities & challenges, then turn in completed packets to be eligible for fabulous prizes!

Open Art Studio

Fridays from 1-3pm, May 6, 13, 20, 27

Bring your works in progress and supplies to this weekly drop-in art program. This is an opportunity to create in a collaborative environment with other artists. No formal instruction will be provided, but informal critiquing for those who want it is encouraged. Table covers will be provided. There is a sink in the room for basic cleanup (please do not bring turpentine).

Remembering D-Day (2 part series)

Historian Kelvin W. Cole will be here for two nights June 6 & 13 to discuss the historic events of D-Day and Normandy.The fall of Western Europe to the Nazis and the construction of the defenses and “The  Atlantic Wall” in their bid to keep it. The “Perfect Storm” of events that descended upon the Nazis’ “Fortress Europe” and resulted in the Allied victory with the collapse and German surrender eleven months later. Registration required for each program.

Cat Tales Writers Group

Thursday, June 9, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Join us for a monthly 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. Registration is required.

Loft Knitters

Wednesday, June 15, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Our monthly knitting group. Come socialize, learn, share your techniques with other knitters.  All levels of adult knitters’ welcome, please bring your own yarn and knitting needles. Registration is required.

Dance Party at Mixville Park

Friday, June 17, 2022, 5:00 – 8:00pm

We’re kicking off our Summer Adventure Reading Program at Mixville Park with a fun dance party! There will be activities for all ages including, a DJ, lawn games, balloon twisting, volleyball, gaga ball pit, chalk drawing, and a special character appearance! Please register so that we can contact you in the event of a weather-related cancellation (rain date is June 24).

Pete The Cat Music

Tuesday, June 21, 2022, 10:00 – 10:45am

On his way to the Music Room, Pete’s white shoes get dirty but he just keeps going along and singing his songs. Pete learns a cool song, a groovy dance and discovers his own boogie shoes!

Best for Ages 1-6. Registration is required.

  • Cheshire Residents: Cheshire residents will be allowed to register starting on June 7.
  • Non-Residents: Non-residents may register starting on June 14.

Intro to Improv

Tuesday, June 21, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00pm

Join us for a program where everything is made up! Play acting games to learn the basics of improvisational comedy. For teens in grades 7-12 registration is required.

Hooked on Llamas

Wednesday, June 22, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00pm

Debbie from Country Quilt Llama Farm will bring one of her llama friends to the library for a special storytime! Children will be able to touch and pet a real llama.

Best for ages 3-8. Registration is required.

  • Cheshire Residents: Cheshire residents will be allowed to register starting on June 8.
  • Non-Residents: Non-residents may register starting on June 15.

Hot Cat Jazz Band in concert at Mixville Park

Wednesday, June 22, 2022, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Join us for our summer concert series kick-off!  The Hot Cat Jazz Band summer concert in June will be fun for the entire family.  The Hot Cats repertoire includes swing standards, big band hits, Dixieland favorites and classic rock. Admission to Mixville Park is free for concert attendees.  Just tell the staff at the entrance gate that you are there for the concert.  The concert will begin at 6:30, but you are welcome to come early and enjoy a picnic or a stroll at beautiful Mixville!  Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and some bug spray.   Raindate: June 23.

Bear Scavenger Hunt

Thursday, June 23, 2022, All Day Event

Drop into the Children’s Room and complete a bear scavenger hunt for a chance to win a prize from the Beardsley Zoo! No registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cheshire Public Library and the Beardsley Zoo.

Teen Crafts: CD Suncatchers

Thursday, June 23, 2022, 2:00 – 3:00pm

Come hang out in the Teen Room, and make some aesthetically pleasing and trendy suncatchers out of recycled CDs. Snacks will be provided. For teens/tweens in grades 6-12. Registration required.

Best of England’s Dramatic Cornwall

Thursday, June 23, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00pm

Armchair travelers, this one’s for you! Join Anglophile and former UK resident Claire Evans for a lively discussion about this underappreciated English destination, Cornwall, England’s far west country bordered by the North Atlantic and the English Channel. This program will be ONLINE, please register to receive a Zoom link one hour before the program.

Zombie School: SFX Makeup Workshop for grades 5-12

Tuesday, June 28, 2022, 4:00 – 5:30pm

Decimated Designs will teach you how to transform into a monster, zombie, and more! We’ll cover the do’s and don’ts of special effects makeup, hygiene, how to get started, and some tricks you can use to improve your costumes or makeup at home. Seats are limited, registration is required.

The Bad Guys Book Party 

Wednesday, June 29, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00pm

Help the Bad Guys, characters from the book series by Aaron Blabey, complete a mission and save the library! Enjoy crafts, games, challenges and more! Best for kids in grades K-6. Siblings are welcome to attend. Registration is required.

Songs Around the Campfire

Thursday, June 30, 2022, 11:00 – 11:45am

Sing some funny and upbeat campfire songs with Julie Stepanek and her ukulele!

Best for ages 0-7. Registration is required.

  • Cheshire Residents: Cheshire residents will be allowed to register starting on June 16.
  • Non-Residents: Non-residents may register starting on June 23.

Italy Through the Seasons

Thursday, June 30, 2022, 6:30 – 7:40pm

Join us as we will introduce you to a rich and meaningful seasonal experience of Italy. We will take a full discovery across Italy, north to south including Sicily. We hope to see you for this relaxed, informational and interactive presentation. Lisa (Cisero) Phillips of  Bella Europa Travel will be presenting. Registration is required.

JUNE BOOK CLUBS

Murder by the Book Mystery Book Club: Strong Poison

Thursday, June 16, 2022, 1:00 – 2:30pm

Natural Selections Book Club: Sapiens

Saturday, June 18, 2022, 2:30 – 3:30pm

Many Stories Book Club: There There

Thursday, June 23, 2022, 7:00 – 8:00pm

Books Over Coffee: Lessons in Chemistry

Wednesday, June 22, 2022, 12:00 – 1:30pm