What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in May

Some art, some history, some travel, and more is on the agenda for May – check out our Events Calendar for details on all the programs blooming this month! Here’s a preview:

SPRING BOOK SALE!

The Friends of the Cheshire Library are excited to announce their annual Spring Book Sale! The book sale features more than 15,000 books of every possible genre. Adult and children’s titles are available in both hard and soft cover editions and are priced from 50 cents to $2.

Preview Night!
Wednesday, May 1st, 6:30pm – 8pm
Preview night is for Friends members only.
Memberships may be purchased at the door.
Book Sale:
Thursday, May 2nd, 9am – 8pm
Friday, May 3rd, 9am – 4:30pm
Saturday, May 4th, 9am – 4:30pm
Bag of Books Sale:
Sunday, May 5th, 12pm – 3pm
Fill a bag with books and pay only $10.
A second bag is just $5!

 

Color and Form in Abstract Art

Wednesday, May 1, 2019, 6:00 – 8:15pm

Artist Elizabeth Gourlay discusses her use of the nuances of color and form in her abstract paintings and works on paper, which she compares to musical compositions. Gourlay incorporates  warmth and gesture into all of her works, whose layered vocabulary of abstract forms emerges from her thoughts, emotions and observations of the world. No registration required, sponsored by the Cheshire Art League.

Open Art Studio in the Library Loft

Fridays from 1:00 – 3:00pm

Bring your works in progress and supplies (no turpentine, please!) to this 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.

Terrific Tweens

Make a CD Hovercraft! Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 4:00 – 4:45pm

Lemon Power! Wednesday May 22, 2019, 4:00 – 4:45pm

Kids are invited for fun with art, science, technology, and games. We’ll assemble robots & contraptions, play with our food, create fun works of art, and bring video games to life! For grades 5-8, no registration required.

New Movie Thursday: Welcome to Marwen

Thursday, May 9, 2019, 6:00 – 8:00pm

Did you miss the screening of a film you wanted to see in theatres?  Join us for the first Thursday of the month for a screening of a recently released film. May’s movie is Welcome to Marwen starring Steve Carrell. A victim of a brutal attack finds a unique and beautiful therapeutic outlet to help him through his recovery process. Rated PG-13. Registration is appreciated.

Author Talk:  Soldiers of a Foreign War

Tuesday, May 14, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Vietnam Veteran, Dr. Charles McNair, shares his novel that presents the Vietnam War in all its conflicted complexity. It is told from the enlisted soldiers’ perspective and deals with the American and Vietnamese’s, North and South, all teenagers, experiences as they leave their families and enter their countries’ respective armies. Registration is required.

Armchair Traveling

Discovering France: Wednesday, May 15, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Mexico and Central America: Wednesday, May 29, 2019,  6:30 – 8:00pm

Come and join us on the journey to different parts of these magnificent regions. During our journey through France, we will visit Paris, the Palace of Versailles, Giverny, Normandy, the Loire Valley and the Southern region.  For our look at Mexico and Central America, we will look at photos of traditional landscapes and architecture of the Aztecs and Mayans and then look at contemporary tourism landscapes. Please register separately for each program.

Katharine Hepburn: From Hartford to Hollywood

Thursday, May 16, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Born and raised in Connecticut, Katherine Hepburn had a career in stage, film and television that reflected the changing role of women in broader society.  The story of her life-long ties to Connecticut offers a complete picture of how Hepburn became the woman and the star she was. Registration is required.

Improving Your Life Through Meditation

Monday, May 20, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Meditation can bring about a sense of calm and balance that benefits both your emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. Join Clare Vidich for this enjoyable and informative meditation workshop for new or experienced meditators. Registration is required.

Crafting for a Cause

Wednesday, May 22, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Unleash your artistic side while making your community a better place! Come and decorate canvas totes to be donated to the Cheshire Food Pantry. The Library will supply the totes and art supplies, but feel free to bring art materials from home! This program is open to adults and children of all ages. Please register in advance so we can provide enough supplies. Please register in advance.

Books Over Coffee: Where’d You Go, Bernadette

Wednesday, May 29, 2019, 12:00 – 1:30pm

Want to engage in great discussions about books? Meet new people? Eat lunch with friends? Join us for an adult monthly book club program called “Books Over Coffee.”  Books are available each month ahead of time, and will be available in audio & ebook format.  Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple is our May selection. You bring your lunch, we’ll provide the coffee and tea! Registration is required.

Author Talk: The Dogs of Camelot: Stories of the Kennedy Canines

Thursday, May 30, 2019, 6:00 – 8:00pm

Join us as Joan Lownds talks about her book  The Dogs of Camelot: Stories of the Kennedy Canines, which illuminates the inside story of the Kennedys’ lifelong love of dogs and the unparalleled canine corps they brought to the White House. Through cooperation with the Kennedy Library, the authors have access to rare and previously unpublished photos and stories that present a fascinating angle about the Kennedys that is deeply revealing about their character and compassion. Books will be available for purchase and signing after the talk. Registration is required.

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Don’t forget, May is Food for Fines Month!

Clear your fines! The Library is accepting donations of food and toiletries to benefit the Cheshire Food Pantry. Donations will clear fines on materials that have been
returned. Click here for details.

 

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in April

Spring is in the air and we’re getting back to nature at CPL this month with lots of programs about the natural world. We’ve also got some interesting wellness programs on the calendar, and a new lunchtime book club! Here are just a few of this month’s programs, head to the Event Calendar to see everything we’ve got in store for April.

Insomnia and Your Health

Monday, April 1, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Wellness Coach Cynthia Griffin will discuss how insomnia can cause a host of symptoms including weight gain, inflammation and lowered immune system. During this lecture, she will present natural tips from Ayurveda to help you ease into a better night’s sleep. Registration is required.

New Movie Thursday:  Aquaman

Thursday, April 4, 2019, 5:30 – 8:00pm

April’s New Movie is Aquaman! Arthur Curry discovers that he is the true ruler to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis. Now he must leave his old life behind to become a hero, keeping not just his underwater city at peace but the whole world. Rated PG-13. Registration is appreciated for this adult program.

Open Art Studio in the Library Loft

Fridays,  April 5, 12, 26, 2019, 1:00 – 3:00pm

Bring your works in progress and supplies (no turpentine, please) to this 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.  No registration required.

Empower Yourself by Letting Go

Wednesday, April 10, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

We often hold on tightly to old patterns, thoughts, people and things for false security and a misplaced sense of comfort. How would it feel to dig a little deeper and see things as they really are. Wellness Coach Cynthia Griffin will explain how habits can influence our lives and how the “letting go process” can open us up to new and greater opportunities for better health and happiness. Registration is required.

Thursday Evening Gardening Programs

Raised Flower Beds : Thursday, April 11, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Introduction to Gardening : Thursday, April 18, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Cordalie Benoit of the Connecticut Community Garden Association will discuss the benefits of raised flower beds and gardening basics in these two programs. Please register for each program individually.

Library After Hours: 80s Night with The Future Heavies

Friday, April 12, 2019, 5:00 – 7:30pm

Join us for a fun family evening featuring the Future Heavies band performing all of your favorite 80s songs,  dancing, face-painting and 80s-themed games!  Don’t forget to wear your favorite 80s outfits –prizes will be awarded for best costumes–er, clothes! Pizza and drinks will be provided by the Friends of the Library. There is no admission fee or cost for refreshments, but donations to the Friends are appreciated and help defray the cost of these special events. Please register so that we know how many goodies to have!

Concert: Bluegrass, Blues and Americana

Saturday, April 13, 2019, 2:00 – 3:30pm

The BluesGrass acoustic duo of Mark White (guitar, harmonica, vocals) and Jon Swift (upright bass, vocals) presents an “Americana” mix of bluegrass, blues, and oldies featuring strong duet vocals and powerful instrumentals.  No registration required.

Experience Nature as Healer

Tuesday, April 16, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Discover how everyday, anywhere, nature can guide, calm, inform, and restore you. Marlow Shami BFA, M.S. is a nature-based teacher, artist, healer and writer who conducts Nature as Healer workshops and talks throughout New England. She specializes in the healing connection between humans and the natural world. Registration is required.

Birds & Butterflies on Wednesday Evenings

Butterflies in My Backyard : Wednesday, April 17, 2019, 7:00 – 8:00pm

Birding in Connecticut : Wednesday, April 24, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

On the 17th, noted lepidopterist and Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History research affiliate, Victor DeMasi will take the audience on a virtual sunny day walk through his butterfly meadow in Redding, Connecticut, and will share an impressive display of specimens from the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.  Then on the 24th,  join Frank Gallo, author of the new book, Birding in Connecticut, for a virtual journey to a variety of Connecticut’s birding locales, from hot spots to less-known gems. Please register for each program individually.

Gardening As If the World Depends on Us

Tuesday, April 23, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Worried about the world? Take action! Actually, just by being a gardener, you are already making a big difference. Want to do more? Gardens offer so many opportunities to link with nature and rescue the world. What can you do to help? Everything! This lecture by Tovah Martin (author of more than a dozen gardening books) is filled with ideas from gardeners who rallied their acreage in backyards large and small to make a difference. Registration is required.

Books Over Coffee

Wednesday, April 24, 2019, 12:00 – 1:30pm

Want to engage in great discussions about books? Meet new people? Eat lunch with friends? Join us for a new adult monthly book club program called “Books Over Coffee.”  On the last Wednesday of every month we’ll meet to discuss the selected title. Books are available each month ahead of time, and will be available in audio & ebook format. Clock Dance by Anne Tyler is our April selection. You bring your lunch, we’ll provide the coffee and tea. Registration is required.

A Practical Guide for Building Wealth (author talk)

Thursday, April 25, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Kevin Daniels, the author of “A Practical Guide For Growing Wealth” will be at  speak about this new exciting book. Kevin is the current President of Tribute Financial in Wallingford. During this evening Kevin will introduce his new book and will point out some highlights of growing wealth. Come and spend an hour to make your financial future brighter! Registration is required.

Create Mother’s Day Cards

Monday, April 29, 2019, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Join Sue Bernier and create beautiful Mother’s Day Cards. You will use rubber stamps, ink and Stampin’Up products to create your cards. This program is geared toward adults and registration is required.

What’s Happening at Cheshire Library in June

We’re starting off the summer with a lot of great programs for all ages – including a Civil War series and the Summer Reading kickoff party!

DSC_0454Color Yourself Calm

Thursday Jun 2, 2016,  6:00  –  8:00 PM

De-stress your busy life with a relaxing night of coloring. We’ll provide coloring pages and supplies, but feel free to bring your own pages, art supplies.     This adult only program meets the first Thursday of every month. Please register on our website.

Mary-Todd-Lincoln-5-14-13-300x225-1c1d670cdc75d0811de2ff7dd5176c73-200x156-100-cropMeet Mary Todd Lincoln

Thursday Jun 2, 2016,  7:00  –  8:00 PM

Listen to the personal account of her extraordinary life as first lady and wife of President Abraham  Lincoln. Presented by Carol Deleppo. Part of our three part series in honor of the 150th Anniversary Commemoration of the Cheshire’s Civil War Monument.  Please register on our website.

11140269_574342509385891_2126848489443040348_n-e1446648369259Adult Knitting Night

Wednesday June 8 & 22, 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Come socialize, learn, and share your techniques with other knitters.  Experience the relaxing and calming effect of knitting. We meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. Advanced adult knitters welcome, no supplies or instruction will be given.  Please bring your own supplies and talent, register on our website.

spaghetti_eddie_041_resizeSpaghetti Eddie

Wednesday Jun 15, 2016, 6:00 PM

Ryan SanAngelo, local children’s author, music performer, and all around cool guy will be visiting the Cheshire Public Library on Wednesday June 15 at 6:00 pm. Ryan SanAngelo will read his books, Spaghetti Eddie and Bye Bye Balloon. He’ll also rock the house with his exciting and engaging children’s music. Come be delighted with fun stories. Plus join the dance party!

Screen Shot 2016-05-11 at 2.58.00 PMOff The Beaten Track In The Civil War

Thursday Jun 16, 2016, 7:00  –  8:00 PM

Places like Fort Sumter, Gettysburg and Vicksburg and people like Gens. Grant and Lee get most of the attention, but the four years of the Civil War produced all kinds of small and almost forgotten incidents and people whose stories also deserve retelling. Come hear captivating untold stories of these soldiers from local author Neil Hogan. Part of our three part series in honor of the 150th Anniversary Commemoration of the Cheshire’s Civil War Monument.  Please register on our website.

CircleofFriends420of2091Circle of Friends Music

Friday Jun 17, 2016, 10:00 AM

Grab a friend and join us for a lively morning of music and movement! Young children learn best when using all their senses so engaging in a class that provides visual, auditory, physical and tactile stimulation is extremely beneficial for overall growth.
This family music program is best for kids ages 0-5 and their grownups. Presented by Felice Danielson, Director of Circle of Friends Music. Registration required. Register online beginning May 30 for Cheshire residents and June 6 for all others.

indexZumba for Kids

Friday Jun 17, 2016, 1:00  –  2:00 PM

Zumba® is an easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired dance-fitness program. Classes specifically for kids are formatted in a way to make getting fit fun. Kids can just let loose and be themselves. It’s referred to as the exercise in disguise. It’s an hour filled with energy and routines created to the latest music, like hip-hop, reggaeton and cumbia. Zumba® also increases focus and self-confidence, boosts metabolism, and improves coordination and balance. For all ages. (Parents and/or caregivers are welcome to participate with their children.) No Registration Required.

anime-clubCheshire Anime Club

Friday Jun 17, 2016, 3:00  –  4:30 PM

Konnichiwa, minna-san! Can’t get enough Anime and Manga? Be an “Otaku” and join the Cheshire Anime Club! We meet monthly, read and talk about what’s hot in the world of Manga, and watch some of the latest Anime releases on the big screen! Japanese snacks (like Ramune and Pocky) will be available for refreshments. For grades 7 -12, no registration required.

clip-art-magic-tricks-857117Magic Workshop for Kids

Saturday Jun 18, 2016,  10:00 AM

This magic workshop will teach kids magic tricks. Learn the “secret” to the tricks and then perform them for the other participants!  Please bring a deck of cards if you can. For ages 8 and up.  Register online beginning on May 28 for Cheshire residents and June 4 for all others.

{E1031EA9-496A-4F3B-A144-A9CC62CAAC8F}_SlimeTimeSlime Storytime (Grades K-2)

Mondays, Jun 20 – Jul 25, 2016, 6:00  –  7:00 PM

Enjoy this special STEM based storytime where children going into grades K-2 will listen to stories and do experiments.  This will be a messy, hands on storytime so make sure to wear clothes you won’t mind get messy.  This event will meet June 20, 27, July 11, 18 and 25.  For kids entering grades K-2 in fall 2016.  Registration is required. Register online beginning May 30 for Cheshire residents and June 6 for all others.  You only need to register one time.

dance-party-onesieWild Rumpus Dance Party

Wednesday Jun 22, 2016, 10:00 AM

Dancing is a great way to bond with your child and burn a little energy at the same time. Not only are you having fun but you are developing helpful skills. Here are just a few skills children develop while dancing: balance, coordination, rhythm, social skills, self-esteem, body-awareness, listening skills, gross motor, and fine motor. For ages 1-3, no registration required.

zumba-logo-clipart-free-clip-art-imagesZumba!

Wednesday Jun 22, 2016, 6:00  –  7:00 PM

Have you been wondering what Zumba is and if it’s right for you? Zumba is a popular dance based fitness program inspired by Latin music and dance. It’s different, it’s fun, it’s effective and it’s easy to do. Come try it out! Zumba demonstration for ADULTS presented by Donna Paventy-certified Zumba instructor from the Cheshire Community YMCA.

imageSUMMER READING KICKOFF @ARTSPLACE!

Thursday Jun 23, 2016, 6:00  –  8:00 PM

Join us for our Summer Reading kickoff hosted at Artsplace, 1220 Waterbury Road in Cheshire.  Express your inner artist and learn new art techniques with Artsplace artists, play with art robots, and use our green screen to make funny pictures and videos and learn to Hula with a professional Hula dancer. .  Light refreshments will be served. For all ages, no registration required.

P1220386Cheshire’s 150th Year Old Civil War Monument

Thursday Jun 23, 2016, 7:00  –  8:00 PM

Come hear Bob Larkin, address the upcoming commemoration of the Cheshire’s 150th Anniversary of the Civil War Monument, one of the first in the state and among the earliest in the nation.  Bob spearheaded having the only CT monument placed at Vicksburg National Military Park. Please register on our website.