Category Archives: Adult Event

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Summer 2024 Session

May 16th through June 27th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a warm summer evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Stay tuned via our website and/or eblasts for the selected articles to be discussed each week.

Register here!

Hybrid programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Summer 2024 Session

May 16th through June 27th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a warm summer evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Stay tuned via our website and/or eblasts for the selected articles to be discussed each week.

Register here!

Hybrid programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Summer 2024 Session

May 16th through June 27th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a warm summer evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Stay tuned via our website and/or eblasts for the selected articles to be discussed each week.

Register here!

Hybrid programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Summer 2024 Session

May 16th through June 27th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a warm summer evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Stay tuned via our website and/or eblasts for the selected articles to be discussed each week.

Register here!

Hybrid programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Summer 2024 Session

May 16th through June 27th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a warm summer evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Stay tuned via our website and/or eblasts for the selected articles to be discussed each week.

Register here!

Hybrid programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Summer 2024 Session

May 16th through June 27th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a warm summer evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Stay tuned via our website and/or eblasts for the selected articles to be discussed each week.

Register here!

Hybrid programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Summer 2024 Session

May 16th through June 27th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a warm summer evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Stay tuned via our website and/or eblasts for the selected articles to be discussed each week.

Register here and we will let you know when the first issue arrives.

Hybrid programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Shakespeare for Kids Presents: Romeo and Juliet

Join us at the Library as Shakespeare on the Sound presents its annual tour of Shakespeare for Kids! This year they are presenting a 30-minute version of Romeo and Juliet. This interactive production will have your children quoting Shakespeare without them even realizing it. Shakespeare on the Sound seamlessly combines the text of Shakespeare with everyday language in a fun and inventive way. By the way…when we say kids, we mean kids of all ages—from 5 to 95. All are welcome and encouraged!

Register here!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Shakespeare on the Sound Presents: Romeo and Juliet

Fun Facts About Romeo And Juliet:

  • Romeo and Juliet first meet on a Sunday evening. Four days later—on Wednesday evening—Romeo drinks poison and Juliet stabs herself. “Worst week ever,” as one Shakespearean scholar has put it.
  • Juliet is 13 years old. We don’t know Romeo’s age.
  • Dante first mentions the feud between the families in the early 1300’s.
  • In 1662 Mary Saunderson made stage history as the first woman to play Juliet, 150 years after London audiences first saw Shakespeare’s play with a boy playing Juliet.

Shakespeare on the Sound Education Director and Macbeth/Christmas Carol actor Nick Urda and board member/Shakespeare teacher John Love will guide you through Romeo and Juliet and, in an interactive presentation, hope to show you why Juliet and Romeo might be a more fitting title for the play. They’ll also have you asking: were they really in love?

This program comes to the library just in time for Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare on the Sound’s 28th annual summer production, in Rowayton’s Pinkney Park (June 12th through the 30th).

Register here!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, April 5, 12, 19, and 26

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, April 5, 12, 19, and 26

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, April 5, 12, 19, and 26

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, April 5, 12, 19, and 26

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Seed Saving 101

With the installation of our new seed library, it’s important to appreciate the value of seeds—what they are, what they can do, and what would happen to our planet without them.  Advanced Master Gardener Jackie Algon will show us how, as gardeners, we can make a difference by growing plant species that have been growing in our region for millennia, and then collecting, drying, cleaning, and saving seeds from those plants after they have bloomed for future use. It’s a formula for continuing the diversity and ecology of not only those plants, but of the insects, birds, and other wildlife that depend upon the seeds for completion of their life cycles.

Jackie Algon is an Advanced Master Gardener who focuses her attention on conservation issues in our area. A founding member of the Pollinator Pathway, she serves on the Board, and enjoys providing education to the public on the importance of native plants, the impact of invasive species and related topics. Jackie served on and chaired the Wilton Conservation Commission, the Wilton Tree Committee and the Wilton Garden Club Conservation Committee, and continues learning about New Best Practices to help our environment both in public locations and at home.

Register here!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Creating a Compelling College Application

 A program for parents and their high school juniors

Ron Feuchs and Jackie Tepper, partners at Stand Out For College, LLC are offering and will lead this Zoom presentation to help high school juniors and their parents understand how to use the summer productively to create a compelling college application.

They will cover the college application process including current admissions trends, writing the personal statement essay and supplemental essays, teacher recommendations and how students can position themselves to increase their chances for admission. We’ll discuss how the Supreme Court decision has impacted the college admissions process and how a student’s ability to express their insights, experiences and personal growth through their application essays are more important than ever before.

They will discuss application strategies including the advantages and disadvantages of early decision, early action, and regular decision. They’ll review what factors students should consider in deciding whether or not to submit their standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) for test-optional colleges and universities. They’ll also discuss the different ways that students can be admitted to a particular school.

They’ll examine the holistic admissions review process, what admissions officers consider important when they review applicants, and how students can position themselves to develop a compelling narrative to increase their chances for admission.

They will also discuss the importance of community service, how it can provide an opportunity for personal growth and an opportunity to showcase a student’s character. Admissions officers place great emphasis on a student’s character and how the student has been able to give back and help others.

This program is a detailed and strategic overview of what students should focus on to make their college applications compelling.

Register here!

Presentation will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

Asian American Representation in Literature: An Author Talk with Rebecca F. Kuang

We welcome you to register for a thrilling conversation with Rebecca F. Kuang (R.F. Kuang) as she chats with us about her New York Times bestselling novel, YellowfaceYellowface grapples with questions of diversity, racism, and cultural appropriation, as well as the terrifying alienation of social media.

In Yellowface, Authors June Hayward and Athena Liu were supposed to be twin rising stars. But Athena’s a literary darling. June Hayward is literally nobody. Who wants stories about basic white girls, June thinks.

So when June witnesses Athena’s death in a freak accident, she acts on impulse: she steals Athena’s just-finished masterpiece, an experimental novel about the unsung contributions of Chinese laborers during World War I.

So what if June edits Athena’s novel and sends it to her agent as her own work? So what if she lets her new publisher rebrand her as Juniper Song—complete with an ambiguously ethnic author photo? Doesn’t this piece of history deserve to be told, whoever the teller? That’s what June claims, and the New York Times bestseller list seems to agree.

But June can’t get away from Athena’s shadow, and emerging evidence threatens to bring June’s (stolen) success down around her. As June races to protect her secret, she discovers exactly how far she will go to keep what she thinks she deserves.

White lies, dark humor, and deadly consequences await within the pages of Yellowface. With its totally immersive first-person voice, Kuang’s novel is timely, razor-sharp, and eminently readable.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Rebecca F. Kuang is the award-winning, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Poppy War trilogy, Babel: An Arcane History, and Yellowface. A Marshall Scholar, she has an MPhil in Chinese Studies from Cambridge and an MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies from Oxford; she is now pursuing a PhD in East Asian Languages and Literatures at Yale, where she studies diaspora, contemporary Chinese literature, and Asian American literature.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

A Murder Mystery, Family Story, & Love Letter to Strong Women Everywhere: Author Talk w/ Nina Simon

Nothing brings a family together like a murder next door.

You’re invited to join Nina Simon online as she chats about her lighthearted whodunnit about a grandmother-mother-daughter trio of amateur sleuths, Mother-Daughter Murder Night.

Mother-Daughter Murder Night follows high-powered business woman Lana Rubicon. She has a lot to be proud of with her keen intelligence, impeccable taste, and the L.A. real estate empire she’s built. But when she finds herself trapped 300 miles north of the city, convalescing in a sleepy coastal town with her adult daughter Beth and teenage granddaughter Jack, Lana is stuck counting otters instead of square footage—and hoping that boredom won’t kill her before the cancer does.

In a turn of events, when Jack happens upon a dead body while kayaking she quickly becomes a suspect in the homicide investigation, and the Rubicon women are thrown into chaos. Beth thinks Lana should focus on recovery, but Lana has a better idea. She’ll pull on her wig, find the true murderer, protect her family, and prove she still has power. With Jack and Beth’s help, Lana uncovers a web of lies, family vendettas, and land disputes lurking beneath the surface of a community populated by folksy conservationists and wealthy ranchers. But as their amateur snooping advances into ever-more dangerous territory, the headstrong Rubicon women must learn to do the one thing they’ve always resisted: depend on each other.

Harness your inner detective and sign up for the investigation.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Nina Simon writes crime fiction about strong women. She is the New York Times-bestselling debut author of Mother-Daughter Murder Night. This big-hearted whodunnit is a Reese’s Book Club pick and a “best of 2023” selection for Amazon, Barnes & Noble, CrimeReads, and LibraryJournal.

Before turning to fiction, Nina wore many hats: NASA engineer, slam poet, game designer, museum director, and nonprofit CEO. Her work on community participation in museums, libraries, parks, and theaters has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the New York TimesNPR, and the TEDx stage.

Mother-Daughter Murder Night is Nina’s first novel. She wrote it as a love letter to her mother, as a way to entertain, comfort, and connect with her during a major health crisis. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nina now lives off-the-grid in the Santa Cruz Mountains with her family. More information can be found on her website, ninaksimon.com.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium.

Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I – An Author Talk with Douglas Brunt

Join us as we chat with New York Times bestselling author, Douglas Brunt, about instant bestselling debut non-fiction work The Mysterious Case of Rudolph Diesel: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I. This book reveals the hidden history of Rudolf Diesel, one of the world’s greatest inventors, and his mysterious disappearance on the eve of World War I.

September 29, 1913: the steamship Dresden is halfway between Belgium and England. On board is one of the most famous men in the world, Rudolf Diesel, whose new internal combustion engine is on the verge of revolutionizing global industry forever. But Diesel never arrives at his destination. He vanishes during the night and headlines around the world wonder if it was an accident, suicide, or murder.

After rising from an impoverished European childhood, Diesel had become a multi-millionaire with his powerful engine that does not require expensive petroleum-based fuel. In doing so, he became not only an international celebrity but also the enemy of two extremely powerful men -– Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany and John D. Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil and the richest man in the world. The Kaiser wanted the engine to power a fleet of submarines that would finally allow him to challenge Great Britain’s Royal Navy. But Diesel had intended for his engine to be used for the betterment of the world.

Brunt reopens the case and provides a compelling new conclusion about Diesel’s fate. Register here to see how the mystery unfolds! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Douglas Brunt is the New York Times bestselling author of The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel and host of the top-rated SiriusXM author podcast Dedicated with Doug Brunt. A Philadelphia native, he lives in Connecticut with his wife and three children. Visit DouglasBrunt.com for more information.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

A Literary Examination of Power, Love, and Art with Xochitl Gonzalez

We cannot wait for you to join us as we chat with award-winning and bestselling author Xochitl Gonzalez about her newest novel Anita de Monte Laughs Last. 

Anita de Monte Laughs Last is a propulsive, witty examination of power, love, and art, daring to ask who gets to be remembered and who is left behind in the rarefied world of the elite. In 1985. Anita de Monte, a rising star in the art world, is found dead in New York City; her tragic death is the talk of the town. Until it isn’t. By 1998 Anita’s name had been all but forgotten―certainly by the time Raquel, a third-year art history student was preparing her final thesis. On College Hill, surrounded by privileged students whose futures are already paved out for them, Raquel feels like an outsider. Students of color, like her, are the minority there, and the pressure to work twice as hard for the same opportunities is no secret. But when Raquel becomes romantically involved with a well-connected older art student, she finds herself unexpectedly rising up the social ranks. As she attempts to straddle both worlds, she stumbles upon Anita’s story, raising questions about the dynamics of her own relationship, which eerily mirrors that of the forgotten artist.

Moving back and forth through time and told from the perspectives of both Anita and Raquel, this is sure a novel (and a conversation) that you don’t want to miss.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Xochitl Gonzalez is the New York Times bestselling author of Olga Dies Dreaming. Named Best of 2022 by The New York Times, TIMEKirkusWashington Post, and NPROlga Dies Dreaming was the winner of the Brooklyn Public Library Book Prize in Fiction and the New York City Book Award. Gonzalez is a 2021 MFA graduate from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Her nonfiction work has been published in Elle DecorAllure, VogueReal Simple, and The Cut. Her commentary writing for The Atlantic was recognized as a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. A native Brooklynite and proud public school graduate, Gonzalez holds a BA from Brown University and lives in her hometown of Brooklyn with her dog, Hectah Lavoe.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

From Murder to Atonement–Confronting My Son’s Killer with Diane Foley & Colum McCann

Join us for a one-of-a-kind conversation with National Book Award-winner Colum McCann as he is joined by Diane Foley, the inspiration behind the heartrending book American Mother.

American Mother is the story of a mother who, in the course of confronting her son’s killer, gets to the elemental heart of violence and forgiveness. Diane Foley is the mother of Jim, a freelance journalist captured and beheaded by ISIS in 2014, an image that became one of the most iconic of the 21st century. Seven years later, Diane gets the chance to spend three days with the murderer of her son in a Virginia courthouse, inspiring her to tell her life story. What unfolds is one of the most compelling narratives in recent literary history, channeled into searing reality by New York Times bestselling author Colum McCann, who brings us on a journey of strength, resilience, and radical empathy. You are sure to be moved by McCann’s writing and Foley’s uncompromising love.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Authors:

Colum McCann is the author of seven novels, three collections of stories and two works of non-fiction. Born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, he has been the recipient of many international honors, including the U.S National Book Award, the International Dublin Literary Prize, a Chevalier des Arts et Lettres from the French government, election to the Irish Arts Academy, several European awards, the 2010 Best Foreign Novel Award in China, and an Oscar nomination. In 2017 he was elected to the American Academy of Arts.  His work has been published in over 40 languages.  He is the President and co-founder of the non-profit global story exchange organization, Narrative 4. He is the Thomas Hunter Writer in Residence in Hunter College, in New York, where he lives with his wife Allison and their family.  His most recent novel, Apeirogon, became an immediate New York Times best-seller and won several major international awards.  His first major non-fiction book, American Mother, will be published in March 2024.

Diane M. Foley is the mother of five children, including American freelance conflict journalist James W. Foley. She founded the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation in September 2014, less than a month after his public execution. Diane is currently serving as the President and Executive Director of JWFLF. Since 2014, she has led JWFLF efforts to fund the start of Hostage US and the International Alliance for a Culture of Safety, ACOS. In 2015, she actively participated in the National Counterterrorism Center hostage review which culminated in the Presidential Policy Directive-30. This directive re-organized US efforts on behalf of Americans taken hostage abroad into an interagency Hostage Recovery Fusion Cell, Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs and a Hostage Recovery Group at the White House. Previously, Diane worked first as a community health nurse and then as a family nurse practitioner for 18 years. She received both her undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of New Hampshire in Durham, NH.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

The Foods, People, and Innovations That Feed Us–A Sweeping History of Food and Culture with Smithsonian Curator Paula J. Johnson

Virtually step into the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History with Curator Paula Johnson as she discusses the book Smithsonian American Table: The Foods, People, and Innovations That Feed Us.

American Table is a sweeping history of food and culture that summons everyone to the table for a fresh look at some of the people, ingredients, events, and movements that have shaped how and what we eat.

Johnson, curator and project director of the American Food History Project, will discuss several stories featured in the volume, with an emphasis on those that intersect most directly with the Smithsonian’s research, collecting, and programming around food history.

During this event, Johnson will engage viewers in discovering the connections between food and American history:

  • How immigration and migration has shaped (and continues to shape) American tables.
  • How food companies have influenced home cooks through advertising, from Jell-O salads to Crock-pots.
  • How individuals from Brownie Wise to James Beard and Julia Child inspired generations of cooks and eaters across the United States.
  • And show viewers how uniting in the kitchen can change the shape of our collective futures, specifically highlighting growers and chefs who are reclaiming and reinventing regional and cultural traditions, including Indigenous ingredients and cooking techniques.

After this enlightening, enriching, and entertaining webinar, you can cook your way through the recipes that are featured in the volume that reflect American history and culture. Hungry for more? Register here now! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Speaker: Paula Johnson is a Curator in the Division of Work and Industry at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and is responsible for strengthening and maintaining the food history and marine resources collections. She is also the Project Director for the Smithsonian’s multi-faceted American Food History Project and director and co-curator for the exhibition, FOOD: Transforming the American Table, which opened in 2012; a refresh of the exhibition was completed in 2019. As one of the curators who collected Julia Child’s home kitchen in 2001, she was also on the team that developed the exhibition Bon Appetit! Julia Child’s Kitchen at the Smithsonian, on view from 2002 to 2012. Over more than three decades at the Smithsonian, Johnson has collected a wide range of artifacts and archives reflecting the work and experiences of diverse Americans and communities.

Johnson has published books and articles on the Chesapeake Bay, maritime communities, and material culture, and has lectured widely on these and topics related to American food and wine history, field research, oral history recording, and community-based documentation. She is an inaugural member of the editorial collective for Gastronomica: The Journal for Food History and received the 2020 Smithsonian Distinguished Scholar in the Humanities Award. Johnson is working on a book about Julia Child’s home kitchen for publication in Fall 2024.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Chair Dance with Claudia

Using many different styles of music, Claudia’s motivating, high energy dance class includes a classic dance movement warm-up using a chair, light weight strengthening exercises, and a full body stretch, using the mind-body connection to make this class both inspirational and fun.

Sing a little, dance a lot, move to your fullest potential, while getting a light aerobic workout, as well as gaining strength, flexibility, and energy. Posture awareness is the focus of this combination of standing, dance and chair stretch. Work out at your own pace while gaining benefits of the group energy.

Register here for this 45 minute workout that is guaranteed to make you feel great!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Chair Dance with Claudia

Using many different styles of music, Claudia’s motivating, high energy dance class includes a classic dance movement warm-up using a chair, light weight strengthening exercises, and a full body stretch, using the mind-body connection to make this class both inspirational and fun.

Sing a little, dance a lot, move to your fullest potential, while getting a light aerobic workout, as well as gaining strength, flexibility, and energy. Posture awareness is the focus of this combination of standing, dance and chair stretch. Work out at your own pace while gaining benefits of the group energy.

Register here for this 45 minute workout that is guaranteed to make you feel great!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Chair Dance with Claudia

Using many different styles of music, Claudia’s motivating, high energy dance class includes a classic dance movement warm-up using a chair, light weight strengthening exercises, and a full body stretch, using the mind-body connection to make this class both inspirational and fun.

Sing a little, dance a lot, move to your fullest potential, while getting a light aerobic workout, as well as gaining strength, flexibility, and energy. Posture awareness is the focus of this combination of standing, dance and chair stretch. Work out at your own pace while gaining benefits of the group energy.

Register here for this 45 minute workout that is guaranteed to make you feel great!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Chair Dance with Claudia

Using many different styles of music, Claudia’s motivating, high energy dance class includes a classic dance movement warm-up using a chair, light weight strengthening exercises, and a full body stretch, using the mind-body connection to make this class both inspirational and fun.

Sing a little, dance a lot, move to your fullest potential, while getting a light aerobic workout, as well as gaining strength, flexibility, and energy. Posture awareness is the focus of this combination of standing, dance and chair stretch. Work out at your own pace while gaining benefits of the group energy.

Register here for this 45 minute workout that is guaranteed to make you feel great!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have four cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for the May 20 session here.

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have four cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each remaining individual May session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Harvest Every Drop

High school student Madeline Abrams has developed an environmentally friendly and economically accessible way to capture rainwater using otherwise discarded plastic water bottles to create an irrigation system for vegetable gardens, farms, and landscapes.

To recognize and celebrate Earth Day and also increase awareness around plastic waste and water conservation, join us to learn how you can create a rainwater harvesting system for your community.

By using empty water bottles, cutting them in half lengthwise, and connecting them with waterproof tape (or other available resources), Madeline has created a gutter system to capture the rainfall that comes off of a roof. She then uses plastic bottles to create a downspout to direct the water to a holding tank similar to a rain barrel. Her website, Harvest Every Drop, that she created to share her invention can be found here.

Madeline recently presented her rainwater harvesting system virtually to 45 communities in New York, California, Uganda, Namibia, Lesotho, Angola, and South Africa. Her invention is being shared with villages and communities as a way to conserve water and address the issue of upcycling plastic waste that has become a major problem in many parts of the world. An article about Madeline’s system was published earlier this month in an international Rotary magazine covering Uganda.

After the Zoom presentation, Madeline will share the instructional video she created as a reference to build her watering system to help communities harvest every drop.

Register here!

Presentation will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, March 1, 8, 15, and 29

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, March 1, 8, 15, and 29

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, March 1, 8, 15, and 29

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, March 1, 8, 15, and 29

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

**THIS IS AN INTRODUCTORY SERIES FOR BEGINNERS ONLY**

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 4 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Chair Dance with Claudia

Using many different styles of music, Claudia’s motivating, high energy dance class includes a classic dance movement warm-up using a chair, light weight strengthening exercises, and a full body stretch, using the mind-body connection to make this class both inspirational and fun.

Sing a little, dance a lot, move to your fullest potential, while getting a light aerobic workout, as well as gaining strength, flexibility, and energy. Posture awareness is the focus of this combination of standing, dance and chair stretch. Work out at your own pace while gaining benefits of the group energy.

Register here for this 45 minute workout that is guaranteed to make you feel great!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Chair Dance with Claudia

Using many different styles of music, Claudia’s motivating, high energy dance class includes a classic dance movement warm-up using a chair, light weight strengthening exercises, and a full body stretch, using the mind-body connection to make this class both inspirational and fun.

Sing a little, dance a lot, move to your fullest potential, while getting a light aerobic workout, as well as gaining strength, flexibility, and energy. Posture awareness is the focus of this combination of standing, dance and chair stretch. Work out at your own pace while gaining benefits of the group energy.

Register here for this 45 minute workout that is guaranteed to make you feel great!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Intro to Knitting for Adults

Join us for this 4-week introductory series with Rowayton Elementary School teacher and knitting enthusiast Alex Kaminski! She’ll cover the basics of knitting (like casting on, basic stitches, and binding off) and help guide you on your knitting journey. The needles and yarn are on us!

Space and supplies are limited so please register here!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Intro to Knitting for Adults

Join us for this 4-week introductory series with Rowayton Elementary School teacher and knitting enthusiast Alex Kaminski! She’ll cover the basics of knitting (like casting on, basic stitches, and binding off) and help guide you on your knitting journey. The needles and yarn are on us!

Space and supplies are limited so please register here!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Intro to Knitting for Adults

Join us for this 4-week introductory series with Rowayton Elementary School teacher and knitting enthusiast Alex Kaminski! She’ll cover the basics of knitting (like casting on, basic stitches, and binding off) and help guide you on your knitting journey. The needles and yarn are on us!

Space and supplies are limited so please register here!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Intro to Knitting for Adults

Join us for this 4-week introductory series with Rowayton Elementary School teacher and knitting enthusiast Alex Kaminski! She’ll cover the basics of knitting (like casting on, basic stitches, and binding off) and help guide you on your knitting journey. The needles and yarn are on us!

Space and supplies are limited so please register here!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Classics Book Club

What makes a book a “classic”? The writer Italo Calvino defined them this way: “A classic is a book which has never exhausted all it has to say to its readers.” In that spirit, the Classics Book Club reads and discusses novels that have become beloved over the years, whether they’re well-known staples or under-the-radar gems. We’ll read one classic or modern classic book  and engage in a lively discussion about the text in person at the Library!

Calling all fans of HBO’s “The Gilded Age”! For this meeting, we’ll be reading Edith Wharton’s 1913 The Custom of the Country, the book that’s widely considered to be her masterpiece. A satirical novel of manners, the book follows Undine Spragg as she tries to move from her nouveau riche roots in the Midwest to the rarefied old money society in New York. Vain, beautiful, and ruthlessly ambitious, Undine is both an unforgettable character and the lens through which Wharton takes a sharp look at marriage, divorce, money, and power.

Register here! Refreshments will be served.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Navigating College Admissions Successfully in 2024

 A program for parents and their high school teens

Ron Feuchs and Jackie Tepper, partners at Stand Out For College, LLC are offering and will lead this Zoom presentation to help families understand how the lingering effects from the pandemic have changed the college admissions landscape and how it affects Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen.

The recent college admissions cycle was the most competitive to date. With most colleges continuing their test-optional policies as well as increasing their virtual outreach to high school students, many schools had record numbers of applicants. Record high numbers of applications result in record low acceptance rates which is what most popular colleges and universities experienced this past admissions cycle.

Ron and Jackie will discuss current college admissions trends, the importance of researching and visiting colleges to find schools that can be a good fit for your child, a timeline and other action steps that can be taken to make this fall productive and help reduce the stress around the college admissions process.

They will examine the holistic admissions review process, what admissions officers consider important when they review applicants, and how students can position themselves to develop a compelling narrative to increase their chances for admission.

They will also discuss the importance of community service, how it can provide an opportunity for personal growth and a way to showcase a student’s character. Admissions officers place great emphasis on a student’s character and how the student has been able to give back and help others.

Register here!

Presentation will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

Great Decisions Discussion Group

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs and created by the Foreign Policy Association. This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year. The remaining topics and corresponding discussion meeting dates are:

  • Wednesday, March 20 – Understanding Indonesia
  • Wednesday, March 27 – High Seas Treaty
  • Wednesday, April 10 – Pandemic Preparedness

Rowayton resident Jim Frayer will facilitate discussions. Register here and pick up your briefing book at the library!

A video showing of the topic up for discussion will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every week. Actual discussion of the topic will begin at 7:00 p.m. Participants are invited to tune in to both!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for the March 25 session here.

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each remaining individual March session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each remaining individual March session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each individual March session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. session, click here.
To register for the 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. session, click here.
To register for the 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. session, click here.
To register for the 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. session, click here.
To register for the 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. session, click here.
To register for the 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

On Retelling Greek Classics: An Exploration of the Modern Epics with Madeline Miller

You’re invited to a fascinating exploratory conversation with Madeline Miller, bestselling author of The Song of Achilles and Circe, as she chats with us about her body of work and her process in retelling Greek classics into modern epics in fiction.

In The Song of Achilles, Achilles, “the best of all the Greeks,” son of the cruel sea goddess Thetis and the legendary king Peleus, is strong, swift, and beautiful, irresistible to all who meet him. Patroclus is an awkward young prince, exiled from his homeland after an act of shocking violence. Brought together by chance, they forge an inseparable bond, despite risking the gods’ wrath.

When word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, all the heroes of Greece are called upon to lay siege to Troy in her name. Seduced by the promise of a glorious destiny, Achilles joins their cause, and torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus follows. Little do they know that the cruel Fates will test them both as never before and demand a terrible sacrifice.

In Circe, to Helios, god of the sun and mightiest of the Titans, a daughter is born. But Circe is a strange child–neither powerful like her father nor viciously alluring like her mother. Turning to the world of mortals for companionship, she discovers that she does possess power: the power of witchcraft, which can transform rivals into monsters and menace the gods themselves.

Threatened, Zeus banishes her to a deserted island, where she hones her occult craft, tames wild beasts, and crosses paths with many of the most famous figures in all of mythology, including the Minotaur, Daedalus and his doomed son Icarus, the murderous Medea, and, of course, wily Odysseus. But there is danger, too, for a woman who stands alone, and Circe unwittingly draws the wrath of both men and gods, ultimately finding herself pitted against one of the most terrifying and vengeful of the Olympians. To protect what she loves most, Circe must summon all her strength and choose, once and for all, whether she belongs with the gods she is born from or with the mortals she has come to love.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Madeline Miller is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of two novels: The Song of Achilles, which won the Orange Women’s Prize for Fiction 2012, and Circe, which was short-listed for the Women’s Prize for Fiction 2019. Her books have been translated into over thirty two languages. Miller holds an MA in Classics from Brown University, studied in the Dramaturgy department at Yale School of Drama, where she focused on the adaptation of classical texts to modern forms, and taught Latin, Greek, and Shakespeare to high school students for over a decade.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

20 Years of Dragon-Riding in YA Fantasy with International Bestselling Author Christopher Paolini

Join us as we chat with master storyteller and internationally bestselling author Christopher Paolini about his return to the World of Eragon with Murtagh, a stunning continuation of the epic fantasy.

The world is no longer safe for the Dragon Rider Murtagh and his dragon, Thorn. An evil king has been toppled, and they are left to face the consequences of the reluctant role they played in his reign of terror. Now they are hated and alone, exiled to the outskirts of society.

Throughout the land, hushed voices whisper of brittle ground and a faint scent of brimstone in the air—and Murtagh senses that something wicked lurks in the shadows of Alagaësia. So begins an epic journey into lands both familiar and untraveled, where Murtagh and Thorn must use every weapon in their arsenal, from brains to brawn, to find and outwit a mysterious witch. A witch who is much more than she seems.

In this gripping novel starring one of the most popular characters from Christopher Paolini’s blockbuster Inheritance Cycle, a Dragon Rider must discover what he stands for in a world that has abandoned him.

Murtagh is the perfect book to enter the World of Eragon for the first time . . . or to joyfully return. Register now to join the fun!

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Christopher Paolini is the creator of the World of Eragon and the Fractalverse. His blockbuster series The Inheritance Cycle (Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, Inheritance) has sold more than 40 million copies worldwide. First published at 19, he is the holder of the Guinness World Record for youngest author of a bestselling series. Paolini is also the author of two adult science fiction novels, To Sleep in a Sea of Stars and the forthcoming Fractal Noise. Christopher makes his home in Paradise Valley, Montana, where he continues to write stories and ask questions. Find out more about Christopher and all things Inheritance Cycle on social media and at paolini.net.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

The Power of Friendships with NPR Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg

You are invited to an intimate conversation with Nina Totenberg as she talks about her nearly fifty-year friendship with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her book Dinners With Ruth: A Memoir on the Power of Friendships.

Four years before Nina Totenberg was hired at NPR, where she cemented her legacy as a prizewinning reporter, and nearly twenty-two years before Ruth Bader Ginsburg was appointed to the Supreme Court, Nina called Ruth. A reporter for The National Observer, Nina was curious about Ruth’s legal brief, asking the Supreme Court to do something to declare law that discriminated “on the basis of sex” to be unconstitutional. In a time when women were fired for becoming pregnant, often could not apply for credit cards or get a mortgage in their own names, Ruth patiently explained her argument. That call launched a remarkable, nearly fifty-year friendship.

Dinners with Ruth is an extraordinary account of two women who paved the way for future generations by tearing down professional and legal barriers. It is also an intimate memoir of the power of friendships as women began to pry open career doors and transform the workplace. At the story’s heart is one, special Ruth and Nina saw each other not only through personal joys, but also illness, loss, and widowhood. During the devastating illness and eventual death of Nina’s first husband, Ruth drew her out of grief; twelve years later, Nina would reciprocate when Ruth’s beloved husband died. They shared not only a love of opera, but also of shopping, as they instinctively understood that clothes were armor for women who wanted to be taken seriously in a workplace dominated by men. During Ruth’s last year, they shared so many small dinners that Saturdays were “reserved for Ruth” in Nina’s house. Dinners with Ruth also weaves together compelling, personal portraits of other fascinating women and men from Nina’s life, including her cherished NPR colleagues Cokie Roberts and Linda Wertheimer; her beloved husbands; her friendships with multiple Supreme Court Justices, including Lewis Powell, William Brennan, and Antonin Scalia, and Nina’s own family—her father, the legendary violinist Roman Totenberg, and her “best friends,” her sisters.

Celebrated NPR correspondent Nina Totenberg delivers an extraordinary memoir of her personal successes, struggles, and life-affirming relationships. Inspiring and revelatory, Dinners with Ruth is a moving story of the joy and true meaning of friendship.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: NINA TOTENBERG is NPR’s award-winning legal affairs correspondent. She appears on NPR’s critically acclaimed news magazines All Things ConsideredMorning Edition, and Weekend Edition, and on NPR podcasts, including The NPR Politics Podcast and its series, “The Docket.” Totenberg’s Supreme Court and legal coverage has won her every major journalism award in broadcasting. Recognized seven times by the American Bar Association for continued excellence in legal reporting, she has received more than two dozen honorary degrees. A frequent TV contributor, she writes for major newspapers, magazines, and law reviews.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 3 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, February 9, 16, and 23

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 3 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

Take Your Child to the Library Day

Take Your Child to the Library Day (TYCLD) is an international initiative that encourages families everywhere to take their children to their local library. Launched in 2011 in Connecticut by librarians Nadine Lipman (Waterford Public Library, retired) and Caitlin Augusta (Stratford Library) with artist Nancy Elizabeth Wallace, TYCLD raises community awareness about the importance of the library in the life of a child, and promotes library services and programs for children and families.

Join the Rowayton Library in celebrating the 13th anniversary of this day on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024! Stop by the Rowayton Library and Rowayton Community Center with your child or children to enjoy fun activities, story times with our trustees, featured book displays, snacks, and lots more library fun!

Story times will take place every half hour beginning at 11:00 a.m.

No registration required!

Exploring Identity, Love, and Being Black in America in Fiction Writing: A Conversation with Award-Winning Author Jason Mott

You’re invited to join us as we talk to New York Times bestselling author Jason Mott about his recent novel Hell of a Book. This magnificent work of fiction is deeply honest, at times electrically funny, and is a book that goes to the heart of racism, police violence, and the hidden costs exacted upon Black Americans and America as a whole.

In Hell of a Book, a Black author sets out on a cross-country publicity tour to promote his bestselling novel. That storyline drives Hell of a Book and is the scaffolding of something much larger and more urgent: Mott’s novel also tells the story of Soot, a young Black boy living in a rural town in the recent past, and The Kid, a possibly imaginary child who appears to the author on his tour.

As these characters’ stories build and converge, they astonish. While this heartbreaking and magical book entertains and is at once about family, love of parents and children, art and money, it’s also about the nation’s reckoning with a tragic police shooting playing over and over again on the news. And with what it can mean to be Black in America.

Unforgettably told, with an electrifying plot and characters who burn into your mind, Hell of a Book is the novel Mott has been writing in his head for the last ten years. And in its final twists, it truly becomes its title.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Jason Mott is the author of two poetry collections and four novels. His first novel, The Returned, was adapted for television and aired on ABC under the title “Resurrection.” Since then, his novels that followed have received various accolades and acclaim. His most recent novel, Hell of a Book, won the Sir Walter Raleigh Award for Fiction Winner, was a Carnegie Medals For Excellence Longlist nominee, and the winner of the 2021 National Book Award for Fiction. He lives in hermitude in Southeastern North Carolina.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Spice, Spirit, and Swoon–A Guaranteed Happily Ever After with Rom-Com Author Tessa Bailey

Join us as the #1 New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey talks about the launch of her new super hot sports romance duology with a rom-com about a bad boy professional athlete who falls for his biggest fan in her new book Fangirl Down.

Wells Whitaker was once golf’s hottest rising star, but lately, all he has to show for his “promising” career is a killer hangover, a collection of broken clubs, and one remaining supporter. No matter how bad he plays, the beautiful, sunny redhead is always on the sidelines. He curses, she cheers. He scowls, she smiles. But when Wells quits in a blaze of glory, and his fangirl finally goes home, he knows he made the greatest mistake of his life.

Josephine Doyle believed in the gorgeous, grumpy golfer, even when he didn’t believe in himself. Yet after he throws in the towel, she begins to wonder if her faith was misplaced. Then a determined Wells shows up at her door with a wild proposal: be his new caddy, help him turn his game around, and split the prize money. And considering Josephine’s professional and personal life is in shambles, she could really use the cash…

As they travel together, spending days on the green and nights in neighboring hotel rooms, sparks fly. Before long, they’re inseparable, Wells starts winning again, and Josephine is surprised to find a sweet, thoughtful guy underneath his gruff, growly exterior. But Wells is technically her boss, and an athlete falling for his fangirl would be ridiculous… right? You’ll have to register to find out!

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: #1 New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue-collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island, avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon, and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

Friday, February 9, 16, and 23

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a fun and fascinating tile game. Over these three sessions, new players will be taught the basics of understanding the tiles and the Mah Jongg card. You’ll soon be throwing out phrases like 6Bam! 2Crak! Green Dragon! and Mah Jongg! Rules and strategies of play as well as game etiquette will be covered.

Space is very limited for this program so please only register here you can commit to all 3 weeks.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

 

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Selected articles from the March 4th issue for the March 7th meeting:

  • Page 7 and Page 8 – Talk of the Town: David Remnick on Russia and Navalny; diving the Hudson
  • Page 12 – Identity Crisis: The professor whose native ancestry proved false by Jay Caspian Kang
  • Page 26 – Starburst: Are we ready for a solar-storm disaster? by Kathryn Schulz
  • Page 32 – Poem: “Eat” by Jo Harjo
  • Page 48 – Poem: “Light Ghazal” by Hala Alyan
  • Page 52 – Books: Can Byron be saved from the Byronic? by Anthony Lane
  • Page 59 – Books: The long adolescence of Carson McCullers by Maggie Doherty

Register here!

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Selected articles from the February 26ht issue for the February 29th meeting:

  • Page 7 and 8 – Talk of the Town: Dhruv Khullar on the issue of President Biden’s age, and the essence of Gwyneth
  • Page 12 – In the Weeds: The lows of trying to sell legal marijuana in New York by Jia Tolentino
  • Page 20 – Skin in the Game: The market for one-of-a-kind snakes by Rebecca Giggs
  • Page 28 – The Chaos Agent: How Matt Gaetz has thrived in a dysfunctional Congress by Dexter Filkins
  • Page 63 – Books: Looking back at 2020 by Adam Gopnik
  • Page 68 – Books: The book during centuries of wartime by Claudia Roth Pierpont

Register here!

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Selected articles from the February 12th & 19th issue for the February 22nd meeting:

  • Page 34 – The Oligarch’s Son: A teenager’s double identity by Patrick Radden Keefe
  • Page 56 – Poem: “Definition” by Michael Ondaatje
  • Page 74 – Fiction: “That Girl” by Addie Citchens
  • Page 83 – Books: The nature of female violence by Alexandra Schwartz
  • Page 98 – The Theatre: “Days of Wine and Roses” and “The Animal Kingdom”
  • Page 100 – The Current Cinema: “The Taste of Things”, “Ennio”

Register here!

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Selected articles from the February 12th & 19th issue for the February 15th meeting:

  • Page 14 – The Talk of the Town: Pro-Whistling
  • Page 26 – The Friendship Challenge: On rivalry between girls by Mary Gaitskill
  • Page 50 – The Art of Change: Thelma Golden and the transformation of the Studio Museum by Calvin Tomkins
  • Page 62 – Last Resort: Inside a late-term abortion clinic by Maggie Shannon with Margaret Talbot
  • Page 89 – Books: What Baruch Spinoza teaches us by Adam Kirsch
  • Page 96 – On Television: Capote among the swans by Inkoo Kang

Register here!

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Selected articles from the February 5th issue for the February 8th meeting:

  • Page 7 – Talk of the Town: Amy Davidson Sorkin on the Trump veepstakes
  • Page 12 – Letter from Vermont: A Slippery Slope by Sheelah Kolhatkar
  • Page 20 – The Control of Nature: Burn Notice by Elizabeth Kolbert
  • Page 24 – Annals of Music: The Next Scene by John Seabrook
  • Page 34 – A Reporter at Large: Democracy in Darkness by Masha Gessen

Register here!

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Selected articles from the January 29th issue for the February 1st meeting:

  • Page 14 – Goodyear: Tires, toenails, and a lifelong friendship by David Sedaris
  • Page 18 – Ruling Class Rules: How to thrive in the elite – while bashing it by Evan Osnos
  • Page 36 – Cave Woman: She lived underground for five hundred days by D.T. Max
  • Page 46 – Fiction: “Poor Houdini” by Anne Carson
  • Page 56 – Books: The architect of today’s divided Supreme Court by Jill Lepore

Register here!

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us. Selected articles from the January 22 issue for the January 25 meeting:

  • Page 12 – Detail Oriented: Jacqueline Novak’s precision comedy by Carrie Battan
  • Page 20 – Do No Harm: An addiction initiative in Oregon by E. Tammy Kim
  • Page 26 – Hostages: As Gaza burns, Netanyahu clings to power by David Remnick
  • Page 55 – Can I.P. survive A.I.? by Louis Menand
  • Page 61 – Books: What were witch trials really about? by Rivka Galchen

Register here!

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The New Yorker Discussion Group: Winter 2024 Session

January 18th through March 7th

Maybe you already have a subscription but only consistently glance at the cartoons? Or perhaps you yearn for in-depth reporting, written well without the prefab soundbites of TV news? Or you might just like to meet up with interesting individuals to talk about current events, the latest big hit on Broadway, upcoming museum exhibits worth a look all while enjoying a sip of wine and savory bites on a chilly winter evening.

The magazine issue is on us.

Register here!

Selected articles from the January 15th issue for the January 18th discussion:

  • Page 12 – The Long Way: Tales of a teen-age wanderer by Jon Lee Anderson
  • Page 20 – Showing Up: How should we tackle school absenteeism? by Alec MacGillis
  • Page 50 – Empire as seen by Frantz Fanon and Ian Fleming by Daniel Immerwahr
  • Page 34 – Shamelessly Dramatic: The playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins by Julian Lucas
  • Page 58 – Bijayini Satpathy and Indian classical dance by Jennifer Homans

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Great Decisions Discussion Group

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs and created by the Foreign Policy Association. This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year. The remaining topic and corresponding discussion meeting date is:

  • Wednesday, April 10 – Pandemic Preparedness

Rowayton resident Jim Frayer will facilitate discussions. Register here and pick up your briefing book at the library!

A video showing of the topic up for discussion will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every week. Actual discussion of the topic will begin at 7:00 p.m. Participants are invited to tune in to both!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

Great Decisions Discussion Group

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs and created by the Foreign Policy Association. This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year. The remaining topics and corresponding discussion meeting dates are:

  • Wednesday, March 27 – High Seas Treaty
  • Wednesday, April 10 – Pandemic Preparedness

Rowayton resident Jim Frayer will facilitate discussions. Register here and pick up your briefing book at the library!

A video showing of the topic up for discussion will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every week. Actual discussion of the topic will begin at 7:00 p.m. Participants are invited to tune in to both!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

Chair Dance with Claudia

Using many different styles of music, Claudia’s motivating, high energy dance class includes a classic dance movement warm-up using a chair, light weight strengthening exercises, and a full body stretch, using the mind-body connection to make this class both inspirational and fun.

Sing a little, dance a lot, move to your fullest potential, while getting a light aerobic workout, as well as gaining strength, flexibility, and energy. Posture awareness is the focus of this combination of standing, dance and chair stretch. Work out at your own pace while gaining benefits of the group energy.

Register here for this 45 minute workout that is guaranteed to make you feel great!

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

The Lure and the Lies of Processed Food, Nutrition, and Modern Medicine: An Author Talk with Dr. Robert Lustig

Launch your New Year healthy with Dr. Robert Lustig, a pediatric neuroendocrinologist who has long been on the cutting edge of medicine and science. He challenges our current healthcare paradigm which has gone off the rails under the influence of Big Food, Big Pharma, and Big Government.

You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know what the problem is. One of Lustig’s singular gifts as a communicator is his ability to “connect the dots” for the general reader, in order to unpack the scientific data and concepts behind his arguments, as he tells the “real story of food” and “the story of real food.”

Dr. Lustig’s book, Metabolical: The Lure and the Lies of Processed Food, Nutrition, and Modern Medicine, weaves the interconnected strands of nutrition, health/disease, medicine, environment, and society into a completely new fabric by proving on a scientific basis a series of iconoclastic revelations, among them:

  • Medicine for chronic disease treats symptoms, not the disease itself
  • You can diagnose your own biochemical profile
  • Chronic diseases are not “druggable,” but they are “foodable”
  • Processed food isn’t just toxic, it’s addictive
  • The war between vegan and keto is a false war—the combatants are on the same side
  • Big Food, Big Pharma, and Big Government are on the other side

Making the case that food is the only lever we have to affect biochemical change to improve our health, Lustig explains what to eat based on two novel criteria: protect the liver, and feed the gut. He insists that if we do not fix our food and change the way we eat, we will continue to court chronic disease, bankrupt healthcare, and threaten the planet. But there is hope: his book and this webinar explain what’s needed to fix all three. Dr. Lustig offers a doable plan for us to heal and restore our health and well-being with real food and, in the process, boost our immunity to viruses like Covid-19.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Robert H. Lustig, M.D., M.S.L. is an Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology and a Member of the Institute for Health Policy Studies at UCSF. Dr. Lustig is a neuroendocrinologist with expertise in metabolism, obesity, and nutrition. He is one of the leaders of the current “anti-sugar” movement that is changing the food industry. He has dedicated his retirement from clinical medicine to help fix the food supply in any way he can, to reduce human suffering, and to salvage the environment. Dr. Lustig graduated from MIT in 1976 and received his M.D. from Cornell University Medical College in 1980. He also received his Masters of Studies in Law (MSL) degree at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law in 2013. He is the author of the popular books Fat Chance (2012), The Hacking of the American Mind (2017), and Metabolical: The Lure and the Lies of Processed Food, Nutrition, and Modern Medicine (2021). He is the Chief Science Officer of the non-profit Eat REAL, he is on the Advisory Boards of the UC Davis Innovation Institute for Food and Health, the Center for Humane Technology, Simplex Health, Levels Health, and ReadOut Health, and he is the Chief Medical Officer of BioLumen Technologies, Foogal, Perfact, and Kalin Health.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Your Retirement: Dream or Disaster? How to Avoid the Hidden Traps in Retirement Planning Advice

Start your New Year off right and learn how to avoid the hidden traps in retirement planning advice! Did you know that a large financial portfolio, an estate plan, and long-term care insurance won’t be enough to prevent your dream retirement from becoming a disaster in the United States? Or do you know someone forced into institutional care after a health crisis, lost assets due to unplanned medical and long-term care costs, or became a burden on loved ones? According to Elder Law Attorney and bestselling author Rajiv Nagaich, these results are called “retirement plan failure.”  Over his 20-plus years of experience in United States elder law, Rajiv has developed a step-by-step guide to retirement planning by connecting the various dots of the retirement planning process. The LifePlanning approach is a system that brings together legal, financial, and housing issues into a coordinated effort that can work to make sure you don’t end up being forced into institutionalized care, going broke, and being a burden on your family. In this enlightening and informative webinar, Rajiv explains why “retirement plan failure” happens and how you can keep it from happening to you.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Rajiv Nagaich, J.D. L.L.M., author of Your Retirement: Dream or Disaster, is an elder law attorney, speaker, and retirement planning visionary. He hosts two popular public television specials (Master Your Future and The Path to Happily Ever After) and the AgingOptions Radio Show, dispensing retirement planning advice to people in the Pacific Northwest for twenty years. Rajiv was inducted as a Fellow by the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) in 2014. He is a three-time NAELA Pacesetter Award winner and a commissioner at the Law and Aging Commission at the American Bar Association. Rajiv is the founding partner of Life Point Law in Federal Way, Washington, and the Chief Executive Officer of AgingOptions.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Embrace Love in the New Year: A Heartfelt Conversation with Rebecca Serle

Join us as we kick off the New Year talking to Rebecca Serle about her journey writing epic love stories to span generations. Learning the love story formula with Serle, we’ll chat with the author about her New York Times bestselling novels, One Italian SummerIn Five YearsThe Dinner List, and many more.

Additionally, in a special preview, Serle will briefly discuss her forthcoming novel (due out on March 5, 2024) Expiration Dates. In Expiration Dates, Daphne Bell believes the universe has a plan for her. Every time she meets a new man, she receives a slip of paper with his name and a number on it—the exact amount of time they will be together. The papers told her she’d spend three days with Martin in Paris; five weeks with Noah in San Francisco; and three months with Hugo, her ex-boyfriend turned best friend. Daphne has been receiving the numbered papers for over twenty years, always wondering when there might be one without an expiration. Finally, on the night of a blind date at her favorite Los Angeles restaurant, there’s only a name: Jake.

Told with her signature warmth and insight into matters of the heart, Rebecca Serle has finally set her sights on romantic love. The result is a gripping, emotional, passionate, and (yes) heartbreaking novel about what it means to be single, what it means to find love, and ultimately how we define each of them for ourselves. Expiration Dates is the one fans have been waiting for. Start your year with love and register now!

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Rebecca Serle is the New York Times bestselling author of Expiration DatesOne Italian SummerIn Five YearsThe Dinner List, and the young adult novels The Edge of Falling and When You Were Mine. Serle also developed the hit TV adaptation Famous in Love, based on her YA series of the same nameShe is a graduate of USC and The New School and lives in Los Angeles with her husband. Find out more at RebeccaSerle.com.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Navigating College Admissions Successfully in 2024

 A program for parents and their high school teens

Ron Feuchs and Jackie Tepper, partners at Stand Out For College, LLC are offering and will lead this Zoom presentation to help families understand how the lingering effects from the pandemic have changed the college admissions landscape and how it affects Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen.

The recent college admissions cycle was the most competitive to date. With most colleges continuing their test-optional policies as well as increasing their virtual outreach to high school students, many schools had record numbers of applicants. Record high numbers of applications result in record low acceptance rates which is what most popular colleges and universities experienced this past admissions cycle.

Ron and Jackie will discuss current college admissions trends, the importance of researching and visiting colleges to find schools that can be a good fit for your child, a timeline and other action steps that can be taken to make this fall productive and help reduce the stress around the college admissions process.

They will examine the holistic admissions review process, what admissions officers consider important when they review applicants, and how students can position themselves to develop a compelling narrative to increase their chances for admission.

They will also discuss the importance of community service, how it can provide an opportunity for personal growth and a way to showcase a student’s character. Admissions officers place great emphasis on a student’s character and how the student has been able to give back and help others.

Register here!

Presentation will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

Navigating College Admissions Successfully in 2024

 A program for parents and their high school teens

Ron Feuchs and Jackie Tepper, partners at Stand Out For College, LLC are offering and will lead this Zoom presentation to help families understand how the lingering effects from the pandemic have changed the college admissions landscape and how it affects Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen.

The recent college admissions cycle was the most competitive to date. With most colleges continuing their test-optional policies as well as increasing their virtual outreach to high school students, many schools had record numbers of applicants. Record high numbers of applications result in record low acceptance rates which is what most popular colleges and universities experienced this past admissions cycle.

Ron and Jackie will discuss current college admissions trends, the importance of researching and visiting colleges to find schools that can be a good fit for your child, a timeline and other action steps that can be taken to make this fall productive and help reduce the stress around the college admissions process.

They will examine the holistic admissions review process, what admissions officers consider important when they review applicants, and how students can position themselves to develop a compelling narrative to increase their chances for admission.

They will also discuss the importance of community service, how it can provide an opportunity for personal growth and a way to showcase a student’s character. Admissions officers place great emphasis on a student’s character and how the student has been able to give back and help others.

Register here!

Presentation will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

Women and Money Series: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets

When it comes to the financial and real estate markets, people aren’t always as rational as you would think. Behavioral finance experts have been studying the not-so-smart decisions people make. We will reveal the fears, misperceptions and emotional needs people have that sabotage their investment and home sale returns.

Join us for this monthly roundtable for women on money led by financial professionals Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series’ discussion will focus on how to make sense of today’s financial markets, is open to women with any level of financial knowledge, and is an ongoing informational gathering to learn and share.

We’ll show you how to avoid the mistakes and make decisions like the pros. We’ll cover the latest market news and how that might affect your decision making. We’ll also give you background and context for understanding why market movement occurs and we’ll share strategies for keeping ahead of what might come. Register here!

Our Roundtable Leaders:

Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.

Liz Maccarone, CRPC®
Senior Financial Advisor

Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation. Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading.

The roundtable meetings will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

This session of the series is hosted by Darien Library.

Women and Money Series: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets

When it comes to the financial and real estate markets, people aren’t always as rational as you would think. Behavioral finance experts have been studying the not-so-smart decisions people make. We will reveal the fears, misperceptions and emotional needs people have that sabotage their investment and home sale returns.

Join us for this monthly roundtable for women on money led by financial professionals Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series’ discussion will focus on how to make sense of today’s financial markets, is open to women with any level of financial knowledge, and is an ongoing informational gathering to learn and share.

We’ll show you how to avoid the mistakes and make decisions like the pros. We’ll cover the latest market news and how that might affect your decision making. We’ll also give you background and context for understanding why market movement occurs and we’ll share strategies for keeping ahead of what might come. Register here!

Our Roundtable Leaders:

Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.

Liz Maccarone, CRPC®
Senior Financial Advisor

Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation. Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading.

The roundtable meetings will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

This session of the series is hosted by Darien Library.

Women and Money Series: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets

When it comes to the financial and real estate markets, people aren’t always as rational as you would think. Behavioral finance experts have been studying the not-so-smart decisions people make. We will reveal the fears, misperceptions and emotional needs people have that sabotage their investment and home sale returns.

Join us for this monthly roundtable for women on money led by financial professionals Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series’ discussion will focus on how to make sense of today’s financial markets, is open to women with any level of financial knowledge, and is an ongoing informational gathering to learn and share.

We’ll show you how to avoid the mistakes and make decisions like the pros. We’ll cover the latest market news and how that might affect your decision making. We’ll also give you background and context for understanding why market movement occurs and we’ll share strategies for keeping ahead of what might come. Register here!

Our Roundtable Leaders:

Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.

Liz Maccarone, CRPC®
Senior Financial Advisor

Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation. Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading.

The roundtable meetings will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

This session of the series is hosted by Darien Library.

Women and Money Series: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets

When it comes to the financial and real estate markets, people aren’t always as rational as you would think. Behavioral finance experts have been studying the not-so-smart decisions people make. We will reveal the fears, misperceptions and emotional needs people have that sabotage their investment and home sale returns.

Join us for this monthly roundtable for women on money led by financial professionals Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series’ discussion will focus on how to make sense of today’s financial markets, is open to women with any level of financial knowledge, and is an ongoing informational gathering to learn and share.

We’ll show you how to avoid the mistakes and make decisions like the pros. We’ll cover the latest market news and how that might affect your decision making. We’ll also give you background and context for understanding why market movement occurs and we’ll share strategies for keeping ahead of what might come.

And! In spirit of Women’s History Month, we are incorporating information about women’s money and property ownership history into this session. Register here!

Our Roundtable Leaders:

Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.

Liz Maccarone, CRPC®
Senior Financial Advisor

Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation. Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading.

The roundtable meetings will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

This session of the series is hosted by Darien Library.

Women and Money Series: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets

When it comes to the financial and real estate markets, people aren’t always as rational as you would think. Behavioral finance experts have been studying the not-so-smart decisions people make. We will reveal the fears, misperceptions and emotional needs people have that sabotage their investment and home sale returns.

Join us for this monthly roundtable for women on money led by financial professionals Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series’ discussion will focus on how to make sense of today’s financial markets, is open to women with any level of financial knowledge, and is an ongoing informational gathering to learn and share.

We’ll show you how to avoid the mistakes and make decisions like the pros. We’ll cover the latest market news and how that might affect your decision making. We’ll also give you background and context for understanding why market movement occurs and we’ll share strategies for keeping ahead of what might come. Register here!

Our Roundtable Leaders:

Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.

Liz Maccarone, CRPC®
Senior Financial Advisor

Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation. Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading.

The roundtable meetings will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

This session of the series is hosted by Darien Library.

Motherhood, Hunger, and Higher Education: An Author Talk with Stephanie Land

You’re invited to an afternoon chat with New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Land as she talks to us about her new memoir, Class: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger, and Higher Education.

When Stephanie Land set out to write her first book, a memoir titled Maid, she never could have imagined what was to come. Handpicked by President Barack Obama as one of the best books of 2019, it was later adapted into the hit Netflix series Maid, which was viewed by 67 million households and was Netflix’s fourth most-watched show in 2021, garnering three Primetime Emmy Award nominations. Stephanie’s escape from poverty and abuse in search of a better life inspired millions. Maid was a story about a housecleaner, but it was also a story about a woman with a dream.

In Class, Land takes us with her as she finishes college and pursues her writing career. Facing barriers at every turn, including a byzantine loan system, not having enough money for food, and navigating the judgments of professors and fellow students who didn’t understand the demands of attending college while under the poverty line—Land finds a way to survive once again, finally graduating in her mid-thirties.

Class paints an intimate and heartbreaking portrait of motherhood as it converges and often conflicts with personal desire and professional ambition. In clear, candid, and moving prose, Class offers a searing indictment of America’s educational system and an inspiring testimony of a mother’s triumph against all odds.

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Stephanie Land is the author of the New York Times bestseller Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive, called “a testimony…worth listening to,” by The New York Times and inspiration for the Netflix series Maid. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The GuardianThe Atlantic, and many other outlets. Her writing focuses on social and economic justice and parenting under the poverty line. She is a frequent speaker at colleges and national advocacy organizations. Find out more at @Stepville or Stepville.com.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Let’s Talk World Building with YA Fantasy Fiction Superstar Author Victoria Aveyard

Join us as the instant #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Red Queen and Realm Breaker series, Victoria Aveyard, chats with us about YA fantasy fiction, world-building, and her incredible body of work!

In the bestselling series Realm Breaker, a strange darkness grows in Allward even Corayne an-Amarat can feel it in her small town at the edge of the sea. The long lost heir to an ancient lineage, it’s not until Corayne meets a rag-tag group of companions that she learns how to wield the magic slumbering in her blood—and how together they might stop what’s coming.

As the realm descends into chaos, the choices are clear: Save the world…or end it. Together, they stand against a vicious opponent, invincible and determined to burn all kingdoms to ash and an army unlike anything the realm has ever witnessed.

Irresistibly action-packed and full of lethal surprises, this stunning fantasy series promises Breakneck adventure and impossible thrills! Register now to join the adventure!

Register here! Aren’t able to attend? Visit us here to view recordings of past events and the list others that are coming up!

About the Author: Victoria Aveyard was born and raised in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, a small town known only for the worst traffic rotary in the continental United States. She moved to Los Angeles to earn a BFA in screenwriting at the University of Southern California. She currently splits her time between the East and West coasts. As an author and screenwriter, she uses her career as an excuse to read too many books and watch too many movies. She is the author of the New York Times bestselling Red Queen series, and you can visit her online at www.victoriaaveyard.com.

Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. 

Cookbook Book Club

Enjoy trying out new dishes?
Interested in sharing tips on how to tweak a recipe?
Want to swap cooking or baking suggestions over a delicious meal?

then this Book Club is for you!

Each season, we will hold a session where participants select recipes from a few chosen cookbooks in the library’s collection.

Then, make the dishes to bring to the library for a potluck dinner full of wonderful culinary delights, both savory and sweet.

This session, we welcome all participants to join us for another evening of having some fun with Ruth and Kerry and maybe learning a trick or two in the kitchen! It may be February, but we can all brighten up our go to winter dishes and bakes with new, sparky flavors. We’ll also find out what signature cocktail recipe Kerry has for us this winter!

The cookbooks selected for this session include:

  • AtoZ World Food recipes (www.rowayton.org/collection-resources/atoz-world-food)
  • The Flavor Equation: The Science of Great Cooking Explained + More Than 100 Essential Recipes by Nik Sharma is not new but a revisit showed why it quickly became a classic. Flavor optimization is the core of a great dish and Sharma’s imaginative, accessible recipes will show you how to deliver on that promise.
  • Food52 recipes (www.food52.com/recipes)
  • Milk Street: Tuesday Nights Mediterranean by Christopher Kimball broadens the definition of Mediterranean cuisine to include all the countries “from Gibraltar to Lebanon”. There are no time consuming and complicated techniques – what is in abundance is fresh ideas and tastes.
  • The New Essentials Cookbook: A Modern Guide to Better Cooking by America’s Test Kitchen takes a fresh look at some classics, loads up on super helpful hints via the Think Like a Cook sidebars, and last but certainly not least will teach you how to be an Avocado Whisperer.
  • Snacking Bakes by Yossy Arefi is accurately subtitled “simple recipes for cookies, bars, brownies and more”. This book is fun to explore, packed with (one bowl!) sweet and savory bakes.
  • Zingerman’s Bakehouse Celebrate Every Day is a treasure house of recipes for all occasions. The soups are scrumptious, the Chicago deep dish pizza had our name on it, and every beautifully photographed dish presents a temptation. Excellent instructions put executing the recipes within reach.

What you need to do:

  • Register here.
  • Come to the library and select a recipe and let us know which one you will bring to the potluck. Participants may make free copies of their chosen recipe at the library.
  • Bring your dish and a copy of your recipe (annotated, if applicable) on the evening of the event. We can reheat in a microwave, but please have food table-ready and bring the appropriate serving utensil.

We will supply liquid refreshments and paper supplies.

Questions? Contact the library at library@rowayton.org.

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Classics Book Club

What makes a book a “classic”? The writer Italo Calvino defined them this way: “A classic is a book which has never exhausted all it has to say to its readers.” In that spirit, the Classics Book Club reads and discusses novels that have become beloved over the years, whether they’re well-known staples or under-the-radar gems. We’ll read one classic or modern classic book  and engage in a lively discussion about the text in person at the Library!

For this meeting, we’ll be reading My Antonia by Willa Cather. A classic tale of the American West at the turn of the last century, the novel tells the story of an immigrant family as they struggle to survive and thrive on the lonely but beautiful plains of Nebraska. When the orphaned Jim Burden is sent to live with his grandparents in Black Hawk, he’s introduced to both the wild landscape and the immigrant Shimerda family, whose daughter, Antonia, captures his imagination as the two come of age together. Cather’s exquisite prose brings to life both the landscape and the people in this short but magnificent novel.

Register here! Refreshments will be served.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.

Women and Money Series: How to Make Sense of Today’s Financial Markets

When it comes to the financial and real estate markets, people aren’t always as rational as you would think. Behavioral finance experts have been studying the not-so-smart decisions people make. We will reveal the fears, misperceptions and emotional needs people have that sabotage their investment and home sale returns.

Join us for this monthly roundtable for women on money led by financial professionals Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. This series’ discussion will focus on how to make sense of today’s financial markets, is open to women with any level of financial knowledge, and is an ongoing informational gathering to learn and share.

We’ll show you how to avoid the mistakes and make decisions like the pros. We’ll cover the latest market news and how that might affect your decision making. We’ll also give you background and context for understanding why market movement occurs and we’ll share strategies for keeping ahead of what might come. Register here!

Our Roundtable Leaders:

Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.

Liz Maccarone, CRPC®
Senior Financial Advisor

Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation. Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading.

The roundtable meetings will be conducted via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device.

This session of the series is hosted by Darien Library.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each remaining individual February session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have four cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each individual May session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2023 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for the April 29 session here.

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2023 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each remaining individual April session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Mah Jongg and Canasta Free Play Mashup

Mad for Mah Jongg or crazy for Canasta? Here’s your chance to meet other players, benefit from consistent play, and build your confidence. If playing Mah Jongg, we have eight cards for people to use, but if you are considering becoming a frequent player, please bring your own 2024 NMJL card (Available for purchase at nationalmahjonggleague.org). The Canasta card sets are on us and available for use. Register online for a spot in each individual session as we can only accommodate 16 people per afternoon.

Register for each individual February session below:

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Great Decisions Discussion Group

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs and created by the Foreign Policy Association. This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year. The remaining topics and corresponding discussion meeting dates are:

  • Wednesday, February 28 – NATO’s Future
  • Wednesday, March 20 – Understanding Indonesia
  • Wednesday, March 27 – High Seas Treaty
  • Wednesday, April 10 – Pandemic Preparedness

Rowayton resident Jim Frayer will facilitate discussions. Register here and pick up your briefing book at the library!

A video showing of the topic up for discussion will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every week. Actual discussion of the topic will begin at 7:00 p.m. Participants are invited to tune in to both!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

Great Decisions Discussion Group

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs and created by the Foreign Policy Association. This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year. The remaining topics and corresponding discussion meeting dates are:

  • Wednesday, February 21 – China Trade Rivalry
  • Wednesday, February 28 – NATO’s Future
  • Wednesday, March 20 – Understanding Indonesia
  • Wednesday, March 27 – High Seas Treaty
  • Wednesday, April 10 – Pandemic Preparedness

Rowayton resident Jim Frayer will facilitate discussions. Register here and pick up your briefing book at the library!

A video showing of the topic up for discussion will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every week. Actual discussion of the topic will begin at 7:00 p.m. Participants are invited to tune in to both!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

Great Decisions Discussion Group

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs and created by the Foreign Policy Association. This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year. The remaining topics and corresponding discussion meeting dates are:

  • Wednesday, February 14 – Science Across Borders
  • Wednesday, February 21 – China Trade Rivalry
  • Wednesday, February 28 – NATO’s Future
  • Wednesday, March 20 – Understanding Indonesia
  • Wednesday, March 27 – High Seas Treaty
  • Wednesday, April 10 – Pandemic Preparedness

Rowayton resident Jim Frayer will facilitate discussions. Register here and pick up your briefing book at the library!

A video showing of the topic up for discussion will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every week. Actual discussion of the topic will begin at 7:00 p.m. Participants are invited to tune in to both!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

Great Decisions Discussion Group

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs and created by the Foreign Policy Association. This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year. The remaining topics and corresponding discussion meeting dates are:

  • Wednesday, January 24 – Climate Technology and Competition
  • Wednesday, January 31 – Science Across Borders
  • Tuesday, February 20 – China Trade Rivalry
  • Wednesday, March 20 – NATO’s Future
  • Tuesday, March 26 – Understanding Indonesia
  • Wednesday, April 17 – High Seas Treaty
  • Tuesday, April 23 – Pandemic Preparedness

Rowayton resident Jim Frayer will facilitate discussions. Register here and pick up your briefing book at the library!

A video showing of the topic up for discussion will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every week. Actual discussion of the topic will begin at 7:00 p.m. Participants are invited to tune in to both!

New Photo Release Policy effective February 1, 2019. See here for details.

Online programs hosted by the library will be provided via Zoom. Visit their website here to find the appropriate download instructions and download link for your device. Registration for all programs is required. Participants who register for any program will receive an email with the link to join.

Tech Help

Have an issue with one of your devices? Technology proving to be more of a challenge than you thought? We can help! Register for a 30-minute help session just for you.

To register for the 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. session, click here.
To register for the 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. session, click here.

View our Photo Release Policy, effective since February 1, 2019, here.