MTL Youth Chess Club (Recommended for Grades 4-8) IN PERSON Program

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide che......More

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.While this program is recommended for grade 5-8, older teen players are welcome too!About our facilitator: Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!The club will meet every Monday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. except on holidays or as otherwise noted.Program contact: Sarah Zimmermann ([email protected]), Teen and Reference Librarian

MTL Youth Chess Club (Recommended for Grades 4-8) IN PERSON Program

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide che......More

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.While this program is recommended for grade 5-8, older teen players are welcome too!About our facilitator: Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!The club will meet every Monday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. except on holidays or as otherwise noted.Program contact: Sarah Zimmermann ([email protected]), Teen and Reference Librarian

Adult Chess Club (In-person)

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide ......More

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.As space is limited, we recommend participants register for each program that they plan to attend.About our facilitator:Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!  

Pods 'n Ends: A Podcast Club

Registration Required BelowPodcast enthusiasts, rejoice! Your favorite pastime is no longer limited to listening in your car or while taking your dog for a walk!Pods 'n Ends is a new MTL group facilitated by Amy Maloof, Redding Sentinel's podcast columnist, and Carolyn ......More

Registration Required BelowPodcast enthusiasts, rejoice! Your favorite pastime is no longer limited to listening in your car or while taking your dog for a walk!Pods 'n Ends is a new MTL group facilitated by Amy Maloof, Redding Sentinel's podcast columnist, and Carolyn Prusa, a local author.Each month, Amy and Carolyn will select an engaging episode and we'll meet to discuss it in person (over snacks!)“It’s like a book club, but for podcasts!" Amy explained.Eclectic topics will run the gamut — from true crime to history to pop culture and heartwarming humor.Meetings will be held on Monday evenings.This Month's Podcast: Inconceivable Truth, Episode: "Warren | Chapter One"Investigative reporter Matt Katz always had a strained and sporadic relationship with his biological father. When he starts to dig deeper into their relationship, Katz begins to uncover things he never could have imagined. The first installment in a compelling eight-episode series.Listen to the episode HERE or wherever you download your favorite podcasts.Upcoming Sessions & Selections:Monday, June 25: Hidden Brain, Episode: "Bullsh*t Jobs"Listen to the episode HERE or wherever you download your favorite podcasts.

Great Decisions (In-Person)

Registration for this program is closed.  Look for our next session in the Fall of 2024Join our popular Great Decisions series, an international relations discussion group that meets in person at the Library. This 8-session course, designed by the Foreign Policy Associa......More

Registration for this program is closed.  Look for our next session in the Fall of 2024Join our popular Great Decisions series, an international relations discussion group that meets in person at the Library. This 8-session course, designed by the Foreign Policy Association, focuses on the most pressing issues of our time. The discussions will be moderated by members of the Library’s World Affairs Forum.  Read the Foreign Policy Association briefing book before each session and engage in lively discussions.The World Affairs Forum meets on the first and third Monday of the month at the Library.   Participants are encouraged to attend in person to fully participate in the discussion; however, an option for individuals to join virtually via Zoom is available. All registered participants will receive a Zoom link on the day of the meeting.Dates and TopicsFebruary 5 - Mideast RealignmentFebruary 19 - Climate Technology and CompetitionMarch 6 - Science Across BordersMarch 18 - U.S. - China trade rivalryApril 1 - NATO’s futureApril 15 - Understanding IndonesiaMay 6 - High Seas TreatyMay 20 - Pandemic PreparednessRegistering on this page will register you for the full 8-week course.  Registered participants will receive notification when the briefing books arrive in late January.  There is a suggested donation of $20 to help defray the cost of the briefing book and materials for this program. Donations welcome when you pick up your book or click here to donate. More About Great Decisions:Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs. The name is shared by a national civic-education program, briefing book, and PBS television series produced by the Foreign Policy Association. The Great Decisions program highlights eight critical foreign policy challenges facing Americans each year. In libraries across the country, Great Decisions discussion group participants discuss and debate each issue. Supported by the Foreign Policy Association for over 50 years, Great Decisions involves citizens in the foreign policy-making process.

Creative Collective Discussion Group: "The Creative Act" (Virtual)

Registration for this session is closed.  Please join us for our next session, registration will be available soon. Have fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conver......More

Registration for this session is closed.  Please join us for our next session, registration will be available soon. Have fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the creative process in a congenial, relaxed Zoom setting. Empower your creativity and feed your brain by joining us in the Creative Collective Discussion Group!This spring , our exploration into the power of creativity continues with the book The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin.  Copies of the books are available for loan at the Library's front desk.The Creative Collective meets weekly on Tuesdays.  Register once for all meetings in this session running from April through June.Click Here to attend Zoom Meeting  (For registered participants only)

TOPSTONE Family Story Time Co-Sponsored by the Redding Department of Parks & Rec (ages birth-5)

MTL Story Times @ Topstone Pond: Co-sponsored by the Redding Department of Parks & RecreationLet's enjoy the outdoors together! We'll gather at Topstone beach for an outdoor Family Story Time with books, songs, and flannel board stories. Please bring your own beach chai......More

MTL Story Times @ Topstone Pond: Co-sponsored by the Redding Department of Parks & RecreationLet's enjoy the outdoors together! We'll gather at Topstone beach for an outdoor Family Story Time with books, songs, and flannel board stories. Please bring your own beach chairs/ beach blankets.REGISTRATION REQUIRED; include your phone number for a text update in case of inclement weather.Photos and or videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each......More

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem. 

Z.E.B.R.A. (Zealous Excellent Book Readers Association) for 7th and 8th Graders

Avid readers in 7th and 8th grades are invited to attend our monthly book discussion group for older readers. There will be books for browsing and cookies and chips for snacking while we discuss books you’ve read lately.REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.

Yale Science in the News: EnLIGHTenment — From Computers to the Cosmos (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowScience in the News is a student-driven initiative where Yale graduate students and postdoctoral researchers present complex and exciting science topics to the general public.In this session, speakers will focus on the topic: EnLIGHTenment: Tr......More

Registration Required BelowScience in the News is a student-driven initiative where Yale graduate students and postdoctoral researchers present complex and exciting science topics to the general public.In this session, speakers will focus on the topic: EnLIGHTenment: Tracing Light from Computers to the CosmosDiscover the mesmerizing dance of light and matter —  From sunglasses to mirrors, we leverage the properties of light to our everyday needs. Studied by great minds like Newton and Einstein, the properties of light now guide us toward promising advancements in science and technology in the future.Register below and receive a Zoom link on the day of the program. Include a cell for a text reminder.

College Application Timeline Workshop (Recommended for Rising Seniors and their Families) Zoom program

Please register below to receive a Zoom link the day of the program. Calling all rising seniors! You have a lot coming up in the next year as you navigate your college essays and applications, in addition to your regularly scheduled schoolwork & extracurriculars. Join P......More

Please register below to receive a Zoom link the day of the program. Calling all rising seniors! You have a lot coming up in the next year as you navigate your college essays and applications, in addition to your regularly scheduled schoolwork & extracurriculars. Join Priyanka Shingala of Let's Talk College, LLC to learn how you can organize your workload to dramatically decrease your stress levels. In this session, we'll cover the following topics: Essays, Supplementals, Interviews: What To Do & When Maximizing Your Summer: What to Complete Before Senior Year Asking for Recommendations: Who to Ask & When The College Application Website & Admissions Cycles (EA, ED, Regular, Rolling Admissions, etc) Managing Your StressThis program is geared toward rising seniors and their families.Priyanka has been working in the test prep and college counseling industry for 11 years and started her own business Let’s Talk College, LLC in 2018.  Her goal is to ensure that families have the information they need to organize their own college applications process. 

Family Story Time (birth-5)

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay......More

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay to miss sessions. Questions, please email Lisa at [email protected] & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Navigating the Challenge of Dementia — Luncheon, Lecture & New Resources (In-person)

Registration Required BelowLUNCHEON, LECTURE & PRESENTATION OF NEW RESOURCES AT MTLCaring for someone suffering from memory loss? Interested in learning more about the condition? Join us for a light luncheon and lecture focusing on the risk factors, symptoms and disease......More

Registration Required BelowLUNCHEON, LECTURE & PRESENTATION OF NEW RESOURCES AT MTLCaring for someone suffering from memory loss? Interested in learning more about the condition? Join us for a light luncheon and lecture focusing on the risk factors, symptoms and disease stages of dementia.   In addition, learn about current research and strategies to better cope with challenges, including the Library's new Memory Kits.During the luncheon, MTL's Librarian Kathryn Zimmerman will unveil MTL's New Memory Care Kits.  These kits are designed to help caregivers create connections with a loved one who has dementia.  The kits have been made possible due to a grant awarded to the Mark Twain Library from the American Library Association/Libraries Transforming Communities.Following the luncheon, an expert from the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association will deliver a comprehensive talk on the impact of Alzheimer's.  Participants will learn about the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia, Alzheimer's disease stages and risk factors, current research and treatments and available Alzheimer's Association resources.This program is made possible, in part, by a grant from Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities, an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) in collaboration with the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL)Co-sponsored with The Heritage CenterSpace is limited. Register below to reserve a seat for both the luncheon and lecture. 

The Klansman's Son — Conversations: Truth, Myth & Democracy (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowThe Klansman's Son: My Journey From White Nationalism to Anti-RacismBy R. Derek Black   Join us as Dr. Daniel Barrett moderates this important Conversations discussion with R. Derek Black, an activist and author who shares important insight an......More

Registration Required BelowThe Klansman's Son: My Journey From White Nationalism to Anti-RacismBy R. Derek Black   Join us as Dr. Daniel Barrett moderates this important Conversations discussion with R. Derek Black, an activist and author who shares important insight and lessons for these contentious times. As coded language and creeping authoritarianism spread the ideas of white nationalists, this is an essential book with a powerful voice.In a provocative new memoir, R. Derek Black (they/them) shares the story of being raised to take over the white nationalist movement in the United States and their journey toward renouncing their family's beliefs, apologizing for their past actions and their work today as an anti-racist.Derek's father, Don Black, was a former Grand Wizard in the Ku Klux Klan and started Stormfront, the internet’s first white supremacist website. Young Derek built the kids’ page and their mentor and godfather was David Duke.While in college in 2013, Derek publicly renounced white nationalism and apologized for their actions and suffering they had caused. The majority of their family stopped speaking to them, and they disappeared into academia, convinced that they had done so much harm that there was no place for them in public life. But in 2016, as Derek recognized the mainstreaming of the hate they had once helped cultivate, they knew they couldn’t stay silent.This virtual webinar will be hosted via Zoom.  Registered participants will receive an invitation with link prior to the program. Please include a cell phone number to receive text reminder.Panelists:R. Derek Black (they/them) is a doctoral candidate in history at the University of Chicago. Since 2016, they have spoken to many audiences at universities, foundations, institutions, museums, synagogues, and churches. They received the Elie Wiesel Award and a humanitarian award from the Anti-Defamation League. The Klansman's Son is their first book. Dr. Daniel W. Barrett is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Western Connecticut State University. A former resident of Redding, he graduated with a BA from Wesleyan University, earned his Ph.D. in Social Psychology from Arizona State University and served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Health Communication at the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania. Conversations: Truth, Myth & Democracy is a series of programs co-sponsored by Redding's League of Women Voters and The Mark Twain Library. Winner of the 2022 Connecticut Library Association’s Award for Excellence in Public Library Service, the series continues the community conversation on issues of race, justice and democracy. Many thanks to area Libraries and Leagues for their support of this series:Easton Public Library Weston Public Library Friends of the Weston Public Library Newtown’s C.H. Booth Library Ridgefield Library The League of Women Voters of Weston The League of Women Voters of Ridgefield The League of Women Voters of Northern Fairfield County 

Upcycle Crafting: MTL's Modern Makers (In-person)

Registration Required BelowTake time for yourself this spring and join our favorite crafter, Deb Owen for this delightfully fun craft.  Deb will show us how to upcycle ordinary clay pigeons used in skeet shooting into winsome and useful bowls.  These beautiful bowls mak......More

Registration Required BelowTake time for yourself this spring and join our favorite crafter, Deb Owen for this delightfully fun craft.  Deb will show us how to upcycle ordinary clay pigeons used in skeet shooting into winsome and useful bowls.  These beautiful bowls make lovely trinket dishes and decor for your home or to give as a special gift.No experience is required. All materials supplied.Space is limited so please register early.[gallery ids="26302,26303,26300"]

Fine Wine or Sour Grapes? Let's Talk About Aging (In-person)

Registration Required BelowCo-sponsored by Redding's Commission on Aging"Aging is an extraordinary process whereby you become the person you always should have been," David BowieAging happens... so let’s talk about it! Join a new, informal discussion group as we talk, l......More

Registration Required BelowCo-sponsored by Redding's Commission on Aging"Aging is an extraordinary process whereby you become the person you always should have been," David BowieAging happens... so let’s talk about it! Join a new, informal discussion group as we talk, listen, learn — and figure out how to turn sour grapes into fine wine.The conversation will be facilitated by Redding residents Jean Rexford and Kathleen Brandt. The group will meet at the Library the second and fourth Thursday of the month.Potential topics will include maintaining relevancy, resiliency, dealing with ageism, acceptance and compassion.Spring Meeting Dates:March 28, April 11, April 25, May 9, May 23, June 13 and June 27.Our FacilitatorsJean Rexford — Jean started the Connecticut Center for Patient Safety in 2005 to promote patient safety, improve the quality of health care and protect patient rights.  Jean is a former member of the Connecticut Medical Examining Board and Redding's Commission on Aging.Kathleen Brandt — Kathleen is vice chairman of the Redding's Commission on Aging. After nearly two decades working as a registered nurse, she became an attorney in 1996, specializing in patient advocacy litigation.

Build Your Own U.S. History Book! (Grades 5-8) OFFSITE PROGRAM AT JOHN READ MIDDLE SCHOOL

Please register below. This program will be held before school at John Read Middle School. Come enjoy snacks and test your knowledge of U.S. History at John Read Middle School (486 Redding Road) with an interactive and fun test-your-knowledge program using a beautiful B......More

Please register below. This program will be held before school at John Read Middle School. Come enjoy snacks and test your knowledge of U.S. History at John Read Middle School (486 Redding Road) with an interactive and fun test-your-knowledge program using a beautiful Build-Your-Own-History sticker book to take home with you. This collaborative activity will really get your mind moving! You do not need to be a student at John Read Middle School to participate in this program.Program contact: Sarah Zimmermann ([email protected]), Teen and Reference LibrarianCo-sponsored by John Read Middle School/JRMS PTA  

Classics Book Club: 'Winesburg, Ohio' (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowThis group is led by MTL's bibliophile extraordinaire,  Catherine Riordan. Catherine taught literature at the college level for many years, and shares her contagious enthusiasm for the classics. The group reads and discusses titles of all time......More

Registration Required BelowThis group is led by MTL's bibliophile extraordinaire,  Catherine Riordan. Catherine taught literature at the college level for many years, and shares her contagious enthusiasm for the classics. The group reads and discusses titles of all time periods, including modern works.Copies of the latest book will be available at the Library's front desk.The Classics Book Club meets in person at the Library.This Month:May 24 — Sherwood Anderson, Winesburg, Ohio 1919UPCOMING DATES & SELECTIONS:June 28 — Toni Morrison, The Bluest Eye 1970Click Here to View Recent Classic Book Selections 

MTL Youth Chess Club (Recommended for Grades 4-8) IN PERSON Program

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide che......More

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.While this program is recommended for grade 5-8, older teen players are welcome too!About our facilitator: Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!The club will meet every Monday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. except on holidays or as otherwise noted.Program contact: Sarah Zimmermann ([email protected]), Teen and Reference Librarian

MTL Youth Chess Club (Recommended for Grades 4-8) IN PERSON Program

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide che......More

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome. We invite young chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched Youth Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.While this program is recommended for grade 5-8, older teen players are welcome too!About our facilitator: Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!The club will meet every Monday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. except on holidays or as otherwise noted.Program contact: Sarah Zimmermann ([email protected]), Teen and Reference Librarian

TOPSTONE Family Story Time Co-Sponsored by the Redding Department of Parks & Rec (ages birth-5)

MTL Story Times @ Topstone Pond: Co-sponsored by the Redding Department of Parks & RecreationLet's enjoy the outdoors together! We'll gather at Topstone beach for an outdoor Family Story Time with books, songs, and flannel board stories. Please bring your own beach chai......More

MTL Story Times @ Topstone Pond: Co-sponsored by the Redding Department of Parks & RecreationLet's enjoy the outdoors together! We'll gather at Topstone beach for an outdoor Family Story Time with books, songs, and flannel board stories. Please bring your own beach chairs/ beach blankets.REGISTRATION REQUIRED; include your phone number for a text update in case of inclement weather.Photos and or videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Creative Collective Discussion Group: "The Creative Act" (Virtual)

Registration for this session is closed.  Please join us for our next session, registration will be available soon. Have fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conver......More

Registration for this session is closed.  Please join us for our next session, registration will be available soon. Have fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the creative process in a congenial, relaxed Zoom setting. Empower your creativity and feed your brain by joining us in the Creative Collective Discussion Group!This spring , our exploration into the power of creativity continues with the book The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin.  Copies of the books are available for loan at the Library's front desk.The Creative Collective meets weekly on Tuesdays.  Register once for all meetings in this session running from April through June.Click Here to attend Zoom Meeting  (For registered participants only)

Jazz Journeys with David Morgan (In-Person)

Registration Required Below Embark on a soulful journey of enchanting melodies and smooth rhythms with David Morgan, a Redding resident and accomplished jazz pianist.During one afternoon a month through May, the Library's Mark Twain Room will be transformed into a music......More

Registration Required Below Embark on a soulful journey of enchanting melodies and smooth rhythms with David Morgan, a Redding resident and accomplished jazz pianist.During one afternoon a month through May, the Library's Mark Twain Room will be transformed into a musical haven, as David treats neighbors to "Jazz Journeys" – an immersive experience designed to demonstrate how jazz conveys soul-stirring emotions.During this free and live performance, Morgan will guide his audience through a wide selection of classic and contemporary jazz, performing scores from  Thelonious Monk, Duke Ellington and Miles Davis. He'll also play compositions representing a wide variety of jazz styles.Audience interaction will be part of the program. Morgan hopes to help people gain an understanding of the music and how jazz communicates."I want to pull back the veil of mystery surrounding jazz," said Morgan, who is also a singer, songwriter, producer and educator.Jazz Journeys Concert DatesTuesdays at 11 am in the Library's upstairs Mark Twain RoomJanuary 30February 27March 26April 16May 28About Our PerformerDavid Morgan has been a professional musician, producer, musical director and educator for 30 years.  He is a world-class piano player, and has performed and toured worldwide with well-known national and international artists such as actress/singer Jane Lynch,  Neshama Carlebach, and his own Jazz Trio.  David has also performed and recorded with Wynton Marsalis, Wes Anderson and Grammy/Emmy-nominated singer/songwriter, Peter Himmelman.​David writes music for CBS Sports, Discovery, A&E, MTV,  and TV shows including 'Pawn Stars', 'Little Women' and 'Catfish'.  He also produces recordings for other artists in his own studio.A graduate from The University of New Orleans with a BA in Jazz Studies under the direction of Ellis Marsalis, David now focuses his attention to The Music Shed in Redding, where he shares his love of music with musicians of all ages.

Midday Recharge: A Meditation Series (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowA changing season is a time for renewal and considering different points of view.Join popular meditation instructor Alexa Owen virtually for this 8-week series to cultivate ease and growth. Each 30-minute session will include a short introduct......More

Registration Required BelowA changing season is a time for renewal and considering different points of view.Join popular meditation instructor Alexa Owen virtually for this 8-week series to cultivate ease and growth. Each 30-minute session will include a short introduction to a contemplative topic, a 15-minute guided practice, and time to share reflections and ask questions at the end.Incorporating a meditation practice into your routine has countless benefits, including decreased stress, lowered blood pressure, increased gratitude and focus, and overall improvement in mood and mindset. You’ll learn foundational practices that facilitate ease and wellbeing not only for yourself  but for the loved ones with whom you share your space and energy as well. Sessions are designed to leave you feeling refreshed and ready to engage fully in the rest of your day and week.Recommended for adults and high school students.Register once to receive reminders for the full 8-week series, or drop-in using the direct link below.  Registered participants will receive an reminder and link the day of the program.  Include your cell number on the registration form to receive one text reminder.CLICK HERE FOR ZOOM MEETINGPassword: rechargeDates:Tuesdays at noonFebruary 13February 29March 12March 26April 9April 23May 14May 28About our presenter:Alexa Owen is a meditation faculty member at Nalanda Institute for Contemplative Science, as well as a graduate of the Contemplative Psychotherapy Program and teacher training in Compassion-Based Resilience Training (CBRT). She has delivered workshops on wellness and contemplative science at libraries, high schools, and universities; created mindfulness training content for values-driven organizations; and guided meditation through her work with the Anti-Racism Planning Group at Smith College School for Social Work, where she is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree. A certified yoga therapist and inspired student of social science, she is passionate about supporting people in fully embodying their lives through self-awareness, compassion, and flourishing in their intra- and interpersonal relationships. Alexa grew up in Redding and maintains connections to this special place through family, friends, and continued community offerings. You can learn more at her website: www.alexaowen.com

Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each......More

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem. 

Family Story Time (birth-5)

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay......More

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay to miss sessions. Questions, please email Lisa at [email protected] & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Sit to Be Fit: A Chair Yoga Series with Viki (Virtual)

Please note the new start time of 12:30 pm. Registration Required BelowWant to free yourself from tension and stress? Lose weight? Build strength and flexibility? Then it’s time to get moving! Move in and around the chair in this yoga fusion class. The best of both worl......More

Please note the new start time of 12:30 pm. Registration Required BelowWant to free yourself from tension and stress? Lose weight? Build strength and flexibility? Then it’s time to get moving! Move in and around the chair in this yoga fusion class. The best of both worlds, Viki combines breathing and mindfulness with functional fitness moves that will energize you for the day.Take a midday break and join us for this 8 week series designed for all levels, including beginners.  You might think of Chair Yoga as slow and tedious, but this class is fun, challenging, lively, stimulating and empowering!  If you have a strap, belt or towel have it handy.8 Thursday Sessions:February 1February 15March 7March 28April 4April 18May 16May 30Register once and receive reminders before each of the 8 sessions, or drop-in using the direct zoom link below.  Registered participants will receive an reminder and link the day of the program.  Include your cell phone number on the registration form and you will also receive one text reminder, with link, 15-30 minutes before the program begins.CLICK HERE FOR ZOOM LINKPassword: YogaAbout our instructor:Viki Boyko teaches yoga and functional movement online and in theTristate area. Classes welcome all levels, including beginner. She is 500hr yoga certified, a Franklin Method educator, Hanna Somatics educator, Movement for seniors specialist and Pelvic Floor Health Coach.  To learn more about Viki visit her website www.vikiboyko.com. 

History Close to Home — Mark Twain's Connecticut Connections (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowJoin Brent Colley, Redding’s co-historian, as he leads a virtual tour through the Nutmeg State pointing out the people and places that were important to Mark Twain.While Twain called both Hartford and Redding home at different points of his li......More

Registration Required BelowJoin Brent Colley, Redding’s co-historian, as he leads a virtual tour through the Nutmeg State pointing out the people and places that were important to Mark Twain.While Twain called both Hartford and Redding home at different points of his life, he also left an indelible impression on many people and places nearby.Take a fictional trip with Twain to meet his Connecticut friends and contacts, many of whom were giants of the Progressive Era. With Brent as our guide, we’ll meet Helen Keller, P.T. Barnum and Architect Cass Gilbert. See the places that were important to Twain during his time in Connecticut.We’ll also hear about Colley’s proposal to develop a tour focusing on Twain and the people, places and events in Connecticut that influenced and shaped him.This is a hybrid program that will be held both in person at the Library, and also presented virtually over Zoom. If you'd like to register for the in-person program, please sign up below. To register for the virtual program, please click here.About Our Speaker Brent Colley grew up in Redding and comes from a family that called this town home for five generations. He credits his grandfather, Harry Colley, for instilling a curiosity and a love for the town's past. Colley leads walking tours, slide shows and speaking engagements that showcase the people, places, and events that have enriched the histories and shaped the landscapes of Branchville, Georgetown, and Redding.Brent also created and maintains the town's comprehensive online resource: historyofredding.net.History Close to Home is an occasional series delving into the unique and fascinating history of both Redding and the Nutmeg State. Whether you’re a newcomer to Redding, or an old-timer, this series offers opportunities to learn more about our collective stories and shared past.

History Close to Home — Mark Twain's Connecticut Connections (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowJoin Brent Colley, Redding’s co-historian, as he leads a virtual tour through the Nutmeg State pointing out the people and places that were important to Mark Twain.While Twain called both Hartford and Redding home at different points of his li......More

Registration Required BelowJoin Brent Colley, Redding’s co-historian, as he leads a virtual tour through the Nutmeg State pointing out the people and places that were important to Mark Twain.While Twain called both Hartford and Redding home at different points of his life, he also left an indelible impression on many people and places nearby.Take a fictional trip with Twain to meet his Connecticut friends and contacts, many of whom were giants of the Progressive Era. With Brent as our guide, we’ll meet Helen Keller, P.T. Barnum and Architect Cass Gilbert. See the places that were important to Twain during his time in Connecticut.We’ll also hear about Colley’s proposal to develop a tour focusing on Twain and the people, places and events in Connecticut that influenced and shaped him.This is a hybrid program that will be held both in person at the Library, and also presented virtually over Zoom. If you'd like to register for the virtual program, please sign up below and you will receive a Zoom link the day of the program. To register for the in-person program, please click here.About Our Speaker Brent Colley grew up in Redding and comes from a family that called this town home for five generations. He credits his grandfather, Harry Colley, for instilling a curiosity and a love for the town's past. Colley leads walking tours, slide shows and speaking engagements that showcase the people, places, and events that have enriched the histories and shaped the landscapes of Branchville, Georgetown, and Redding.Brent also created and maintains the town's comprehensive online resource: historyofredding.net.History Close to Home is an occasional series delving into the unique and fascinating history of both Redding and the Nutmeg State. Whether you’re a newcomer to Redding, or an old-timer, this series offers opportunities to learn more about our collective stories and shared past.This is a hybrid program that will be held both in person at the Library, and also presented virtually over Zoom. If you'd like to register for the in-person program, please sign up below. To register for the virtual program, please click here.