Book Discussion: Mill Town with author Kerri Arsenault

Monday, May 1st
5pm

Our monthly Book Discussion is welcoming a very special guest! Whether you have already read "Mill Town" or have it on your to-read list, all are invited to join the discussion with Kerri Arsenault on her critically acclaimed book.

Mill town is a personal investigation, where Arsenault sifts through historical archives and scientific reports, talks to family and neighbors, and examines her own childhood to illuminate the rise and collapse of the working-class, the hazards of loving and leaving home, and the ambiguous nature of toxins and disease.  Mill Town is a moral wake-up call that asks, “Whose lives are we willing to sacrifice for our own survival?”

Litchfield County Railroads

At Mine Hill Distillery (currently waitlist only)

Wednesday, May 3rd
5:30pm

Connecticut, long known as the Land of Steady Habits, came late to the railroad craze that swept the country in the 19^th century. This was especially true of Litchfield County. In fact, neighboring states had to prompt Connecticut into its first railroad ventures. When completed, however, these lines provided both a much more efficient means for the industrial and agricultural products of Litchfield County to reach national markets and a new way of travel for county residents. Vestiges of these railroads, like the Shepaug Railroad in Roxbury, serve as reminders of a bygone era of Litchfield County history.

Peter Vermilyea teaches history at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, CT. He is the author of “Hidden History of Litchfield County” and “Wicked Litchfield County”, both published by History Press.

The talk will start promptly at 5.30 pm in the beautifully restored train station at Mine Hill Distillery and is open to all ages. Following the talk we will adjourn to the distillery for a tour and sampling of Mine Hill’s award-winning beverages (21+).

Seating is limited. RSVP to reserve your spot.

Pop-Up Pub at the Hodge

Friday, May 5th
5:30 - 8pm

It’s the last Pop-Up Pub at the Hodge until fall. Don’t miss it!

Join your friends and neighbors for a fun gathering inside the Hodge Memorial Library (4 North St.) featuring festive beverages (beer, wine, cocktails & plenty of non-alcoholic options).

Proceeds benefit the Hodge Library.

Light snacks will be available, but feel free to bring your own as well.

The Friends of the Library’s Next Chapter Book Store will be open for browsing.

See you there!

Coming this summer: Concerts on the Lawn at the Minor Memorial Library and a Star Party to watch the Perseid Meteor Shower in August!

Art Opening Reception: Sue Melzmuf

Saturday, May 6th
2 - 4pm

TWIRL, “a word that summons fun and lightness and the speed at which my life has sped by”.

On view through Saturday, June 17th

Sue Melzmuf began painting with oils in her forties after a family tragedy, giving her new hope and anticipation for the future. Sue has shown and sold most of her work in galleries and shops like Watercolors on Block Island, R.I. and Finer Line Gallery in Mystic, CT, whose owner says “Sue has a happy palette with vibrant colors and paints uplifting scenes”. She has also shown her work throughout Connecticut in places like Chester, Killingworth, New Britain and Waterbury.

Having had a lot of commission work, she is proud to say that her work hangs from Alaska to Georgia and all over New England.

About her work, Sue quotes: “My art is just my art, it wants to be traditional but has a definite abstract bend”.

Everything Apples:

with James Wargo of Hidden Gem Orchard in Southbury

Wednesday, May 17th
5:30pm

Hidden Gem Orchard is a no-frills apple orchard located in the Purchase section of Southbury, CT.  It was established in 2017 on land that was formerly part of the Southbury Training School farm.  It currently consists of 4,000 apple trees grown on 6 acres. Approximately 3,000 trees were planted over a two-year period in 2017 and 2018. Smaller amounts were planted in subsequent years.

Presently, 31 apple varieties are grown with more being added each year. Some are “common” varieties that consumers are generally aware of such as Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Gala, Cortland and Fuji.  Others are either uncommon or antique apples that are scarcely available.

Hidden Gem Orchard is owned by James Wargo of Woodbury. He grew up in Woodbury and obtained a B.S. degree in Horticulture from The University of Connecticut. He went on to achieve a Master of Science in Pomology (fruit science) from Cornell University.

Events For Kids & Families

Nature Buddies

Monday, May 8th
3:15 - 4pm

Grades K - 2
Join Ms. Jean for fun and exploration this Fall! Children will experience nature through investigation, hands-on activities, and crafts. A healthy snack will be provided. Please alert us of any food allergies.

1) Register using THIS ONLINE FORM 2) Print permission note 3) Send note to school prior to the first day of the event.

To allow us time to prepare, registration must be received by the FRIDAY preceding the program.

Homeschoolers are welcome!

A library staff member will walk your child to the library from Booth School. In the event that school is cancelled, the program will be as well. Questions, email [email protected]

Preschool Music Party

Monday, May 15th
11:30am

Preschool Dance Party

Monday, May 22nd
11:30am

Comic Art Club

Monday, May 22nd
3:15 -  4pm

Let’s get drawing! Using prompts and activates, kiddos will develop their drawing skills and stretch their artistic comfort zone. A snack will be provided. Please alert us of any food allergies.

1) Register using THIS ONLINE FORM 2) Print permission note 3) Send note to school prior to the first day of the event.

To allow us time to prepare, registration must be received by the FRIDAY preceding the program.

Space is limited to 15 students

Homeschoolers are welcome!

A library staff member will walk your child to the library from Booth School. In the event that school is cancelled, the program will be as well. Questions, email [email protected]