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Hello, Friends!
Happy February! Southbury Public Library will be closed Monday, February 19, in observance of Presidents' Day. We look forward to seeing you all the other days this month!
A hike in the woods often reveals a variety of built stone cultural features. Many of these are the remains of abandoned farmsteads and industrial mill sites. Others, however, represent Native American ceremonial sites. Join us Tuesday, February 6, for an Author Talk with Lucianne Lavin, Director Emerita of Research and Collections at the Institute for American Indian Studies and author of Our Hidden Landscapes, as we explore the history of Southern New England’s Indigenous Ceremonial Stone Landscapes (CSLs). They are often unrecognized as the significant cultural landscapes they are, in dire need of protection and preservation. To register, click here.
Later on Tuesday, February 6, teens and adults can join us to learn about the A in LGBTQIA+ from 6-7pm with Cody Daigle-Orains of Ace Dad Talks. We'll learn the basics of asexuality (how it works, who is in the community, and what we can learn) with a special focus on how to support asexual youth.
Grades 2 through 5, join us for a Trivia & Bingo Afternoon from 2:30-3:30 on Tuesday, February 20! Join Miss Jen for Book, Movie, & TV Trivia plus themed BINGO.
To find out more about all our exciting events in February, see below!
If you know of friends or relatives who have trouble receiving this newsletter even though they signed up for it, information is available on our website here about how to make sure it goes through. Anyone with questions is also always welcome to contact us at 203-262-0626 ext. 2 for more information.
Best wishes,
The Staff of the Southbury Public Library
Table of Contents
- Southbury Public Library Adult Reading Challenge
- Adult Events
- Wednesday and Evening at the Movies
- Adult Book Clubs
- Technology Help
- Children and Teen Events
- Children and Teen Reading Challenges
- Children's Events
- Teen Events
- The Friends of the Southbury Public Library
- Brinker Fireplace Room Display: Southbury's Walking Trails
- Artist of the Month: James Ward
Southbury Public Library Adult Reading Challenge
Southbury Public Library Adult Reading Challenge
Ongoing, On Paper and Online on Beanstack
We invite everyone to participate in Southbury Public Library's inaugural Adult Reading Challenge event! Consisting of 12 different reading challenges, one per month, this is an ongoing event that will continue throughout the 2024 calendar year. After reading a book for this month's challenge, complete a short paper or digital form to tell us about the book. You will then be eligible for this month's prize! Submit a form for each of the 12 monthly challenges throughout 2024 and you will be eligible for the Reading Challenge's grand prize at the end of the year! This event, like all Southbury Public Library programs, is open to anyone regardless of town of residency.
The reading challenge for February 2024 is to read a book written by an author of color! A drawing will occur at the end of the month to decide the winner of a $25.00 gift card to Mercato Italian Kitchen and Bar!
To be eligible for this month's prize, after reading, complete a short paper or digital form to tell us about the book you chose for this challenge. Reading recommendations and paper forms are available at the library’s Reading Challenge display. Visit Beanstack to get started online. Completed forms must be received by Thursday, February 29, 2024.
Adult EventsInformation and Registration: Reference Department at 203-262-0626 ext. 2
All programs require registration unless otherwise noted. The majority of programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Southbury Public Library. Library programs are not funded by the town fiscal budget. For all virtual adult programs requiring registration, registrants will receive an email with the Zoom links the morning of the program.
Lucianne Lavin Author Talk
Tuesday, February 6, 1-2:30pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
Join us as Lucianne Lavin, Director Emerita of Research and Collections at the Institute for American Indian Studies and author of Our Hidden Landscapes, explores the history of Southern New England’s Indigenous Ceremonial Stone Landscapes. A hike in the woods often reveals a variety of built stone cultural features. Many of these are the remains of abandoned farmsteads and industrial mill sites. Others, however, represent Native American ceremonial sites often unrecognized as the significant cultural landscapes they are, in dire need of protection and preservation. To register, click here.
The A in LGBTQIA+
Tuesday, February 6, 6-7pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
In this talk with Cody Daigle-Orians (they/them) of Ace Dad Talks, we'll learn the basics of asexuality: how it works, who's in the community, and what we can learn from the asexual community. We'll also talk about ways we can create more affirming and inclusive space for the asexual folks in our schools, in our workplaces, and in our lives, with a special focus on how to support asexual youth. This event is open to Grades 6-12 and adults. To register, click here.
Adult Graphic Novel Club
Friday, February 9, 11:30am-12:30pm, Online and in the Brown Room, Registration Required
Join us for the Adult Graphic Novel Club! This is an adult focused group to discuss graphic novels and manga. Come with your ideas, experiences, opinions, and an open mind as we explore this amazing world of visual realism and fantasy! This month we'll be discussing Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi: In powerful black-and-white comic strip images, Satrapi tells the coming-of-age story of her life in Tehran from ages six to fourteen, years that saw the overthrow of the Shah’s regime, the triumph of the Islamic Revolution, and the devastating effects of war with Iraq. For more information, click here.
"It's a Wonderful Town": New York City in the Movies
Friday, February 9, 2-3:30pm, Online and in the Kingsley Room, Registration Required
For more than 125 years, filmmakers have been drawn to the dynamic vitality of New York City. Its dramatic architecture, its diverse neighborhoods and populations, its universally recognized landmarks, its 24/7 lifestyle, and its 8 million stories have helped make the city a featured player in more than 17,000 movies. Brian Rose returns for this presentation that demonstrates the changing ways New York has been captured on film, and why it still remains a star attraction today. For Zoom Program, register here. For Kingsley Room, register here.
Write it, Polish it, Publish It: A Writing Group - Session 4, Writing and Polishing
Saturday, February 10, 10am-2pm, Brown Room, Registration Required
Come join Southbury Poet Laureate Faith Vicinanza as she leads a writing workshop as part of a year long series. Explore the writing process through writing prompts and sharing your work. Continue your writing journey with us. For the first two hours we will work on on writing. For the second half we will start polishing. Bring with you 10 copies of a poem or a short prose work. To register, click here.
Recognizing Red, Yellow, and Green Flags in Relationships
Saturday, February 10, 1-2pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
In any relationship or friendship, challenges may occur. What are some red flags (signaling warning signs of unhealthy relationships), yellow flags (signaling caution), and green flags (signaling healthy rapport)? This event, presented by Dr. Wendy Hurwitz, will focus on the warning signs of unhealthy relationships, caution signs, as well as the hallmarks of healthy relationships and friendships. To register, click here.
James Ward’s Wildlife and Conservation Photography Presentation
Sunday, February 11, 1-2:30pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
Join us for an artist talk by James Ward. James Ward, a wildlife photographer with a passion for preserving the beauty of the natural world, is dedicated to capturing breathtaking moments in the lives of animals big and small. This month’s Gloria Cachion Gallery exhibition at the Southbury Public Library is a testament to Ward’s commitment to raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation through the lens of his camera. To register, click here.
President Who? Lesser-Known Presidents in American History
Thursday, February 15, 2-3:30pm, Online and in the Kingsley Room, Registration Required
Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Kennedy. These are familiar names to most Americans. But have you heard of Millard Fillmore, Chester A. Arthur, or Benjamin Harrison? Join us as historian Valerie Gugala explores these and other lesser-known Presidents. We will discuss who these men were, how they became President, and what they did once they had achieved that office. For Zoom Program, register here. For Kingsley Room, register here.
Tiny Art Show Submissions Due (All Ages)
Thursday, February 15, 9pm, Second Floor Circulation Desk, No Registration Required
Make sure to submit your art so we can include it in our Tiny Art Show! If you’d like to participate, you can pick up a canvas anytime from the Second Floor Circulation Desk! Find out more on our website here.
Langston Hughes and the Harlem Renaissance
Friday, February 16, 2-3:30pm, Online and in the Kingsley Room, Registration Required
Led by Dr. Bill Thierfelder, in this program we explore the contributions of Langston Hughes, one of the most visible writers of the Harlem Renaissance. His writing reflected the idea that black culture should be celebrated because of its value to the fabric of America and the world. Today, Hughes is recognized as one of the towering figures of American Literature whose accessible poetry challenges us to explore the power of diversity to create unity. For Zoom Program, register here. For Kingsley Room, register here.
The British Invasion and American Answer: A Musical Journey
Thursday, February 22, 2-3:30pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
Take a fun and nostalgic journey through the most iconic and greatest era of rock-and-roll history with author and pop culture historian Marty Gitlin. This presentation highlights performance videos of influential British Invasion superstars such as the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Kinks, Hollies, Dave Clark Five and The Who as well as American bands that provided a wonderful reply such as the Beach Boys, Mamas and Papas, Temptations, Simon & Garfunkel, Turtles and Rascals. Join us as we explore how these artists influenced pop culture and society. To register, click here.
Tiny Art Show On Display (All Ages)
Thursday, February 22 through Friday, March 22, Teen Department
Stop by anytime during library open hours to check out our Tiny Art Show! Come see all the awesome art made by community members of all ages. Find out more on our website here.
Let's Talk About Chromebooks!
Friday, February 23, 2-4pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
Perhaps you have heard of Chromebooks, a lower-cost, easy-to-use alternative to traditional laptops. Chromebooks are great for browsing the Internet, checking your email, watching movies, playing games, using Zoom, and accessing other cloud-based services. They are also able to be used for more traditional purposes such as word processing and spreadsheets. Come to this workshop and discussion with Mike Ingber to find out whether a Chromebook might be right for you or to learn more about the Chromebook that you already have! To register, click here.
Adult Coloring Club
Monday, February 26, 2-3:30pm, Brown Room, Registration Requested
Welcome to the Adult Coloring Club! Join us for a relaxing hour of therapeutic coloring in the Brown Room. Materials will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own supplies as well. Registration is requested. To register, click here.
Heart Health Lecture
Tuesday, February 27, 10-11am, Kingsley Room, Registration is Recommended
Happy Heart Health month! Join Community Health Nurse Heidi Bettcher, from Housatonic Valley Health District, to discuss important ways you can be heart healthy including topics on blood pressure, diet and cardiovascular health. Heidi Bettcher will also be present at Southbury Public Library to take your blood pressure on Monday, February 5, from 3pm-4pm and Tuesday, February 27, from 11am-12pm. To register for the Heart Health Lecture, click here.
Covered Bridges: A Journey Through History
Tuesday, February 27, 2-3pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
As many as 15,000 covered bridges were built in America over the past 200 years. Fewer than 1,000 remain. Each of these iconic wooden structures has a story to tell. Join Melinda Elliott, president of the Southbury Historical Society, in a exploration of discovery about covered bridges. She will weave an overview of the origins of the structures with fascinating stories, legends, and myths. To register, click here.
The Monroe Doctrine
Thursday, February 29, 2-3pm, Online and in the Kingsley Room, Registration Required
The Monroe Doctrine is the American foreign policy set in 1823, that the United States forewarned the imperial European powers against interfering in the affairs of the newly independent Latin American states or potential United States territories. The Monroe Doctrine set the stage for continued American expansion, west across this great and wondrous land. Join us as Mark Albertson examines the history and impact of the Monroe Doctrine. For Zoom Program, register here. For Kingsley Room, register here.
Celtic Music with The Jolly Beggars
Saturday, March 2, 1-3pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
The Jolly Beggars, a five-piece ensemble who play everything from guitars and drums to spoons and whistles, are back again! Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an afternoon of traditional Celtic music. To register, click here.
Wednesday at the Movies
What's Love Got To Do With It? (2022) PG-13
Wednesday, February 14, 1-3pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Requested
In London, an award-winning film-maker documents her best friend's journey into an assisted marriage in line with his family's Pakistani heritage. In the process, she challenges her own attitude towards relationships. Register here.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023) PG-13
Wednesday, February 21, 1-3:45pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Requested
Archaeologist Indiana Jones races against time to retrieve a legendary artifact that can change the course of history. Register here.
Past Lives (2023) PG-13
Wednesday, February 28, 1-3pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Requested
Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, are wrested apart after Nora's family emigrates from South Korea. Twenty years later, they are reunited for one fateful week as they confront notions of love and destiny. Register here.
Evening at the Movies
Dumb Money (2023) R
Thursday, February 8, 6-8pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Requested
David vs. Goliath tale about everyday people who flipped the script on Wall Street and got rich by turning GameStop (the video game store) into the world's hottest company. Register here.
The Holdovers (2023) R
Thursday, February 22, 6-8:15pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Requested
A cranky history teacher at a remote prep school is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a troubled student who has no place to go and a grieving cook. Register here.
Adult Book Clubs
The Southbury Public Library offers three book clubs: Tuesday Night Fiction Book Club, Nonfiction Book Club and Mystery Book Club. Join us for a discussion about this month’s books. Print copies are available at the Circulation Desk, there's no registration required and new members are always welcome!
Mystery Book Club
Monday, February 12, 3-4pm, Kingsley Room, No Registration Required
This month we'll be discussing The Woman in the Library: A Novel by Sulari Gentill.
The tranquility at the Boston Public Library is shattered by a woman's terrified scream. Security guards take charge immediately, instructing everyone inside to stay put until the threat is identified and contained. While they wait for the all-clear, four strangers, who'd happened to sit at the same table, pass the time in conversation and friendships are struck. Each has his or her own reasons for being in the reading room that morning - it just happens that one is a murderer. For more information, click here.
Nonfiction Book Club
Wednesday, February 14, 10-11am, Brown Room, No Registration Required
This month we'll be discussing And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle by Jon Meacham.
At once familiar and elusive, Abraham Lincoln tends to be seen as the greatest of American presidents—a remote icon—or as a politician driven more by calculation than by conviction. This illuminating new portrait gives us a very human Lincoln—an imperfect man whose moral antislavery commitment, essential to the story of justice in America, began as he grew up in an antislavery Baptist community; who insisted that slavery was a moral evil; and who sought, as he put it, to do right as God gave him to see the right. This book tells the story of Lincoln from his birth on the Kentucky frontier in 1809 to his leadership during the Civil War to his tragic assassination in 1865. For more information, click here.
Tuesday Night Fiction Book Club
Tuesday, February 27, 6:30-7:30pm, Brown Room, No Registration Required
This month we'll be discussing The House of Eve: A Novel by Sadeqa Johnson.
In 1950s Philadelphia, fifteen-year-old Ruby Pearsall is on track to becoming the first in her family to attend college. But a taboo love affair threatens to pull her back down into the poverty and desperation that has been passed on to her like a birthright. Eleanor Quarles arrives in Washington, DC, with ambition and secrets. When she meets the handsome William Pride at Howard University, they fall madly in love. But William hails from one of DC’s elite wealthy Black families, and his parents don’t let just anyone into their fold. Eleanor hopes that a baby will make her finally feel at home in William’s family and grant her the life she’s been searching for. But having a baby—and fitting in—is easier said than done. With their stories colliding in the most unexpected of ways, Ruby and Eleanor will both make decisions that shape the trajectory of their lives. For more information, click here.
Technology Help
Technology Help with James Chapin
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12-1pm, Reference Area, No Registration Required
Do you have technology questions or are you having issues with a device? Come by for help with local tech expert James Chapin. Feel free to ask your questions to our Reference Staff as well. For more information, click here.
Reference Technology Assistance
Did you know that the Reference Department offers assistance with mobile devices, downloading our e-resources, and more? If you have a simple question, stop by the Reference Desk more than an hour before we close and we can assist you. Like other Reference Questions, you may have to wait for a Reference Librarian to be available. If your question is more in-depth or you're not sure how long it will take, call the Reference Department at 203-262-0626 ext. 2 to inquire about making an appointment. Most of our assistance is related to answering questions about how to use a device, app, or website. We cannot touch your device directly, but instead we teach you how to do what you are looking for help with. If you have a hardware question or very technical question, we recommend visiting James Chapin during his Technology Help on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12-1pm.
Children and Teen Events
Information and Registration: Children/Teen Department at 203-262-0626 ext. 3
See below for information about our upcoming Children's and Teen Programming! All of our Children's and Teen Programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Southbury Public Library. Library programs are not funded by the town fiscal budget.
Children and Teen Reading Challenges:
1000 Books Before Kindergarten (0-PreK)
Ongoing, On Paper and Online on Beanstack
Read a book (any book!) to your newborn, infant, or toddler and keep track with a paper log or on Beanstack. Repeats count! If you read 1 book a day for 3 years, that’s 1095 books! 10 books a week for 2 years is 1040 books, and 3 books a day in one year is 1095 books. Every book you read you get one sticker, and if you finish you can get a certificate, small prize, and your picture on our wall of fame if you’d like! Pick up a paper log from the children’s department or visit Beanstack to get started online.
100 Books Before Graduation (Grades 9-12)
Ongoing, Online on Beanstack
Read 100 books before High School Graduation! 100 books may seem like a lot (and it is), but it works out to about 1 book every 2 weeks. When you sign up, get a special tracking bookmark to fill out as you read. Make it to half way and get a $5 Gift Card to Dunkin' or The Bakery. Read 100 books and get a special throw blanket! Every 10 books you read, pick out something from the prize box (pins, stickers, animal sticky notes, and more!). Visit Beanstack to find out more and get started!
Monthly Mini Reading Challenge: For the Love of Reading (PreK-Grade 12)
February 1-29, Online on Beanstack
Join us on Beanstack for our next Mini Monthly Reading Challenge! Complete the challenge within the month, and get a SurPRIZE! Our February theme is For the Love of Reading and our challenge consists of five hours of reading. Find out more and sign up on our Beanstack page here.
Who Was? Reading Challenge (All Ages, Best for Elementary School)
Ongoing, Paper Only
How many Who Was? Where Was? or What Was? books can you read? Get a checklist from our Children’s Department and keep track. Read 10 books and get your choice of special bookmark. You can repeat this challenge again if you read another 10. Click here to access the books in our catalog.
Children's Storytimes:
Drop-In Storytime (All Ages)
Monday, February 5, 12, & 26, 10-10:30am and 11-11:30am, Storytime Room, No Registration Required
Join Miss Jen for stories, rhymes, and a small craft every Monday except Presidents' Day (Library Closed). All ages are welcome. Find out more on our website here.
Take Your Child to the Library Day: Drop-In Storytime (All Ages)
Saturday, February 3, 10:30-11am, Storytime Room, No Registration Required
Join us on Take Your Child to the Library Day for a special drop-in storytime. We'll share books, rhymes, songs, and lots of fun! Find out more on our website here.
Babies & Books Storytime (6-24 Months)
Tuesday, February 6, 13, & 27, 10:30-11am, Storytime Room, Registration Required – Space Limited
Babies and Books is an interactive lapsit program for babies ages 6-24 months and their parents and caregivers. Find out more on our website here.
Toddler Time Storytime (Ages 2 & 3)
Wednesday, February 7, 14, & 21, 10:30-11am, Storytime Room, Registration Required – Space Limited
Parents and caregivers are invited to join their toddlers ages 2 and 3 for theme based stories, songs, and a craft. Find out more on our website here.
Special Events for Children:
Tunes & Tales (Ages 5 and Under)
Thursday, February 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 10:30-11am, Storytime Room, No Registration Required
Friday, February 2, 9, 16, & 23, 10:30-11am, Storytime Room, No Registration Required
Join Miss Jen for a morning filled with music and stories! Children will sing, dance, and experiment with simple musical instruments. Find out more on our website here.
Take Your Child to the Library Day: Craft-a-thon (All Ages)
Saturday, February 3, While Supplies Last, Second Floor, No Registration Required
We're celebrating the 13th annual Take Your Child to the Library Day! Stop by the Youth Services department for our Make or Take Craft-a-Thon. Make your craft while you browse for books or take home a fun and exciting winter or Valentine's paper craft to make later! Appropriate for all ages, though young children may need assistance. Find out more on our website here.
ARTuesday (All Ages)
Tuesday, February 6, 5-6pm, Storytime Room, No Registration Required
Do you love art? Join us for a playful, messy, and expressive art experience where there is no right or wrong. Come play and experiment with a variety of art mediums and themes. Smocks recommended. Please wear something you don't mind getting messy. Find out more on our website here.
LEGO Club (Ages 5-10)
Thursday, February 8, 4:30-5:30pm, Storytime Room, Registration Required (Waitlist Only)
Join us for an afternoon of LEGO fun! We’ll provide the LEGO bricks, and you bring the creativity! You can free build, or work off of instructions. Find out more and register on our website here.
Open House Make or Take Craft (All Ages)
Saturday, February 10, 17, & 24, All Day, Upstairs, No Registration Required
Stop by the Youth Services department Saturdays to make a thematic craft. Make it here or bring it home. Crayons and glue sticks are available in the library. Available while supplies last. Find out more on our website here.
BookCrafters Book Club Series (Grades 1-5)
Saturday, February 10, 2-3:15pm, Storytime Room, Registration Required - Space Limited
Join us to read, talk, and create! We will read and discuss a picture book and then do a craft based on the book. This month's theme is Our Favorite Books! Katie will share My Very Favorite Book in the Whole Wide World by Malcolm Mitchell. We will discuss our own favorite books, and learn how to make a heart-shaped book of our own. Feel free to bring your own favorite book if you want to show it during our discussion. Find out more and register on our website here.
Tiny Food Explorers (Ages 2-5)
Tuesday, February 13, 11am-12pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required - Space Limited
Join Tiny Food Explorers for some fun with food! Come and explore new flavors and textures while playing games all about food and MyPlate! You’ll make a hands-on healthy snack that even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. Find out more and register on our website here.
Tiny Art Show Submissions Due (All Ages)
Thursday, February 15, 9pm, Second Floor Circulation Desk, No Registration Required
Make sure to submit your art so we can include it in our Tiny Art Show! If you’d like to participate, you can pick up a canvas anytime from the Second Floor Circulation Desk! Find out more on our website here.
Trivia & BINGO Afternoon (Grades 2-5)
Tuesday, February 20, 2:30-3:30pm, Storytime Room, Registration Required
Need some vacation fun? Come warm up with some games at the library! Join Miss Jen for Book, Movie and TV Trivia, followed by a game of themed BINGO. All participants will be awarded a prize for competing. Find out more and register on our website here.
Graphic Novel Book Club: Witches of Brooklyn (Grades 3-5)
Thursday, February 22, 4:30-5:30pm, Brown Room, Registration Required – Space Limited
Rescheduled from January 16 date. Let's talk about graphic novels together! Join Miss Jen for a fun discussion about the book Witches of Brooklyn, by Sophie Escabasse. We can talk about what we loved (or didn't love) about the book, and it's a great time to share other graphic novels that you are reading with the rest of the club. You can borrow a copy of the book here at the library, and if you don't read the whole book before the program, that's ok! Find out more and register on our website here.
Tiny Art Show On Display (All Ages)
Thursday, February 22 through Friday, March 22, Teen Department
Stop by anytime during library open hours to check out our Tiny Art Show! Come see all the awesome art made by community members of all ages. Find out more on our website here.
Family Trivia Night (All Ages)
Friday, February 23, 6:30-8pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required - Space Limited
Join us for another Family Trivia Night! Work together as a family team to answer our trivia questions! We'll have a variety of topics, including kid-centric knowledge, general information, and questions aimed at parents, too. The family who answers the most questions correctly will win a $100 gift card to Riverview Cinemas! Find out more and register on our website here.
Paint-Your-Own-Plushie (Grades 1-5)
Saturday, February 24, 2-3:15pm, Storytime Room, Registration Required (Waitlist Only)
Join Katie to create your own unique plushie! After we paint our plushies, they can be left at the library to be stuffed and will be ready for pickup the following Wednesday. Choose one plushie to make: circle, heart, mushroom or moon. Find out more and register our website here.
Food Explorers: Three Cheese Pizza Bites (Ages 6 & Up)
Thursday, February 29, 4:30-5:30pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required (Waitlist Only)
Join Food Explorers to make Three Cheese Pizza Bites! You’ll be using crescent roll dough and filling your pizza bites with a delicious three cheese filling. You’ll dunk your cheesy pizza bites in marinara sauce to finish off the dish! Recipe is nut free but will contain dairy and gluten. Find out more and register on our website here.
Special Events for Teens:
The NEW Junior Friends (Grades 6-12)
Thursday, February 1, 6-7:30pm, Lower Level (Basement), Registration Required
Earn service hours while supporting the Friends! We’ll be working with the Friends on projects relating to their Lobby Sale and Annual Book Sale. The Junior Friends meet every first Thursday. Come just this once, or join us every month! Find out more and register on our website here.
The A in LGBTQIA+ (Grades 6-12 & Adults)
Tuesday, February 6, 6-7pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Requested
In this talk with Cody Daigle-Orians (they/them) of Ace Dad Talks, we'll learn the basics of asexuality: how it works, who's in the community, and what we can learn from the asexual community. We'll also talk about ways we can create more affirming and inclusive space for the asexual folks in our schools, in our workplaces and in our lives, with a special focus on how to support asexual youth. Find out more and register on our website here.
Food Explorers: Chocolate Beet Cake Pops (Grades 6-12)
Tuesday, February 13, 4-5pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required
Join Food Explorers for a special Valentine’s Day themed cooking class! We’ll be making pink chocolate beet cake pops with a bright pink glaze and decorated with piped chocolate hearts. This recipe is nut free but will contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. Find out more and register on our website here.
Tiny Art Show Submissions Due (All Ages)
Thursday, February 15, 9pm, Second Floor Circulation Desk, No Registration Required
Make sure to submit your art so we can include it in our Tiny Art Show! If you’d like to participate, you can pick up a canvas anytime from the Second Floor Circulation Desk! Find out more and register on our website here.
Teen To-Go Craft Kits: Koala Cord Keeper (Grades 6-12)
Starting Tuesday, February 20 while supplies last.
Pick up complete kits to make a Koala Cord Keeper from the Teen Department while supplies last. Each kit will have instructions and all supplies needed (except scissors). Find out more and register on our website here.
Tiny Art Show On Display (All Ages)
Thursday, February 22 through Friday, March 22, Teen Department
Stop by anytime during library open hours to check out our Tiny Art Show! Come see all the awesome art made by community members of all ages. Find out more on our website here.
Family Trivia Night (All Ages)
Friday, February 23, 6:30-8pm, Kingsley Room, Registration Required - Space Limited
Join us for another Family Trivia Night! Work together as a family team to answer our trivia questions! We'll have a variety of topics, including kid-centric knowledge, general information, and questions aimed at parents, too. The family who answers the most questions correctly will win a $100 gift card to Riverview Cinemas! Find out more and register on our website here.
Teen Advisory Board (Grades 6-12)
Tuesday, February 27, 6-7pm, Tutor Corner
Teen Advisory Board (TAB) members can directly influence our teen book and AV collections, teen programming and events, and other teen services. Each monthly meeting opens with a discussion about ideas for programs, materials, and more and closes out with some special volunteer projects. If you are interested in becoming a TAB member, fill out the application form on our website and we will contact you.
The Friends of the Southbury Public LibraryThe Friends of the Southbury Public Library sponsor almost all of our fun virtual and in-person programs found on the calendar page of our website. For more information about the Friends, click here.
Friends Donation Survey
The Friends of the Southbury Public Library are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Our mission is to support the library, funding its programs through the sale of donated books at our year-round lobby sale and annual book sale. Many of our unsold books are donated to a nonprofit that delivers them to schools in Kenya. We are considering financially supporting the nonprofit by storing and shipping the books. Click here to fill out our anonymous survey to let us know your thoughts.
Winter Lobby Book Sale
Ongoing through Wednesday, February 14, Open During Library Hours, Lobby and Gloria Cachion Art Gallery
The Friends of the Southbury Public Library are having a Winter Lobby Book Sale! Located in the lobby and Gloria Cachion Art Gallery of the Southbury Public Library, the Winter Lobby Book Sale is ongoing through Wednesday, February 14. This sale features a wide selection of books for all ages, including Children’s, Cooking, Boutique, History, Biography, Fiction, Nonfiction, Special Interest and so much more. Open during library hours and refreshed regularly with new books, there's something for everyone at the Winter Lobby Book Sale!
Book Donations
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11:30am, Library's Below Ground Rear Entrance
Donate gently-used or new books (hardcover & paperback) for adults, teens and kids, DVDs, music CDs, audiobooks on CD, puzzles, vinyl records, and collectibles! Please bring donations to the library's below ground rear entrance, as indicated in red in the picture above, every Tuesday and Thursday from 10-11:30am.
Library Coffee Station
Year-Round, Open During Library Hours, Lobby
The Friends of the Southbury Public Library's Coffee Station is up and running! Located in the lobby of the Southbury Public Library, just $1.00 gets you a steaming hot cup of coffee or tea! All proceeds go to the Friends of the Southbury Public Library.
Donation Day
Saturday, March 16, 10am-3pm, Library's Below Ground Rear Entrance
Donate gently-used or new books (hardcover & paperback) for adults, teens and kids, DVDs, music CDs, audiobooks on CD, puzzles, vinyl records, and collectibles. Unloading assistance will be provided! Please bring donations to the library's below ground rear entrance, as indicated in red in the picture above. Find out more about Donation Day on our website here. If you're a teenager interested in volunteering on Donation Day to earn service hours, please fill out this interest form and we will reach out to you.
2024 Friends Scholarship
Applications are due Monday, March 25
Applications for the Friends of the Southbury Public Library Inc. 2024 Scholarship are now available! Scholarship(s) up to $2000 will be awarded.
With a heavy emphasis on your involvement with library activities and library volunteering, there are three other points of consideration: academics, extra curriculars, and a written essay. Residents of the town of Southbury who are a graduating High School Senior with plans to continue their education in the 2024-25 academic year are eligible.
Completed application and essay reflection must be delivered to the Reference Desk at the Southbury Public Library by 5:30pm on Monday, March 25, 2024. Find out more (including how to get a copy of the application) on our website here.
Brinker Fireplace Room Display: Southbury's Walking Trails Display
Southbury's walking trails are on display this month in the Brinker Fireplace Room! This display was created by the Southbury Land Trust. Southbury Land Trust's mission is to preserve and protect farmland, open space, and natural resources, along with the plants and wildlife within, for the benefit of present and future residents of Southbury. Find out more at southburylandtrust.org!
Artist of the Month: James Ward
The Gloria Cachion Gallery at the Southbury Public Library is proud to announce a captivating wildlife photography exhibit by wildlife photographer James Ward. The exhibition will run from Friday, February 2, 2024 through Wednesday, February 28, 2024 and promises to transport visitors into the heart of the world’s most awe-inspiring wildlife destinations. If you'd like, you can also join us for a talk with James Ward from 1-2pm on Sunday, February 11.
James Ward, a wildlife photographer with a passion for preserving the beauty of the natural world, is dedicated to capturing breathtaking moments in the lives of animals big and small. This exhibition is a testament to Ward’s commitment to raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation through the lens of his camera.
Visitors to the exhibit can expect to be enthralled by the vivid and intimate portraits of animals in their natural habitats. From the majestic grace of African elephants to the delicate beauty of a flamboyance of flamingos, Ward’s keen eye and technical mastery bring these subjects to life with unparalleled clarity and detail. The photographs represent Ward’s travel to remote wild spaces around the world, including Botswana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Indonesia, and Alaska.
Ward is also a safari guide and agent and his company, Safari Professionals, specializes in designing tailor-made conservation-based safaris to Africa, India, Malaysia, Patagonia, Antarctica, and other wildlife destinations around the world. He also leads wildlife photography workshops to unique wild locations globally. James is a resident of Southbury with his wife, Hollie, and three daughters, Camryn, Payton, and Reagan.
The Southbury Public Library, known for its commitment to promoting cultural enrichment within the community, is thrilled to host such a beautiful exhibition. Head Librarian, Heather S. Aronson, expressed excitement about the upcoming event, stating, “James Ward’s work is not only visually stunning but also carries a powerful message about the fragility and beauty of our planet’s biodiversity. We believe this exhibit will resonate deeply with our community and inspire a greater appreciation for the natural world.”
Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast, a photography connoisseur, or someone simply seeking inspiration, this exhibit promises an unforgettable experience.
The exhibit will be open during regular library hours which are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:30am to 5:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday 9:30am to 9:00pm, Saturdays 9:30am to 4:00pm and Sundays 12:00pm to 5:00pm. The exhibit will also be online as a virtual gallery here. Please visit our website to learn more.