Derby Neck Library slates history talks, performance, movies, more

DERBY - The Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave., has scheduled a variety of activities for June.

Dinner and Movie

Dinner and a Movie, for ages 18 and older, will be presented at 5:30 p.m. June 2. This month’s feature is “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” a comedy starring George Clooney, set in the 1930s.  
The movie is shown in blu-ray on a large screen. Free movie refreshments will be served, as well as a free pizza dinner at intermission.  

Valley Shakespeare Festival

At 2 p.m. June 4, the Library will host the Valley Shakespeare Festival performing “Pericles: Prince of Tyre,” the story of a prince whose life is threatened after he solves the puzzle of a murderous king.  
This is a free performance which features professional actors in the starring roles.  

History presentation

The Library hosts David Leff, naturalist, historian, and author discussing “On the Paths of Genius: Finding Olmsted in Connecticut” at 6:30 p.m. June 7. This presentation follows the career of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in designing such parks as Seaside and Beardsley in Bridgeport, among others.  

This is a free program and registration is requested but not required.  

Tech Talks

On June 13 at 6 p.m. and again on June 15 at 10:30 a.m., the Library presents Tech Talks, a monthly event that focuses on what is new in technology and how to best use it in your daily life.   
You may also wish to bring your own questions.  For this month’s topic, call the library.

History of Osborndale Farm

The Library will present on powerpoint, “The History of Osborndale Farm and Frances Osborne Kellogg’s Environmental Career” at 6:30 p.m. June 14. 
This program has been researched by local historian and reference librarian, Patricia Sweeney, Ph.D. and covers the farm from its earliest days, including the gardens.
Kellogg’s extensive work in conservation will also be discussed.  

Women's Forum

At 12:30 p.m. June 20 the Library will host “Women’s Forum,” a discussion group that focuses on short stories, history, and other arts.  
This month’s topic is “The History of Osborndale Farm and Frances Osborne Kellogg’s Environmental Career,” researched by local historian and reference librarian, Patricia Sweeney, Ph.D.  Attendees may wish to bring a light lunch; we serve free coffee and tea. 

Movie night

The Library will present “I Spy Teen Movie Night” for both teens and tweens at 5 p.m. June 23. Free refreshments will be served, and attendees can search for answers to clues given before the movie begins.  
The person who gets the most answers correct will win a prize. Bring a friend for a fun evening. Registration is required.

Evening Book Club

On June 27 at 6:30 p.m., the Library will host the Evening Book Club, a literary discussion group that focuses on novellas and memoirs by award-winning authors.  This month’s book is Eudora Welty’s  “One Writer’s Beginnings,” a memoir.  
Copies of the book are available at the library.   
An informative and stimulating conversation takes place at each session.  

Teen Video Game

The Library hosts a Teen Video Game Tournament at 3 p.m. June 30. All teens are invited to bring their friends and compete on the Wii U.  
Check on library flyers and on www.derbynecklibrary.org for which games we will be playing. Registration is strongly recommended but not required.  

To register for any programs or for information call 203-734-1492.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

History, Tech Talks, movies, more offered in April at Derby Neck Library

DERBY - The Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave., has scheduled a variety of programs for April.

Dinner and a Movie
The Library presents Dinner and a Movie, for ages 18 and older at 5:30 p.m. April 7. 
This month’s feature film is “Brooklyn.”
Free refreshments will be served, including a pizza dinner at intermission. No registration is required.

Teen Movie Night
The Library presents Teen Movie Night at 5:30 p.m. April 14. This monthly event is open to teens and tweens. Attendees get to vote for a favorite movie, from a group of four feature films. 
Free refreshments will be served, including a pizza dinner.

Women's Forum
The Library hosts Women’s Forum, a discussion group that focuses on literature, history, and the arts, at 12:30 p.m. April 18.
This month we discuss two short stories by a contemporary author—Robert Lorenzi. Both stories, “Damage” and “Kristi, the Barmaid” are available free at the library. Bring a light lunch if you wish; we serve free coffee and tea.

Tech Talks
At 6 p.m. April 18 and again at 10:30 a.m. April 20, the Library presents Tech Talks. 
This is a monthly program that offers information on what is new in technology and describes how to best use it for your needs. Attendees are also free to bring their questions.

Writers' Round
At 6:30 p.m. April 21 the Library hosts Writers’ Round, a workshop for authors of all genres—fiction, poetry, prose, scripts, history, etc. Bring your original works to share with others.

Scarf tying
The Library presents Joann Czeczot with “Tying Fashion Scarves” at 2 p.m. April 24.
Learn all the special techniques involved in getting that special look for spring and summer. 
A variety of fashion hints will be offered to make the most of a simple, yet functional accessory. 
There is no program fee, but registration is requested. Attendees will be eligible for a free raffle. Bring a friend and enjoy an interesting afternoon.

Evening Book Club
At 6:30 p.m. April 25 the Library hosts the Evening Book Club which meets around the fireplace in the Reading Room. 
This month’s book is Jane Austen’s “Lady Susan.” Copies of the book are available at the library. Come enjoy an informational and stimulating evening.

'Newspapers in the Civil War'
At 6:30 p.m. April 26 the Library presents Prof. Hamish Lutris of Housatonic Community College speaking on “Newspapers in the Civil War.” 
This power point presentation will focus on the diverse and interesting manners in which reporters covered the war, including the use of telegraphy and their rough lives camping with soldiers. 
An informative and amusing talk on this fascinating era in American history. 

For details on any program or to register call 203-734-1492.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

Music, art, movies on tap at Derby Neck Library in August

DERBY - Derby Neck Library will present a free concert by Survivor Swing Band featuring swing music of the '20s and '30s and the Big Band sound that followed at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 1. 

Hear old tunes given a new flavor with up-beat improvisations. This is a four-piece band made up primarily of senior musicians who give a very fun and professional approach to their favorite music.

Collage making
The Library will present a Great Masters Collage session for kids ages 3 and older at 11 a.m. Aug. 3. 
Bring your children to create a mixed media masterpiece using paint, paper, ribbons, and markers, while learning how art works from instructor Kim Larkin. Registration is required.

Painting for teens

The Library will host a Teen Painting session at 2 p.m. Aug. 6. All teens and tweens are invited. 
Create your own masterpiece with our supplies and free instruction from a visiting member of the traveling Art Truck. Registration is required.

Cartooning for kids
The Library presents Cartooning for Kids at 1 p.m. Aug. 10. This is a free program for children ages 5 and older. Create your own characters and guide them through an adventure, or bring in your own ideas on making great cartoons. Registration is required.

Teen Movie Night
The Library hosts Teen I-Spy Movie Night, featuring “Man of Steel” at 4 p.m. Aug. 13. Watch the film and follow clues. The most number of correct answers wins you a prize. This event is open to both teens and tweens. 
There will be free refreshments, including a pizza dinner at intermission. Seating is limited; call to register.

Women's Forum
The Library hosts Women’s Forum at 12:30 p.m. Aug. 17. This discussion group focuses on the literary arts, especially short stories. 
This month we read “All Summer in a Day” by Ray Bradbury and “Getting Closer” by Steven Millhauser. 
Copies are available at the library. You may wish to bring a light lunch; free coffee and tea served.

Tech Talks
The Library presents Tech Talks at 6 p.m. Aug. 17. This is a free program that focuses on various aspects of technology and how recent advancements best work for you.

Flood of 1955
At 6:30 p.m. Aug. 18, the Library commemorates the 60th Anniversary of the Flood of 1955. Join us for a talk by a local resident/historian and a power point presentation of original photographs of the flood, donated by neighbors of the library. 
These photos have never been reproduced in the press. On exhibit will be the original local newspapers that covered the flood, also recently donated to us.

Tech Talks
The Library presents Tech Talks, an on-going monthly program in which we describe new advances in technology and how to best use them to your advantage at 10:30 a.m. Aug. 19.

Writer's Round
The Library hosts Writers’ Round at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 20. This is a free workshop for authors of all genres—history, scripts, essays, poetry, fiction, etc. Bring your original works and share them with others.

Evening Book Club
At 6:30 p.m. Aug. 31, the Library will offer the Evening Book Club. This discussion group meets monthly in the Reading Room of the library. We focus on shorter length books, including fiction, memoirs, and some non-fiction. 

All authors covered are award-winners. 
This month’s title is “A Lost Lady” by Willa Cather. Copies are available at the library. 

The library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.

This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

Derby Neck to host video game tourney, movies in July

Derby Neck Library

DERBY - Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library, has announced fun activities for July:

Video tournament
A Teen Video Game Tournament will be held from 2-4 p.m. July 1. The game featured is “New Super Smash Brothers” on our Nintendo Wii U. Free refreshments will be served.

Registration is not required, so bring a friend and have a fun afternoon.

Dinner and 'Jaws' showing 
At 5:30 p.m. July 2 the Library hosts Dinner and a Movie, for ages 18 and older. 
This month’s feature film, shown on blu-ray and a large screen, is “Jaws.” 
Free refreshments will be served, including a dinner at intermission. 

Registration is not required, but the door closes at 5:45 p.m. so do not be late.

'Captain America'
I-Spy Teen Movie Night will be held from 4-6 p.m. July 9.
This month’s movie is “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.” Teens are told to watch for clues throughout the showing and win a prize for the best number of finds. Free refreshments will also be served. 

Registration is required because seating is limited. Call the library at 203-734-1492 to register.

The library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

Derby Neck to mark Women's History Month, host 'Kerry Boys,' more in March

Derby Neck Library 

DERBY - The Derby Neck Library presents “Bedtime Music and Movement” with Miss Kathi at 6:30 p.m. March 11. Come sing and dance under our indoor stars. You may wish to wear your pjs and bring a favorite stuffed animal.

Women's Forum
The Library hosts “Women’s Forum,” a monthly discussion group that focuses on short stories, poetry, and history at 12:30 p.m. March 16. 
This month we celebrate Women’s History Month by reminiscing about inspirational women we have known and famous achievements by American women. 
Free coffee and tea available; you may wish to bring a light lunch.

Tech Talks
From 6-7:30 p.m. March 17 and from 10:30 a.m.-noon March 18 the Library presents “Tech Talks.” 
This free program offers ideas and instruction on how to best use new concepts and gadgets in technology to fit your needs. We offer a new topic each month, plus time to ask questions.

Therapy dogs
Therapy dogs Thor and Bailey visit the Library for B.A.R.K. (Be a Reading Kid) at 6:30 p.m. March 18. Parents are able to register their children for a 15-minute session to read to a trained listening dog. To select a time, call the library.
 To select a time, call the library.

'Writers' Round'
The Library offers “Writers’ Round” a workshop group for writers of all genres—prose, fiction, poetry, history, scripts, etc. at 6:30 p.m. March 19. Come share your original works and practice writing from an engaging prompt selection.

Celtic music

The Kerry Boys

The Library hosts The Kerry Boys in a free concert open to the public at 2 p.m. March 21. Enjoy this dynamic and highly engaging Celtic musical performance. 
These entertainers always give a crowd-pleasing, rousing time. 
To reserve a seat, call the library.

'Teen Movie Night'
The Library hosts “Teen Movie Night” from 5:30-7:30 p.m. March 24.This month’s feature film, shown on blu-ray, is “Mockingjay, Part One.” Free refreshments will be served, including a pizza dinner. 
Seating is limited; call ahead or stop in at the library to register. Ages 17 and younger are invited to attend.

'Evening Book Club'
The Library hosts the “Evening Book Club” at 6:30 p.m. March 30.
This group meets monthly to discuss books of short fiction, memoirs, and some non-fiction. 
This month’s selection is “Facts of Life” by Maureen Howard, her memoir of growing up in Bridgeport. Copies of the book are available at the library. 

The library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave. For information, registration, or to reserve a seat for the concert call 203-734-1492.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

Derby library to host movie for teens, women's series

DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to Teen Movie Night, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 30, for the screening of a newly released DVD. 

Refreshments will be provided. Registration is requested.

Just for Women

The Library is changing the format and content of its monthly series, Just for Women, which meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Monday of each month.

Beginning with the Jan. 5 meeting, informal sessions will include the reading of quotes 

reflecting life situations relevant to women.  
A wide variety of topics will be covered.  

Women of all ages are invited to share their thoughts as they feel comfortable.
In today’s world, women are under more pressure than ever before.

Take some time to do something for yourself and connect with other women.  

Valley resident and licensed professional counselor, Joan Joyce, will facilitate. 

Registration is requested, but walk-ins are also welcome.

For more information about any programs stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.



This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library. 

Derby Neck Library to host movie night, writers' workshop, more

Teen Movie Night
DERBY - The Derby Neck Library will host “Teen Movie Night” from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Nov. 18. 
This month's feature on blu-ray is "Maleficent." Seating is limited; please call ahead to register. 

Free snacks and a dinner are served.
All attending must be present before 5:45 p.m. when the doors close.

Be A Reading Kid
The Library will hold “B.A.R.K.—Be a Reading Kid” from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Nov. 19 featuring the listening dogs Thor and Bailey.
This program offers kids a 15-minute session to read to a gentle dog. Parents are asked to call ahead to register their children.

Writers' Round
From 6:30-8 p.m. Nov. 20 the Library will host “Writers’ Round.” This is a workshop for writers of all formats - prose, fiction, poetry, scripts, etc. 
Writing practice is part of the evening; come and be inspired. 

Book club
At 6:30 p.m. Nov. 24 the Library will host “Evening Book Club.” This is a monthly session which focuses on novella-length books of fiction, biography, or non-fiction.
All titles selected are award winners and written by authors of worth.

This month we explore “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” by Muriel Sparks. This book was featured on Broadway and also recreated as a movie.
Copies of the book are available at the library and are purchased for us by the Friends’ Club.

For details on any of these programs call 203-734-1492. The library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.