Pequot Library Under the Arches 2024 | May June July August

UNDER THE ARCHES PEQUOT LIBRARY

LIBRARY HOURS

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10am – 6pm

Thursday 10am – 8pm

Saturday

10am – 4pm (May & June)

10am – 2pm (July & August)

Sunday Closed

PEQUOT LIBRARY

HOLIDAY CLOSINGS

Memorial Day Weekend

Saturday, May 25 –

Monday, May 27

Juneteenth

Wednesday, June 19

Independence Day

Thursday, July 4

Labor Day Weekend

Saturday, August 31 –

Monday, September 2

FRONT COVER

Ephraim Chambers, Cyclopaedia: or, an Universal Dictionary of Arts and Sciences vol VI (London: J.F. & C. Rivinginton et al, 1736); Pequot Library Special Collections

DESIGN: Victoria Konopka

CONTENT: Grace Calderon, Christine Catallo, Stephanie J. Coakley, Cecily Dyer, John Kofron, Tierney Latham, Owen Lockwood, Leslie Mahtani, Jane Manners, Princess McCann, Jessica McEntee, Charlie McMahon

A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR

Dear Pequot Library Friends,

Welcome to the summer 2024 edition of Under the Arches. It is our hope that Pequot Library fosters lifelong learning by serving as a vital destination and cultural hub. In fact, more and more lately, I have been describing the library as a center for arts and culture, fulfilling the mission our founders set in the late 19th century when we first opened our doors. Speaking of which, Pequot Library celebrates its 135th birthday this year! We are proud to unveil our new temporary logo celebrating this milestone, and you’ll see it throughout our spring and summer collateral.

Read on to discover all that we have in store for the coming months as we prioritize this mission. For one, I hope you can save the date for the Southport Garden Stroll on Friday, June 7. The stroll has become one of my favorite Pequot Library events of the year. You do not want to miss it! It is also worth mentioning that this summer season, you will notice we are highlighting preservation, reuse, and sustainability in a variety of forms, from recycling paper and elements of book production to youth and adult programs about sustainability. And of course don’t forget the summer book sale in late July, which is perhaps our longest running example of reuse at its best! Come shop preloved books and other media. By doing so, you are helping to support our operations, programs, and more.

Thank you, as always, for all of your support. Whether you are making a donation or volunteering your time and talent, we appreciate each of you.

I look forward to seeing you at Pequot Library this summer,

Stephanie J. Coakley, Executive Director

LIBRARY NEWS

BY POPULAR DEMAND!

Pequot Library is pleased to offer a selection of adult books in Spanish, Hindi, and Portuguese, along with a selection of children’s books in Spanish, French, and Chinese. Library staff have acquired books in these languages thanks to collecting patron feedback. Visit the stacks and Children’s Library to check out these materials.

Staff have also expanded book purchasing to include a wider selection of adult, large print titles available now in the stacks.

Want something else in our circulating collection? Keep the suggestions coming! Contact us at libraryservices@pequotlibrary.org.

CLIMATE CRISIS RESOURCES

The climate crisis is one of the biggest threats to our world, and Pequot Library is striving to raise more awareness with resources available on our website (scan the QR code) and a permanent book display featuring a rotating array of titles. This display is a fixture in our Reading Room, on the fireplace mantle.

In addition, the summer exhibition, Waste Not: Preservation at Play, celebrates sustainability in books. Stay tuned for more related programming from Pequot Library. As always, a great way to go green, cut waste, and foster reuse is to check out books and resources from the library!

MEET THE AUTHOR

ANDRÉ ACIMAN

Thursday, May 2 6:00 p.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Join award-winning writer André Aciman, author of acclaimed books such as Call Me by Your Name and Out of Egypt, for an enlightening discussion on his themes, process, and inspiration. Aciman was born in Alexandria, Egypt and is an American memoirist, essayist, novelist, and scholar of 17thcentury literature. He is the New York Times bestselling author of Call Me by Your Name and Find Me, as well as Out of Egypt, Alibis , False Papers , Enigma Variations , and Eight White Nights. Homo Irrealis, his new collection of essays, appeared in January 2021. His memoir, A Roman Year, will be published in autumn of 2024. Aciman is the director of the Writers’ Institute and is Distinguished Professor of Comparative Literature at the Graduate Center, CUNY.

MARGIE SMITH HOLT

Thursday, May 16 6:00 p.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Four-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Margie Smith Holt will present her new memoir, Not On Any Map: One Virgin Island, Two Catastrophic Hurricanes, and the True Meaning of Paradise . Holt witnessed the impact of two consecutive Category 5 hurricanes on a small Caribbean island. Not On Any Map is the inspiring story of a community’s struggle to survive and rebuild without losing its sense of humor. Part love letter, part elegy, Not On Any Map illuminates the fragility of the Earth’s most beautiful places and calls into question the very meaning of paradise in a time of climate crisis. This talk will also appeal to anyone interested in sailing. Whether you’re new to the activity or a seasoned salt, there will be plenty to learn.

STEPHEN PANUS

Thursday, May 23 6:00 p.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Southport resident Stephen Panus will be presenting his new book Walk On, the powerful true story of a father faced with every parent’s worst nightmare. Describing unbearable loss, Panus transcends grief and offers inspiration towards leading a life filled with meaning. Drawing upon wisdom, leadership, and a 30-year career as a sports marketing executive, Panus provides real-world application of indispensable values and traits that illuminate a pathway for turning pain into purpose and becoming the best version of ourselves. We all suffer in some manner, and no matter what happens or how it happens, we all must ‘Walk On’ in our lives.

LIBRARY SPEAKERS CONSORTIUM |

VIRTUAL AUTHOR TALKS

As a member of the Library Speakers Consortium, Pequot Library is proud to present an expanded roster of author events. Thanks to our partnership with libraries across the country, we offer online events each month with authors like Geraldine Brooks, Cassandra Clare, Joy Harjo, and Amor Towles. Explore a selection of upcoming online author talks below; scan the QR code to view the full calendar of upcoming talks.

MAY

DOUGLAS BRUNT

The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel

Wednesday, May 1 3:00 p.m.

NINA SIMON

Mother-Daughter Murder Night

Wednesday, May 8 7:00 p.m.

REBECCA F. KUANG

Yellowface

Tuesday, May 21 7:00 p.m.

JUNE/JULY

FREIDA MCFADDEN

The Teacher

Thursday, June 13 8:00 p.m.

KATE DICAMILLO

Ferris

Tuesday, July 9 2:00 p.m.

MAX BRALLIER

The Last Comics on Earth

Tuesday, July 16 2:00 p.m.

JULY/AUGUST

ELIZABETH ACEVEDO

Family Lore

Tuesday, July 23 2:00 p.m.

DAN SANTAT

A First Time for Everything

Wednesday, July 31 2:00 p.m.

SHELBY VAN PELT

Remarkably Bright Creatures

Wednesday, August 21 7:00 p.m.

FUNDRAISERS

DERBY DAY CELEBRATION

Saturday, May 4

4:00 p.m. | In person

PURCHASE TICKETS AND TAILGATES ONLINE

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR TICKETS AND DETAILS.

Experience the excitement of the Kentucky Derby at Pequot Library! Stroll around the Great Lawn to view festive hats, attire, and decorated tailgates. Bid on Silent Auction items and use your Derby Dollars to enter to win raffle items, take home a bottle of bourbon from the Bourbon Wall, or choose your winning horse in the 50/50 raffle. New this year: be the first in New England to experience the mobile driving range Dryvebox. Prizes will be awarded for closest to the pin, along with trophies for Best Hat, Best Dressed, and Best Tailgate. Watch the “Run for the Roses” on the big screen in the auditorium, and celebrate with Kentucky fare and an open bar in the Main Tent. Keep the party going with DJ Rob and delicious snacks during the after party. For every ticket sold, we’ll donate $1 to the Retired Racehorse Project.

Sponsored by

SUMMER BOOK SALE

Friday, July 26 – Tuesday, July 30

See hours below | In person

ADMISSION IS FREE

One of the largest book sales in New England, the Summer Book Sale draws book lovers from near and far with a selection of over 100,000 items in over 60 categories. The five-day sale is held in large tents on the Great Lawn and parking lot and in the auditorium and Reading Room of the library.

SOUTHPORT GARDEN STROLL

Thursday, June 6 and Friday, June 7 In person

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR TICKETS AND DETAILS.

The Southport Garden Stroll features events and activities showcasing a selection of Southport’s finest private gardens. The festivities begin on June 6 with an intimate cocktail party. The celebration continues on June 7 with garden tours, engaging conversations, food trucks, a Rosé All Day tent, live music, raffle items, vendor displays, and more!

Thursday, June 6

Cocktail Kickoff Party: with designer Victoria Hagan | 6:00 p.m.

Friday, June 7

Coffee and Conversation: with renowned architect Robert Dean | 8:30 a.m.

Southport Garden Stroll | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Closing Party on the Great Lawn | 3:30 p.m.

Dates

Friday, July 26: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Saturday-Monday, July 27-29: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, July 30: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Categories Biography

Fiction

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

ADULT PROGRAMS

PEQUOT LIBRARY BUILDING AND HISTORY TOUR

Saturday, May 18 10:00 a.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION ENCOURAGED $10 PER PERSON

Pequot Library is included on the National Register of Historic Places and received the Connecticut Treasures Award in 2018. Learn about the history of Pequot Library, which was founded by Southport resident Virginia Marquand Monroe in 1889, while exploring the building’s iconic Tiffany & Co. stained glass windows, original steel stacks wing, glass floor, and historic reading rooms. Space is limited to 20 participants.

PEQUOT LIBRARY PRESENTS: MERCHANT IVORY FILM SERIES

Tuesdays: June 4, 11, 18, 25; July 2, 9 2:00 p.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION ENCOURAGED

Escape the summer heat with relaxing, soothing classic films from the dynamic team of James Ivory and Ismail Merchant. They are known for directing many of the best period dramas of all time, and this will be an opportunity to view a wide range of them. From the palaces of the British Raj to the drawing rooms of Victorian London, this series will surely delight all viewers.

June 4: Remains of the Day

June 11: Maurice

June 18: Howard’s End

June 25: The Bostonians

July 2: Heat and Dust

July 9: Mr. & Mrs. Bridge

HOUSE HISTORY WORKSHOP

Friday, June 21 11:00 a.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION ENCOURAGED

Join Pequot Library staff members for an informative, hour-long workshop on how to conduct historic house research. While this program will focus primarily on Fairfield and Southport, attendees will learn skills applicable to any geographic area.

Made possible through the wealth of our Special Collections, participants will learn tips and tricks for conducting research at Pequot Library, online, and in local records.

UNDER THE ARCHES: CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES

Fridays: June 21, June 28, July 12 6:00 p.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

This summer’s outdoor chamber music series will focus on Early Music, a relatively loose term encompassing all choral and instrumental music stretching from the early Middle Ages through the Renaissance and to the middle of the 17th century. This music is marked by beautiful, textured vocals and melodic harpsichords and lutes, and there is no better place to enjoy this beauty of sound than Pequot Library’s Great Lawn.

ELM CITY CONSORT

Friday, June 21

HISTORIC SOUTHPORT WALKING TOURS

Saturdays: June 22, July 20, August 17 10:00 a.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED $10 PER PERSON

Enjoy a docent-led walking tour of historic Southport and step back in time to a bygone era. Learn about the harbor, onion fields, taverns, and the many families who once lived here. Meet on Pequot Library’s Great Lawn. Limited to 12 attendees per tour.

Private walking tours are also available and may be planned according to your schedule. The cost is $25/person; 8 guests minimum, 12 guests maximum per group.

JOE JONES

Friday, June 28

HISTORIC PRESERVATION PANEL

Thursday, July 11 5:00 p.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Join area historic preservationists for a panel discussion regarding the significant challenges facing the historical sites and communities of Connecticut. Experts will highlight buildings in Southport, as well as farther afield. This discussion will be moderated by local preservation enthusiast David Green, former executive director of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, and will feature Wes Haynes, director of the Merritt Parkway Conservancy, as well as other area specialists.

PIFFARO WITH GRANT HERREID & PRISCILLA HERREID

Friday, July 12

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

CURRENT EXHIBITION | ON VIEW THROUGH MAY 11, 2024

CHARTING YOUR COURSE: CUTTING-EDGE NAVIGATION AND SEAFARING

In this exhibition, The Principles of Mr. Harrison’s Time-Keeper; with Plates of the Same (London: W. Richardson & S. Clark, 1767) is paired with exemplary materials from the history of marine navigation from Pequot Library’s Special Collections, including 16th-century published works of Ptolemy and Apian. Navigation manuals and manuscript workbooks, with which local students learned the principles of navigation, illustrate how navigational discovery and learning allowed coastal Connecticut to participate in global trade, shaping the local culture and economy in ways that are still felt today. Connecticut Humanities has provided support for the exhibition and the Meet the Author talk with Dava Sobel on April 25.

CHARTING YOUR COURSE EXHIBITION-RELATED PROGRAMS

FLASHLIGHT CONSTELLATIONS

Wednesday, May 1

4:30 p.m. | In person | For ages 7+

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Have you ever looked up at the sky on a starry night? Join us as we learn about the pictures stars can make, and then we’ll create a flashlight constellation.

TALES FROM THE RESOLUTION: SAILING ADVENTURES WITH TEENS ON LONG ISLAND SOUND

Thursday, May 9

6:00 p.m. | In person | For adults and families

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Sea Scouts Ship 84 has been sailing out of Southport Harbor since the 1930s. Currently sailing The Resolution, this coed, youth leadership development program provides teens with the chance to go on day sails, overnights, and multiday cruises on Long Island Sound while learning navigation and seamanship. Learn more from Ship 84’s leaders, Erol Eyikan and Paul Lukas.

LEARN THE ROPES!

Saturday, May 11

2:00 p.m. | In person at Ye Yacht Yard | For children and families

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

In this offsite program at Ye Yacht Yard on Harbor Road, children and families will have the chance to board The Resolution and learn how a sailing vessel is rigged and operated, with crafts and demonstrations from Sea Scouts from Ship 84.

BEHIND

SCENES THE

CARING FOR PEQUOT LIBRARY’S SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

BY CECILY DYER SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIAN

At Pequot Library you’ve likely seen treasures from our Special Collections displayed in exhibitions that rotate throughout the year. The 17th century folios of Shakespeare and The Principles of Mr. Harrison’s Timekeeper—a 1767 publication that documents the invention of the marine chronometer—are just a few of the rare books that Pequot Library has exhibited in recent months. Rare books and manuscripts have been a core component of Pequot Library’s mission from its founding in 1889, and they are one of the elements that makes our library so special.

What visitors don’t see are the preparations that begin well in advance of exhibitions, including treatment by conservation experts at the Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) in Andover, Massachusetts. Founded in 1973, NEDCC was the first independent laboratory in the United States to specialize exclusively in the conservation and preservation of paper-based collections.

The Principles of Mr. Harrison’s Timekeeper and three of Shakespeare’s folios are among the items that NEDCC has treated. Conservators carefully surface-cleaned them, mended tears and folds with thin Japanese Kozo paper, and disbound and resewed weak or damaged bindings. This work helped ensure that the books could be safely exhibited, and is one of several ways that Pequot Library seeks to fulfill its mission to care for its Special Collections.

Thomas Jefferys’ The American Atlas, published in 1778, is one of several items currently at NEDCC awaiting

conservation. Described by the late map expert Walter Ristow as a “one of the most authoritative and comprehensive atlases of America,” it would very likely have been consulted by American, English, and French civilian administrators and military officers during the American Revolution. What makes Pequot Library’s copy especially remarkable is the addition of four rare, early American maps, including the second map published in the newly independent United States and a 1782 map of the Battle of Yorktown. Pequot Library intends to display this stunning atlas in 2026 as we commemorate and interpret the 250th anniversary of American independence, but it needs extensive treatment to avoid further harm and deterioration.

Conservation is specialized work that carries a significant cost, yet it means that these exceptional materials— some collected by the library’s founders over a century ago, others generously donated in more recent years— can be both safely displayed and made accessible to researchers for generations to come. This necessary work is undertaken in part with the generous support of the Dillon Fund and Anonymous. If you are interested in contributing to conservation efforts, please contact Special Collections at support@pequotlibrary.org.

Images above: A rare 1776 broadside from Pequot Library’s collections, recently conserved, will be exhibited in 2026, the 250th anniversary of American independence.

Connecticut Governor. Jonathan Trumbull. Proclamation regarding the exportation of goods from the Colony of Connecticut, 17 June, 1776; Pequot Library Special Collections

UPCOMING EXHIBITION | ON VIEW JUNE 20 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2024

WASTE NOT: PRESERVATION AT PLAY

Pequot Library’s Special Collections contain many examples of bindings created from reused materials, including vellum manuscripts, wallpaper, newspapers, and handwritten paper documents. Other books in the collection serve purposes not originally intended, used by their owners as scrapbooks or to press and preserve botanical specimens—some of which are now considered endangered.

Inspired by the 2024 summer reading theme Read. Renew. Repeat. (see pages 16-17), Waste Not examines the ways that book creators and owners have reused materials available to them, made their own “folk repairs,” or given new purpose to books. Explore a diverse selection of Special Collections books dating back to 1570, while considering the value of reuse and preservation of resources in a culture built on disposability.

EXHIBITION OPENING RECEPTION

Thursday, June 20 6:00 p.m. | In person

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Be the first to see Waste Not: Preservation at Play and explore the variety of materials on display. Enjoy a gallery tour led by Special Collections Librarian Cecily Dyer.

WASTE NOT EXHIBITION-RELATED PROGRAMS

MAKE YOUR OWN RECYCLED PAPER

Wednesday, July 10 3:30 p.m. | In person | For ages 8+

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

We all know how important it is to recycle, but do you know how easy and fun it is to make your own paper out of recycled materials? This program will cover the basics of making recycled paper, how to press flowers into paper creations, and even how to embed seeds into paper for garden projects.

FLOWER PRESSING WORKSHOP

Wednesday, July 17

3:30 p.m. | In person | For ages 8+

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Inspired by the pressed flowers and ferns in our summer exhibition, Waste Not: Preservation at Play, participants in the program will pick flowers from Aspetuck Land Trust’s demonstration garden, use the SEEK app to identify them, and press and label their finds in herbariums made from repurposed books.

Banner image above:

John Flavel, A Saint indeed: or, the Great work of a Christian opened and pressed... ([Boston?]: unknown, circa 1730); Pequot Library Special Collections

David Hume, Essays and Treatises on Several Subjects, vol II (London: Printed for A. Millar, 1760); Pequot Library Special Collections

MEET THE MOORE FAMILY &

PEQUOT LIBRARY SUPPORTERS

Join Pequot Library’s supporters and make a secure, tax-deductible donation online anytime by scanning the QR code. A

Samantha and George Moore live in the beach area of Fairfield with their children Penelope (8), Mirabel (5), and Wilson (2). They have lived in Fairfield for nine years, and Samantha also grew up in town. They love living near the center of town and being able to walk to so many restaurants, shops, and the beach!

What do you love about Pequot Library?

1 2 3

We love so much about Pequot Library, from the special events throughout the year—such as the 4th of July Bike Parade and the Derby Day Celebration—to the classes and workshops for kids; there is always something for everybody in the family. We also love the intimate feel of the library and the building itself. Pequot Library is so beautiful and has such a rich history.

5 4

Why is it important to support Pequot Library by making an annual contribution?

It is an easy choice for us to support the library with an annual contribution because of all our family gets from Pequot Library. We’re proud to support the library and its ambition toward providing enriching events and services for our community. We hope that everyone who visits the library can see why Pequot Library is deserving of their philanthropy.

What is your favorite thing to do at Pequot Library?

Our favorite thing to do at the library is attend baby and toddler classes with Miss Jane! All three of our kids participated in Babes on a Blanket when they were 0-12 months old and then graduated to Music and Movement for Wigglers. Miss Jane is so kind and patient, and we always look forward to seeing her. Our oldest child, Penelope, enjoyed reading to Pequot Library’s late resident pet, Coco the bunny—a special way to build her reading skills and her love of reading!

What do you love to share about Pequot Library?

One thing people might not know is that Pequot Library houses an extensive rare books and archives collection, spanning back to the 15th century, with a focus on early Americana. These materials are available to view by appointment and also curated into three exhibitions each year. We’ve had the opportunity to see some of the collection, and it is wildly fascinating and impressive. We are happy to be a small part of the support that keeps historical preservation alive.

What books do the littlest members of the Moore family recommend?

Penelope, age 8

Mirabel, age 5

Wilson, age 2

READ. RENEW.

SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN & TEENS

FRIDAY, JUNE 14 – WEDNESDAY, JULY 31

Pequot Library invites children to explore the idea of conservation and personal rejuvenation with a wide range of programs. Join us for birdwatching or to learn more about planting a pollinator garden. Take part in our weekly Audubon Pollinator Scavenger Hunt or enjoy a storytime with a nature walk in Southport Park and so much more!

How it works: Every participant will receive a Summer Programs Attendee Card with eight circles. Children earn a stamp on each circle every time they participate in a summer program, including our weekly Audubon Pollinator Scavenger Hunt. (Find each week’s scavenger hunt object and earn one stamp.) Participants with four stamps will receive a $5 voucher to our Summer Book Sale. Eight stamps will get you an additional $20 Summer Book Sale voucher and a chance to win a raffle prize. In-person registration is required and begins at Miss Susan’s Summer Supper and Campout on Friday, June 14. Summer Programs at Pequot Library run through July 31.

Summer programs for children: pages 19, 21-23

Summer programs for teens: page 20

Exhibition-related programs for children and families: page 13

LIBRARY BOOK BUDDIES

For all ages

Children of any age can practice reading in person or on Zoom with our Children’s Librarian. Email childrens@pequotlibrary.org to schedule your appointment.

BABY BOOK KITS

For ages 0-3

Sign up for Baby Book Kits to check out two board books and two picture books based on a theme such as zoo animals, colors, shapes, or dinosaurs, plus one book to keep. Scan the QR code to fill out our online form.

REPEAT.

SUMMER READING FOR ADULTS

FRIDAY, JUNE 14 – SATURDAY, AUGUSTS 24

Connecticut’s summer reading theme for 2024 is Read. Renew. Repeat. It promotes conservation and reading for self-preservation. Checking out books and audiobooks from your local library is a great way to support conservation by fostering reuse. Sign up at the Front Desk for Pequot Library’s adult summer reading program. When you sign up, you’ll get a card that will be stamped each time you check out materials at Pequot Library. After your card is stamped 10 times, you will be entered into our summer raffle for the chance to win a beachy prize from Foxtrot Home, a vintage and antiques shop dedicated to artfully reimagining furniture with one-of-a-kind heirloom finishes.

YA BOOK BUNDLES

For grades 7-12

Sign up for YA Book Bundles to receive a special box with snacks, goodies, and two library books curated especially for you! Scan the QR code to fill out our online request form.

ADULT BOOK BUNDLES

If you love reading but you’re not sure what to read next, sign up to receive a book bundle from our team of librarians. Bundles include two surprise library books, cozy beverages, and snacks. Scan the QR code or visit the Front Desk to fill out a form with your literary likes and interests. Your book bundle will be ready in two business days. Happy reading!

COMMUNITY EVENTS

FAIRFIELD

PUBLIC SCHOOLS ART SHOW

May 15-30: AP Art Exhibition

May 24-30: Elementary/Middle School Exhibition

Wednesday, May 29: Reception

5:00 – 8:00 p.m. | In person | For all ages

Pequot Library is pleased to host Fairfield Public Schools’ Townwide Art Show once again this year. We’ll display the Advanced Placement (AP) exhibition from Fairfield Ludlowe and Fairfield Warde high schools in the Perkin Gallery and art from Fairfield’s three middle schools and 11 elementary schools in the auditorium and Reading Room during normal library hours.

SCHUBERT CLUB: PIANO ENSEMBLE

Saturday, May 18

2:00 p.m. | In person | For all ages

Enjoy a varied program of piano ensemble music. The piano ensemble group is one of the many musical arms of the Schubert Club of Fairfield County. It is made up of ensemble teams: duet, duo, and sometimes even eight hands at two pianos.

SOUTHPORT

STREET PARADE & BLESSING OF THE FLEET

Saturday, June 8

11:00 a.m. | In person | For all ages

Celebrate summer in Southport and join Pequot Library and other area friends and neighbors for the cherished annual Blessing of the Fleet parade, featuring music, floats, and plenty of community spirit.

MISS SUSAN’S SUMMER SUPPER AND CAMPOUT

Friday, June 14 (Rain date: Saturday, June 15) 6:00 p.m. | In person | For all ages

Join in a favorite family event—a tribute to beloved Children’s Librarian Susan Ei on Pequot Library’s one-ofa-kind Great Lawn! Enjoy live music with the Merwin Mountain Band. Play lawn games, roast s’mores, and explore the night sky through our telescope. Come for any part of the evening, or pitch your tent and camp all night. Remember to bring a pillow for the Big Pillow Fight! This event kicks off our Read. Renew. Repeat. summer programs at Pequot Library (see pages 16-17).

4TH OF JULY BIKE PARADE

Thursday, July 4 10:00 a.m. | In person | For all ages

Celebrate the founding of our nation with the annual Pequot Library 4th of July Bike Parade! Bring your festively decorated bike, scooter, or wagon to Five Corners in Southport Village and parade to the Great Lawn for some fun and games: face-painting, sack races, hula hoop contest, and crafts. Enjoy free Super Duper Weenie hot dogs; ice cream and drinks will be available. This event is part of Pequot Library’s Read. Renew. Repeat. summer programs (see pages 16-17). Take a picture of your decorated bike at the parade and bring it to the circulation desk for a stamp on your card.

YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMS

ACTIVITIES

CHESS CLUB

Weekly on Fridays

4:30 p.m. | In person | For grades 2-6

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

A weekly meetup for kids who already know how to play chess and are looking for opponents. Players will compete for the top position on the club’s chess ladder—a leaderboard that will carry over from session to session.

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD

Wednesdays: May 1, June 5, July 3, August 7 4:00 p.m. | In person | For grades 6-12

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Teen Advisory Board (TAB) meets monthly to help plan programs, give input on the Young Adult collection, and influence how the library serves teens. TAB members also assist with Pequot Library events and help with other library tasks as needed. Earn community service hours for attending meetings, staffing events, and helping out around the library. Snacks are included!

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS

Mondays: May 6, 13, 20, 27; June 3, 10 4:00 p.m. | In person | For grades 6-12

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED | SIGN UP ONCE FOR ALL SIX SESSIONS

Calling all adventurers! Whether you have played before or have always wanted to try, grab your dice and pencils and join Pequot Library’s summer Dungeons & Dragons campaign.

HELP PLANT A POLLINATOR GARDEN AT PEQUOT LIBRARY!

Mondays: June 17, 24; July 1, 8, 15 3:30 p.m. | In person | For ages 8+

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

In partnership with Aspetuck Land Trust, children and teens in this weekly program will learn about every aspect of installing a native pollinator garden—from soil testing and choosing plants to seed starting, planting, watering, and making signs—as they help create Pequot Library’s new native pollinator garden. Participants will also learn about why this work is so important to insects and the food web as a whole. This program will cover a new topic and activity each week.

CHILDREN & FAMILY PROGRAMS

STORYTIMES

DROP-IN STORYTIME

Tuesdays: May 7, 14, 21, 28

10:30 a.m. | In person | For ages 3+

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Join us in the Children’s Library for a story or two, and then pick out books to take home!

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT FOR WIGGLERS

Wednesdays: May 8, 22; June 5, 26

10:30 a.m. | In person | For ages 0-5

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Can’t sit still? This is the program for you! Jump, hop, dance, and wiggle to the music.

BABES ON A BLANKET

Thursdays: May 9, 16, 23, 30; June 20, 27; July 11, 18, 25

11:15 a.m. | In person | For ages 0-12 months

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Engage your little one with 20 minutes of stories, rhymes, and songs and 25 minutes of free play and socializing. Infants and their caregivers are welcome.

SENSORY STORYTIME

Wednesdays: May 15, June 12

9:30 a.m. (Pequot Library opens early for this program) | In person | For ages 0-5

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Join us for Sensory Storytime scheduled before the library opens. Engage preschoolers by using sight, sound, and touch, along with traditional storytime elements, for a fun and memorable experience. Space is limited, so register early.

TALE AND A TRAIL

Tuesdays: June 18, 25; July 2, 9, 16, 23

10:30 a.m. | In person | For ages 3-5 (siblings welcome)

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Join us at Southport Park for a summer tale and a nature walk. Wear comfortable shoes. Weather permitting.

All programs are free and open to the public unless otherwise specified. Only programs scheduled between June 14 and July 31 are eligible for stamps on the Summer Programs Attendee Card. See page 16 for more details on Summer Programs at Pequot Library.

CHILDREN & FAMILY PROGRAMS

ACTIVITIES

READING AND RHYTHM WITH ORCHESTRA LUMOS

Saturday, May 11

1:00 p.m. | In person | For children and families

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Reading and Rhythm is a pre-K concert focusing on developing literacy and reading skills through music. This interactive program will have performers from the orchestra alongside teaching artists from Music Together of Fairfield County.

SHAKESPEARE FOR KIDS

Tuesday, June 4 4:30 p.m. | In person | For ages 6-16

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Enjoy a kid-friendly, interactive version of Romeo & Juliet performed by Shakespeare on the Sound’s Apprentice Company. Kids will be introduced to the characters and plot in advance of the full production in Rowayton’s Pinkney Park.

AUDUBON’S POLLINATORS SCAVENGER HUNT

Monday, June 17 – Saturday, July 27

Ongoing | For children and teens of all ages

Each week during the Read. Renew. Repeat. program, Pequot Library’s Audubon folio will be turned to a page that features a butterfly or a moth. A picture of that pollinator will also be hidden somewhere outside on the Great Lawn. Children who find the picture and tell us where it is will earn one stamp for their Summer Programs Attendee Cards. With a new pollinator featured every Monday, kids can come back each week for a new hunt and another chance to earn a stamp!

GREAT LAWN BIRDWATCHING

Wednesday, June 26 3:30 p.m. | In person | For children, teens, and families

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Do you know which birds visit Pequot Library? Come find out! Learn to identify birds by sight and by sound in this outdoor program on the Great Lawn. We’ll provide binoculars.

unless otherwise specified.

MEET THE AUTHOR JR.

OFF-SITE ACTIVITIES

SHAKESPEARE ON THE SOUND:

ROMEO & JULIET IN ROWAYTON’S PINKNEY PARK

Tuesday, June 18

7:30 p.m. performance | In person | For all ages

ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Pequot Library patrons can register for reserved premier grass seating for Shakespeare on the Sound’s full production of Romeo & Juliet in Rowayton’s Pinkney Park. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Arrive early and bring a picnic supper. There is a 6:30 p.m. pre-performance for children. Admission is free; donations to Shakespeare on the Sound at the door are appreciated.

VICTORIA KANN

Saturday, August 3

3:00 p.m. | In person | For ages 3-8

ONLINE REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED

Meet Victoria Kann, the awardwinning illustrator and author of the Pinkalicious series, when she visits Pequot Library to read Pinkalicious and the Little Butterfly to celebrate the end of the Read. Renew. Repeat. summer programs and Pequot Library’s new pollinator garden! A book signing will follow. Remember to wear pink!

Kann co-authored and illustrated her first two books, Pinkalicious and Purplicious, and she wrote and illustrated Goldilicious, Silverlicious, Emeraldalicious , Aqualicious , Peterrific, and many more books in the Pinkalicious and Peteriffic series.

FEATURED BOOKS: STAFF PICKS!

FOR ADULTS FOR ADULTS FOR YOUNG ADULTS FOR CHILDREN

The Guns of August

Barbara Tuchman

Published 1962

In this gripping account of the first month of World War I, readers are taken from the palace chambers of Russia and the Parliament halls of Westminster to the gory battlefields of Tannenberg and Alsace. For any armchair historian fascinated in asking “why” momentous historical events occur, look no further than Tuchman’s magnificent magnum opus.

Charlie McMahon

Adult Public Programs Manager

People of the Book

Geraldine Brooks

Published 2008

In this moving book by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author, a rare book expert discovers tiny, breathtaking artifacts in the ancient binding of a beautifully illuminated Hebrew manuscript: a butterfly wing fragment, wine stains, salt crystals, and a white hair, all of which will help her to unlock the book’s deep mysteries.

Life As We Knew It

Susan Beth Pfeffer

Published 2006

When an asteroid hits the moon and knocks it closer into Earth’s orbit, 16-yearold Miranda’s life (and the entire planet) is thrown into chaos. From tsunamis to volcanic ash blotting out the sun, life will never be the same. Life As We Knew It is a gripping read that emphasizes survival, even when all hope seems lost.

Recommended for ages 12+

Princess McCann

Special Collections Assistant

Tierney Latham

Library Services

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse

Kevin Henkes

Published 1996

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse delivers a fast-paced romp that moves from delight to disappointment to anger to understanding to forgiveness and reconciliation. It’s a masterpiece neatly packaged in 30 pages.

Recommended for ages 3-5

Leslie Mahtani

Library Services

PEQUOT LIBRARY SPOTLIGHT

CHARTING YOUR COURSE EXHIBITION OPENING

MEET THE AUTHOR: MELISSA NEWMAN

CALENDAR

AT A GLANCE

MAY

Author Talk: Douglas Brunt

3:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

Teen Advisory Board

4:00 p.m. | In person (p. 20)

Flashlight Constellations

4:30 p.m. | In person (p. 10)

Meet the Author: André Aciman

6:00 p.m. | In person (p.

Building and History Tour

10:00 a.m. | In person (p. 8)

Schubert Club: Piano Ensemble

2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 18)

Author Talk: Rebecca F. Kuang 7:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

Meet the Author: Stephen Panus

6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 4)

Pequot Library Closed Memorial Day Weekend (p. 2)

Fairfield Public Schools Art

with Orchestra Lumos 1:00 p.m. | In person (p. 22)

Learn the Ropes! 2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 10)

Sensory Storytime 9:30 a.m. | In person (p. 21)

Meet the Author: Margie Smith Holt 6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 4)

Merchant Ivory Film Series

Remains of the Day 2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 8)

Shakespeare for Kids

4:30 p.m. | In person (p. 22)

Teen Advisory Board

4:00 p.m. | In person (p. 20)

Southport Garden Stroll: Cocktail Kickoff Party

6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 7)

Southport Garden Stroll: Coffee and Conversation 8:30 a.m. | In person (p. 7)

Southport Garden Stroll: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. or 1:00–4:00 p.m. | In person (p. 7)

Southport Garden Stroll: Closing Party 3:30 p.m. | In person (p. 7)

Blessing of the Fleet 11:00 a.m. | In person (p. 18)

Merchant Ivory Film Series

Maurice 2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 8)

Sensory Storytime 9:30 a.m. | In person (p. 21)

Author Talk: Freida McFadden 8:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

Miss Susan’s Summer Supper

6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 19)

Merchant Ivory Film Series

Howard’s End 2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 8)

Shakespeare on the Sound

Romeo and Juliet

7:30 p.m. | Pinkney Park (p. 23)

Pequot Library Closed Juneteenth (p. 2)

Waste Not Opening Reception

6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 12)

House History Workshop

11:00 a.m. | In person (p. 8)

Chamber Music Series

Elm City Consort

6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 9)

Historic Southport Walking Tour

10:00 a.m. | In person (p. 9)

Merchant Ivory Film Series

The Bostonians

2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 8)

Great Lawn Birdwatching

3:30 p.m. | In person (p. 22)

Chamber Music Series

Joe Jones

6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 9) 20 21 21

JULY

Merchant Ivory Film Series

Heat and Dust

2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 8)

Teen Advisory Board

4:00 p.m. | In person (p. 20)

Pequot Library Closed Independence Day (p. 2)

4th of July Bike Parade

10:00 a.m. | In person (p. 19)

Merchant Ivory Film Series

Mr. & Mrs. Bridge

2:00 p.m. | In person (p. 8)

Author Talk: Kate DiCamillo

2:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

Make Your Own Recycled Paper

3:30 p.m. | In person (p. 13)

Historic Preservation Panel

5:00 p.m. | In person (p. 9)

Chamber Music Series

Piffaro

6:00 p.m. | In person (p. 9)

Author Talk: Max Brallier

2:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

Flower Pressing Workshop

3:30 p.m. | In person (p. 13)

Historic Southport Walking Tour

10:00 a.m. | In person (p. 9)

Author Talk: Elizabeth Acevedo

2:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

Summer Book Sale

Hours vary | In person (p. 6-7)

Author Talk: Dan Santat

2:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

AUGUST

Meet the Author Jr.: Victoria Kann

3:00 p.m. | In person (p. 23)

Teen Advisory Board

4:00 p.m. | In person (p. 20)

Historic Southport Walking Tour

10:00 a.m. | In person (p. 9)

Author Talk: Shelby van Pelt

7:00 p.m. | Online (p. 5)

Pequot Library Closed Labor Day Weekend (p. 2)

SERIES & ONGOING PROGRAMS

Audubon’s Pollinator Scavenger Hunt Monday, June 17 – Saturday, July 27 (p. 22)

Babes on a Blanket

Thursdays: May 9-30; June 20-27; July 11-25

11:15am | In person (p. 21)

Chess Club Weekly on Fridays

4:30 p.m. | In person (p. 20)

Drop-in Storytime

Tuesdays: May 7-28

10:30 a.m. | In person (p. 21)

Dungeons & Dragons

Mondays: May 6 – June 10

4:00 p.m. | In person (p. 20)

Help Plant a Pollinator Garden

Mondays: June 17 – July 15 (p. 20)

Music and Movement for Wigglers

Wednesdays: May 8, 22; June 5, 26

10:30 a.m. | In person (p. 21)

Summer Reading for Adults

Friday, June 14 –Saturday, August 24 (p. 17)

Summer Programs for Children and Teens

Friday, June 14 – Wednesday, July 31 (p. 16)

Tale and a Trail

Tuesdays: June 18 – July 23

10:30 a.m. | In person (p. 21)

EXHIBITIONS

Charting Your Course: Cutting-Edge

Navigation and Seafaring

On view through May 11 (p. 10)

Fairfield Public Schools

AP Art Exhibition

On view May 15-30 (p. 18)

Fairfield Public Schools

Townwide Exhibition

On view May 24-30 (p. 18)

Waste Not: Preservation at Play

On view June 20 – September 21 (p. 12)

All programs are free and open to the public unless otherwise specified.