July 2, 2009

FAMILY PROGRAM: Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire

harrypotter4-100.jpgThursday, July 2
6:00 pm
McManus Room

HARRY POTTER MOVIE SERIES! Thursdays, June 11-July 9
The fourth in the series! The Goblet of Fire (157 mins)

Library catalog.

July 7, 2009

TRENDS in TECHNOLOGY:
The BlackBerry App World

Sascha-Segan.jpgTuesday, July 7
7:30 pm
McManus Room

BlackBerry smart phones are the #1 smart phone line in the US, and they recently opened up their “App World” - BlackBerry’s answer to Apple’s super-successful App Store. Let PCMag.com’s cell phone expert Sascha Segan guide you through the best ways to make your BlackBerry more entertaining, useful and fun. He’ll try to field all your other cell phone questions, too!

Sascha Segan is the lead analyst for mobile devices for the PCMag Digital Network. He’s reviewed hundreds of mobile phones over the past five years. He also speaks on radio, television and the Internet about mobile technology issues and won awards in 2007 and 2008 for his columns on mobile tech. He lives in Queens, NY.

Items in the Library catalog on BlackBerries.

July 8, 2009

JOBSEEKER SPECIAL: Phone Interviewing Tips from an Expert

phone-interview.jpgWednesday, July 8
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Looking for a new job? Your phone interviewing skills could be the deciding factor in getting a live interview! Paul Bailo, founder and CEO of Phone Interview Pro, will talk about the importance of the telephone interview for job candidates making an initial contact with prospective employers.

Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

July 9, 2009

FAMILY PROGRAM: Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix

harrypotter5-100.jpgThursday, July 9
6:00 pm
McManus Room

HARRY POTTER MOVIE SERIES! Thursdays, June 11-July 9
The fifth in the series! The Order of the Phoenix (138 mins)

Library catalog.

July 11, 2009

TRENDS in TECHNOLOGY: Ebay for Beginners

ebay.jpgSaturday, July 11
10:00-11:30 am
McManus Room

It's a familiar name. So, what is eBay? Learn how to buy and sell items, pay with PayPal and market items for sale.

Items in the Library catalog on Ebay.

FAMILY PROGRAM: Be Creative @ Your Library with Leonardo

leonardo2.jpgSaturday, July 11
2:30 to 3:30 pm
McManus Room

Kids help create this show with props, costumes and dance steps when Leonardo gives an interactive music concert.

Free tickets available in the Children’s Library beginning at
9:00 am on the day of each performance—space is limited.

Children's Library.

July 12, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Sempster’s Tale

the-sempster-paperback.jpgSunday, July 12
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Sempster’s Tale by Margaret Frazer. Dame Frevisse, a Benedictine nun, seeks to recover the gold of a murdered Duke, aided by a seamstress and her Jewish lover. Their mission is jeopardized when a crucified body stirs up anti-Semitic sentiment.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
Author's website.

Library catalog.

July 13, 2009

Dog Days of Summer: Marley & Me

MM_TeaserPoster.jpgMonday, July 13
1:00 pm
McManus Room

Based on the hit memoir by John Grogan, Marley & Me chronicles the relationship of John (Owen Wilson) and Jen (Jennifer Aniston) as they face the challenges of marriage, work and starting a family. By their side is their beloved dog, Marley, who can chew through drywall and got kicked out of obedience school. Although some may see Marley as the "world's worst dog," he proves to be the couple's most faithful friend. (120 minutes)

This is the first in the Dog Days of Summer. Check out the other programs on Tuesday, July 21, Thursday, July 23, Tuesday, July 28, Thursday, July 30, and Monday, August 3!

Library catalog.

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: David Grann

The-Lost-City-of-Z.jpg Monday, July 13
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Westport native, New Yorker staff writer and debut author David Grann will discuss his book The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon, soon to be a major motion picture starring Brad Pitt. Grann brings to life the remarkable story of British explorer Percy Fawcett and his fateful 1925 quest for the Lost City of Z, the famed El Dorado, in the impenetrable jungle canopy of the Amazon.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Library catalog.

July 18, 2009

Friends of the Library: Annual Gigantic Summer Book Sale

booksaletent-120px.jpg

Saturday, July 18
9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Look for the big white tents on Jesup Green for the sale where you will find everything from hardcover books to paper backs to videos to audio-books— for all ages!

Interested in donating books? All book donations are welcomed anytime prior to the sale, but the sooner the better. Bring books to the Library circulation desk. And don’t forget, we need a lot of volunteers! Go to the website for more information or contact Suzy Hooper.

July 19, 2009

Friends of the Library: Annual Gigantic Summer Book Sale

booksaletent-120px.jpg

Sunday, July 19
9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Look for the big white tents on Jesup Green for the sale where you will find everything from hardcover books to paper backs to videos to audio-books—for all ages!

Interested in donating books? All book donations are welcomed anytime prior to the sale, but the sooner the better. Bring books to the Library circulation desk. And don’t forget, we need a lot of volunteers! Go to the website for more information or contact Suzy Hooper.

July 20, 2009

Friends of the Library: Annual Gigantic Summer Book Sale

booksaletent-120px.jpg

Monday, July 20
9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Everything 1/2 price!

Look for the big white tents on Jesup Green for the sale where you will find everything from hardcover books to paper backs to videos to audio-books—for all ages!

Interested in donating books? All book donations are welcomed anytime prior to the sale, but the sooner the better. Bring books to the Library circulation desk. And don’t forget, we need a lot of volunteers! Go to the website for more information or contact Suzy Hooper.

July 21, 2009

Friends of the Library: Annual Gigantic Summer Book Sale

booksaletent-120px.jpg

Tuesday, July 21
9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Everything free! Donations welcome.

Look for the big white tents on Jesup Green for the sale where you will find everything from hardcover books to paper backs to videos to audio-books—for all ages!

Interested in donating books? All book donations are welcomed anytime prior to the sale, but the sooner the better. Bring books to the Library circulation desk. And don’t forget, we need a lot of volunteers! Go to the website for more information or contact Suzy Hooper.

Pageturners:
The Art of Racing in the Rain

theartofracingintherain.jpgTuesday, July 21
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

As a part of the Dog Days of Summer events, discussion of the book The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. 336 pages. A story about life, written from a dog's perspective. It is about the hard times and the good; it will make you cry and laugh. The actions and reactions that occur become clear and the emotions run heavy at times. Racing in the rain becomes an aspect of life and coping with the setbacks and joys of living.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. . New participants always welcome.

This is the second in in the Dog Days of Summer. Check out the other programs on Thursday, July 23, Tuesday, July 28, Thursday, July 30, and Monday, August 3!

Library catalog.

July 22, 2009

Jobseekers Resource Seminar

jobseekers.jpgWednesday, July 22
10:00 am
McManus Room

Learn about the excellent Library resources that will make you an informed job seeker and find out about the wide array of free services available to you at the CT Dept. of Labor.

For more information, e-mail ref@westportlibrary.org or call 203-291-4800.
Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

Teen Program: Animé Night

anime-4.jpgWednesday, July 22
6:00 pm
McManus Room
Ages 12 and up

Join the Westport Library for a night of animé and meet others who share your passion! Japanese refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact Jaina Lewis at 291-4809 or jlewis@westportlibrary.org.

Items in the Library catalog on animé.

July 23, 2009

Sizzling Summer Film Series:
Mrs. Henderson Presents

mrs_henderson_presents.jpgThursday, July 23
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy summer Thursdays with a cool drink, a short introduction and a film. Mrs. Henderson Presents is the story of a British widow who buys an abandoned theatre in 1942 and keeps it running throughout the blitz in a very unusual way. Starring Judi Dench and Bob Hoskins at the top of their remarkable careers, it’s hilarious at times, bitter-sweet at others, and not to be missed. 2005. 103 minutes.

Library catalog.

Dog Days of Summer: Sheltering Pets

pet-disaster-pic.jpgThursday, July 23
7:00 pm
McManus Room

What options are available for sheltering your pet during a disaster? Dr. Veronica Rynn will discuss the critical points on how to prepare checklist and make plans to keep everyone safe.

This is the third in in the Dog Days of Summer. Check out the other programs on Tuesday, July 28, Thursday, July 30, and Monday, August 3!

July 27, 2009

Jane Austen and the Craft of Mystery

Jane-Cleland-crop.jpgpeggy-erhardt.jpgMonday, July 27
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Jane Austen’s Emma has been described as a traditional mystery with no murder. The term traditional is code in the world of mysteries. It informs and reassures readers about what to expect of this sub-genre—it implies certain qualities relating to the structure, characters, pacing, plot, and resolution.

Mystery authors, Jane K. Cleland and Margaret J. Ehrhart, will discuss the components of a “traditional” mystery, Jane Austen’s mastery of clues, red herrings, and suspense techniques, and how and why the mystery in Emma succeeds.

Items in the Library catalog on Jane Austen.

July 28, 2009

Dog Days of Summer: So You Want to Get a Dog?

pets4.jpgTuesday, July 28
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Weston veterinarian Dr. Chuck Noonan will talk about how to choose the right pet for your family. Learn about things to consider, the many choices available and how to decide what is right for you.

This is the fourth in in the Dog Days of Summer. Check out the other programs on Thursday, July 30, and Monday, August 3!

July 30, 2009

Sizzling Summer Film Series:
Big Night

the_big_night.jpgThursday, July 30
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy summer Thursdays with a cool drink, a short introduction and a film. Set in the Italian district of Manhattan during the 1950s, Big Night tells the story of two brothers who try to keep their restaurant going against the onslaught of fast food and has a stellar cast: Stanley Tucci, Tony Shalhoub, Alison Janney, Isabella Rossellini, Liev Schreiber and Ian Holm. Roger Ebert said it was “one of the great food films, plus so much more.” 1996. 107 minutes.

Dog Days of Summer: What Dogs Do...or Don't

puppylogo.jpgThursday, July 30
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Dog trainer and behavior therapist Jody Rosengarten will discuss tips and tricks on training your dog. Learn how to tap into our four-legged friends' perspective to present new, more realistic approaches to dog training with amazing results.

This is the fifth in in the Dog Days of Summer. Check out the last one Monday, August 3!

August 1, 2009

Great Hall Art Exhibit: Frank Bolle

BOLLE-THREE-BARNS-WATERCOLO.jpgAugust 1-September 30
The Great Hall

"The Art World of Frank Bolle," an exhibit for the months of August and September of watercolors by Frank Bolle.

Opening reception: Friday, August 7, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.
Light refreshments served. Enter through the main level Library entrance.

FAMILY PROGRAM:
Howl at the Moon...with a Wild Thing Tune

tom-sieling.jpgSaturday August 1
2:30 to 3:30 pm
McManus Room

Singer-songwriter Tom Sieling will perform a participatory family program about thenatural world.

Free tickets available in the Children’s Library beginning at
9:00 am on the day of each performance—space is limited.

Children's Library.

August 3, 2009

Dog Days of Summer: How Guide Dogs Work

guiding-eyes-dog.jpgMonday, August 3
7:00 pm
McManus Room

For the last in the Dog Days of Summer series, Cora Martin, a volunteer puppy raiser for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, will talk about the process of raising these puppies with the love, socialization and basic obedience it will need to succeed in guide dog training. These dogs go on to enrich the lives of blind and visually impaired men and women.

Teen Flix: Dark Knight

teenflix%20copy.jpgMonday, August 3
8:30 pm
The Levitt Pavilion

Come and enjoy the great outdoors at the annual outdoor movie series at the Levitt Pavilion! In Oscar-winning Dark Knight, Batman (Christian Bale), Gordon and Harvey Dent are forced to deal with the chaos unleashed by an anarchist mastermind known only as the Joker (Heath Ledger), as it drives each of them to their limits. (152 minutes)

Co-sponsored by the Westport Public Library, Westport Youth Commission and Toquet Hall. All evenings begin with a special short clip from the Westport Youth Film Festival.

August 6, 2009

Sizzling Summer Film Series:
The Day of the Jackal

the-day-of-the-jackal2.jpgThursday, August 6
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy summer Thursdays with a cool drink, a short introduction and a film. In The Day of the Jackal, an assassin of uncommon intelligence, nerve and charm is followed as he attempts to target President Charles De Gaulle in the Paris of 1962. Roger Ebert calls it “one hell of an exciting movie, put together like a fine watch.” Directed by Fred Zinneman, High Noon, it’s a thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat and stars Edward Fox. This 1973 version is not to be confused with the far more violent 1997 remake. 1973. 143 minutes.

August 7, 2009

Opening Reception for the Great Hall Art Exhibit of Watercolors by Frank Bolle

Bolle--GOLDEN-RETRIEVER-BIL.jpgFriday, August 7
6:00 to 7:00 pm
The Great Hall

Opening reception for the exhibit "The Art World of Frank Bolle." These watercolors by Frank Bolle will be on display for the months of August and September.

Light refreshments served.
Enter through the upper level Library entrance
.

August 10, 2009

Teen Flix: Slumdog Millionaire

teenflix%20copy.jpgMonday, August 10
8:30 pm
The Levitt Pavilion

Come and enjoy the great outdoors at the annual outdoor movie series at the Levitt Pavilion! Winner of multiple Oscars, Slumdog Millionaire tells the story of a Mumbai teen who grew up in the slums and becomes a contestant on the Indian version of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" He is arrested under suspicion of cheating. How could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show¹s questions.(120 minutes)

Co-sponsored by the Westport Public Library, Westport Youth Commission and Toquet Hall. All evenings begin with a special short clip from the Westport Youth Film Festival.

August 11, 2009

Jobseekers Resource Seminar

jobseekers.jpgTuesday, August 11
10:00 am
McManus Room

Learn about the excellent Library resources that will make you an informed job seeker.

For more information, e-mail ref@westportlibrary.org or call 203-291-4800.
Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

Teen Gaming

wii.jpgTuesday, August 11
2:00 to 4:00 pm
McManus Room
Ages 12 and up

Practice for the Wii Tournament on August 18.

MovieLine: The Soloist

soloist.jpgTuesday, August 11
7:00 pm
McManus Room

Based on the book of the same name, The Soloist tells the true story of musical prodigy Nathaniel Ayers (Jamie Foxx), who dropped out of Julliard after developing schizophrenia and became a homeless musician on the streets of Los Angeles. A disenchanted journalist (Robert Downey Jr.) sees the bedraggled Ayers one day and an unexpected quest begins. (109 mins.)

August 12, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Sarma Melngailis

living-raw-food.jpgWednesday, August 12
Noon
McManus Room

Author, chef and restaurant owner Sarma Melngailis will discuss her new book Living Raw Food: Get the Glow with More Recipes from Pure Food and Wine. With more than a hundred recipes using raw and organic ingredients, she shows how to create tasty, healthy food.

August 13, 2009

Sizzling Summer Film Series:
Cinema Paradiso

cinema-paradiso.jpgThursday, August 13
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy summer Thursdays with a cool drink, a short introduction and a film. Set in a small Italian village, Cinema Paradiso has been called a “celebration of youth, friendship and the everlasting magic of the movies.” You’ll find it on any list of the “100 Best Films of All Time”. This original theatre edition won the Academy Award for best Foreign Language Film. 1989. 123 minutes.

August 16, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Last King of Texas

the-last-king-of-texas.jpgSunday, August 16
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Last King of Texas by Rick Riordan. When a San Antonio professor is found shot to death, P.I. Tres Navarre, Ph.D., agrees to take his place. Police assure him they already have a suspect, and all Tres has to do is walk in the dead man's shoes.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
Author's website.

August 17, 2009

Teen Flix: Forrest Gump

teenflix%20copy.jpgMonday, August 17
8:30 pm
The Levitt Pavilion

Come and enjoy the great outdoors at the annual outdoor movie series at the Levitt Pavilion! Forrest Gump, a mulitiple Oscar-winning film starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright and Gary Sinese, tells the story of a man and his epic journey through life meeting historical figures, influencing popular culture and experiencing first-hand historic events of the late 20th century while being largely unaware of their significance, due to his borderline intelligence. (142 minutes)

Co-sponsored by the Westport Public Library, Westport Youth Commission and Toquet Hall. All evenings begin with a special short clip from the Westport Youth Film Festival.

August 18, 2009

Teen Gaming Tournament

wii.jpgTuesday, August 18
2:00 to 4:00 pm
McManus Room
Ages 12 and up

Compete for prizes in the Library’s Second Annual Summer Gaming Tournament! Contact Jaina Lewis at 291-4809 or jlewis@westportlibrary.org for more information.

Pageturners:
The Good Thief/An Novel

the-Good-Thief.jpgTuesday, August 18
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Good Thief/An Novel by Hannah Tinti. 327 pages. An orphan named Ren, raised by monks is adopted by a stranger who seems to know something about Ren's past. Ren is so likable and earnest that you can't help but hope his story ends well. The main themes are family, secrets, and what constitutes as "goodness" or right; also about friendship and growing up. Great historical fiction and adventure.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

August 20, 2009

Sizzling Summer Film Series:
The Straight Story

the-straight-story.jpgThursday, August 20
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Enjoy summer Thursdays with a cool drink, a short introduction and a film. Starrng Richard Farnsworth (History Boys) and Sissy Spacek, The Straight Story tells the true story of an elderly man who drives 300 miles through the Midwest to see his estranged and dying brother. Directed by David Lynch, it’s the antithesis of his usual bizarre films as Farnsworth's character unfolds and he meets a variety of Americans along the way, “treasures”, as Roger Ebert calls them. 1999. 111 minutes.

August 24, 2009

Teen Flix: Zoolander

teenflix%20copy.jpgMonday, August 24
8:30 pm
The Levitt Pavilion

Come and enjoy the great outdoors at the annual outdoor movie series at the Levitt Pavilion! Starring Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson, Zoolander becomes an unwitting pawn in a international assassination plot as he searches for meaning in his life at the end of his fashion-modeling career. (89 minutes)

Co-sponsored by the Westport Public Library, Westport Youth Commission and Toquet Hall. All evenings begin with a special short clip from the Westport Youth Film Festival.

August 28, 2009

Around the Library in 80 Minutes—The Library Great Race

library--great-race-copy.jpgFriday, August 28
6:00 pm
Library Main Lobby

Find your team racing through the Library from clue to clue, while you discover treasures in the nooks and crannies that you've never ventured into before. The Friends of the Library invite you to sign up for this first-time, unique event. Watch your email and the Library website for the exciting details.

August 31, 2009

Teen Flix: Ferris Bueller

teenflix%20copy.jpgMonday, August 31
8:30 pm
The Levitt Pavilion

Come and enjoy the great outdoors at the annual outdoor movie series at the Levitt Pavilion! Matthew Broderick plays Ferris Bueller, a high school wise guy determined to have a day off from school, despite of what the principal thinks. (103 minutes)

Co-sponsored by the Westport Public Library, Westport Youth Commission and Toquet Hall. All evenings begin with a special short clip from the Westport Youth Film Festival.

September 3, 2009

MovieLine: Sunshine Cleaning

sunshine_cleaning.jpgThursday, September 3
7:00 pm
McManus Room

A single mom (Amy Adams) and her slacker sister (Emily Blunt), find an unexpected way to turn their life around in the offbeat dramatic comedy Sunshine Cleaning. (91 mins)

September 10, 2009

Jobseekers Resource Seminar

jobseekers.jpgThursday, September 10
10:00 am
McManus Room

Learn about the excellent Library resources that will make you an informed job seeker.

For more information, e-mail ref@westportlibrary.org or call 203-291-4800.
Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

September 13, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Long Goodbye

the-long-goodbye.jpgSunday, September 13
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Long Goodbye by Raymond Chandler. 1950's, LA: A down-on-his-luck war veteran fleeing the authorities asks Philip Marlowe for help, making the detective an accessory in his wife's murder in this classic noir mystery.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.

MUSIC @THE LIBRARY: Fair Winds Brass Quartet

FairWindsBrass_undertree.jpgSunday, September 13
2:00 pm
McManus Room

The Fair Winds Brass Quartet are versatile musicians who perfom many styles of music including Baroque, Classical, and Jazz. The group is composed of: Patricia Hurley on trumpet (degees from Cornell, Eastman and UConn and many years of professional experience as a principal, section, and chamber musician), Dr. Marjorie Seymour Callaghan on horn (Associate Professor of Music at Western Connecticut State University), Frank Tamburro on trumpet (degrees from the Eastman School of Music and Principal Trumpet of the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra), and Nicole Hansboro on trombone (degrees in Music Education from the UConn and in trombone perfomance from the New England Conservatory of Music and general music teacher at Jefferson Science Magnet School in Norwalk).

Supported by the Grace K. Salmon Foundation.

September 15, 2009

JOBSEEKER SPECIAL: Social Media Networking for the Job Seeker

HireEffect_LogoJPEG_8554652_std.jpgTuesday, September 15
10:00 am
McManus Room

Jennifer Scott, founder of HireEffect will show how position yourself and your business using tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.

Items in the Library catalog on social networking.

Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

Pageturners: The Professor's House

The-Professor's-House.jpgTuesday, September 15
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Professor's House by Willa Cather. 258 pages. On the eve of his move to a new, more desirable residence, Professor Godfrey St Peter finds himself in the shabby study of his former home. Surrounded by the comforting, familiar sights of his past, he surveys his life and the people he has loved--his wife Lillian, his daughters, and Tom Outland, his most outstanding student and once, his son-in-law to be. Enigmatic and courageous--and a tragic victim of the Great War--Tom has remained a source of inspiration to the professor. But he has also left behind him a troubling legacy which has brought betrayal and fracture to the women he loves most.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

September 16, 2009

Odyssey of the Mind

logo3.jpgWednesday, September 16
9:30 AM
McManus Room

Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. Team members apply their creativity to solve problems that range from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. Brian Wagar, Director of the Connecticut Odyssey of the Mind chapter, will present this informational program.

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Lev Grossman

The-Magicians.jpgWednesday, September 16
Noon
McManus Room

Lev Grossman, senior writer and the book critic for Time magazine and the author of the bestselling novel Codex, will speak about his new book The Magicians: A Novel, a thrilling and original coming-of-age novel about a young man practicing magic in the real world.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

September 22, 2009

Jobseeker Special: Where are all the jobs?

jobseekers.jpgTuesday, September 22
9:30 am
McManus Room

Connecticut Department of Labor Career Specialist Michael Shavel will speak about local labor market information to assist jobseekers in career planning and decision making. Advance registration is requested. Contact Sylvia Schulman at 203-291-4844 or sschulman@westportlibrary.org. Participants will be asked to register with the Department of Labor to receive this and other free jobseeker services.

Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

COMMUNITY CONVERSATION:
Are You Ready for Life (Part2)

robert-Lipsyte-credit-Sandy.jpgTuesday, September 22
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Robert Lipsyte is the host of Life (Part 2), an innovative PBS series that offers insight and depth on the art and science of aging along with healthy doses of irreverence and humor. Lipsyte, an author, Emmy-award winner, former sports and city columnist for the New York Times and correspondent for CBS Sunday Morning with Charles Kuralt and NBC Nightly News, will give a fresh take on the physical, mental and emotional issues of the boomer generation.

Community Conversations are sponsored by The Smilow Family.

September 23, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Laura Shapiro

Julia-Child.cover.jpgWednesday, September 23
Noon
McManus Room

From the award-winning culinarian historian, Laura Shapiro, (Perfection Salad: Women and Cooking at the Turn of the Century and Something from the Oven:Reinventing Dinner in 1950s America) comes a refreshing look at one of the most beloved icons of American culture. Julia Child's life fascinates as her approach to cooking and recipes nourish and inspire.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

September 30, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Kate Walbert

short-history-cover.jpgWednesday, September 30
Noon
McManus Room

Kate Walbert, 2004 National Book Award finalist for Our Kind, will lead a discussion of her new book, A Short History of Women, which offers a profoundly moving portrayal of the complicated legacies of mothers and daughters. Covering historical events from the social upheaval of pre-WWI Britain to VJ day in New York City, a feminist conscious-raising in the '70s and the Internet age, the lives of these women are intricately and grippingly revealed. Kirkus reviews call it, “Daring and devastating—20th century history made personal.”

Books by Kate Walbert in the Library catalog.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

October 1, 2009

JOBSEEKER SPECIAL: The Elevator Speech

elevator.jpgThursday, October 1
7:30 pm
McManus Room

What's the difference between a sound bite, elevator speech, commercial and Infomerical …and when to use them. Ron Drew, an experienced presenter on jobseeker topics, will discuss various targeted ways to communicate information about yourself and your experience in the job search process.

Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

October 7, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Wendy Walker

Wendy-Walker.jpgWednesday, October 7
Noon
McManus Room

Step into picture-perfect Wilshire, Connecticut, home to some of the most privileged people in the world, where one woman’s desperate act could bring the precariously balanced social order crashing down. Local author Wendy Walker, former commercial litigator and investment banker who now works at home writing and raising her children, will discuss her exciting new book, Social Lives.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

October 13, 2009

Jobseekers Resource Seminar

jobseekers.jpgThursday, October 13
10:00 am
McManus Room

Learn about the excellent Library resources that will make you an informed job seeker.

For more information, e-mail ref@westportlibrary.org or call 203-291-4800.
Funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

October 18, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Devil in a Blue Dress

devil-in-a-blue-dress.jpgSunday, October 18
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of Devil in a Blue Dress by Walter Mosley. 1948, LA: Easy Rawlins is a black war veteran just fired from his job, wondering how he'll pay his mortgage, when a man offers him good money to locate a blonde beauty known to frequent black jazz clubs.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.

MUSIC @THE LIBRARY: Handler and Levesque

Handler.jpgSunday, October 18
2:00 pm
McManus Room

In an energetic program of music for guitar and mandolin, husband and wife duo Handler and Levesque blend Brazilian, Latin, gypsy, jazz, classical, and folk music influences to create unique, expressive arrangements. Handler and Levesque have performed over 1,000 concerts together throughout the U.S. Their CDs Passion, Acoustic Blend, and Two Guitars Live! have received critical acclaim and have been sold throughout the world.

Supported by the Grace K. Salmon Foundation.

October 19, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Louis Masur

Runaway-Dream.jpgMonday, October 19
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Author Louis P. Masur's new book Runaway Dream: Born to Run and Bruce Springsteen’s American Vision is a rich history of Springsteen’s greatest album, celebrating its themes of youth, escape, and possibility, just in time for the Boss’s sixtieth birthday. In addition to the story of the album itself, Masur masterfully places Born to Run within American cultural history, showing why the girls, hot rods, and Jersey nights of the album still resonate, even for listeners born years after its release. Masur is William R. Kenan Jr. Professor of American Institutions and Values at Trinity College in Hartford.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.


October 21, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Janis Abrahms Spring

Life-with-Pop.jpgWednesday, October 21
Noon
McManus Room

Westport author and clinical psychologist Janis Abrams Spring presents her honest portrayal of the daunting yet fulfilling task of caring for her aging father through his final years of life, chronicled in Life with Pop: Lessons on Caring for an Aging Parent.

Life with Pop is a remarkable book—wise, beautifully honest, humane, and resonantly uplifting. It transcends its subject because its compassionate view of life and death applies to any caring relationship, and also transcends its genre, since Janis Spring does not prescribe cookie-cutter rules but instead offers advice from the heart. This poignant and humorous blend of professional acuity combined with personal insight is universal in its appeal and its important message.”

-- Sybil Steinberg, former senior editor, Publisher’s Weekly

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

JOBSEEKER SPECIAL: Networking...Connecting People and Jobs

networking2.jpgWednesday, October 21
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Ian Kennedy of The Schegg Group will discuss how to develop your networking skills.

October 22, 2009

RABBIT HILL FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE

rabbithillbw.jpg
The next festival is scheduled for October 22, 23 & 24, 2009.

Click here for details.

October 25, 2009

Men of Mystery

peter-lovesey-170.jpgBenn_010cLR-sm.jpgSunday, October 25
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Action, adventure, and crime solving -- What more could you ask for? Two accomplished mystery writers join in a discussion with Joe Meyers of the Connecticut Post. Peter Lovesey is the award-winning author of over thirty-five crime novels, including the Peter Diamond series and the Sergeant Cribb mysteries. James R. Benn, a master blender of fact and fiction, writes the Billy Boyle mysteries, which are set during World War II.

October 26, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Joseph Califano

califano.jpgHow-to-Raise.jpgMonday, October 26
7:30 pm
Bedford Middle School auditorium

Joseph A. Califano, Jr., founder and chairman of The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University and former U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, will discuss his book How to Raise a Drug-Free Kid: The Straight Dope for Parents, a guide to help parents get their kids through the pre-teen, teen and college years drug free. Through its nine facets of parental engagement, learn proven, practical ways to constructively engage in the lives of their children and to use their "Parent Power" in order to be their child's strongest positive influence.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Directions to Bedford Middle School.

November 18, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: William Grimes

Appetite-City.jpgWednesday, November 18
Noon
McManus Room

In Appetite City: A Culinary History of New York , former New York Times restaurant critic Willaim Grimes offers a grand tour of the history of the city’s restaurants, exploring the ways in which sex and class determined where and how a person would eat, and how the city’s restaurant scene mirrored the larger social and political forces shaping New York. With dozens of irresistible characters and anecdotes, and a treasure trove of photographs, Grimes evokes both the belle epoque of Edith Wharton and the surging multicultural city of today.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

November 19, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: John Ortved

simpsons.jpgThursday, November 19
7:30 pm
McManus Room

John Ortved, a contributing editorial associate at Vanity Fair, takes you into the inner sanctum of The Simpsons: An Uncensored, Unauthorized History. Hear how the show (celebrating its 20th year) grew from a controversial cult favorite to a mainstream powerhouse thanks to a group of intense, thoughtful, and creative people who came together to make something unique in the history of American culture. Animators, writers, actors, directors, producers, executives and celebrity guest stars—as much a dysfunctional but loving family as the show’s stars themselves—are all here. It’s an intriguing yet hilarious tale full of betrayal, ambition, and love.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

November 22, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Murder on the Ballarat Train

murder-on-the-ballarat-trai.jpgSunday, November 22
2:00 pm
Seminar Room
Note: date change

Discussion of Murder on the Ballarat Train by Kerry Greenwood. 1920s' Australian lady detective Phryne Fisher travels to a popular resort by train. When some of the passengers are poisoned with chloroform, Phryne is left to piece together the clues.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
Author's website.

December 7, 2009

AUTHORS @THE LIBRARY: Nancy Goldstone

The-Lady-Queen.jpgMonday December 7
7:30 pm
McManus Room

Westport author Nancy Goldstone portrays the riveting history of a beautiful queen, a shocking murder, a papal trial—and a reign as triumphant as any in the Middle Ages in her new book, The Lady Queen: The Notorious Reign of Joanna I, Queen of Naples, Jerusalem, and Sicily. Publishers Weekly says, "On Goldstone's rich, beautifully woven tapestry, medieval Europe springs to vivid life. This is a fresh, eminently enjoyable history that gives women their due as movers and shakers in tumultuous times."

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

December 20, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: 4:50 from Paddington

4-50-from-Paddington.jpgSunday, December 20
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of 4:50 from Paddington by Agatha Christie. When Elspeth McGillicuddy witnesses what appears to be a woman being strangled on a train and no one believes her she turns to her old friend Jane Marple to help solve the puzzle.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
Agatha Christie website.

February 6, 2010

Westport Library Eleventh Annual Crossword Puzzle Contest

IMG_2475.JPG Save the Date:
Saturday, February 6, 2010

1:00 pm
McManus Room

2009 finalist Erhard Konerding, Will Shortz, finalist Alice Dutton, and grand prize winner, Joon Pahk.


YouTube video of the 2009 contest on the Library's YouTube website.