Calendar

Pick a pumpkin, eat a pumpkin, READ A BOOK (that's a totally made up chant! Try it out, it's really fun to say)! Did you know that you can make pie from pumpkins? They're delicious! We're having a pumpkin-y good time this Fall so join us for stories and a craft that's all about the pumpkin! Pick up supplies to create your very own pumpkin craft! (Limit 1 craft kit per household). Please note, there is one craft for the entire series and this is part 1 of the series, register for the second session on 10/12 here: https://russelllibrary.libcal.com/event/8097985 This virtual program is for children ages birth-6. Registration is required. We have a limited number of supply kits which will need to be picked up at the Russell Library prior to the online event. If you sign up for a kit after you register a librarian will email you to confirm your supply kits are ready for you at the desk! After you hear from us you can: Pick your kit up during library operating hours (Monday-Saturday: 9-5pm) or Call us at 860-347-2528 and set up a curbside appointment! Supplies for this virtual program were provided by the Friends of The Russell Library.

The Racial Justice Book Group is offered in partnership with the Middletown Racial Justice Community. The October title is Red At the Bone by Jaqueline Wilson. To receive a copy, please place a hold in our online catalog or by calling 860.347.2520. Registration is required for the Zoom link. Questions? Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org Sept Transcendent Kingdom Yaa Gyasi 9/14/2021 October Red At the Bone Jaqueline Woodson 10/5/2021 November Vanishing Half Brit Bennett 11/2/2021 December Luster Raven Leilani 12/7/2021 Questions? Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org

Join us for some fun outdoor activies celebrating Fall with Middletown Pride on the lawn of the Wadsworth Mansion! Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/middletown-pride-family-fun-day-tickets-172053134557 5:00 - 6:30pm : "Drag your Pumpkin" - Come and decorate a pumpkin like your favorite Drag performer or enter our contest with a design you bring from home! 5:00 - 5:30pm : Drag Queen Story Hour (Group 1) 5:30 - 6:00pm : Drag Queen Story Hour (Group 2) 6:30pm : "Drag your Pumpkin" judging - winner will receive a Middletown Pride Gift Card! Beginning at 6:30pm : Join us for two episodes of Scooby-Doo! For all ages! Due to Covid-19 restrictions and to ensure everyone's safety we request that all families follow our Outdoor event guidelines: We ask that you stay 6 feet away from other families for your safety, as well as the safety of others. If any member of your household is not feeling well, has a fever, or is quarantining, we ask that you and your family stay home. If you have any questions, please contact us at kidsdept@russelllibrary.org This program is sponsored by Middletown Pride! Directions: Here is a link to the Mansion in google maps: https://www.google.com/maps/place/The Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill/@41.5353091,-72.6782933,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89e64a9d38187887:0x1f4f8054726fc03f!8m2!3d41.5353209!4d-72.6761638 Here is a link to the trail map for Long Hill Estate: http://wadsworthmansion.1059creative.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/LongHillEstateTrailMap.pdf Drag Queen Story Hour (DQSH) is just what it sounds like—drag queens reading stories to children in libraries, schools, and bookstores. DQSH captures the imagination and play of the gender fluidity of childhood and gives kids glamorous, positive, and unabashedly queer role models. In spaces such as these, kids are able to see people who defy rigid gender restrictions and imagine a world where people can present as they wish, where dress up is real. DQSH was created by Michelle Tea and RADAR Productions in San Francisco. DQSH events occur regularly in SF, NY, and LA. For more information on DQSH, visit DragQueenStoryHour.org

The library is closed for the holiday.

Pick a pumpkin, eat a pumpkin, READ A BOOK (that's a totally made up chant! Try it out, it's really fun to say)! Did you know that you can make pie from pumpkins? It's my favorite kind! We're having a pumpkin-y good time this Fall so join us for stories and a craft that's all about the pumpkin! Pick up supplies to create your very own pumpkin craft! (Limit 1 craft kit per household). Please note, there is one craft for the entire series and this is part 2 of the series, register for the first session on 10/6 here: https://russelllibrary.libcal.com/event/8097898 This virtual program is for children ages birth-6. Registration is required. We have a limited number of supply kits which will need to be picked up at the Russell Library prior to the online event. If you sign up for a kit after you register a librarian will email you to confirm your supply kits are ready for you at the desk! After you hear from us you can: Pick your kit up during library operating hours (Monday-Saturday: 9-5pm) or Call us at 860-347-2528 and set up a curbside appointment! Supplies for this virtual program were provided by the Friends of The Russell Library.

Have you been waiting for a chance to share your poems with a congenial audience? Then join Middletown Poet Laureate, Cheryl Anne Hale for an evening of "Open Mike Poetry". Open mike slots are five minute long. Signups for reading poetry are on the night of the program. Enjoy an evening of listening to poems. We are grateful to the Friends of the Russell Library for their support of this event. Registration is required for Zoom link. Questions email mbazer@russelllibrary.info

Improve Home Comfort with HeatSmart Middletown We all know that home improvement decisions can be confusing. Let the HeatSmart experts guide you through the process. Learn about: What steps can help improve home efficiency Which EnergizeCT incentives are available to you How various new energy efficient heating and cooling technologies work and which ones might be best for your home Join us for this 4-part series to help you increase your home’s energy efficiency, save money on your energy bills, and improve your home’s comfort. These sessions will all start with a presentation and then provide an opportunity for questions and dialogue…. Participants who attend 3 or more of the sessions will be entered into a raffle drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. October 13 Introduction to the HeatSmart Program – 15 minutes The HeatSmart team will introduce you to the many benefits of participating in this free program supported by the City of Middletown. October 20 Home Energy Audits (HES) – 30 minutes Learn about the ins and outs of getting a home energy evaluation and how this simple visit can save you hundreds of dollars a year. October 27 Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – 30 minutes Want to upgrade your heating and cooling system? Wish your home was more comfortable in the summer and winter? An air source heat pump might be just what you’re looking for. Learn about these systems and why they’re so much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. November 3 Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – 30 minutes In the last session, you will learn about ground source heat pumps, commonly known as geothermal, and the advantages of this type of system. Questions? Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org or Deb Pace deb@pacecleanenergy.org

Light up your day, OR night with these easy to make (and fun to use) popsicle stick flashlights! This event will take place, weather permitting, on the patio in front of the activity room. For ages 6 - and up! Registration is required as supplies are limited. If you have any questions, please contact us at kidsdept@russelllibrary.org This event is sponsored by the Friends of Russell Library. Due to Covid-19 restrictions and to ensure everyone's safety we request that all families follow our In Person event guidelines: We ask that you stay 6 feet away from other families for your safety, as well as the safety of others. If any member of your household is not feeling well, has a fever, or is quarantining, we ask that you and your family stay home. For any portions of our events that are indoors, you may be required to wear a mask, depending on current city building guidelines.

Improve Home Comfort with HeatSmart Middletown We all know that home improvement decisions can be confusing. Let the HeatSmart experts guide you through the process. Learn about: What steps can help improve home efficiency Which EnergizeCT incentives are available to you How various new energy efficient heating and cooling technologies work and which ones might be best for your home Join us for this 4-part series to help you increase your home’s energy efficiency, save money on your energy bills, and improve your home’s comfort. These sessions will all start with a presentation and then provide an opportunity for questions and dialogue…. Participants who attend 3 or more of the sessions will be entered into a raffle drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. October 13 Introduction to the HeatSmart Program – 15 minutes The HeatSmart team will introduce you to the many benefits of participating in this free program supported by the City of Middletown. October 20 Home Energy Audits (HES) – 30 minutes Learn about the ins and outs of getting a home energy evaluation and how this simple visit can save you hundreds of dollars a year. October 27 Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – 30 minutes Want to upgrade your heating and cooling system? Wish your home was more comfortable in the summer and winter? An air source heat pump might be just what you’re looking for. Learn about these systems and why they’re so much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. November 3 Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – 30 minutes In the last session, you will learn about ground source heat pumps, commonly known as geothermal, and the advantages of this type of system.

Russell Library presents weekly opportunities to network with other job seekers, as well as receive the advice of professionals. The focus will be on the job market and provide updated industry information during this uncertain time of COVID19. The Job and Career Group hosts virtual workshops and a weekly networking session via WebEX. You will need to download WebEx to attend. Registration is required. Questions? Bob Carlson rcarlson@russelllibrary.org or Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org This group is possible from a City of Middletown Block Grant, Liberty Bank Foundation Grant, and The Family of Thomas J. Regan.

The October title is The Exiles by Christina Baker Kline. Place a hold for curbside pick-up or E-copies are available at www.russelllibrary.org. Join us IN-PERSON at Stubborn Beauty Brewing at 180 Johnson St, Middletown, CT for our July discussion! Place a hold for pick-up or E-copies are available at www.russelllibrary.org. Questions? E-mail Christy Billings at cbillings@russelllibrary.org Sponsored by the Friends of Russell Library. Registration strongly suggested. From stubbornbeauty.com: Masks will no longer be required indoors or outside if you are vaccinated, if you are not vaccinated please continue to wear your mask inside when not seated at your table. October The Exiles Christina Baker Kline 10/14 Nov The Girl With the Louding Voice Abi Daré 11/11 Dec Miss Benson's beetle: a novel Rachel Joyce 12/9 Questions? E-mail Christy Billings at cbillings@russelllibrary.org Sponsored by the Friends of Russell Library.

Monsters galore! Can you roar?! Join us on Zoom for a singing, snorting, claw-smacking, paw-stomping good time! Together we'll read stories about some not-so-scary monster friends! Pick up supplies to create a fun monster craft (Limit 2 craft kits per household). Please Note: there is one craft for the entire series. This is part 1 of a series, sign up for part 2 on 10/26 here: https://russelllibrary.libcal.com/event/8178302 This virtual program is for children ages birth-6. Registration is required. We have a limited number of supply kits which will need to be picked up at the Russell Library prior to the online event. If you sign up for a kit after you register a librarian will email you to confirm your supply kits are ready for you! After you hear from us you can either Pick your kit up during library operating hours from the hold shelf (Monday-Saturday: 9-5pm) or Call us at 860-347-2528 and set up a curbside appointment! Supplies for this virtual program were provided by the Friends of The Russell Library.

"LiveR: My Journey of Transplant Survival:" Author John Hoffman John Hoffman, author of "LiveR: My Journey of Transplant Survival" will be sharing his remarkable journey as a two time liver transplant recipient. In his own words, John was "born with the rare liver disease biliary atresia, my only hope for survival was the untimely death of another young child, and the success of a very experimental surgery. With the outcome never certain, my parents remained steadfast in the belief that I would get through this and live a long and healthy life. That belief and support carried me through my adolescence, where I was determined not to let my medical history define me. After receiving my second transplant, and third chance at life, I was bound and determined to make it mean something. I struggled with this theme throughout the rest of my high school and brief college career. While medically, I was a resounding success story, emotionally, I was in turmoil. Depression marked a large portion of my late teens and early twenties, as I began to attempt to make my way as an adult. One thought continued to gnaw at me, “Two people have lost their lives to get me to this point, and what do I have to show for it?” It wasn’t until years later that I would find my direction - I needed to share what I’ve been through. While my past shouldn’t define me, it helped to mold who I am, and perhaps I can help others going down this same path. The result of my epiphany is this book. I wrote it not only for myself, but for those like me, who have been honored to be organ recipients. This is my story." Registration required for the Zoom link. Questions: Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org

Improve Home Comfort with HeatSmart Middletown We all know that home improvement decisions can be confusing. Let the HeatSmart experts guide you through the process. Learn about: What steps can help improve home efficiency Which EnergizeCT incentives are available to you How various new energy efficient heating and cooling technologies work and which ones might be best for your home Join us for this 4-part series to help you increase your home’s energy efficiency, save money on your energy bills, and improve your home’s comfort. These sessions will all start with a presentation and then provide an opportunity for questions and dialogue…. Participants who attend 3 or more of the sessions will be entered into a raffle drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. October 13 Introduction to the HeatSmart Program – 15 minutes The HeatSmart team will introduce you to the many benefits of participating in this free program supported by the City of Middletown. October 20 Home Energy Audits (HES) – 30 minutes Learn about the ins and outs of getting a home energy evaluation and how this simple visit can save you hundreds of dollars a year. October 27 Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – 30 minutes Want to upgrade your heating and cooling system? Wish your home was more comfortable in the summer and winter? An air source heat pump might be just what you’re looking for. Learn about these systems and why they’re so much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. November 3 Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – 30 minutes In the last session, you will learn about ground source heat pumps, commonly known as geothermal, and the advantages of this type of system. Questions? Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org or Deb Pace deb@pacecleanenergy.org

What can you build with straws and pipe cleaners? Join us for some virtual STEM fun and create your own 3-D shapes. Create shapes then try your hand at making structures. Test your structures to see how strong they are by using a variety of materials you have around the house. What works, what doesn't? Experiment and have fun! This event will take place, weather permitting, on the patio in front of the activity room. This program is for kids ages 7-11. Due to Covid-19 restrictions and to ensure everyone's safety we request that all families follow our In Person event guidelines: We ask that you stay 6 feet away from other families for your safety, as well as the safety of others. If any member of your household is not feeling well, has a fever, or is quarantining, we ask that you and your family stay home. For any portions of our events that are indoors, you may be required to wear a mask, depending on current city building guidelines. If you have any questions, please contact us at kidsdept@russelllibrary.org This program is sponored by the Friends of the Library.

Improve Home Comfort with HeatSmart Middletown We all know that home improvement decisions can be confusing. Let the HeatSmart experts guide you through the process. Learn about: What steps can help improve home efficiency Which EnergizeCT incentives are available to you How various new energy efficient heating and cooling technologies work and which ones might be best for your home Join us for this 4-part series to help you increase your home’s energy efficiency, save money on your energy bills, and improve your home’s comfort. These sessions will all start with a presentation and then provide an opportunity for questions and dialogue…. Participants who attend 3 or more of the sessions will be entered into a raffle drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. October 13 Introduction to the HeatSmart Program – 15 minutes The HeatSmart team will introduce you to the many benefits of participating in this free program supported by the City of Middletown. October 20 Home Energy Audits (HES) – 30 minutes Learn about the ins and outs of getting a home energy evaluation and how this simple visit can save you hundreds of dollars a year. October 27 Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – 30 minutes Want to upgrade your heating and cooling system? Wish your home was more comfortable in the summer and winter? An air source heat pump might be just what you’re looking for. Learn about these systems and why they’re so much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. November 3 Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – 30 minutes In the last session, you will learn about ground source heat pumps, commonly known as geothermal, and the advantages of this type of system.

Should Job Seekers update their resumes and LinkedIn profiles to include their vacination status? Christy and Bob will tackle this throny topic at this week's Job and Career Group. Russell Library presents weekly opportunities to network with other job seekers, as well as receive the advice of professionals. The focus will be on the job market and provide updated industry information during this uncertain time of COVID19. The Job and Career Group hosts virtual workshops and a weekly networking session via WebEX. You will need to download WebEx to attend. Registration is required. Questions? Bob Carlson rcarlson@russelllibrary.org or Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org This group is possible from a City of Middletown Block Grant, Liberty Bank Foundation Grant, and The Family of Thomas J. Regan.

Gaylord Physical Therapy Fall Prevention Presentation (Zoom) Join us in partnership with Gaylord Physical Therapy of Cromwell for a Zoom Presentation on Fall Prevention Presenter: Andrew McIsaac, PT, DPT Physical Therapist, Cromwell location Identifying fall risk factors with the home. Strategies for fall prevention. Identifying treatment strategies for patients currently experiencing balance and walking difficulties. Includes Q&A Discussion. Sign-ups required for Zoom link. Presenter: Andrew McIsaac, PT, DPT Physical Therapist, Cromwell location Questions? Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org or James Russo jamesrusso@gaylord.org

Improve Home Comfort with HeatSmart Middletown We all know that home improvement decisions can be confusing. Let the HeatSmart experts guide you through the process. Learn about: What steps can help improve home efficiency Which EnergizeCT incentives are available to you How various new energy efficient heating and cooling technologies work and which ones might be best for your home Join us for this 4-part series to help you increase your home’s energy efficiency, save money on your energy bills, and improve your home’s comfort. These sessions will all start with a presentation and then provide an opportunity for questions and dialogue…. Participants who attend 3 or more of the sessions will be entered into a raffle drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. October 13 Introduction to the HeatSmart Program – 15 minutes The HeatSmart team will introduce you to the many benefits of participating in this free program supported by the City of Middletown. October 20 Home Energy Audits (HES) – 30 minutes Learn about the ins and outs of getting a home energy evaluation and how this simple visit can save you hundreds of dollars a year. October 27 Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – 30 minutes Want to upgrade your heating and cooling system? Wish your home was more comfortable in the summer and winter? An air source heat pump might be just what you’re looking for. Learn about these systems and why they’re so much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. November 3 Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – 30 minutes In the last session, you will learn about ground source heat pumps, commonly known as geothermal, and the advantages of this type of system. Questions? Christy Billings cbillings@russelllibrary.org or Deb Pace deb@pacecleanenergy.org

Let's Monster Mash some ingredients together to create squishy, gooey monster slime! We will provide all supplies, so a love of slime is all you need to join in the fun at the library! This event will take place, weather permitting, on the patio in front of the activity room. For ages 6 - and up! Registration is required as supplies are limited. Due to Covid-19 restrictions and to ensure everyone's safety we request that all families follow our In Person event guidelines: We ask that you stay 6 feet away from other families for your safety, as well as the safety of others. If any member of your household is not feeling well, has a fever, or is quarantining, we ask that you and your family stay home. For any portions of our events that are indoors, you may be required to wear a mask, depending on current city building guidelines. If you have any questions, please contact us at kidsdept@russelllibrary.org This event is sponsored by the Friends of Russell Library.

Your ancestor’s death is part of their story. Join us on Wednesday, October 27th at 7 pm for an online presentation about resources that can help you document your ancestor’s death, including death records, gravestone transcriptions, church records, burial transit permits, and more. Presenter Bryna O’Sullivan, a Middletown based professional genealogist and French-to-English genealogical translator, will focus on Connecticut records; however, the principles being covered can be used to research ancestors from other states. Please register online. You will receive a link to join the Zoom meeting approximately 2 hours before the program begins. Funded by the Friends of Russell Library. For additional information, please call the Russell Library at (860) 347-2520.

Improve Home Comfort with HeatSmart Middletown We all know that home improvement decisions can be confusing. Let the HeatSmart experts guide you through the process. Learn about: What steps can help improve home efficiency Which EnergizeCT incentives are available to you How various new energy efficient heating and cooling technologies work and which ones might be best for your home Join us for this 4-part series to help you increase your home’s energy efficiency, save money on your energy bills, and improve your home’s comfort. These sessions will all start with a presentation and then provide an opportunity for questions and dialogue…. Participants who attend 3 or more of the sessions will be entered into a raffle drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. October 13 Introduction to the HeatSmart Program – 15 minutes The HeatSmart team will introduce you to the many benefits of participating in this free program supported by the City of Middletown. October 20 Home Energy Audits (HES) – 30 minutes Learn about the ins and outs of getting a home energy evaluation and how this simple visit can save you hundreds of dollars a year. October 27 Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – 30 minutes Want to upgrade your heating and cooling system? Wish your home was more comfortable in the summer and winter? An air source heat pump might be just what you’re looking for. Learn about these systems and why they’re so much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. November 3 Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – 30 minutes In the last session, you will learn about ground source heat pumps, commonly known as geothermal, and the advantages of this type of system.

Mystery! is a Russell Library-run book club for mystery lovers. The book group discusses a new mystery novel every month. The group meets on Thursdays at 3pm, the last Thursday of the month (or, if Russell is closed at that time, the latest Thursday in the month that we’re open). Starting July 29th, 2021, our meetings will switch back to in person at Russell Library in Meeting Room 2. Books are available at the Circulation desk. No registration required. Questions? Contact Amy Slowik. Click Here to See the List of Upcoming Mystery! Books.