May 2023
Asian American Heritage Month Marked by Exhibit and Panel Discussion
New Canaan Library joins the Fairfield County Chapter of the OCA - a national organization advocating for the rights of Asian Americans - and community partners in celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander National Heritage Month. Throughout May, the Library will feature an exhibit on the 1982 killing of Vincent Chin, a racially motivated crime that galvanized a new civil rights movement. In addition to the exhibit, the month’s focus will include a May 8th panel discussion exploring the current…
Find out more »Matthew Desmond: Poverty, by America: Pulitzer Prize Winning and NYT Bestselling Author
New Canaan Library is pleased to present a special speaking engagement with Matthew Desmond, acclaimed sociologist and Pulitzer Prize winning author of Evicted. Mr. Desmond will introduce his latest book, Poverty, by America, the #1 nonfiction book on the New York Times Nonfiction Bestseller list. Noted as one of the most anticipated books of 2023 by The Washington Post, Time, Esquire, Newsweek, and Minneapolis Star Tribune, among others, Poverty, by America makes a “provocative and compelling” (NPR) argument about why…
Find out more »Marie Yovanovitch, Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, Presents New Canaan Library’s William Attwood Memorial Lecture
New Canaan Library is pleased and honored to announce this year’s William Attwood Memorial Lecture will be delivered by Marie Yovanovitch, Former United States Ambassador to Ukraine. The event takes place on Thursday, May 11 at 7 PM in the Library’s Jim & Dede Bartlett Auditorium, preceded by a light reception at 6:30 PM. Ambassador Yovanovitch will discuss her book Lessons from the Edge: A Memoir, an inspiring and urgent memoir by a pioneering diplomat who spent her career advancing…
Find out more »Lifestyle Expert and Author Mary Giuliani: How to Lose Friends and Influence No One
What happens when a lifestyle expert, author and celebrated "caterer to the stars" (and incessant people pleaser) begins to REALLY ponder "what's it all about?" She writes another book! Mary Giuliani promises a lively evening as she presents her latest book, How to Lose Friends and Influence No One. In her compelling book, Mary Giuliani deconstructs her ever-evolving existential internal conversation in this new collection of essays, beginning when all the world (and all the stars) are ordered to stay…
Find out more »New Canaan CARES Home Tour Patron Party
Please join New Canaan CARES for the Home Tour Patron Party! We all know the kitchen is the Heart of the Home and what better way to celebrate this year’s 30th Annual Home Tour than to be in the heart of the new Library, the prep kitchen. With your Patron level ticket, you will enjoy a beautiful evening with a cooking demonstration by local celebrity chef, Anna Gass and celebrate our sponsors. The Home Tour is our major fundraiser and…
Find out more »Alice Waters’ Edible Schoolyard: Innovation in the Global Food System
Following the incredible success of Chez Panisse, chef, author, and activist Alice Waters founded the Edible Schoolyard Project (ESY) in 1995 — combining her perspectives as a trained Montessori teacher, fervent political activist, gifted chef, and champion of sustainable agriculture. New Canaan Library is pleased to offer a unique event, featuring changemakers behind the mission/work to “edibly educate” the next generation of regenerative growers of local, organic food. Culinary Director of the Alice Waters Institute, Jennifer Sherman, in conversation with…
Find out more »Glass House Presents: Architecture Now: New York, New Publics
The Glass House and New Canaan Library present a lecture by curator Evangelos Kotsioris on Architecture Now: New York, New Publics, an exhibition at The Museum of Modern Art that showcases 12 projects for public-facing spaces across New York City’s five boroughs. In contrast to the violent nature of urban renewal and other disruptive metropolitan initiatives of the past century, recent design approaches in this exhibition propose subtler, nimbler interventions. Considering the city as an ecosystem, these inventive approaches envision…
Find out more »June 2023
Bestselling Author Wendy Walker Introduces Latest Thriller: What Remains
New Canaan Library welcomes thriller novelist Wendy Walker, in conversation with author Deborah Goodrich Royce. Walker will present her latest book, What Remains - a chill-inducing novel about Detective Elsie Sutton who is drawn into a game of cat and mouse with a person she just saved from death. The event takes place on Monday, June 12 at 6 PM. Please register at newcanaanlibrary.org to attend. Wendy Walker is the author of 5 psychological suspense novels that have been translated…
Find out more »Anyone Can Compost: Approaches to Home Composting that Work for You
Presented by Master Gardener and composter Alice Ely, this program will explain how to save water, reduce pollution, and improve your landscape by turning garden waste and food scraps into “black gold” at home. Different approaches work for different people; from composting newbies to those who want to improve their composting skills, Alice Ely will have the answers. Information on how to use the New Canaan transfer station annual paid pass in one’s composting efforts will also be discussed. This…
Find out more »George VI & Elizabeth: The Marriage That Saved the Monarchy
New Canaan Library will welcome renowned biographer Sally Bedell-Smith, presenting her latest book, George VI and Elizabeth: The Marriage That Saved the Monarchy. Granted special access by Queen Elizabeth II to her parents’ letters and diaries and to the papers of their close friends and family, Sally Bedell Smith brings the love story of this iconic royal couple to vibrant life. This heavily researched and revealing book shows how a loving and devoted marriage helped the King and Queen meet…
Find out more »August 2023
An Evening with Argentine Guitarist Carlos Pavan
New Canaan Library invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty and drama of Argentine music when guitarist Carlos Pavan performs familiar classical themes, creatively mixed with Argentine tango, folk dances, and jazz harmonies. Using classic and modern forms and techniques, Pavan elicits beats and tones that are familiar, yet new and amplified by the expertly engineered acoustics of the Jim and Dede Bartlett Auditorium. Argentina born/Brooklyn based composer and guitarist Carlos Pavan arrived in New York in 2000 to…
Find out more »September 2023
Chair Dance: Therapeutic and Fun Movement with Claudia Devita
Boost your energy and spirit with this therapeutic movement class, specifically designed for those in wheelchairs, walkers, or with other mobility challenges. Guaranteed to make you smile, Claudia’s upbeat attitude and specially designed exercise routine makes this dance-based class a complete body/mind experience; allowing you to move at your own pace while increasing flexibility. Claudia DeVita founded the Allegra Dance Studio in Greenwich, CT in 1972. A graduate of Hartford Conservatory of Music and Dance, she shares her passion for…
Find out more »Chef Julia Deane: Late Summer One Pot Dinner Demo at the Library
New Canaan’s own Julia Deane of Culinary Works presents the debut adult culinary program in New Canaan Library’s professional teaching kitchen. Julia will be in the Kend Family Kitchen on Monday, September 11 to demonstrate how to prepare a Late Summer One Pot dinner. Attendees can enjoy a glass of wine and snacks while Julia prepares the meal and are invited to sample the delicious result along with salad, bread and fruit compote for dessert. Recipes for this easy-to-recreate menu…
Find out more »Author Talk: Fiona Davis Presents The Spectacular
New York Times bestselling author Fiona Davis visits New Canaan Library to discuss her new book, The Spectacular. She invites readers behind the shimmering gold curtain of one of the most famous stages in the world, Radio City Music Hall, as a talented young dancer in the 1950s defies society’s expectations to join the glamorous, precision-dancing troupe, the Rockettes. At the same time, a mysterious madman is terrorizing New York City by leaving explosives in some of New York City’s…
Find out more »Aging Successfully and Stressless-ly: Wills & Trusts
Aging is universal and inevitable – and it doesn’t have to be daunting. In partnership with Staying Put in New Canaan, New Canaan Library presents an informative, four-part series that will address important issues to help you, or a loved one, be prepared to age well. Session one address will and trusts. You can't take it with you! That old saying holds true, so you might as well put careful planning in place to make sure what you have –…
Find out more »Author Talk: Fred Landman Presents Sleepy Cat Farm
New Canaan Library presents a talk by author Fred Landman, author and owner of the magnificent Sleepy Cat Farm estate in Greenwich. Connecticut. Sleepy Cat Farm is the vision of Fred Landman, who acquired the handsome Georgian Revival house and grounds in 1994. Deeply committed to the concept of harmony between house and garden, he has dedicated himself to the landscape to create "a garden of which the house could be proud”. Sleepy Cat Farm: A Gardener's Journey is an…
Find out more »Is it Hot in Here…? Menopause Explored and Explained
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, but often falls under the category of health issues that warrant more discussion and explanation. Dr. Siobhan Dolan and Dr. Carol Fucigna, leaders of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Stamford Hospital, will speak about the topic at length. They are lifelong advocates for women's health and will present an overview of the many health issues women may face as they move through menopause. Using data and best practices from…
Find out more »The West Side Story Story: Past. Present and Future
Few Broadway musicals have had as much impact as West Side Story. Accompanied by musical clips, Professor Gil Harel will explore the phenomenon of West Side Story. Inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this modern tale of forbidden love was a collaboration between some of the biggest names in the genre, including Bernstein, Sondheim, Laurents, Robbins, and more. With at least eight revivals since its 1957 premier, West Side Story is as topical as ever. Professor Harel will examine the…
Find out more »October 2023
Oh, My Aching Back! Common Problems and Solutions for the Treatment of Back Pain
As one of the most common adult health complaints, back pain can seem like an inevitable fact of life - but it doesn't have to be! Whether caused by an athletic injury, or simply bending the wrong way, back pain can be treated. Spine surgeon Dr. Robert Merrill and Physical Therapist Alicia Hirscht of Orthopedic Neurosurgery Specialists (ONS) will explain the common conditions of back pain and treatment options to suit your lifestyle. Robert Merrill, MD, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic…
Find out more »‘Fashion Killa’: How Hip-Hop Revolutionized High Fashion
August 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of the birth of the musical genre of hip-hop. Fashion Killa, by music journalist and pop culture expert Sowmya Krishnamurthy, commemorates the contributions of hip-hop to music, fashion, and our culture. Krishnamurthy was recently interviewed by NPR to speak about Fashion Killa, and will be speaking at New Canaan Library. Ms. Krishnamurthy will discuss the sociopolitical forces that defined fashion and tracks the influence of music and streetwear on the most exclusive (and exclusionary)…
Find out more »The End Of Reality: How Four Billionaires Are Selling A Fantasy Future of the Metaverse, Mars, and Crypto Presented by Author Jonathan Taplin
Author Jonathan Taplin speaks about his book The End of Reality¸ which explores and provides perceptive insight into the personal backgrounds and cultural power of four billionaires—Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Marc Andreesen (“The Four”). He shows how their tech monopolies have brought middle-class wage stagnation, the hollowing out of many American towns, a radical increase in income inequality, and unbounded public acrimony. The End of Reality is both scathing critique and reform agenda that replaces the warped…
Find out more »Renowned Journalist Carl Bernstein Presents Library’s Annual Richard Salant Lecture
New Canaan Library is honored to welcome celebrated journalist and author Carl Bernstein as guest speaker for the 23rd Annual Richard Salant Lecture Series. Please register at newcanaanlibrary.org to attend. Famous for breaking the Watergate Scandal in 1972, his journalism for The Washington Post, and five critically acclaimed books, including All the President’s Men, Carl Bernstein has focused much of his career on American politics and the abuse of power. After winning the Pulitzer Prize for his early Watergate reporting,…
Find out more »November 2023
How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life
Join author and expert taster Mandy Naglich as she discusses her book How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life and presents an array of tasty bites to cultivate one’s sensory skills. Her captivating book takes one from novice to master, transforming the reader from a person who eats to a person who tastes. Elevate your sense of taste and get to know the lingo of professional tasters as you taste, smell and sample foods during this…
Find out more »From the Pony Express to Milton Friedman: Icons of American History Reconsidered
Join New Canaan Library for a stimulating conversation about history, myth, and the American ideal. Biographer Jennifer Burns and journalist Will Grant will talk about their latest books, Milton Friedman: The Last Conservative and The Last Ride of the Pony Express: My 2,000-Mile Horseback Journey into the Old West, respectively, and how their books illuminate American cultural ideals of rugged individualism and free market capitalism. Milton Friedman: The Last Conservative brings to life one of the twentieth century’s most influential…
Find out more »The 1787 Constitution and Four Early Political Controversies
American politics certainly has a lot of controversies, and a main reason for that is the way the American Constitution is structured. Professor Jonathan O'Hara will explore the newly created Constitution of 1787, why it was thought needed, and four of the big political controversies it tackled upon its creation. These early controversies—slavery, the creation of a national bank, neutrality, and the Alien and Sedition Acts—have much to teach us about our own contemporary Constitutional struggles. This program is presented…
Find out more »Chef Silvia Baldini Presents Les Dames d’Escoffier New York Cookbook: Stirring the Pot
Chef Silvia Baldini, champion of Food Network’s Chopped series, visits New Canaan Library to present the new cookbook she’s co-authored, Les Dames d’Escoffier New York Cookbook: Stirring the Pot. Silvia Baldini will present a live cooking demonstration in the library’s Kend teaching kitchen and attendees will be treated to a taste of one of the famous recipes from the cookbook. Authors Silvia Baldini and Sharon Franke showcase family recipes and pairings by Pascaline Lepeltier, MOF. Les Dames d' Escoffier New…
Find out more »December 2023
The Beatles: From Liverpool to Abbey Road
Beatles fans, this is for you! Vincent Bruno, Beatles scholar and rock historian, takes you on an interactive, entertaining, and informative journey about The Beatles. From their early days as a cover band in Liverpool and Hamburg, into the excitement of Beatlemania, Bruno covers it all, including concert performances, and films. Learn about their groundbreaking studio albums (Rubber Soul, Revolver, Sgt. Peppers), the formation of Apple Corps and their remarkable final recordings at Abbey Road Studios. The post Beatles’ work…
Find out more »Kerry James Marshall in Print, presented by Art Historian Susan Tallman
Named by the Time 100 list as one of the most influential people in the world, painter and printmaker Kerry James Marshall is known for his stunning representations of African American life, centering Black subjects to address the Western art historical canon’s “lack in the image bank”. Though best known as a painter, Marshall has throughout his career also produced a vast graphic oeuvre that has been seldom seen and documented. New Canaan Library hosts Susan Tallman on Thursday, December…
Find out more »The Nutcracker: Hear the Story, See a Performance, Learn a Dance
The magic of The Nutcracker ballet comes to New Canaan Library when The New England Academy of Dance (NEAD) presents a performance featuring dancers from the company as well as professionals from New York City. Under the direction of Frances Ortiz, Ginna Ortiz, and Ted Thomas, this educational, family-friendly event includes a reading of The Nutcracker book by the Sugar Plum Fairy, followed by a performance of the ballet. Other characters from The Nutcracker, Clara and the Snow Queen, will…
Find out more »Winter Break Puppet Show and Craft
Home for the holidays? New Canaan Library offers some post-holiday wintry fun for kids, grandparents, family, and friends! Special guest Chris Palmieri of Lucky Duck Puppets will charm all ages with the tale of Greg the Penguin as he tries to find his place in the world and help share holiday cheer. Afterwards enjoy a special story time with Ms. Marie, crafts, and a hot cocoa station! All ages welcome, recommended for children 2-7 yrs old. Proceeds from this event…
Find out more »January 2024
A Thrilling Conversation with the New Queens of Crime: Kate Brody and Joanna Margaret
Let’s talk thrillers and crime! New Canaan Library hosts Kate Brody and Joanna Margaret, two new authors in the thriller genre, in conversation about Brody's recent release The Rabbit Hole. Described as a ‘twisty debut,’ The Rabbit Hole explores the dark side of true crime fandom and the blurry lines of female friendship, and guarantees a nail biting, edge-of-seat reading experience. About the Authors: Kate Brody holds an MFA from NYU, and her work has previously appeared (or is forthcoming…
Find out more »THE SLIP: The New York City Street That Changed American Art Forever, Presented by Art Historian and Critic Prudence Peiffer
Art historian and critic Prudence Peiffer has written a riveting biography that captures a time and place- Coenties Slip, NYC during the 1950s and 1060s - that created a defining movement in the art world. Coenties Slip, an obscure and small street at the tip of Manhattan overlooking the East River, was home to a group of extraordinary, then-struggling artists: Robert Indiana, Ellsworth Kelly, Agnes Martin, James Rosenquist, Delphine Seyrig, Lenore Tawney, and Jack Youngerman. For just over a decade,…
Find out more »How Our Brains Succeed and Fail: a Neurosurgeon’s Perspective
Dr. Marc Otten, neurosurgeon and Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at Columbia University Medical Center, will present a fascinating overview of the brain based on scientific literature and experience in the operating room. Included in this lecture will be a summary of the most common brain conditions and treatments, along with an overview of preventative measures we can take to avoid injury and optimize our health span and happiness. About the Presenter: Dr. Marc Otten is a fellowship-trained, board-certified neurosurgeon who…
Find out more »Chop and Chat with Celebrated Baked by Melissa Chef & Founder, Melissa Ben-Ishay
New Canaan Library is pleased to welcome celebrated entrepreneur and social media sensation Melissa Ben-Ishay, the creative force behind Baked by Melissa, for a conversation, cooking demonstration, and signing of her new cookbook, “Come Hungry: Salads, Meals, and Sweets for People Who Live to Eat.” The event will be held on Friday, January 19 at 11:30 a.m. in the Library’s Kend Kitchen and Community Room. This is a ticketed event; the price includes one copy of Melissa’s new cookbook and…
Find out more »Photography of Myanmar: Art and Activism
Award-winning photographer Emily Kelting presents an intimate view of the "most photogenic country in the world," with photographs of the beautiful landscape and humanity that is often missed by tourists. Through the lens of a camera, Kelting takes us through her travels to Myanmar in January 2020, the heartbreaking military coup in February 2021, and the joy of the relationships she forged during her visit. Audience members will learn about Kelting's activism through art, and the importance of friendship that…
Find out more »February 2024
The Promise of Diplomacy, with Former U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Ted Osius
In partnership with the World Affairs Council of Connecticut, Ambassador Ted Osius, former United States Ambassador to Vietnam (2014-17), will discuss relations between the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and how the current U.S.-Vietnam relationship exemplifies the power of diplomacy in ensuring peace. The conversation will be followed by a reception and book signing of Ambassador Osius’ latest book: Nothing is Impossible: America’s Reconciliation with Vietnam. In Nothing is Impossible Ted Osius, former ambassador during…
Find out more »The Modern Landscape of Diamonds: Lab Grown Vs Natural
Learn from expert gemologist Kevin J. Lane about the rapidly evolving diamond landscape and the relationship between mined and lab grown diamonds. Attendees can compare natural versus lab grown diamonds up close while enjoying a glass of prosecco. Attendees who register will not only get a chance to win a beautiful pair of diamond cluster earrings, but in addition, their registration will qualify 10% of their next purchase at Manfredi New Canaan to be donated to the Library – regardless…
Find out more »Celebrate Chinese New Year and Its Many Traditions
Celebrate Chinese New Year at the Library! Chinese New Year is a two-week celebration, and this year it begins on February 10th. Join others to usher in the Year of the Dragon with Chinese dances, traditional food, tea, and crafts. Local organizations and NCHS students will give insight into New Year’s customs such as the kitchen god, honoring ancestors, and the lantern festival. This informative and fun program is a partnership between The Organization of Chinese Americans, Fairfield County Chapter…
Find out more »High Stakes Adventures in Modern Maritime Shipping
Maritime shipping literally makes the world go ‘round, as 90 percent of world trade arrives at its destination via the oceans. New Canaan Library welcomes Anthony Whitworth, whose recent release, The Saltwater Highway, is a narrative of his five decades in the industry, taking us through the evolution of modern maritime shipping, up to present day. Like a high stakes adventure along the seas, Whitworth’s business dealings in maritime shipping included travel to such far-flung places as the Arctic Circle,…
Find out more »April 2024
Bestselling Author Jeanette Walls Presents Latest Novel, Hang the Moon
New Canaan Library welcomes Jeannette Walls, speaking about her latest hit novel, Hang the Moon. Brimming with drama and action, Hang the Moon is set in rural Virginia during Prohibition and tells the tale of an indomitable young woman. Jeannette Walls became a household name with the publication of her memoir, Glass Castle, which remained on the New York Times bestseller list for over eight years. Her following novels, The Silver Star, Half Broke Horses, and Hang the Moon were…
Find out more »Acclaimed Author Don Winslow Discusses His Final Novel, City in Ruins
Award winning and New York Times bestselling Don Winslow comes to New Canaan Library to speak about his work, and introduce his latest and final novel, City in Ruins. Mr. Winslow will be participating in an audience Q&A and signing copies of his novel at the event. Following City on Fire and City of Dreams, City in Ruins is the explosive conclusion to Don Winslow’s epic, genre-defining crime trilogy and the final book of Winslow’s extraordinary career. Don Winslow is…
Find out more »Award-Winning Anchor Alisyn Camerota Presents Memoir ‘Combat Love’
Emmy Award winning news anchor Alisyn Camerota and actress Stephanie Szostak will be in conversation about Ms. Camerota's new memoir. Combat Love is Alisyn Camerota's story of growing up, longing for stability and attachment as the foundation of her family crumbles. Set in the Jersey Shore during the pleasure-seeking 1980s, Camerota finds the belonging she craves courtesy of a local punk rock band named Shrapnel and their diehard fans. Combat Love chronicles her near-misses and misadventures at clubs like CBGB…
Find out more »After-Hours Jazz Performance with the Laura Anglade Quartet
The Laura Anglade jazz quartet comes to New Canaan Library for a special, after-hours performance. Laura Anglade has made a mark in the vibrant music scenes of New York, Paris, Toronto, and Montreal. She will be joined by a stellar ensemble, including Ben Rosenblum on piano and accordion, Paul Sikivie on bass, and Ben Zweig on the drums. The Quartet will perform their own arrangements, drawing from the Great American Songbook as well as some French classics made famous by…
Find out more »Kathy Giusti Presents Fatal to Fearless: 12 Steps to Beating Cancer in a Broken Medical System
New Canaan Library welcomes two-time cancer survivor, business leader, and healthcare disruptor Kathy Giusti, in conversation with journalist Lee Woodruff for a discussion of Ms. Giusti’s informative and inspirational new book, Fatal to Fearless: 12 Steps to Beating Cancer in a Broken Medical System. An involved member of the New Canaan community, Kathy Giusti and her many contributions to the medical and business world have led to inclusion in Time magazine’s Most Influential People and Fortune Magazine’s World’s 50 Greatest…
Find out more »May 2024
Musicals in May: Screening of Top Hat, Starring Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers
New Canaan Library presents the first musical movie in May: TOP HAT, the quintessential Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers film. Fred Astaire stars as a tap dancer and Ginger Rogers as his beautiful neighbor. They dance, and romance from London to Venice in this tip-top musical full of classic Irving Berlin tunes. This was Astaire and Rogers' fourth of 10 screen pairings and was nominated for the Best Picture Oscar. Runtime 100 minutes.
Find out more »Ian Rowe Presents the Four Point Plan to ‘Discover Their Pathway to Power’
Author Ian Rowe presents his book Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for ALL Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power. This book describes four pillars that can uplift every young person as they make the passage into adulthood: Family, Religion, Education, and Entrepreneurship. Together, these pillars embody the true meaning of freedom, wherein people are motivated to embrace the ennobling responsibilities of building healthy social structures and shaping the outcomes of their own lives.…
Find out more »Landscaping for Beauty and Resilience
Landscape design is an investment. The right selection and balance of plants can enhance enjoyment of one’s home, increase property value, and build resilience during erratic weather like floods and drought. Landscape designer Pennington Grey will share images and interventions from distinctive landscapes in the area to show innovative solutions that are as practical as they are refined and beautiful. Pennington Grey’s firm produces and maintains high-caliber, quality work in the Northeast, adhering to strict standards of best practices. He…
Find out more »Dog Researcher and Author Dr. Horowitz Presents “The Year of the Puppy”
Our canine companions are lovable, and entertaining, but also intriguing. What drives them to bark, sniff, and play and what goes on in their canine minds? Alexandra Horowitz, dog researcher and author of The Year of the Puppy: How Dogs Become Themselves will present an enlightening talk as she shares her knowledge and insights about dogs. In this scientific memoir, Horowitz details her puppy Quiddity’s growth and development during this critical year from birth to first birthday. Elm Street Books…
Find out more »A Conversation About New Canaan’s Invisible Crisis: Domestic Violence
New Canaan Library invites the community to an important conversation about New Canaan’s invisible crisis - domestic violence. Moderated by Dede Bartlett, founder of the New Canaan Abuse Prevention Partnership, the program will feature a panel of experts discussing an issue that affects our community and describing what needs to be done to make New Canaan a healthier and safer place for everyone. The panel will feature Susanne Adam, Chief Executive Officer of the Domestic Violence Crisis Center, Dr. Andrew…
Find out more »June 2024
Michael J. Fox Foundation: Latest Developments on Parkinson’s Disease
Iconic actor, author and advocate Michael J. Fox launched the Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000 after publicly disclosing his 1991 diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Since then, the Foundation has been leading the charge on finding a cure for PD and accelerating the development of improved therapies for the 6 million people worldwide living with PD today. New Canaan Library welcomes two key leaders from the Foundation, Fayga Brisman Taylor and Lynn Hagerbrant, who will speak about the renaissance…
Find out more »Love, Luxury & Intrigue in the French Riviera: Camille Aubray on Her New Novel
Dive into the dazzling Mediterranean this summer with Connecticut-based bestselling author Camille Aubray, as she brings to life the glamour and intrigue of the French Riviera in the 1920s with her new novel, The Girl From The Grand Hotel. Aubray's rich, atmospheric historical fiction is set against the backdrop of the Côte d’Azur and the glamorous world of the first (doomed) Cannes Film Festival. Hear about Aubray’s own explorations of the South of France as she researched the events involving…
Find out more »A Trio of Acclaimed Authors in Conversation
Bestselling authors Fiona Davis, Julie Satow, and Susie Orman Schnall visit New Canaan Library, offering a riveting conversation that aims to pave the way to exciting summer reading. Whether it’s Schnall’s Subway Girls, Satow’s new nonfiction When Women Ran Fifth Avenue: Glamour and Power at the Dawn of American Fashion, or Davis’s The Spectacular there will be something for every reading palate at this wide-ranging discussion of the trio's acclaimed works, delivering strong female stories told with heart - and…
Find out more »Hollywood Comedy Classics Screening: The Philadelphia Story
Films at the Library in June focus on the genre of screwball romantic comedy classics, exemplified by The Philadelphia Story, starring Cary Grant, Kathleen Hepburn, and James Stewart. The Library welcomes all to a free screening of this much-loved classic. This 1940 comedy focuses on Tracy Lord (Katharine Hepburn), a Philadelphia socialite who has split from her husband, C.K. Dexter Haven (Cary Grant), due both to his drinking and to her overly demanding nature. As Tracy prepares to wed the…
Find out more »Summer Love Stories: Authors Annabel Monaghan and Amy Poeppel in Conversation
Get your summer of love started with authors Annabel Monaghan and Amy Poeppel, in conversation about Monaghan's new novel Summer Romance! Set in a fictional Long Island beach town, readers follow a recent divorcee and professional organizer whose life is a mess, and the summer in which she gets unstuck with the help of an unexpected person from her past. Don’t miss Annabel and Amy as they dish about the novel Country Living called the “ultimate summer beach read.” Annabel…
Find out more »July 2024
Summer Movie Screening: Dune Part 1
Friday afternoon films! New Canaan Library presents a free screening of the science fiction blockbuster Dune, Part 1. A 6-time Oscar winner for cinematography, editing, score, visual effects, production design and sound, Dune, Part 1 revolves around the character Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode…
Find out more »August 2024
Broadway Cabaret with Gil Harel & the Naugatuck Valley Troupe
The thrill of Broadway Cabaret comes to New Canaan Library when students of CT State College, Naugatuck Valley, delight the audience with songs and scenes from beloved musicals. Under the direction of Professor Gil Harel, this theater troupe has performed in venues across New England. Their dynamic acts have been a hit with audiences of all musical interests and listening preferences. This set will include songs from shows such as Rent, Dear Evan Hansen, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, as…
Find out more »Planets Near and Far: Exploring our Solar System
Humans have studied planets in the solar system, including our own Earth, for centuries. Garrett Levine, PhD candidate in astronomy at Yale, offers a fascinating exploration of exoplanets and the search for other Earth-like planets in our galaxy. Only in the mid-1990s did astronomers first find planets that orbit stars other than the Sun. In the thirty years since that monumental discovery, over 5000 additional planets have been discovered. Perhaps surprisingly, very few of these "exoplanets" resemble anything like the…
Find out more »Author Janika Oza Discusses Her Novel A History of Burning
Award winning author Janika Oza will speak at New Canaan Library in celebration of the release of the paperback edition of A History of Burning. This compelling narrative spans a century of time, four generations of family, five continents and multiple languages, illuminating the themes of family, survival, inheritance, immigration, and colonialism, while centering on one individual’s desperate, destructive act that haunts his family for generations. Along with a discussion and audience Q&A, Janika will be signing copies of A…
Find out more »September 2024
Puccini and the Twilight of The Operatic Golden Age
Born in Lucca, Italy and steeped in operatic tradition, Giacomo Puccini created operas that showcased a brilliance that made him a worthy successor to Verdi. In his talk, Professor Gil Harel will analyze the celebrated opera Madama Butterfly (1904), one of Puccini's most famous works. The Italian opera tells the story of B.F. Pinkerton (American) who marries Cio-Cio-san (Japanese). The result is a sublime score filled with worldly influences, pentatonic music, and rich melodies that frame a heartbreaking story of…
Find out more »Bestselling Author Laura Dave Presents: The Night We Lost Him
Get ready for a lively conversation between New York Times bestselling author Laura Dave and her editor, New Canaan’s own Marysue Rucci, as they discuss her soon-to-be-released novel “The Night We Lost Him.” Laura Dave’s previous novel “The Last Thing He Told Me” sold over three million copies, was named a Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick and is now a limited series on Apple TV+. The talk will begin at 1pm in the Jim and Dede Bartlett Auditorium. The event…
Find out more »Soundscapes from Latino America with INTEMPO
In partnership with the organization INTEMPO, New Canaan Library presents a vibrant concert that celebrates Latinidad. Soundscapes from Latino America showcases INTEMPO's talented teaching artists and advanced students, performing the diverse musical traditions of Latin America. This annual event promises high-level artistry in a cultural celebration not to be missed. About INTEMPO: Founded in 2011, INTEMPO provides high-quality music education to children predominantly from immigrant backgrounds and from communities underrepresented in the arts. Its mission is to engage, educate, and…
Find out more »October 2024
Lovers in Auschwitz: A Journey of Hope and Resilience
Journalist and author Keren Blankfeld tells the incredible true story of two Holocaust survivors who fell in love in Auschwitz, only to be separated upon liberation and lead remarkable lives apart following the war—and then find each other again more than 70 years later. About the Author: Keren Blankfeld is an award-winning journalist whose work has appeared in The New York Times, Forbes, Reuters, The Toronto Star, and others. Her first book, Lovers in Auschwitz: A True Story has been…
Find out more »Cooking to Reduce Food Waste, Presented by Chef Raquel
Did you know that one quarter of all the food we buy gets thrown away, leading to 135 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions and $166 billion dollars squandered from our wallets? Join Chef Raquel from Pinch of Salt to learn how to buy, store, and prepare food in a way that improves flavor and health while saving money and reducing our environmental footprint. Raquel Rivera graduated with highest honors from The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) after completing her…
Find out more »November 2024
Time 100 Honoree and Author Saad Mohseni to Deliver Library’s William Attwood Lecture
Saad Mohseni, author of Radio Free Afghanistan: A Twenty-Year Odyssey for an Independent Voice in Kabul and the Chairman and CEO of Moby Group, Afghanistan’s largest media company, is guest lecturer for New Canaan Library’s William Attwood Lecture. The event takes place on Friday, November 1 at 7 PM in the Library’s Jim & Dede Bartlett Auditorium. Please register to attend: newcanaanlibrary.org. Elm Street Books will be on site with copies available for purchase. Saad Mohseni will speak about his…
Find out more »Chat and Chop with NBC’s Al Roker and Courtney Roker Laga
New Canaan Library presents another exciting Chat and Chop culinary education experience! Emmy-award winner and co-anchor of NBC’s Today, Al Roker, and his daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, will share their passion for food, family, and fun on Sunday, November 3rd, at 2:00 PM in the Library’s Kend Kitchen. Whether a seasoned cook or just looking for some kitchen inspiration, everyone will witness Al and Courtney’s dynamic cooking techniques, learn handy tips and tricks, and discover the stories behind beloved recipes.…
Find out more »Data-Driven Decision Making in a Changing Climate
Climate Central, a Princeton, New Jersey-based, policy-neutral, independent group of scientists, communicators and researchers, presents an informative discussion, providing a data-driven, fresh take on how to protect from growing weather threats, examine investment implications, and plan for a safer financial future. Their non-ideological approach uses big data, science, technology, and compelling visuals to help us make informed decisions, realistically assess local risks, and project how they’re likely to change. This program is co-sponsored by Planet New Canaan
Find out more »Patricia Chadwick Presents Breaking Glass: Tales from the Witch of Wall Street
Wall Street legend Patricia Walsh Chadwick comes to New Canaan Library to present her recently published memoir, Breaking Glass. At 49, Walsh was named a Global Partner at Invesco, marking the culmination of a career that began with her first job as a receptionist at a brokerage firm at 19. For over 30 years, she was a rarity: a woman in the high-pressure, high-stakes finance business. The event takes place on Tuesday, November 19 at 7 pm in the Library’s…
Find out more »HAIR in Concert
Connecticut Stage Company, New Canaan's newest non-profit professional theatre company, is back for its second season which opens with HAIR in Concert on November 23 & 24 at New Canaan Library. HAIR, the American tribal love-rock musical celebrates 1960s counterculture in all its long-haired, bell-bottomed, and psychedelic glory. Featuring chart-topping hits like "Aquarius" and "Let the Sunshine In", HAIR explores ideas of identity, community, global responsibility, and peace as it tells the story of a tribe of New York City…
Find out more »December 2024
Alice in a Winter Wonderland: A Magical Visit with Author and Illustrator Jan Brett
Bestselling and beloved children’s author/illustrator Jan Brett will visit New Canaan Library as part of the book tour for her latest picture book, Alice in a Winter Wonderland. Ms. Brett will begin the Sunday, December 1 event at 10 AM with a drawing and illustration presentation, followed by a book signing. Children of all ages and their families are invited to register to attend. While general admission to Jan Brett's book presentation is free, entrance to the signing line requires…
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