Adult Programs

November 3rd – 29th

In collaboration with the Wadsworth Chapter of the DAR, the Library is collecting items for the veterans at the Skilled Nursing Home at the CT Veterans Home & Hospital in Rocky Hill. Please help us support our male and female veterans with donations of:

  • AXE Body Spray
  • Body Wash
  • Efferdent or Polident Denture Cleanser
  • Boxes of Facial Tissue
  • Laundry Pods
  • Deodorant
  • Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
  • Diabetic Socks
  • Baseball Caps
  • 2026 Calendars
  • Wireless Headphones
  • Electric, Rechargeable Razors
  • Claw Clasp Suspenders
  • Large Digital Wall Clocks

Famous Connecticut Women

Wednesday, November 19, 6:00-7:00 pm
Lower Level Left

Connecticut women helped shape society; they were innovative and impactful in all walks of life. Learn about the earliest pioneer trailblazer, Lady Alice Fenwick, who helped settle Saybrook Colony in 1639; the courageous act of Sarah Sage; and the stories of many other Connecticut women.

Presented by Kathleen Hubbard, former teacher in Middletown Public Schools and co-author of several Arcadia-published books, including Hidden History of Middlesex County, Connecticut.

Co-sponsored by the Wadsworth Chapter of the DAR. Light refreshments will be served.

Register Now

Legacy of a Wealthy Slave

Tuesday, December 2, 6:00-7:00 pm
Upstairs Reading Room

An enslaved man in Edenton, NC, purchased his freedom and came to New Haven, CT. He registered a patent for his invention, & bought property. He sent one son to Hopkins Day School and two to Yale University. They graduated in 1880 & 1881! (His grandson attended in 1913.) AND, as the “New York Times” headline of his obituary in 1886 indicated, he died wealthy.

This story is brought to life by Denise Manning Keyes Page, a descendant of the Manning family and a Moth Mainstage story artist who shares the journey of the unearthing of this history.

Register Now

Card Making with Jesse

Thursday, December 4, 6:00-7:30 pm
Upstairs Reading Room

Learn how to use an embossing folder, make a 3D card, and more!

These beautiful cards will be ready with envelopes to send to your loved ones.

No card making experience needed. All materials and tools will be provided.

Register Now

Open Mic Night

Tuesday, December 16, 6:00 pm
Upstairs Reading Room

Join us for Poetry Open Mic Night with Durham Poet Laureate Leslie Bulion! The theme this month is LIGHT. Bring your favorite poem or original poem to share. A sign-up sheet will be available for local poets to share one poem (max. 5 minutes), up to 14 readers. Or, just come to listen!

Registration is encouraged, and walk-ins are welcome! Come celebrate the arts in our community with an evening of poetry!

Register Now

Durham Public Library Book Club
Meets at the library once a month on Mondays at 6:30 pm.
Click here for a list of upcoming discussions.

French Conversation Group
Meets monthly on the first Thursday of the month from 5:00 to 6:30 pm, via Zoom. Expand your speaking skills by practicing the language in a welcoming atmosphere. Open to all levels of speakers. Email Julie at jrio@durhamlibrary.org for registration information.

Spanish Conversation Group
Meets twice a month on Fridays from 4:00 to 5:00 pm, via Zoom. Expand your speaking skills by practicing the language in a welcoming atmosphere. Open to all levels of speakers. Email Julie at jrio@durhamlibrary.org for registration information.

Our special programs and events are sponsored by PALS: The Friends of the Durham Public Library.