Adult Programs

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

Calligraphy That Inspired a Nation: Learn to Write like America’s Founders

Thursday, March 12 at 6:00-7:30 pm

Who was the calligrapher who wrote the Declaration of Independence? How did they write during the American Revolution? What tools did they use? What lettering style? Can I write like they did? We will explore these questions and more in this hands-on program with calligrapher, Debby Reelitz. Participants will get the opportunity to write in script, use a dip nib and ink and scribe a line from the Declaration of Independence.

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Open Mic Night

Tuesday, April 21 at 6:00 pm

Join us for Poetry Open Mic Night with Durham Poet Laureate Leslie Bulion! The theme this month is Adolescence / Adolescents. 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!

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Creating a Strong Estate Plan: Protect Your Family & Your Finances

Thursday, April 23 at 6:00 pm

Come learn from estate planning and elder law attorney Erin Duques, a partner with the law firm of Daly Perri Arnold & Knierim.

Whether you’re a planner or a procrastinator, having a strong and up-to-date estate plan should be at the top of your to-do list.

In this session, you’ll learn about important estate planning documents like Wills, powers of attorney, advance directives, and trusts, and the purpose and powers included in each.

Even if you’ve already created an estate plan, discover when and if you should have your existing documents reviewed and updated.

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Cookbook Club

Friday, April 24 at 12:00 – 1:30 pm

Do you enjoy discovering new recipes and sharing great food? Then come cook, eat, and connect at our Cookbook Club!

Cookbook Club is part book club, part potluck, and all about delicious fun! We choose a cookbook, and everyone picks a recipe to prepare and bring for the group to sample. It’s a relaxed, tasty way to try new dishes and swap food stories.

Registration is required and space is limited – we’re unable to accommodate drop-ins.

1. Register here

2. Check out a copy of the cookbook.

3. Visit https://tinyurl.com/2cjz7pcx to tell us which dish you’ll be making and bringing to Cookbook Club.

The Library will provide plates, utensils, napkins, and water – just remember to bring a serving utensil for your dish.

Have questions? Email Julie Rio @ jrio@durhamlibrary.org.

This month’s cookbook: “More Mexican Everyday” by Rick Bayless
Copies of the book are available to check out.

Come hungry & ready to taste!

Foraging 101

Tuesday, April 28 at 6:00 pm

Foraging 101 is an intro to learning how to safely and enjoyably get out and begin seeing what the land has to offer. It is focused on Connecticut and New England and will cover land safety, ethical and sustainable harvesting, as well as personal safety. The second half of the programs will teach you how to find multiple items throughout each season.

Presented by Gina Pagano, a self taught forager who has spent countless hours out in the field and with her nose buried in reference books. 

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Trace Your Revolutionary Roots

Thursday, April 30 at 6:00 pm on ZOOM
(In-library viewing will be available for those who need it)

What did your ancestors do to support the American cause? If you’re looking to learn more about your family’s past, this program will help you find out. The program will focus on federal level sources that can be used to document service, as well as some state-level resources. 

Presented by Bryna O’Sullivan of Charter Oak Genealogy.

Co-sponsored by Durham Public Library and Durham’s America 250 Committee.

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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.