Essex Library Association

Join us as we chat with award-winning historian David O. Stewart about his newest work, The Democracy We Must Keep, and the question he explores throughout the book: What did America's founders say about democracy, and can we remain true to their vision for America? This program is presented by the Essex Library Association.Register today to gain a deeper understanding of how American democracy started, why it still matters, and the active role each generation must play to uphold it.Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Register <a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;EventID=593349&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a> or call the Essex Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: Why the Ideas that Built America Still Matter with David O. Stewart (Virtual)

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Why the Ideas that Built America Still Matter...

Join us as we chat with award-winning historian David O. Stewart about his newest work, The Democracy We Must Keep, and the...

Why the Ideas that Built America Still Matter with David O. Stewart (Virtual)

Do you have questions about Medicare?
CHOICES (Connecticut's program for Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and referral, Counseling, and Eligibility Screening) helps Connecticut's older adults and persons with disabilities understand their Medicare coverage and healthcare options. Register for a one-hour session with a CHOICES counselor at Essex Library Association. Visit <a href="https://www.youressexlibrary.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">youressexlibrary.org</a> to register for an appointment at 3 p.m., 4 p.m. or 5 p.m.
This program is free and open to the public. Registration is required.
About CHOICES counselors
CHOICES counselors provide free, unbiased, and confidential Medicare counseling to beneficiaries, families, and caregivers.&nbsp; This can include providing education to pre-Medicare enrollees on the when/how to enroll in Medicare. After their enrollment has been processed by the Social Security Administration, CHOICES counselors can provide a comprehensive overview of the options available to them and screen for potential eligibility for financial assistance programs to help pay for Medicare. CHOICES counselors are not insurance agents; therefore, do not gain financially from their decisions.&nbsp;

Local Event: Medicare Can Be Confusing: CHOICES Counseling at Essex Library

Medicare Can Be Confusing: CHOICES Counseling...

Do you have questions about Medicare?
CHOICES (Connecticut's program for Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and...

Medicare Can Be Confusing: CHOICES Counseling at Essex Library

Get ready to extend your growing season like a pro! Join our master gardener, Mark Gostkiewicz, in this workshop where you'll learn the ins and outs of cultivating crops in the fall, winter, and spring. Not only will you learn about the life cycle and needs of cold-hardy veggies and herbs, but you'll also discover the benefits of using row covers, cold frames, and other season-extending techniques.
This program is free and open to all at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Registration is suggested. Register online at youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: Extend Your Growing Season: Mastering Fall, Winter, and Spring Crops

Extend Your Growing Season: Mastering Fall,...

Get ready to extend your growing season like a pro! Join our master gardener, Mark Gostkiewicz, in this workshop where you'll...

Extend Your Growing Season: Mastering Fall, Winter, and Spring Crops

Prepare to launch into the darkest depths of deep space! Join us online as we sit down with master storyteller Daniel Kraus, winner of the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, to celebrate the release of his breathtaking new novel, The Sixth Nik.Register now to gain exclusive insight from one of the most visionary voices in modern fiction. This Essex Library program is free and open to all. Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable Space Crew with Daniel Kraus (Virtual Author Talk)

A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable...

Prepare to launch into the darkest depths of deep space! Join us online as we sit down with master storyteller Daniel Kraus,...

A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable Space Crew with Daniel Kraus (Virtual Author Talk)

International award-winning chocolatiers Sherri and Lauren Athay from Chocolate Geeks/Truffle Shots in Essex, CT will present a bean-to-bar craft chocolate class and tasting. Sample a variety of world-class bars and learn how cultivation, fermentation, roasting, grinding, and conching affect the taste and mouth feel of chocolate. This class, for adults 18+, will be 90 minutes in length. Space is limited. Registration is required.
This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue.&nbsp;

Local Event: Adult Chocolate Class & Tasting at Essex Library

Adult Chocolate Class & Tasting at Essex Library

International award-winning chocolatiers Sherri and Lauren Athay from Chocolate Geeks/Truffle Shots in Essex, CT will present a...

Embark on a visual journey deep into the lush jungles of Costa Rica through professional photographer Bert Sirkin’s photographs. Experience the vibrant beauty of one of the world's most biodiverse countries. Each image offers a window into the heart of Costa Rica's teeming jungles, showcasing the incredible variety of its wildlife in their natural habitats.This program is free and open to all at Essex Library Association, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Registration is suggested as space is limited. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or call the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: A Pictorial Tour of Costa Rica, Presented by Essex Library Association

A Pictorial Tour of Costa Rica, Presented by...

Embark on a visual journey deep into the lush jungles of Costa Rica through professional photographer Bert Sirkin’s...

A Pictorial Tour of Costa Rica, Presented by Essex Library Association

Do you have questions about Medicare?
CHOICES (Connecticut's program for Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and referral, Counseling, and Eligibility Screening) helps Connecticut's older adults and persons with disabilities understand their Medicare coverage and healthcare options. Register for a one-hour session with a CHOICES counselor at Essex Library Association. Visit <a href="https://www.youressexlibrary.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">youressexlibrary.org</a> to register for an appointment at 3 p.m., 4 p.m. or 5 p.m.
This program is free and open to the public. Registration is required.
About CHOICES counselors
CHOICES counselors provide free, unbiased, and confidential Medicare counseling to beneficiaries, families, and caregivers.&nbsp; This can include providing education to pre-Medicare enrollees on the when/how to enroll in Medicare. After their enrollment has been processed by the Social Security Administration, CHOICES counselors can provide a comprehensive overview of the options available to them and screen for potential eligibility for financial assistance programs to help pay for Medicare. CHOICES counselors are not insurance agents; therefore, do not gain financially from their decisions.&nbsp;

Join USA Today Bestselling author and poet J Brooke for a unique poetry writing workshop at Essex Library Association. Brooke’s debut poetry collection “I can Tell You the Version That Will Make You Take My Side” was published in June 2026 to widespread acclaim, and is considered “poetry that’s extremely accessible even for those who don’t read poetry.” 
Whether you’ve ever written or read poetry, come and enjoy a series of fun (sometimes funny) writing exercises to discover your inner poet. Each participant will leave with a working draft of a poem they wrote. This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library Association, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Registration is required.
About J Brooke
J Brooke’s work is known for exploring gender, family, and the incendiary combination of the two. A known essayist and editor, their first book chose a collection of themed poems to deliver candid commentary on their unique gender journey. Born intrinsically male, assigned female at birth, and raised in affluent dysfunction in New York City, their gender expression attempted various forms before embracing their nonbinary identity. Brooke is the Book Reviews Editor at The Rumpus, Poetry Editor at Trans Poetics Archive and they and their spouse have happily called this part of CT home for the past five years.

Local Event: Tell Your Own Story: A Poetry Writing Workshop with J Brooke

Tell Your Own Story: A Poetry Writing Workshop...

Join USA Today Bestselling author and poet J Brooke for a unique poetry writing workshop at Essex Library Association. Brooke’s...

Tell Your Own Story: A Poetry Writing Workshop with J Brooke

Join us for an empowering, eye-opening virtual conversation with renowned wellness expert Yasmine Cheyenne as we discuss her transformative new book, The Comeback Era: From Limiting Beliefs to Living Without Limits.&nbsp;Consider this your official permission slip to stop pretending everything is fine and start building a life you genuinely love.&nbsp;This Essex Library Association program is free and open to all. Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: Shifting from Surviving to Thriving with Yasmine Cheyenne (Virtual Author Talk)

Shifting from Surviving to Thriving with...

Join us for an empowering, eye-opening virtual conversation with renowned wellness expert Yasmine Cheyenne as we discuss her...

Shifting from Surviving to Thriving with Yasmine Cheyenne (Virtual Author Talk)

This&nbsp;interactive workshop, led by Amy Weiss, will introduce participants to&nbsp;several artificial intelligence apps to explore their varied uses.&nbsp;Together, we’ll discuss how AI can streamline daily tasks at work and at&nbsp;home, while also recognizing the ethical and environmental implications&nbsp;of this technology. The responsibilities that AI companies have in&nbsp;keeping its users safe and what we can do to protect our personal&nbsp;information will also be discussed.







Amy Weiss&nbsp;is an assistant professor of Judaic Studies and History at the&nbsp;University of Hartford. She recently received a 2026 Teaching and&nbsp;Learning Grant on AI from the University of Hartford’s Center for&nbsp;Teaching Excellence and Innovation. The university also named her an AI&nbsp;Faculty Facilitator, tasked with creating a professional development workshop for faculty. During the 2025 – 2026 academic year, Amy has&nbsp;served as the lead faculty fellow for the Humanities Center’s Honors&nbsp;Seminar, where she is teaching a two semester course titled “AI in&nbsp;Action: The Future of Humans.” She holds a certificate from the&nbsp;Generative AI: Technology, Business, and Society Program at Stanford&nbsp;University.

Local Event: AI for the Everyday: An Interactive Workshop, presented by Essex Library Association

AI for the Everyday: An Interactive Workshop,...

This interactive workshop, led by Amy Weiss, will introduce participants to several artificial intelligence apps to explore...

AI for the Everyday: An Interactive Workshop, presented by Essex Library Association

Register for this virtual program <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/y8Rxw9d7Q7OwgfaD2_DR4Q" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE.</a>
Is&nbsp;having a trust in your estate plan the best option for you? In this&nbsp;session, estate planning and elder law attorney Erin Duques of Daly&nbsp;Perri Arnold &amp; Knierim in Madison, will demystify trusts and explain&nbsp;why a trust may – or may not - be suitable for you and why. First,&nbsp;you’ll learn about some of the most common types of trusts and the&nbsp;purpose and benefits of each, such as protecting assets, avoiding&nbsp;probate, minimizing taxes, and keeping public benefits for a loved one&nbsp;with special needs. Whether you are new to trusts or even understand&nbsp;them well, you’ll walk away understanding how and when to use these&nbsp;powerful planning tools to your advantage.This Essex Library Association program is free and open to the public.

Local Event: Trusts: Everything You Wanted to Know but Didn’t Know To Ask (Virtual)

Trusts: Everything You Wanted to Know but...

Register for this virtual program HERE.
Is having a trust in your estate plan the best option for you? In this session, estate...

Trusts: Everything You Wanted to Know but Didn’t Know To Ask (Virtual)

Do you have questions about Medicare coverage or are you enrolling in Medicare?&nbsp;Register for a one-hour session (3 p.m. or 4 p.m. or 5 p.m. time slots) with a CHOICES counselor at Essex Library Association. CHOICES (Connecticut's program for Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and referral, Counseling, and Eligibility Screening) helps Connecticut's older adults and persons with disabilities understand their Medicare coverage and healthcare options.&nbsp;This program is free and open to the public. Registration is required.&nbsp;

Local Event: CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library Association

CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library...

Do you have questions about Medicare coverage or are you enrolling in Medicare? Register for a one-hour session (3 p.m. or 4...

CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library Association

Learn how to make a beautiful, layered corn husk wreath in this hands-on craft class at Essex Library, led by local artist and teacher, Brenda Vynalek. Corn husks, a classic symbol of fall, will add textured, rustic warmth to any home for autumn. This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Space is limited. Registration is required.&nbsp;Registration required, begins Sep 3.

Local Event: Corn Husk Wreath: An Adult Craft Class at Essex Library Association

Corn Husk Wreath: An Adult Craft Class at Essex...

Learn how to make a beautiful, layered corn husk wreath in this hands-on craft class at Essex Library, led by local artist and...

Corn Husk Wreath: An Adult Craft Class at Essex Library Association

Join Essex Library for a captivating online conversation with acclaimed author and Smithsonian curator Carolyn Russo as we dive into her fascinating book,&nbsp;The Ascent of Rauschenberg. Explore the towering legacy, unexpected inspirations, and creative heights of one of America's most influential artistic icons. Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: Art in Flight with Smithsonian Curator Carolyn Russo (Virtual Author Talk)

Art in Flight with Smithsonian Curator Carolyn...

Join Essex Library for a captivating online conversation with acclaimed author and Smithsonian curator Carolyn Russo as we dive...

Art in Flight with Smithsonian Curator Carolyn Russo (Virtual Author Talk)

This talk will focus on the life cycles of several medically important tick species in Connecticut, as well as when each life stage is most likely to be encountered based on active tick surveillance data. Knowledge of common tick species and their seasonal activity periods can help people be more vigilant during certain months to better protect themselves, family members, and pets. Speakers: Natalie Bailey, agricultural research technician for the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station will present this talk with Jessica Brown, a CAES agricultural post-doctoral research scientist.
This program is free and open to all at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: Tick Activity Throughout the Year with Essex Library

Tick Activity Throughout the Year with Essex...

This talk will focus on the life cycles of several medically important tick species in Connecticut, as well as when each life...

Tick Activity Throughout the Year with Essex Library

Essex Library Association will host pediatrician, allergist and social media star Zachary Rubin virtually for a discussion of “All About Allergies: Everything You Need to Know About Asthma, Food Allergies, Hay Fever, and More.” The book, “All About Allergies,” offers an in-depth look at both common and surprising allergies, spotlighting patient stories, the history and science behind allergies, common myths, treatment options, and more. This virtual program is free and open to the public. Registration is required for all virtual programs.
About Dr. Zachary Rubin Dr. Zachary Rubin&nbsp;is a double board-certified pediatrician and allergist/immunologist who practices at Oak Brook Allergists in the Chicago area. A nationally recognized medical educator and public health advocate, he shares evidence-based, accessible information on allergies, asthma, and public health with over four million followers under the handle @rubin_allergy.

Local Event: "All About Allergies" with Physician Zachary Rubin, an Author Talk (Virtual)

"All About Allergies" with Physician Zachary...

Essex Library Association will host pediatrician, allergist and social media star Zachary Rubin virtually for a discussion of...

"All About Allergies" with Physician Zachary Rubin, an Author Talk (Virtual)

In the so-called Gilded Age from the 1870s to the 1910s, New London and Groton became playgrounds of the wealthy. New London's Pequot Colony and Groton's Eastern Point attracted the wealthy and influential including U.S. presidents, celebrities, artists, Supreme Court justices and families such as the Plants and Harknesses. In turn, the region also benefited from the philanthropy of these people of power and privilege.&nbsp; Learn about the people and places of the Connecticut shoreline during this era of excess with Gail B. MacDonald. This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT.&nbsp;
About Gail B. MacDonald Gail B. MacDonald is a veteran journalist, recently retired University of Connecticut journalism professor and author of three history books, one of which focused on the Gilded Age. She regularly leads historic-themed tours, including ones focused on the Gilded Age, for Uncovering New London - One Story At A Time, and previously was a docent for the Thames River Heritage Park. She is a New London resident.

Local Event: Glitz and Glamour: The Gilded Age in Southeastern Connecticut with Essex Library

Glitz and Glamour: The Gilded Age in...

In the so-called Gilded Age from the 1870s to the 1910s, New London and Groton became playgrounds of the wealthy. New London's...

Glitz and Glamour: The Gilded Age in Southeastern Connecticut with Essex Library

Programming Librarian

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Clinton

The Haddams-Killingworth

New Haven County

Alfred Branch

Madison

New London County

The Lymes

Richard Kaufman

Guilford

Durham-Middlefield

North Branford

East Hampton-Portland

Chris Dehnel

Middletown

Ellyn Santiago

Branford

Rettich Preserve - Madison Land Trust

Join us for the Madison Land Trust's annual fundraiser at Rettich Preserve. This year featuring The Ethan Robbins Bluegrass Experience with Kathleen Park and Dan Bui of Twisted Pine. Bring lawn chairs and beverages, pizza for purchase courtesy of Fire in the Kitchen Pizza Truck. Parking on site. Tickets purchased on site - $30 per adult, $10 children over age 10, under 10 free.&nbsp;

Local Event: Annual Concert and Dinner Fundraiser at Rettich Preserve

Annual Concert and Dinner Fundraiser at Rettich...

Join us for the Madison Land Trust's annual fundraiser at Rettich Preserve. This year featuring The Ethan Robbins Bluegrass...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

Why the Ideas that Built America Still Matter with David O. Stewart (Virtual)

SEP

1

2:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Medicare Can Be Confusing: CHOICES Counseling at Essex Library

SEP

2

3:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Extend Your Growing Season: Mastering Fall, Winter, and Spring Crops

SEP

3

6:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable Space Crew with Daniel Kraus (Virtual Author Talk)

SEP

8

7:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Adult Chocolate Class & Tasting at Essex Library

SEP

10

6:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

A Pictorial Tour of Costa Rica, Presented by Essex Library Association

SEP

12

2:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Medicare Can Be Confusing: CHOICES Counseling at Essex Library

SEP

16

3:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Tell Your Own Story: A Poetry Writing Workshop with J Brooke

SEP

16

5:30 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Shifting from Surviving to Thriving with Yasmine Cheyenne (Virtual Author Talk)

SEP

17

2:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

AI for the Everyday: An Interactive Workshop, presented by Essex Library Association

SEP

17

6:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Trusts: Everything You Wanted to Know but Didn’t Know To Ask (Virtual)

SEP

24

6:30 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library Association

SEP

30

3:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Corn Husk Wreath: An Adult Craft Class at Essex Library Association

OCT

3

1:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library Association

OCT

7

3:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Art in Flight with Smithsonian Curator Carolyn Russo (Virtual Author Talk)

OCT

8

2:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Tick Activity Throughout the Year with Essex Library