New Game Testing & Taking the bus from RES! (7, 8, 9-year-olds ONLY)

7, 8 & 9-year-olds (ONLY), join us at the Mark Twain Library to test out a new board game from one of Redding's own children's game creators! We'll have snack and play games!SNACK: Target Favorite Day brand Fudge Bars; Mott's Assorted Fruit Flavored SnacksChildren who s......More

7, 8 & 9-year-olds (ONLY), join us at the Mark Twain Library to test out a new board game from one of Redding's own children's game creators! We'll have snack and play games!SNACK: Target Favorite Day brand Fudge Bars; Mott's Assorted Fruit Flavored SnacksChildren who sign up for this program can take Bus 22 from RES to MTL; Miss Lisa will meet them when they get off the bus. To take the bus you must: fill out the RES dismissal form and indicate they are going to this program at MTL. register for this program and indicate that your child will take RES Bus 22Registration RequiredPhotos and videos from this event may be used on the Library’s Website.If the event is marked “full” please email Lisa@marktwainlibrary.org

Dying to Know!! — A Moderated Discussion Group on Death and Dying (In-person)

Registration Required BelowJoin us in a judgment-free environment where participants, often strangers, can openly engage in discussion on the topic of death and dying.“Dying to Know” is a moderated discussion group created to explore and normalize conversations around d......More

Registration Required BelowJoin us in a judgment-free environment where participants, often strangers, can openly engage in discussion on the topic of death and dying.“Dying to Know” is a moderated discussion group created to explore and normalize conversations around death and dying. Mickey Nelson and Sue Broudy, certified End-of-Life Doulas, will guide open conversations around mortality. Participants are invited to attend, listen, and share in the conversation as they feel comfortable. All perspectives are welcomed and respected.“Dying to Know” is not a grief support group or counseling session, but a space for sharing conversations and questions about dying and deepening our awareness about death.Group meetings will be held on the second Monday of the month.About Our FacilitatorsSue Broudy was certified as an End of Life Doula in 2016 with INELDA (Int'l. End of Life Doula Association).  She is a Singer Songwriter, Reiki Master, LaHoChi Energy and Sound Practitioner. Sue has written five children’s books. Her first, entitled Rosie, Leafers & PawPaw, helps open the conversation with children about transitioning, being just another part of life. Sue leads sound workshops and meditations and impromptu musical gatherings for healing.  suebroudy.com for more info. Mickey Nelson has been a business owner and independent contractor since 1969! For the past 20+ years he has represented a company called Designs for Health, calling upon Health Care practitioners who focus on maximizing patient health through nutrition and lifestyle choices. He has been a hospice volunteer at Danbury Regional Hospice for the past 1 yr+ and has became a certified end-of-life doula thru Doulagivers (Doulagivers.com). He can be contacted at Dyingtoknow47@yahoo.com

Adult Chess Club (In-Person)

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide ......More

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.As space is limited, we recommend participants register for each program that they plan to attend.About our facilitator:Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!

MTL Writers' Group (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowThe Mark Twain Library's Writers' Group meets twice a month alternating gathering at the Library and via Zoom. Second Monday of the month – Meetings will be held virtually from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Fourth Monday of the month – Meetings will now......More

Registration Required BelowThe Mark Twain Library's Writers' Group meets twice a month alternating gathering at the Library and via Zoom. Second Monday of the month – Meetings will be held virtually from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Fourth Monday of the month – Meetings will now be held in person at the Library from 6:30 PM to 7:45 PM.Currently, the Writers' Group is reading and discussing The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron.In addition to reading books on writing craft, the group's mission is to provide a supportive environment for those looking to share their love of writing with others. The group also serves as a potential source of accountability and feedback for ongoing writing projects. Facilitation of the group will be shared by group members.Prior to attending, it is recommended that group members obtain their own copy of Write Your Novel From The Middle by James Scott BellClick Here to attend Zoom Meeting (For registered participants only)Password: Write

Redding Reads Scripts (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowRelease your inner thespian and join the MTL's Script Reading Group! Participating in this group will allow you to experience stage shows in a whole new way. The aim of this group is to foster a collaborative environment and explore all types ......More

Registration Required BelowRelease your inner thespian and join the MTL's Script Reading Group! Participating in this group will allow you to experience stage shows in a whole new way. The aim of this group is to foster a collaborative environment and explore all types of theater in a casual setting. Everyone who loves the theater, wants to develop their skills, or is simply curious is welcome.This month, we will feature iconic American playwrights of the 1920s and 1930s!  Make your way through the Roaring 20s and the Great Depression with:- Strange Interlude by Eugene O’Neill- The Little Foxes by Lillian Hellman- You Can’t Take It With You by Moss HartNo theater experience required—just a love for storytelling!Meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of each month.  Our Facilitators:Liz Correa is a local mom who has missed reading plays. Her theater background includes New York City, regional and local theater.  She was nominated for Best Actress (Escaleno, lead) at the PEPI; Seville, Spain. Escaleno (lead) also won Best Short Film.  Liz graduated with a Masters of Art’s from Cornell University and was a student of Stella Adler Conservatory (Tisch) and Michael Howard Studios.Eileen O’Brien is a retired award winning drama teacher and director who hails from New Haven. After living in Massachusetts and Florida, Eileen and her husband, Bob have come home to spend their retirement closer to their children and grandchildren in beautiful Connecticut.

Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each......More

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem.

Explore Unexpected Twists and Turns with Bestselling Author Lisa Jewell (Virtual)

You’re invited to an exclusive preview event with New York Times bestselling author Lisa Jewell as she introduces readers to her forthcoming title Don’t Let Him In (on sale June 24, 2025!). Along with an introduction to her newest bone-chilling, psychological thriller, ......More

You’re invited to an exclusive preview event with New York Times bestselling author Lisa Jewell as she introduces readers to her forthcoming title Don’t Let Him In (on sale June 24, 2025!). Along with an introduction to her newest bone-chilling, psychological thriller, Jewell will chat about her life as a writer and her critically-acclaimed body of work. For information or to register click here.

Family Story Time (birth-5)

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay......More

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay to miss sessions. Questions, please email Lisa at Lisa@marktwainlibrary.orgPhotos & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Women & Money Roundtable Series

Registration Required BelowThe Women and Money Roundtable is a monthly financial program created to empower and educate women on financial matters that impact their families and themselves.   Join Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone virtually as they lead a lively and infor......More

Registration Required BelowThe Women and Money Roundtable is a monthly financial program created to empower and educate women on financial matters that impact their families and themselves.   Join Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone virtually as they lead a lively and informative discussion on how to make sense of today’s financial markets.The Women and Money Roundtable series will meet monthly throughout the year.  Please register for each session separately.June 11July 16August 13September 10Registered participants will receive a Webinar link on the day of the program. Include your cell phone number on the registration form and receive one text reminder, with link before the program begins.About the Speakers:Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®Senior Vice President, Wealth Management AdvisorPrior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.  Liz Maccarone, CRPC®Senior Financial AdvisorLiz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation.  Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures trading. This program is sponsored in partnership by the presenters and libraries in Fairfield and Westchester Counties.

Fine Wine or Sour Grapes? Let's Talk About Aging (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowCo-sponsored by Redding’s Commission on Aging“Aging is an extraordinary process whereby you become the person you always should have been,” David BowieAging happens… so let’s talk about it! Join a new, informal discussion group as we talk, lis......More

Registration Required BelowCo-sponsored by Redding’s Commission on Aging“Aging is an extraordinary process whereby you become the person you always should have been,” David BowieAging happens… so let’s talk about it! Join a new, informal discussion group as we talk, listen, learn — and figure out how to turn sour grapes into fine wine.Potential topics will include maintaining relevancy, resiliency, dealing with ageism, acceptance and compassion.The conversation will be facilitated by Redding residents and members of Fine Wine and Sour Grapes. The group will meet at the Library on the second Thursday of the month.Upcoming Meeting Dates: March 13, April 10, May 8 & June 12 

Ron Chernow on Mark Twain (Off-Site)

New Location: Ridgefield Playhouse at 80 E. Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CTTICKETS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT: SOLD OUTDoors will open for general admission beginning at 6:30 p.m.—no early admittance allowed.The Mark Twain Library is thrilled to welcome Pulitzer Prize-winni......More

New Location: Ridgefield Playhouse at 80 E. Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CTTICKETS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT: SOLD OUTDoors will open for general admission beginning at 6:30 p.m.—no early admittance allowed.The Mark Twain Library is thrilled to welcome Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow—one of the most acclaimed biographers of our time—for an unforgettable evening.Chernow, celebrated for his bestsellers Alexander Hamilton and Washington: A Life, now turns his masterful storytelling to Mark Twain. His much-anticipated new biography, a deep and vivid portrait of America’s greatest humorist, was researched in part at the Mark Twain Library — Twain’s invaluable gift to his neighbors here in Redding.This is an extraordinary opportunity; Ron Chernow is in high demand by libraries and bookstores nationwide…but he has specifically chosen The Mark Twain Library as a stop on his book tour. We are extremely honored to be among the exclusive venues where he shares insights into his latest bound-to-be-bestseller.This remarkable event will take place at the Ridgefield Playhouse located at 80 E. Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CTAbout the Author[caption id="attachment_28932" align="alignleft" width="154"] The author and historian Ron Chernow (USA), Brooklyn, New York, April 27, 2017. Photograph © Beowulf Sheehan beowulf@beowulfsheehan.com[/caption]Ron Chernow is the prizewinning author of seven previous books and the recipient of the 2015 National Humanities Medal. His first book, The House of Morgan, won the National Book Award, Washington: A Life won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography, and Alexander Hamilton—the inspiration for the Broadway musical—won the George Washington Book Prize. He has twice been a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award and is one of only three living biographers to have won the Gold Medal for Biography of the American Academy of Arts and Letters. A past president of PEN America, Chernow has been the recipient of nine honorary doctorates.

Adult Chess Club (In-Person)

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide ......More

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.As space is limited, we recommend participants register for each program that they plan to attend.About our facilitator:Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!

Registration Open for Summer Reading!

Click here to register today for summer reading! 

Registration Open for Teen Summer Reading!

Click here to register today for summer reading! 

Registration Open for Adult Summer Reading!

Click here to register today for summer reading! 

Checkout Chat & Chew (All Ages)

The Mark Twain Library's Family Checkout Chat & Chew is a relaxing way to start your summer week with breakfast, friends, toys and books. We'll start the morning with bagels and donuts. Then adults and children will hangout, play, and browse for their next great summer ......More

The Mark Twain Library's Family Checkout Chat & Chew is a relaxing way to start your summer week with breakfast, friends, toys and books. We'll start the morning with bagels and donuts. Then adults and children will hangout, play, and browse for their next great summer read.REGISTER BELOW  Please register separately on each individual date you will attend Checkout Chat & Chew so we can plan how many bagels to buy.Photos & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

3 & 4-Year-Old Summer Story Time

This is an energetic and interactive 40-minute program for independent 3-and-4 year-olds since they will attend story time without their caregiver.  We will share books, music, movement, stories, and crafts.REGISTRATION REQUIRED; space is extremely limited. Email Lisa w......More

This is an energetic and interactive 40-minute program for independent 3-and-4 year-olds since they will attend story time without their caregiver.  We will share books, music, movement, stories, and crafts.REGISTRATION REQUIRED; space is extremely limited. Email Lisa with questions Lisa@marktwainlibrary.orgSpace is extremely limited; please register individually for sessions you intend to attend.

Cooking Class - Summer Reading Kickoff Event

Join us for a fun filled afternoon learning to make homemade pasta from scratch with Mr. Matt, as we kickoff our summer reading program! YumSpace is very limited, registration is required!Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Gr......More

Join us for a fun filled afternoon learning to make homemade pasta from scratch with Mr. Matt, as we kickoff our summer reading program! YumSpace is very limited, registration is required!Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Gr. 6+

Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each......More

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem.

Science Heroes: Adventure of the Missing Color (Ages 5-10)

It's our Summer Kickoff Program!!Join Science Heroes on our mission to turn science into an adventure!Through hands-on experiments and fun, interactive stories, we get kids excited about the science that’s all around us as we celebrate the scientists who color our world......More

It's our Summer Kickoff Program!!Join Science Heroes on our mission to turn science into an adventure!Through hands-on experiments and fun, interactive stories, we get kids excited about the science that’s all around us as we celebrate the scientists who color our world with art!Photos & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Spanish Conversation for Traveling (In-Person)

Registration Required Below¿Hola, cómo estás?Are you traveling to a Spanish-speaking country this summer? Would you like to brush up on your language skills?Join us for a workshop focused on travelers with Almu Corazón, founder of the Connecticut Spanish Club and a Redd......More

Registration Required Below¿Hola, cómo estás?Are you traveling to a Spanish-speaking country this summer? Would you like to brush up on your language skills?Join us for a workshop focused on travelers with Almu Corazón, founder of the Connecticut Spanish Club and a Redding resident who grew up in Spain and is a fluent speaker.In this interactive session, we’ll cover important phrases for arriving at the airport, checking in at the hotel, and dining out at restaurants.All levels are welcome — whether you’re totally new to the language or just need a quick review, this workshop is for you!About Our PresenterAlmu Corazón is an educator, entrepreneur, and systemic facilitator devoted to building meaningful connections across generations and cultures. She is the founder of CT Spanish Club and Systemic Connection, centered on experiential learning, emotional intelligence, and the transformative power of language.With a background in international education, conflict resolution, and behavior analysis, Almu has lived and worked across countries and cultures. She helps children and adults reconnect with their voice, heritage, and sense of belonging. Her approach blends storytelling, systems thinking, and hands-on learning to foster confidence, curiosity, and authentic connection.Through her workshops, Almu offers practical Spanish, cultural insights, and real-world conversation tools to help you feel confident and connected on your next trip. She invites participants to explore Spanish not just as a language, but as a gateway to culture, collaboration, and personal growth. Whether teaching kids on a farm or guiding adults through systemic insights, she reminds us that healing and learning begin in relationships with others, ourselves, and our roots. To learn more about Almu Corazón, follow her on Instagram @AlmuCorazon @CTSpanishClub or visit her website www.connecticutspanishclub.com.

Family Story Time Summer (Birth-5)

It's time for Summer Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.Over the summer, please sign up for each session you intend to attend.Questions, please email......More

It's time for Summer Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.Over the summer, please sign up for each session you intend to attend.Questions, please email Lisa at Lisa@marktwainlibrary.orgPhotos & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.Registration Required

*NEW ~ Silent Book Club on the Loggia – Read, Relax, Connect!

Registration Required BelowThis spring and summer escape into the pages of a great book while enjoying the fresh air and peaceful surroundings of the Mark Twain Library’s new loggia! Join us for our new Silent Book Club, where book lovers gather to read in quiet compani......More

Registration Required BelowThis spring and summer escape into the pages of a great book while enjoying the fresh air and peaceful surroundings of the Mark Twain Library’s new loggia! Join us for our new Silent Book Club, where book lovers gather to read in quiet companionship. Come for an hour, settle into a cozy spot with a book of your choice, soak in the tranquility, and let the world fade away.During the final 10 minutes, you're welcome to mingle, share thoughts on your latest reads, and enjoy light refreshments. No assigned books, no pressure—just a relaxing hour of literary escape and community.Come for the silence, stay for the stories. We can’t wait to see you there!In the case of inclement weather reading and refreshments will be moved indoors.Note: The Silent Book Club will meet regularly on the third Wednesday of the month with the exception of May.  The May meeting will be held on the second Wednesday, May 14.

History Book Club — 'Empire: The Rise and Demise of the British World Order' (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowInterested in history? This book club is for you! Led by members of the Library's Programming Committee, this book club selects engaging history reads and meets regularly for lively and engaging discussions.Copies of the latest book will be av......More

Registration Required BelowInterested in history? This book club is for you! Led by members of the Library's Programming Committee, this book club selects engaging history reads and meets regularly for lively and engaging discussions.Copies of the latest book will be available to borrow at the Library.This month's selection: Empire: The Rise and Demise of the British World Order and the Lessons for Global Power by Niall Ferguson*Please Note: The History Book Club will not meet in July & August, but over the summer members will read Wilderness Warrior : Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America by Douglas Brinkley to discuss when they meet again on September 17.Click Here To View Recent History Book Club Selections.