*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.

Visit the Danbury Museum: A Stone's Throw Program to Commemorate Juneteenth (Off-Site)

Registration Required BelowCommemorate Juneteenth in a special way this year with a tour of the Marian Anderson Studio at the Danbury Museum.A resident of Danbury for nearly 50 years, Anderson rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest contraltos of the 2......More

Registration Required BelowCommemorate Juneteenth in a special way this year with a tour of the Marian Anderson Studio at the Danbury Museum.A resident of Danbury for nearly 50 years, Anderson rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest contraltos of the 20th century. In 1939, she was denied the right to sing at Constitution Hall because of her skin color. In what would become a defining moment in civil rights history, Anderson was then invited to perform at the Lincoln Memorial before a crowd of over 75,000. In 1955, at age 58, she became the first Black artist to perform at the Metropolitan Opera.The trip will include a tour of Anderson's studio and a special exhibition First Impressions: What Marion Wore, focusing on Anderson's extensive dress collection.Mark Twain Library’s Stone’s Throw series highlights the very best our area has to offer. We meet up at the destinations and participate in FREE specially arranged, small group tours.Space for the tour is limited — Please register early!Call 203.938.2545 for information.Thursday, June 19HOST: Danbury MuseumLOCATION: 43 Main Street, DanburyARRIVAL TIME: 10:45 amGATHERING SPOT: The Museum's Huntington Hall Building, inside near the glass doors.TOUR DURATION: Approximately 45 minutes, plus additional time to explore the Museum.DESTINATION WEBSITE: www.danburymuseum.orgPLEASE NOTE: Participants are required to provide their own transportation to and from the tour site.This program is part of the Conversations Series which was created in partnership by the Redding League of Women Voters and the Mark Twain Library in an effort to offer our community the opportunity to continue the conversation on race.  Community members can exchange ideas, hear differing perspectives and talk about race.Learn more about Juneteenth and MTL's award-winning Conversations series

DIY Bookmarks - Summer Reading Kickoff Event

Start your summer reading with a brand new bookmark made by you! There will be lots of supplies to decorate with, and even snacks! Make your bookmark and grab a book to go with it.Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Registrati......More

Start your summer reading with a brand new bookmark made by you! There will be lots of supplies to decorate with, and even snacks! Make your bookmark and grab a book to go with it.Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Registration is required.Gr. 5+

It Takes a Village — A Gathering for New Parents

Registration Suggested BelowIt Takes a VillageMeetings are held on the third Friday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.This program is presented in partnership with the Town of ReddingIt Takes a Village is designed to support new parents as they navigate every as......More

Registration Suggested BelowIt Takes a VillageMeetings are held on the third Friday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.This program is presented in partnership with the Town of ReddingIt Takes a Village is designed to support new parents as they navigate every aspect of life with young children, and to help foster meaningful connections between other parents and caregivers. We believe that supporting families during this very important time is vital to the physical and mental health of both parent and child, and to the community as a whole.Parents and "Villagers" of all ages are welcome to attend.Upcoming Meeting Dates: March 21, April 18, May 16 and June 20About the FacilitatorJess Tyson is an entrepreneur, author, community-builder, and mother of two. She started her virtual assistant agency, Don't Panic Management, in 2011, and opened a small co-working and community space in Redding—Georgetown Collective—in 2023. After employing dozens of mothers over the years and learning firsthand the demands that motherhood puts on the bodies and minds of birthing women, she has become a fierce advocate for parental rights in the workplace and beyond. According to Tyson, American society does not value or support mothers the way it should, and the lack of support has taken a toll on the mental and physical health of women everywhere. Tyson said, the data shows that we were not built to care for young children alone and that it truly does take a village to raise a child. She is excited to lead and support this group and usher in a new wave of thoughtful, confident, and cared-for children. We can't pour from an empty cup, and while this chapter is difficult, we don't have to go through it alone!

Pop Tart Taste Test

Come rate your favorite and least favorite flavors of Poptarts at our Secret Poptart Taste Test!Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Registration is required.Gr. 6+

A Celebration of Summer Solstice: A Concert by Crystal Cymbalogy ~ Presented by the Allen & Helen Hermes Arts Series

Registration Required BelowJoin us for a magical evening as we welcome the arrival of summer with a very special Summer Solstice Celebration, outside on the Library’s beautiful new loggia, surrounded by the natural beauty of Redding and the Saugatuck River.This celebrat......More

Registration Required BelowJoin us for a magical evening as we welcome the arrival of summer with a very special Summer Solstice Celebration, outside on the Library’s beautiful new loggia, surrounded by the natural beauty of Redding and the Saugatuck River.This celebration features an evening of music, meditation, ritual and sound healing by Crystal Cymbalogy, a collective of extraordinary musicians who blend global rhythms, sacred sound, and improvised ritual to create a concert experience like no other.About the Experience:This concert is more than music — it’s a ritual for healing and reconnection. The evening will begin with gentle movement to release what no longer serves us, followed by an improvised concert that draws on the innate wisdom of the natural world and the collective field we create together. Expect to end the night grounded, renewed, and cradled by immersive sound.Please Note: The concert will run from 7:00 to 8:30. A reception will immediately follow the concert. Dress Code: Boho Summer Vibe! Chairs will be provided, blankets are welcome. In case of inclement weather the concert will be moved indoors. Children are welcome to attend, but need to be closely monitored because there will be a small fire bowl at the celebrationMeet the Artists:Cynthia Quintanal weaves a lifetime of musical exploration — from church choirs to punk, folk, chant, and ambient improvisation — with her work as a healer, sound therapist, and teacher of traditional medicine. She brings deep wisdom in voice, sound healing, Reiki, and energy work to her performances.Rick Quintanal, with seven decades of professional musicianship across genres from Jazz to Rock and New Orleans Funk, he brings rare musical insight and heart-centered rhythm to every gathering. He has toured and recorded with Don Ellis, Kenny Rankin and Jorge Santana’s Malo.John Marshall is a master percussionist whose global repertoire includes the rhythms of the Middle East, India, West Africa, and beyond. His work has been featured on NPR, PBS, BBC, and he has worked and toured with artists like Paul Winter, Krishna Das, and Glen Velez.Premik Russell Tubbs is a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist whose career spans collaborations with Carlos Santana, Whitney Houston, Herbie Hancock, Lady Gaga, and Ravi Shankar. His cosmic, soul-infused sound brings both technical brilliance and spiritual depth.       The Allen and Helen Hermes Arts Series was founded in 2003, and is funded by a generous gift the couple donated to the Mark Twain Library. The mission of the series is to enrich the quality of life in the community of Redding by producing and supporting events in the visual, literary, theater and musical arts. 

Toddler Popsicle Party & Story Time (for Toddlers)

The coolest kids in town, toddlers, are invited to gather for our Popsicle Party & Story Time. We'll enjoy melty drippy popsicles together and share stories and songs.SNACK: Popsicle brand Scribblers PopsiclesRegistration RequiredPhotos and videos from this event may be......More

The coolest kids in town, toddlers, are invited to gather for our Popsicle Party & Story Time. We'll enjoy melty drippy popsicles together and share stories and songs.SNACK: Popsicle brand Scribblers PopsiclesRegistration RequiredPhotos and videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Build-It Summer with popsicles! (Grades K-4)

Relax this summer at the Mark Twain Library with Build-It! We'll be hanging out building and free playing with our amazing toys such as Legos, Marble runs, Tinker Toys, Lincoln Logs, and more! We'll also enjoy fruit popsicles (Popsicle Brand).Registration RequiredPhotos......More

Relax this summer at the Mark Twain Library with Build-It! We'll be hanging out building and free playing with our amazing toys such as Legos, Marble runs, Tinker Toys, Lincoln Logs, and more! We'll also enjoy fruit popsicles (Popsicle Brand).Registration RequiredPhotos and videos from this event may be used on the Library’s social media sites.

The Reptile Nook (Ages 4-10)

Join us when the Reptile Nook comes to the Mark Twain Library! We'll be meeting the animals up close and diving into learning about a variety of reptile, amphibian, and/or invertebrate species.Registration Required​

Teen Visit with the Reptile Nook (Grades 5 & up)

Join us when the Reptile Nook comes to the Mark Twain Library! We'll be meeting the animals up close and diving into learning about a variety of reptile, amphibian, and/or invertebrate species.Registration Required​

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 (In-Person)

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

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.

Teen Chat & Chew

Teens, join us for a a relaxing morning where you can grab a donut and bagel, chat with friends and browse for your 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 bag......More

Teens, join us for a a relaxing morning where you can grab a donut and bagel, chat with friends and browse for your 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.

Creative Collective Discussion Group: "Light the Dark" (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowHave fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the ......More

Registration Required BelowHave fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the creative process in a congenial, relaxed Zoom setting. Empower your creativity and feed your brain by joining us in the Creative Collective Discussion Group!This spring, our exploration into the power of creativity continues with the book Light the Dark: Writers on Creativity, Inspiration, and the Artistic Process, edited by Joe Fassler. A few copies of the book will be available at the Library.The Creative Collective meets weekly on Tuesdays.Click Here to attend Zoom Meeting  (For registered participants only)

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.

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.

Puzzles on the Patio

Spend time out on our new patio doing puzzles and eating popcorn.Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Registration is required.Gr. 5+

Travel Photography 101 (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowThis step-by-step guide will show you how to document your travel experience with confidence using pro photography tips and tricks. Learn the essentials of “what, when, where, and how” to create photos that really stand out wherever you go.For......More

Registration Required BelowThis step-by-step guide will show you how to document your travel experience with confidence using pro photography tips and tricks. Learn the essentials of “what, when, where, and how” to create photos that really stand out wherever you go.For all skill levels and all cameras/smartphones.Registration is required for this virtual program.  Registered participants will receive a Zoom link the day of the program.  Provide a cell phone number on the registration form to receive a text reminder.About our Presenter:Deborah Tual is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and worked as a marketing professional before starting a portrait photography studio in Stamford with her husband.  She has been very active in the Connecticut Professional Photographers Association as a member, board member, and Executive Manager. As a member of the  Professional Photographers of America she earned distinction as a Certified Professional Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, and Approved Business Instructor.   After 25+ years photographing families and business professionals in Fairfield County, Deborah created a series of photography classes in a range of photography subjects to share her knowledge, experience and love of photography with others.  She supports local education and currently teaches for libraries and continuing education departments in Fairfield and Westchester counties.

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

Check It Out with Pizza Lunch (Grades K-4)

Summer is a great time for a good book and a pizza lunch! We'll enjoy a pizza lunch together and watch a minimovie. Then, we'll head down to the children's book area so that everyone can find their next great read! Don't forget your library card! Children can leave with......More

Summer is a great time for a good book and a pizza lunch! We'll enjoy a pizza lunch together and watch a minimovie. Then, we'll head down to the children's book area so that everyone can find their next great read! Don't forget your library card! Children can leave with their grownup once they've found their book and said "goodbye" to Miss Lisa.Photos and videos from this event may be used on the library's social media sites.Registration Required

Movie & Treats

Welcome to my swamp! Come watch the original Shrek movie and enjoy some swampy treats ...  eyeballs anyone?Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Registration is required.Gr. 5+

Classics Book Club: "A Confederacy of Dunces" (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowThis group is led by MTL's bibliophile extraordinaire,  Catherine Riordan. Catherine taught literature at the college level for many years, and shares her contagious enthusiasm for the classics. The group reads and discusses titles of all time......More

Registration Required BelowThis group is led by MTL's bibliophile extraordinaire,  Catherine Riordan. Catherine taught literature at the college level for many years, and shares her contagious enthusiasm for the classics. The group reads and discusses titles of all time periods, including modern works.Copies of the latest book will be available at the Library's front desk.The Classics Book Club meets in person at the Library.Upcoming Discussions: June 27 — John Kennedy Toole, A Confederacy of Dunces — 1980Click Here to View Recent Classic Book Selections 

Bingo & Cookies

Come celebrate National Bingo Day with a few games of classic bingo, while you munch on cookies and popsicles!Earn extra entries to the grand prize raffle for attending teen summer programs.Registration is required.Gr. 5+