Essex Library Association

Program for kids ages birth-3 and their caregivers. A play-based music and movement story time for young children and their caregivers!
At Essex Library, we are committed to providing high-quality story time experiences that foster early literacy, social-emotional growth, and a lifelong love of learning.
What to expect:
Each Wiggle Worms session begins with a welcome song where children (or caregivers) are invited to introduce themselves (or their little one), helping build confidence. We sing interactive songs that encourage vocabulary development and gross motor movement, then share a story together while modeling early literacy skills by pointing to words, turning pages, and engaging with the book. After the first book, we play and sing with interactive toys such as shakers, scarves, and rhythm sticks before we wrap up with one final story and a goodbye song.
After story time, families are encouraged to stay, play, and socialize in our Children's Room. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to make friends, caregivers to connect, and our library community to grow together.
This story time will take place every Tuesday morning. Due to space, Please choose 1 session per day to attend.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration required.

Local Event: Wiggle Worms Story Time (Birth - Age 3) 

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Birth - Age 3) 

Program for kids ages birth-3 and their caregivers.  A play-based music and movement story time for young children and their...

Program for kids ages birth-3 and their caregivers.
A play-based music and movement story time for young children and their caregivers!
At Essex Library, we are committed to providing high-quality story time experiences that foster early literacy, social-emotional growth, and a lifelong love of learning.
What to expect:
Each Wiggle Worms session begins with a welcome song where children (or caregivers) are invited to introduce themselves (or their little one), helping build confidence. We sing interactive songs that encourage vocabulary development and gross motor movement, then share a story together while modeling early literacy skills by pointing to words, turning pages, and engaging with the book. After the first book, we play and sing with interactive toys such as shakers, scarves, and rhythm sticks before we wrap up with one final story and a goodbye song.
After story time, families are encouraged to stay, play, and socialize in our Children's Room. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to make friends, caregivers to connect, and our library community to grow together.
This story time will take place every Tuesday morning. Due to space, Please choose 1 session per day to attend.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration required.

Local Event: Wiggle Worms Story Time (Birth - Age 3)

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Birth - Age 3)

Program for kids ages birth-3 and their caregivers.
A play-based music and movement story time for young children and their...

In the mood to make something? Drop in to the Teen Department on Tuesday afternoon to create something new. This month we’re making retro fortunetellers. Ages 12 - 18. Registration is not required.

Local Event: Teen Drop-In DIY

Teen Drop-In DIY

In the mood to make something? Drop in to the Teen Department on Tuesday afternoon to create something new. This month we’re...

Program for children ages birth – 2 and their caregivers.
Music is one of the earliest ways babies learn about the world! In Baby Band, caregivers and little ones will sing, dance, bounce, clap, and explore child-safe instruments in a playful, engaging environment. Along the way, babies strengthen early literacy, communication, motor, and social-emotional skills while caregivers discover fun ways to continue the music at home. No pressure to sit still, wiggles, giggles, and movement are all part of the fun!
What to Expect:
We’ll start by singing some familiar songs to get the party started. Then, we’ll explore rhythm with scarves, shakers, drums, or other child-safe instruments. Before we end, we’ll sing a goodbye song! After baby band, families are encouraged to stay, play, and socialize in our Children's Room. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to make friends, caregivers to connect, and our library community to grow together.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required as supplies are limited.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=596378&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Baby Band (Birth - Age 2)

Baby Band (Birth - Age 2)

Program for children ages birth – 2 and their caregivers.
Music is one of the earliest ways babies learn about the world! In...

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;

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

Ivoryton Library

Join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Play-Doh Day by making our own play-doh and creating with it! Each family will walk away with some homemade play-doh and the recipe to make more!

Local Event: Let's Play With Play-Doh!

Let's Play With Play-Doh!

Join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Play-Doh Day by making our own play-doh and creating with it! Each family...

Discover the wonders of nature through stories, crafts, and activities!

Local Event: Nature Storytime (with Rockfall Foundation) 

Nature Storytime (with Rockfall Foundation) 

Discover the wonders of nature through stories, crafts, and activities!

Acton Public Library

Join Jessica Penfield from Wild Birds Unlimited for a public presentation on supporting local bird populations during the cold months. Learn how to transform your yard into a critical sanctuary by providing essential food, water, shelter, and vital cover when natural resources are scarce.

Local Event: Preparing Your Yard For Winter Bird Feeding

Old Saybrook

Preparing Your Yard For Winter Bird Feeding

Join Jessica Penfield from Wild Birds Unlimited for a public presentation on supporting local bird populations during the cold...

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

Program for kids ages 2-5.
Celebrate the magic of the season with stories, songs, movement, and a festive fall craft as we explore the colors, sounds, and wonders of autumn together!
Join us for themed stories, songs, rhymes, and crafts! We’ll learn early literacy concepts like colors, shapes, opposites, the ABCs and much more, to prepare our pre-school age children for kindergarten.
What to expect:
Each Little Learners session begins with a welcome song where each child is invited to dance and celebrate themselves. We sing interactive songs that encourage vocabulary development and gross motor movement, then read a story together. After the first book, we sing a few more songs and read another story. We conclude our time together with 3-4 craft and play centers that help children develop their early math, literacy, and motor skills.
After story time, families are encouraged to stay, play, and socialize in our Children's Room. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to make friends, caregivers to connect, and our library community to grow together.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is requested to ensure enough crafts are prepared.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=596380&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Little Learners Story Time: Autumn (Ages 2-5)

Little Learners Story Time: Autumn (Ages 2-5)

Program for kids ages 2-5.
Celebrate the magic of the season with stories, songs, movement, and a festive fall craft as we...

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Explore the science of aerodynamics with us! Kids will use everyday objects to create an awesome glider that is part game, part toy, and part physics experiment! Ready, set, fly!
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required, space is limited.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=596384&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: STEAM Saturdays: Magnus Effect Cup Gliders (Ages 5-12)

STEAM Saturdays: Magnus Effect Cup Gliders...

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Explore the science of aerodynamics with us! Kids will use everyday objects to create an awesome...

STEAM Saturdays: Magnus Effect Cup Gliders (Ages 5-12)

Chester Meeting House

The Art of the Guitar series returns to the Chester Meeting House this fall. The series kicks off with Jazz and folk legends Guy Van Duser &amp; Billy Novick on Saturday, September 19. Together as a duo for 50 years, these favorites of "A Prairie Home Companion" will swing their way through American Songbook with their dynamic blend of guitar and clarinet. The series also features jazz virtuoso Frank Vignola with Vinny Raniolo on October 17 and boundary-pushing artist Kaki King on December 5. Individual tickets are $35. Limited discounted Season Passes are available for $90. Learn more at<a href="https://acousticmusic.org/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExMnhhVlJIdXBIcGMySDFMT3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6edznmMbOc0ewKcI9N5g8EUmSGRXydqdcEEszKz76mF5xm7lkFFhS0z-b4uA_aem_NJ4fyK2TGdSNswcpoT3JWg" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> AcousticMusic.Org.</a>

Local Event: Art of the Guitar Concert Series: Guy Van Duser & Billy Novick

Art of the Guitar Concert Series: Guy Van Duser...

The Art of the Guitar series returns to the Chester Meeting House this fall. The series kicks off with Jazz and folk legends...

Art of the Guitar Concert Series: Guy Van Duser & Billy Novick

Changed to September 20th due to rain.&nbsp; Second Annual Car Cruise &nbsp;sponsored by &nbsp;the Knights of Columbus St. Lawrence Council 10657.

Local Event: Car Cruise 

Clinton

Car Cruise 

Changed to September 20th due to rain.  Second Annual Car Cruise  sponsored by  the Knights of Columbus St. Lawrence Council...

Join the Ivoryton Library and Ms. Jessica from the Community Music School for fun songs and jam sessions!

Local Event: Music with Ms. Jessica!

Music with Ms. Jessica!

Join the Ivoryton Library and Ms. Jessica from the Community Music School for fun songs and jam sessions!

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)

Online

<a href="https://libraryc.org/essexlib/197735/register" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Register and ask questions of the author here</a>
Grab a pocketful of change and get ready to dance down the street! Join us for an energetic conversation as we celebrate the joy of community and summer fun with Latin GRAMMY-winning musician Lucky Diaz, author of the sensational bilingual picture book, Paletero Man.
What’s the best way to cool off on a hot summer day? Run quick and find Paletero José!
Follow along with our narrator as he passes through his busy neighborhood in search of the Paletero Man. But when he finally catches up with him, our narrator’s pockets are empty. Oh no! What happened to his dinero? It will take the help of the entire community to get the tasty treat now.
Inspired by the vibrant rhythms of Los Angeles and Diaz’s own hit song, this beautiful story invites readers into a sun-drenched neighborhood where the ring of a bell means the best treat of the day is just around the corner.
Register today and discover how we can all bring a little more sweetness and community spirit into our daily lives!
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required, see above link.

Local Event: Where the Paletero Man Goes: A Journey of Neighborhood, Music, and Art with Lucky Diaz (VIRTUAL)

Where the Paletero Man Goes: A Journey of...

Register and ask questions of the author here
Grab a pocketful of change and get ready to dance down the street! Join us for an...

Where the Paletero Man Goes: A Journey of Neighborhood, Music, and Art with Lucky Diaz (VIRTUAL)

Want to reduce the waste you create?
 Join Karen Evans, environmental educator and member of Sustainable Essex, for a hands on workshop focusing on reducing, reusing, recycling, and rethinking!

Local Event: Become a Green Superhero! (with Sustainable Essex)

Become a Green Superhero! (with Sustainable Essex)

Want to reduce the waste you create?
 Join Karen Evans, environmental educator and member of Sustainable Essex, for a hands on...

Hartford Metropolitan Area

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

A professional artist's glass studio for creative expression

RiverFire Glass LLC

RiverFire Glass is a working kiln glass studio, gallery and teaching space where creativity, craftsmanship and community come together. Located in the heart of Deep River, Connecticut, RiverFire Glass specializes in kiln-formed glass art, handcrafted gifts and hands-on glass fusing experiences for beginners and experienced artists alike. Whether you're creating your first fused glass ornament or designing an intricate glass garden panel, you'll find a welcoming environment where exploration and creativity are encouraged. What makes RiverFire Glass unique is the combination of professional artistic expertise and genuine personal connection. Owner and artist Jeni GrayRoberts has taught more than 2,000 students and brings years of experience in glass, design and creative education to every class. Students are guided through the fascinating process of transforming colorful sheets of glass into beautiful finished pieces through cutting, layering and kiln firing. Unlike paint-and-sip style experiences that focus on reproducing a predetermined project, RiverFire Glass encourages individual expression. Many classes offer a wide range of project choices, design options and creative freedom, allowing each student to create something uniquely their own. Visitors can browse a gallery filled with original kiln glass artwork, functional home décor, jewelry and seasonal gifts, many inspired by nature, water and the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley. Sustainability and thoughtful craftsmanship are woven into the studio's philosophy, with an emphasis on minimizing waste and creating lasting pieces that bring joy for years to come. Whether you're looking for a memorable experience, a unique handmade gift or a chance to discover your creative side, RiverFire Glass offers an inspiring destination where art, learning and community meet.

RiverFire Glass is a working kiln glass studio, gallery and teaching space where creativity, craftsmanship and community come together. Located in...

Connecticut’s only nonprofit, fully integrated senior care

Masonicare

Headquartered in Connecticut and founded in 1898, Masonicare is the state’s only not-for-profit, fully integrated senior care continuum, guided by a longstanding, mission-driven commitment to enhancing quality of life for older adults. Masonicare offers vibrant residential communities and a comprehensive range of health and wellness services designed to promote independence, longevity, and purposeful living. Its statewide continuum includes independent living, assisted living services, skilled nursing, medical and non-medical home health, hospice, adaptive memory care, acute inpatient and outpatient senior behavioral health, outpatient rehabilitation, and audiology services, redefining how aging is experienced by advancing proactive wellness, integrated care, and meaningful connection at every stage of life.

Vincent Salzo

Wallingford

Headquartered in Connecticut and founded in 1898, Masonicare is the state’s only not-for-profit, fully integrated senior care continuum, guided by...

Custom Storage Solutions for the Whole Home

California Closets

From walk-in closets and Murphy beds to kitchen pantries, entertainment centers, and home offices, our professional closet designers are experts in the art of home organization. California Closets is distinguished by a legacy of innovation, organizational expertise, quality craftsmanship, and design authority. Our teams of professional design consultants and installers are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience throughout the entire process of creating and installing organizational systems for the whole home. Serving Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex and New London counties. We are excited to share that our Greenwich showroom is now open. This vibrant space merges creativity and innovation, showcasing a carefully curated environment that emphasizes our latest products and offers an immersive experience for our customers.

Fairfield County

Hayleigh Evans

Monroe

From walk-in closets and Murphy beds to kitchen pantries, entertainment centers, and home offices, our professional closet designers are experts in...

Kaleidoscope Strategic Arts Collective in Downtown Chester

Kaleidoscope LLC

Kaleidoscope stands as Connecticut's premier art gallery and curated gift shop, dedicated to showcasing the extraordinary talents of regional artists and artisans. Strategically located in the historic downtown Chester, Connecticut, our gallery serves as a cultural cornerstone for art enthusiasts, collectors, and visitors seeking authentic, handcrafted treasures. Unparalleled Artisan Collection Our carefully curated collection features works from over 60 distinguished Connecticut artists and authors, representing the finest in regional creativity and craftsmanship. Kaleidoscope offers an ever-evolving selection of quality paintings, hand-thrown ceramics, artisan glasswork, textile arts, fine woodworking, designer jewelry, and locally-authored literature. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the rich artistic heritage and innovative spirit that defines Connecticut's creative community. Dynamic Cultural Programming Beyond our gallery walls, Kaleidoscope functions as a vibrant community hub, hosting signature events including exclusive book signings with local authors, live artist demonstrations, hands-on creative workshops, and engaging community gatherings. Our programming calendar ensures continuous opportunities for artistic discovery, skill development, and cultural enrichment. Integrated Culinary Experience Complementing your artistic journey, KaraBella's Kitchen—our in-house restaurant—provides a sophisticated dining experience, allowing guests to savor exceptional cuisine while surrounded by inspiring artwork. This unique integration of culinary and visual arts creates an immersive destination experience unmatched in the region. Visit &amp; Engage We invite art collectors, gift seekers, and culture enthusiasts to experience Kaleidoscope firsthand. Visit our downtown Chester location to explore our rotating exhibitions and discover one-of-a-kind pieces. For information about upcoming workshops, classes, and events visit our website or stop by our gallery.

Kaleidoscope stands as Connecticut's premier art gallery and curated gift shop, dedicated to showcasing the extraordinary talents of regional...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Events and Things to Do in Essex-Chester-Deep River, CT

Thursday, September 17

Preparing Your Yard For Winter Bird Feeding

SEP

17

6:00 PM

Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, CT

Sunday, September 20

Car Cruise

SEP

20

1:00 PM

7 Hemlock Dr, Killingworth, CT

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Tuesday, September 15

Wednesday, September 16

Thursday, September 17

Friday, September 18

Saturday, September 19

Sunday, September 20

Tuesday, September 22

Thursday, September 24

Saturday, September 26

Preparing Your Yard For Winter Bird Feeding

Car Cruise

RiverFire Glass LLC

Masonicare

California Closets

Kaleidoscope LLC