FAIRFIELD, CT — Pequot Library in Southport will host a series of programs in October, including the opening of a new Special Collections exhibition, concerts, family activities, history programs and wellness events.
Most programs are free and open to the public, though some require registration or charge a fee.
Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2 p.m. — Out of the Vault: Selections from Pequot Library's Americana Holdings
Pequot Library's Special Collections staff will present a selection of rare books and manuscripts from the library's Americana holdings in the Special Collections Reading Room.
Registration is required, and space is limited.
Thursday, Oct. 8, 6 p.m. — Opening Reception: "Lines of Liberty"
Pequot Library will hold an opening reception for "Lines of Liberty: Maps, Power, and the Making of America," an exhibition featuring historic maps, atlases and manuscripts from the library's collection.
The exhibition examines how maps were created and used from the colonial era through the 20th century, including their role in organizing information, expressing beliefs and advancing political claims.
The Revolutionary period is a focus of the exhibition, including maps used by European powers to claim territory and guide armies. Rare maps and atlases are displayed alongside letters and military records documenting experiences during the war in Connecticut.
The exhibition will remain on view through Jan. 9, 2027.
The opening celebration will also feature The Jovial Crew performing sea shanties and other historical and traditional music, including English, early American, Irish and Scottish songs and ballads.
Thursday, Oct. 15, 10:30 a.m. — Glass House Tour and Lunch
The library will host a trip to The Glass House in New Canaan, the mid-century home designed by architect Philip Johnson and now part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The program includes a private tour of The Glass House, Brick House and surrounding landscapes, followed by lunch at Grace Farms, an 80-acre preserve in New Canaan. Participants may also explore trails, the library and permanent art installations at Grace Farms.
Registration is required. Tickets are $60 and include the private tour and lunch.
Friday, Oct. 2, 4 p.m. — Music For Youth Emerging Artists Concert
Music For Youth will open its Emerging Artists Concert season with cellist Leland Phillip Ko and emerging artist Serena Li.
Ko is a first-prize winner of the Walter W. Naumburg International Cello Competition, a recipient of an Avery Fisher Career Grant and a third-prize winner of the Queen Elisabeth Competition.
Li, 15, of Scarsdale, is a student at Juilliard Pre-College, where she studies with Clara Minhye Kim.
Saturday, Oct. 3, 4:30 p.m. — Onion Fest V
Pequot Library and the Sasquanaug Conservancy will host Onion Fest V, a celebration of the Southport Globe Onion and its role in Southport's agricultural history.
Activities include music by the Lackluster Brothers, a bouncy house, ice cream, crafts, games and a raffle. A free walking tour of historic Southport village will begin at 5:30 p.m.
Food will be available from the Proof Pizza Truck and the Fairfield Shellfish Commission. A cash bar will offer mocktails, beer, wine and a Gibson onion martini. An Onion Drop will take place at dusk.
The rain date is Oct. 17 at 4 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 5, 4:30 p.m. — Lego Challenges
Children can participate in Lego building challenges focused on creativity and problem-solving.
Saturday, Oct. 10, 1 p.m. — Ballet Storytime With Tutu School
Tutu School Westport will lead a ballet program featuring a mini lesson, a ballet storybook and a craft. No previous dance experience is required.
The program is for children ages 4 to 8.
Thursday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. — Sensory Storytime
The library will offer a sensory-friendly storytime with stories and activities designed for a range of learning styles and needs.
Saturday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Costume Swap
Pequot Library will hold its first costume swap. Gently used costumes may be dropped off in the Children's Department during library hours from Sept. 21 through Oct. 15.
Participants can select a used costume during the Oct. 17 event.
Thursday, Oct. 29, 6 p.m. — Executive Function at Home: Practical Strategies for Everyday Success
Dr. Benjamin Powers of the Southport School will lead a program for parents about executive function and how children manage attention, behavior, emotions and thinking.
The program will also address how those skills affect routines, relationships, confidence and a child's sense of belonging.
Saturday, Oct. 31, 1 p.m. — Halloween "Boo Fest" and Costume Party
The library will host a Halloween costume party featuring crafts and games, followed by a screening of "Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest."
Monday, Oct. 5 and Oct. 19, 10 a.m. — Monday Meanders
Adult Programs Manager Genevieve Swenson will lead 45-minute walks through the historic neighborhood.
Oct. 14-16 — Mahjong 101
Pequot Library will offer a three-session beginner Mahjong class with certified instructor Kim Meier.
Classes will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14; Thursday, Oct. 15; and Friday, Oct. 16.
The cost is $165 for all three sessions.
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