Pequot Library Announces June Programs & Activities

FAIRFIELD, CT — Southport's Pequot Library will host a series of public programs in June focused on wellness, history, culture and community engagement, many of them free and open to the public.

The month-long lineup includes activities aimed at a range of age groups and interests, from discussions and educational programs to recreational and cultural events. Organizers said the programs are intended to encourage community participation and exploration of themes related to personal well-being and happiness.

The library is also continuing its commemoration of the nation's approaching 250th anniversary with several programs examining American history and its ongoing significance.

Among the highlights is the June 10 opening of UNFINISHED REVOLUTION: 250 Years of Marking American Independence, a new Special Collections exhibition exploring how Americans have commemorated independence over the past two and a half centuries. The exhibition will open alongside the first of three performances by James Naughton & Friends.

On June 16, Pequot Library, in partnership with the World Affairs Council of Connecticut, will present The U.S. & Cuba: 250 Years of Change—What's Next? The program will feature Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis in conversation with Fairfield resident Jack Leslie, focusing on the historical and contemporary relationship between the two countries.

The library is also encouraging residents to attend the Southport Garden Stroll on June 5. Proceeds from the annual fundraiser support library operations and help maintain free public access to most of its programs and services.

From the library's announcement:

CELEBRATING THE NATION’S 250th ANNIVERSARY

Wednesday, June 10 at 6:00 p.m.: The library unveils their summer Special Collections exhibition, UNFINISHED REVOLUTION: 250 Years of Marking American Independence. The Opening Reception is free and open to the public. One June 10, they’re kicking off a three-part series of live performances featuring legendary performer James Naughton & Friends. This performance is at capacity, but all may join the library for a reception from 7:00-8:00 p.m. James Naughton & Friends will appear also on Sept. 10 and 25 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Log onto the library’s calendar to reserve your spots today. The exhibition is supported by funding through CT Humanities.

Tuesday, June 2 at 2:00 p.m.: Join Special Collections Staff for Out of the Vault: Selections from Pequot Library’s Americana Collections. Take a behind-the-scenes look at items from
Pequot Library’s renowned collection of rare books and manuscripts. This program offers a limited number of guests the opportunity to see a selection of rare materials up close in the Special Collections Reading Room.

Saturday, June 13 at 1:00 p.m.: Register for a behind-the-scenes Exhibition Tour of the library’s summer Special Collections exhibition, UNFINISHED REVOLUTION: 250 Years of Marking American Independence.

Tuesday, June 16 at 6:00 p.m.: RSVP today for The U.S. & Cuba: 250 Years of Change—What’s Next? Join the World Affairs Council of Connecticut and Pequot Library for a unique opportunity to explore Cuba’s past, present, and future with Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, a central figure in the 2015 restoration of diplomatic relations. The conversation will be moderated by Jack Leslie, a longtime Fairfield resident and public relations executive, political consultant, and international development activist.

Thursday, June 18 at 1:30 p.m.: Buy a ticket for the next Further Afield Day Trip | Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden. Tour the grounds, formal parterre garden, and the 18th century residence, which is now cared for by Connecticut Landmarks. Afterwards, gather for lunch at nearby 1794 House in Woodbury. Registration is required. The $50 fee includes the private tour and lunch.

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Friday, June 5 at 10:00 a.m.: Buy your tickets today for the Southport Garden Stroll. Revel in the spectacular beauty of some of Southport's finest outdoor spaces. Enjoy a vendor village on the Great Lawn with 25+ mini-stores, plus a rosé all day tent and a live DJ.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Monday, June 1 at 9:30 a.m.: The library launches a series of The Gold Step with Cori Adams. STEP into a space where a curated playlist, dimmed lights, and pure energy vibes will elevate your soul. All levels encouraged, and all equipment is provided. Registration is limited, and classes cost $35 per meeting. They run on June 1, 8, 15, 29; July 6; August 3, 10, 17, 24.

Monday, June 1 and 8 at 10:00 a.m.: Meet Adult Public Programs Manager Genevieve Swenson for a 45-minute walk in our historic village neighborhood. Registration is limited to 8 participants.

MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS

Thursday, June 18 at 6:00 p.m.: Concert pianist Jodie DeSalvo will debut "All American," a program featuring works by Scott Joplin, John Philip Sousa, Zez Confrey, and George Gershwin, including his iconic Rhapsody in Blue.

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT

Thursday, June 4 at 4:00 p.m.: Enjoy a kid-friendly (grades k-5), interactive version of Much Ado About Nothing performed by Shakespeare on the Sound’s Apprentice Company. This engaging program will introduce children to the characters and plot ahead of the full production in Rowayton’s Pinkney Park. Registration is required.

Monday, June 8 and 15 at 4:00 p.m.: Put your heads together and get building during LEGO Challenges. In this fun, collaborative program, kids will work with others to take on a new LEGO challenge each session in response to a shared prompt. Space is limited. For children ages 5-8.

Friday, June 12 at 5:00 p.m.: Don’t miss the Summer Programs Kickoff Event. Celebrate the launch of the library’s summer programs at this festive picnic. Kids will have the opportunity to tie-dye their own bandana or tote in red, white and blue in anticipation of the 4th of July.

Saturday, June 13 at 10:00 a.m.: The Southport Blessing of the Fleet, a cherished maritime tradition, features a parade, a community breakfast at the Southport School, and boat blessings by local clergy. This annual event, sponsored by the Southport Conservancy, celebrates the town's nautical history at the Lower Wharf and Pequot Yacht Club. This year, the parade route will conclude at Pequot Library Great Lawn with refreshments and fun.

Wednesday, June 17 at 4:00 p.m.: Sign up today for Make a Zine Joke Book. Kids will fold, illustrate, and fill their own mini zines with jokes, cartoons, and all kinds of silliness in this playful hands-on workshop. This program invites children ages 8-12 to explore laughter, creativity, and the fun of sharing joy with others.

Monday, June 22 at 4:00 p.m.: During a hands-on 90-minute program with calligrapher Debby Reelitz, students (grades 2-5) will get the opportunity to learn and practice cursive and design a special signature inspired by famous historical figures from the American Revolution. Space is limited.

Thursday, June 25 at 3:30 p.m.: Children ages 5+ are welcome to Revolutionary Storytime. Revisit the American Revolution in advance of the nation’s 250th birthday through stories, games and crafts.