Essex Library Association

A play-based music and movement story time for children and their caregivers! (Ages birth - 3) This story time will take place every Tuesday morning. Join us!
No registration required. Due to space, Please choose 1 session to attend.

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

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

A play-based music and movement story time for children and their caregivers! (Ages birth - 3) This story time will take place...

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

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3) 

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Join Miss Nicole to build, engineer, and code with LEGO® WeDo! Create exciting projects like a light-up snail, a spinning fan, and Milo the moving Mars rover while exploring the basics of engineering, robotics, and coding. With endless possibilities to build and discover, LEGO® WeDo is a great introduction to coding!<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;EventID=592171&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Registration is required. Click here to register.</a>
<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=592171&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Registration is required. Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Plant the Seed Learning Series: Coding with LEGO® WeDo! (Ages 5-12)

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Coding with...

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Join Miss Nicole to build, engineer, and code with LEGO® WeDo! Create exciting projects like a...

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Coding with LEGO® WeDo! (Ages 5-12)

Program for kids ages birth-5.
Join us for a hands-on, child-led play session designed to engage the senses! Sensory Playtime encourages exploration, creativity, and early learning through touch, sound, and movement. Kids are invited to move from station to station, at their own pace, to scoop, squish, pour, and play with a variety of textures and materials in a safe, supportive space alongside their caregivers. This program supports sensory development, fine motor skills, and social interaction—come play, learn, and make a (little) mess with us!
Program funded in part by the <a href="https://middlesexcountycf.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Community Foundation of Middlesex County</a>, and made possible by the GSB Grant Making Fund, and the Whelen Family Fund.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration required. Drop in!

Local Event: Summer Sensory Play (Ages Birth - 5)

Summer Sensory Play (Ages Birth - 5)

Program for kids ages birth-5.
Join us for a hands-on, child-led play session designed to engage the senses! Sensory Playtime...

Grove Street Park & Playground

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Bring a blanket to sit on, and a snack to enjoy, while we read books, dance around, and sing songs in the park!
This program will be held at Grove Street Park, 16 Grove St, Essex, CT. In the event of rain, story time will not be held.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public. No registration is required.

Local Event: Grove Street Story Time

Grove Street Story Time

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Bring a blanket to sit on, and a snack to enjoy, while we read...

Food Group: The Smart Cookie (Ages 4+)

Program designed around The Food Group book series by Jory John, written for an audience age 4-8. Kids ages 4-12 are welcome to join!
Today we will be reading The Smart Cookie! This cookie has never felt like a smart cookie no matter how hard she tries, especially in comparison to all the clever cupcakes and brilliant rolls in the bakery. Will a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of confidence be enough to help her learn that perfect scores and having all the answers aren’t the only ingredients for intelligence?
Cook, read, and explore with us in this deliciously fun program inspired by Jory John’s Food Group series, one of our featured authors in our “Plant a Seed, Read!” Summer Reading theme. This program will combine stories with simple snack-making. We’ll kick things off by washing hands and learning a few basic food safety tips, because every great chef starts with good habits. Then, we’ll introduce the day’s featured book, and participants will create a themed snack inspired by the story. While our creations bake, chill, or come together, we’ll gather for an interactive read-aloud of the book. Once everything is ready, participants can enjoy their snack or take it to go, along with a recipe card to try again at home. This program blends literacy, hands-on learning, and healthy habits, helping prevent the “summer slide” while keeping kids thinking, creating, and having fun all summer long!
Possible Allergens: recipe contains apple, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, coconut, &amp; chocolate
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=592126&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Smart Cookie (Ages 4-12)

Food Group: The Smart Cookie (Ages 4-12)

Program designed around The Food Group book series by Jory John, written for an audience age 4-8. Kids ages 4-12 are welcome to...

Safe Harbor Essex Island

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Join the Essex Library Children’s Librarian for a fun story time at Essex Island! Bring a blanket to sit on, and a snack to enjoy, while we read books, dance around, and sing songs!
Story time will take place on the lawn on Essex Island (behind Siren). The ferry to the island is located at 11 Ferry Street, Essex, CT 06426. In the event of rain, story time will not be held.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration is required.

Local Event: Story Time at Essex Island

Story Time at Essex Island

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Join the Essex Library Children’s Librarian for a fun story time at...

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

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)   

Program for kids ages 5-11.
If possible, participants are asked to bring their own yoga mat, as we will have limited mats available. Also, bring a water bottle!
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join us for a hands-on workshop where we’ll explore a different hobby, skill, or craft.
Enjoy a fun hour-long Intro to Yoga class led by instructor Amie Meacham! Kids will listen to a story, play a game involving yoga, learn breathing exercises, and follow along with age-appropriate yoga instruction and short meditation, with each participant receiving a small giveaway favor!
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=592129&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Plant the Seed Learning Series: Intro to Yoga (Ages 5-11)

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Intro to Yoga...

Program for kids ages 5-11.
If possible, participants are asked to bring their own yoga mat, as we will have limited mats...

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Intro to Yoga (Ages 5-11)

The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Beat the afternoon heat, soak up the air conditioning, and join us for family-friendly movies that connect us with food, farms, &amp; nature. Popcorn provided.
See the <a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;EventID=591887&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Essex Library Website</a> for movie titles, descriptions, &amp;&nbsp;age ratings.

Local Event: Plant a Seed, Read! Family Movie Series

Plant a Seed, Read! Family Movie Series

The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Beat the afternoon heat, soak up the air conditioning, and join us...

Program designed around The Food Group book series by Jory John, written for an audience age 4-8. Kids ages 4-12 are welcome to join!
Today we will be reading The Cool Bean! Everyone knows the cool beans. They’re sooooo cool. And then there’s the uncool has-bean . . . Always on the sidelines, one bean unsuccessfully tries everything he can to fit in with the crowd—until one day the cool beans show him how it’s done.
Cook, read, and explore with us in this deliciously fun program inspired by Jory John’s Food Group series, one of our featured authors in our “Plant a Seed, Read!” Summer Reading theme. This program will combine stories with simple snack-making. We’ll kick things off by washing hands and learning a few basic food safety tips, because every great chef starts with good habits. Then, we’ll introduce the day’s featured book, and participants will create a themed snack inspired by the story. While our creations bake, chill, or come together, we’ll gather for an interactive read-aloud of the book. Once everything is ready, participants can enjoy their snack or take it to go, along with a recipe card to try again at home. This program blends literacy, hands-on learning, and healthy habits, helping prevent the “summer slide” while keeping kids thinking, creating, and having fun all summer long!
Possible Allergens: recipe contains chickpeas, basil, parmesan, olive oil, garlic, oregano, tomato paste
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=All%20Locations&amp;EventID=592128&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Cool Bean (Ages 4+)

Food Group: The Cool Bean (Ages 4+)

Program for kids and teens ages 7-18.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join us for a hands-on workshop where we’ll explore a different hobby, skill, or craft.
This week, join calligraphy artist Debby Reelitz to bring the alphabet to life! We’ll look at the rules about letters and then break all of them! Step by step, you will learn more than 20 techniques to alter your handwriting, add color with a basic set of supplies and build in decorative elements. We'll be playing with highlighters, pencils, colored pencils, gel pens and markers. Plus, we'll create a mini-project with the techniques we'll learn.
Debby Reelitz’s 5th grade teacher introduced her to calligraphy and she loves to share her passion for handwritten letters with young people. Kids are taught the practical side of the alphabet with spelling and writing sentences and taking tests. Debby loves to help kids discover the joy in being creative with those oh-so-useful-26-symbols. Debby lives in North Granby, Connecticut. Information can be found at her website: <a href="https://letteringdesign.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://letteringdesign.com</a>
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.
<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=592138&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register!</a>

Local Event: Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting Fun! (Ages 7-18)

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting...

Program for kids and teens ages 7-18.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join us for a...

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting Fun! (Ages 7-18)

Chester Meeting House

Program for families with kids of all ages.
The Tri-Town Libraries have collaborated to bring you the Matica Arts Circus Show at the Chester Meeting House!
Get ready for a captivating Circus duo poised to mesmerize audiences of all ages with breathtaking acts of daring and unparalleled skill. This highly engaging 40-minute interactive extravaganza is brimming with joyful, rowdy, contagious energy, and astounding athleticism.
&nbsp;This program is free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.
Register: <a href="https://deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16741754" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16741754</a>

Local Event: Tri-Town Show: Matica Family Circus!

Tri-Town Show: Matica Family Circus!

 Program for families with kids of all ages.
The Tri-Town Libraries have collaborated to bring you the Matica Arts Circus Show...

Program designed around The Food Group book series by Jory John, written for an audience age 4-8. Kids ages 4-12 are welcome to join!
Today we will be reading The Couch Potato! The Couch Potato has everything within reach and doesn't have to move from the sunken couch cushion. But when the electricity goes out, Couch Potato is forced to peel away from the comforts of the living room and venture outside. Could fresh air and sunshine possibly be better than the views on screen?
Cook, read, and explore with us in this deliciously fun program inspired by Jory John’s Food Group series, one of our featured authors in our “Plant a Seed, Read!” Summer Reading theme. This program will combine stories with simple snack-making. We’ll kick things off by washing hands and learning a few basic food safety tips, because every great chef starts with good habits. Then, we’ll introduce the day’s featured book, and participants will create a themed snack inspired by the story. While our creations bake, chill, or come together, we’ll gather for an interactive read-aloud of the book. Once everything is ready, participants can enjoy their snack or take it to go, along with a recipe card to try again at home. This program blends literacy, hands-on learning, and healthy habits, helping prevent the “summer slide” while keeping kids thinking, creating, and having fun all summer long!
Possible Allergens: recipe contains sweet potato, cheese, eggs
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=592140&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Couch Potato (Ages 4+)

Food Group: The Couch Potato (Ages 4+)

Nicole Ballestas

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Clinton

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

Downtown Madison

<h2>The Biggest Sale of the Summer </h2><h2>is in Downtown Madison!</h2>
It's time to shop your favorite local businesses and discover incredible savings during the Madison Summer Sidewalk Sale, happening July 23–26 at participating shops along Boston Post Road &amp; Wall Street.
Whether you're looking for summer fashions, books, gifts, jewelry, home décor, or one-of-a-kind finds, you'll discover special sidewalk sale pricing while supporting the local businesses that make our community thrive.
Participating Stores:
Angie Lu • Ciao Bella • Country Shop • Deux Bisous • Gabel Design Studio • Homeward Collective • J. Horton • J. McLaughlin • Junk2-Junque • Maggie's of Madison • Molly Rose • RJ Julia Booksellers • Slate • The Dressing Room • Walker Loden • Water Street Jewelers • Willow &amp; Birch Creations
July 23–26&nbsp; | &nbsp;10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Shop Local. Enjoy Local. Save Local. Come explore downtown Madison, find your next favorite purchase, and support the local businesses that make our community such a special place to shop, dine, and visit.

Local Event: Annual Summer Sidewalk Sale in Downtown Madison!

Annual Summer Sidewalk Sale in Downtown Madison!

The Biggest Sale of the Summer is in Downtown Madison!
It's time to shop your favorite local businesses and discover incredible...

Radici at the Stand

Join us for a fun night of art! CT artist, Hillary Hany, will be guiding attendees through how to paint a beautiful canvas.
Whether you're a seasoned painter or picking up a brush for the first time, this relaxed, welcoming event is the perfect way to unwind and express yourself. This event is open to all! We're excited to now host this event at a new location, Branford's newest hotspot, Radici at the Stand!
🗓 Date: July 23
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
💲 Cost: Just $15 per person
All materials, appetizers, and pizza will be provided—just bring your creativity! The featured design is of a beautiful tree in a meadow!
📍 NEW Location:
Radici at the Stand
196 S Montowese St
Branford, CT 06405
Grab a friend or come solo and meet new people while enjoying a laid-back night of painting and fun. Spots are limited, so be sure to reserve yours today!

Local Event: Root Center Paint night at Radici at the Stand

Root Center Paint night at Radici at the Stand

Join us for a fun night of art! CT artist, Hillary Hany, will be guiding attendees through how to paint a beautiful...

Nearby Communities

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Posting Activity

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

JUL

21

9:30 AM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

JUL

21

10:30 AM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Coding with LEGO® WeDo! (Ages 5-12)

JUL

21

3:30 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Summer Sensory Play (Ages Birth - 5)

JUL

22

10:00 AM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Grove Street Story Time

JUL

23

10:00 AM

Grove Street Park & Playground, 16 Grove St, Essex, CT

Food Group: The Smart Cookie (Ages 4-12)

JUL

24

3:30 PM

Essex-Chester-Deep River, CT

Story Time at Essex Island

JUL

25

9:30 AM

Safe Harbor Essex Island, 11 Ferry St, Essex, CT

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

JUL

28

9:30 AM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

JUL

28

10:30 AM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Intro to Yoga (Ages 5-11)

JUL

28

4:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Summer Sensory Play (Ages Birth - 5)

JUL

29

10:00 AM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Plant a Seed, Read! Family Movie Series

JUL

29

3:00 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Grove Street Story Time

JUL

30

10:00 AM

Grove Street Park & Playground, 16 Grove St, Essex, CT

Food Group: The Cool Bean (Ages 4+)

JUL

31

3:30 PM

Essex Library Association, 33 West Ave, Essex, CT

Story Time at Essex Island

AUG

1

9:30 AM

Safe Harbor Essex Island, 11 Ferry St, Essex, CT

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting Fun! (Ages 7-18)