FEATURED PROGRAM

Friends Author Series: An Evening with Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee
Tuesday, September 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

Meet Pulitzer Prize-winning and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee, who will discuss his latest book, The Song of the Cell: An Exploration of Medicine and the New Human.

The conversation will be moderated by Dr. Siobhan Dolan, Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Stamford Health.

Book sale and signing by Elm Street Books. Light refreshments will be served.
Reception at 6 p.m.; program from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $35 for general admission, $25 for Friends members. General admission ticket includes a Friends membership through December 2023. All guests will receive a copy of The Song of the Cell.

Registration required.

MAKEFEST 2023

Happening Today! MakeFest 2023
Saturday, September 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building

The library's annual celebration of makers and creators features programs for families, teens and adults. Join us for the daylong series of events below.
    
STEM Storytime
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

Stories that introduce science, technology, engineering and math. After the stories, take a selfie with our throwback instant camera. Ages 4 and older, with families.

Registration appreciated.

Make a Custom Button
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
First Floor Lobby

Make a statement with a custom button that expresses your personal sense of style. Create your own design or choose from materials provided by the library. All ages; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Retro Video Gaming
11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Lower Level Makerspace

Play retro games like Donkey Kong, Tetris, Pac-Man, Missile Command and more. Teens and adults.

Unleash Your Creativity
12 to 1 p.m.
Third Floor Technology Center

Artist, writer, coach and TEDx speaker Alfonsina Betancourt will share new strategies on how to unleash your creativity. Teens and adults.

Give Ballroom a Whirl
12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

Lessons with professional ballroom instructor Simone Assboeck that will get you on the dance floor in no time. 45-minute sessions begin at 12:30, 1:15 & 2 p.m. Individuals and couples welcome. Teens and adults.

Drop-In STEM Craft
2 to 4 p.m.
First Floor New Materials Room

Join the maker movement by making a STEM craft with us. Ages 4 and older with families.

Role-Playing Tabletop Game
2 to 4 p.m.
Lower Level Community Room

Bring your imagination and join a band of fantastical heroes who brave dangerous situations. Ages 18 and older.

Registration required.

Documentary Screening: Handmade Nation
2 to 4 p.m.
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

This documentary explores the world of modern crafting where people turn from the digital world to make things by hand, forging a new economy and lifestyle. Teens and adults.

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS SERIES

The following programs are presented in partnership with the Network of the National Library of Medicine.
    
Happening Today!

Zumba Dance Party
Saturday, September 9 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

Dance your way to fitness with instructor Pamela Arenas. No excuses!

Registration required.

Also on: Saturday, September 16 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Same location.

Registration required.

Community Mindfulness Project: Meditation
Tuesday, September 12 from 12 to 1 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

A brief discussion about meditation practice followed by a guided meditation with a chance to share and reflect. Please arrive five minutes early.
    
Lunchtime Yoga
Wednesday, September 13 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

Yoga instructor Ngan Nguyen will lead a class in the Hatha style. Please bring a mat and water.

Registration required.

FAMILY PROGRAMS

Open Game Night
Monday, September 11 from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Third Floor Technology Center

Play a game from the library's collection or or bring your own. All ages.
    
National Hispanic Heritage Month Program
Movie Screening: The Book of Life
Friday, September 15 from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

In this animated feature, Manolo embarks on an adventure that spans three fantastic worlds. Starring Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana and Channing Tatum. Raged PG. Ages 6 and older.

PROGRAMS

Happening Today!

Friends Book Shop Sale
Saturday, September 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Outdoor Plaza

The book shop is holding its signature sidewalk sale as part of Arts & Crafts on Bedford. Shop for books, media, crafts and games for the whole family. Proceeds benefit the library's programs and services. In the event of rain, the sale will move to library's lobby.

Happening Today!

Silent Book Club
Saturday, September 9 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

Read the book of your choice in the quiet company of others. You can briefly share your thoughts about what you're reading or quietly listen.
    
Happening Today!

Super Smash Bros. Tournament
Saturday, September 9 from 2 to 4 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

Choose your character and try to outlast your friends during the library’s first Super Smash Bros. Ultimate game tournament. Prizes will be awarded; controllers provided. Ages 18 and older.

Registration required.

Weed Memorial & Hollander Branch Book Discussion
Monday, September 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. via Zoom
Dinners with Ruth by Nina Totenberg

Celebrated NPR correspondent Nina Totenberg delivers an extraordinary memoir of her personal successes, struggles, and life-affirming relationships, including her beautiful friendship with the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Join the discussion here.

Knit & Needles Knitting Group
Monday, September 11 from 1 to 3:30 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

Work on your own knitting and crocheting projects in the company of others. All levels welcome.

Health Check: Know Your Numbers
Monday, September 11 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Third Floor Rotary Room

Free blood pressure and pre-diabetes screenings and height and weight checks.

Presented in partnership with the Stamford Health Department.
    
Harry Bennett Branch Book Discussion
Monday, September 11 from 6 to 7 p.m. via Zoom
When the Emperor was Divine by Julie Otsuka

This work of historical fiction explores the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II through the eyes of one family. Join the discussion here.

Healing Drum Circle
Monday, September 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
South End Branch

A meditative gathering dedicated to healing the wounds of racism and supporting equity activism. Facilitated by Evelyn Avoglia.
    
English Language Learners
Let's Talk: Conversation Groups
Conversation groups for English language learners. Registration not required. New students welcome.

Fal Sessions via Zoom
Tuesday, September 12
New students: from 12 to 12:30 p.m.
High beginner: from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m.
Low intermediate: from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Advanced: from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday, September 13
High intermediate: from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Beginner: from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Evening Sessions: In Person

Practice your communication skills in a group setting at the Main Library and Harry Bennett Branch.

Tuesday, September12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Lower Level Community Area

Harry Bennett Branch
Thursday, September 14 rom 6 to 7:00 p.m.

Game Night: Munchkin
Tuesday, September 12 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
First Floor New Materials Room

Play a game from the library's collection, or learn how to play this month's featured game, Munchkin. Teens and adults.

Registration required.

Canasta Club
Wednesday, September 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

Come play this fun mix of bridge and rummy. All levels welcome.
    
Watch with Kanopy
Wednesday, September 13 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

Learn how to use Kanopy, a free, on-demand streaming video platform for libraries that offers movies, TV shows and documentaries. Bring your smartphone or tablet and library card.

Social Justice Book Discussion
Wednesday, September 13 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch
Heartland by Sarah Smarsh

The author, who was raised in a family of laborers, examines class, identity and economic hardship in America through the lens of her turbulent Kansas childhood. Discussion also available via Zoom. Join here.
    
Mah-Jongg Club
Thursday, September 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

Experienced players are invited to play the popular tile-based game of mah-jongg.

Beginners welcome the first week of the month.

Spanish Book Discussion
Thursday, September 14 from 5 to 6 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Ann M. Sexton Board Room
Album de familia by Gabriel Aleman

In this collection of eight hugely entertaining short stories, the author teases tropes of hardboiled detective fiction, satire and adventure narratives to recast the discussion of the Ecuadorian national identity.
    
Dungeons & Dragons
Thursday, September 14 from 6 to 7:45 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Lower Level Community Area

Join an imaginary band of heroes who brave dangerous situations with swords, spells and wits. Ages 18 and older. Beginners welcome.

Registration required.

Classic Movie Matinee
Friday, September 15 from 2 to 4 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch
Ferris Bueller's Day Off

When slacker Ferris skips high school, he goes to extreme lengths to avoid getting caught by the principal. Starring Matthew Broderick, Mia Sara, Alan Ruck and Jennifer Grey. (1986) Rated PG-13.

Friday Flicks
Friday, September 15 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

Although Rudy has been told he’s too small to play college football, he’s determined to fulfill his dream to play for Notre Dame. Starring Sean Astin, Ned Beatty and Charles S. Dutton. (1993) Rated PG.
    
Old Folkies Acoustic Singalong
Saturday, September 16 from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Weed Hollander & Memorial Branch

An afternoon of toe-tapping musical delights with Dr. Ev. And yes, she takes requests. Refreshments will be served.

BUSINESS, CAREER & TECHNOLOGY
    
Tech Tips for Older Adults
Tuesday, September 12 from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
South End Branch

Free weekly tech help on smartphones, tablets, laptops and other devices with our experienced bilingual (English and Spanish) experts.

Intermediate Microsoft Word
Thursday, September14 from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Third Floor Technology Center

Learn how to add images and tables to documents, use Styles to format a document, and edit the header and footer.

Registration required.
    
Open Lab: Resume Assistance
Thursday, September 14 from 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Third Floor Technology Center

Job seekers are invited to use our technology lab for one-on-one help creating, formatting and proofreading a resume. Bring a written or digital copy of your resume. Teens and adults.

Registration appreciated.

TechXel Stamford Accelerator Series via Zoom
Thursday, September 14 from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.
Business Formation & Contracts
Russell Anderson, Esq., Pullman & Comley

Anderson has extensive experience advising clients in the software, e-commerce, marketing, market research, healthcare and biotechnology industries.

Registration required here.

Please register before 12 p.m. September 14. Zoom invitations will be sent by 1 p.m.

COMING SOON

A Conversation with Barbara Butcher,
Former Chief of Staff of the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner
Tuesday, September 19 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

Butcher will discuss her book What the Dead Know: Learning About Life as a New York City Death Investigator. The conversation will be moderated by Michelle Clark, Medicolegal Death Investigator for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Connecticut. Book sale and signing by Elm Street Books.

Registration required.

New! Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror Book Discussion
Thursday, September 21 from 6 to 7 p.m. via Zoom
Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie

This new virtual book discussion series launches with a discussion of Leckie's 2013 novel featuring the story of Breq, the vengeance-seeking survivor of a starship destroyed by treachery. Join the discussion here.
    
Author Talk: Deborah DiSesa Hirsch
Wednesday, September 27 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Harry Bennett Branch

The local author will discuss her book, Counterfeit Mother. which explores her difficult decision to use a donor to become a first-time mother in her forties. The author reflects on the emotional journey of acceptance that followed her son's birth.

Registration required.
    
A Conversation with Michael Harriot
Wednesday, September 27 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. via Zoom

The award-winning journalist, author and cultural critic will discuss his latest book, Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America. Alvin Hall, financial educator, broadcaster and author of Driving the Green Book, will moderate this virtual conversation.

Registration required.

ONGOING AT THE LIBRARY
    
Summer in the City Art Exhibit
Main Library, DiMattia Building
Dudley N. Williams, Jr. Auditorium

The juried show, curated by the Stamford Art Association, features works by local and regional artists. On view through September 21.

We Can Help Your Book Club

Need a suggestion for your book group discussion or help locating copies? We're ready to support your book group with a variety of resources. The library has a well-curated book discussion collection, with multiple copies of each book. We can also get books for you if we don't have the title and share resources about how to have a successful book discussion. And of course, our readers advisory services can help you find your group's next great read.

For book group services, contact Anthony Marrocolla at [email protected].
    
Digital Navigators  

Do you need technology assistance? Have an issue with your laptop, or a new device that needs to be set up? The Ferguson Library’s Digital Navigators are here to help!

Digital Navigators operate by appointment only. Please call 203-351-8221 to set up and appointment.

By registering for programs, you may receive occasional emails about  upcoming events at the library. You can opt out at any time.

LIBRARY RESOURCES

Just finished reading an amazing book and don't know what to read next? Complete this form and a librarian will send you three suggestions based on your response. We will reply to your email within 24 hours.

Notary Services at the Library

Notary services are available on a walk-in basis at the Main Library Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays by appointment only. The notary desk at the Main Library is located in the lower level.

Notary services are available at the Harry Bennett and Weed Memorial & Hollander branches by appointment only. Call 203 351-8290.

Entrepreneurs-in Residence

Starting a new business? Looking to expand your current business? Have an idea and don't know where to start?
Our Entrepreneurs-in-Residence are available by appointment to help early stage entrepreneurs conceptualize and grow their ideas into companies. Book an appointment. For more information, call 203 351-8221.

Book-A-Librarian

Reserve up to one hour with a librarian for information or technology assistance, including assistance with our virtual resources like e-books, e-audiobooks and movie streaming. Complete this form to make an appointment.

IN THE COMMUNITY
    
Person-to-Person Mobile Food Pantry and Casework

Schedule subject to change

 - Yerwood Center - 90 Fairfield Avenue: Mondays from 11 a.m.– 1 p.m.

 - Stamford Manor - 26 Main Street: Mondays from 2 to 4 p.m.

 - Ferguson Library South End Branch - 34 Woodland Avenue: Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 - Quintard Manor - 18 Quintard Terrace: Tuesdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

 - DOMUS - 82 Lockwood Avenue: Wednesdays from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

 - Building One Community - 75 Selleck Street: Thursdays from 3 to 7 p.m.

 - DOMUS - 82 Lockwood Avenue (Subject to change): Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE: All clients must wear face masks inside P2P buildings and P2P on Wheels.
[More information]

Library Hours

Main Library, DiMattia Building
96 Broad Street, Stamford

Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.

Harry Bennett Branch
115 Vine Road, Stamford

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

South End Branch
34 Woodland Avenue, Stamford

Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10 am. to 2 p.m.

Weed Memorial & Hollander Branch
1143 Hope Street, Stamford

Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday 12 to 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.