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Sometimes things change...
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Take a look at the rest of our fabulous March lineup, which includes a talk about hidden gems of Connecticut and a day of Celtic celebration:
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 Adult Programs & Events
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Shoreline Greenway Trail Informational Meeting
 2 PM -- Sunday, March 2 (rescheduled from February 15) The Branford Team of the Shoreline Greenway Trail will hold a Town Meeting for all Branford citizens to hear about the progress they are making in Branford and other towns. Citizens are invited to share their thoughts about what they want from this bike and pedestrian greenway trail, and to offer advice as the SGT team moves forward. Light refreshments will be served.  |
 Free Tax Preparation Assistance By appointment only -- Mondays & Thursdays We are thrilled to offer free tax preparation assistance thanks to the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. We have volunteers here Mondays and Thursdays, now through April, who can help middle- and low-income taxpayers prepare their taxes! Call Reference to schedule your appointment today! 203.488.1441, ext. 318  |
 Yoga Class with Nelie Doak 5 PM -- Mondays Start the week off right with our Monday yoga classes! Nelie Doak leads an evening yoga class on Mondays at 5 PM. Cost is $10 per class; please bring your own yoga mat. For more information, please contact Nelie Doak at yogidoakie@earthlink.net. Photo credit: Flickr/myyogaonline |
 Tech Tuesdays By appointment only -- Tuesdays Have questions about email, eReaders, iPads, and other technology?
We can help! Tech Tuesdays are one-on-one sessions with a librarian where you can get individual help with a technology-related question. Call to schedule an appointment today!
203.488.1441, ext. 318
Please note: this is a technology learning service. We cannot troubleshoot or help with malfunctioning computers or devices.
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The Affordable Health Care Act: What you need to know
2 PM -- Wednesday, March 5 (rescheduled from February 18)
Health Care Reform is the law. Starting in October 2013, Connecticut residents will be able to purchase health care insurance from the 'exchange.' Presented by Randi Oster, a leading speaker on Health Care Reform. She'll be here to explain to you how it all works and what you need to do.
Get answers to questions like these:
- What are the top 10 changes I need to know about?
- When is all this taking place?
- Will I qualify for health insurance premium subsidies?
- Does my business have to offer me insurance?
- What happens if I am already covered?
- Will my Medicare deduction change?
- How do I know which is the best hospital in my area?
- How can I stay current?
Plus much more!
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Mystery Book Club 
3 PM -- Wednesday, March 5
The Mystery Book Club meets on the first Wednesday of every month. This month's book is Hunting Shadows by Charles Todd. For information call Maryann Hall at 203.488.1536.
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Apps, iPad & Tablet Tips 'n Tricks
6 PM -- Wednesday, March 5
 Get a new iPad, Windows, or Android tablet for the holidays? If you have questions or want learn some great apps to download, stop by our Tips 'n Tricks open forum! We'll have iPads on hand for you to try out, or you can bring your own. Share what you know with others and find out some of the best apps to get your hands on. Free and open to the public. Space is limited, so registration for this program is required. |
 Knitting Group 6 PM -- Wednesdays The Blackstone Knitting and Crocheting Group meets at the library every week. This informal gathering is for knitters, crocheters, and other fiber craftspeople of all ages and abilities. First-time knitters welcome; coaches available. Free and open to the public. |
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VNA Blood Pressure Clinic
12 PM - 1 PM -- Thursday, March 6
Take advantage of this free walk-in blood pressure clinic. A nurse will be available to check your blood pressure and answer your questions. Free community health screenings are provided thanks to generous community support. No reservations required. Clinic will take place in the Lucy Hammer Room. Free and open to the public. Please contact VNA Community Healthcare at 203.458.4200 or ConnecticutHomecare.org for details and other locations.
Photo credit: Flickr/UrbaneWomenMag
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 Folk Singer Debra Cowan
7:30 PM -- Friday, March 7
With a voice that blends Celtic and Appalachian styles, Debra Cowan performs a cappella and with guitar, interpreting a wide range of traditional and contemporary folk songs. Based in Massachusetts, Debra tours extensively in North America and the United Kingdom. Her performances gives listeners old and new story-songs reflecting the human experiences, all the while encouraging the audience to join in on choruses and refrains. Debra's performances impress listeners with her clarity, warmth, agility, and respect for the words and melodies she offers. Free and open to the public.
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 Inner Peace & Wellness: Understanding Transcendental Meditation
3 PM -- Saturday, March 8
Join us for an intro to Transcendental Meditation, a simple, natural, effortless procedure practiced 20 minutes twice each day while sitting comfortably with the eyes closed. It's not a religion, philosophy, or lifestyle. Richard and Gail Dalby, who are among the most experienced TM instructors in the country, will introduce you to the benefits of TM practice and survey the research which shows increased mental potential, better health and improved relationships.
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Second Tuesday Book Club 
6:15 PM -- Tuesday, March 11
New members are welcome. Books available for loan in advance of the discussion. Group meets in the Lucy Hammer Room the second Tuesday of each month. This month's selection is: The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer.
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Menunkatuck Audubon Society presents:
David Allen Sibley, Book Talk & Signing
7 PM -- Wednesday, March 12
The publication of The Sibley Guide to Birds in 2000 quickly established David Allen Sibley as the author and illustrator of the nation's supreme and most comprehensive guide to birds. The Sibley Guide to Birds, Second Edition, will be released on March 11 and David Sibley will introduce it to us in his first post-publication appearance, sponsored by Menunkatuck Audubon and the Audubon Shop. After David's presentation, copies of the book will be available for purchase and he will conduct a book signing. To preorder your copy of the book, please call The Audubon Shop 203-245-9056.
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The Softer Side of Celtic: Concert by Jeff Snow
2 PM -- Saturday, March 15
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a free Celtic music concert! Jeff Snow is a talented musician who will play a variety of Celtic songs and ballads, and will share the history and stories behind the songs. He's sure to have you smiling, singing, and laughing along. Perfect for the whole family!
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 Presented by Aid for Orphans Relief Foundation Notes for Kids: Concert by Yale School of Music String Trio 1:30 PM -- Sunday, March 16 Aid for Orphans presents Notes for Kids, a free concert by Yale School of Music String Trio. Aid for Orphans Relief Foundation provides medication and wellness supplies to orphans and children at risk in Appalachia, Africa, Eastern Europe and Connecticut. Free and open to the public. |
Eating Disorders and Body Image Despair
6 PM -- Tuesday, March 18
Dr. Margo Maine, author of The Body Myth: Adult Women and the Pressure to Be Perfect, the first book to address eating disorders at and beyond midlife, will discuss the many contributing factors, the unique characteristics and needs of adults, and the importance of identifying the problem and accessing care.
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5:30 PM -- Wednesday, March 19
MS Support Group meets on the 3rd Wednesdays of the month. New members welcomed. For information contact Cheryl Horner at 203.535.3053.
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 Game Night ... for Adults! 5:30 PM -- Wednesday, March 19
Looking for free, fun indoor activities this winter? Join us to play great games, meet new people, and enjoy free refreshments at the library! We'll have classic and new board games and card games to choose from, including Cranium, Chess, Scrabble, Cribbage, and more.
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 Ask A Lawyer: Free Legal Consultation
3:30 PM -- Thursday, March 20
Meet with a lawyer for free! Lawyers will be here for a 2-hour period ready to consult with you. They offer free 15-minute consultations in the privacy of the Lucy Hammer Room on the main floor. No advance sign-ups; register upon arrival. Provided as a public service by the members of the New Haven County Bar Association.
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Off the Beaten Path Connecticut
Book Talk and Signing
6:00 PM -- Tuesday, March 25
Off the Beaten Path Connecticut features the things travelers and locals want to see and experience--if only they knew about them. From the best in local dining to quirky cultural tidbits to hidden attractions, unique finds, and unusual locales, this book takes the reader down the road less traveled and reveals a side of Connecticut that other guidebooks just don't offer. Author Cindi Pietrzyk will share tidbits from her book and help you find some hidden gems of Connecticut. Free and open to the public. Copies will be available for signing. Register today!
Click here to register!
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Presented by Branford Land Trust
Bees, Bees, Bees
7 PM -- Wednesday, March 26
Kimberly Stoner from the CT Agricultural Experiment Station will give a fascinating talk about the importance of variety of bees as pollinators. Many people are not aware how much pollination, even of crop plants, is done by native bees, particularly bumble bees, and that the species diversity of bumbles bees has decreased significantly in just the last 15 years.
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 CT Works for Job Seekers
10 AM -- Thursday, March 27
This networking group, led by CT Works, is an opportunity for you to make connections, talk about what's worked for you and what hasn't, and workshop ideas for moving forward.
Click here to register!
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 Handwriting Analysis with Pamela LaRegina
3:30 PM -- Saturday, March 29
Pamela LaRegina, professional artist and calligrapher from Branford will be here to analyze your handwriting. Pamela's 40 years of passion for the alphabet has led her to explore both graphology and graphotherapy (making use of handwriting to change personal behavior), and she is eager to share her knowledge in an entertaining, hands-on demonstration that encourages audience participation.
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Presented by the Friends of the Blackstone Library
The Hofners, Beatles Legend Band
2:00 PM -- Sunday, March 30
Join us for a free concert with The Hofners, an incredible Beatles tribute band. Relive the music, the memories and the magic of John, Paul, George and Ringo with note-for-note renditions of The Beatles' most beloved classics. Enjoy the greatest songs of the sensational 60s performed in replica costumes with the exact instrumentation.
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 Opera Appreciation: The Lost Art of Letter Writing
7 PM -- Monday, March 31
Charlotte D'Aniello hosts Opera Appreciation, a lively look at the world of opera featuring a lecture and video. This month's topic is The Lost Art of Letter Writing. Free and open to the public. $5 donation suggested.
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| Teen Programs & Events |
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TeenSpace in the Auditorium
2 - 5 PM -- Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays
School lets out and what is there to do? Head over to the Blackstone Library! We're opening up the auditorium to create some much needed space for teens after school. We have a variety of crafts and games available, plus tables for studying...
It's your time, your space - what are you going to do?
| paper crafts | drawing | knitting/crocheting | | play board games | study - alone or in groups | play on iPads |
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... it's up to you!
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Tech Take-Apart 
4 - 5 PM -- Monday, March 10 -- Session I
4 - 5 PM -- Tuesday, March 11 -- Session II
4 - 8 PM -- Wednesday, March 12 -- Session III
Ever wondered what the inside of a computer looks like? Here's your chance to take one apart and see!
SESSION I: Join Miss Katy and Miss Carly for our Teen Tech Week Program that marries broken or used electronics with tools and your ideas! Head to the Lucy Hammer room for a TECH TAKEAPART session on Monday March 10. We'll have some small appliances and devices, as well as tools to pry them open - you can unscrew, pop open, and see what's inside!
SESSION II: Then, come back the next day (March 11) for a PUT-TOGETHER session. What can you build from all the pieces? A robot? A castle? See what you come up with!
SESSION III: Can't make either session? Come on Wednesday, March 12, anytime in the evening to take-apart and put-together whatever you can! Spend an hour, spend the evening! Registration for this program is required so that we can plan accordingly.
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Teen Advisory Board Meeting
The Teen Advisory Board is for all teens (ages 12-19) who want to have a voice in the library. Join Miss Carly and Miss Katy for this monthly meeting and help plan and run programs at the library, suggest books and movies that you want the library to purchase, and more! Snacks provided and earn community service hours for attending! New members always welcome!
Help make the Blackstone the place where you belong!
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Tech This Out
4 PM -- Tuesday, March 18
Join us once a month to experience a combination of tech filled activities. Sometimes we will be manipulating games or cool websites on PCs. Other times we will be testing apps that will allow you to create virtually. Either way, it will be 100% hands-on and a great way for you to experience technology in a variety of formats. Registration for this program is required!
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Reading Rant 
Tweens, join us at the Blackstone Memorial Library for some good reads, conversations, and plenty of snacks! Students in 5th and 6th grade are invited to take part in our informal book club that meets once a month. So, if you like reading, have an opinion, and are looking for something new sign up today!
This month's book can be found in the Youth Services Department and is ready to be checked out. Registration for this program is required so we know how many copies of the book to provide.
Call today to register: 203.488.1441, ext. 323.
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| Children's Programs |
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 Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!
Join the Blackstone Library in a salute to Dr. Seuss as we throw him a birthday party! Traditional storyhour movement activities, songs and rhymes along with one of our favorite Dr. Seuss books. Then we will head straight into a variety of crafts and will then end the event with some animal crackers, juice and a Cat in the Hat short. Great for all ages!
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Tablet Tales (ages 3-5)
2:30 PM -- Monday, March 3
Join Miss Carly the first Monday of every month to take part in a traditional storytime that includes a technological twist! During the hour children and caregivers will take part in our usual storytime filled with songs, rhymes, books and fingerplays! We will then boost up the level of technology by giving every child and caregiver an iPad so that they can explore apps one on one or as a group based on each month's theme. Registration for this program is required so that we can be prepared tablet wise!
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Math Matters: Stories and Activities (grades K-2)
6 PM -- Tuesday, March 11
Join Miss Carly the second Tuesday of every month for a mathematical filled storytime! Participants will take part in a traditional storyhour with stories, music and rhymes but each month we will focus on a different mathematical concept like: counting, shapes and sequencing. We will close out the hour with a hands-on mathematical activity.
Registration for this program is required so that we can be prepared with activities!
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We Create: Storybook Art (K-4) 
4 PM -- Thursday, March 13
Join us every month for a different hands on craft that brings various authors work to life! Each month participants will come face to face with a different author and some of their favorite books. Participants will hear stories, discuss and then create different pieces of art based on the books' themes or illustrator's techniques. All the materials for this craft will be provided; space is limited so registration is required.
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St. Patrick's Celebration with Liz McNicoll 
11 AM -- Saturday, March 15
Join Music Together teacher Liz McNicholl for a late morning filled with St. Patrick's Day cheer! In this interactive program families will come together to hear live Irish tunes, some traditional folklore and try their hand at some Irish Dancing steps.
The celebration continues at 2 PM with a Celtic concert by musician Jeff Snow! Jeff will sing, play, and tell you the stories behind the ballads. A great day of St. Patrick's celebration for the whole family!
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Book Clubs for Various Ages 
Blackstone Library Youth Services offers book clubs for children in grades 1-4. All books are available at Youth Services - call with any questions! 203.488.1441, ext 323.
"Bookworms" is for Students in 3rd and 4th grade - they are invited to take part in our informal book club that meets once a month. Click here to register for the March 19th session at 4 PM.
"Book Buddies" is for those in 1st through 3rd grade, which is perfect for those that are still reading with their parents OR for those that are interested in tackling beginning chapter books on their own. Click here to register for the March 21st session at 4 PM.
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 Mermaid Tears by Madelyn Kavanaugh
11 AM -- Saturday, March 15
Madelyn Kavanaugh, a Branford grandmother, is headed to the Blackstone on the school's half day to share her self published book, Mermaid Tears, that has been years in the making. Inspired by her many walks on the beach and the vision of children endlessly searching for seaglass her book tells the story of Mermaid Island and the creation of the very glass we cannot get enough of.
This program is meant for those in PreK thru 2nd grade and registration is not required. Questions for the author about her work or the story are welcome.
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Munchies and a Matin�e
12 PM -- Saturday, March 29
Take a movie break this Saturday at the Blackstone! Come watch "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2" on our large projection screen. Enjoy free admission and snacks, and a place to get warm!
* Feel free to bring your own snacks or a bag lunch.
* Rated PG for mild action and rude humor.
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Tuesdays
Stories for 2s
10:00 AM
Wednesdays
Stories and Music for Babies - up to 23 months
10:00 AM and 10:45 AM
Thursdays
PJ Stories for Babies - up to age 5
6:30 PM
Fridays
Stay and Play - babies thru age 5
11:00 AM to Noon
Saturdays Make It and Take It Craft for All Ages
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Interested in more Blackstone Library events and book groups tailored for kids in different age groups? Check out the Youth Services page for more information.
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