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We’re going to Washington D.C. to accept a National Medal on June 12!

NHFPL is the proud winner of the 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for distinctive service to their communities. Nilda Aponte, NHFPL and Long Wharf Theatre (LWT) Community Ambassador from the Fair Haven Library neighborhood will join Martha Brogan, City Librarian and Shana Schneider, President of the NHFPL Board to accept the award in Washington DC. To learn more about NHFPL’s partnership program with the LWT and how Community Ambassador’s like Nilda bring live theater to our neighborhoods, watch our new video:

For those of you that want to cheer on NHFPL on June 12, stay tuned as the event will be live-streamed and you can watch at one of our libraries or from home!

There are many worthwhile causes to support, though few local organizations reach as many New Haven residents or offer the breadth of programs, services and resources as the New Haven Free Public Library. With over 850,000 in-person and online visits last year, the library is one of the most – if not the most – active cultural institutions in the City.

Through community engagement, inclusive growth, and equity of access to resources and opportunities, the New Haven Free Public Library builds connections as one city with one future. We could not be more proud of our work for New Haven, by New Haven, with New Haven! Your gift to the New Haven Free Public Library makes a difference

International Festival of Arts & Ideas Neighborhood Festivals!

Lively one-day neighborhood Festivals usher in the International Festival of Arts & Ideas in downtown New Haven. Community Steering Committees, local arts and business partners, and Festival staff and volunteers host local talent, family activities, and vendors in New Haven’s historic and culturally rich neighborhoods.

Fair Haven Neighborhood Festival | Celebrating Family

Saturday, May 25, 12-4 pm

Criscuolo Park | Chapel and James Streets

Celebrate with us for the 6th year. This year we will celebrate family in all of its forms. We invite you to enjoy with us food, local live music, bike activities, tours and more.

 

Celebra con nosotros para el 6°año. Este año lo haremos celebrar la familia en todos sus formas. Te invitamos a disfrutar con nosotros comida, música en vivo local, actividades de bicicleta, tours y más.

 

Dixwell Freddy Fixer Neighborhood Festival

Saturday, June 1, 12-5 pm

Scantlebury Park | 139 Ashmun Street

The Elm City Freddy Fixer Parade and International Festival of Arts & Ideas are collaborating with

New Haven Bike Month, Cornell Scott Hill Health Center, New Haven Free Public Library to celebrate the rich culture and history of the Dixwell neighborhood. Featuring live local entertainment, activities for children and adults, bike activities and more!

Learn more, visit artidea.org/neighborhood.

Meet Yale University’s New Haven Hiring Team

Wednesday, May 29, 6-7 pm | Ives

Tuesday, June 4, 4-5 pm | Mitchell

Tuesday, June 11, 6-7pm | Wilson

Thursday, June 20, 12:30-1:30 pm | Stetson

Thursday, June 27, 6-7 pm | Fair Haven

For over 300 years, Yale University has called New Haven home. Yale is committed to strengthening the foundation needed for economic growth in New Haven – by helping to build a solid, well-trained workforce. Currently, over 5,000 Yale staff members live and work in New Haven and the University has made an on-going commitment to hire New Haven residents. To help fulfill this commitment, representatives from Yale University will be visiting New Haven libraries to discuss the hiring process, share helpful tips and answer questions about working at Yale.

NEA Big Read New Haven

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

May-June | New Haven

The New Haven Free Public Library is partnering with the International Festival of Arts & Ideas, Gateway Community College and others for the 2019 Big Read selection, The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri with related free events offered throughout Greater New Haven. Learn more and see the full calendar!

Film Screening and Discussion with the Arts & Ideas Fellows

Thursday, May 30, 5:30 pm | Ives

The Namesake is the story of the Ganguli family whose move from Calcutta to New York evokes a lifelong balancing act to meld to a new world without forgetting the old. Although parents Ashoke and Ashima long for the family and culture that enveloped them in India, they take great pride in the opportunities their sacrifices have afforded their children. Paradoxically, their son Gogol is torn between finding his own unique identity without losing his heritage. Even Gogol’s name represents the family’s journey into the unknown.

Fair Haven Book Club

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

Monday, June 10, 2 pm | Fair Haven

Join us for a discussion of this year’s choice for the NEA Big Read! After moving from Calcutta to New York, members of the Ganguli family maintain a delicate balancing act between honoring the traditions of their native India and blending into American culture.

Creative Reuse with Marsha Borden:

T-Shirt Transformations!

Saturday, June 1, 2-4 pm | Mitchell

Turn those tacky t-shirts into wearable treasures. Marsha will show you how to make clever multi-strand necklaces and fancy fabric flowers with easy-to-follow demonstrations. Mix and match colors, textures and styles as you add your own creative touches to your project. No sewing skills required. Please bring your fabric scissors (if you have some) to the workshop, as well as plain or patterned t-shirts. T-shirts without logos work best, any colors (seamless a plus!). Marsha is an artist who loves to use upcycled items in her work.  Visit her website .

Yoga with Taylor Sykes-Williams

Saturdays, June 1 & 8, 3:30-4:30 pm | Stetson

Awaken both mind and body in this yoga series facilitated by registered yoga instructor, Taylor

Sykes-Williams. Beginners welcome.

Ladybug Release Party and Summer Reading Kick-Off

Monday, June 3, 6-7:30 pm | Mitchell

Join us for a release of live ladybugs to the gardens outside the library. Plant identification by Blockwatch 303 volunteers, ladybug arts & crafts by ArtEcon Initiative and the library, face painting, live reptiles from the Barnard Nature Center and more! Ladybug costumes encouraged! Event will be held rain or shine! 

How to Get a Job in Food Service or Bartending

Tuesday, June 11, 3, 4 or 5 pm | Mitchell 

Chief of Staff, LLC. is hiring banquet servers, bartenders, dishwashers, cooks, and prep cooks. Bring your resume and 2 forms of ID for an informational interview. 

Local History Room Tours

Wednesday, June 12, 12-1 pm | Ives

Learn about our print and digital collections, including books, documents, clippings files, maps, and photographs. Learn how to use the Library’s online history and genealogy resources: Ancestry, NewsBank, and America’s Historical Newspapers. Come with questions! Learn how to find what you are looking for. Hour introduction includes tour, hands-on practice, and Q&A. Register

The Story of You: A Memoir Writing Workshop

Wednesdays, June 12-July 3, 1-2:30 pm | Ives

In this month-long workshop hosted by Yale doctoral candidate Emily Ulrich, we will read several nonfiction essays as inspiration by writers including James Baldwin, Brent Staples, Joey Franklin, Leslie Jamison, Scott Russell Sanders, David James Duncan, George Orwell, and Fred Strebeigh. Participants will then develop their own 3-5 page personal essay or memoir. If you do not want to write, you may attend simply to read and discuss the essays! As class size limited, please register at [email protected] or (203) 946-8138.

International Festival of Arts & Ideas: Walking Tour of Ives Squared

Wednesday, June 19, 1:30 pm | Ives

Friday, June 21, 3 pm | Ives

As part of this year’s Festival, join us for a tour of Ives Squared. As an anchor institution in the Elm City Innovation Collaborative (ECIC), Ives Squared is designed to inspire and augment the vibrant civic and entrepreneurial culture of the New Haven community with the  Tinker Lab, a makerspace; the Exchange, for co-working, entrepreneurship, and small business development; the Switchboard, for in-person questions and information; and a café. Space is limited. Register

Meet La Borinqueña Comics Author Edgardo Miranda-Rodriguez

Saturday, June 22, 11 am | Fair Haven

Edgardo will talk about how growing up with a love of comic books gave light for his passion for social justice. He will address the humanitarian crisis affecting Puerto Rico via the current debt crisis and the recovery efforts after Hurricane Maria. Through his presentation, you’ll come to understand why he created La Borinqueña to help bring these issues to light and also create an icon for an underrepresented community that embodies cultural pride, power, and resilience like its people. After the talk there will be a chance to purchase a signed copy of your favorite La Borinqueña comics.

75th Anniversary of D-Day

Monday, June 24, 6 pm | Mitchell

A look back at the historic D-Day liberation of France and Europe and the ultimate defeat of the Nazi regime. Clips from the new film:  The Girl Who Wore Freedom will be shared. Presentation by Westville resident, veteran & author Don Johnson. 

Urban Life Experience Book Discussion Series 

Looking for Lorraine: The Radiant and Radical Life of Lorraine Hansberry by Imani Perry

Saturday, June 29, 12 pm | Wilson

Join the Urban Life Experience Book Discussion Series for the latest read. Discuss the biography of the celebrated playwright Lorraine Hansberry, author of the timeless play A Raisin in the Sun.

Download Free ebooks, Audiobooks Movies or Travel Guides for your Summer Vacation!

Saturday, June 29, 2-4 pm | Mitchell

Bring in your New Haven Free Public Library card and your Smartphone, iPad or favorite digital device and learn how to download great stuff for your summer travels.

Community Garden

Thursdays, 4 pm | Fair Haven 

Come help us care for our community garden! Whatever your age or ability we can use your help planting, watering, harvesting, weeding, etc. Thanks to you our garden will be even bigger this year! 

Summer Spanish Club

Thursdays, 4 pm | Mitchell

Read together, practice conversations and writing skills, watch telenovelas for ear training. Relaxed and fun club, led by a native Spanish speaker. Please call to register: 203-946-8117

Women’s Soccer World Cup 2019

June & July (days & times vary) | Fair Haven

The 8 ^th Women’s World Cup will be held from mid-June to mid-July in France. We’ll be airing as many live streams of matches as our schedule will allow. If your favorite team is playing, drop by or give us a call to check on our schedule. We’ll have light refreshments - you bring your friends and passion for the “Beautiful Game”. 

The Exchange offers an entrepreneurial and social space for collaboration and co-working on business, civic and community issues.

Speed Business Counseling  

Thursday, June 27, 1-3 pm  

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to get advice from the Women’s Business Development Council’s industry experts in marketing and business strategy. Come by for thirty-minute, one-on-one sessions with two of WBDC’s expert business advisors!  Register

 

Taproot Foundation Information Session  

Wednesday, June 26

11am Nonprofit Info Session  

12pm Community Networking   

1pm Corporate Community Impact Info Session  

Taproot helps nonprofits and social change organizations solve critical challenges in their communities with the support of skilled volunteers sharing their expertise pro bono. For companies and their employees, Taproot provides opportunities for pro bono service for an increasingly critical part of their community impact work. Join us for either information session and a community networking lunch. Registration required by June 24. 

 

Liberty Bank Academy for Small Business  

Select Tuesdays and Thursdays in May through June  

FREE series of classes to help small business owners feel confident about unleashing their earning potential. Liberty Bank is offering a $5,000 line of credit to qualifying small business owners who complete the program! Registration required.   Register and more information .

Collab at NHFPL!

Collab Office Hours | Ives

Thursdays, 3-5 pm

Fridays, 1:30-3:30 pm

Collab is a small business, nonprofit, and for-profit support program committed to serving Connecticut entrepreneurs. Get one-on-one advice about obtaining capital, mentorship, and other resources for entrepreneurs based in Connecticut. Register for an appointment .

Collab Courses: Business Plan 

Thursday, June 27, 6-7 pm 

A business plan is an important strategic tool for any entrepreneur. With a solid business plan, entrepreneurs can meet their objectives, receive funding from investors, and create a roadmap towards their vision. Business plans can feel intimidating and complex to complete. In this workshop, we will provide a high-level overview of the key components of the business plan to get you on your way! Register by June 21st and indicate if you will need childcare in order to attend. Register

Elmseed Office Hours

Saturdays, 10 am-12 pm

Drop-ins welcome!

Address your business questions and concerns with dedicated Yale student volunteers. Learn more.

Address your business questions and concerns with dedicated Yale student volunteers. Learn more .

Entrepreneur-in-Residence: Rick Callahan

 

Office Hours

Tuesdays 12-2 pm 

Wednesdays 6-8 pm  

Book an appointment

Meet Rick Callahan, our Entrepreneur-in-Residence! Rick is the founder and CEO of Krative – a branding, marketing, and design agency in the heart of downtown New Haven. He assists clients with strategically planning, designing, implementing creative solutions and more.

Entrepreneur Support Group  

Thursday, May 30, 12-1:30 pm  

Building something can be tough, but you can make the journey easier with a network. Come meet other entrepreneurs and create that support that will help yourself and others succeed. 

 

Register for all programs .

The Tinker Lab provides the training and tools for experimentation and an introduction to the world of creating and making, an essential element of the 21st century learner.

The Tinker Lab is for customers 18 years or older; customers ages 13 -17 may only use the machines if supervised by a Tinker Lab trained adult caregiver.

Tinker Lab Open Hours

Monday, 12-5:30 pm

Tuesday, 12-7:30 pm

Wednesday, 12-7:30 pm

Thursday, 12-7:30 pm

Friday, 12-4:30 pm

Saturday, 10-4:30 pm

 

Equipment Certification

3D Printer 

Tuesday, June 4, 6-7:30 pm 

Wednesday, June 19, 3-4:30 pm  

 

Vinyl Cutter

Wednesday, June 5, 3-4:30 pm 

Thursday, June 20, 6-7:30 pm  

 

Carvey

Tuesday, June 11, 6-7:30 pm 

Wednesday, June 26, 3-4:30 pm  

 

Laser Cutter

Wednesday, June 12, 3-4:30 pm  

Thursday, June 27, 6-7:30 pm 

Certificaciones en Español

Solo por cita.

Register online at nhfpl.org/ives-squared .

Graphic Design

Introduction to Adobe Photoshop

Monday, June 17, 6-7 pm  

 

Introduction to Adobe Illustrator

Tuesday, June 13, 6-7 pm

Register online at nhfpl.org/ives-squared .

Creative Programs

Sewing Club

Tuesday, June 25, 6-7:30 pm

Drop in and get creative!

Iris Fold Greeting Cards

Saturday, June 8, 2-3 pm  

 

Make a Book Safe

Monday, June 17, 12-1 pm

Register online at nhfpl.org/ives-squared

Creatives-in-Residence: Jacquelyn Gleisner and Ryan Paxton

 

Office Hours

Mondays, 6-8 pm

Saturdays, 12-2 pm

Book an appointment

   

Making Basic Circuit Boards 

Wednesday, May 29, 6-7:30 pm 

Learn how to make a basic circuit board using the Carvey CNC machine. 

Rhinoceros Tutorial 

Wednesday, June 5, 6 - 7:30 pm  

Learn the basics of the 3D modeling program, Rhinoceros, and about some of its many applications.  

 

Blender Basics 

Wednesday, June 12, 6 - 7:30 pm  

Learn the basics of Blender, a free and open-source 3D computer graphics software program.

POP: Poets on Poetry  

Pablo Neruda 

Saturday, June 8, 10:30 am | Ives

Join us for a morning reading and discussion of poetry with poets! Created in partnership with the CT Poetry Society.  

High Noon Jazz

Wednesdays, 12-2 pm

May 29 | Guitarist   Bruce Gregori

June 5 | TBD

Blue Plate Radio Entertainment brings New Haven jazz to G Café. Come to listen and enjoy a treat from G Café. Find all the events on Facebook!  

Ives Book Club

Books On Immigration

Thursday, June 27, 5:30 pm

Join us for our first inaugural Ives Book Club! Here’s how it works: each month we will have a theme and you are invited to read any book of your choosing that relates, then come ready to share a brief summary of your book! Join us for a conversation on immigration in June. We will be looking at the immigrant experience across different cultures and communities. If you need ideas of what to read, visit the library!

Film Screenings with Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ)

W.E.B. Du Bois: A Biography in Four Voices

(Parts 3 & 4)

Saturday, June 8, 2 pm | Wilson



The long and remarkable life of Dr. William Edward Burghardt (W.E.B) Du Bois (1868-1963) offers unique insights into an eventful century in African American history. Join us for this film screening and discussion presented with Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ).

Remembering Anne Frank 

Film Screening: Redemption Blues (2017; 84 min.) 

Wednesday, June 12, 5:30 pm | Ives

In commemoration of Anne Frank’s 90th birthday, join us for a screening of Redemption Blues, directed by Peter Stastny, about the thorny legacy of the Holocaust generation and the insights of some of its last survivors, followed by a conversation with the director.

Film Screenings with Project Longevity

Shift Change: Community Policing in

New Haven

Saturday, June 15, 2 pm | Wilson



Second chance to see the feature film of the 2019 NHdocs Film Festival and meet with director Steve Hamm. Nominated for the Audience Award for Best Feature Film.

So Many Ways to Enjoy NHFPL with Access from Anywhere!

No matter what you're in the mood for, we offer  digital content  that will brighten your holidays. Read books and magazines, listen to music, or watch TV and movies. All just a download away. 

 

Adae Fine Art Academy Student Exhibition 2019

Works by Adae Fine Art Academy Students

May 18 - July 12, 2019 | Ives

Opening Reception: May 29, 5:30-7 pm

This exhibit we will be showcasing artwork executed by Adae Fine Art Academy artists in the past year.

Discovering New Haven

Photography by Robert Silverstein

May 6 – August 31

Bob Silverstein is a New Haven based photographer whose work focuses on landscape and architectural subjects. In addition, as a volunteer with food assistance organizations in Virginia and New Haven, he has photographed many charity events and clients receiving food services. Though Bob is mostly

self-taught, he enjoys going to photography workshops to gain additional knowledge and inspiration.

Meet NHFPL Staff Member: Tom Costa   

Tom Costa completed his undergraduate studies at New York University in Manhattan, with a focus on Latin American and Social Studies. Shortly afterwards, his interest in libraries was sparked by an overseas assignment as a librarian during a European tour with the U.S. Navy. Following graduate school and prior to joining the New Haven Free Public Library, Tom worked as a librarian at both academic and public libraries, including Western Connecticut State University, Gateway Community College and the Silas Bronson Library in Waterbury.

What is your role at the New Haven Free Public Library?

Most often, my role is that of a reference librarian, providing brief information as well as more in-depth research and reports. Programming and outreach to groups such as Gateway students and the seniors at Atwater Senior Center in New Haven are also among my various roles. In addition, I assist in coordinating the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program at NHFPL each year, which offers free tax help to those in need. 

 

What do you enjoy most about working at NHFPL?

I enjoy facilitating the work of partner organizations and programs at NHFPL, such as the U.S. Census team and the VITA income tax group, as this provides access to library patrons to expanded resources. I have even had the pleasure of assisting both major and minor film directors, such as director Robert DeNiro and his team – those often needing research work done for their upcoming film production

What book are you currently reading or is on your nightstand waiting to be explored?

This spring I’m focused on reading international studies, including Upheaval: Turning Points for Nations in Crisis by Jared Diamond (Find it!). I am also reading a book on finance, The Power of Zero by David McKnight, an updated version of how taxes impact finances and how the 2018/2019 new federal tax laws affect individual Americans.

Coming Attractions

Show Me How:

Learn How to Declutter and Organize your Space and Life!

Monday, July 1, 6 pm | Mitchell 

Elaine Turek, the Declutter Specialist, offers tips to help you take control of your surroundings. Learn to organize your home, apartment or office for maximum efficiency, stage your home for sale, and more!

Beecher Park Concert Series

Mondays, July 8,15,22, 29, & August 5, 6:30 pm | Beecher Park by Mitchell Library

The Beecher Park Summer Concert Series is held on the lawn of Mitchell Library. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on and enjoy a variety of musical performances with a beautiful West Rock backdrop. Sponsored by the Westville Village Renaissance Alliance. (Concerts cancelled if raining.)

Film Screenings with Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ)

Knock Down the House 

Monday, July 8, 3:30 pm | Mitchell

Go Behind the scenes as four determined women challenge big money politicians in the 2018 race for congress. Featuring Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Cori Bush, Paula Jean Swearingen, & Amy Vilela. Join us for the film and discussion.

Becoming Astrid (2018)

Saturday, July 13, 2 pm | Mitchell

Join us for this film screening and discussion of Becoming Astrid. Film focuses on the early years of Swedish children's author Astrid Lindgren. (Author of Pippi Longstocking and many more books!). In Swedish & Danish with English subtitles. * Not recommended for children, adult content!  

Community Events

NHdocs

May 30-June 9

Whitney Humanities Center at Yale | Ives Main Library | Café Nine

Admission is free. Full schedule of captivating array of new films to be announced at ww.NHdocs.com . 

Long Wharf Theatre to present The New Haven Play Project

Survivors

Friday, June 28, 7 pm | Long Wharf Theatre

Survivors of Society Rising Ensemble in partnership with Connecticut Mental Health Center Foundation

 

Elders & Newcomers

Sunday, June 30, 2 pm | Long Wharf Theatre

In partnership with The Towers and Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services (IRIS)

 

Long Wharf Theatre is proud to present the New Haven Play Project. This initiative is a dynamic partnership with organizations committed to serving the community of New Haven including Connecticut Mental Health Center & Foundation, The Towers, Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services (IRIS), and the New Haven Free Public Library. Tickets to the New Haven Play Project are $20 and available on a sliding scale. To purchase tickets, visit www.longwharf.org/new-haven-play-project or call the LWT box office at (203) 787-4282. Free passes will be available at every branch of the New Haven Free Public Library for New Haven library cardholders on a first come, first served basis.

Regional Initiative (REGI) Grant Program

Applications Due:

Saturday, June 1 by 11:59 pm

The Regional Initiative (REGI) grant program encourages and supports small arts projects that are relevant to a community’s current society, culture and trends. REGI is a good fit for applicants that have a small arts-based project that targets a specific community matter, reflects on personal experience(s), and/or brings neighborhoods together. Grants must be aligned with the Connecticut Office of the Arts' READI framework, and range between $1,000 to $4,000. Eligible applications go through a panel review process and decisions are based on available funding. Learn more!