MAURY LOONTJENS MEMORIAL LIBRARY

401-789-9507 | narlib.org

Library Hours


Monday- Thursday 9:30am-8:00pm

Friday 9:30am-6:00pm

Saturdays 9:30-5:00pm

Sundays 12-4

Closed Monday Oct 13 for Indigenous Peoples/Columbus Day

Library News & Updates

Hi there! My name is Jared Jacavone, and I am honored to join the Maury Loontjens Memorial 

Library as its next Director.  

 

Like many Rhode Islanders, some of my favorite childhood memories took place in 

Narragansett. From wrapping up a day at Scarborough Beach with clam cakes, chowder, and 

doughboys from Iggy’s to enjoying celebrations at the Coast Guard House and getting the Block 

Island Ferry jingle stuck in my head, Summer was never complete without a visit to these shores.  

 

While studying history at Providence College and earning my master’s degrees from URI, I had 

the opportunity to learn more about Narragansett’s founding and development. I am excited to 

serve such a vibrant, deeply-rooted community, and to bring my experience from leading 

libraries in North Carolina and Connecticut back to my home state.  

 

On the personal side, my wife and I are major nerds who enjoy learning history, reading, and 

watching movies with our three highly opinionated cats. If you’re looking for science fiction and 

non-fiction recommendations, I’m your guy! I’m also a fan of H. P. Lovecraft and Stephen King, 

so I’m always happy to discuss cosmic horror, mythology, and fictional world building.  

 

Once again, I am honored to serve as your next Library Director, and I look forward to seeing 

you soon!  Please join us at the library on October 6 at 2pm to meet Jared.



Special Events

Art on Display

Tempestry Project

The Tempestry Project is personal and collaborative fiber art, environmental awareness, and climate activism via data representation all rolled into a sprawling community of friends, artists, crafters, teachers, scientists, activists, nature lovers, and more.


Better Grocery Store Options with Sheryl

Wednesday, October 1 - 3pm


Healthy Eating and Navigating the Grocery Store

Making choices to support your physical, and financial well- being

Review ‘MyPlate’ and the major food groups

• Discuss ways to plan and effectively grocery shop

• Learn about a community resources and nutrition programming 



Registration

Ethical Use of AI with URI AI Lab

Friday October 3 - 2:30pm


Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming the creative landscape in this engaging presentation. From generating art and music to enhancing storytelling and design, we’ll explore a range of accessible AI tools that empower anyone to create. Whether you're an artist, hobbyist, or just curious, you'll gain practical insights into how AI can amplify imagination, spark new ideas, and redefine what’s possible in creative expression. We will explore how AI can be ethically and purposefully applied, not only to address pressing societal challenges like education, healthcare, and equity, but also to empower individuals through creative expression. Alongside these innovations, we’ll examine key ethical principles like fairness, transparency, and accountability that must guide AI’s development and use.


Registration

How Color Affects Choice with Nora

Wednesday, October 8 - 5pm


In this interactive presentation we will look at how colors influence what we buy. Every successful brand from Amazon to Walmart understands this fundamental aspect of consumer psychology. We will uncover the subtle messages delivered through a brand’s colors and look at how signage relies on color to attract attention. Come and see how color can make you 20% more likely to choose a particular product! 



Registration


Speed Reading with Prof. Nancy Shuster

Thursday, October 9 - 1:30pm

Thursday, October 16 -1:30pm

Thursday, October 23 -1:30pm


Double or triple your reading rate with good comprehension. Students will use books of their choice to learn how to preview, skim and scan the materials. Speed Reading allows you to learn strategies to save time reading. There will be three one hour classes. Students need to register and bring some reading that they select. To begin, select easy content with large print. 

Any questions, contact Prof. Shuster at Nshu4@aol.com.



Registration

Drop In with Lynn

Thursday, October 9 -4:00pm


Bring a project you are currently working on, or learn to sew on a beginning project that will be provided. Lynn from Time to Design will be on hand to help or answer questions.



Author Visit: Jamie Coelho with RI Monthly and RI Food Crawls

Saturday, October 11- 12pm

Rhode Island Food Crawls is an exciting culinary tour through the Ocean State. Discover hidden 

gems with the freshest seafood, hottest cocktail bars, and the best seaside views around. Each 

crawl is the complete recipe for a great night out, the perfect tourist day, a new way to experience 

your own city, or simply indulging in some eye candy from home. Head to Dolores in Providence

 for brunch, get weird at Warren’s Water Street, and hit South County for oysters, wine, and ocean views. Put on your walking shoes and your stretchy pants, and dig into Rhode Island one dish at a

 time. 

Jamie Coelho is editor in chief at Rhode Island Monthly magazine, where she has written about

 food and drink, fashion and other lifestyle topics in the Ocean State for the past eleven years. She previously worked at Men’s Health magazine, Boston magazine and AAA Publications, and has

 been published in the Boston Globe Magazine and Yankee


Registration


Dennis Hilliard with the URI Crime Lab

Tuesday, October 14 - 1:00pm

Dennis Hilliard has worked in the forensic field since 1980. He is director of the Rhode Island State Crime Laboratory and an adjunct professor of biomedical sciences in the URI College of Pharmacy. In addition to administration of the crime lab, his work includes analysis of evidence and court testimony related to analyses of fire debris, hair and fiber, DNA, and blood alcohol. He holds a B.S. in biochemistry from the University of New Hampshire, an M.S. in pharmacology and toxicology from URI, and has taken University of Virginia accredited courses offered at the FBI academy in Quantico, Virginia. He is a member of several professional forensic organizations and is past president of the North Eastern Association of Forensic Scientists (NEAFS).


Registration

Putting the Garden to Bed with URI Master Gardeners

Wednesday, October 15 - 1pm


 October is often the month we “put our gardens to bed” As the growing season comes to end, it is helpful to clean and put your garden to bed for the winter. A good fall cleanup provides multiple benefits for gardeners – it reduces weed populations and disease, minimizes plant insect pests, prevents rodent infestation, and eases the workload for next year’s spring planting.




Registration


Author Talk: Edward McSweegan

Wednesday, October 15 - 2:30pm



Local author Edward McSweegan discusses his three books, debut historical novel, Shadow of the Moon, second novel The Fever Hut, and most recent, The Cottage Industry.


Registration

Chair movement with Sheryl

Tuesday, October 14 - 10:30am

Saturday, October 25- 10:30am

In this class you will:

  • Improve your flexibility, balance, & strength
  • Learn simple breathing strategies to relax your mind & body
  • Practice a guided relaxation body scan/meditation at the end of each class




Tuesday Oct 14 Registration

Saturday October 25 Registration

RI Pirates with Luca the Pirate Guy

Thursday, October 16- 6pm

This presentation explains the history of the pirates and pirate hunters of Rhode Island during the Golden Age of Piracy. Topics discussed are why people became pirates, how pirate ships were run, weapons and tactics used, politics of the pirates, the government, and of the colonies, as well as how piracy ended. Welcome aboard as we discuss this hidden part of Rhode Island's history!


Registration


Wildlife Rehab with Wildlife Clinic RI

Monday, October 20 - 1pm


This is an educational presentation that follows the informative journeys of our wild patients through every stage of care at the Wildlife Clinic RI, from the initial rescue and intake process to medical treatment and rehabilitation, and finally, to release back into the wild. The presentation highlights the Clinic’s mission, showcases real patient stories, ways to mitigate and co exist with wildlife, common causes of admission and provides insight into the critical role of wildlife rehabilitation in supporting healthy ecosystems.



Registration

Reducing Food Waste with Charlotte

Wednesday, October 22 - 1pm


Reducing food waste and composting at home are two of the most effective ways to reduce your climate impact on an individual level. This presentation will review tips and recipes for reducing food waste (and saving money!) and how to start composting at home.



Registration

Story of Wampum with Tomaquag Museum

Wednesday, October 22 - 6pm (rescheduled from 9/17)


The history of Wampum told by the Tomaquag Museum. Wampumpeage: Traditions and Continuance Wampumpeage, meaning “white shell beads” in the Narragansett language, reflects both artistry and tradition. Fashioned from quahog, whelk, and other local shells, wampum carries a story deeper than beads. While misrepresented in colonial records as money, to the Narragansett and other local Tribal Nations, it embodies connection, identity, and meaning. Learn more about its history and living presence with a Tomaquag Museum Educator.



Registration

Author Talk with Christa Carmen with Wakefield Books

Thursday, October 23 - 6pm


In How to Fake a Haunting, a desperate woman’s plot to frighten her husband out of her life takes a nightmarish turn in a chilling novel of modern horror. Christa will discuss her new novel, and take questions from the audience, and will be available to sign books. Copies of How to Fake a Haunting, Beneath the Poet's House, and Daughters of Block Island will be available for purchase. Christa Carmen is a winner of the Bram Stoker Award and a Shirley Jackson Award finalist. She has a BA from the University of Pennsylvania, an MA from Boston College, and an MFA from the University of Southern Maine. Most of her work comes from gazing upon the ghosts of the past or else into the dark corners of nature.



Registration

Cook Book Club

Thursday, October 23 - 6pm


Dine and discuss this month's selection-Soups and Breads. Please add your recipe here. Registration required.


Registration



Drop In Craft

Friday, October 24 - 4pm


Join Lee-Ann in making a fall suncatcher. No registration required



Narragansett Historical Society Speaker Series

Wednesday, October 29 - 6:30pm


Presented by Brian Wallin. By the 1870’s, Narragansett Pier was firmly established as a summer resort. At first, it was a vacation spot for people of means, but by the turn of the century, it became a popular daytime destination for residents of Providence and other communities, thanks largely to the scenic and affordable Seaview Trolley Company that ran from East Greenwich down to the Pier. The line also carried freight and the products of local farmers. There were grandiose plans to run the line into Wakefield, but the line ran smack into the competing Narragansett Pier Railroad right in the middle of the town’s Main Street. The omnivorous New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad, which had been assembling a transportation monopoly in New England also threw a curve ball at the Seaview, with a surprise alternative service. Sadly, tracked trolleys in Rhode Island fell victim to the arrival of the automobile age after World War One. By 1920, the Seaview would be bankrupt, its tracks torn up and sold for scrap. Today, its only visible remains are the power lines along the right of way, now under control of Rhode Islands Energy. This well-illustrated tale takes a ride on the Seaview, with some detours to share stories of the people and places that made the line so popular in its heyday. 



Registration


3d Printing Workshop

Wednesday, October 29 - 3pm


 Learn how to operate and use a 3D printer, while answering any questions you may have about the technology. The class will culminate in 3D printing something that you can take home with you.

Seats are limited, registration is required, and materials are provided.




Registration

Fae Rosenthal Celebration of the Arts Events

Halloween Barbie Drawing with Corrinne

Saturday, October 4 - 11am



For fans of Barbie (or all fashion dolls) or just a fashionista at heart, come join us for a drawing adventure! First a fashion show of dolls, Barbies and Monster Highs, featuring clothes from the early 60's till now. Then you can design your idea for a Barbie Halloween costume or outfit for any Halloween activity. Barbie and Monster High templates will be provided along with a few already designed costumes if you prefer just to color. (Art materials are also provided.) No worries, relax and enjoy the show!

Bring your own favorite fashion doll to show the class. There will be prizes, surprises, trivia, and a refreshing Halloween punch for everyone.

Space is limited



Registration

Lighthouse Painting with Lisa F.

Wednesday, October 15 - 5:30pm


Join local artist Lisa Ferrucci in painting a lighthouse scene.

Space is limited



Registration

Paint Your Pet with Sue Greco

Friday, October 17- 3:00pm



Paint Your Pet with Sue Greco. Please send a picture of your pet to the number in the registration email.

Space is Limited


Registration

Monthly Events

Walking Club

Friday, October 3 - 10am

Friday, October 17 - 10am



Get your steps in and join us at the South County Bike Path! The group will meet at the entrance next to the Narragansett Community Center. In the event of inclement weather the walk will be cancelled.


Registration: October 3

Registration October 17

Monthly Meditation

Thursday, October 9- 6:30pm


These classes will teach "Inner Light Meditation" which is an ancient and powerful technique designed to elevate the consciousness and increase our awareness of our true inner self; that is not our body nor our mind. There are no restrictions on age, health status, fitness or flexibility. The classes will be taught by students of Inner light meditation with years of experience. All are welcome. Registration is required. 


Registration

Gentle Yoga with Pam

Saturday, October 11 -10am

Settle into your body and connect with inner wisdom in this slow, soothing flow. Get a little bit of everything as you release tension, cultivate flexibility, and nourish your mind in various poses.


Registration

Genealogy Club

Monday, October 20 - 6pm


Have you wanted to start searching for your ancestors but didn't know where to start? The Genealogy group meets at the library once a month and new members are always welcome! The group is made up of family historians interested in sharing resources and tips to accurately find their ancestors while helping others with their search.


No registration required.

Meditation with Susan Peck

Thursday, October 23 - 2pm


Join Susan Peck in a relaxing meditation practice. Please note new time.


Registration


Monthly Movie - Nosferatu

Tuesday October 28 2pm and 5:30pm


2024 R 132 mins

Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu is a gothic tale of obsession between a haunted young woman and the terrifying vampire infatuated with her, causing untold horror in its wake. 2025 Oscar Nominee



No registration required.


Adult Book Clubs

Morning Book Talk

Monday, October 27- 10:30am

Join us for coffee and chat about what you're reading!

A great way to get new book suggestions from others.

Afternoon

Wednesday,

October 8 - 1:00pm



This month we are reading Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman. Copies are available at the Circulation Desk.

Evening

Wednesday,

October 22 - 6:30pm


This month we'll be reading the second half of

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Copies are available at the Circulation Desk.

Youth Services and Makerspace

To sign up for the youth services newsletter click here

To sign up for the makerspace newsletter click here

Appliques on Hoodies with Lynn (ages 12-18)

Thursday, October 16 -4:00pm



Lynn Murphy from Time to Design RI will be coming in on October 16th from 4 - 5:30pm to teach teens how to put appliques on hoodies to personalize them.

Registration is required, and seats are limited



Registration


Dave Marchetti's Animal Experiences

Tuesday, October 21 -5:30pm

Children of all ages and their families are invited to learn about Dave Marchetti's cool reptiles and small mammals! Dave will take each one out to explain a bit about the animals, and at the end the participants may touch and hold the animals if they choose to. This is a fun and interactive family event! Registration is required and begins on 10/7.



Registration


Annual Costume Parade

Saturday, October 25 -12:30pm

Children of all ages and their families are invited to the Annual Costume Parade run by the Friends of the Library! All are invited to dress up in any family-friendly costume you choose, we will start the parade in front of the library and walk to the Town Beach parking lot assisted by the Narragansett Police. There will be Trunk or Treating available there (run by the Town of Narragansett) and children may bring their own bag or container to collect candy. After completing this, the parade will resume back through Pier Marketplace to visit some other businesses also offering candy. Finally, we will end back at the library where children can do a craft and take a pumpkin home if they like! Leashed dogs are welcome. Reg. is required and begins on 10/3.




Registration


Sewing Halloween Candy Bags (Ages 6 - 11)

Monday, October 27 -4:30pm



With Halloween right around the corner, Nora Barnes will be coming in to teach us how to make draw string bags for trick or treating, complete with glow in the dark decals! Ages 8-12 can sign up for the workshop October 27th from 4:30pm to 6:00pm!

Registration is required, and seats are limited.




Registration


News from The Friends of the

Narragansett Library



Costume Parade and Trunk or Treat


The Friend's Annual Costume Parade coordinated with the Town-sponsored Trunk or Treat will be held Saturday, October 25th. We will gather at the Library at 12:30 and start the parade to the beach promptly at 1:00, passing through the local Pier Marketplace shops. At the beach, the children will enjoy Trick or Treating at the cars assembled there. We will then return to the Library for refreshments, a craft, and a pumpkin donated by Belmont Markets.


Please email Gina Collopy O'Connell (gcollopy1@gmail.com) if you can help out on that day.


On Monday, October 6th, from 2:00-4:00 the Friends will host a reception for the new Library Director, Jared Jacavone, who will be starting at the end of September. Please come and meet Jared and welcome him to our beautiful Library and our Narragansett community. This event will be held at the Library and is open to all patrons, so please spread the word!


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