Come Visit Us!

Last week was one for the books... literally. Thank you to everyone who joined us at our ribbon-cutting ceremony and to those who attended our week-long celebration.

A special shout out to our donors and partners for helping us along the way.

HPL's Downtown Library ribbon cutting ceremony

Children's magic show

Ribbon cutting ceremony featuring our partners

HPL Studios dedication ceremony

Justice Dance Performance Project presents "Book Dances"

Annual Books & Brews fundraiser

Upcoming Highlights

Wednesday, June 10

A weekly gathering designed to create a space for honest conversation about men’s mental health, emotional wellness, healing, and personal growth. This program offers a welcoming environment where men can build community and share experiences. Register HERE.

Downtown Library, Classroom 139, Main Floor | 500 Main Street | 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

A 10-week workshop series where you can explore the world of studio recording. Register HERE.

Downtown Library, HPL Hall, Main Floor | 500 Main Street | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 11

Self-care session for teens where you can learn how to make soaps, essential oils, and build a sense of community.

Albany Library | 1250 Albany Avenue | 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Friday, June 12

Bring your phone case to create a DIY junk phone case. Charms and gems will be provided. This program is for teens.

Park Street Library @ the Lyric | 603 Park Street | 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

For more fun and engaging programs and events, click the buttons below!

Tomorrow!

Record drop!

A special evening celebrating the release of Tom Willits’ newest record, All of Us. Tom is a singer-songwriter, performer and producer. His music is rooted in storytelling and connection.

Registration is encouraged.



Thursday, June 11 | 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Downtown Library

HPL Hall, First Floor

500 Main Street

Book Recommendations

The Mermaid of Black Conch

Monique Roddey

"A beautiful young Taino woman named Aycayia, who was cursed centuries ago by envious wives to take the form of a sea creature. As she comes to live with David, who falls in love with her, she takes on human form and begins relearning human ways."

—Library Journal

Find it HERE in our catalog as an eAudiobook

Carnaval Fever

Yuliana Ortiz Ruano

"In this wondrous novel, both life's potential for beauty and harshness sing together. Ortiz has written a story you will not forget."

—Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, author of "Chain Gang All-Stars"



Find it HERE in our catalog

"The sea was the giant woman of the planet, fluid and contrary."

—Monique Roddey, The Mermaid of Black Conch

Summer Reading Kickoffs

The kickoff celebrations continue in honor of The Hartford Summer Reading Challenge. At each Hartford Public Library location, we will host a celebration in your neighborhood.

Each celebration will feature live music from Mega Education, story time hosted by Little Miss Puerto Rico, refreshments, and a resource fair featuring local organizations.

Wednesday, June 10: Ropkins Library | 1750 Main Street | 2:45 - 3:30 p.m.

Friday, June 12: Albany Library | 1250 Albany Avenue | 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday, June 16: Barbour Library | 261 Barbour Street | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, June 17: Dwight Library | 7 New Park Avenue | 2:45 - 4:45 p.m.

Thursday, June 25: Park Street Library @ the Lyric | 603 Park Street | 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Summer reading registration will be available. To learn more about the Hartford Summer Reading Challenge and to register for the challenge, click HERE.

Thank you to our partners for making this possible.

Pride Author Talk

In partnership with the Hartford Pride Center, Ben Dubow, author of Shift, will discuss his book, an empowering guide that helps readers break free from limiting patterns, gain clarity, and move forward with purpose in their overall lives. 

Registration is encouraged. The first 25 attendees get a free copy of the book.



Friday, June 12 | 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Downtown Library

Travelers Center for Arts & Culture, Main Floor

500 Main Street

Author Talk

Join us for an inspirational afternoon with Andreyah Black, author of Revelations for Resilience: Whispers from the Divine for Soul Care, as she dives into her collection of poetry and spiritual insights designed to rejuvenate the soul.

Registration is encouraged.



Monday, June 22 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Downtown Library

HPL Hall, Main Floor

500 Main Street

Special Notice

YOUmedia at Hartford Public Library's Downtown Library will be closed on Friday, June 12, to celebrate Albany Library's summer kickoff event.

Resources & Services

Fight Hunger: 

Facing food insecurity? Here's help:

• Text "211Food" to 898211
• Enter your zip code when prompted
• Identify an open food pantry near you
• For more information, click HERE.

Free Medical Rides: 

HPL + Bus or Car Rides = FREE rides to medical appointments for Hartford residents 18+. Contact us or have your provider contact us to schedule transportation to your next verified medical appointment. This service is for those who do not have a transportation benefit through their insurance provider. Please call: (860) 840-1264 for more information.

Your support makes a difference.