New York Times Gaming?!

Think The New York Times is just about news? Think again. Beyond headlines and in-depth reporting, The Times offers a world of brain-teasing games designed to challenge and entertain. It all started with the iconic Crossword in 1942. Fast forward to today, and the lineup is bigger and better: Mini Crossword, Spelling Bee, Letter Boxed, Tiles, and viral favorites like Wordle and Connections. Whether you’re a casual player or a puzzle pro, these games are the perfect blend of entertainment and fun. 

Upcoming Highlights

Thursday, February 26:

Showcase your talents at HPL’s Open Mic Night hosted by Hydro8SIXTY and featuring DJ Sealth. Welcoming all artists, whether you’re a poet, rapper, or stand-up comedian, all are welcome. This program is for all ages. Registration HERE.

Downtown Library, Center for Contemporary Culture | 500 Main Street | 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Monday, March 2:

A community closet filled with FREE business formal, business casual, and some everyday attire available to those in need.

Downtown Library, Classroom 140, 500 Main Street | 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, March 3:

We are kicking off Women's History Month. Join us to make a paper flower and learn about contributions of women in history.

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

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

Baby Grand Jazz



Formed in 2015, The Hartford Sound is a genre-blending ensemble rooted in the traditions of classic jazz and Latin jazz, with a strong voice in original composition. Founded by Dr. Emmett Goods, Damian Curtis, and Nelson Bello, the band brings together a seasoned ensemble with a shared commitment to dynamic, soulful performance. 

Can’t make it in person? Watch the live stream on HPL's YouTube, HPL’s Facebook, or on HPATV.

Sunday, March 1 | 3:00 p.m.

Doors open at 2:00 p.m.

Downtown Library

Center for Contemporary Culture

500 Main Street

Thank you to our 2026 presenting sponsor, The Kaman Foundation, for their generous support, and to our longtime partners, The Hartford Jazz Society and WWUH 91.3 FM, for helping us bring incredible music to the community every week.

Book Recommendations

The Lost Reliquary

Lyndsay Ely

"A ruthless, epic, and darkly hilarious read."

—Sara Hashem, author of The Jasad Heir

Find it HERE in our catalog

What To Do With Your Money When Crisis Hits

Michelle Singletary

"This book is the ultimate first aid kit for your finances."

—Victor Blackwell, CNN anchor

Find it HERE in our catalog

"Devotion is just another word for love. And love is a hard thing for anyone to give up, whether the object of that affection is living or dead."



—Lyndsay Ely, The Lost Reliquary

Press Play: TONIGHT!

Kick back and enjoy Press Play – the genre-blending concert performance by the Hartford Symphony Orchestra.



This show features anime music, with additional fan favorites from other genres.

Wednesday, February 25 | 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Downtown Library

Center for Contemporary Culture

500 Main Street

Affordable Housing

Join us in collaboration with Hartford HealthCare's Center for Healthy Aging to learn more about housing alternatives for seniors who cannot age in place.

Wednesday, March 4 | 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Barbour Library

261 Barbour Street

Festival of Colors

Celebrate Holi with wonderful activities, traditional Indian snacks and a color poetry competition!

Registration is required.

Wednesday, March 4 | 3:00 - 5:30 p.m.

Downtown Library

Children's Department, Third Floor

500 Main Street

Time's Ticking

HPL's The American Place has teamed up with Hartford Film Company to offer you a chance to win a cash prize. All you have to do is create a video and post it on social media about smart money habits.

Extended! Submission deadline is now Saturday, March 7. For rules and prize money amount, click HERE.

Resources & Services

Warming Centers: 

All HPL locations are welcoming warming centers during the winter months. Stop by to read, relax, and enjoy everything the Library has to offer. Click HERE for hours and locations.

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. Please call: (860) 840-1264.

Free ServSafe Classes: 

Ready to take the next step in your food service career? The ServSafe Food Handler Certification can help you secure employment and advance in the industry. The best part is, classes are free! Apply HERE.

Every Monday & Wednesday starting February 23 - March 9 | 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Downtown Library

500 Main Street

Your support makes a difference.