New Milford Public Library Newsletter - May 2026 | | |
Let's celebrate America's 250th with a New Milford Cookbook full of YOUR family recipes. Find your favorite family recipes and let us know what category they are. We’re looking for authentic family recipes. The cookbook will be published in August for purchase. Proceeds will go to the Friends of New Milford Library. The library reserves the right to choose which recipes to publish.
We will be collecting recipes from March 2 through June 5. Please send in your recipes by email at: adultreading@newmilfordlibrary.org
Or bring the recipes to the library and hand them in at the front desk! Any questions? Call 860-355-1191 ext. 4216
| | | | | |
Ask a Master Gardener
May 9th 10:00am-12:00pm
Ask an expert all of your gardening questions. And soil pH testing is available.
Also, New Milford Public Library is looking for a volunteer who likes to garden! This person would be in charge of maintaining the flower bed near the NMPL sign in front of the library. Please email kreilly@newmilfordlibrary.org for more information.
| | | | | |
Tech-Talk
Tech-Talk is a premier collection of articles, videos, and webinars developed each week by top training experts for busy professionals, educators, and learners. It helps people stay current, relevant and productive using technology.
Tech-Talk also has a newsletter that patrons can sign-up for. Here is the link.
https://www.tech-talk.com/login/nmpl?login_code+nmpl
username: nmpl
password: nmpl
Live Tech-Talk Webinars:
Scrub Your Name from the Web: Reduce Your Digital Footprint
- Wednesday, May 6, 3:00-4:00 PM
Your name, email, and even old passwords may still be circulating online. In this practical workshop, learn how data broker sites collect your information, how to remove yourself manually, when to consider services like Incogni, and how to strengthen passwords and monitoring to reduce risk and regain digital confidence.
Discovering AI Resources: What to Know, What to Use, What to Avoid
- Wednesday, May 20, 3:00-4:00 PM
Artificial intelligence is transforming everyday work… but not every use is wise. In this practical session, learn the different types of AI, the best tools for professionals, and the risks to avoid. Discover how to protect privacy, reduce bias, verify accuracy, and use AI responsibly while improving productivity and decision-making.
Registration link for
Tech-Talk webinars: https://www.tech-talk.com/webinars?login_code=nmpl
| | |
Library Services:
Poster Printer
- Large posters: $ 9.30, greater than 24″ by 18″ but equal to or less than 24″ by 36″ (matte paper)
- Medium posters: $ 7.00, equal to or less than 24″ X 18″ (matte paper)
- Email requests to posters@newmilfordlibrary.org.
-
Interested in designing your own poster? We can show you how! Just book a Tech Help appointment to get started.
- **Please allow one week for the completion of posters.**
Large Format Cold Laminator
(24″ wide)
- Laminator fees are $ .20 per inch based on the amount of plastic sheathing used. The Laminator is 24″ wide.
- **Located on the 2nd floor ask staff at the Reference desk for assistance.**
| | |
Library News:
New Tutoring Policy
The Library is pleased to welcome tutors as part of our role in supporting learning. Please review the updated tutoring policy and procedures.
All tutors must sign in and sign out and present a valid photo ID.
Tutors that seek to use study rooms must ensure that a parent or guardian completes a waiver form before the tutoring sessions occur.
For children under the age of 12, a parent or guardian must remain in the Library building during tutoring sessions.
Thank you for your cooperation as we work to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for everyone.
| | | A Message From Our FRIENDS of the Library | | |
Don't miss the Friends BOOK SALE MAY 1 and 2!
Happy Anniversary to us! On April 28th, the FRIENDS of New Milford Library celebrated their 30th anniversary as members of the Friends of Connecticut Libraries. This organization includes over 100 groups from all around the state. Online forums discuss current issues; a quarterly newsletter provides a platform to spotlight library-related topics and to promote book sales, programs, and fundraising ideas. The annual meeting includes awards recognizing an outstanding group, individual, and project. We were the proud recipients of the state group award in 2017!
May brings us green grass, spring flowers, Mother’s Day, and Memorial Day. It is also National Military Appreciation Month, being celebrated with a selection of military history books in Friendly Finds. Proceeds from book sales are used to fund museum passes and a wide variety of programs at the library. You get to enjoy the books and the benefits! Cash, check, and Venmo are accepted. We gratefully accept donations of books in good condition that you no longer need or want. Volunteers will be at the back entrance of the library every Saturday from 9:30 until Noon for assistance. (You can also return books that you previously purchased from the FRIENDS!) To learn more, visit our website at www.FONML.com or e-mail us at FONML001@gmail.com
| | | | |
DID YOU KNOW?
Your library card can be stored digitally on your phone by choosing to use apps, such as Acorn, Express Checkout, Key Ring, Stocard, and cloudLibrary.
| | | |
Community Service Project for Knitters and Crocheters
We need your help! Knit or crochet hats, mittens, scarves and lap blankets to give to NM Social Services. Your simple act of kindness in the creating and giving of something handmade can bring a little warmth, comfort and joy to each recipient.
Call the library 860-355-1191 and ask for Jody for more information.
| | |
Reserve Museum Passes
New Milford residents can now reserve museum and cultural passes on our website. Reservations can be made up to three months ahead of time. You may also visit the library and check out an available pass. Out-of-town residents can also come into the library and check out passes. Special thanks to the Friends of NMPL for sponsoring these passes. Remember that these passes are loaned for three days only.
Celebrate Native American heritage and visit The Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington, CT. You'll receive 50% off admission and 10% off at the gift shop! https://www.iaismuseum.org
| |  | Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury collects and exhibits American art and cultural history – with a focus on the history of the Naugatuck Valley and the artists of Connecticut. Our passes allow free museum admission for two adults and children 18 years or younger. | | | | |
The library, along with Gallery 25, are hosting "Lorraine Ryan: A Lifetime of Art" through May 14. And our display case will show the pottery of Roberta Ajuha. Don't miss the works of these amazing artists.
From May 18-26, NMHS art students will be displaying their artwork. Be sure to come in and support these talented artists. There is an Art Reception on May 19 at 4:00pm.
| | |
SCORE at the Library!
Have a business idea? Want to grow your business? SCORE volunteers can help. Make an one-on-one appointment for May 12 HERE. There are four appointments for each session: 5:00-5:30, 5:30-6:00, 6:00-6:30, 6:30-7:00.
| | | | |
May Tech Programs
Drop-In Tech Help
- Wednesday, May 13, 6:00-7:00 PM
- Friday, May 29, 10:30-11:30 AM
Tech Help Appointments
Need some tech help? Book a one-on-one appointment for personalized assistance with your devices, apps, and everyday tech questions. Schedule online at https://newmilford.libcal.com/appointments or call 860-355-1191 x4210 to reserve your spot.
Technology Training Class
Windows Tips & Tricks: Get More from Your Computer
Sat May 16, 12:00-1:30 PM
Your Windows computer can do more than you think! In this class, we’ll explore a variety of built-in tools and features that can make everyday tasks easier, faster, and more enjoyable.
Learn how to use helpful features like Sticky Notes, the Snipping Tool, Dictation, and Quick Assist, along with tools for projecting your screen, connecting Bluetooth devices, and more. We’ll also highlight fun and practical uses like creating slideshows, reading free eBooks, and streaming content.
| | |
| |
Library of Things
The library has so many things you can borrow--like board games to play before you buy them as gifts! Plus, the library has Spanish language-learning games, too. Check it out!
| | | |
Hoopla Flex and Instant Borrows!
NMPL offers both Hoopla Instant and Hoopla Flex titles to patrons. What's the difference?
Flex Titles vs. Instant Borrows on Hoopla
Flex titles are digital items your library has purchased, often including newer releases and bestsellers. These may require placing a hold if they’re currently in use, and you can even suggest titles for the library to add.
Instant borrows come from Hoopla’s own collection and are always available with no waiting. Keep in mind that even if you’ve used all your Instant Borrows for the month, you may still have Flex Titles available. To save time, try using Advanced Search to quickly find what you need.
A recent addition to the BingePass offering, SeasonPass extends this access to select full TV seasons with a single borrow. Patrons can explore new series or revisit a favorite, all with no waiting.
SeasonPass includes a wide range of TV content from BBC Studios, PBS Distribution, and other partners, with genres such as thrilling crime and mystery series, docuseries, dramas, period pieces, comedies, and educational shows—with more on the way in the coming months.
Explore these BingePass releases:
- Hoopla Magazines BingePass
| | |
Need to do some research? Through the CT State Library, NMPL has comprehensive and easy accessible databases, like EBSCO. Here is a link.
| | |
| |
Sign Up for Wowbrary!
NMPL buys many new books, movies, and CDs each week. Wowbrary is a weekly email alert that shows you the newest books, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks that we purchased that week. So, you'll see the many exciting bestsellers, movies, music, and recorded books almost the very moment they arrive at the library.
To get started and see what the emails look like, visit www.wowbrary.org.
Or sign up directly through this link: https://wowbrary.org/signup.aspx?l=2312
| | | | | |
Be sure to check out the MAY Calendar.
Our monthly programs are going strong, plus we have Friday Lunch and Films, too. We also have Sit & Stitch every Tuesday from 3:30-5:00. Join us! For more info, call 860-355-1191 ext. 4216.
We have several book clubs as well:
- History Explored on May 12
- Booked for the Weekend on May 16
- Military Book Club on May 19
Click on the pictures below to register for these MAY Adult programs.
| | | |
Belle and Her Missing Heart
A special book reading and signing with author Daniel Angeles will take place May 2, 2026 at 10:30 AM at NMPL.
Inspired by a brave little girl named Belle, this touching story was created to bring comfort to children and families navigating loss. It follows Belle as she searches for her “missing” heart, only to discover it has been with her all along — a powerful reminder of resilience, love, and the enduring connection we share with those we’ve lost.
Registration is required. Please call the Children's Department at (860)355-1191, ext. 4217, or stop by the library to sign-up.
A direct and compelling headline
| | |
What Is Story Time?
It’s time to register for Fall Story Times. Some people think that Story Time is just someone reading books to children. But there is a lot more that goes into our programming. At NMPL, we keep our groups separated by age. This way, we can offer the best program for your child’s social and emotional needs. The stories and activities are developmentally correct for your child. Depending on the age of the children, we use books, flannel board stories, puppets, music, arts and crafts that will enhance the session. So, it is important that the children are in the correct age group.
We keep the children with the other kids that they will potentially go to school with by being strict about the age of the child. Connecticut Public Schools are now requiring children to be five years old by September 1st of the school year in order to register for kindergarten. We back that up by having our registration for Story Time use the same cut-off dates.
- Little Ones Mondays (10:00 AM or 11:00 AM) Child must be 1 by Sept. 1, 2025
- Terrific Twos Thursdays (10:00 AM or 11:00 AM) Child must be 2 by Sept. 1, 2025
- 3, 4, 5- Year-Old Story Time Wed. (10:00 AM or 11:00 AM) Child must be 3, 4 or 5 by Sept. 1, 2025
We want to give your children the best start to a love of reading and using the library.
| | Check out these NMPL May Teen Programs. See the calendar on our website for more super programs. | | | | |
