Wilton Library February 2021 Virtual Activities
Monday, Feb. 1 through Sunday, Feb. 7 Paper Plane Challenge for Grades 4 – 8. The Wilton Library Robotics Team, Singularity Technology, has planned a fun, educational challenge for students in grades 4 to 8. Use your creativity and engineering ingenuity to create a Paper Plane from ordinary materials you can find around your house. Submit a 1-3 minute video of your creation in flight along with an explanation of the materials you used to singultech@gmail.com. The team will view your videos and announce the top three planes based on design, function and creativity. Submissions must be received by Feb. 7. Have fun and learn something new all at the same time! Sign up required. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Monday, Feb. 1 through Monday, Feb. 15 Winter Book Bingo Reading Challenge Patrons of all ages are invited to join in the reading Bingo fun this winter! Girl Scout Emily Johnson has provided the library with a set of six Bingo cards you can print at home and complete. Emily will send anyone who completes a bingo a prize. For more details email emilyjohnsongoldaward@gmail.com Click here to print. Or view the cards and instructions at https://www.wiltonlibrary.org/sites/default/files/WLA_Printable_Book_Bingo_cards.pdf. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Mondays, Feb. 1 & 8 Teens – Learn to Knit a Winter Hat (Part 1 & 2), 4 – 5:30 p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 can learn how to knit and make a winter hat in just two consecutive Mondays on 2/1 and 2/8. Instructor Kate Filaski began knitting while in college and loves to share her knowledge and get others excited about all the simple, but cool things to make. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org for tutorials, a list of what to purchase for the sessions, and to register. The library will supply the necessary tools (needles and markers). Before the workshop, teens can swing by Wilton Library's drive-thru to pick them up. Registration required and space limited. The program is sponsored by the John and Patricia Curran Teen Fund. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Mondays, Feb. 1, 8 & 22 Ready Readers Live!, 4:15 – 4:45 p.m. Children ages 4-6 are invited to join in some story time fun! We will read two stories and have some chat time. Registration is required and space is limited. Registrants will receive an email link to the Zoom meeting shortly before the program. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. No session Feb. 15. Questions? Email aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesdays, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24 Zooming Toddler Story Time, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Join us for an interactive Zoom story time geared especially for toddlers ages 1-3 years. Children and their caregivers will have fun listening to stories, singing songs, learning rhymes, and doing movement activities, all while building literacy skills. Registration is required for each date, and a Zoom link will be sent out the day before the program. For more details or if you have any questions, email Miss Amy at alilienharper@wiltonlibrary.org. Please visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesday, Feb. 3 Zentangle Art Workshop: Zooming with Amy, 3:30 - 5 p.m. Join Amy, Wilton Library's certified Zentangle instructor, for a fun and relaxing live online Zentangle art session. This meditative art form uses simple steps to teach practitioners how to create beautiful patterns. Suitable for anyone who doesn't believe they can draw, as well as experienced artists. For adults and teens, ages 13+. See the library’s registration link for suggestions of supplies needed. Registration is required and space is limited. Must have a Zoom account. An email link will be provided to all registrants prior to the session. Please email slauricella@wiltonlibrary.org with any questions. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register and for short video tutorials. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesday, Feb. 3 Junk Drawer STEM, 4 – 5 p.m. Kids in grades 4 – 6 are invited to explore STEM concepts. Each week we will conduct two experiments using various common household items. This week we will explore properties of matter and acids and bases. See website for supplies needed. Participants must register for each class, space is limited. Additional sessions: Feb. 10, 17 & 24. Zoom links will be sent shortly before the program. Questions? Email aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Thursdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18 & 25 Winter Poetry with Judson Scruton: Louise Glück’s Journey to the 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Judson Scruton will lead a 4-part series using selected poems from Nobel Prize-winner Louise Glück’s remarkable twelve books of poetry. In the words of the 2015 National Endowment for the Humanities award, her works have given “lyrical expression to our inner conflicts. Her use of verse connects us to the myths of the ancients, the magic of the natural world and the essence of who we are.” Poetry packets will be emailed in advance. No charge for the program. This seminar is made possible with the support of the Literary Series in Memory of Amy Quigley. Register online in order to receive the readings and the Zoom session invitation links. By registering for the first session, attendees will automatically be registered for all four sessions. Please email Michael Bellacosa with any questions at mbellacosa@wiltonlibrary.org. Judson Scruton M.A (The Johns Hopkins University, The Writing Seminars, specializing in poetry) has taught creative writing and literature at prep schools and universities. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org for speaker details and to register for the series. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Thursdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18 & 25 Mother Goose on the Loose, 11 – 11:30 a.m.Children ages 6 months to 2 years old will enjoy a fun story time with music, puppets, picture books and nursery rhymes. The sessions run on Thursdays from Jan. 7 through March 11. Registration is required for each individual session and space is limited. Registrants will receive an email link to the Zoom meeting the morning of the program. For more details, email Mrs. Keogh at lkeogh@wiltonlibrary.org. Please visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Thursday, Feb. 4 Teens Bake Chocolate Ganache Tart!, 5 – 6 p.m. Join Katie, registered dietitian from Food Explorers, to make a Chocolate Ganache Tart with homemade whipped cream. This delicious dessert is perfect for Valentine’s Day, so get your practice in now! You’ll need the following ingredients: Oreos or chocolate graham crackers, butter, heavy cream (1.5 cups), 12 of either dark or milk chocolate (or a mixture of both). Chocolate chips or bars of chocolate are both fine. For teens in grades 6-12. Registration required and space limited. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Zoom link will be emailed in advance to registrants. Sponsored by the John & Patricia Curran Teen Fund. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Saturday, Feb. 6 Padawan Training, 2 – 3 p.m. In honor of “Take your Child to the Library Day,” Wilton Library will be hosting a Padawan training Zoom program performed by the Saber Guild Kessel Temple. The performers are professional, immersed in their characters, and well-rehearsed so children will feel like they are truly using the force. The program is recommended for ages 6 and up. Children should have a toy Light saber, or anything Light saber like (pool noodle, ruler). Registration required. The Zoom link will be sent the morning of the program. Lesley Keogh at lkeogh@wiltonlibrary.org with any questions. Please visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Saturday, Feb. 6 & 20 Virtual Book Club, 3 – 4 p.m.Are you looking to find new books to read? Are you looking to connect with other kids during this pandemic? If so, you’re in luck! Join Girl Scout Emily Johnson’s Virtual Book Club. This book club is open to all students entering grades 4-7. The group meets bi-monthly. Contact aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org with any questions. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Registration required in order to receive the Zoom link. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Monday, Feb. 8 Stitch Time for Knitters & Crocheters on Zoom, 1 – 2 p.m. Zoom session for crafters of all skill levels. Show off your latest creation, seek advice, and chat about anything while working on your own projects. Registration is required. Once you are registered, we'll email you the Zoom link. Please feel free to email cbenjamin@wiltonlibrary.org with any questions. To register, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Tuesday, Feb. 9 The Cookbook Connection: A Virtual Recipe Swap, 5 – 6 p.m. Who doesn't love Chocolate?! You can drizzle, decorate, bake, or cook, or with it. Eat or drink it. Fudge, Tarts, Hot Chocolate, Mole dishes ... you name it! So join us to share your favorite chocolate recipe. Virtually “show and tell” or just come for the chat. Registration is required and space is limited. Must have a Zoom account. An email link will be provided to all registrants the morning of session. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Questions? Please email slauricella@wiltonlibrary.org. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesday, Feb. 10 Valentine’s Book Folding Art Workshop, 3 – 4:30 p.m. Join us on Zoom to re-use and re-purpose an old book and transform its pages into the shape of a heart. We’ll provide the book and the pattern. All you need is a ruler, pencil and the time set aside to join the workshop and create this unique decoration. For ages 18+. Registration required. Book and pattern pick up available at our drive-through several days in advance. A Zoom link will be provided the morning of the workshop. To register, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesday, Feb. 10 Junk Drawer STEM, 4 – 5 p.m. Kids in grades 4 – 6 are invited to explore STEM concepts. Each week we will conduct two experiments using various common household items. This week we will explore forces and motion. See website for supplies needed. **Please note parental guidance is required this week.**Participants must register for each class, space is limited. Additional sessions: Feb. 17 & 24. Zoom links will be sent shortly before the program. Questions? Email aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Thursday, Feb. 11 Police Officer Story Time Live!, 10 – 10:30 a.m. Children ages 2 and up are invited to join Wilton Police Officers for an interactive story time on Zoom. You must have an account with Zoom. Registration for this program is required. Registrants will receive an email link to the Zoom meeting prior to the program. To register, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org. For questions email aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Thursday, Feb. 11 WLA/WHS Scholarly Series: Connecticut Creativity: Vision + Imagination + Inspiration - Dr. Gil Harel, 5 – 6:30 p.m. In the 14th year of the collaboration between Wilton Library and the Wilton Historical Society, this 5-part scholarly lecture series held virtually will focus on the theme of “Connecticut Creativity.” During this program, Dr. Gil Harel (PhD, Brandeis University) will discuss Danbury-born composer Charles Ives as a founder of a distinct American music idiom in the program, “Charles Ives and the American Music Identity.” Charles Ives may very well be considered one of the most important American composers of the modern period. His considerable wealth is cited as a factor in allowing the composer to write abstract and complex works without having to worry about ticket sales. Today, he is regarded as a seminal American composer whose pioneering work with polytonality, polyrhythm, tone clusters, aleatory elements and more has cemented his place in the canon. Gil Harel is a musicologist and music theorist whose interests include styles ranging from the western classical repertoire to jazz. He is a popular guest lecturer in this scholarly series. At Naugatuck Valley Community College, Harel conducts the college chorale, a cappella ensemble, teaches music history and theory, and serves as musical director of theater productions. The moderator is Max Gabrielson. This program is sponsored by Nancy and Bill Brautigam and hosted by Wilton Library. No charge; donations welcome. See www.wiltonlibrary.org for additional dates, topic and speaker details and registration. Registration required for each individual session in order to receive the live stream links. Additional dates: Feb. 25 Famous Artists School; March 11 World of Maurice Sendak; March 25 Story Behind PT Barnum; April 8 Gillette and Holmes. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Saturday, Feb. 13 League of Women Voters Legislative Dialogue, 12 – 1 p.m. Please join us as Wilton Library and the Wilton League of Women Voters present a Legislative Dialogue to give our elected state legislators an opportunity to present their priorities for the 2021 Connecticut Assembly session, and for constituents to provide them feedback and ask them questions about issues facing our town and state. Senator Will Haskell (District 26), newly elected Representative Stephanie Thomas (District 123), and Representative Tom O'Dea (District 125) have been invited. Online registration required in order to receive the Zoom invitation link. Please email Pam Klem with any questions about the event at tdnpk@optonline.net. Prior to the event, a dedicated email will be established to collect questions in advance. Constituents will also be able to submit questions during the virtual event. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesday, Feb. 17 Junk Drawer STEM, 4 – 5 p.m. Kids in grades 4 – 6 are invited to explore STEM concepts. Each week we will conduct two experiments using various common household items. This week we will explore energy and structural design. See website for supplies needed. Participants must register for each class, space is limited. Last session: Feb. 24. Zoom links will be sent shortly before the program. Questions? Email aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesday, Feb. 18 More Zooming Child-Adult Zentangle Fun, 3:30 – 5 p.m. Calling all artists and doodlers. If you love to draw or doodle but think you aren’t a good artist, this is the program for you. Using a few simple steps and techniques, anyone can learn to create beautiful artwork in a relaxing atmosphere. So join us and share some time with your favorite grownup. We will be doing different beginner tangles and this class will work equally well for first-timers and those who have a bit more experience. For children entering grades 3 – 6 with a participating adult. Registration is required. Please register all attendees. Participants will be contacted to pick up supplies a few days before the program. The Zoom link will be distributed before the session. Register online. Please note: supplies and space are limited. We ask that patrons register only if you are sure you can attend. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Email alilienharper@wiltonlibrary.org with any questions. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Friday, Feb. 19 CT Poetry Society Workshop –Online Zoom Meeting, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Please join us online for the next CT Poetry Society workshop using Zoom. All that's required is the willingness to share some poetry that you have written by reading it aloud to the group. Poets should email a copy of their poems to Ray Rauth at rayrauth@optonline.net. He will distribute the poems to the group shortly before the session. To facilitate discussion, space is strictly limited to just 15 attendees. No charge but online registration is required. The Zoom invitation link will be emailed to registrants shortly before the event. To register, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Tuesday, Feb. 23 Firefighter Story Time Live, 10 – 10:30 a.m. Children ages 2 and up are invited to join Wilton Fire Fighters for an interactive story time on Zoom. You must have an account with Zoom. Registration for this program is required, and we will send you a link to the meeting via email. For questions email aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org. To register, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Wednesday, Feb. 24 Junk Drawer STEM, 4 – 5 p.m. Kids in grades 4 – 6 are invited to explore STEM concepts. Each week we will conduct two experiments using various common household items. This week we will explore radioactivity and thermodynamics. See website for supplies needed. Participants must register for each class, space is limited. Zoom links will be sent shortly before the program. Questions? Email aszabo@wiltonlibrary.org. Visit www.wiltonlibrary.org to register. Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.
Thursday, Feb. 25 WLA/WHS Scholarly Series: Connecticut Creativity: Vision + Imagination + Inspiration - Stephanie Haboush Plunkett and Magdalen Livesey, 5 – 6:30 p.m. In the 14th year of the collaboration between Wilton Library and the Wilton Historical Society, the scholarly lecture series held virtually will focus on the theme of “Connecticut Creativity.” In this presentation, “The Story of Famous Artists School and its Connecticut Roots,” Stephanie Haboush Plunkett and Magdalen Livesey will look at the lasting influence of the Famous Artists School and the artists who contributed to it on the world of illustration from the twentieth century until today. Famous Artists School – “the art school for everyone, everywhere” – began in 1948 in Westport, then home to a number of well-known artists and illustrators. Eleven artists, including Norman Rockwell and Stevan Dohanos, contributed material for the comprehensive courses. Stephanie Haboush Plunkett is the Deputy Director and Chief Curator of the Norman Rockwell Museum.
Magdalen Livesey is a writer and freelance editor. She and her husband, Robert Livesey, owned Famous Artists School from 1982 to 2016. No charge; donations welcome. See www.wiltonlibrary.org for additional dates, topic and speaker details and registration. Registration required for each individual session in order to receive the live stream links. Additional dates: March 11 World of Maurice Sendak; March 25 Story Behind PT Barnum; April 8 Gillette and Holmes.Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton; www.wiltonlibrary.org; 203-762-3950.