HPL's 250th Books Through Time 

Celebrating Generations of Women Writers

Caroline M. Hewins reading from Prescott’s History to her younger sister

Women writers have been shaping our world for centuries. We are pleased to highlight a few this month who are part of our 250 Books Through Time.


This week we are highlighting Emily Wilkens who was a groundbreaking fashion designer for children and teens. Born in Hartford, she published her first book Here's Looking at You in 1948 which offered tips for teens on personal style, beauty, and grooming.


You can check out our full list of HPL’s Books Through Time HERE

HPL Weekly Book Recommendations:

Check out what we're reading


Celebrating women writers all month long.

Viral Justice

 Ruha Benjamin



A passionate and inspiring book on how we can build a more just and joyful world one small change at a time.


 "[A] brilliant and impassioned book."

Paradigm Explorer



"There’s no one better to light the way out and guide us in building a just future than Ruha Benjamin." —-Ms. Magazine

Maame

Jessica George

New York Times Best Seller


Smart, funny, and poignant novel that shares one young woman's journey to independence and self-discovery.


 "...tender and comic, this portrait of a young woman's journey to self-understanding is triumphant." —People


"A pitch-perfect debut. Readers will revel in this." —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Baby Grand Jazz

 Grammy award winning Nicole Zuraitis performs this Sunday!

March 10

Center for Contemporary Culture (CCC) at the Downtown Library

2 p.m., Doors open to the public (Please come through the Arch Street entrance)

3 p.m., Concert


“A stunning singer with an equally adept pen.” The New York City Jazz Record


Nicole Zuraitis is a GRAMMY winning and two-time GRAMMY-nominated jazz singer-songwriter, pianist and arranger, New York-based bandleader and winner of the prestigious 2021 American Traditions Vocal Competition Gold Medal. With a “heart as big as her remarkable voice,” (Jazz Police), Nicole has positioned herself as one of the top artists and "prolific songwriters" (Broadway World) to watch in jazz and beyond. 


We are loving her "The Coffee Song"! Check it out HERE!


Nicole Zuraitis, voice/piano

Dan Pugach, drums

Idan Morim, guitar

Sam Weber, bass


Learn more our about entire line up of concerts HERE


We're celebrating the 20th season of Baby Grand Jazz with the support of a generous three-year sponsorship from The Kaman Foundation. Our free series features accomplished jazz musicians and bands from around the region. 

Mental Wellness Dialogue

with author Djuly Fleurant

“By sharing my story, I can show others they are not alone and not the only ones dealing with life’s challenges. We all go through very similar circumstances, yet we feel so outcast and alone because no one talks about it. I want to build a community that makes that possible." —Djuly Fleurant


Join author Djuly Fleurant in fostering an enriching dialogue to bring an awareness of generational trauma and how our past experiences have impacted us. Participants will gain insights into their mental wellness in order to facilitate personal growth, become empowered, prioritize well-being, and learn about the support systems available to them within the community


Monday, March 18

4 – 5 p.m.

Camp Field Branch

Teens and Adults Welcome

Register HERE



This project is funded by the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, under Cooperative Agreement Number U24LM014070 with the University of Iowa, Hardin Library for the Health Sciences, and the University of Pittsburgh, Health Sciences Library System.

Job Training Opportunities

Security Guard Card Class


Successful completion of this one-day program qualifies candidates to apply for a Security Officer ID card issued by the State of CT Dept. of Emergency Services & Public Protection.


Wednesday, March 13

8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Albany Branch

Register HERE

ServSafe Classes - Training for ServSafe Certifications


Training for adult students toward ServSafe certifications in three areas of food industry: Food Handler, Food Manager, and/or Alcohol.


Wednesday, March 13

3 - 5 p.m.

West Middle School Branch Classroom 1114

Leap Into Learning!

(and bring home a bear-themed book)

"Beary" Special Supercharged Storytime Playgroup


Children will receive a "beary" special reading buddy to promote reading and support social-emotional development. Plus, take home a bear-themed book set donated by the United Way Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Start your little ones' National Reading Month off right!


Thursday, March 14

9 - 10:30 a.m.

Downtown Library

Register HERE

Creating Well-Being. Together.


This month we are highlighting many of the health and wellness programs at our branches.

Zumba with Krissy - Zumba con Krissy

Wednesday, March 13, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Park Street Library @ The Lyric - For Adults and Teens

Join Krissy in a fun dance exercise to the rhythm of Latin music and more.

Unase a Krissy en ejercicio divertido al son de ritmos de musica Latina y mas.


Creating Well-Being Together

Wednesday, March 13, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Barbour Branch - For Adults

A different creative activity (painting, flower arranging, and/or writing) will be offered each week to learn and practice a science-based rewirement exercise.


Serenity Stones: Mandala Dot Painting

Thursday, March 14, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Albany Branch - For Adults

Delve into the therapeutic art of Mandala Dot Painting.


For more information and resources on Health and Wellness, click HERE


This project is funded by the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, under Cooperative Agreement Number U24LM014070 with the University of Iowa, Hardin Library for the Health Sciences, and the University of Pittsburgh, Health Sciences Library System.

 "There’s often a misconception that to be well-loved, the love has to come from multiple sources, when truthfully, one or two people can love you with the strength of ten.” Jessica George, Maame


Will you join Hartford Public Library's 250X250 Challenge? We're seeking 250 contributors to celebrate our 250th anniversary
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