Stratford Library Blog

New Dates for Nook, Kindle, iPad Sessions at Stratford Library

2012-01-24T17:39:00.005-05:00

Are you a newbie with the Nook? Do you find the Kindle kinda confusing? Does your iPad make you i-Rate?

The Stratford Library has set new dates for our popular "Technology Sandbox" sessions, a series of open-house, hands-on help sessions for people who are just getting started with downloading library materials onto portable devices. Library staff will be on hand to help you get comfortable with and learn how to use these new devices.

Bring your e-reader or your tablet computer to one of the sessions listed below. We will show you how to get yourself set up for reading and downloading library materials for free. Laptops are invited too!
Bring your smartphone or mobile device -- they can download library materials also!
If you haven't committed to purchasing one of these devices yet, come try out ours -- we have sample devices for you to "test drive."

All sessions are in the Stratford Library's Lovell Room. It's an open house format, so just drop by.

Tues., Jan. 24, 5 to 7 p.m.

Mon., Jan. 30, 10 to 12 p.m.

Thurs., Feb. 2, 3 to 5 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 10, 10 to 12 p.m.

Thurs., Feb. 16, 3 to 5 p.m.

Tues., Feb. 21, 5 to 7 p.m.

Yes, we have tax forms

2012-01-18T16:25:00.004-05:00

Tax forms are no longer mailed to your home automatically. The post office no longer carries tax forms. What is a person supposed to do?

The Stratford Library is your source for federal and Connecticut tax forms. This is just one of many public services we provide as the hub of the community and Stratford's information center.

We have the most frequently used federal and Connecticut forms and instruction booklets available in our lobby (while supplies last). If you require an unusual form that is not on display, come to the Reference Desk and we will help locate it for you.

Do-it-yourself types can get a head start by printing out the forms themselves (as well as the instruction booklets) at the IRS and CT Dept. of Revenue Services websites:

IRS (Federal) Tax Forms and Instructions
CT Dept. of Revenue Services Tax Forms and Instructions

The Stratford Library -- serving the public's information needs cheerfully, efficiently and economically since 1885.

Local Flight Pioneers Highlighted in Library Talk Jan. 8

2012-01-04T13:43:00.002-05:00

On Sunday, Jan. 8 at 2 p.m. at the Stratford Library, Bridgeport historian Charles Brilvich will discuss the "Lordship Flying Grounds" and the early flights of Gustave Whitehead that took place there from 1901-02.

According to some aviation historians, Bridgeport resident Gustave Whitehead built and flew a mono plane with a four cylinder, two-cycle motor on a flight of a mile and half in 1901, two years before the Wright Brothers' more famous flight.

Brilvich will begin with a brief history of Lordship and a description of its appearance at the beginning of the 20th century and the barnstormers who utilized this natural landing field during the first quarter of the last century. He will also describe the development of Bridgeport Airport from the time of its inception through the 1950s, the arrival of Igor Sikorsky in 1928, and the long list of aviation firsts that his company was responsible for.

Charles Brilvich has a long personal history helping to document and preserve the vital history of the Bridgeport area. Brilvich served as official Historian of the City of Bridgeport from 1990 to 2003 and as Historian of the Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe. He is the author of "History of the Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe," (History Press, 2007). Brilvich has been profiled in Historic Preservation Magazine, the official publication of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

“Sunday Afternoon Talks” with Charles Brilvich will be held in the Stratford Library’s Lovell Room beginning at 2 pm on Sunday, January 8^th. For further information call the library’s Public Relations & Programming Office at 203.385.4162.

Library ELF -- the elf that works for you all year round

2011-12-26T17:52:00.002-05:00

It's the time of year for making resolutions, so here's an easy way to keep that annual resolution that you're going to keep better track of your family's library books and your books on reserve.

Sign up for the free Library ELF service to be reminded by email or text message when your library materials are coming due, or when you have holds ready to be picked up. You decide what kind of reminders you want to get and how often. The Library ELF is your servant!

Before items are due back at the library
For overdue items
When you have a hold available for pick-up from the library

How does Library ELF work?

Library ELF premium service is available to Stratford residents free of charge. Stratford Library subscribes to this service on your behalf.
Go to www.libraryelf.org to sign up. Enter your library card number without spaces. The Stratford Library does not require the use of a PIN—leave this field blank. Note: Your library card account(s) must be current to take advantage of this service.
You can select the frequency of notice delivery.
Library ELF will check your library account(s) each day and will send you an email, text message to alert you when items are due, past due or if holds are available for pick-up.
Library ELF is a third-party service, not affiliated with the Stratford Library. Please read the Library ELF privacy policy and FAQ before signing up for the service.

New dates scheduled for popular Technology Sandbox programs

2011-11-21T15:37:00.004-05:00

Does your holiday shopping have you trying to choose between the Nook and the Kindle? Wondering if the new Amazon Kindle Fire really is a reasonable-priced alternative to the iPad? Come see for yourself at a "Library Technology Sandbox." We'll have e-readers like the Nook and the Kindle, the new Amazon "Fire" (a budget alternative to the iPad), tablet computers, iPads, MP3 players, and iPods for you to test drive and play with here at the library.

Our series of “Technology Sandbox" workshops will include an opportunity for patrons to try out these new products. The first series of workshops in November was so popular that we have scheduled a new series for December and January. They are free and open to the public.

If you already have have an e-reader, a laptop, a smartphone or a mobile device, bring it to a "Sandbox" and we'll show you how to download library materials for free.

"Sandboxes" will be held in the Library's Lovell room and are scheduled for:

Sandboxes are scheduled for:

Mon., Dec. 12, 10:00-12:00 noon
Mon., Dec. 13, 5:00-7:00 pm
Tues., Jan. 3, 5:00-7:00 pm
Mon., Jan. 9, 10:00-12:00 noon and 3:00-5:00 pm

Handle a Kindle, Look at a Nook, Eyeball an iPad at the Library

2011-10-31T10:38:00.004-04:00

You're not the kind of person to go out and spend money on the latest thing until you're sure it's right for you. But how do you get your hands on a Kindle before you buy one? How do you test drive an iPad if the store can't keep them in stock?

Come to a "Library Technology Sandbox." We'll have e-readers like the Nook and the Kindle, tablet computers, iPads, MP3 players, and iPods for you to test drive and play with here at the library.

Our series of “Technology Sandbox" workshops will include an opportunity for patrons to try out these new products. The Library’s professional staff will conduct the workshops scheduled November 1-19^th. They are free and open to the public.

If you already have have an e-reader, a laptop, a smartphone or a mobile device, bring it to a "Sandbox" and we'll show you how to download library materials for free.

"Sandboxes" will be held in the Library's Lovell room and are scheduled for:

Tue., Nov. 1, 5:30-7:30 pm
Mon., Nov. 7, 10:00-12:00 noon
Sun., Nov. 13, 1:00-3:00 pm
Mon., Nov. 14, 3:00-5:00 pm
Sat., Nov. 19, 10:00-12:00 noon

Insidious" is free Friday night movie at the Library

2011-10-26T14:47:00.002-04:00

The Library's free film series continues on Friday, October 28, with Insidious, a 2011 horror flick that is just the thing to get your Halloween weekend off to a spooktacular start.

Join us at 7 pm. And if you can't sleep later... don't say we didn't warn you.

Insidious Friday, October 28 at 7 pm Rated PG-13 103 minutes
After moving into a new home, Josh (Patrick Wilson) and his wife Renai (Rose Byrne) confront terrifying tribulations when their son falls into a coma and his body starts to attract malevolent forces from a mysterious netherworld. But when the family decides to move again, hoping to leave the evil spirits behind, they realize that their problems are just beginning. This nifty horror flick was one of this year’s surprise hits.

Movies are shown uncut on widescreen in the Stratford Library Lovell Room each month beginning at 7 pm. Complimentary snacks will be served. Join us! For further information call the library at 203.385.4164.

Coming up later in this free movie series:

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo November 11
The King’s Speech December 9

Book group meets October 26 for psychological thriller "Sister"

2011-10-20T17:59:00.007-04:00

Do you like the idea of a book group, but you're not ready to start one yourself? Meet up with other readers at the library's book group and enjoy the easy-going camaderie created by experienced host and discussion leader Kathleen Faggella.

While most people do borrow the book for the month from the library and read it ahead of time, it's certainly not required. Newcomers may just drop by and find out if the format of the group appeals to them.

The Stratford Library “Books Over Coffee” discussion group will tackle Rosamund Lupton’s current bestseller, Sister, on Wednesday, October 26th at noon. Sister is a psychological thriller that turns on the complicated relationship between two sisters.

When her mom calls to tell her that Tess, her younger sister, is missing, Bee returns home to London on the first flight. She expects to find Tess and gives her the usual lecture, the bossy big sister scolding her flighty baby sister for taking off without letting anyone know her plans. Bee is used to watching out for her wayward sibling and is fiercely protective of Tess (and has always been a little stern about her antics). But then Tess is found dead, apparently by her own hand. That is just the beginning of the enthralling crime novel that is Sister, the debut work and instant bestseller from author Rosamund Lupton.

“Books Over Coffee” will be held in the Stratford Library’s Lovell Room beginning at noon on October 26th. Participants are invited to bring a bag lunch to the program and coffee and tea is also served. Limited reading copies of Sister are currently available for loan at the library’s Circulation Desk.

Books coming up later in the year include:

November 30: Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
December 21: Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson

Free SAT Preparation Workshop Offered at the Library on October 18

2011-10-10T15:19:00.002-04:00

Do the smart thing! Take advantage of the library's free SAT prep program on October 18.

What's the smartest way to prepare for the SAT? How can you maximize your chance of success? What makes the difference between an average performance and one that's outstanding?

The Stratford Library Teen Services Department will host a special program to help students with upcoming Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SATs) on Tuesday, October 18 from 6-8 pm. The seminar, which is free and open to the public, will be conducted by New Haven-based tutor Ellis Ratner.

Ratner will cover effective time management and optimum approaches to the Critical Reading, Sentence Improvement and Sentence Error Identification Sections. He will focus especially on effective and rapid vocabulary development and how to best address the Essay Writing Section. Ratner is a Cum Laude graduate of Trinity College, a Juris Doctor from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and the co–author of several published books. For the past several years he has tutored privately and specializes in SAT preparation.

The “Teen Tuesday” seminar is scheduled from 6-8 pm in the Lovell Room of the Stratford Library on October 18. For further information contact the Stratford Library Teen Services Department at 203.385.4167 or check out “TeenZone” on the library website at: www.stratfordlibrary.org.

Library ebooks are now available for the Amazon Kindle

2011-09-22T13:31:00.003-04:00

Kindle ebooks are here! We're so excited about a long awaited addition to our ebook collection; ebooks are now available for Kindle users. You can borrow ebooks from the Library to read on any generation Kindle device, free Kindle app, or in your browser with Kindle Cloud Reader.

Kindle owners can finally join the owners of the Nook, the Sony Reader, the Kobo, the iPad and the iPhone (and many other devices) who have been happily borrowing ebooks from the Stratford Library for the past year. Our ebook service, called Overdrive, is the fastest growing part of our collection.

You'll need your Stratford Library card to check out ebooks. Find out more and check out ebooks here.

If you live in Stratford and you don't have a library card yet, you don't know what you've been missing! Pay us a visit today with your ID that shows that you live in Stratford and we'll sign you up. It's free, and it just takes five minutes. Your library card is a key that opens up the whole world of ideas to you.

Knitting Program to Benefit Local Children Starts Sept. 21

2011-09-21T10:26:00.005-04:00

Knitting for Kids at the Stratford Library will meet for a six-week session on Wednesdays at 3:45 p.m. beginning Sept. 21. Boys and girls age 7 and up are welcome to attend. The classes are for new knitters or those wishing to refresh their skills. The fall project will be knitting scarves and hats for local children.

Knitters are asked to bring their own needles (US sizes 8-11 recommended). Class will be held in the Children’s Department’s Book Nook. Miss Tess and Miss Caitlin lead the group with the friendly assistance of volunteers Miss Martha and Miss Cynthia.

To register or for further information, call the Children’s Department at 203.385.4165 or visit: www.stratfordlibrary.org.

Library offers AARP Driver Safety Program

2011-09-02T15:29:00.002-04:00

The Stratford Library, in conjunction with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), will offer another session of the “AARP Driver Safety Program”, a classroom driver retraining program designed to help older persons improve their driving skills on Tuesday, September 6 from 1-5 pm. The new one-day class program will be held in the Library’s Lovell Room. Developed by the AARP, the program is the first comprehensive driver retraining course geared to the specific needs of older motorists.

Persons 50 years of age or older are eligible to participate in the library program and will receive a certificate of completion at the end of instruction. The course is limited to 24 participates only and there is a nominal fee of $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members charged by the AARP. Reservations are required and can be made by calling AARP Representative Michael Klein at 203.929.4851.

As of Friday afternoon, Mr. Klein noted that he still had about a dozen spaces available in the class. He explained that because his telephone service was only just restored after last week's storm, people who were unable to reach him earlier to make a reservation should now be able to get through.

The Library is located at 2203 Main St., Stratford.

Extra vacation, extra library programs for kids

2011-08-31T13:11:00.006-04:00

The Stratford Library's Children's Department will offer two extra programs this week to keep kids busy during their extra week of summer vacation. Programs are free. Please register at the Children’s Desk, or call 203.385.4165.

Here are the new events just added to the library's schedule:

Book Cover Craft : Wednesday, Aug. 31 at 2:30 p.m.

Children ages 5 to 12 are invited to make book covers for their first day of school, which was pushed back to Sept. 6 yesterday. Bring your creativity, supplies provided.

School's Out Spelling Bee : Thursday, Sept. 1 at 2:30 p.m.

Kids are encouraged to practice their school skills with this lively, silly spelling bee for children ages 6 to 12. Words for all levels of spellers provided.

The Stratford Library has power, programs and plenty of items for kids and adults. Come in and charge your phone, pick up an audiobook to listen to as the sun goes down, check your email and visit with your neighbors.

Teen relationships on Teen Tuesday

2011-07-30T14:30:00.003-04:00

This week our Teen Tuesday program deals with teen dating violence & healthy relationships. MYOthello will present a 3 act performance from "Othello" that will explore themes relating to teen dating violence. A discussion will follow the performance. Tuesday, August 2nd, 6:30 pm in the Lovell Room.

The day you were born: commemorated!

2011-06-24T10:07:00.006-04:00

Not too long ago, the New York Times published a book that reproduces the front page of the newspaper for important events in history, like Monday, July 21, 1969 ("MEN WALK ON MOON") or Tuesday, December 8, 1941 ("U.S. DECLARES WAR, PACIFIC BATTLE WIDENS").

That's interesting enough, but that's not all... It also contained CD-ROMs with every single Times front page ever published up to 2008 -- over 50,000 front pages.

That means it's fairly easy to print out a reproduction of the front page of the newspaper for the day you were born -- a great prop for a birthday or anniversary parties.

Come by the library and ask a librarian to help you print out your special day from our copy of this fascinating volume.

The Internet vs. Encyclopedias: you don't have to choose

2011-06-06T11:08:00.016-04:00

Remember how most families used to have an encyclopedia in their home, on a shelf in a place of honor? Usually it would be the World Book, or maybe the Britannica. Often it would be ten years old or older, because encyclopedias were a big investment and a family couldn't afford to get a new one very often. Kids would use the encyclopedia to do their schoolwork. The grown-ups would use it to settle a bet about how long it would take to drive from Detroit to Chicago.

Now, those same families probably have the internet in their home, and they'd use the computer when they once used the encyclopedia.

But as most people know, for all of its convenience and speed, the internet is not always the most reliable source of information. Let's say you want to know more about e. coli, the bacteria causing an outbreak of food poisoning in Europe. You can get the reliable, accurate information of a famous encyclopedia, at any of time of day or night, via the Internet, using the Stratford Library's subscription to the World Book Online.

The online World Book is updated constantly, so it doesn't go out of date like the set your parents may have had. And it refers you to information from many sources beyond the encyclopedia. But you can be sure it will all be reliable information from reputable sources, fact checked by the World Book editors.

How do you log on? Go to the Stratfordlibrary.org website, and click on the box that says "Get it online with your library card."

On the next page, you'll see the list of our most popular online resources, including The World Book Online.

Log on using your Stratford Library card number, and you'll be all set to get reliable, up to date information with the speed of the Internet.

Power user tip: The World Book Online offers different versions for different ages:

World Book for Kids for the youngest students
World Book Info Finder for middle school and high school students
World Book Online Reference Center for adults

Up-and-Coming... Recommended Reads

2011-05-11T12:27:00.009-04:00

New books that caught our eye! You may not have heard about them yet -- but you will enjoy reading them.

Shadows Bright as Glass: The Remarkable Story of One Man's Journey from Brain Trauma to Artistic Triumph, by Amy Ellis Nutt.

After a brain hemorrhage nearly killed him, Jon Sarkin awoke with an overwhelming desire to create art. Before the stroke, he was a calm chiropractor, a happily married family man. Now he devotes all his waking hours to furiously drawing and painting.

Journalist Amy Ellis Nutt interweaves Sarkin’s remarkable story with a fascinating look at how our "personality" arises from the brain's neurons and electrical pulses. Nutt brings to life the extraordinary stories of people whose personalities and abilities were dramatically altered by brain trauma, often in shocking ways.

Place a hold now on Shadows Bright as Glass-- we'll call you when it's ready for you.

The Sorcerer's Apprentices: A Season in the Kitchen at Ferran Adria's El Bulli, by Lisa Abend

Did you know there is a restaurant in Spain that gets more than two million requests for reservations each year.... the average cost of a meal is $500 and yet it operates at a loss.... and apprentices will work there for free to learn from the "mad genius" master chef, Ferran Adria.This is El Bulli, the most avant-garde and the most sought-after restaurant in the world.

In her lively new book, The Sorcerer's Apprentices Lisa Abend immerses herself in the heat, the anxiety, and the ingenuity of this pressurized little world.

Place a hold now on The Sorcerer's Apprentices--we'll call you when it's ready for you.

Final Jeopardy: Man vs. Machine and the Quest to Know Everything by Stephen Baker.

The recent competition between all-time Jeopardy champions Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter against a new IBM supercomputer was a bit of a let-down, since the computer easily trounced the two men. But the story of how IBM developed this computer to "answer questions like a human" is anything but predictable.

At its heart, Final Jeopardy is about the future of knowledge. What will Watson’s heirs be capable of in ten or twenty years? And where does that leave humans? As fast and fun as the game itself, Final Jeopardy shows how smart machines will fit into our world — and how they’ll disrupt it.

Place a hold now on Final Jeopardy-- we'll call you when it's ready for you.

The New York Times -- for a fee, or for free?

2011-05-05T14:27:00.020-04:00

If you've been keeping up with the New York Times through their website instead of as a newspaper, you've probably come across their announcement that they will no longer allow their online audience to read an unlimited number of articles for free. This could put a dent in your plan to save money while you stay informed with "all the news that's fit to print" on the web.

(Just a thought -- is the news still printed if it appears online?) But as a Stratford library card holder, you have other options. The Library has an electronic subscription to the New York Times with no limits on how often you can use it -- so that's available to you 24/7. There is no limit to how often a library user can read the entire newspaper (and the archive back to 1985) for free through our electronic subscription. Here's the step-by-step.

1) Go to the library's website, http://www.stratfordlibrary.org/.

2) Click on "Get it online with your library card"

3) Then click on "Search by subject" tab.

4) Choose "Current events and News."

5) Choose the New York Times -- or one of the other newspapers we subscribe to in that list, including the Christian Science Monitor or the Times of London.

6) You will be taken to the statewide iConn website, where you will enter the number on the back of your library card under the barcode. This logs you into the New York Times, provided by a service called InfoTrac.

So take advantage of your status as a library card holder, and read the New York Times online to your heart's content.

Caring for your car

2011-04-21T13:49:00.013-04:00

With the price of gas breaking the $4 mark, there is every reason to keep your car running efficiently. The library can help. One of the useful services the library subscribes to is the "Automotive Repair Reference Center," which is available online (for free) to anyone with a Stratford library card-- in the library or from your home computer.

This service gives you access to Repair Procedures, Service Bulletins and Recalls, and Wiring Diagrams for most US and foreign cars and noncommercial trucks back to the 1970s.

You may be saying to yourself, "Oh, I would never fix my own car." But even so, this service contains high-priority info alerts called "service bulletins" which can help every car owner, whether they consider themselves handy or not.

Service Bulletins are reports from the car manufacturers about common problems cropping up with certain models. If you look up your own vehicle (say, a 2007 Honda Civic) you will find a list of problems that the manufacturer thought were serious enough to tell mechanics, but not serious enough to warrant a recall. For instance, if your 2007 Honda Civic car clock has been randomly flashing the wrong time, you are not alone! Honda has figured out what makes this happen and you can get that problem solved, pronto.

And for those of you who do like to put on the overalls and break out the wrenches, the repair procedures include step-by-step instructions for repairing the car from bumper to bumper, with helpful diagrams and photographs.

To try out the Automotive Repair Reference Center, go to the library's webpage at http://www.stratfordlibrary.org/ and click on "Get it Online with your library card."

The Automotive Repair Reference Center is one of the services listed on that first page of resources. Call us at 203-385-4164 if you have any questions about using this service!

Some things never change -- reading old newspapers

2011-04-11T15:29:00.006-04:00

Everyone knows the thrill of opening up an old trunk in an attic, or pulling up floorboards in an old house, and finding an old newspaper tucked away. Every item in an old newspaper is fascinating once enough time has gone by, whether it's the ad for groceries that cost one-tenth of what they cost now, or the colorful language that reporters used to drum up interest in local crimes and scandals.

One of the newspapers you have access to online (with your Stratford Library card) is the historical Hartford Courant newspaper, which literally includes article beginning in 1764 and goes to 1922. While today the Hartford Courant focuses on the Hartford region, in the first 100 years of its life the Courant was "the" major newspaper for Connecticut, and covered all regions, including Stratford.

Searching for the keyword "Stratford" in the historical Courant database brings up some very interesting old items.

In this 1768 letter to the editor (shown at the top of this post), a resident of New Milford is complaining that a recent story in the paper about a gang of counterfeiters had falsely identified the criminals as coming from New Milford. Not so, says the letter-writer -- they were arrested in New Milford, but the miscreants were actually residents of Stratford.

If you'd like to explore the historical Hartford Courant yourself, click on this "Get it online" logo at the library's website and then choose "Search by subject." The historical Hartford Courant is listed under "Current events and news," and also under "Genealogy."

Support the Stratford Library

2011-04-04T15:08:00.007-04:00

The Mayor's proposed budget for the Stratford Library will be discussed at several public meetings next week. If the proposed cuts are not altered by the Town Council, the reduced library budget will result in cuts to library hours, cancellation of programs for all ages, reduction of staff, and fewer new materials to borrow.

Library supporters will have an opportunity to show their enthusiasm for the services, programs and materials the library has always provided, free of charge, to all residents, at three public meetings. The times and locations are shown below.

Even if you do not wish to speak, simply attending a meeting and wearing a red shirt or jacket helps support the library. Wear red to show = I am a library supporter.

Opportunities to address Town Council

Monday, April 11, 6 pm at Town Hall
Wednesday, April 13, 6:30 pm at Bunnell High School
Thursday, April. 14, 6:30 pm at Stratford High School

Poem of the Day: Ogden Nash

2011-04-01T10:15:00.007-04:00

April is Poetry Month! And our "Poem a day" display is up and running. To fit in with today's April Fool's theme, we feature three poems by Ogden Nash.

The Duck

Behold the duck.
It does not cluck.
A cluck it lacks.
It quacks.
It is specially fond
Of a puddle or pond.
When it dines or sups,
It bottoms ups.

The Ostrich

The ostrich roams the great Sahara
Its mouth is wide, its neck is narra.
It has such long and lofty legs
I’m glad it sits to lay its eggs.

The Fly

God in his wisdom made the fly
And then forgot to tell us why.

2011-03-29T16:31:00.004-04:00

Poem in Your Pocket Day
Thursday, April 14, 2011

Take a day for poetry this April, and join the Academy of American Poets in celebrating the third national “Poem in Your Pocket Day”, Thursday, April 14.

The idea is simple: select a poem, pocket it, carry it, and share it with family friends, and coworkers throughout the day. For more information or ideas on pocket poems, visit poets.org/pocket. Here are some easy ways to celebrate:

Keep a favorite poem in your pocket to read during the day at a local park.
Organize a lunch-time event at your workplace and invite your colleagues to share a meal and a poem.
Selecte a special poem from Poets.org and email it to a friend.
Put a poem in a loved one's lunchbox, backpack or briefcase.

For more ideas and free downloadable pocket poems, visit poets.org/pocket or, of course, visit us at the Stratford Library to enjoy the many books of poetry, classic and brand-new, that we have to lend you.

The library helps your personal bottom line

2011-03-16T17:51:00.008-04:00

Times are tough all over, and it's a good time for you to know all the different free services that are available at the public library. Here are some of our ideas for saving your pennies and getting the most out of Stratford's biggest bargain: your public library.

Budget buster: Pay Netflix $9.99 a month for their best deal on DVDs. Budget smart: Borrow as many movies as you want from the library for free -- on DVD or download from home. Savings: $9.99 a month.

Budget buster: Buy ten songs a week from iTunes. Budget smart: Borrow as many CDs as you want from the newest hits to old school -- or download songs from our library website. Savings: $9.99 per CD

Budget buster: Sign up for Internet access along with your phone so all your services are conveniently together - and your monthly bill is large, too. Budget smart: Use the library’s PCs with free Internet. Have a laptop? Our wifi is free too. Savings: $30 per month.

Budget buster: Spend $50 on a romantic dinner out in a restaurant for your sweetie. Budget smart: Use the library’s cookbooks to plan a meal, then shop for ingredients ($15.00) and make a romantic dinner at home. Savings: $35 on dinner for two.

Budget buster: Pick up Cosmo or Sports Illustrated when you see them at the grocery store. Budget smart: Read the latest magazines at the library for free. Savings: $5.00 per magazine.

Budget buster: You found a great airfare to Puerto Rico for spring break, so you buy a Spanish language CD at the airport bookstore to brush up on your Espanol on the plane. Budget smart: Borrow your travel guides and language CDs at the library for free. We have downloadable language tutorials too. Savings: $9.95 - $29.95 for travel guides and language CDs.

Budget buster: You always like to have the newest cell phone, the coolest car, and the biggest TV as soon as they come out. Budget smart: See what Consumer Reports has to say about the best cell phone plans, flat screen TVs, and credit cards before spending your hard-earned cash. The Library's subscription to Consumer Reports is available from home online as well as in the familiar magazine at the library. Savings: Tens or hundreds of dollars by choosing the best products for you and your budget.

If you'd like to learn about these or any other services offered by the Stratford Library, come pay us a visit, or call us at 203-385-4164. We'd love to tell you about Stratford's biggest bargain: your public library.

More help for job-seekers at the Stratford Library

2011-01-29T10:44:00.005-05:00

You heard it here first! The library has scheduled three free workshops for job-seekers in March 2011: Resume Basics, Interview Skills, and Who's in Your Network?

All three workshops will be on a Mondays from 10AM to noon in the library's Lovell Room. The workshops will be led by the Bridgeport Department of Labor jobs counselors. Participants may attend any one or all workshops. No sign-up is necessary. All are welcome to attend.

March 7: Resume Basics - Learn the do's and don'ts for creating an eye-catching resume. The workshop will be led by a DOL nationally certifed resume writer. Examples will be discussed and there will be plenty of time for questions! For individual one-on-one help, participants will be encouraged to follow-up by scheduling a consultation with a certified resume writer at the Bridgeport DOL office.

March 14: Interview Skills - The best resume in the world won't land that job unless you can ace the interview! Assess your ability to ask and answer common interview questions and improve interview techniques.

March 28: Who's in Your Network? - Experts agree that networking is critical to a successful job search. Discuss the importance of networking as well as its challenges. Learn how-to develop a list of contacts who can lead to your next job interview.

Visit the Download Dock

2011-01-13T12:30:00.005-05:00

Do you have an e-reader? If so, you should check out the eBooks available free through Stratford Library’s website. Visit the Download Dock to get started.

Ebooks, audiobooks and movies are available through the library’s subscription to Overdrive. Overdrive emphasizes popular fiction and nonfiction in downloadable audio and e-Books, which can be transferred to personal devices. Overdrive does not work with Kindles. However, it does work with the Nook (Barnes and Noble), several Sony MP3 players and readers, iPods, iPhones, and iPads. The complete list of compatible devices can be found at the Overdrive site.

It takes a few steps to get everything set up. You need a valid Stratford Library card, a compatible device, and a computer. Additional software must be downloaded to the computer and an account set up. All the instructions are on the Download Dock page.

Give it a try- we are getting new titles all the time. If you have questions, call us at 203-385-4164.

Snow closing

2011-01-12T07:12:00.003-05:00

Stratford Library will be closed Wednesday, January 12th due to the snow storm. The library will reopen on Thursday, January 13th at 10am. Any items due on 1/12 will now be due on 1/13, so don't worry about late fees. If you are looking for something to read or listen to while you are stuck at home, be sure to check our "Download Dock" for ebooks, audiobooks and more.

Struggling with high school homework? Teachers are available to help.

2010-12-13T11:24:00.012-05:00

STRATFORD LIBRARY/SCHOOLS OFFER “HOMEWORK HELP” Student Assistance Currently Available at Library

The Stratford Library’s Teen Services Department in collaboration with the Stratford School system currently offers after-school-hours assistance for high school students.

“HomeworkHelp@SLA” offers one-on-one help for students by Stratford high school teachers at the Library through May 2011. It is free and open to the public.

The sessions will focus on math and science but all subjects can be addressed depending on student need. Teachers will be on site at the library Thursdays from 6-8 pm and Saturdays and Sundays, 2-4 pm. All sessions will be held in the Library’s lower-level Board Room. No appointments are necessary, drop-ins are welcome.

For further information about “HomeworkHelp@SLA”, call the Library’s Teen Services Department at 203.385.4167.

The Library has a huge collection of books and DVDs for the student-who-needs-a-little-extra-help as well. Come in and talk to us about what's confusing you.

The Standard Deviants - Algebra Adventure. A youthful cast of performers, who believe no joke, skit, or costume is too corny as long as it helps a student remember something important, throw themselves into "The Adventurous World of College Algebra" by beginning with a spoof of "Raiders of the Lost Ark." Despite the lighthearted approach, this is a serious algebra review course, compiled under the direction of academic advisers.

Physics for the Utterly Confused is for students first or second semester non-calculus based physics courses, and is equally useful to anyone taking their first physics course. Problems are thoroughly explained, show all the math steps and explain all the concepts.

Chemistry Demystified. Chemistry will never be easy, but at least the mystery can be taken out of the equation. (Pun totally intended).

BOOKSCAN STATION NOW AVAILABLE AT LIBRARY

2010-11-29T12:14:00.005-05:00

Private Donation Makes New Equipment Possible

The Stratford Library has announced the addition of a BookScan Station for its patrons. The new equipment was made possible by a recent $5000 donation from a private contributor in honor of his parents.

The new BookScan Station makes scanning, saving and sharing a very easy process. Patrons are now able to scan, save and edit important documents and school papers. They can also share favorite book excerpts, old letters and photos online via email, Facebook or Twitter with colleagues and friends around the world. The station is located in the Reference Department of the Stratford Library during regular library hours. Librarians are on hand to assist.

The scanned images can be saved to a flash drive, emailed to one's personal email account, or printed out in color or black and white. There is no cost for the scanning service; the only cost is to print (15 cents for a black and white page, or one dollar for a color page).

The BookScan station can even scan a paper resume and convert the resume into a Word document that can be edited. This is invaluable for people who have not previously used computers and need to turn their resume into a file that can be emailed or posted online.

Library Director Barbara Blosveren acknowledged the addition. “The Stratford Library is pleased to be able to offer this invaluable new service to our patrons and we are most grateful to the Stratford donor who made it all possible.”

For further information call the Stratford Library Reference Department at 203.385.4161 or visit: www.LibraryScanStation.com.

Workshops for job seekers at Stratford Library

2010-10-27T17:04:00.006-04:00

The Library will offer two innovative workshops in November to introduce job seekers to two useful "tools" in their job search: the websites LinkedIn and Krazoom.

Monday, November 15 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. The hands-on workshop Get Connected with LinkedIn, taught by a Department of Labor Career Development Specialist, will show you how to set-up a professional networking profile on LinkedIn, build your network, connect and share information about job opportunities. Advance registration is required (register at the Reference Desk). To benefit from the program, you must have a working email account and a copy of your resume saved in .txt format. Call the Reference Desk for details at 203-385-4161

Monday, November 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You can find your next job on Krazoom : an innovative new website for your online job search site. Krazoom creator, Henning Seip, will demonstrate the unique benefits that set this database apart from all the other job search sites. With Krazoom, you match your skills and experience to hundreds of jobs you may not have ever considered.

Both workshops are free and open to the public. For more information, call the Adult Services Dept. at 203-385-4161.

Show your library card for special deals around Stratford

2010-10-04T17:09:00.005-04:00

Stratford Library & local businesses offer October and November discounts for Stratford Library patrons

Three dozen local Stratford business are offering discounts or promotional offers in October and November when you "show them your library card."

If you live in Stratford and don't have a library card, please bring ID to the Stratford Library to get one to take advantage of these exciting offers. A library card is free, and it only takes a few minutes to sign up.

The local businesses offering special discounts and offers in October and November include restaurants, florists, banks, and many other services. Take a look at the list of participating merchants and organizations, and then get out your library card!

Business owners invited to Chamber event at the Library

2010-09-29T13:03:00.006-04:00

Stratford Chamber of Commerce
invites Stratford business owners and entrepreneurs to
Business After Hours @ Stratford Library

Thursday, 10/7/2010
5:00 PM TO 7:00 PM
Cost: $10 Members, $20 Future members

Join the Stratford Chamber of Commerce, an affiliate of the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, for their "Business after hours" event at the Stratford Library (Lovell Room). Enjoy a selection of UNO Chicago Grill appetizers while Stratford Library staff highlight how library services can assist your business.

Call 203-335-3800 to preregister. Walk-ins are welcome, space permitting.

The Stratford Library + Your Business = A Great Partnership!

Tax forms -- the library won't let you down

2010-09-28T11:48:00.005-04:00

The Internal Revenue Service has announced that it will no longer mail out instructions and paper forms for annual income tax returns next year, saving the agency about $10 million annually as more Americans are filing online.

But that doesn't mean that the paper forms aren't available! The Stratford Library will continue to make the most common forms available in our lobby during March and April. If you need a tax form that we don't carry, you can ask the librarians to print it for you off the IRS website.

There is nothing pleasant about filing tax forms, but you may get some satisfaction in knowing that at least some of your tax dollars are paying for helpful, personalized service at your public library.

Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Event

2010-09-23T18:13:00.006-04:00

A Celebration of Latin Culture - Una Celebración de la Cultura Latina

The Hispanic Heritage of Stratford committee invites you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a festive kick-off event at the Stratford library, on Saturday, September 25th (noon - 4 pm).

The kick-off event will feature art work from Stratford schools students on themes of Hispanic artists, poetry and instruments used in Latin music. All families are welcome to admire the artwork of Stratford's students. The library will also have on display books, CDs and DVDs infused with Hispanic Heritage-- all available to take home.

A wonderful online resource to delve into during Hispanic Heritage Month is www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/, a joint project of the Smithsonian, the Library of Congress, the National Gallery of Art and many other of our most important cultural institutions. Here are just a few of the opportunities this website makes available:

Listen to best-selling author Isabel Allende discussing her writing.
Watch a video on the royal armour of Spain.
Share your family's story with StoryCorpsHistorias, an initiative to record the diverse stories and life experiences of Latinos in the United States.

Truly a Great Festival -- the Great Stratford Bird Festival

2010-09-01T14:26:00.014-04:00

You may not think of yourself as a "birder," but who wouldn't want to spend the last golden days of summer enjoying the natural beauty of Stratford and our neighboring towns?

The 3rd Annual Great Stratford Bird Festival will offer a truly amazing array of activities not just for those who love birds for anyone who enjoys the outdoors.

The Festival takes place over the weekend of Sept. 24-26.

Over 35 different activities -- many free or low-cost -- include boat trips, marsh paddles, urban bird walks, demonstrations of decoy carving, kite-flying, story-telling, and art exhibits.

This year’s festival features many opportunities to see birds in their natural habitats. Sign up for one of the many field trip opportunities to see birds of prey in flight, swallows in migration, or come to a bird of prey presentations.

Even if you're not much of an outdoors type, you might want to sign up for the New-England-style fundraising dinner with the event's honorary chairperson, Phil Donahue.

Mr. Donahue was an avid of the Bald Eagle Festival which was, until recently, held in Essex, Connecticut. Mr. Donahue is an interested birder in his own right and maintains his personal home and yard to maximize his birding opportunities.

The full schedule can be seen at the site for the Great Stratford Bird Festival.

When the festival is over, why not pick up some books or CDs at the library to further your "bird-u-cation"?

	Birding by Ear You will be amazed the first time you step outside after listening to these CDs, by how the orchestra of bird song begins to sort itself out into individual instruments. As an added benefit, this CD will bewitch any resident cats.
	What should you do if you find a baby bird on the sidewalk? Is throwing rice at a wedding actually bad for birds? The Bird Watching Answer Book answers perplexing questions about birds in an entertaining, clear format.
	On Sept. 25, the Stratford Library's Children's Room will offer a "Bird Storytime" from 10:30 am to 11:15 am for preschoolers and up. Please register at 203.385.4165. And don't forget to watch the skies for birds!

Mystery book

2010-08-23T12:16:00.011-04:00

This object was sold at auction in New York in 2008 for $1500. Notice how the side is decorated to look like an antique book, with raised ridges on the "spine" and a red label for the "title."

Is it the world's most expensive decorator Kleenex box?

It's not a Kleenex box. It is a 17th century French travelling commode, in the shape of a book. The auction catalog helpfully noted that the size is "Folio" -- the largest size for a book. This antiquarian "book" has full calf leather covers elaborately decorated with a stamped geometric design, and an attractive spine with a "title" label in red morocco leather trimmed with gilt.

The auction house did not know who was the original owner of this antique. They guessed it might have been a military commander or some other important person who would have spent a lot of time travelling in "uncivilized" lands but still wanted to travel in style and comfort.

What is the title of this strange biblio-pot? "Historia Universalis," or "A universal history." Perhaps that was the maker's comment on the "universality" of the object's function!

Putting the "fun" in fundraising

2010-08-14T11:32:00.018-04:00

Coming up on Saturday, Aug. 21, Short Beach will be the site of a "MADD Dash" to raise funds for the Connecticut chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving. You can participate in either the 5K run or the 2 mile walk, and there's a "kids' fun run" for eleven and under. Trophies will be awarded to the top winners with special prizes for the top Stratford winners.

The 5K (3.1 miles) course is scenic and flat, and the organization couldn't be any worthier, so take a look at their website to sign up: www.hitekracing.com/madd/.

Meanwhile, back at the library...

Everyone who has been involved in an advocacy or charitable group knows that a frustratingly large amount of time has to be spent on fund-raising. Don't reinvent the wheel: come to the library and borrow some resources when you find yourself searching for new and better ideas to raise money.

	*The Accidental Fundraiser: A Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Money for Your Cause* by Stephanie Roth and Mimi Ho. This book is a terrific resource for new fundraisers, or even veterans who need to brush up on the basics. The authors have found a way to turn fundraising into a manageable process with worksheets and step-by-step, detailed instructions.
	*Great Fundraising Ideas for Youth Groups,* by David Lynn and Kathy Lynn. Although this book was written with church groups in mind, most of the ideas can be adapted to any youth program. A creative collection of over 150 ways to raise money for youth activities and charity projects.

Shakespeare carries on

2010-08-04T19:30:00.008-04:00

Shakespeare in the Sun
Saturday, Aug. 14, 2 pm.
Grounds of the Stratford Festival Theatre

A summer tradition in Stratford is the outdoor performances given by the Hudson Shakespeare Company at the Library. Performing with a minimum of props and costumes, but a maximum of drama and flair, the Hudson Shakespeare Company bring Shakespeare's words to life in the town named after his own.

The last play in the series will be The Tempest, on Saturday, Aug. 14, at 2 pm. As a special event, this last performance will be on the grounds of the Stratford Festival Theatre. Bring a chair and a picnic to enjoy the last play of the summer season.

O wonder! How many goodly creatures are there here! How beauteous mankind is! O brave new world That has such people in't!"

The Brakettes Wow at DeLuca Field

2010-07-22T13:40:00.021-04:00

The Brakettes are the most famous name in softball, with 28 national championships, 3 ISF World Championships, 19 ASA National Hall of Famers, and 11 Olympians. Since 1947, the Brakettes have made Stratford their home, and thousands have seen the Red and White work their magic on the field.

And though it seems like summer is only half-way over, it's the last week of the Brakettes's regular season. Have you gone out to DeLuca Field to catch a game by these hometown heroes yet? In a world where tickets to big-league professional sports games cost hundreds of dollars apiece, the fantastic athletes of the Brakettes offer sports lovers the kind of classic team action and up-close excitement that you may have thought disappeared in your childhood.

The Brakettes are a jewel of Stratford, so swing on by DeLuca Field and show them some hometown love. The last games of the year are at home, except for the WMS Championship series at West Haven's Biondi Field. Bleacher seats are very reasonable -- less than the cost of a movie.

7/24 Saturday LADY GATORS, PA -- HOME GAME 7:00 p.m.
7/25 Sunday LADY GATORS, PA -- HOME GAME 12 noon
7/27 Tuesday ST. LOUIS SAINTS, MO -- HOME GAME 7:00 p.m.
7/28 Wednesday POLAR CRUSH, WORCESTER -- HOME GAME 7:00 p.m.
7/29- Aug 1 WMS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP, Biondi Field, West Haven, CT.

If seeing the Brakettes in person sparks an interest in softball in your family, you might want to pick this up at the library to get you started towards softball stardom: Winning Softball for Girls, by Mark Gola.

And after summer is over, carry the enthusiasm for the game into the school year with this innovative book of science projects: Home Run! Science Projects With Baseball and Softball, by Robert L. Bonnet.

Settle into Summertime- Have you read these yet?

2010-07-21T12:31:00.014-04:00

Fabulously Fashionable by Holly McQueen - You can't go wrong with a British chick lit title like this! Publisher's Weekly call the heroine "chamingly inept". Fortunate Harbor by Emilie Richards - With a storyline involving five girlfriends in Florida, what could be a better "girlfriend/beach" read? Homecoming by JoAnn Ross - When former Navy SEAL and bad boy Sax Douchett returns to small-town Shelter Bay, Oregon, the adjustment is tough. And what to do about Sheriff Kara Conway, his best friend's girl? Grab this paperback and settle in at the beach! The Island by Elin Hilderbrand - It was to have been "mother-daughter time" on Tuckernuck Island off Nantucket before daughter Chess got married. But then, Chess ends the engagement, and her former fiance dies. Promises to Keep by Janet Green - One summer, a family gathers together in Maine, after each person receives a shocking note. Restless by William Boyd - Her mother was a spy during World War II - but the daughter only found out recently! Still Missing by Chevy Stevens - Realtor Annie O'Sullivan is abducted and held by a psychopath for a year. This suspenseful novel unfolds a Annie remembers the horror, and works with her therapist. Thin, Rich, Pretty by Beth Harbison - Years before, two girls had a contentious relationship at summer camp. Library Journal calls this a "juicy read between book club picks". The Family Beach House by Holly Chamberlin - Take a seaside estate in an Ogunquit location and mix in some family drama and what do you have? A beach book! Uptown by Virginia DeBerry & Donna Grant - When circumstances bring Avery Lyons back to Harlem after 20 years in the Foreign Service, she must find her own way through family turmoil and triumph, selfishness and selflessness.

Summer Reading

2010-07-14T16:42:00.003-04:00

Does it feel like the only things you read these days are your to-do lists? Well, let us offer you a few different reading lists to make your summer a fun one, at least "reading-wise"! Stop by the various service desks at the Library, and we'll be happy to offer booklists that we've created, and we'll also show you a terrific database called "NoveList", so that you can create your own list of titles and authors to try.

Recipe for a Wonderful 4th of July weekend

2010-06-29T11:15:00.022-04:00

Recipe for a Wonderful 4th of July weekend

On Friday night, start with a free concert in Boothe Park by the US Army's fantastic big band, the Jazz Ambassadors.
Add an enthusiastic audience to create a mix of patriotism and fun.
Now mix in a trip to Short Beach on Saturday night for a free fireworks show.
Bake well in the late day sun and enjoy with a picnic supper.
Serves a crowd -- so come early for the best seats!

For more information about either event, call the town's Recreation Dept. at 203-385-4052 or check their website, www.townofstratford.com/recreation

Free Concert! The U.S. Army's Jazz Ambassadors Friday, July 2 • 7:00 p.m. Boothe Memorial Park (Bring a chair or blanket) Rain venue: Flood School Auditorium

Stratford’s Annual Fireworks Saturday, July 3rd Atwood Express Band Concert on deck at 7:00 pm Lynn Lewis + Friends at Gull's Landing at 7:30 pm Fireworks display at 9:30 pm Short Beach Park

Why not borrow some patriotic music from the library to add to the spirit of your holiday?

Kate Smith, Lee Greenwood, and Glenn Miller are among the stars performing classic American favorites on this CD, "Stars and Stripes Forever."
You haven't really heard Sousa marches until you have heard them played by the Marines --Sousa wrote many of these marches while bandmaster of the Marines.
The Ceremonial Brass, Max Impact, The Singing Sergeants and They Symphony Orchestra -- all performers of the United States Air Force Band -- collaborated on several of the pieces on this inspiring collection, "Home of the Brave."

Nonfiction that reads like fiction....

2010-06-22T17:24:00.033-04:00

You say you're not a big reader, but you love hearing about events that are true? Then visit our display in the reference room of the library, where we currently display books such as these, demonstrating that truth can indeed be stranger than fiction!

Be amazed at the two significant individuals with different impacts on the World's Fair in 1893 - one a mass murderer, one a talented planner and organizer of the exposition. (Read "Devil in the White City: murder, magic, and madness at the fair that changed America" by Erik Larson)
Discover the details of the 1820 wreck of the whaleship "Essex", the true story at the heart of the famous novel "Moby Dick". (Read "In the Heart of the Sea: the tragedy of the whaleship Essex" by Nathaniel Philbrick)
Put yourself in the shoes of the runners described in an incredible tale of physical endurance! (Read "Born to Run: a hidden tribe, superathletes, and the greatest race the world has never seen " by Christopher McDougall)

Beaches and Books

2010-06-15T11:18:00.017-04:00

Stratford's beaches open this weekend. Do you have your beach sticker on your car? If you haven't received a beach sticker yet, the Recreation Department's website has info on how to get yours.

Of course, if you're planning to spend any time on the beach you'll want to pack a summer beach book in your tote bag. This summer the library is hoping to add some fun to your summertime by offering a no-pressure, no-stress Adult Summer Reading Program.

No meetings!
No required reading. Read whatever you like.

Just stop by the library and tell us what book or books you've read -- even if it's just one. A weekly raffle will award great prizes donated by local restaurants and businesses.

The Adult Summer Reading program starts on Monday, June 21. You can sign up the first day or any day over the summer. Come on in and see what we have to offer! Prizes big and small will be awarded weekly to our reading clubbers.

Speaking of beach reads, here are some good reads while you soak up the rays:

On Folly Beach by Karen White. Emmy Hamilton has opened a secondhand bookstore in Folly Beach as she tries to make a new life after her husband's death. When she discovers love notes hidden in the books, she may have stumbled on a mysterious and tragic love story in the town's past.
The Beach House, by Jane Green. Eccentric and broke, widow Nan Powell decides to turn her beloved old home in Nantucket into a bed-and-breakfast. The cast of characters who come to stay find their lives changed in surprising ways.
The Last Beach Bungalow, by Jennie Nash. April and her architect husband have grown apart while she underwent cancer treatment, but they hope that a move to the lavish new house he designed will be a fresh start. Instead, April finds herself inexplicably drawn to a small beach bungalow that calls to her in some mysterious way.

Adult Summer Reading

2010-06-09T10:34:00.011-04:00

Remember the first-ever Adult Summer Reading Program last year? This summer, we're doing it again to help you jump-start your reading! Register on June 21 or thereafter at the Adult Reference Desk, and fill out a "reading slip" for each book you read. Not only will you "water your mind", but you may win one of the weekly prize drawings! A festive kick-off with goodies and gifts (while they last) is on June 21. The last day for the program is August 14.

Some of the drawing prizes have been donated by the following businesses and organizations. We thank everyone for their enthusiasm and interest in offering incentives for your summer reading!

Acapulcos Mexican Family Restaurant & Cantina, Blue Point Bar & Grill, Goody Bassett's Olde Fashioned Ice Cream Shoppe, Millers Hallmark, Oronoque Farms, Rivenova Italian Restaurant, Shell Station Restaurant, Sikorsky Financial Credit Union, Stratford Brakettes, Stephen's Pub & Grille, Stratford Family YMCA, This and That Consignments, Collectibles and Curios

Is your front yard a beautiful "site" to see?

2010-06-07T12:11:00.027-04:00

Seventh District Councilwoman Kimberly Meuse announced this week that the Stratford Beautification Committee is seeking nominations for the twelfth annual Stratford Beautification Awards Program. This is your chance to nominate properties you believe worthy of recognition, whether it's your own property or one you've admired around town.

This year, the focus will be on front yards and the curb appeal of local properties. The Committee is interested in homes and businesses that have attractive landscaping, flower beds or gardens -- or properties that feature unique fences, walkways, lighting fixtures or door treatments in Stratford. Nomination forms are available online. For more information, contact Town Planner Dave Killeen at 203.385.4017.

Want to add loads of "eye appeal" to your home and garden? Boost your chances of winning a Beautification Award with these books available at the Stratford Library:

*Curb Appeal Idea Book* by Mary Ellen Polson. Spruce up the front of your home and create a good first impression. You'll find hundreds of ideas for the front of the house, from the curb to the front door and every space in between
*Hardscaping: How to Use Structures, Pathways, Patios & Ornaments in Your Garden,* by Keith Davitt. "Hardscaping" is just what it sounds like: the elements of your yard made of brick, concrete, stone or lumber. This book has loads of photos and projects from a simple concrete birdbath to an elaborate masonry walkway.
*The Well-Decorated Garden* will take you step by step through projects to take your outdoor space from "okay" to "wow!". You can make pebble-covered flowerpots, butterfly boxes, tile plant markers, or adorable ladybug cottages.
Do you feel like your front yard is too dark, too small or too barren to create an attractive scene? In Paradise Found, Rebecca Cole presents simple and beautiful solutions to gardening in small, difficult, or awkward spaces.

Library Book Sale is center of town activity this Saturday

2010-06-03T13:11:00.012-04:00

This Saturday, June 5, the Stratford Library will be at the center of a buzz of activity. Come on down, park in our huge lot behind the library, and take advantage of these opportunities for free and low-cost family fun. The Annual Stratford Library Book Sale runs from 5:30 pm Thursday, June 3 to Sunday afternoon June 6 at 4 pm. No admission charge. At this major library fundraiser you will find thousands of gently used books for all ages, movies, CDs, and LPs. Prices vary during the sale; see our Library website for details. Location: 2203 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615. Healthy Stratford Council Walk through Stratford's Historic District. Leaves from the Perry House, on Broad Street adjacent to the Library's parking lot, 10 am on Saturday. Free. The 2.5 mile narraated walk will pass such landmarks as the Judson House, the Edward Curtis House, and the Old Episcopal Burying Ground. Please register in advance by calling 385-4090. Children's Carnival and Sidewalk Crafts Showcase at the Sterling House on Main Street, two doors down from the Library, Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm on Saturday. Free. Art Show sponsored by the Stratford Arts Guild, in front of the Library, Saturday, 10 am - 6 pm on Saturday. Free. Stratford Arts Guild members will show photography, jewelry, watercolors and other works of art. Rib Night sponsored by the Rotary Club, 6 pm at the Baldwin Center, next to the Library. Tickets are $30.00 each; proceeds benefit the Dictionary/Thesaurus Project for Stratford and other Rotary projects for the community. Call 385-4055 for tickets.

2010-06-01T12:45:00.000-04:00

Corsairs Over Connecticut

2010-05-24T17:00:00.003-04:00

Spotlight on: Vintage Aircraft and the Heroes who Flew Them

What the first single-engine U.S. fighter to top 400 mph?
What plane was called "The Angel of Okinawa" by US troops and "Whistling Death" by Japanese soldiers?
What is the official aircraft of Connecticut?

The answer to all three questions is the Vought F4U Corsair. Not only was the F4U designed and built here in Stratford at Vought-Sikorsky, but the propellers and the engines were built in Connecticut too, at the Hamilton Standard Co. and Pratt and Whitney Aircraft. The Corsair F4U is an all-Connecticut fighter plane.

An event called "Wings and Wheels" will be celebrating the 70th Anniversary of Connecticut’s State Aircraft, The F4U Corsair, this Memorial day Weekend (May 29-30) at Sikorsky Memorial Airport.

Five different F4U Corsairs, a Sikorsky Seahorse, a Dehavilland Beaver Floatplane, and a Sopwith 1 1/2 Strutter will be among the many vintage and modern aircraft on display.

In addition, you can see vintage and collector cars, vintage trucks and military vehicles, meet NASA Astronaut Joe Edwards, participate in science demos, and have fun at the "Hangar Dance." The event will benefit the Discovery Museum.

For more information: (203) 372-3521 X124 or www.wingsandwheelsct.org/

At the Stratford Library, we have a better-than-average collection of books on the history of aviation, with an emphasis, of course, on the contributions of Ivan Sikorsky and the Sikorsky Aircraft corporation. If this weekend's "Wings and Wheels" event sparks your interest in these unusual bent-winged planes that flew from World War II to the 1960s, come on in and borrow one of these titles:

Corsair Aces of World War II by Mark Styling. Chock-full of excellent color illustrations, this book focuses mainly on 'I was there' first-hand accounts of flying the Corsair in battle.
Whistling Death: The Test Pilot's Story of the F4U Corsair by Boone T. Guyton. Told by Boone Guyton, an experimental test pilot at Chance Vought, this is the true story of the rush to produce the F4U Corsair, the Navy fighter that brought America air superiority over the Japanese Zero in World War II.
Corsair: The F4U in World War II and Korea, by Barrett Tillman. This fast-paced history begins with the nerve-wracking test flights of the 1940s and concludes with the F4Us that were active thirty-eight years later. Placed skillfully in between are the stories that gave birth to the legend, including the Medal of Honor recipient who shot down twenty-five enemy planes, and the details of the combat missions of Charles A. Lindbergh.

The Bridgeport Regional Business Council -- make them part of your support group

2010-05-18T17:35:00.025-04:00

Spotlight on: The Bridgeport Regional Business Council

The "Navigating Opportunities" workshop originally scheduled for June 2, 2010 has been cancelled. The BRBC expects to reschedule it later in the fall. If you'd like to be notified about this or other BRBC events, please email Mary Dean at

As you think about your business support group -- the friends and business acquaintances who can offer advice or lend a hand when you need it -- don't forget to include the Stratford Library!

These three new books -- all just published in 2010 -- can help steer the new entrepreneur towards success, or help an established small business owner "tune up" your business-building skills.

How to Build a Business and Sell it for Millions, by Jack Garson. Garson, a strategy and transaction consultant, has a unique perspective to getting your new business off the ground: he teaches you to think about the future "sellability" of your business from the very beginning. That's the secret, he believes, to creating a profitable, sustainable venture.
*Start Your Own Business and Hire Yourself: Insider Tips for Successful Self-Employment in Any Economy*, by Suzanne Caplan . This timely book shows how to get financing in hard times for small business loans, including up-to-date coverage on the implications of Obama's stimulus initiatives on SBA programs.
*Making Money from Home: How to Run a Successful Home-Based Business* by Donna Partow . Partow writes from the perspective of a married woman who wants to stay home with her children but also earn money. Still, her step-by-step advice can benefit anyone wants to develop their own business from home

Fun times in Connecticut... and special times at Boothe Park

2010-05-13T12:17:00.009-04:00

One of our favorites Connecticut treasures, Boothe Memorial Park in Stratford opens Sunday, May 16, with a free antique car show, art, music, drama and hands-on demonstrations from 1 to 4 p.m. at the estate on Main St. Putney. Classic cars will be among the attractions during opening day. The car show opens at 9 a.m. Other actitivies will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at the former estate on Main Street Putney. There is no charge for admission on this special day.

Entries into a car show will begin arriving the park at 9 a.m. This is the first official car show to be held in conjunction with opening day at Boothe Park. Connecticut Cruise News is the official media sponsor for the event, and the Eastern Packard Club and Connecticut Seaport Car Club expect close to 200 vintage and special interest cars from all over Connecticut as well as street rods, trucks, customs, stock original restored cars and antiques.

All 20 turn-of-the century buildings on the Boothe estate will be open to the public, many manned by tour guides, including the homestead, geological display, ice-house, out-house and chapel. Sheep shearing, spinning, weaving and turn-of-the century machines will be displayed. The Stratford Community Band will perform, and young artists will display their work. Visitors can also tour the elaborate model train collection and accessories; the blacksmith shop with working smithy; the observatory with its highly accurate telescope; the amateur radio clubhouse and equipment; and the genealogy library. The park was the estate of the Boothe family for many generations and was willed to the town in 1949. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes many buildings and attractions on the grounds. In the event of rain, the car show will be rescheduled to Sunday, May 23.

Opening day schedule 9 a.m.: Antique Car Show Opens, Main Street Putney, field 12:30 p.m.: “Arts in the Park” Student Art Exhibit, Coliseum 1:30 p.m.: Stratford Community Band, Band Shell 3 p.m.: Sheep Shearing Demonstration, pen east of Ice House Ongoing activities and exhibits (1-4 p.m.) • Museum tours of the buildings • Visit the sheep in their pens (behind the Carriage Barn) • Model Railroading (Railway Building) • Rug weaving demonstrations in the Americana Barn • Antique Car Show on the Main Street Putney open field • Demos in the Blacksmith Shop • Boothe photo exhibit in the Summer Cottage/Genealogy Library • Rose care talks in the Rose Garden • Astronomy talks in the Observatory • Amateur radio discussions in Clubhouse • Spinning demonstrations in the Homestead Refreshments will be served on the lawn outside of the Homestead and in the field with the antique auto show.

More scenes and sights in Connecticut...

The library's extensive travel guide section has up-to-date travel guides on Shanghai, Latvia and Malaysia, but we also have a great selection of books on the hidden treasures and nearby adventures of Connecticut. 52 Weekends in Connecticut: Day Trips and Easy Getaways from the Litchfield Hills to Long Island Sound, by Andi Marie Cantele. Full of year-round activities and fun excursions for both first-time visitors and long-time residents, 52 Weekends in Connecticut traverses the entire state, from the bucolic Northwest Corner to the Quiet Corner in the northeast, along the shoreline facing Long Island Sound and dozens of points in between.

Connecticut: Off the Beaten Path, by Tom Bross.

Even if you've lived in Connecticut for many years, Connecticut Off the Beaten Path shows you a side of the Nutmeg State you never knew existed. Explore the beginnings of the American Impressionist art movement with a drive along the Connecticut Art Trail, tour one of Litchfield County’s little-known wineries, or answer the siren call of the bagpipes at the Annual Scottish Festival in Goshen.

One Book, One Stratford -- reaching Stratford and beyond

2010-05-10T16:34:00.003-04:00

Stratford Library's recent "One Book, One Stratford" event brought an impressive number of people to the library for the first time, drawn by their interest in author Jennifer Baszile's memoir. Prof. Baszile's book is a candid look at growing up during the 1970s-- a transitional time in American race relations-- when school integration was the law of the land but informal barriers to social integration were still prevalent. Many people told us they appreciated these discussions as a chance to share their own stories and learn from the experiences of others. One of our library staff members, Ann Stockman, recently had the opportunity to tell Prof. Camille Cooper of Yale University's Comer School Development Program about the success of the "One book" program. The two women met at a public program on improving public schools, which Ann attended as part of her involvement with Stratford's C.A.R.E. group. After viewing pictures and receiving email about our program with author Jennifer Baszile, Prof. Cooper has expressed interest in being kept informed about about future happenings at the library.

Spotlight on: C.A.R.E. Ann is an active member of the Stratford group, Stratford Citizens Addressing Racial Equality. C.A.R.E. volunteers work to open communication among residents of all ages, socio-economic groups, races and ethnicities in non-confrontational ways to break down stereotypes, build trust and find ways to work together. For more information on how Stratford C.A.R.E., or to become a member, please contact Stratford Community Services at 203.385.4095 or send an e-mail to communityservices@townofstratford.com.

Job hunting? We can help.

2010-05-04T11:12:00.005-04:00

At last night's special meeting on the town budget, a half-dozen residents voiced concerns about a proposed reduction to the town's requested library budget. Robin Jopp, a local artist and teacher, spoke about how she was able to use the library's resources and services in her job hunt when she was out of work for ten months. "I relied on the multi-faceted services at the library, where I used computers to search for work, file for unemployment claims and redo my resume." We're delighted to report that Robin did succeed in finding a new position where she is very happy. Are you also looking for a job? Or perhaps someone you know? Here are seven ways the Stratford Library can help you. 1) Use our free internet access. Your library card can sign you up for four hours a day of free internet access for job searching or applying for jobs online. 2) Take advantage of our books on updating your resume. The library has literally dozens of books on how to prepare a resume, from the most simple ("Resumes for Dummies") to specialized books with advice for job-seekers with unusual circumstances, like former servicemen and women, or former stay-at-home moms. 3) Use the library computers to update or refresh your software skills. All of the library's public computers are outfitted with the latest versions of Microsoft Office. 4) Prepare for a job interview by researching the company you are interested in with our online news and financial sources. 5) Do you feel left behind by the online revolution? Take one of our free classes on computer basics, or get help signing up for a free email account. 6) Haven't been on a job interview in several years? We have DVDs and books to help you prepare to ace the interview. 7) Feeling down is almost inevitable when you are out of work. The library is a place you can chat with your neighbors, see a free film, join in a book discussion, borrow a funny book, read all the local papers, or check out your favorite tunes on CD. The best things in life are free -- at the public library. Information, entertainment and a sense of community are all yours for free at the Stratford Library.

Spring has sprung, and Project Green Sweep sweeps back through town

2010-04-29T12:45:00.000-04:00

Stratford’s annual town-wide spring cleanup program, Project Green Sweep, is coming up this weekend, on Saturday, May 1st. A kick-off rally with free t-shirts and water bottles starts at 9 a.m. on the Town Hall Green. Mayor John Harkins, the Stratford Beautification Committee and the Stratford Conservation Commission are sponsoring the all-volunteer project. Stratford will be one of 17,000 communities participating nationally in the Great American Cleanup. Approximately 200 volunteers have participated annually in Project Green Sweep. Along with the River Clean-Up, a joint effort including Milford and Shelton to clean up the Housatonic River shoreline, the groups involved collected over 37 tons of litter and bulk wastes last year from parks, schools, community areas, and other public areas of our fair city. Besides the fun and satisfaction of working on a community event, participants will receive excellent swag: complimentary T-shirts with the Project Green Sweep logo, bottles of water and light refreshments at a rally scheduled for 9:00 am on the Town Hall Green. All are asked to bring tools. However, gloves, bags, and trash posts will be distributed to those who are unable to provide their own. To volunteer in the spring cleanup, interested persons should contact Town Planner David Killeen at 203-385-4017 or by email at dkilleen@townofstratford.com.

Little-known movie gems on the screen

2010-04-26T10:58:00.004-04:00

A film buff's pick of great films you never heard of-- April 26-29, 2010 in Stratford The Stratford Library, 2203 Main Street in Stratford will present its fourth annual film festival of little-seen movies, “Great Movies You Missed”, beginning Monday, April 26 through Thursday, April 29, 2010. The series is free and open to the public. “Great Movies You Missed” will highlight five critically acclaimed films that – for whatever reason – did not reach a wide audience during their general release. One of this year’s films is a recent Oscar nominee while another is a rarely shown comedy from 1980. The library series will feature guest film critics Joe Meyers from the Connecticut Post and Tom Holehan of Elm City Newspapers for commentary prior to the screenings. The complete schedule for “Great Movies You Missed” is: April 26: “Goodbye Solo” (2009): When Senegalese taxi driver Solo picks up William, an elderly patron in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the older man hires him for another trip in two weeks. But as they continue to talk, an unusual friendship grows and Solo soon realizes that William plans to kill himself on his next trip. “One of the year’s 10 best films!” – New York Times. Shown at noon. Rated R, 91 minutes. April 27: “Every Little Step” (2009): An up-close look at the behind-the-scenes drama of producing the 2006 Broadway revival of “A Chorus Line”. This fascinating documentary draws parallels between the interactions of the aspiring actors and the events of the play while also revealing never-before-seen footage of the original classic and its creators. Shown at noon. Rated PG-13, 93 minutes. April 28: “A Serious Man” (2009): Larry Gopnik (Golden Globe nominee Michael Stuhlbarg) hits a severe “rough patch” as he journeys through an eventful mid-life crisis. Oscar winning directors Joel & Ethan (“Fargo”, “No Country for Old Men”) Cohen’s 1960s set dark Jewish-culture send-up was a surprise Academy Award nominee this year for “Best Picture”. Shown at noon. Rated R, 106 minutes. April 29: “One False Move” (1991): Edge-of-your-seat thriller about two drug dealers and their female cohort who commit a string of bloody murders in Los Angeles and then flee to hide out in a small town in Arkansas. Bill Paxton and Billy Bob Thornton star in this riveting drama. Shown at noon. Rated R, 105 minutes. April 29: “Just Tell Me What You Want” (1980): Bitchy upper-class comedy about an obnoxious tycoon (Alan King) who drives his long-time mistress (Ali MacGraw, surprisingly effective) into the arms of a younger man and then does everything he can to get her back. Little-seen comic gem will be introduced by Connecticut Post arts critic Joe Meyers. Shown at 7 pm. Rated R, 112 minutes. All movies will be shown uncut and in widescreen format. The film festival, recommended for adult audiences, will be held in the library’s Lovell Room. For further information, call the Stratford Library’s Public Relations and Programming Office at 203.385.4162.

One book One Stratford -- reaching Stratford and beyond

2010-04-21T19:02:00.005-04:00

Spotlight on: C.A.R.E. Ann is an active member of the Stratford group, Stratford Citizens Addressing Racial Equality. C.A.R.E. volunteers work to open communication among residents of all ages, socio-economic groups, races and ethnicities in non-confrontational ways to break down stereotypes, build trust and find ways to work together. For more information on how Stratford C.A.R.E., or to become a member, please contact Stratford Community Services at 203.385.4095 or send an e-mail to communityservices@townofstratford.com.

Broadway at the Stratford Library

2010-04-21T15:31:00.014-04:00

Are you excited about the Tony nominations coming out in May? Do you use your time in the shower to belt out "Cabaret"? Could you have been a toe-tapping, high-stepping Broadway babe in a previous life? Then we have a few suggestions for you. First of all, take a trip down to the library on Thursday or Friday to see the terrific collection of Broadway books and DVDs that we have.

Piano scores for Broadway favorites? We got 'em. DVDs capturing terrific stage performances of classics like Oklahoma, Rent, and Fosse? Yes, yes, yes. Come on in and indulge your Broadway fantasies with a little help from the library.

And as a second act... Please join us this Saturday, April 24, at our annual fundraiser for the library's book collection, Broadway Comes to Stratford. It's like a festive cocktail party with performances by Broadway vocalists and musicians. It's always fun, always sparkly, and it supports our library. (So, for example, we could add even more Broadway treasures to our music and DVD collection!)

If you'd like be a guest at this annual event to benefit the library, call Heather at 203.385.4166. Tickets start at $75. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

The library will be closed to the public this weekend so we can set up and host this special event. Our hours this week are Monday - Thursday, 10 am - 8 pm, Friday 10 am - 5 pm, and then reopening as usual on Monday morning at 10 am.

Music, magic and applause raise funds for the Library

2010-04-14T18:16:00.010-04:00

The Stratford Library Board of Trustees presents its annual major fundraiser for the library on Saturday, April 24 beginning at 6:30 pm. The seventh annual “Broadway Comes to Stratford” is a gala evening of musical vignettes, exciting hors d’ouevres, open cocktail buffet, and delectable desserts. For just one evening each year, the library is transformed into a multi-stage cabaret. Throughout the evening, party-goers visit three different "sets" that have risen up like magic in the normally quiet rooms of the library, where they enjoy the talents of Broadway-trained vocalists and musicians. The grand finale in the Main Lobby sends everyone home with a smile and a song. This year's event features top-notch entertainment including Broadway soprano Mara Bonde, accompanied by Allen Bonde. The Connecticut Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Sayard Stone, features violin soloist Bernice Stochek Friedson. Pianist David Childs performs during intermission breaks. The evening also features a silent auction of a variety of prize packages. All proceeds benefit the library’s book collection. Tickets for the event are available in three separate categories: Supporting Cast ($75), Orchestra ($100) and Producer ($150). Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Seating is limited and reservations are required by calling the library at 203.385.4166. Attire is semi-formal.

Actor/singer/dancer Kirby Ward performs in the Main Lobby at 2009's "Broadway comes to Stratford." Yes, that is a piano in front of the Check-out Desk!

Earth Day turns 40 this year

2010-04-07T14:34:00.018-04:00

Who would you guess was the original founder of Earth Day?

	Rachel Carson, the pioneering author of Silent Spring.
	Jacques Cousteau, the world-famous explorer, photographer, and ecologist.
	Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin.

The answer is Senator Nelson. In the mid-1960s, Senator Nelson observed that more and more Americans were expressing concern about the health of our rivers, oceans and wildlife, and yet politicians didn't seem to be getting the message. In 1969 he conceived the idea of a single day of teach-ins and gatherings, a "nationwide, grassroots demonstration on behalf of the environment." That was the first Earth Day, on April 22, 1970.

Forty years later, every schoolchild reminds his parents to recycle, and you can buy organic foods (and the canvas reusable bag to put them in) at Wal-mart. How will we celebrate Earth Day in another 40 years? Will our progress towards a more sustainable lifestyle speed up, or slow down?

At the library we have books and films on all aspects of environmental questions. Here are just a few you might find interesting:

In A World Without Ice, geophysicist Henry Pollack paints a compelling portrait of the delicate geological balance between ice and climate, and why its rapid disappearance portends serious consequences in our not-so-distant future.
Bjorn Lomborg argues in his book, Cool it - The Skeptical Environmentalist's Guide To Global Warming that many of the expensive actions now being considered to stop global warming are based on emotional rather than strictly scientific assumptions, and may very well have little impact on the world's temperature for hundreds of years.
In Power to Save the World: The Truth About Nuclear Energy, Gwyneth Cravens makes the case that nuclear energy should be reconsidered by environmentalists as a source of sustainable energy for a cleaner, greeener world.

Spotlight on: The Beardsley Zoo. Beardsley Zoo in nearby Bridgeport will be the site of a Party for the Planet on the weekend of April 17th-18th -- a two-day Earth Day celebration, from 10 am - 3 pm each day. "The Party for the Planet is about encouraging local, organic, earth-friendly choices as a way of promoting better health for our planet and ourselves," said Gregg Dancho, Zoo director. An educational "Citizen Science Corner" will show families how to get involved with caring for our environment, and environmentally-friendly products and services will be on display. Live music and the special displays are included in the regular zoo admission.

Can you farm in Stratford? Why, yes, you can.

2010-03-30T13:08:00.020-04:00

Spotlight on: The Farm at Stratford

The Farm at Stratford is a local sustainability project of Soundkeeper, Inc. with the Town of Stratford. It's a community garden located at Pirhala Fields Park on Connors Lane in Stratford.

Low-cost garden plots are available now for Stratford residents to rent for the spring garden season. Experienced gardeners and newcomers are both welcome to get their hands in the soil and raise some fruits, vegetables and flowers on their own plot of land. See the Farm's website for details and an application.

You may ask, "Why a community garden?" Organizer Terry Backer says, "Our hope to help you reduce your food bills, your pollution footprint, learn sustainable practices and get healthier all at the same time... We hope to make The Farm at Stratford a place where we learn from each other."

The Stratford Library has how-to information to help you on every step of your journey down the garden path, from planning, to planting, to pruning, to preventing pests. And just in case you were wondering about keeping your own chickens.... yeah, we have books on that, too.

	Just starting out as a gardener? The Complete Idiots' Guide will start at the very beginning and lead you all the way to harvesting your own vegetables.
	Does your heart skip a beat at the thought of planting new flower beds? Does the smell of freshly tilled ground make you weak in the knees? This is the book for the green-thumb wizard who knows his or her way around a rototiller and is ready to move up to the next expert level.
	The Library has DVDs on gardening, too, from popular experts like Martha Stewart and Jerry Baker. See for yourself as they demonstrate on-screen just how much mulch is too much mulch.
	And finally... chickens. Judging from how popular our books on chickens are, there are a lot of fresh eggs in Stratford's back yards. How about making an omelet from your own eggs, with fresh herbs from the community garden? That would be a fantastic Stratford speciality.

You could meet your new best friend this weekend

2010-03-24T18:29:00.011-04:00

We love stories about the friendship between dogs and people. And some of the best dogs we know are those "mutts" with sweet faces and big hearts who are gazing through the bars at the animal shelter waiting for the right person -- their person -- to come along and take them home.

If you've been thinking about adding a dog to your family, you probably would guess that the library has dozens of books and DVDs on naming, training, and caring for your dog. But did you know we have books all about adopting a rescued dog?

Community Event alert! The Stratford Animal Rescue Society & Stratford Animal Control will be having an adoption event and Pet Boutique on Saturday March 27, 2010 from 11 am-3 pm at the Stratford Animal Control Facility, 9 Frog Pond Lane, Stratford, CT 06614 (map) Dogs and cats will be available for adoption to homes that meet AC guidelines. See the Animal Control website for details: www.stratfordac.org/

These books are available at the Stratford Library for those special people that want to bring a special dog home:

	The Adopted Dog Bible is the one-stop handbook on the needs of these special dogs and covers every detail of daily life. --Where to find your perfect canine companion --How you can adopt any type of dog --Smart guidelines for adoption success --Realistic expenses of dog care
	Your Adopted Dog is a thorough guide to discovering the one-of-a-kind personality and one-of-a-kind love each rescued dog wants to share, if he is only given the chance. It's filled with helpful advice and successful techniques tailored to each dog's needs -- a complete and total resource.
	Saved: Rescued Animals and the Lives They Transform isn't a how-to book about pet care. Instead, it digs deep into the emotional reasons between human and animal can be so strong. One reader said, "You’ll be crying--and laughing--as you read about the powers pets have to heal people.”

Snapshot Day Statewide results

2010-03-10T13:54:00.002-05:00

PEOPLE NEED LIBRARIES….LIBRARIES NEED YOU IN JUST ONE DAY – FEBRUARY 18, 2010 ◦80,616 people walked through the doors of Connecticut libraries ◦99,537 books, movies and more were borrowed from Connecticut libraries ◦988 new borrowers were registered at Connecticut libraries ◦ 8,960 reference questions were answered at Connecticut libraries ◦12,982 people used computers at Connecticut libraries ◦591 programs/classes were offered at Connecticut libraries ◦9,599 people attended programs/classes at Connecticut libraries ◦113,143 people visited Connecticut library websites See the pictures from that day - http://www.flickr.com/photos/ctlibrariessnapshot2010/

Stratford Library - Stratford Library eNews

2010-03-02T16:09:00.000-05:00

Stratford Library - Stratford Library eNews

Author Jennifer Baszile Returns to the Library

2010-02-26T13:24:00.005-05:00

“One Book, One Stratford” continues on Tuesday, March 2, at 6:30pm, in the Lovell Room of the Stratford Library. Author Jennifer Baszile will be part of the intergenerational discussion about her book "The Black Girl Next Door". The memoir is the true story of Baszile’s growing up black in a white section of Los Angeles in the 1970s and ‘80s. Professor Baszile commented to the Post that although her particular story is set in previous decades, her theme of how families struggle to achieve the American dream and become part of the cultural landscape of the US is still vitally relevent today. Jennifer Baszile received her B.A. from Columbia and her Ph.D. in American history from Princeton. She was the first black female professor to join Yale University's history department and has been named one of the "Thirty Leaders of the Future" by Ebony magazine. She currently lives in Connecticut.

SNAPSHOT: ONE DAY in the LIFE of CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES

2010-02-05T14:18:00.007-05:00

Don't miss this-Thursday, February 18, 2010 Libraries all over Connecticut will be taking a “snapshot”—collecting information to capture the impact that Connecticut libraries have on their communities on a typical day

Please stop in and tell us what you love about Stratford Library and why it’s important.

We’ll take your answers and let you know what other people all around the state think of their libraries and how they use them.

Results and pictures will be posted online at http://snapshotctlib.wordpress.com/ after March 10th

Snapshot: One Day in the Life of Connecticut Libraries is a project of the Connecticut Library Association, the Connecticut State Library and the Connecticut Library Consortium.

Stratford Library eNews February 2010

2010-01-27T13:43:00.001-05:00

All Stratford Library news- all in one place: Stratford Library - Stratford Library eNews

Tax Help

2010-01-26T18:57:00.001-05:00

Free help with your income tax return The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) offers free tax preparation services for basic individual returns to people with incomes less than $49,000. IN STRATFORD BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 377-0689 Stratford Library2203 Main St., StratfordFeb. 4 – April 8Thursdays, 11 am – 2 pm BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 377-0689 South End Community Center19 Bates St, Stratford Feb. 4 – April 17 Thursdays, 5:30 pm – 8 pm Saturdays, 9:00 am – noon BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 377-0689Franklin Elementary School1895 Barnum Avenue, Stratford Feb. 1 – April 12Mondays, 4 pm – 8 pm Bring with you all information and documents that apply to your 2009 income taxes, including: Copy of last year’s tax return -- If married filing jointly, both spouses must attend appointment with Photo IDs -- Social Security cards for every member of the family -- W-2s and/or 1099s from ALL jobs worked in 2009 -- A check from the taxpayer's checking account or a savings account number for direct deposit -- Interest statements from financial institutions (if applicable) -- Tuition and student loan information (if applicable) -- Documentation from daycare provider, if taxpayer paid for child care in 2009 -- Any other income information or IRS notices received. For more free tax help services Call 2-1-1, Connecticut’s free information and referral service Or ask the librarians for help finding volunteer locations in neighboring towns. _____________________________________ IRS Live Telephone Assistance for Individuals:1-800-829-1040. IRS phone line to Order Tax Forms and Materials: 1-800-829-3676 Call the local Bridgeport IRS office for help: 203-384-5818 This information was accurate as of 1/18/10. Be sure to call ahead and verify the details before visiting a volunteer site

Time Goes By...

2010-01-21T14:35:00.003-05:00

We say "goodbye" to authors Erich Segal and Robert B. Parker this week. But their works live on. Visit the Stratford Library, and check out a copy of a classic by one of these famous guys.

Stratford Library Staff Picks

2010-01-21T11:04:00.002-05:00

Find out what staff members are reading & watching:

Stratford Library - Stratford Library Staff Picks

This is one of our most popular enews letters. If you would like to get a copy directly in your in-box, sign up at http://www.stratfordlibrary.org/ & click on the yellow post it note

"One Book, One Stratford"

2010-01-06T18:42:00.008-05:00

Sunday, Jan. 10, 2 pm: Author Jennifer Baszile visits the Stratford Library to kick-off "One Book, One Stratford"

Did you see the great article this week in the Connecticut Post about our program, "One Book, One Stratford" ? The idea of the “One Book” program is that everyone in town reads the same book at the same time, much like a town-wide book club. The library has chosen Jennifer Baszile’s acclaimed memoir, The Black Girl Next Door, as the town selection. From now until March, the library has scheduled a number of talks, film showings, lectures, and discussions that touch on the themes explored in Baszile's book. At the “One Book, One Stratford” kick-off event on January 10 author Jennifer Baszile will be in attendance to discuss and read from her memoir. The Black Girl Next Door is the true story of Baszile’s growing up black in a white section of Los Angeles in the 1970s and ‘80s. Professor Baszile commented to the Post that although her particular story is set in previous decades, her theme of how families struggle to achieve the American dream and become part of the cultural landscape of the US is still vitally relevent today. Jennifer Baszile received her B.A. from Columbia and her Ph.D. in American history from Princeton. She was the first black female professor to join Yale University's history department and has been named one of the "Thirty Leaders of the Future" by Ebony magazine. She currently lives in Connecticut. Copies of The Black Girl Next Door will be available for purchase at the event – autographed by the author. The library also multiple copies for loan. The “One Book” event is co-sponsored in part by Simon & Schuster. Light refreshments will be served.

For the complete schedule of events for "One Book, One Stratford," see the calendar at the library's webpage.

New computers for the New Year

2009-12-30T14:39:00.004-05:00

A New Year's Invitation: You are invited... ..to use the library's new computers in our Adult and Teen service areas. The PCs are brand new and ready for you to access the internet and use Microsoft Office applications. The PCs have read/write CD drives and USB ports to save your work. We even have new printers in black/white and in color. Come in and see us in 2010! You may be pleasantly surprised at all we have to offer. Holiday Schedule: The Library will be open until 8 pm on Wednesday, Dec. 30. We are closed on Thursday and Friday (New Year's Eve and New Year's Day) but we'll be open again our normal hours on Saturday (10 am - 5 pm ) and Sunday (1 pm - 5 pm). Have a great holiday and stay safe.

FINALLY!

2009-12-21T13:17:00.005-05:00

Brand New Computers are coming!

They will be installed Monday, December 28th & Tuesday, December 29th

In order to upgrade the library's PCs and software, there will be No Computer Access on Monday, December 28th & Tuesday, December 29th.

During the PC upgrade, we will not be able to offer access to the internet, word processing, the Career Center, the Express Computers, or library databases.

Thank you for your patience while we make this long-awaited improvement!

Holiday Surprise

2009-12-14T13:38:00.005-05:00

All we want for Christmas is....and we know you'll like it, too! Stay tuned!

Holiday Concert - Sunday December 13

2009-12-04T13:18:00.004-05:00

The Stratford Library and Friends of Square One Theatre will present their annual holiday program on Sunday, December 13 at 2 pm. The event, “Holiday Music with Childs & Zamparo”, will take place in the Lovell Room of the Stratford Library. The concert is free and open to the public. Pianist David Childs and his wife, vocalist Janet Zamparo, will perform a variety of holiday favorites including “Sleigh Ride”, “Winter Wonderland” and “The Christmas Song”. David has been a full time pianist and educator for 25 years. He performs full time in the tri state region in a variety of venues.

Holiday festivities in Stratford kick-off at the Library, Dec. 2

2009-11-28T11:32:00.010-05:00

The Stratford Center Holiday Festival will begin at the Stratford Library with a special, live performance of “The Snowmaiden” on Wednesday, December 2 at 4 pm. The free event will precede the Town’s gala tree lighting and choral programs at Stratford Center.

“The Snowmaiden” is a classic Russian folk tale told in toy-theatre style with two dimensional marionettes. It’s about a child made out of snow who delights her village before retreating into the forest, promising to return again each winter. The dances and songs that follow the story are adapted from Russian folk music and the library performance – presented by the acclaimed Purple Rock Productions – will feature live music with guitar and balalaika as it celebrates children, friendship and the change of the seasons.

“The Snowmaiden” will be held in the Stratford Library Lovell Room beginning at 4 pm on Wednesday, December 2nd. It is recommended for families with children ages 3 and up. The holiday program is free and open to the public but seating is limited and reservations are suggested. Call the Stratford Library Children’s Department at 203.385.4165 for further information.

After "The Snowmaiden," come together your fellow Strafordites for a warm community holiday festivities throughout town, listed in the flyer above.

LARGE PRINT BOOKS

2009-11-24T15:07:00.003-05:00

Large Print is for Everyone!

Many people may not realize that the Stratford Library provides book titles that have been printed using a slightly larger type size and wider margins.

Large print books can help readers of all ages, including struggling or reluctant readers, anyone who needs glasses, and English as a Second Language readers.

Please visit the Stratford Library, and check out the terrific large print collection!

New Area Codes = New way to Dial

2009-11-12T16:35:00.006-05:00

New areas codes to be added in Connecticut. The 475 area code will be added later this year to the area served by 203 and the 959 area code will be added at a future date to the area served by 860. What Will be the New Dialing Procedure? To complete local calls, the new dialing procedure requires callers to dial area code + telephone number. This means that all local calls in Connecticut that are currently dialed with seven digits will need to be dialed using area code + telephone number. Beginning November 14, 2009, you must use the new dialing procedure for all local calls in Connecticut. If you do not use the new dialing procedure, your call will not be completed, and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again. Any preprogrammed phone numbers will need to be changed. Visit Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control for more information

More Consumer Reports

2009-11-07T12:41:00.008-05:00

Consumer Reports online is now available for Stratford Library cardholders. This subscription database offers more reviews and ratings that are not available with the magazine (the library has a subscription).

Find it- from our website (http://www.stratfordlibrary.org/)

Click on the "Check Our Databases" Icon

Scroll down & click on Consumer Reports

Job Seekers Workshop at Library on October 20

2009-10-12T11:38:00.004-04:00

Department of Labor To Co-Sponsor “Job Search Strategies”

The Stratford Library Adult Services Department will offer a special workshop for job seekers on Tuesday, October 20 starting at 10 am. “Job Search Strategies” is hosted by the Connecticut Department of Labor’s Bridgeport Office in conjunction with the Adult Services Department of the Stratford Library.

The workshop will discuss job search strategies for the 21st century. New tools and techniques will improve one’s chances for success in today's job market. The program is presented by Michael Shavel, a career counselor from Bridgeport's Department of Labor. Following the workshop, there will be options for hands-on job searching practice. Inquire at the Stratford Library’s Reference desk about reserving a p.c. in their new, on-site Career Center. The library workshop is free and open to the public but seating is limited and advanced registration is required. It will be held in the Library’s Lovell Room between 10 am and noon on October 20th. To register, call the Stratford Library’s Adult Services Department at 203.385.4164.

Pink Ribbons

2009-10-05T11:13:00.004-04:00

Have you noticed lots of people wearing pink lately? October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. The library has a display up with books & lots of pamphlets (& magnets)about all aspects of breast cancer - prevention, finding doctors, treatment options, emotional help and survivor stories. The Breast Cancer Network of Strength has kindly given the library a big box of information for us to pass along to you. Topics include- "What You Need to Know", "Breast Cancer Prevention" and "When the Woman You Love has Breast Cancer". The Breast Cancer Network of Strength is also looking for volunteers to help with various aspects of their services- we have volunteer applications at the library or you can contact Anita Patel, the volunteer coordinator at the Branford, CT office: 312-873-2757 or email apatel@networkofstrength.org

Are you a fan?

2009-09-22T12:46:00.005-04:00

Stratford Library Association - Stratford, CT

Promote Your Page Too Are you on Facebook? Want to get quick updates from the library? Become a fan of the "Stratford Library Association-Stratford, CT" and keep in touch. We promise we won't post too much stuff, just enough to keep you informed.

2009-09-14T12:14:00.004-04:00

During the month of September, you can show your library card and save! See the list of terrific deals available at the various businesses.

Happy Savings!

Labor Day holiday

2009-09-03T19:30:00.006-04:00

The Stratford Library will be closed on Saturday, Sept. 5, Sunday Sept. 6, and Monday Sept. 7 in observance of Labor Day. We will reopen on Tuesday, Sept. 8 at 10 am.

(Above: the first celebration of Labor Day, in New York City)

The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City on Sept. 5, 1882, when some 10,000 workers assembled to participate in America's first Labor Day parade. After marching from City Hall to Union Square, the workers and their families gathered in Reservoir Park for a picnic, concert and speeches. This first Labor Day celebration was initiated by Peter J. McGuire, a carpenter and labor union leader who a year earlier co-founded the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions, a precursor of the American Federation of Labor.

McGuire had proposed his idea for a holiday honoring American workers at a labor meeting in early 1882. New York's Central Labor Union quickly approved his proposal and began planning events for the second Tuesday in September. McGuire had suggested a September date in order to provide a break during the long stretch between Independence Day and Thanksgiving. While the first Labor Day was held on a Tuesday, the holiday was soon moved to the first Monday in September, the date we continue to observe.

New York's Labor Day celebrations inspired similar events across the country. Oregon became the first state to grant legal status to the holiday, in 1887; other states soon followed. In 1894 Congress passed legislation making Labor Day a national holiday.

You can watch an early motion picture by Thomas Edison of a 1904 Labor Day parade on the Library of Congress's American Memory site.

--This article originally appeared at the Library of Congress's "Wise Guide" page.

Summer Reading Program for Adults

2009-08-18T12:16:00.002-04:00

Over 100 adults participated and over 475 books were read in our first-ever summer reading program for adults. We send hearty thanks to all the businesses and organizations helping to make possible the fabulous prize incentives.

Many participants told us that the program really did encourage them to read more this summer. Some individuals expressed their appreciation that the program allowed them to model good reading habits to their children - Mom or Dad was in a summer reading "club", too. Other people told us they were thrilled just to have a fun outlet for their steady reading habit. If you didn't join this summer, we hope you'll keep it in mind next year!

Shakespeare on a summer day

2009-08-12T19:14:00.004-04:00

Three plugs for Shakespeare today.

First, the library just bought a set of 25 DVDs, all of Shakespeare's major works, produced by the BBC in the 1970s and 1980s. You can see Helen Mirren, Anthony Hopkins, Bob Hoskins, Sir John Gielgud, Dame Wendy Hiller, and even John Cleese in these made-for-tv movies, which were done with that expertise in the dramatic tradition that only British actors have.

Second, the Hudson Shakespeare Company will return to the Stratford Library on August 22nd with a free performance of The Merry Wives of Windsor. The 2 pm show will be outdoors, weather permitting, or indoors in the library's Lovell Room if the skies look threatening. The comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor is Shakespeare's only play to deal with his contemporaries -- the Elizabethan middle class.

And finally, if you like to go down to "the city," you might sign up for sword and unarmed combat classes, which the Hudson Shakespeare Company's fight choreographer regularly offers in New York City. Roman swords, found objects, rapiers, cudgels, broadsword, quarterstaff... you name it, Michael Hagins can teach you to wallop someone with it (theatrically, of course). The Hudson Shakespeare website can tell you more about these classes, which are recommended for general fitness as well as for aspiring actors.

The poet and the firefly

2009-08-07T13:47:00.004-04:00

We're having a good time putting up a new poem every day in the library lobby. One of the best parts is looking at dozens of good poems looking for one really stands out, that will connect to a reader who is just glancing at the poem on the wall while waiting for the elevator. Here are two poems about fireflies that I came across today: one serious, and the other, not so much.

Fireflies in the Garden by Robert Frost Here come real stars to fill the upper skies, And here on earth come emulating flies, That though they never equal stars in size, (And they were never really stars at heart) Achieve at times a very star-like start. Only, of course, they can't sustain the part.

The Firefly by Ogden Nash The firefly's flame Is something for which science has no name I can think of nothing eerier Than flying around with an unidentified glow on a person's posteerier.

Poem of the day

2009-08-03T12:20:00.004-04:00

The Adult Services Dept. is posting a new poem every day in the lobby during the month of August. So far, the poems have been personal favorites of one of the librarians, but we're interested in hearing from you, if you have a poem to suggest. Share your poems with us and other library devotees by sending your suggestion(s) to ask@stratfordlibrary.org.

Here's today's poem, by Nobelist Czeslaw Milosz.

Encounter We were riding through frozen fields in a wagon at dawn. A red wing rose in the darkness. And suddenly a hare ran across the road. One of us pointed to it with his hand. That was long ago. Today neither of them is alive, Not the hare, nor the man who made the gesture. O my love, where are they, where are they going The flash of a hand, streak of movement, rustle of pebbles. I ask not out of sorrow, but in wonder.

2009-07-30T12:25:00.003-04:00

Do you have visitors from out-of-town staying with you this summer? People are sometimes surprised to find out that any adult can use the Internet at the Stratford library -- not just Stratford residents. Your visitors can check their email, get a schedule for the trains into NYC, update their vacation blog, and (finally) print out their boarding passes when it's time to go.

Summer breeze, makes me feel fine....

2009-07-25T14:44:00.005-04:00

In the summer, the living is easy (and cheap!) from your couch. Just swing by the library to check out the interesting and fun travel DVDs, and do a little armchair traveling. Bon Voyage!

Pet Show!

2009-07-18T12:25:00.001-04:00

The Stratford Library presents its Third Annual Children’s Pet Show on Thursday, July 23 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children in grades 1 to 6 are invited to bring their pets to the Library courtyard to participate in the pet show. All animals are welcome, and pets will be judged on a variety of categories with prizes and certificates awarded. The pet show judges will be Dr. Louis Pieper, veterinarian, a representative from PetCo Animal Supplies, and staff from the Stratford Library Association. Pets must be pre-registered by Monday, July 20 to participate. For a list of pet show guidelines, and to register your pet, please stop by the Stratford Library Children’s Department desk. Spectators and pet lovers of all ages are also welcome to attend. This program is part of the Stratford Library’s Summer Reading Program, “Be Creative.” For further information, call the Stratford Library Children’s Department at 203.385.4165.

Help from the CT Agricultural Experiment Station

2009-07-11T12:17:00.011-04:00

Gardeners of Stratford -- are you frustrated by your efforts to raise vegetables, flowers and fruit this year? Has a fungus attacked your fuchsias? Have bugs wiped out your broccoli? Don't know where to turn?

Well, we're sure you know that the library has a lot of great books on gardening and pest control. But you may not know that a state agency called the CT Agricultural Experiment Station is also available to help you solve your garden woes, for free. They will identify a mystery insect, diagnose a baffling plant disease, and test your soil to tell you why your plants aren't thriving. You can mail your samples in or just call and ask them for advice. And there's no fee for these services.

The CAES has been serving science in the public interest in New Haven since 1877. As part of their mission, "any consumer wanting to know the composition of his soil, fertilizer, cattle food, seeds, or whether an insect or plant carries a disease has only to fill out a form and agree that all results will be made available for public use."

You can read more about these specific programs at their website: Insect Information and Problems Soil Testing Plant Information and Problems

Yes we can! (fruits and vegetables)

2009-07-06T14:09:00.006-04:00

Last week, All Things Considered ran a story called "During Tough Times, Canning Makes a Comeback." (Listen to their story here, if you like.) All over the US, people are asking their older neighbors to show them how to put up food or learning from books. The company that owns the popular Ball line of canning products, says it has already seen a 30 percent increase in sales of jars and lids this year!

The library has plenty of books you can borrow on canning and preserving if you want to brush up or learn how for the first time.

And here's the perfect reason to start canning: Stratford's farmers' market is up and running again for the summer. The market will be held every Monday from June 29th to October 2nd (1 - 6 pm) at DeLuca Field's overflow parking lot in the South End of Stratford. Senior coupons and WIC coupons are accepted. For seniors who participate in the Senior Nutrition Program, coupons are available through the Salvation Army at 367-0605. WIC coupons should be obtained for the month of July at the WIC office at 752 East Main Street, Bridgeport or by calling 576-8072. For more information about the Farmers Market, contact Greta Roberts at groberts@townofstratford.com or 385.4090.

Come to the Library on the 3rd of July

2009-07-02T18:54:00.008-04:00

Yes, the library is open on Friday July 3, from 10 am - 5 pm... so come in and get some ideas for your Independence Day cookout. We have lots of books on grilling, on summer desserts, and on entertaining a crowd. You could also check out a few books on the American Revolution if you want to impress your friends and family with a reading of the Declaration of Independence. Here's a colorful but easy idea for dessert: Old Glory Cupcakes. You can make your own cupcakes, following the recipe below, or you can start with supermarket cupcakes as long as they have white frosting. If you use store-bought cupcakes, all you need to purchase for decoration are a pint of blueberries for every dozen cupcakes, and red "fruit leather" to make the stripes. Old Glory Cupcakes -- Makes 24 cupcakes 3 cups blueberries, washed and divided 1 (18- to 19-oz.) pkg. yellow cake mix 1/3 cup applesauce 3 egg whites 1 (8 oz.) pkg. reduced-fat cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup confectioners sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 roll red-colored rolled fruit leather (from a 4.5 oz. box) Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large mixing bowl, beat cake mix with applesauce, egg whites and 1 1/4 cups water for 30 seconds on low speed, then 2 minutes on medium speed. Spoon batter into 24 (2-inch) aluminum or paper lined muffin cups; evenly divide about 1 cup of blueberries on top of batter; do not stir. Bake cupcakes following package directions; remove to a wire rack and cool completely. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, confectioners sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spoon onto cooled cupcakes; spread to the edges. Unroll fruit snack and, with a sharp knife, cut into strips 1/8 inch wide by 2 inches long. On half of each cupcake, arrange strips, as shown, trimming each to fit with clean scissors. Arrange remaining 2 cups blueberries on the frosting on other halves of the cupcakes, about 10 blueberries per cupcake. (This recipe is from Celebrate with Style, a good website for finding affordable and fun ideas for entertaining.)

Stratford Farmers Market opens Monday 6/29

2009-06-27T11:19:00.003-04:00

Stratford's 2009 Farmer's Market will feature Connecticut-grown fruits and vegetables, locally made baked-goods, and several other items from area farmers. The Artisan Alliance will also provide a variety of crafts for purchase. The market will be held every Monday from June 29th to October 2nd (1 - 6 pm) at DeLuca Field's overflow parking lot in the South End of Stratford.

Senior coupons and WIC coupons are accepted. For seniors who participate in the Senior Nutrition Program, coupons are available through the Salvation Army at 367-0605. WIC coupons should be obtained for the month of July at the WIC office at 752 East Main Street, Bridgeport or by calling 576-8072.

Look for the Stratford Library's Tent - stop by and say Hi!

We need your help! Gov. Rell's proposed budget will CUT essential Library services

2009-06-24T14:09:00.004-04:00

The state budget proposed by Governor Rell on May 29th eliminates state support for a number of programs that are very important to the services of the Stratford Library Association. What is at stake?

Connecticut Education Network provides every public library with free Internet connection, reduced funding jeopardizes this essential service
Interlibrary Loan Service reduced funding for the statewide delivery system between libraries. If local libraries had to mail these items it would cost over $5 million a year
ICONN, the state-wide Digital Library provides access to thousands of journals, magazines, newspapers and other research resources affecting every school, public library and college in Connecticut
Connecticard allows free access residents to borrow from any library in the state making many more books and other library resources available at great savings to taxpayers
ReQuest, the statewide catalog which allows citizens to locate over 4.4 million titles in libraries across the state
Grants to Public Libraries- basic grants to local libraries fund books, technology, and staff training
Service Centers provide training, consulting services, professional collections and early literacy materials to Connecticut’s libraries
Connecticut Library Consortium (CLC) negotiates discounts with vendors, including book and media distributors saving libraries and schools hundreds of thousands of dollars

PLEASE let Governor Rell and our state Senators & Representatives know that you value the library and do not want to see these cuts happen. Let them know that money spent on public libraries is money wisely spent Governor M. Jodi Rell (R) Governor.Rell@ct.gov State Senate District 21: Dan Debicella (R) Dan.Debicella@cga.ct.gov State Senate District 23: Edwin Gomes (D) Gomes@senatedems.ct.gov State House District 120: John A. Harkins (R) John.Harkins@housegop.ct.gov State House District 121: Terry Backer (D) Terry.Backer@cga.ct.gov State House District 122: Lawrence G. Miller (R) Lawrence.G.Miller@housegop.ct.gov Thanks!

Summer Reading - it's not just for kids anymore!

2009-06-15T15:17:00.002-04:00

Be Creative: Find Time to Read!

Adult Summer Reading Program 2009 · No meetings! · Read any book you like! · You could win a gift! Do you have time to read just one book this summer? Let the Stratford Library help you find terrific books and audiobooks (so you can read “on the go!”).

Each time you read a book, stop by the Reference Desk to fill out a ticket which will make you eligible for drawings throughout the summer. You could win: Brakettes tickets, Square One Theatre tickets, YMCA Weekend Family Fun passes, gift certificates to local restaurants such as Blue Point Bar and Grill, Shell Station, Stephen’s Pub & Grill, plus gifts or gift certificates from Millers Hallmark, Janet Kemp Fine Yarns & Needlework, Sikorsky Financial Credit Union, and more! Be creative about finding time to read this summer! Registration begins Monday, June 22 at the Stratford Library Adult Reference Desk. Call 203-385-4164 for more information

Historic Lordship Tour on Saturday, June 13

2009-06-01T12:03:00.005-04:00

On Saturday June 13, 2009 (10am to 4pm) a coalition of Lordship community groups will host a celebration of Lordship's history and its present, the "Historic Lordship Tour," to remember and celebrate those days of long ago when the Trolley brought tourists to enjoy the beach and the new-fangled horseless carriages ran along Prospect Drive.

For one day, the trolleys will come back to Lordship, bringing the community together for some old-fashioned fun. The trolley cars will circuit Lordship with guided tours, stopping at the three churches (with free parking and bathroom facilities), Audubon Center, the firehouse, Stratford Point Lighthouse, and Civil Air Patrol.

The Audubon Society will conduct tours of the old Remington Gun Club and the Firehouse. The Father's Club Building and the retired firemen will give tours of their facilities. And for the first time in decades, the Stratford Point Lighthouse (a fully functional Coast Guard operational lighthouse) and the Civil Air Patrol will be open to the public.

Each stop will feature a special display of historical highlights via video, photographs and special events lik a storyteller impersonating Igor Sikorsky. Eateries and booths along the way will provide ample opportunity for folks to go home full of goodies and memories. An antique car show, roller skating demonstration, live music by the Stratford High School Jazz Band, a quilt exhibition, and a booth about local history resources at the Stratford library will add to the fun. The participating organizations are the Lordship Fathers’ Club, Our Lady of Peace Roman Catholic Church, St. Joseph National Catholic Church, and the Lordship Community Church, and the Stratford Civil Air Patrol.

Tickets are $10 per person or $20 per family and can be purchased at the Stratford Library by check or cash. For more information please see http://www.lordshiphistory.com/ or call: Christine Griffin -203-378-3537.

Memorial Day

2009-05-22T14:16:00.007-04:00

The Library will be open on the Saturday before Memorial Day, from 10 am - 5 pm, but we will be closed on both Sunday, May 24 and Memorial Day, May 25. Maya Lin's design for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC is one of the most well-known pieces of sculpture in our country, despite the fact that it is less than 30 years old. The Library of Congress holds the archives of papers relating to the design contest which Lin won and to the building of the memorial. Looking at Lin's original submission to the contest, it seems somewhat amazing that the judges were able to visualize how profound and moving her design would be once built. In her text that accompanied her drawings, Ms. Lin wrote that "these names, seemingly infinite in number, [would] convey the sense of overwhelming numbers, while unifying these individuals into a whole." After Lin's design was chosen as the winner, the contest committee evidently felt that a more conventional drawing was needed in order to convey a sense of what the monument would look like to the visitor. Architect Paul Stevenson Oles was asked if he could create several drawings in just a matter of hours that would show the Lin's design in a more conventional manner. Oles checked with Lin to make sure that his drawing fit her conception. She asked him (shyly, as he recalls) if she could be included in his drawing. She seems to be the young lady standing at the top of the Wall looking down. More details of this story, and more pictures of her sketches, can be found at the Library of Congress's American Treasures website.

"Eating Healthy on a Budget" - May 19th

2009-05-14T10:52:00.008-04:00

The Health & Wellness series continues at the Stratford Library in May. This is a free series presented by the Office of the Mayor & the Stratford Health Department. Join us on Tuesday, May 19th at 5:30 pm in the Lovell Room for: "Eating Healthy on a Budget" with Dr. Susan Rzucidlo, a Naturopath from The Center for Naturopathic Medicine, Inc. in Stratford. The talk will provide information on how to shop, eat and cook in a healthy way. "In todays' economy many Americans are looking for ways to lower their grocery bill," said Dr. Rzucidlo. "Eating healthy when on a budget is easier than you may think. It is important to keep in mind that health is the untimate wealth." Dr. Rzucidlo's talk is free & open to the public. Please contact Jennfer Sloat at the Stratford Health Department at 203-385-4090 or jsloat@townofstratford.com to register.

Glass Menagerie -at Stratford Library & at Long Wharf Theatre

2009-05-09T11:34:00.004-04:00

Join us to discuss "The Glass Menagerie" on May 12th, then purchase a ticket to the Long Wharf production (running May 13th -June 7th) & get $5 off with your Library Card!

Script Talk - at the Stratford Library:

"The Glass Menagerie” by Tennessee Williams will be discussed on Tuesday, May 12th beginning at noon in the library’s Lovell Room. The Emmy Award winning film version of “The Glass Menagerie” starring Katharine Hepburn and Michael Moriarty will be shown after the talk. Discussion is moderated by area theatre and library programming director Tom Holehan. Patrons are invited to bring a bag lunch to the program – coffee and tea will be served. For further information, call the Stratford Library’s Public Relations and Programming Office at 203.385.4162 or http://www.stratfordlibrary.org/

The Play - at Long Wharf Theatre (May 13th - June 7th) :

Starring Judith Ivey of “Designing Women”, Josh Charles of “Dead Poet’s Society” and “Sportsnight”, Patch Darragh and Keira Keeley.

Get $5 off all tickets to Long Wharf Theatre’s production of The Glass Menagerie with a library card or a receipt from one of the following bookstores: The Book Trader Café, Labyrinth Books, Atticus Bookstore (New Haven); RJ Julia Booksellers (Madison); and Breakwater Books (Guilford). Or, for groups of 10 or more, get up to 35% off the regular ticket price. Call Leah Dudley at (203) 772-8242 for more information or www.longwharf.org