Event Types: Family Fun

Start your week with some after-school fun! Join us for Monday Afternoon Gaming at the library every Monday from January 6th to March 31st, 3:30 to 4:30 PM.

Students in grades 4 and up can play Nintendo Switch games from our collection, including:

– FIFA – Kick off the fun with exciting soccer matches.
– Mario Kart – Race your friends and leave them in the dust.
– Pokémon – Catch ‘em all and explore the Pokémon universe.
– Kirby – Team up with Kirby for colorful adventures.
– Sonic – Speed through levels with Sonic and friends.
– Mario Party – Challenge your friends to mini-game madness.

…and so much more!

With a variety of games to choose from, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to unwind, have fun, and connect with friends after school. Space is limited, and registration is required, so be sure to sign up early! Please sign up on our website.

Bring your little ones to Bouncing Babies at the Gunn Memorial Library for a developmentally stimulating and emotionally rewarding program with Miss Denise. It is perfect for children from birth to two years old, and their caregivers and siblings of all ages are welcome to join in the fun!

Spend 30 minutes with us, singing songs, sharing stories, and learning together. Our engaging activities will introduce and reinforce essential skills like name recognition, sign language, counting, and more. Stick around afterward for unstructured playtime, where kids and caregivers can socialize. Don’t miss this joyful gathering designed to support early learning and play.

Get started with the basics of sewing in this three-week workshop! Participants will learn how to cut out a pattern, thread and safely operate a sewing machine, and machine-embroider a monogram as they create their own reading pillow. Grades 4-5. Registration required. Participants must attend all three sessions.

Register here

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

Tech Tuesday: Mike Ingber Presents “Doing More With Your Computer” | January 14, 2:00-3:30 pm

There are so many things that a Windows computer can easily be used for that you might not know much about. In this class, we will explore many capabilities that will enhance the use you get from your computer!  Join us to learn about dictation, projecting, creating sticky notes, connecting Bluetooth devices, the value and power of YouTube, and more!

Mike Ingber, owner of Upward Business Systems since 1989, provides expert, reliable, affordable computer consulting services to many clients.  Clients include town halls, libraries, schools, non-profit agencies, small and medium businesses, home users, and senior citizens.  Mike received an M.S. in Computer Science from Cornell University in 1979, and a B.S. in Computer Science and Applied Math from Stony Brook University in 1977.  Mike has been a resident of Oxford since 1982.

Register here

Seeking young musicians in grades 6-12

Registration is now open for young musicians in grades 6-12 for this unique orchestral program, beginning January 2025. This year, students will take a field trip to see the NYC Pops at Carnegie Hall, and perform in multiple concerts. Practice sessions will be led by musicians James and Krystyana Czeiner – both Juilliard alumni and Grammy recipients. Learn more and register today via asapct.org.

Create a Sparkling Snowflake at the Gunn Memorial Library!

Let your creativity shine this winter. Join us for a fun-filled crafting session where kids can design unique snowflakes using sparkly pipe cleaners, beads, and gems. This hands-on activity is also educational, as it teaches children about the unique structure of snowflakes. Celebrate the beauty of the chilly, white season with snow-themed crafts that are sure to delight.

All materials are provided—just bring your imagination!

Spaces are limited, so please register on online.

Rumsey Hall School is excited to open our ice rink to the community for free skating sessions on select dates/times. Bring your friends and family, lace up your skates, and enjoy some time on the ice! Please note that helmets are required for kids.

December 27: 3:30pm – 5:00pm (Family Free Skate) 5:15pm – 6:45pm (Sticks and Pucks)
December 28: 1:45 pm – 3:45 pm (Family Free Skate)
December 30: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
December 31: 12:00pm – 2:00pm (Family Free Skate) 2:15pm – 4:15pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 1: 12:00pm – 2:00pm (Family Free Skate) 2:15pm – 4:15pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 2: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 3: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 4: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
January 11: 4:15pm – 6:15pm
January 18: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 1: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
February 8: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 15: 5:00pm – 7:00pm

This special performance will be taking place on January 18th at 8:00pm and January 19th at 2:00pm at the Warner Theatre’s Oneglia Auditorium on 68 Main Street, Torrington, CT 06790.

Seamlessly blending illusion, acrobatics, magic, and whimsy, MOMIX sends audiences Flying down the rabbit hole in Moses Pendelton’s newest creation, ALICE, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice in Wonderland.

Join this dazzling company on a mind-bending adventure as Alice encounters time-honored characters including the undulating Caterpillar, a Lobster Quadrille, frenzied White Rabbits, a mad Queen of Hearts, and a variety of other surprises. Filled with visual splendor and startling creative movement, ALICE reveals that nothing in MOMIX’s world is as it seems.

Get tickets

About: MOMIX is a company of dancer-illusionists under the direction of Moses Pendleton. For more than 30 years, MOMIX has been celebrated for its ability to conjure up a world of surrealistic images using props, light, shadow, humor and the human body. Their space in Washington, CT serves as MOMIX’s headquarters and principal studio.

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

Join us for a unique Martin Luther King Jr. family storytime. Miss Linda will read Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s book “I Have a Dream”. Then, children will learn about a real American hero and why we celebrate him in the USA. Following storytime, children will create handprint crafts to take home.

Space is limited, and registration is required, so be sure to sign up on our website.

Do you have a word or mantra for the new year? A song lyric, poem, or other quote you love? Visit the Makerspace and put it on a tote bag with some help from the Cricut cutter and heat press! You’ll learn how to use the Design Space software to format text for cutting and some tips for working with heat transfer vinyl and selecting the best settings for the heat press.

Ages 18+. Registration required.

Register here

The learning experience in Cookie Count centers on introducing young children to early math concepts in a fun and engaging way. Through its vibrant, detailed illustrations and delightful depictions of cookies and confections, the book encourages counting, number recognition, and one-to-one correspondence. Additionally, the book supports language development and vocabulary building through descriptive text and storytelling.

Space is limited, and registration is required, so be sure to sign up on our website.

Fun French Games and Conversation for Kids at the Gunn Library

The Gunn Memorial Library invites intermediate and advanced French-speaking children, ages 6-10, to join us for an hour of fun and interactive language practice! This engaging program combines games with French conversation, allowing young learners to improve their language skills while enjoying themselves.

Led by experienced facilitators, the session will encourage fluency, build confidence, and create a playful environment where kids can connect with fellow French speakers.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse your child in the beauty of the French language. Registration is required, so please visit our website to secure your spot!
Venez jouer et apprendre avec nous!

Visit the Makerspace for a chill winter crafternoon! Relax, listen to music, and hang out with your friends as you make a project inspired by the season. We’ll have supplies for a few projects available, or you can use the materials from the art wall to create your own!

Grades 6-12. Registration required.

Register here

Sunday, January 26th @ 1:00pm

In this month’s Sunday Fun Day workshop, express your creativity while learning about the world around you and connecting with a culture that has thousands of years of history in this area. For thousands of years, many Native peoples have decorated clothing and items with materials found in nature, such as shell, stones, seeds and porcupine quills. In more recent centuries, multi-colored glass beads have become a favorite medium, as well. Join IAIS Educator Irene Norman (Mohawk descent) for this wonderful winter workshop, in which participants will decorate their very own piece of jewelry incorporating these materials. With Valentine’s Day approaching, create a unique gift for a special someone, or keep it to rock out on yourself!

Space is limited and pre-registration is requested. Please visit our website to register online. Questions? Please email [email protected] or call (860) 868-0518. Price of participation: $20 for Non-Members, $10 for Members.

Register here

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

The Gunn Museum and Makerspace present a series of craft workshops inspired by artifacts from the Museum’s collections. These hands-on workshops blend creativity, history, and art, providing participants with a unique learning experience.

January: Wood Block Stamp Carving with CNC Machines

Participants will step into wood carving in January, using the Makerspace’s CNC machine to design and create their own wood block stamps. Drawing inspiration from the work of Washington’s own Herbert Faulkner, a renowned painter and wood carver, participants will craft personalized stamps to embellish tote bags, coasters, or note card sets. It’s a perfect way to explore art and craftsmanship while connecting with local history!

This program is offered to adults 18 and older. Registration is required for each session.

Three town libraries – Roxbury, Bridgewater, and Washington – collaborate to present you Introduction to AI with Mary McPheat. (Zoom link is provided when you register on our website)

Session #1: Concepts, Demos, and Safety – This online session will briefly introduce artificial intelligence in just 60 minutes, covering key concepts, generative AI, and privacy considerations. It features demos to help you grasp the technology’s power and hopefully spark some creative thinking about its possibilities.

Register here

January Virtual Book Club – “Moon Of The Crusted Snow”
Wednesday, January 29th @ 7:00pm

Looking to expand your reading list and discuss a variety of issues and topics important to Native people? Please join our virtual book club, As They Speak: Native Voices in Today’s Literature. Based on a variety of topics and featuring a range of genres, all of the books we will be reading have been written by contemporary authors. This month, we will be reading and discussing Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubgeshig Rice. With winter looming, a small northern Anishinaabe community goes dark. Cut off, people become passive and confused. Panic builds as the food supply dwindles. Frustrated by the building chaos, a group of young friends and their families turn to the land and Anishinaabe tradition in hopes of helping their community thrive again. Guided through the chaos by an unlikely leader named Evan Whitesky, they endeavor to restore order while grappling with a grave decision.

In order to have a more intimate conversation, space is limited. Please register online in order to receive the Zoom link. Questions? Please call (860) 868 0518 or email [email protected]. This is a free event, but donations are appreciated.

Register here

Visit our exhibit about the unique people, places and events that have shaped Washington’s rich history.

The Museum offers free guided tours every Saturday at 1:00 pm. Private tours and large group tours can be coordinated upon request. For scheduling or more information, please email [email protected] or [email protected].

Hours of Operation:
Thursdays/Fridays from 10am-4pm
Saturdays from 10am – 3pm
*Free Admission*

We are delighted to share these positive reviews of “Washington, Connecticut: An American Story”:

• Bill Hosley posted a review on the Creating Sense of Place for Connecticut Facebook page. Bill Hosley, is the former curator of the Wadsworth Atheneum and is still active in local history initiatives.
• Tracey O’Shaughnessy’s review was published in the Republican American. She is the Associate Features Editor and coordinates the newspaper’s visual arts and theater coverage. She has received national and regional awards for her arts criticism, commentary and news features.

In an immersive forest setting with no locks, keys or clocks, Wigwam Escape’s thematic puzzles challenge game players to hunt, find water and prepare food similar to how Native people did for thousands of years prior to European contact. The Institute for American Indian Studies, proudly presents a new way to interact with history, a themed escape room, Wigwam Escape.

For more information or to book your escape room, go to: wigwamescape.org.

Start your week with some after-school fun! Join us for Monday Afternoon Gaming at the library every Monday from January 6th to March 31st, 3:30 to 4:30 PM.

Students in grades 4 and up can play Nintendo Switch games from our collection, including:

– FIFA – Kick off the fun with exciting soccer matches.
– Mario Kart – Race your friends and leave them in the dust.
– Pokémon – Catch ‘em all and explore the Pokémon universe.
– Kirby – Team up with Kirby for colorful adventures.
– Sonic – Speed through levels with Sonic and friends.
– Mario Party – Challenge your friends to mini-game madness.

…and so much more!

With a variety of games to choose from, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to unwind, have fun, and connect with friends after school. Space is limited, and registration is required, so be sure to sign up early! Please sign up on our website.

Seeking young musicians in grades 6-12

Registration is now open for young musicians in grades 6-12 for this unique orchestral program, beginning January 2025. This year, students will take a field trip to see the NYC Pops at Carnegie Hall, and perform in multiple concerts. Practice sessions will be led by musicians James and Krystyana Czeiner – both Juilliard alumni and Grammy recipients. Learn more and register today via asapct.org.

Fun French Games and Conversation for Kids at the Gunn Library

The Gunn Memorial Library invites intermediate and advanced French-speaking children, ages 6-10, to join us for an hour of fun and interactive language practice! This engaging program combines games with French conversation, allowing young learners to improve their language skills while enjoying themselves.

Led by experienced facilitators, the session will encourage fluency, build confidence, and create a playful environment where kids can connect with fellow French speakers.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse your child in the beauty of the French language. Registration is required, so please visit our website to secure your spot!
Venez jouer et apprendre avec nous!

ASAP!’s 20th Annual Celebration of Young Writers empowers students to share their love of writing with the world. Public, private and homeschooled students from across Connecticut are invited to submit for a chance to be recognized for their outstanding work, and read their piece in front of a live audience. The Celebration of Young Writers stage is a place where student voices are amplified, and their passion for writing can be shared with the world. 2024 top selected works will be presented to the public and shared through ASAP!’s website. Submissions to the Celebration of Young Writers are free.

Celebration of Young Writers was inspired by ASAP!’s objective to foster children’s creativity and imagination in the literary arts. It was established with the help of Ellen and Frank McCourt, Ann and Denis Leary, and Susanna Salk.

Learn more

Join us for another relaxing craft time in the Makerspace! De-stress as you listen to calming music and make cards with watercolor paints.
Ages 18+. Registration encouraged.

Register here

The Gunn Memorial Library will participate in “Take Your Child to the Library Day,” an international event that raises awareness about the importance of libraries in children’s lives.

Bring your little ones to celebrate with Miss Linda during a special storytime and craft session. She will read Maisy Goes to the Library by Lucy Cousins, a delightful tale perfect for preschoolers through 2nd graders. After storytime, kids can enjoy a fun craft and explore all the excellent resources your library offers. From books, DVDs, and music to puzzles, audiobooks, computers, games, and even toys—your library has something for everyone! Be sure to pick up a schedule of upcoming activities and learn more about how we support lifelong learning and fun for all ages. We look forward to seeing you there!

Spaces are limited, so please register online

Gunn Memorial Library and Steep Rock Association Invite Kids to Build a Toad Abode!

We’re excited to welcome back Steep Rock Association for another collaboration with our community children. This time, we invite you to give a toad a home in your yard! Not only are toads adorable and fun to watch, but they’re also great garden helpers, devouring thousands of bugs and slugs to protect your plants. Join Rory Larson and Denise Arturi of Steep Rock Association to learn about these fascinating creatures and build your toad house to take home.

This hands-on program is perfect for children ages five and up.

Spaces are limited to 25 participants, so register early to secure your spot on our website.

Rumsey Hall School is excited to open our ice rink to the community for free skating sessions on select dates/times. Bring your friends and family, lace up your skates, and enjoy some time on the ice! Please note that helmets are required for kids.

January 1: 12:00pm – 2:00pm (Family Free Skate) 2:15pm – 4:15pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 2: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 3: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 4: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
January 11: 4:15pm – 6:15pm
January 18: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 1: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
February 8: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 15: 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

The Gunn Library is showing a brilliant and stunning new movie in February, so be sure not to miss it!

Conclave follows one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events–selecting a new pope. The Church’s most powerful leaders have gathered from around the world, locked together in the Vatican halls. Tasked with running this covert process, Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) finds himself at the center of a conspiracy and discovers a secret that could shake the very foundation of The Church. Also starring Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini and directed by Edward Berger.

Learn more

You’re invited to a Valentine crafternoon in the Makerspace! Stop in to make cards, treat boxes, and other sweet and simple gifts with the Cricut machines.

Ages 18+. Registration encouraged.

Register here

This Valentine’s season, invite your little ones to join an interactive journey of love and discovery with the Where Is Baby’s Valentine? Program. With its heartwarming Valentine’s theme, this program introduces concepts of love and affection while supporting early literacy and joyful parent-child bonding.

Space is limited, and registration is required, so be sure to sign up on our website.

In this three-week workshop, learn the basics of machine quilting as you create a table runner. You’ll learn to cut fabric, piece a quilt top with accurate ¼” seams, and use a sewing machine to quilt your table runner and add binding. All materials are provided, but you can bring your fabric if desired. If you choose to bring your own fabric, please contact the Makerspace at [email protected] for requirements. Ages 18+. Participants must attend all three sessions.

Register here

Learn how to unleash your creativity with computer coding at the Makerspace! Participants will discover how to turn their digital creations into real objects by using code to make design files for the embroidery machine and 3D printer. Grades 4-5.

Register here

It’s awards season at the American Library Association! Visit the Makerspace this month to learn more about the Caldecott Medal for picture book illustrators, discover some past winners, and make a project inspired by their award-winning art. Ages 5+ with a caregiver.

Register here

We are pleased to present our 2025 Winter Puppet Shows. Each of these shows are appropriate for all ages, though are designed for young children ages 4 and up. The shows start in the morning at 10:30 AM and last approximately 45 minutes with open-gym play time after the show until 12:00 PM.

Tickets are $10. Children under 2 are free.

Please note: if you are attending “The Voyage” on 2.8.25, your children are invited to attend the “The Space Show” free of charge.

Register here

Rumsey Hall School is excited to open our ice rink to the community for free skating sessions on select dates/times. Bring your friends and family, lace up your skates, and enjoy some time on the ice! Please note that helmets are required for kids.

January 1: 12:00pm – 2:00pm (Family Free Skate) 2:15pm – 4:15pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 2: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 3: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 4: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
January 11: 4:15pm – 6:15pm
January 18: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 1: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
February 8: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 15: 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

Did you know that the library has its own app? Or can you watch movies and documentaries for free with your library card? Learn all this and more at this month’s Tech Tuesday workshop! We’ll explore the library’s digital resources and introduce several tools for managing your library account, borrowing ebooks and audiobooks, reading digital newspapers and magazines, exploring history, and learning a new language. Ages 18+

Register here

Create your own pillow phone stand in this beginner-friendly sewing workshop. You’ll learn how to thread the Makerspace’s sewing machines, select the best stitch settings, sew an accurate seam allowance, and work with fiberfill as you create a practical project that’s also great for gifting! Ages 18+.

Register here

Join Us for Valentine’s Crafting Fun at Gunn Memorial Library!

Bring your creativity and a little love to the library as we make Valentine’s Day unique! Join Miss Linda for a fun-filled crafting session where kids can create Valentine cards for someone special. Your child will use markers, stickers, ribbons, and tissue paper for their card, and their artistic touch will bring these one-of-a-kind cards to life. Expect plenty of pink, red, glitter, and lace to make each creation uniquely personal.

All supplies are provided, and this event is perfect for kids of all ages.

Space is limited, so please register online at https://www.gunnlibrary.org/calendar/valentine-crafts/

Rumsey Hall School is excited to open our ice rink to the community for free skating sessions on select dates/times. Bring your friends and family, lace up your skates, and enjoy some time on the ice! Please note that helmets are required for kids.

January 1: 12:00pm – 2:00pm (Family Free Skate) 2:15pm – 4:15pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 2: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 3: 2:30pm – 4:00pm (Family Free Skate), 4:15pm – 5:45 pm (Sticks and Pucks)
January 4: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
January 11: 4:15pm – 6:15pm
January 18: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 1: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
February 8: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
February 15: 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

The Gunn Museum and Makerspace present a series of craft workshops inspired by artifacts from the Museum’s collections. These hands-on workshops blend creativity, history, and art, providing participants with a unique learning experience.

February’s workshop explores the history of fashion through the art of paper dolls. Participants will view handmade paper dolls from the Gunn Museum’s collection and then design and create their own using an assortment of art supplies and the Cricut cutting machine. This hands-on activity offers an exceptional way to connect creativity and history.

Register here

February 20 : Poet Ellen Bass, Indigo (2020)
March 20 : Poet Dorianne Laux, Life On Earth (2024)
April 17 : Poet Mark Doty, Deep Lane ( 2015)

Join us as we explore three contemporary U.S. poets who build upon and reshape the confessional form that Sylvia Plath and Robert Lowell pioneered. We will focus on the latest collections from Ellen Bass, Dorianne Laux, and Mark Doty and examine how these poets transform personal experiences through their craft.
We encourage you to read these collections thoughtfully, savoring a few poems at a time, and bring your copy to the discussion. Together, we’ll dive into the nuances of these outstanding poets and their evolving approach to the confessional style.
* Copies will be available for check out at the circulation desk or can be purchased through Hickory Stick Bookshop.

About Mark Scarbrough:
A former academic, Mark Scarbrough dropped out of seminary to do his doctoral work in nineteenth-century American literature at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He has given papers on medieval literature at the International Medieval Conference in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and American literature at MLA and regional MLA conferences. He has also written screenplays for various production companies and developed most of the original food content in the early 1990s for a small internet start-up called America Online. Mark Scarbrough is the co-author of thirty-five titles (and a thriving) cookbook career. In 2020, Mark published his memoir, “Bookmarked: How The Great Works Of Western Civilization F*cked Up My Life,” which Will Schwalbe called “equal parts charm, wit, and withering self-reflection.” Having left the classroom, Mark again finds himself enmeshed in literature, leading grant-sponsored book groups and six- to eight-week literary seminars across Litchfield County, Connecticut, and Berkshire County, Massachusetts.

Registration is required. Register here

Gather your friends and family or join a team on the spot as we attempt to complete a 1,000-piece puzzle in just 90 minutes. Enjoy the friendly teamwork and the satisfaction of watching the pieces come together!

To make the evening even sweeter, we’ll serve hot cocoa, assorted teas, and cookies, ensuring everyone stays warm and energized during this delightful winter event.
This is the perfect opportunity to relax, connect, and unwind with your community while indulging in puzzling fun. Don’t miss out—mark your calendar and join us for a night of laughter, creativity, and camaraderie.

Learn more

Come to the library to experience a book with your mind and five senses! This entertaining book focuses on sensory development, vocabulary building, and early exploration skills. The repetitive structure and descriptive language help young readers learn new words and concepts, enhancing their language and cognitive development.

Space is limited, and registration is required, so be sure to sign up on our website.

Create a cute and cuddly penguin plushie using the Makerspace’s sewing machines! No prior sewing experience is needed. We’ll review everything you need to know to complete your project, including how to thread the machine, select the right stitches, sew an accurate seam allowance, and add stuffing. Grades 6-12.

Register here

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

Introduction to AI with Mary Mc Pheat

Three town libraries – Roxbury, Bridgewater, and Washington – collaborate to present you Introduction to AI, with Mary McPheat.

Session #2: Making Use of AI in Your Business

This session provides an overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI), its capabilities, and its practical business applications. Participants will learn about the AI landscape, explore various tools and platforms, and understand how AI can support businesses in growth and efficiency.

Mary McPheat is recognized for her strategic insight into enhancing operational workflows and ability to harness technology to improve organizational performance. As Founder and CEO of Grounded Logic, a firm focused on operational excellence and integrating generative AI and tech-enabled solutions, she elevates team dynamics and business delivery standards. In addition to leading Grounded Logic, Mary imparts her knowledge by teaching and guiding students to navigate and apply AI in modern.

Start your week with some after-school fun! Join us for Monday Afternoon Gaming at the library every Monday from January 6th to March 31st, 3:30 to 4:30 PM.

Students in grades 4 and up can play Nintendo Switch games from our collection, including:

– FIFA – Kick off the fun with exciting soccer matches.
– Mario Kart – Race your friends and leave them in the dust.
– Pokémon – Catch ‘em all and explore the Pokémon universe.
– Kirby – Team up with Kirby for colorful adventures.
– Sonic – Speed through levels with Sonic and friends.
– Mario Party – Challenge your friends to mini-game madness.

…and so much more!

With a variety of games to choose from, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to unwind, have fun, and connect with friends after school. Space is limited, and registration is required, so be sure to sign up early! Please sign up on our website.

Seeking young musicians in grades 6-12

Registration is now open for young musicians in grades 6-12 for this unique orchestral program, beginning January 2025. This year, students will take a field trip to see the NYC Pops at Carnegie Hall, and perform in multiple concerts. Practice sessions will be led by musicians James and Krystyana Czeiner – both Juilliard alumni and Grammy recipients. Learn more and register today via asapct.org.

ASAP!’s 20th Annual Celebration of Young Writers empowers students to share their love of writing with the world. Public, private and homeschooled students from across Connecticut are invited to submit for a chance to be recognized for their outstanding work, and read their piece in front of a live audience. The Celebration of Young Writers stage is a place where student voices are amplified, and their passion for writing can be shared with the world. 2024 top selected works will be presented to the public and shared through ASAP!’s website. Submissions to the Celebration of Young Writers are free.

Celebration of Young Writers was inspired by ASAP!’s objective to foster children’s creativity and imagination in the literary arts. It was established with the help of Ellen and Frank McCourt, Ann and Denis Leary, and Susanna Salk.

Learn more

Enjoy Washington-Gunn Family Skate on Sundays this winter! Sponsored jointly by Washington Parks & Rec and The Frederick Gunn School.
Every Sunday beginning December 8th – March 2nd from 4:45pm – 6:30pm at the Gunn Linen Rink

Gunn families & children registered in NWYH Program are admitted free of charge. Snack Bar provided by Shepaug Ice Hockey.

February 20 : Poet Ellen Bass, Indigo (2020)
March 20 : Poet Dorianne Laux, Life On Earth (2024)
April 17 : Poet Mark Doty, Deep Lane ( 2015)

Join us as we explore three contemporary U.S. poets who build upon and reshape the confessional form that Sylvia Plath and Robert Lowell pioneered. We will focus on the latest collections from Ellen Bass, Dorianne Laux, and Mark Doty and examine how these poets transform personal experiences through their craft.
We encourage you to read these collections thoughtfully, savoring a few poems at a time, and bring your copy to the discussion. Together, we’ll dive into the nuances of these outstanding poets and their evolving approach to the confessional style.
* Copies will be available for check out at the circulation desk or can be purchased through Hickory Stick Bookshop.

About Mark Scarbrough:
A former academic, Mark Scarbrough dropped out of seminary to do his doctoral work in nineteenth-century American literature at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He has given papers on medieval literature at the International Medieval Conference in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and American literature at MLA and regional MLA conferences. He has also written screenplays for various production companies and developed most of the original food content in the early 1990s for a small internet start-up called America Online. Mark Scarbrough is the co-author of thirty-five titles (and a thriving) cookbook career. In 2020, Mark published his memoir, “Bookmarked: How The Great Works Of Western Civilization F*cked Up My Life,” which Will Schwalbe called “equal parts charm, wit, and withering self-reflection.” Having left the classroom, Mark again finds himself enmeshed in literature, leading grant-sponsored book groups and six- to eight-week literary seminars across Litchfield County, Connecticut, and Berkshire County, Massachusetts.

Registration is required. Register here

Seeking young musicians in grades 6-12

Registration is now open for young musicians in grades 6-12 for this unique orchestral program, beginning January 2025. This year, students will take a field trip to see the NYC Pops at Carnegie Hall, and perform in multiple concerts. Practice sessions will be led by musicians James and Krystyana Czeiner – both Juilliard alumni and Grammy recipients. Learn more and register today via asapct.org.

Visit our exhibit about the unique people, places and events that have shaped Washington’s rich history.

The Museum offers free guided tours every Saturday at 1:00 pm. Private tours and large group tours can be coordinated upon request. For scheduling or more information, please email [email protected] or [email protected].

Hours of Operation:
Thursdays/Fridays from 10am-4pm
Saturdays from 10am – 3pm
*Free Admission*

We are delighted to share these positive reviews of “Washington, Connecticut: An American Story”:

• Bill Hosley posted a review on the Creating Sense of Place for Connecticut Facebook page. Bill Hosley, is the former curator of the Wadsworth Atheneum and is still active in local history initiatives.
• Tracey O’Shaughnessy’s review was published in the Republican American. She is the Associate Features Editor and coordinates the newspaper’s visual arts and theater coverage. She has received national and regional awards for her arts criticism, commentary and news features.