Granby Public Library’s Summer Celebration!
June 17 – Aug. 7
Tails and Tales at Your Library
Granby Public Library welcomes library patrons of all ages to participate in a series of fun-filled events this summer that will get you excited about reading, learning and growing together. This year’s theme, Tails and Tales, invites patrons to explore stories and events that feature animals, as well as opportunities to gather with friends and neighbors in a safe, distanced way. Register on the library website or in person, and visit the GPL for opportunities to enter our prize drawing and to borrow materials – the library truly has something for everyone!
Summer Reading Kickoff with Jester Jim: In person, Thursday, June 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m.(Rain date June 19).All ages, at the Bandshell at Salmon Brook Park. Our Summer Reading Program begins with master juggler and all-around amazing performer, Jester Jim! This is not your ordinary juggling show – he’ll make you laugh and make you gasp – did we mention there will be fire?! You won’t believe your eyes! A performance the whole family will enjoy. Please bring a blanket or lawn chairs to sit on as we try to stay socially distant on the lawn. Everyone over the age of two must wear a mask. Please register in advance at GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov or by calling 860-844-5275. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.
Mama! It’s A Llama! Tuesday, June 22, 10:30-11:30 a.m.Rain date June 19). Ages 3 and up.At the GPL Patio. Country Quilt Llama Farm returns for another visit. Come meet a real, live llama and learn all about these beautiful, gentle creatures. We’ll read a story, answer your questions, then give everyone a chance to pet our guest of honor. We’ll also have a special llama craft for kids to take home and complete. Please bring a blanket for your family to sit on as we stay socially distant – and masked – out on the library lawn. Hand sanitizer and baby wipes will be available. Please register in advance. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.
Godspeed The Plow: Songs of Farming and Rural Life: In-person, Thursday, June 24, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Holcomb Farm’s North Barn Pavilion, 113 Simsbury Road, West Granby. Join us for a musically entertaining and historically inspired program featuring songs celebrating farm and rural life throughout American history. Performers Rick Spencer and Dawn Indermuehle include light-hearted songs about rural life, as well as contemplative, philosophical pieces about the challenges of making a living from the land—from the 1780s to modern times. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library and Salmon Brook Historical Society.
Cats and Dogs Series: Virtual programs. Does your dog have a mind of its own? Is your cat having difficulty adjusting to a new home? Understand why this happens and learn steps you can take to modify your pet’s behavior when the library hosts two virtual programs for cat and dog lovers.
Understanding Your Dog: Wednesday, June 23, 6:30 – 8 p.m.Join Phil Klein, certified dog listener, and learn to “speak” the language of canines. Gain an understanding of the four key drivers of canine behavior as well as the surprising cause of common issues including anxieties, toileting indoors, excessive barking, aggression, jumping, pulling and destructive chewing. Help transform your dog’s behavior in a kind, lasting way by using simple, dog-friendly practices. Have your questions ready for an informative, fun, virtual session. Register online to receive the Zoom program link.
Understanding Your Cat: Wednesday, June 30, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Nationally recognized cat behavior counselor and author Rachel Geller, Ed. D. provides resources to help you work with a behaviorally challenged feline. Understand ways to help a shy cat adjust, get informed advice about living in a multi-cat household, and learn tips for dealing with litter box and scratching post issues. The author of Saving the World, One Cat at a Time: What I Know About Cats – And Why You Should Know It, Too is donating proceeds from her online book sales to Granby’s local feline rescue organization, Mary’s Kitty Korner. Be sure to have your questions ready for the virtual session. Register online to receive the Zoom program link.
Ebony Horsewomen Equestrian Center: In-person, Saturday, June 26, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
You are invited to visit and tour a nationally recognized equine therapeutic facility at 337 Vine Street (Keney Park) in Hartford that is the only African-American organization in the country doing intensive equine-assisted therapy with people of all ages. Meet founder Patricia Kelly, tour the grounds and visit the Mary Fields Museum. Born a slave, Mary Fields (1832–1914) lived in Montana with the Ursuline Sisters who established an Indian boarding school and mission. Fields, also known as Stagecoach Mary and Black Mary, was the first African-American female Star Route mail carrier in the United States. Register online and note transportation requirements in the Special Needs box. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.
Creative Corner Series at Holcomb Farm Workshop: Fairy Tails: In-person, Tuesday, June 29, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Holcomb Farm, Workshop, 113 Simsbury Road, West Granby. Ages 10-18. We’re kicking off the Tails and Tales summer craft series with our favorite art educator, Debby Reelitz. Kids 10 and older will create a unique and colorful piece of art that combines animals and versal letters. It’s like a personal monogram for your favorite animal. Check out samples on the library’s website or Facebook page. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own set of colored pencils; all other materials will be provided. Space is limited and registration is required. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.
The Creative Corner program series will continue Tuesdays in July—July 6, 13 and 20, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Mark your calendars now and see the library calendar for additional information.
Granby Public Library System
Website: granby-ct.gov/library
Phone: 860-844-5275
Email: GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov
Library Staff Support: Library staff are in the building and available to answer questions, provide recommendations, fill holds, schedule curbside pickup and technology appointments, and assist with online research/resources six days a week.
Library Open Hours – updated and extended as of June 1
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m.– 7 p.m.
Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
All patrons over the age of 2 are expected to wear masks and sanitize their hands as they enter the building. All items being returned to the library should be put into the outdoor book drops prior to entering the building.
Curbside Library Pickup: For maximum social distancing and safe, convenient library access, Curbside Library Pickup continues to be an option. Library materials can be reserved online through the catalog or by telephone, and then patrons can schedule a pick-up appointment—no need to come inside. Call the library for details.
Registration is required for many of the library’s programs. To register, follow the links on the library’s website, granby-ct.gov/library, or call the library at 860-844-5275. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter on the website or by phone.
Library Programs – Adults and Teens
Plan B Book Club: Virtual, Tuesday, June 1, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.Join us as we connect online through reading, conversation, and good books. Leading the discussions are Doug Soucier and Beth Morrill, who have led our popular SciFi/Fantasy and Around the World book discussions. The June 1 discussion title is The Illustrated Man by Ray Bradbury. Copies are available at the library, via Overdrive and hoopla, and through curbside pickup. No time to read before June 1? No problem! Join us on July 6, when we discuss The Secret History of Wonder Woman by Jill Leport. Register online or call the library 860-844-5275. Look for a confirmation email with a Zoom link and log-in information if you sign-up online. No computer/internet at home? Join us on the phone! Call the library for information.
Outdoor Local Author Fair: In-person, Saturday, June 5, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (rain date Sunday, June 6, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.) You’re invited to Granby Public Library’s first-ever outdoor Local Author Fair. Join us on the lawn under the tent to meet several authors of adult and young adult fiction and non-fiction. The event is free to the public. There are giveaways and prize drawings, music, and an opportunity to purchase great reads signed by the authors! Support the library when you stop by the Z Catering truck to purchase beverages and breakfast foods. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to Friends of Granby Public Library.
The featured authors represent many genres, including mystery, fantasy, photojournalism, steampunk, historical fiction, paranormal, humor, memoir, poetry and more. Authors eager to meet you include: James R. Benn, Katie L. Carroll, Aliza Eliazarov, Shawn P. Flynn, Corrina Lawson, Sarah Lemire, AJ O’Connell, Steve Parlato, Cindy Rodriguez, Nancy Roman and Lisa Samia. Visit the library website for information and author profiles. The library requests all attendees follow CDC guidelines.
EFT Tapping and Intro to Meditation: Virtual,Monday, June 7, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.Certified instructor and Life Coach Cris Jacobs is back and he’s helping us take care of our mental and physical health. Learn proven techniques used by hundreds of thousands of practitioners around the world. Jacobs introduces Emotional Freedom Technique, also known as “Tapping,” and covers an introduction to simple meditation practices at the end of the session. Handouts are available. Register online to receive the Zoom program link.
Around The World Craft and Culture: Virtual, Tuesday, June 15, 6:30 – 7:45 p.m. Adults and children 10 and up will make a lovely lotus flower lantern while learning about Korea’s unique history and culture from educators with the Korean Spirit and Culture organization. Register early as space and materials are limited; then visit Granby Public Library’s main branch to pick up the project supplies and a complimentary softcover book featuring Korean culture. Samples are on display at the main branch. Register online to receive the Zoom program link. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.
Writers Group: Virtual,Tuesday, June 8 and 22, 5 – 6:30 p.m. Adult fiction writers are welcome to meet virtually at bi-weekly workshops. Hone your writing skills using a variety of creative writing activities in these interactive sessions. If you’re looking for inspiration, kindly critiquing, and an opportunity to meet other adults who share a passion for writing, register online to receive the Zoom program link.
Library Programs – For Children and Families
Good Morning Story Time: In person, Tuesdays: June 1, 8, 15 and 29 from 10:30 – 11 a.m. Ages 3-5 with caregiver. Now that the weather is nice again, it’s time to get outside. Miss Joan invites her preschool friends and their caregivers to join her for Story Time outdoors on the Patio. Let’s sing, do a fingerplay and share a story together. Please bring a blanket or beach towel for your family to sit on as we try to stay socially distant. Everyone over the age of two must wear a mask. Hand sanitizer and baby wipes will be available. No registration needed. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.
Take And Make Crafts: In person, Saturdays: June 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 10 a.m. –12 p.m.Age 3 and up. Calling all crafty kids—stop by the Children’s Room and select a craft kit from our Craft Box to take home and complete. No registration or reservation needed. An assortment of crafts for all levels of ability will be available. One craft kit per child, please. All materials and instruction will be provided. First come, first served. Craft kits will be available between the hours of 10 a.m. and noon. Supplies are limited. Note: some crafts may contain small pieces that could be a choking hazard to children age 3 and under. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.
Craftin’ Around with Miss Heather: Virtual, Tuesday, June 29, 3 – 6 p.m.Ages 4 and up. Celebrate the 4th of July with a fun and festive paper wreath. Craft kits will be available for curbside pickup on Tuesday, June 29 from 3-6 p.m. Miss Heather will post a video guide with instructions so you can make the craft along with her. The video will be posted to our Facebook and YouTube channel on June 29 for you to view and complete at your convenience. Printed instructions will also be included with the craft kit. Supplies are limited. Please register each child separately online at GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov or by calling 860-844-5275 to receive your kit. Note: You will need glue for this craft. All other supplies will be provided. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.
Yoga For Families: In person,Wednesday, June 30 from 10-11 a.m. Ahren’s Park on Hungary Road. Kids age 5-12 and their caregivers are invited to join instructor Aubrey Schulz in a yoga session for the whole family. Let go of some of that “pandemic stress” while enjoying time outside in the fresh air. Please bring a towel or yoga mat for each participant. Please register in advance for this free program. In case of rain, please check Granby Public Library’s online calendar for an update. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.
Story Stroll: In person, on the lawn near the GPL Patio. Stop by anytime and check out the latest Story Stroll. Just follow the numbers on the signs to read an entire picture book or complete a fun family activity challenge. A new Story Stroll will appear every few weeks, all summer long, so be sure to check back often.
New Nutmeg Books! The New Nutmegs books are here! Stop by or make an appointment to check out the new titles for grades 2-6 in the Children’s Room. The new titles for grades 7-12 are also available in the Teen area. Come and check out your favorites. Two New Nutmegs per patron, please.
New and Ongoing Library Services
hoopla! Granby Library patrons are now able to access the hoopla digital catalog, more than 900,000 titles of eBooks, eAudio books, music albums, TV series, and more. Download the free app and log in with your GPL library card. Every patron can borrow up to four titles a month, in addition to the items you can borrow through Overdrive/Libby and in person.
Linkedin Learning (formerly Lynda.com): The GPL now offers patrons free access to this comprehensive online learning database, where patrons can register using their library card and take classes in a variety of professional topics, including everything from Photoshop to Python, Change Management to Construction Management, Interpersonal Communication to iPads.
Jigsaw Puzzles: The library now has a collection of puzzles for patrons to borrow. Visit the library in-person to select one, or call to pick one up Curbside. Puzzles with 300 or 500 pieces are available.
Story Time On Your Time: Too busy to attend a scheduled Story Time program? Stop by or call the library and request a Story Time Bag for you and your baby or toddler. Each bag contains board books, a washable toy and pages of suggested finger plays, songs and nursery rhymes to enjoy together. Keep each bag for up to one month, then return it and check out another. Each bag is unique. Place a hold in our online catalog or by calling 860-844-5275.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten: It’s never too early to start reading to your child. Granby Public Library’s popular program is an easy and fun way to spend time reading together. We provide everything you need. We would love to help you get started! Ask for information at the Children’s Desk or give us a call: 860-844-5275 (main desk) or 860-844-5285 for Miss Joan, the Children’s Librarian.
Personal Children’s Service: Need help choosing books for your family? Miss Joan, our Children’s Librarian, is always happy to help. You can call her directly at 860-844-5285. Pick up your items curbside or schedule a time to come in and meet. Please leave a message with a callback number.