GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
granby-ct.gov/Library
860-844-5275
gplibrary@granby-ct.gov
Library Hours–Main Branch
Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Library Hours–Cossitt Branch
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 1–6 p.m.
2nd and 4th Saturdays: (7/13, 7/27, 8/10, 8/24) 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Registration is required for most library programs. To register, visit granby-ct.gov/Library and click on “Register for a Program” or call the library at 860-844-5275. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter.
GPL= Granby Main Branch FHC=Cossitt Branch
Library programs at GPL Main Branch, unless indicated.
Annual Summer Reading Program
June 13 – August 3, All ages. Sign up for this fun and engaging community program designed to ignite a passion for reading during the heat of summer. This program offers fun programs, activities, prizes and more, all to support this year’s Summer Reading theme, “Read, Renew, Repeat. Sign up online at www.granby-ct.gov/library
Great Granby Goosechase: Get ready to embark on an exciting adventure of exploration and reading this summer with the “Great Granby Goosechase.” This town-wide scavenger hunt is the perfect way to kick off the summer season, connect with the community, promote literacy and have some outdoor fun! Gather your family, friends and neighbors to form a team and register on our library website starting June 13. A variety of prizes will be awarded to teams at the end of summer!
Book Clubs
Books for book discussions are available at the library, online and through curbside pickup. Register online or call the library at 860-844-5275 to reserve your seat.
Millennials Read: Wednesdays, July 3, Aug. 7 and Sept. 4, 6:30–8 p.m. Ages: millennials. Each month is at a new local hotspot. Check library calendar for each month’s spot. At this no-stress book discussion, join readers in their 20s, 30s and 40s to talk about current book picks. You do not need to be reading anything specific to come and fill up your to-be-read list.
Something About the Author Book Club: Monday, July 1, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Ages: adult. Discussing adult and children’s novelist and poet Louise Erdrich. Her works feature Native American characters and settings. She won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction for her novel The Night Watchman. Leading the discussion is John Rusnock. Registration is requested.
Monday, Aug. 5, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Discussing the late mystery novelist Colin Dexter. The popular PBS series’ Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour are all based on Dexter’s Inspector Morse novels. Leading the discussion is John Rusnock. Registration is requested. No meeting in September.
Sci/Fi Fantasy Book Club: Wednesday, July 31, 6–7 p.m. Discussing Nevernight by Jay Kristoff. Book One of an internationally bestselling trilogy, this is a dark fantasy novel that follows a fledgling assassin who is seeking vengeance against the powers who destroyed her family. Leading the discussion is Jim Gorman. Registration is requested.
Wednesday, Aug. 28, 6–7 p.m. Discussing Borne by Jeff Vandermeer. A post-apocalyptic story about humans and monsters, survival and violence, trust and betrayal, forgiveness and love and a giant bear named Mord that can fly! Leading the discussion is Jim Gorman. Registration is requested.
Adult Programs
Summer Music And Dance! Wednesdays in July, 6:30 –7:30 p.m. At GPL, on the patio and lawn OR Community Room, Granby Senior/Youth Center. All ages welcome.Enjoy a variety of unique music and dance performances. Bring your own seating and picnic on the lawn for the outdoor entertainment OR arrive “as you are” for the performances scheduled indoors. Registration requested. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Banjo Pickin’ Gals, Wednesday, July 10, 6:30 –7:30 p.m. On the Library patio and lawn (wet weather moves the performance inside). Celebrate the music and enjoy the stories of groundbreaking female banjo players who influenced the genre in the decades between the 1920s and 1940s. In a lively performance, Paula Bradley and Marylou Ferrante share well-known tunes and several tales about these talented and influential women.
The Attik Band, Wednesday, July 17, 6:30 –7:30 p.m. On the Library patio and lawn (wet weather moves the performance inside). The Attik Band is not your typical teenage “just-for-fun” band. The four high-school musicians in this exceptional ensemble specialize in blues/rock and cover a variety of material from other genres. Registration requested.
West African Dance and Drum Corps, Wednesday, July 24, 6:30 –7:30 p.m. Community Room, Granby Senior/Youth Center. Alpha Kabisko Kaba has more than 35 years of professional dance and drum experience since his arrival in the U.S. in 1998. Gain insight into a culturally-rich style of rhythmic storytelling from students and alumni with the Pioneer Valley Performing Arts School.
Accordions Alive! Wednesday, July 31, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Community Room, Granby Senior/Youth Center. Paul Ramunni, Director of the New England Accordion Connection and Museum Company, delivers an entertaining performance and shares true stories from the era of the accordion, 1820s to present day.
Movie Matinee: The Boys in the Boat,Monday, July 8, 1:30–3:30 p.m. GPL, Fox Room. PG-13. Registration required.
Movie Matinee: The Spy,Monday, Aug. 12,1:30–3:30 p.m., GPL, Fox Room. Rated R. Registration required.
Tie Dye 2024! Saturday, July 20 (rain date Aug. 3) GPL, Choose one session: 10–10:45 a.m.; 11–11:45 a.m.; 12–12:45 p.m. All ages. Tie dye fans love this annual event. We provide tie dye supplies and instruction, you make a unique piece of wearable art. Bring pre-washed cotton items like T-shirts, towels, socks or pillowcases. There are giveaways for participants who pre-register. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Cossitt Creation Station Makerspace
Programs at GPL Cossitt Branch, unless indicated. For adults and teens, 16+.
Weave-A-Palooza! Saturday, July 13, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., FHC, on the lawn under the tent and inside the library.Ages: adults and Youth 8+.Celebrate warp and weft with programs dedicated to weaving. Register for three specially scheduled programs. The day also features drop-in activities, including weaving items from nature on the outdoor loom, making Julehjerter (Danish paper hearts) and creating a community tapestry on the indoor fabric loom. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Twist and Weave: Hoop Creations, Saturday, July 13, 10:30–11:30 a.m. FHC, on the lawn under the tent Ages: 8–12 years. Discover the magic of weaving with children’s and teen librarian, Miss Michele. Tweens will learn to create beautiful designs using round looms and vibrant yarns. Register now and weave your own masterpiece with us.
Darn It, Saturday, July 13,10:30–11:30 a.m. FHC, on the lawn under the tent Ages: Adults and teens, 13+. Art instructor Katherine Tolve leads a simple weaving process on mini looms and teaches participants how to darn (patch) those holey socks, sheets and other fabrics. Registration required.
A tisket a tasket: The art and lore of the basket, Saturday, July 13, 1–2 p.m. FHC, upper level. Ages: adults and teens, 13+. Historian Dennis Picard offers insights into basic basket construction and shares examples of different styles of weaving. Registration required.
Sew Much Fun: Tote Bags, Wednesday July 10, 2–4 p.m. FHC, CCS. Ages: adults and teens,16+. Beginners will have fun making tote bags with Casey LaPlante. Registration required. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Sew Much Fun: Throw Pillow Cover, Wednesday July 17, 2–4 p.m. FHC, CCS. Ages: adults and teens, 16+. Casey LaPlante returns to instruct beginners on how to make a decorative pillow cover. Registration required. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Sew Much Fun: Quilted Zipper Pouch, Wednesday, July 24, 2–4 p.m. FHC, CCS. Ages: adults and teens, 16+. Learn to make a whimsical zipper pouch with instructor Casey LaPlante. No previous sewing experience necessary. Registration required. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Personalized Water Bottles, Thursday, July 25, 1:30–2:30 p.m. FHC, CCS. Ages: adults. Create a personalized water bottle using our Cricut cutting machines and tumbler press.
Label, Label, Label, Thursday, Aug. 8, 1:30–2:30 p.m. FHC, CCS. Ages: adult. It’s time to get ready for back to school! Come join us at the library for a special program where you can label your kids’ school supplies using our embroidery machine! Bring in your children’s backpacks, lunch boxes and other cloth school essentials and learn how to use our machine to add personalized labels.
Intro to Basket Making, Saturday, Aug. 10, 10–12:30 p.m. FHC, CCS. Ages: adults and teens, 16+. Learn the techniques and skills required to construct a common style gathering/herb basket with a handle. Measuring, cutting and preparing materials will be explained by historian and craftsman Dennis Picard and participants will take home their own basket. All materials are provided. Registration required. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Makerspace Equipment Demonstration and Training, Cossitt Creation Station, FHC, Ages: adults and teens, 16+. Register for any small-group class OR register for an individual session. Upon completion of the class, attendees will be certified to reserve and use the equipment at the Cossitt Creation Station. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.
Custom Design Demo and Training, Choose one session: Tuesdays, July 9, 23, Aug. 6, 20, 4:30–6 p.m. FHC. There are so many ways to use Cricut and Brother machines! Find your creative happy place when our makerspace technician provides hands-on learning featuring sublimation techniques and other processes.
Digitizing Demo and Training, Choose one session, Tuesdays, July 16, 30, Aug. 13, 27. FHC Convert old technology into new digital formats. Learn to edit and share VHS home videos, slides, vinyl records, cassette tapes and more. Convert old 8 mm movies with the new Wolverine.
Laser Cutting Demo and Training, Choose one session, Thursdays, July 11, 25, Aug. 8, 22. FHC Learn to use the Glowforge Pro laser cutter to cut, score and engrave on wood, cardstock, acrylic and leather.
3D Printer Demo and Training, Choose one session, Thursdays, July 18, Aug. 1, 15, 29. FHC Gain an understanding of 3D printing when you learn to use the library’s two Bambu 3D printers. There are thousands of objects to print.
Kids Programs
Sunshine Storytime, Tuesdays, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; GPL, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 2–5. Join us on Tuesday mornings for a summer storytime! Each week will feature a unique theme through songs, stories, sign language, and a simple craft. Please register separately for each program.
July 2–The Great Outdoors, July 9– At the Beach,
July 1– On the Farm, July 2–: Dynamic Dinosaurs,
July 30–To the Moon
Sparking Curiosity: Exploring Static Power, Monday, July 8, GPL, 2–3 p.m. Ages: 5–10. Children are invited to learn about the captivating realm of static electricity through interactive experiments and engaging activities. From crafting static art to racing charged balloons, this hands-on program sparks curiosity and exploration while teaching young minds about the science behind static electricity.
Whimsical Weavings: Popsicle Tapestry Art, Wednesday, July 10, GPL, 2–3p.m. Ages: 9– 12. Children are invited to join us for this “whimsical” hands-on crafting adventure, where they’ll transform simple popsicle sticks into captivating wall tapestries. Registration is required.
Teddy Bear Picnic, Wednesday, July 10, GPL, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Ages: 3–6. Gather your favorite stuffed companions and join us for a delightful Teddy Bear Picnic on the library lawn! Enjoy teddy bear tales, interactive songs, and games. Bring your picnic blankets and snacks as we create special memories with our cuddly friends. It’s a perfect opportunity for young ones to socialize, explore, and enjoy the beauty of reading outdoors.
Toddler Play and Learn, Thursdays, July 11, 18, 25. GPL, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 12 mos.–3 yrs. Caregivers and their children are invited to the Children’s program room to play and socialize with others.
Buzzing With Bees: A Beekeeper Presentation, Thursday, July 11, GPL, 1–2 p.m. Ages: 7–13. Join us for an exciting adventure with beekeeper Emilia Sales! In this interactive library program, learn about the life of bees, their important role in our ecosystem, and how they make honey. Experience the buzz of excitement as Emilia demonstrates beekeeping tools like the smoker and showcases the protective bee suit. Registration required; space is limited.
Giant Room: Creative Recycling! Wednesday, July 17; GPL, 2–3:30 p.m. Ages: 5–10. Inspired by a delightful picture book, families will dive into a world of creativity and environmental awareness. Through hands-on stations, children and parents will sculpt imaginative clay creations and craft artworks using recycled materials. Explore how everyday items can be repurposed into beautiful art while fostering a love for storytelling and sustainability.
Construct and Create: LEGO® Edition. Monday, Ju;y 15, GPL, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Ages: 5–11. Join us for an exciting afternoon of creativity and construction with LEGO bricks. This hands-on workshop encourages young builders to explore their imaginations, tackle building challenges, and collaborate on themed projects.
Ready, Set, Kindergarten! Wednesdays, July 24, 31 and August 7, 14, 21, GPL, 10:30–11:15 a.m. Ages: 4-5 years. Prepare your little ones for kindergarten with our fun and educational program! Designed for young children, this engaging session will focus on essential skills such as early literacy, basic math, and social interaction through stories, games, and hands-on activities. Registration required.
Simply Enchanted, Friday, July 19, GPL, 10:30–11:15 a.m. Ages: 3+. Join us for a magical morning with Encanto’s Mirabel and Tangle’s Rapunzel! Find your own magic in a fun filled morning with live singing, story, games and fun! Performance is approximately 30 minutes and recommended for ages 3+. Registration required.
Feathered Friends. Wed July 24, GPL, 1–2 p.m. Ages: 8+. Feathered Friends will begin with a brief introduction to birds, their habitats, and unique characteristics. Children will engage in a hands-on crafting experience as they create colorful birds using yarn, bird shaped cutouts, and a variety of embellishments.
Construct and Create: Straws Edition. Monday, July 22, GPL, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Ages: 5–11. Join us for an afternoon of creativity and construction with straws and connectors. This workshop encourages young builders to explore their imaginations, tackle building challenges, and collaborate on themed projects.
Hogwarts Eco-Potion Class, Monday, July 29, GPL, 1–2 p.m. Ages: 8+. Welcome to Hogwarts Eco-Potion Class, an enchanting journey into the world of magical potions inspired by the beloved Harry Potter series. In this interactive library program participants will learn the art of potion-making while also embracing the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
Family Yoga, Monday, July 29, GPL, 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. All ages. Led by certified instructor Aubrey Schulz, this 45-minute program is designed for all ages and skill levels, providing an opportunity to stretch, breathe. Aubrey will guide you through a series of gentle poses and mindful exercises that promote relaxation, flexibility, and fun. Please bring your own mat, or towel and dress comfortably. Registration required.
Teen Prograns
Teen Sketchbook Basics Workshop. Tuesdays, July 9, 16, 23, GPL, 2–3:30 p.m. Grades: 6–12. Join us for a hands-on Teen Sketchbook Basics Workshop! Discover the essentials of sketching using sketchbooks, pencils and colored markers. Unleash your creativity as we explore techniques to bring your ideas to life on paper. Perfect for beginners and aspiring artists alike!
Crochet Critters: Teen Amigurumi Workshop. Monday, July 15, GPL, 6–7:30 p.m. Grades: 6–12. Learn the art of crochet and how to craft amigurumi animals! In this workshop series, teens will master basic crochet techniques, such as chaining, single crochet, and increasing/decreasing stitches, while creating cute and cuddly creatures. Yarn and hooks will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own. Registration required.
Macramé Jewelry. Monday, July 22, GPL, 6–7 p.m. Grades 6–12. You can easily make a bracelet or necklace by learning just a few basic macramé knots. Beth Van Ness will teach you basic knots and then show you how to design and make a unique piece of jewelry. All materials are included. Registration required.