Simsbury Public Library February 2016
General Interest Programs
ART ON DISPLAY FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY: Traveling Valley Artists will display mixed
media in the Program Room. Enjoy Beth Reynolds’ watercolors in the West Gallery and her ceramic
fish and leaf platters in the Display Case. She will have a public art reception on February 7 (see
below). Simsbury Camera Club members will display their photographs in the East Gallery.
Blind Date with a Book in February.
Spice up your reading life by going on a blind date…with a book! Will your “book soul mate” be a
romance, a mystery or a biography? Between February 1st and 29th, check out a wrapped “blind
date” book at the Circulation Desk. If things don’t work out between you and your “date”, just return it
without any hurt feelings. If you decide to read the book, complete the “Rate Your Date” slip located
inside and return it by March 7 to be entered into a drawing to win a gift basket. Questions? Call 860658-7663 x2100.
Selected Fridays in February
The Computer Professor Is In
Do you have a new Nook, Kindle or iPad? Having trouble working your laptop? Just don't understand
computers? One on one tutorials are available with Susan Ray on selected Fridays from 10:00-11:00
in the office of the Head of Adult Services. You may make an appointment or just drop in for help (it is
recommended that you call ahead to determine availability). Learn anything from how to set up an
email account to downloading books and magazines to your device. For information or an
appointment call 860-658-7663 x2200.
Monday, February 1, 8, 22, and 29
6:00-7:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Fireside – Upper Level
French Conversation
Advanced French conversation group led by Christian Gaborit. Free – drop-in.
Tuesday, February 2, 9, 16, and 23
10:30-11:30 AM
Simsbury Public Library Barnes Room
English Conversation Group
The Simsbury Public Library hosts an English Conversation Group for adults (18+) wishing to improve
their spoken English. Classes are held Tuesday mornings from 10:30 to 11:30 in the Barnes Room of
the Library. The class welcomes people who are just beginning to learn English or who have limited
skills in speaking English. The class objective is to give students a chance to practice speaking
English, to encourage questions about U.S. culture and to share about other cultures, and to discuss
safety and other everyday skills in English. Donna Page and Gemma Baker will lead the informal
classes. If you, or someone you know, are interested in more information, please contact Donna at
860-658-1892 or email her at simsurf@comcast.net.
Offered Tuesdays or Wednesdays, February 2-24
1:00-2:00 PM or 2:00-3:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library, BRC Computers
Download To Kindle – Small Group Instruction
Kindle guru Gita Agrawal is offering small group instruction for 2 people at a time to learn to download
free e-books to the Kindle. Preregistration is required at 860-658-7663 or www.simsburylibrary.info.
Free and open to all.
Tuesday, February 2, 9, 16, and 23
10:00-11:30 AM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Great Decisions
This Foreign Policy discussion forum will be held on Tuesdays through March 15. Sign up by
contacting the coordinator, Dave Blume, 860-651-8302 or DJBMO@aol.com to order a copy of the
book. Sessions are open to new people and previous participants.
Tuesday, February 2
6:30-8:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
The 5-Step Program to Increase Your Platform and Multiply Your Book Sales
Do you want more people to read your book? There is ONE thing you must have to become a
successful author: a solid PLATFORM. Your platform is the number of people who know about you
and who, with the right approach, will be ready to buy your books and to tell their friends about you! In
this presentation, performance coach, author, and branding expert Cloris Kylie MBA will share her 5step system to build a solid author platform so that you increase your readership and multiply your
book sales. An advanced Toastmaster and sought-after lecturer, Cloris has been featured on various
television and radio shows, and her articles have been published on personal development and
business websites with millions of followers. Registration for this program is suggested at 860-6587663 or www.simsburylibrary.info. Free and open to all.
Wednesday, February 3, 10, 17, and 24
10:30-11:30 AM
Simsbury Public Library Fireside – Upper Level
Spanish Conversation Group
Practice your spoken Spanish or just come to socialize with people who like to speak Spanish! Fred
Kahlman will guide this weekly conversation group whose goals are to help you express yourself in
Spanish and learn more about Spanish culture. If you have questions, contact Fred at 860-653-6814.
Registration is not required and it's free - just drop-in.
Wednesday, February 3
7:00-8:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Wagner Room
Gen Y Book Discussion Group – The Fortune Hunter by Daisy Goodwin
The Simsbury Public Library offers a Gen Y Book Discussion Group for men and women in their 20’s
and 30’s. The group meets the first Wednesday of the month to discuss works of mutual interest. This
month’s book is The Fortune Hunter by Daisy Goodwin. Liza Pagano is the convener of the group. If
you are interested, please email lizapagano329@gmail.com or just drop in.
Wednesday, February 3
6:30-8:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Photography Series: You Got a New Camera – Now What?
If you received a camera for the holidays and you are not sure how to set it up, let Frank Zaremba
from the Simsbury Camera Club help you. Bring your camera to this session and find out what it can
do! All skill levels and camera types are welcome. Free and open to all. You do not need to be a
Simsbury Camera Club member to attend.
Thursday, February 4, 11, 18, and 25
10:00 AM-3:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room 2
AARP Tax Aide Program
AARP Tax-Aide Volunteers will provide free individual income tax filing assistance on Thursdays from
February 4th - April 14th. One hour appointments are available from 10 am - 3 pm; you must book an
appointment ahead of time by calling the Simsbury Senior Center at 860-658-3273. Walk-ins will not
be accepted. The program is open to anyone who needs assistance, regardless of age, income, or
town residence.
Friday, February 5, 12, 19, and 26
10:00 AM-12:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room 2
English Conversation Club
Led by Josi Klein, this group welcomes new members who wish to improve their English
Conversation skills. The Club offers a non-judgmental atmosphere to those who can commit to
regular attendance and active participation. This is a more intensive group than the conversation
group meeting on Tuesdays. If interested, please contact Josi Klein at josiklein@sbcglobal.net.
Friday, February 5
1:00-3:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Friday Flicks – Self/Less (2015)
Action, Drama, Mystery
A dying real estate mogul transfers his consciousness into a healthy young body, but soon finds that
neither the procedure nor the company that performed it are quite what they seem. Starring Ryan
Reynolds, Natalie Martinez, and Matthew Goode. Rated PG-13, 117 min.
Monday, February 8 (Snow Date: February 9)
11:45 AM-1:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Mystery Book Group – Mistress of the Art of Death
Do you love a good mystery? Join the monthly Mystery Book Group led by Carole Shmurak. This
month's book is Mistress of the Art of Death by Arianna Franklin. Books are available for check-out at
the Reference Desk. Drop-in.
Wednesday, February 10
7:00-8:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Elizabeth Lyra Ross – History of African American Music: Spirituals to Contemporary
Elizabeth Lyra Ross presents an inspirational, entertaining, and educational history of African
American music, combining singing and an interpretive narrative to give historical context to each
piece.
Elizabeth Lyra Ross's international career has included the opera roles of Aida, Tosca, and Madame
Butterfly. She has appeared with the New York Metropolitan Opera, and she was in the New York
City Opera production of Porgy and Bess that was nominated for an Emmy Award on the Live from
Lincoln Center Series. In July 2014, Elizabeth, who was the first African American female member of
The United States Army Band and Chorus, appeared with them as a guest soloist on two concerts,
including one on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. Maestro Doris Lang Kosloff, Artistic Director of
Connecticut Concert Opera, will accompany Elizabeth on the piano.
Registration is suggested at 860-658-7663 x2200 or www.simsburylibrary.info (click on calendar).
Free and open to all.
Thursday, February 11
6:30-8:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Tree Care 101
Trees are all around us, lending beauty to our surroundings and benefits to our environment. But
many tree species are under attack. It's not just necessary for tree professionals, it's important for
anyone to be able to recognize the early warning signs of a tree in decline, in order to help save an
individual tree, and other trees in the area, before it becomes too late. Join arborists as they cover
both old and new tree pests and pathogens.
This program was developed by Connecticut and Massachusetts Certified Arborists and is supported
by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. Presenters are Coordinating Arborist Mike
LeBlanc of LeBlanc Arborists in East Granby. Contributing Arborists are Mike Desantos and Rick
Daniels from Bartlett Tree Experts in Simsbury, Rich Cartier of Rainbow Treecare Scientific
Advancements, and Jeff Thomas of Grimshaw Tree Service.
Thursday, February 11
7:00-8:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room 2
Adult Book Discussion Group – The Invention of Wings
Join a lively monthly book discussion! Jackie Takiff leads the Simsbury Public Library Adult Book
Discussion Group that meets the 2nd Thursday of each month. Everyone is welcome to join at any
time. Copies of books can be checked out at the Reference Desk. Share a good book with friends,
new and old! This month's selection is The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd.
Friday, February 12
12:30-3:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Friday Flicks and Chocolate – The Notebook (2004)
Drama, Romance
A poor and passionate young man falls in love with a rich young woman and gives her a sense of
freedom. They soon are separated by their social differences. Starring Gena Rowlands, James
Garner, and Rachel McAdams. Rated PG-13, 123 min. In honor of Valentine's Day, chocolate will be
served! Please sign up through the Simsbury Senior Center, 860-658-3273 by Feb. 10.
Friday, February 12
11:45 AM-12:45 PM
Outside of Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Free Blood Pressure Screening
Receive a free blood pressure screening from the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurse Association. Held
at Simsbury Public Library outside of the Program Room on the Lower Level on the 4th Friday of
every month. In addition, weekly screenings are offered every Wednesday 11:45-2:15 at Eno
Memorial Hall.
Friday, February 12 and 26
10:30-11:30 AM
Simsbury Public Library Barnes Room
Sit & Stitch Needlework Group
Bring a project to work on and share ideas while you enjoy the company of other crafters. Held the
2nd and 4th Friday of the month. Drop in.
The Library will be closed on Monday, February 15 for Presidents’ Day
Tuesday, February 16
1:00-2:00 PM
Eno Memorial Hall Auditorium, 754 Hopmeadow St.
Line Dance for Fun: A Class for All Ages
Line Dance is fun, great exercise and a wonderful group activity! It is no wonder it has become a
popular form of dance today. No experience or partner are necessary for these classes, introducing
you to such popular dances as the Cha-Cha Slide, Lindi-Shuffle, Cupid Shuffle and more! Styles
covered will vary, from party to country. If you can’t attend all the classes, no problem! Just come
when you are available. Kick your heels up and join the fun! Please consider leaving sneakers at
home.....leather sole shoes or boots are highly recommended.
Presenter Sharyn Farrell has been teaching Ballroom, Swing and Line Dance to all ages and abilities
for over 15 years. She has been professionally trained in traditional dance, line dance, and several
forms of yoga. These disciplines all help her to communicate the joy of movement in a personalized
and powerful way. Her teaching style is light-hearted, clear, and playful for anyone who wants to
experience and share with others more of who they are!
These lessons, sponsored by the Simsbury Public Library and the Simsbury Senior Center, will be
held at Eno Memorial Hall Auditorium at 754 Hopmeadow St. in Simsbury on Tuesday, February 16,
March 8 and March 22, 2016 from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. This is a free family event - School age children,
teens, and adults of all ages are welcome! Register through the Senior Center at 860-658-3273. If
you are unable to register, just drop in!
Friday, February 19
1:00-3:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Friday Flicks – Mr. Holmes (2015)
Drama, Mystery
An aged, retired Sherlock Holmes deals with early dementia, as he tries to remember his final case
and a woman, the memory of whom still haunts him. He also befriends a fan, the young son of his
housekeeper, who wants him to work again. Starring Ian McKellen, Laura Linney, and Hiroyuki
Sanada. Rated PG, 104 min.
Friday, February 19
8:00-9:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Friends Coffeehouse: Donna Martin – Folk Singer/Songwriter
Although the assignment of the acoustic/folk genre best categorizes Donna Martin's music, she pulls
inspiration from a broad musical palette. Her childhood was richly laced with Canadian roots
music but the start of her professional career began with her work in a variety of rhythm and blues
bands. Her move to country music in the late 80’s placed her center stage in the highly popular New
England band Borderline. There she toured the northeast region and parts of Canada sharing the
stage with the likes of Charlie Daniels, Nashville road legend Dick Curless and opening for Alabama.
She has also played with Bonnie Raitt and Sarah McLachlan. An increasing fascination with the
lyrical depth and emotional immediacy of singer songwriter music brought her to the acoustic world.
Her six recordings of original work have brought awards and accolades. In addition to writing and
performing, Donna is also a studio engineer and educator.
Saturday, February 20 (rescheduled from January 23)
2:00-3:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
You Wrote a Book, Now What? with Jan Kardys
Gain an insider's view of book publishing at this program with literary agent and Chairman of Unicorn
Writers' Conference, Jan L. Kardys. Jan will share her 40 years of experience on such topics as
developing a concept, writing a manuscript, editing, finding a literary agent, negotiating a publishing
agreement, the various departments within a publishing companies, self-publishing vs. traditional
book publishing, subsidiary rights, marketing, utilizing the most cutting-edge technologies and social
media services to increase visibility to literary agents, publishers and readers alike. Han L. Kardys’
diverse career includes executive positions at ten of the major NYC book publishers. Jan worked for
Google for three years where she added Internet sales and marketing to her expertise. Registration is
suggested at 860-658-7663 x2200 or www.simsburylibrary.info (click on calendar). Free and open to
all.
Saturday, February 20 or Wednesday, February 24
10:00-11:30 AM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room 2
Life Reimagined: Your Guide to What’s Next
AARP CT has been invited to host a Life Reimagined session for those exploring their 'What’s Next”
in life. The AARP CT Life Reimagined guide team is trained to offer you a program filled with
reflection, discussion and a guide to taking action. The team will be equipped with tools/materials for
you to explore your 'What’s Next”, whatever that may be for you individually. You may choose a
session on February 20 or 24, and follow-up sessions on topics of interest will be scheduled with
participants who wish to continue. No matter what your age is or where you are going, Life
Reimagined points you in the right direction, with small, simple steps that lead to exciting new
possibilities in your work, relationships and overall well-being. Let AARP lead you in this 90 minute
checkup session. Are you ready? For more information, visit www.lifereimagined.org.
Registration is suggested at 860-658-7663 x2200 or www.simsburylibrary.info. Free and open to all.
Tuesday, February 23 and Thursday, February 25
6:00-8:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Technology Learning Center
Getting Started with WordPress – 2 Part Class
Are you interested in learning how to use WordPress to create a personal or business website? This
two-part hands-on course on February 23 and 25 will demonstrate installing WordPress, installing
plugins, selecting and customizing a theme, and adding content. This is a great opportunity to learn
WordPress from a professional website designer and business consultant. Elizabeth DellaSelva,
owner of LizMSolutions (www.lizmsolutions.com), specializes in helping businesses create and
maintain their complete web presence, from websites to social media to business branding. Space is
limited; pre-registration is required. Demand for this class is high, so we cannot hold seats for late
arrivals. Registration is for both sessions.
Thursday, February 25
7:00-8:30 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Robert F. Kennedy and the Shaping of Civil Rights, 1960-1964 with Professor Philip A. Goduti,
Jr.
Quinnipiac University Adjunct Assistant Professor of History Philip A. Goduti, Jr. will discuss Robert F.
Kennedy’s part in shaping civil rights during the period 1960-1964. “Bobby Kennedy is a compelling
figure in U.S. history who was somewhat pushed to the sidelines after his brother’s assassination,”
according to Goduti. “The combined efforts of the Kennedy brothers and civil rights leaders paved the
way for future civil rights legislation by changing the atmosphere in the nation to one of acceptance
and opportunity for African Americans and other minority groups. The election of 1960 set the
Kennedys, [Martin Luther] King, and [John] Lewis, among others, down a path to evoking that change
on the national stage.” In addition to his position at Quinnipiac University, Philip A. Goduti, Jr. teaches
U.S. History at Somers High School. He is the author of 2 books. Registration is requested at 860658-7663 x2200 or www.simsburylibrary.info. Free and open to all.
Friday, February 26
1:00-3:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Friday Flicks – Furious 7 (2015)
Action, Crime, Thriller
Deckard Shaw seeks revenge against Dominic Toretto and his family for his comatose brother.
Starring Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, and Dwayne Johnson. Rated PG-13, 137 min.
Sunday, February 28
2:00-3:00 PM
Simsbury Public Library Program Room
Simsbury Land Trust Program – Connecticut Curiosities
SLT Trustee Joan Allen talks about Connecticut Curiosities. Whether found beneath the soil or
soaring in the air, all kinds of living organisms found in Connecticut have special characteristics
allowing them to survive in Southern New England. From strange looking trees and Connecticut’s
only lizard to recent invasive species, explore a menagerie of Connecticut’s unique and sometimes
rare living things and their odd characteristics. For more information, call the Simsbury Land Trust 860-651-8773