A collection of community programs and resources at NHFPL and beyond.
Ives
Fair Haven
Mitchell
Stetson
Wilson
NHFPL Updates
Summer Learning 2020!
June 13 - September 30

This summer the New Haven Free Library presents Imagine Your Story! This year, we’re offering our summer program virtually to encourage your reading and learning, but most of all so we can have fun together! Visit the website to learn how to earn points to win fun prizes and to register! Aprende a participar.

Virtual Summer Reading Program Schedule
*Please click on the event title to be redirected to your program over Zoom.
July

Friday, July 24, 3 PM

Tuesday, July 28, 11 AM

Tuesday, July 28, 2 PM

Tuesday, July 28, 5 PM
August

Saturday, August 1, 11 AM

Wednesday, August 5, 2 PM

Tuesday, August 11, 11 AM

Wednesday, August 19, 11 AM

Tuesday, August 25, 11 AM

Tuesday, August 25, 2 PM

Friday, August 28, 3 PM
NHFPL Curbside Pick-Up Service Expanded to Saturdays!

  • Curbside pick-up will be available Monday - Friday from 10 am – 1 pm by appointment at all NHFPL locations and Saturdays from 10 am – 4 pm by appointment at Ives Main Library. 
  • Each patron can request up to 10 books and 5 DVDs at a time. 
  • Requests will be kept for one week if not picked up as scheduled. 
  • As a reminder, all library materials currently checked out will be automatically renewed through July 31. All overdue fines will be waived through August 31.
  • Staff will not handle book returns. Please use the library book drop to return your materials.  
  • No donations are being accepted at this time.  
  • Returned materials will be quarantined for 4 days before being placed back in circulation and removed from your account.   

How to Request and Schedule Pick Up of Library Materials  
Step 1:  You can place holds in the following ways:
  • over the phone by calling your location
  • Fair Haven Library | (203) 946-8115
  • Ives Main Library | (203) 946-8135
  • Mitchell Library | (203) 946-8117
  • Stetson Library | (203) 946-8119
  • Wilson Library | (203) 946-2228
  • by email at refdesk@nhfpl.org
  • through live chat at nhfpl.org
  • log into your account, and place holds on the items you want to request

Step 2:  Library staff will call you once your holds are filled to schedule a pick-up time. If you cannot be reached by phone, we will send you an email to contact us.

Step 3:  Arrive at the library for your appointment, locate the curbside sign, and call the phone number on the sign to pick up your items.

Guidelines for Picking Up Library Materials  
  • Face masks must be worn at all times when picking up library materials 
  • Maintain social distancing staying at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people. 
  • There will be no access to the inside of the building; restrooms are not available.

Learn How to Place a Hold and Request a Movie Online!
Go to nhfpl.org and click the green "Tutorials!" tab on the far right side of the page. There you will find helpful how-to videos and instructions. Simply click on the video title and it will bring up your selected video.
Have a question for our library staff?

Use LiveChat on nhfpl.org Monday through Friday, 9 am-5 pm!

The New Haven Free Public Library is open online! Want to learn how to apply for a library card? Do you have questions about how to use one of our databases? Need help checking out an audiobook or ebook? Talk with a staff member live with the new chat feature on our website!
Library Updates

  • All library cards set to expire from January 1, 2019 through July 31, 2020 have been renewed.
  • All library materials currently checked out will be automatically renewed through July 31. All overdue fines will be waived until August 31.
  • Book drops are open 24/7! You may return items to book drops at all five library locations.
  • All in-person programs and meeting room reservations are cancelled until further notice.
Young Minds & Teen Programs & Resources
Looking in the Mirror with Ms. Mae
Friday, July 24, August 28 and September 25, 3 pm

All of us have dreams and ambitions that we build on. Let’s look at the mirror of life and look at what we see right now. No registration is necessary.

YA Book Bash! Book Club for Young Adult Book Lovers
Tuesday, July 28, 6:30-7:30 pm

A monthly Young Adult Book Club for Teens & Adults interested in sharing YA's hottest reads! Meet and discuss in this virtual program in the comfort of your own home. Book suggestions welcome!

This month we are reading Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi. Find it! This title is flying high on the bestseller lists, featuring dark magic and a strong female lead. This thrilling adventure is the start of a fantastic series and will soon hit the big screen with a film adaptation! Can't wait? Then join us to chat about this stunning debut.

Teen Mindfulness Series
Every Monday and Wednesday, 4-5 pm

Learn to live in the moment, tune into yourself and drop the labels.

Join a virtual chat and discussion with peers and leave your mats, fancy yoga pants, and all other pretensions at the door. There won't be any homework or pop quizzes. The only requirement is that you bring yourself and your awareness in this moment.

Watch Story Times from NHFPL Staff

Visit the NHFPL  website where you can now find digital story times with new books being posted daily. All of the story times are done by our Young Minds staff from the comfort of their homes. Stay tuned to see what else they read!
Find More on Our Calendar!

There is lots more happening with NHFPL for children, families and teens. Explore what's coming up on our calendar!
Adult Programs & Resources
Follow us on social media as we continue to highlight works by Black writers, artists, musicians, filmmakers, and more to help educate and heal us.
Send us Your Pandemic Stories!

Over the past four months, the Coronavirus pandemic has changed the world. But how has it changed your world? NHFPL wants to collect your experiences, to share now and with future generations of the greater New Haven community. We welcome all of your experiences, whether they are happy, painful, or surprising.

Here are some ideas to get you started:
  • Has anything happened to you as a result of the pandemic that you won't soon forget?
  • Have there been any silver linings as a result of the pandemic for you?
  • How has your life changed as a result of COVID-19?
Animation Celebration! A Film Discussion Series
A movie discussion club focusing on animated movies from around the world. Watch the film for free with your library card on Kanopy, then bring your thoughts and opinions to our Zoom meeting!

Short Films by Yuri Norstein
Monday, August 10, 7pm

Kirikou and the Sorceress
Monday, August 31, 7pm
Joint Book Chat
Tuesday, August 11, 6:30-7:30 pm

Join patrons of NHFPL and Prospect Public Library to discuss George Orwell's novel, 1984.

Summer at 7: An American Experience Virtual Series
Join us for this author talk series highlighting a variety of American experiences.
Author Talk with Libby Copeland | The Lost Family:
How DNA Testing Is Upending Who We Are
Wednesday, August 12, 7-8 pm

Join journalist Libby Copeland for a discussion of her new book. The Lost Family is a modern genetic detective story that explores the culture of genealogy buffs, the science of DNA, and the business of companies like Ancestry and 23andMe, all while tracing the story of one woman and her unusual results. Learn more about the book and it's author.

Author Talk with Professor Gerald Meyer | The Unity of the People: Studies in Italian American Radicalism
Wednesday, August 26, 7-8:30 pm

Gerald Meyer Ph.D. taught history for many years at Hostos Community College of the City University of New York and authored the biography Vito Marcantonio: Radical Politician. He also co-edited the book The Lost World of Italian-American Radicalism.

Author Talk with Dr. Gerald Horne | Paul Robeson: The Artist as Revolutionary
Wednesday, September 9, 7-8:30 pm
Dr. Horne holds the Moores Professorship of History and African American Studies. His research has addressed issues of racism in a variety of relations involving labor, politics, civil rights, international relations and war. He has also written extensively about the film industry. Dr. Horne received his Ph.D. in history from Columbia University and his J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley and his B.A. from Princeton University.

Microsoft Virtual Classes
Wednesdays, 12-1:30 pm

These are 90-minute classes in Microsoft Word and Excel. They are introductory sessions for getting you started with these key programs! Visit our calendar to sign up for a specific class date.
Online English Conversation Class
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-7:30 pm

NHFPL, in cooperation with New Haven Adult Education and Literacy Volunteers of Greater New Haven is offering online English conversation instruction. Beginner to advanced - all are welcome. Visit our calendar to sign up for a specific class date.
Virtual Meditation
In Partnership with Elm Community Insight

Monday through Friday, 7:30-8:30 am
This time will include space allowed for discussion of meditation practice. Use this link to join at the time of the session.

Saturday Morning Sangha and Book Group
Saturdays, 10:30 am-12 pm
These sessions will include a brief talk on improving skills, and an open discussion.
Enjoy Ives Squared at Home!
Open Call for Applications for Ives Squared Entrepreneur-in-Residence and Creative-in-Residence
Submission Deadline: August 20, 2020

The New Haven Free Public Library seeks applications for two in-residence opportunities from October 2020 - June 2021:

Entrepreneur-In-Residence (EIR) The EIR embodies the spirit of innovation and the transference of practical information. The EIR might share their skills by initiating workshops and classes; conducting one-on-one sessions; and creating an active community of inquisitive professionals.

Creative-In-Residence (CIR) The CIR helps connect library users to local creatives, artists and makers with the New Haven community. The CIR will bring the Ives Squared Tinker Lab makerspace to life -- sharing their skills and knowledge by initiating workshops and classes; exploring ideas in a public context; and creating a collective project.

EIR Office Hours – Virtual Meetings
Tuesdays, 2-4 pm​
Thursdays, 2-4 pm​ 
Looking to build or grow your business? Make an appointment with our Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Samantha Williams, for one-on-one advice. Make an appointment .

EIR Programs:

Gaining a Productive, Happy and Healthy Workforce with Insurance Options
Tuesday, August 4, 11-12 pm
Join Chris Pisani, Health Insurance Advisor with BSP Financial and learn strategies employers can implement to create a happier and healthier team through cost-effective health insurance options. With a variety of group health insurance tools, you can identify the program that works best for your company.

Business Checkup: Understand Your Worth in the Age of a Pandemic
Tuesday, August 11, 12-1:30 pm
This 90 minute discussion will cover the steps needed to check up on your individual and business brands to remain relevant in the aftermath of a pandemic.

Brand Strategy Essentials
Tuesday, August 25, 2-3 pm
Nancy Ruzow, Founder and Principal Designer, Ruzow Graphics, Inc. Let’s clear up some widespread confusion: A brand and a logo are not the same! This presentation will encompass the essentials of a brand, including logos, color, taglines, and more. What brands work, and what brands fail. Also, learn what you can do to build a strong brand.
Artrepreneur Series Goes Virtual!
Join us for a conversation with prominent New Haven artists as they discuss the opportunities and challenges unique to being an artist and an entrepreneur. This series is facilitated by local artist and entrepreneur, Eric Rey. Click the links below for the Zoom information.

Finn Henry
August 7, 3:30 pm

Dooley-O
August 19, 1 pm

Sharece Sellem
September 9, 2 pm
Collab Virtual Office Hours – Virtual Meetings

Collab is a small business, nonprofit, and for-profit support program committed to serving Connecticut entrepreneurs. Get one-on-one advice about obtaining capital, mentorship, and other resources for entrepreneurs based in Connecticut. For more information about Collab, visit  collabnewhaven.org .

Take and Make Project Kits
Request and Pick Up Your Kit from Monday, August 3 to Friday, August 7

Learn a new creative skill! We’re offering a kit with everything you need to complete a project. The kit includes all the supplies, plus a link to an instructional video on Creativebug, which is free and accessible with your library card.

Our first kit features an easy version of Japanese side-sewn book binding, which shows you how to bind regular paper into a sturdy and charming little book using only yarn. Each kit has enough supplies to make two books.

To schedule an appointment to pick up a kit, please call Ives Squared at (203) 946-8130 x140. There are a limited number of kits available, and they will be given out on a first come, first served basis, with a limit of two kits per family.
Computer Programming Office Hours
Mondays, 6:30-8:30 pm
Meet virtually with full-stack developer Page Swanson to consult on any questions you may have about computer programming. Make an appointment.

Learn to Code
Every Other Tuesday, 6:30-7:30 pm
August 4 Register
August 18 Register
September 1 Register

Join full-stack developer Page Swanson to learn the basics of computer programming. This program will be held virtually via Zoom.

Japanese Side-sewn Book Binding
Friday, August 7, 2-3 pm

Join us for a virtual workshop where we’ll watch a lesson on Creativebug on how to make Japanese side-sewn books. If you pick up one of our Take and Make kits, you’ll have everything you need to follow along with the project. Or if you’d like to provide your own supplies, the lesson on Creativebug has a list of all the tools and supplies you’ll need for the project.
Intro to Audio Editing with Audacity

Make a one-on-one appointment to learn the basic skills of editing sound with Audacity, an audio editing software. Audacity is a free, open source, "Digital Audio Workstation" with an intuitive interface and large community of users worldwide. It is a great program for learning basic audio production skills and concepts.

To arrange a time for instruction, email Austin at alarkin@nhfpl.org
Free or Low Cost Adobe Alternatives

With Ives Squared closed it means we can't offer access to much of our creative software, but never fear we came up with this helpful list of free or low cost alternatives you can use at home! Check them out
Build Your Creative and Technical Skills from Home with Lynda.com. Now Available With Your Library Card!

All levels of training in software, creative and business skills are available through Lynda.com, free with your NHFPL library card. Go at your own pace, follow a curriculum and learn new skills! Check out this curated list of maker courses put together by one of our Ives Squared librarians. It includes learning paths for topics like animation, audio and music production, digital design and more!
Create Amazing Projects Designed by Experts on Creativebug

You can access over a thousand award-winning craft video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. From drawing and illustration to jewelry making, knitting to home décor (and everything in between), patrons of all ages and skill levels will find inspiration.   Log in with your library card
Find More on Our Calendar!

There is lots more happening with NHFPL for adults. Explore what's coming up on our calendar!
Collection Connection
Choose from our ever-growing collection of downloadable audiobooks and ebooks with Overdrive! Borrow them anytime, anywhere and enjoy them across all your mobile devices.
Check out our new titles on Overdrive!

Nonfiction:
Daughter of the Boycott: Carrying on a Montgomery Family's Civil Rights Legacy by Karen Gray Houston Find it!
The Hardest Job in the World: The American Presidency by John Dickerson Find it!
Exercise of Power: American Failures, Successes, and a New Path Forward in the Post-Cold War World by Robert M. Gates Find it!
Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law by Haben Girma Find it!
What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Blacker: A Memoir in Essays by Damon Young Find it!

Fiction
The Party Upstairs by Lee Conell Find it!
Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell Find it!
Members Only by Sameer Pandya Find it!
Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan Find it!
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia Find it!
July is World Watercolor Month

Creativebug
Playing with Watercolor with Lindsay Stripling
Beginning Watercolor with Yao Cheng
Watercolor FAQs with Yao Cheng
Botanical Watercolor Illustration with Jess Park

Hoopla
Creative Watercolor: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners-Create with Paints, Inks, Markers, Glitter, and More! by Ana Victoria Calderon Find it!
Watercolor: Paintings of Contemporary Artists by Sujean Rim & Leslie Dutcher Find it!
Your Year in Art: Watercolor by Kristin Van Leuven Find it!

Freading
Watercolor Botanicals by Nikki Strange Find it!
Painting Watercolors on Location by Tom Hill Find it!
Complete Guide to Watercolor Painting by Edgar A. Whitney Find it!
Find Your Next Favorite with NHFPL Reviews!

Listen to reviews from our library staff to help choose your next book, movie and more on our new NHFPL Reviews page! There are new selections added every week spanning multiple genres and ages. You are sure to find something for everyone.
Community Programs & Resources
City of New Haven Announces 2020 Democracy School!
Thursdays, September 10-October 22, 6-8 pm via Zoom

New Haven residence have the opportunity to learn more about the structures, services and leaders in the City through a series of public information sessions. Democracy School is open to any New Haven resident that is at least 18 years of age by the start of the first session, space will be limited to 20 students.   Learn more about the program and the topics it will be covering on the website .

If you have any questions, please contact Omena McCoy at (203) 946-5892 or  omccoy@newhavenct.gov .
COVID-19 Business Advising from Connecticut Small Business Development Center

The Connecticut Small Business Development Center is fully-staffed with experienced business advisors ready to help the state’s small businesses navigate these unprecedented times. CTSBDC is a no-cost resource for small business owners who are looking to access expert advice on a variety of topics.

Their areas of expertise, among others, includes:
• Loan and grant application process
• Disaster preparedness & recovery
• Financial analysis
• Digital marketing
• E-commerce

For more information on no-cost advising from the CTSBDC please sign up for business advising. Check out our upcoming webinars
Online Classes Available From Literacy Volunteers of Greater New Haven

"Transforming Lives Through Literacy"...That is the mission that inspires, and continues to guide, the free programs offered by Literacy Volunteers of Greater New Haven to any adult hoping to enhance their future through the power of reading and writing, despite uncertain times. They are currently offering free online classes in basic literacy and ESOL (English for students of other languages). If you want to volunteer to be a tutor please register online .

Adults can sign up now for FREE classes taught remotely:
For basic literacy classes in New Haven:
Laura Fawcett, (203) 776-5899 or laurafawcett@lvagnh.org

For ESOL classes in New Haven:
Erica Hoffman, (203) 285-2482 or ericahoffman@lvagnh@org
Free Online Career Resources Job Training Program with SkillUp CT

Governor Lamont announced the expansion of  SkillUp CT  for qualifying residents who have been unemployed during the COVID-19 pandemic, launching the CT Back to Work Initiative. Additionally, job-seekers can apply to open positions on three sites: CT Hires State Job Bank, National Labor Exchange (NLx), and Indeed Custom Portal for CT Jobseekers.

Residents who qualify can pursue online “job-training [courses] for in-demand skills,” by enrolling in the workforce training provider 180 Skills. Later this summer, students at CT state colleges and universities, along with current upskilling workers at manufacturing companies, will be able to access customized 180 Skills pathways. To find out more or enroll in the program click here.

Job-seekers can also enroll in Metrix a.k.a., the “SkillUp CT program,” an at-home learning program offers free online job training and access to 5,000 courses in information technology (IT), business analysis, customer service and project management, just to name a few. To find out more or enroll in the program click  here .
Apply to Join Collab's Growing Team!

Collab is currently hiring for two positions:
  • Venture Manager, Full-time: We’re seeking a dependable, culturally-responsive program manager with entrepreneurship experience to lead and coordinate Collab’s core programs that support a diverse, talented community of entrepreneurs. 
  • Community Fellows, Part-time/Contract: We’re seeking highly motivated and independent Community Fellows with excellent interpersonal skills to conduct outreach efforts, including 1-on-1 coaching for entrepreneurs, to expand Collab’s service reach in the city and region.

Don't Let Them Count You Out!
Complete the 2020 Census Today

The 2020 Census is now available to fill out online  or by phone: 844-330-2020. En español o por teléfono: 844-468-2020.

Participation in the 2020 Census remains critically important for access to health care and other resources in New Haven. The U.S. Census counts the country’s population and households. It determines voting districts and the number of congressional seats, and guides the distribution of more than $675 billion in federal funding every year. New Haven receives around $3,000 per person counted to support vital civic and community programs!

Be heard and spread the word.
Emergency Response Volunteers Needed

Contact Tracer
The City of New Haven is seeking Contact Tracers to support the New Haven Health Department to perform COVID-19 contact tracing. The aim of this will be to call every person diagnosed with COVID-19, gather their contacts, and proceed to call every contact. This is in tandem with the City’s efforts to increase testing, improve communication and implementation of isolation and quarantine. This will fortify efforts to control the pandemic in New Haven.  Read the full description and requirements.

COVID-19 Resources
Please visit these trusted sources for current information and updates.
City of New Haven COVID-19 Hub

Visit the City of New Haven COVID-19 website for the latest developments from City Hall, reliable local and global statistics, and guidance documents for community agencies on operations during this time .

On the website you will also find the New Haven School Meals Distribution Sites. Use their interactive map to see all meal distribution sites nearest to you and their open hours. Find locations near you here .
Yale New Haven Health Hotline

Yale New Haven Health has opened a call center for individuals
with questions about COVID-19. The number is 833-275-9644.
For more information, click here .
Sign up for State Alerts from the Governor

Governor Ned Lamont is calling for all Connecticut residents to sign up and get up-to-the-minute news on Coronavirus COVID-19 and other vital news for the state via your cell phone. Visit ctalert.gov .

Want more? Check out our Calendar !  Sign up for emails  here !