Come join us for a FREE COMMUNITY YOGA class at Charym in Litchfield every Monday at 5pm. This class is for both the young, and not so young, designed to help you release aches and pains while building strength and flexibility. Whether you're new to yoga or looking for a gentle practice, this class offers a sequence of basic postures that stretch and strengthen the body. The flow is moderately paced, allowing you to move with ease while focusing on proper alignment and mindfulness. Each posture is taught with an emphasis on safety and awareness, helping you feel more grounded, centered, and stronger with each class. Come as you are and experience the benefits of yoga in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Live, In-Person & on Zoom:

Join Nancy Schuler in this exercise class for senior women. You can attend the class in person, here at the OWL, or online in the privacy of your home. The class features stretching and exercises that can be done in a chair or standing, and lifting of 1 or 2 lb. weights. All exercises are gentle and easy to understand. Exercise has been proven to help one's cognitive abilities, blood pressure, insomnia, digestive issues, depression, strength and independence. The Alzheimer's, Diabetes and Heart Associations all recommend exercise for healthy ageing.

No prior experience is necessary. Bring in a set of light weights for this class - 1 to 2 lbs.

NEW: Baby Story Time

Tuesdays in April at 10:30 AM

Perfect for 0 - 12 months, but fun for everyone!

Meet us in the Children’s Room for Baby Time! This calm, cozy program is designed for pre-walkers who aren't quite ready for the high energy of Rhyme Time. We will focus on nursery rhymes, lullabies, and bonding with your baby.

Learn about the journey of The 7 Pillars of wisdom and how this insight can benefit you in your daily life. Explore Hindu Vedic Hymns, Chinese Ethics and Mysticism, and Noble Truth, Hebrew Tanakh, Christian Prophecy, Koranic , Astrophysicism.

For more than 60 years, Leonardo has been a teacher in Secondary Schools, Colleges, in Adult Faith and Adult Learner Communities. He has been teaching Literature, Latin, Italian, History, Music, Theology, Drama/

Theater, Philosophy.

* Pre-registration required.

Tuesdays April 15 - April 29, 2025

Every other Tuesday

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: The Litchfield History Museum (7 South Street)

FREE

Registration not required

Join us for a bi-weekly knitting social meetup at the Litchfield Historical Society, where you can meet other knitters, get your questions answered about tricky patterns, and expand your knowledge. No experience is necessary, just a desire to learn to knit! Bring a project to work on and enjoy the company of your fellow crafters. It's a great place to roundtable your ideas and workshop any hiccups you might be encountering in your project.

Hosted by Alexandra Herst, a local knitting & crafting enthusiast, is a deep believer in the capability of anyone to master the complexities of knitting, she takes the approach of empowering beginners through education to further their skills and encourage their creativity!  

Join local historical costuming enthusiast Abigail Yanaway to...

• Ask questions about 18th century sewing Access resources related to 18th century sewing
• Get help with your own 18th century projects
• Meet other people interested in historical sewing
• Join other historical sewing enthusiasts to work on projects together

Join the Housatonic Valley Association for a Dine Out for a Cause fundraiser, hosted by Da Capo of Litchfield! A portion of the proceeds from Da Capo's hearty Italian dishes sold that evening will support HVA's conservation work in the Housatonic Valley and beyond.

The only conservation organization dedicated to the entire tri-state Housatonic Watershed, the Housatonic Valley Association acts to protect the natural character and environmental health of the region, from the Berkshires to Long Island Sound, through restoration projects, land protection, and educational programs.

Live, In-Person:

In partnership with the Litchfield PTO and The Litchfield Prevention Council, OWL is pleased to continue our ongoing series pertaining to screen use by our youth. This event is open to our entire community. Come and learn the latest research as well as what we can do to ensure play-based childhood in our community.

Presented by Kristen Giordano

Are you ready to break free from stress and cultivate a deeper sense of peace and joy? Through guided experiences, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how your mind works, uncover the subconscious patterns that drive stress, and learn practical self-hypnosis techniques to enhance gratitude, positivity and happiness. Whether you’re looking to find more calm, improve focus, enhance spiritual attunement or let go of self-sabotaging behaviors, this workshop will empower you to harness the power of your mind and step into a more joyful, intentional way of living.

Lunch is included.

Rhyme Time & Playgroup

Wednesdays in April at 10:30 AM

Perfect for 18 - 36 months, but fun for everyone!

Lots of rhymes, a sprinkling of songs, and one or two shared board books round out this library program that is perfect for little ones who need to get those wiggles out. Stay to PLAY! After the rhymes, stay for some unstructured play time with other kiddos.

Bus Trip to Mohegan Sun

Thursdays in May at 10:30 AM

Perfect for 3 - 5 year olds, but fun for everyone!

Join Mrs. Tricia for a classic library storytime - books, songs, bubbles, and more! Come for early literary skills, social connections, and fun! We will focus on one special picture book author each week.

Presented by Br. Mark D’Alessio

Three Thursdays: May 1, 8, 15 • 6:30PM to 8:00PM • via Zoom

Throughout history, mystics have offered us a map to the depths of the soul, a way of encountering the Divine within and beyond. Their wisdom is not reserved for a chosen few – it’s an invitation for all who long to live with greater depth, presence, and connection with the sacred.

Join Br. Mark for an on-line retreat that will support you to explore four ancient, traditional mystical paths — contemplative stillness, the via positiva of awe and wonder, the via negativa of letting go, and the via creativa of divine expression — each offering a way to encounter God within and our truest self with presence, stillness, and deeper awareness. 

Through silence and reflection, poetry, art, and sacred texts, movement and nature, we will enter into the wisdom of mystics like Julian of Norwich, Meister Eckhart, Teresa of Avila, Hildegard de Bingen, Rainer Maria Rilke, Teilhard de Chardin, Thomas Merton, and contemporary mystics Thich Nhat Hanh, Thea Bowman, Ilia Delio and Richard Rohr. 

Each Thursday evening, we will explore how their insights can guide us toward a life of greater presence, authenticity, and communion with the Sacred. Other retreat highlights will include guided reflections and teachings on the four mystical paths and the wisdom from eastern and western mystics; contemplative practices such as visio divina, centering prayer and breathwork; eco-spirituality as a mystical practice; sacred writing, creative expression, and journaling exercises; and, shared community conversation and personal integration time. 

Whether you’re just beginning to explore the mystical path or have walked it for many years, Br. Mark invites you to join us for this experiential opportunity to deepen your relationship with Divine Mystery, your inner self, and the outer world. Come as you are ready to listen, ready to wonder, ready to journey into the heart of Being. All are welcome. 

Online via ZOOM

Author of Slither: How Nature's Most Maligned Creatures Illuminate Our World

In-Person & on Zoom:

“Stephen Hall is not just a terrific science writer, he’s a terrific writer, period.” 

- Michael Pollan

Join us as we explore with author Stephen Hall his spellbinding scientific and cultural study of snakes, the fascination and fear they inspire, and how surprising new science is indelibly changing our perception of these stunning and frightening creatures.

For millennia, depictions of snakes as alternatively beautiful and menacing creatures have appeared in religious texts, mythology, poetry, and beyond. But where there is hatred and fear, there is also fascination and reverence. How is it that creatures so despised and sinister, so foreign of movement and ostensibly devoid of sociality and emotion, have fired the imaginations of poets, prophets, and painters across time and cultures? 

Stephen S. Hall has been reporting and writing about the intersection of science and society for more than 40 years. In addition to numerous cover stories in the New York Times Magazine, where he also served as a Story Editor and Contributing Writer, his work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic Monthly, National Geographic, New York Magazine, Wired, Science, Nature, Scientific American, Discover, The Sciences, Hip-pocrates, Smithsonian, and more. He is also the author of six critically acclaimed non-fiction books about contemporary science. He currently serves as an adjunct professor of journalism at New York University, and previously taught graduate seminars in science writing and explanatory journalism at Columbia University. 

Registration required only to attend in-person.

Live, In-Person & on Zoom:

Mark Scarbrough returns to OWL this Spring; leading us through 8 weeks of some of his favorite Flannery O’Connor works.

Flannery O'Connor is considered one of America's greatest fiction writers and her writing often reflects her Catholic faith, and frequently examined questions of morality and ethics. When she died in August of 1964, The New York Times called her “one of the nation’s most promising writers.” 

O’Connor is now as canonical as Faulkner and Welty. More than a great writer, she’s a cultural figure: a funny lady in a straw hat, puttering among peacocks, on crutches she likened to “flying buttresses.”

Discussion Schedule:

March 14: A Good Man is Hard to Find; A Circle of Fire; and Good Country People

March 21: The Artificial N----r and The Displaced Person

March 28: Wise Blood: chapters 1 - 7

April 4: Wise Blood: chapters 8 - 14

April 18: The Violent Bear It Away: chapters 1 - 5

April 25: The Violent Bear It Away: chapters 6 - 12

May 2: Greenleaf; The Enduring Chill; and The Comforts of Home

May 9: Everything That Rises Must Converge; The Lame Shall Enter First; and Revelation

MARK SCARBROUGH is a former English Professor and author who teaches seminars on Virginia Woolf, William Faulkner and Toni Morrison. He also hosts three literary podcasts.

The library will have copies of Flannery O'Connor's works to borrow and titles are also available to download as e-books or e-audios to OWL library card holders.

Registration required for in-person attendance.

the ticking tent is the original brocantes-style shopping market. featuring over 60 curated artisans, antiques dealers, vintage jewelry & boutique brands for the home and more. at t.t.t. we believe in the art of discovery & the finest craftsmanship. vetted by its founders christina juarez and benjamin reynaert, the ticking tent is bursting with unique, beloved and sought after treasures from the most talented artisans and bespoke brands from across the globe.

On this World Labyrinth Day, join Marcie Swift to immerse yourself in her powerfully healing harp notes, guided imagery, and enchanting story-telling. Walk in our beautiful labyrinth to the harp’s healing vibrations, quiet your mind, recover your balance, and release worry and pain. Allow Marcie’s exquisite notes to fill you with the wonder and delight of the Divine’s embrace.

Lunch is included.

Date: Saturday, May 3

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Location: The Litchfield History Museum

Cost: Free for Members, $10 for non-Members

Registration Requested

Join us Saturday, May 3 at 10:00 am for a walking tour exploring Connecticut's complicated history with slavery through the life of William Grimes, a man who escaped from slavery in Georgia and wrote his autobiography in Litchfield in 1825.

Walking tours each last about 1 hour. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water. Free for members and $10 non-members.

This tour is a part of our series "Think What I Have Felt: Commemorating the 200th Anniversary of Life of William Grimes, the Runaway Slave".  

These events are generously presented through a combination of grants, sponsorship, and in-kind donations. The Litchfield Historical Society would like to give a special thanks to Connecticut Humanities Council, Teno A. West of West Group Law PLLC, Belden House, Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP, Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, and Bantam Cinema & Arts Center.

Saturdays in May t 10:30 AM

All Ages Welcome!

Saturday Storytime is BACK! Come to OWL for an all ages storytime in the children's room every Saturday at 10:30 then stay to play. In addition to our puppet theater, wooden blocks, and train set, and dollhouse! We also have an ongoing Scavenger Hunt with fun prizes for winners as well as a special weekly craft for older children. And most importantly come in to browse our collection of print books, Nutmeg nominees, and Wonderbooks!

Date: Saturday, May 3

Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: The Old Firehouse (40 West Street)

Cost: Free for All

Registration Requested - Space is Limited

The Litchfield Historical Society is proud to present a weekend of public programs to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the publication of Life of William Grimes, the Runaway Slave.

Join us on Saturday, May 3 at 3:00pm at the old Litchfield Firehouse (40 West Street), for a dramatic reading of excerpts from Grimes’s narrative with a panel discussion to contextualize his words and experiences. Connecticut Storyteller, Andre Keitt will perform passages from Grimes’s narrative. The expert panel will feature Grimes descendent and leading authority, Regina Mason; prominent scholar of the African American slave narrative and Professor Emeritus at UNC, William Leake Andrews; and Professor of American Studies at the University of Buffalo, Kari Winter. Michael Morand Director of Community Engagement for Yale's Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library will moderate.  

These events are generously presented through a combination of grants, sponsorship, and in-kind donations. The Litchfield Historical Society would like to give a special thanks to Connecticut Humanities Council, Teno A. West of West Group Law PLLC, Belden House, Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP, Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, and Bantam Cinema & Arts Center.

Step right up to our delightful BLT - Bagels. Lox. Tefillin. event! Join us on Sundays from 10:00 to 10:45 AM, running from July 4th to August 25th, for a heartwarming experience.

Wrap Tefillin, recite a prayer, and relish in the scrumptious bagels, lox cream cheese, paired perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. It's more than just a meal; it's a chance to truly connect, to embrace your Jewish traditions, and simply enjoy each other's company. Don't worry if you don't have your own Tefillin - we've got you covered with our guidance and equipment.

No prior knowledge required - just bring yourself and an open heart. This event is family-friendly, so bring along the little ones for a meaningful and delicious experience. Come hungry, leave happy - we'll take care of the rest!

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through time? Introducing the Chabad of Northwest CT JLI Course: Colorful Profiles, where we will dive into the lives of twelve remarkable characters who shaped Jewish history in ways you never imagined! Over the course of four enlightening weeks, you'll meet a tapestry of personalities from courageous converts to wise royal advisors, from daring captives to inspiring philanthropists. Each story is a vibrant thread in the rich fabric of our heritage, offering you a kaleidoscope of experiences that will leave you captivated and craving more.

Discover the sacrifices that paved the way for future generations, the adventures that defied the odds, and the achievements that illuminate our collective past. This course is not just a lesson in history; its a celebration of resilience, identity, and the colorful spectrum of Jewish life. Don't miss out on this chance to enrich your understanding and appreciation of our peoples legacy come join us and let the stories unfold! After all, history is best told through the vivid colors of its characters!

Classes meet in-person on four Sunday mornings at Chabad Lubavitch Of Northwest CT. 

RSVP: chabadNW.org/JLI (zoom option available)

Date: Sunday, May 4

Time: 11:00 a.m.

Location: Bantam Cinema and Arts Center (115 Bantam Lake Road)

Cost: $35 per person

Registration Requested - Space is Limited

The Litchfield Historical Society is proud to present a weekend of public programs to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the publication of Life of William Grimes, the Runaway Slave.

On Sunday, May 4 at 11:00am, the Society is thrilled to partner with the Bantam Cinema & Arts Center (115 Bantam Lake Road) to screen the documentary Gina’s Journey: The Search for William Grimes. The film conveys Regina Mason’s long road to uncover Grimes’s past, intertwining the story of his incredible struggle to free himself from slavery. The screening will be followed by a discussion with producer Regina Mason and director Sean Durant.

These events are generously presented through a combination of grants, sponsorship, and in-kind donations. The Litchfield Historical Society would like to give a special thanks to Connecticut Humanities Council, Teno A. West of West Group Law PLLC, Belden House, Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP, Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, and Bantam Cinema & Arts Center.

Join us for Duck Day at Ripley!

A fun-filled, educational day for all ages featuring:

• Live raptor show by Skyhunters in Flight (2 PM)
• Reptile programs by Riverside Reptiles (11:30 AM & 1 PM)
• Rubber Duck Derby Race (12 PM)
• Face painting & hands-on activities
• Conservation games & educational exhibits
• Nature-inspired vendors
• Explore our aviaries & endangered waterfowl
• ...and so much more!

$10 per person | Kids 12 & under + Members FREE

Celebrate nature, conservation, and community with us

* Pre-registration required by Friday, May 2.

¡Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style!

Join us for an unforgettable Cinco de Mayo fiesta filled with festive flavors and lively music! The 5-piece Mariachi band will keep the celebration alive with classic tunes and spirited performances that’ll have you dancing and singing along. Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, colorful décor, and a party atmosphere like no other. This is one event you won’t want to miss. ¡Vamos a celebrar!

Come join us for a FREE COMMUNITY YOGA class at Charym in Litchfield every Monday at 5pm. This class is for both the young, and not so young, designed to help you release aches and pains while building strength and flexibility. Whether you're new to yoga or looking for a gentle practice, this class offers a sequence of basic postures that stretch and strengthen the body. The flow is moderately paced, allowing you to move with ease while focusing on proper alignment and mindfulness. Each posture is taught with an emphasis on safety and awareness, helping you feel more grounded, centered, and stronger with each class. Come as you are and experience the benefits of yoga in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Tuesdays in May at 10:30 AM

Perfect for 0 - 12 months, but fun for everyone!

Meet us in the Children’s Room for Baby Time! This calm, cozy program is designed for pre-walkers who aren't quite ready for the high energy of Rhyme Time. We will focus on nursery rhymes, lullabies, and bonding with your baby.

Join local historical costuming enthusiast Abigail Yanaway to...

• Ask questions about 18th century sewing Access resources related to 18th century sewing
• Get help with your own 18th century projects
• Meet other people interested in historical sewing
• Join other historical sewing enthusiasts to work on projects together

Presented by Imam Gazmend Aga, Monsignor Joseph Donnelly and Rabbi Eric Polokoff 

Join Rabbi Eric Polokoff (Rabbi Eric), Monsignor Joe Donnelly (Father Joe), and Imam Gazmend Aga (Imam Gazi)—affectionately known as The Three Amigos—for a day of interfaith dialogue and spiritual exploration.

For years, these three faith leaders have engaged in meaningful conversations across Connecticut, fostering understanding between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Their discussions highlight the deep connections among their traditions and the shared values that unite them.

During this special retreat day, they will explore Faith as a Relationship with God, reflected in and lived through our relationships with others. Through engaging presentations and open dialogue, participants will gain insights into how these three faith traditions approach faith, connection, and community.

The retreat will also include a dedicated time for questions, allowing attendees to interact directly with The Three Amigos and deepen their understanding of interfaith connections.

Well known in the Waterbury region for their interfaith advocacy and engaging discussions at local religious gatherings and the Osher Adult Learning Center at UCONN Waterbury, The Three Amigos bring wisdom, warmth, and a spirit of friendship to their shared ministry.

Join us for a transformative day of learning, dialogue, and connection.

Lunch is included.