Library of the Chathams October 2023
Children’s Programs
Take Home Craft Statistics
Sunday, October 1; 9:00am – 10:00am
Storytime 9 to 24 months:
October 2, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, & 30
10:00am – 10:30am
Ages 2 to 3:
October 2, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, & 30
10:45am – 11:15am
Ages 3 1/2 to 5:
October 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30
11:30am – 12:00pm
Chess Group 1
Mondays: October 2, 9, 16; 4:00pm – 4:45pm
Benigno Room
Chess Expert Sean Finn will teach this class in person. Students will learn game strategy, basic checkmates, new tactical patterns, and the best questions to ask themselves when evaluating a position and creating a plan. Classes will include puzzle solving, game analysis and of course a chance to play.Registration required.
Chess Group 2
Mondays: October 2, 9, 16; 5:00pm – 5:45pm
Benigno Room
Group 2 is for players who can finish a game with checkmate. Suggested ages: 8 and up. Limit: 16 students.
Chess Group 3
Mondays: October 2, 9, 16; 6:00pm – 6:45pm
Benigno Room
Group 3 is for players who have previously taken Group 2 or other similar classes. Suggested ages: 8 & Up. Limit: 16 students.
Financial Literacy for the Future
Tuesday, October 3; 4:15pm – 5:00pm
Thursday, October 5, 4:15pm – 5:00pm
Lundt Room
Learn the value of money, ways to earn it, and various ways to save it. This is an informative, interactive two-part session for pre-teens to learn responsible money management. Classes will be taught by Madison High School student Ishan Mallik, who has studied financial literacy and held this class for other organizations previously. The earlier you know, the more your money will grow!
Writing Help with Audrey
Wednesday, October 4, & 18; 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Have a book report due? Need someone to proofread your paper? Don’t know how to write an intro? Audrey’s here to help! A junior at Oak Knoll and resident of Chatham, Audrey has taken creative writing courses at two universities and has a true passion for writing. Registration is encouraged but drop-ins are welcome.
Move & Groove with Miss Jolie
Thursday, October 5
10:00am – 10:30am or 10:45am – 11:15am
Lundt Room
For preschoolers and their caregivers. No registration required Come join Miss Jolie for Move & Groove! This class infuses learning and movement with music, stories, and lots of silliness! Miss Jolie brings a twist to classic children’s music in addition to engaging children with original interactive songs. Miss Jolie performs with her ukulele along with other musical instruments and props for the children
Children’s Book Club: Fantasy
Thursday, October 5, 12, 19, & 26, 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Quiet Study RoomIf you are interested in reading The Kingdom of Wrenly series and making some new friends, join the Children’s Book Club! This session we will be reading The Lost Stone. Over the course of the four meetings, we will read together, have discussions, and complete activities. Children will be provided with a copy of the book at the first meeting on October 5th.
Dungeons & Dragons Academy for Beginners
Thursday, October 5, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Benigno Room
Are you in Grades 3 to 12 and curious about D&D? D&D is a fantasy tabletop role-playing game where players create their own characters to play and embark upon imaginary adventures. Dungeons & Dragons is a great way for kids to socialize in person with no computers or electronics needed!A Dungeon Master, in our case Master Michele, serves as the game’s referee and storyteller. Together they solve dilemmas, engage in battles, and gather treasure and knowledge.Sign up for our D&D Academy and learn how to play from Master Michele in this four-session class! He will walk beginners through creating a character and explain how the game works.
Mandarin Storytime
Friday, October 6; 10:00am – 10:30am
Woman’s Club Room
Join the library for Mandarin Storytime! Local native speakers will create an immersive experience for your child through stories in Mandarin.All children are welcome!Drop in, no registration required.
Coloring Craze
Friday, October 6, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Children’s Room
Get ready to color! Coloring promotes mindfulness and is a great way for children (and adults!) to relieve stress. It is also a fun way to improve fine motor skills! Let your creativity shine and join us in the Children’s Room for an afternoon of coloring!Grades K & UpDrop in, no registration required.
Children’s Music Theory & Vocal Technique Workshop
Friday, October 6, 13, 4:00pm – 4:45pm
Lundt Room
This engaging four-week workshop, designed for beginners, will allow students to explore the fundamentals of music theory, learn about vocal technique, learn music notation, and even prepare for a mini-performance. With interactive activities, games, and a fun-filled learning environment, this workshop promises to ignite their passion for music and set them on a melodic journey of creativity.Children’s BingoMonday, October 9, 5:00pm – 6:00pmLundt RoomB-I-N-G-O and Bingo was his name-o! Join the library for a fun filled hour of Bingo. If you win a round you will have the opportunity to choose a prize from our treasure chest!Grades K-5
Yoga Storytime
Thursday, October 12, 10:00am – 10:30am, or 10:45am – 11:15am
Lundt Room
For preschoolers and their caregivers. No registration required Come join Miss Jenn for Yoga Storytime! With over 17 years of teaching experience with both children and adults, Jenn has established a program that combines the creativity of imagination and movement, along with breath work. Whether it may be barking in “downward-facing dog” or meowing in “cat” position, Jenn’s class always brings along some giggles and fun!
Indian Film Dance Workshop
Thursday, October 12, 19, & 26, 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Lundt Room
Anybody can dance!Come join us for a fun filled dance class inspired by Indian film music.Learn to recognize and dance on beat, rhythm, synchronization and gain confidence while having a fun colorful time.After 6 sessions, we will have a recital to showcase what we have learned. Please ensure that you are able to commit to all 6 classes and a recital day (October 26th).
Spanish Storytime with HudsonWay Immersion School
Friday, October 13; 10:00am – 10:30am
Lundt Room
Play and Learn in Mandarin or Spanish Led by native-speaking and experienced preschool teachers from HudsonWay Immersion School, these 100% Mandarin and Spanish immersion storytimes introduce you and your little one to the fun of learning a second language!Through stories, songs, movement, and games, HWIS instructors will provide the most effective environment to put your child on the path to bilingual development. No prior knowledge of either language is required.For children 18 months & up.Drop in, no registration required.
Read to Therapy Dogs
Wednesday, October 18; 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Children’s Room
For children in Grades K & UpHey kids! Come and read your favorite book to a therapy dog. Have fun while improving your reading skills! Parents – this program allows children to read aloud to a neutral listener. For many children, this gives them a chance to experience stress-free reading and to become motivated to read. All of the dogs and their handlers have been certified by The Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs.Registration required. Chatham Borough and Township residents only. Residents of other towns may register if space allows.
Music & Movement with Miss Susan
Thursday, October 19, 10:00am – 10:30am, or 10:45am – 11:15am
Lundt Room
For preschoolers and their caregivers. No registration requiredMiss Susan has been a teacher for over 30 years, many of those years as a local preschool music teacher. Miss Susan’s program is fun, energetic, filled with classic preschool and contemporary favorites.
Mandarin Storytime with HudsonWay Immersion School
Friday, October 20, 10:00am – 10:30am
Lundt Room
Play and Learn in Mandarin or Spanish Led by native-speaking and experienced preschool teachers from HudsonWay Immersion School, these 100% Mandarin and Spanish immersion storytimes introduce you and your little one to the fun of learning a second language!
Owl Pellet Exploration with Morris County Park Commission
Friday, October 20, 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Lundt Room
After an introduction to the amazing adaptations of New Jersey’s owls using feathers, taxidermy mounts, and other artifacts, dissect owl pellets to reconstruct the skeletons of their prey.
Children’s Fall Chess Tournament
Saturday, October 21, 10:00am – 3:00pm
Lundt Room
Unrated players: Kindergarten through 5th grade
Boogie Woogie Babies
Thursday, October 26, 10:00am – 10:30am, or 10:45am – 11:15am
Lundt Room
For preschoolers and their caregivers. No registration required Boogie Woogie Babies is a dance and movement program for babies and toddlers! It encourages adults to get up and be active with their little ones. Classes consist of singing songs, working on fine motor skills, and dancing for big and little people.
Halloween Craft
Monday, October 30, 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Lundt Room
Happy Halloween! Join the haunted library in a spooky craft the night before Halloween! Children will get to create a paper bag monster puppet and paint pumpkins. Halloween ParadeTuesday, October 31, 202310:00am – 12:00pmLundt RoomMeet in the Children’s Room and join the parade around the library grounds. After the parade, come in the library and be entertained by two Disney princesses! There will be time to take pictures with the princesses after the program.
Teen Programs
Dungeons & Dragons Club
Thursday, October 5, 12, 19, & 26, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Woman’s Club Room
Dungeons & Dragons is a fantasy tabletop role-playing game where players create their own characters to play and embark upon imaginary adventures. A Dungeon Master or DM serves as the game’s storyteller. The D&D Club is a great place to socialize in person with no computers or electronics needed!
Teen Video Game Club
Friday, October 6, 13, 20, & 27, 3:00pm – 5:45pm
Stop by to play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or Mario Kart for Nintendo Switch on the big screen! We have 8 Joy-Con controllers available.
Tasty Tuesdays Tween & Teen Cooking Program
Tuesday, October 10, & 24, 4:30pm – 5:15pm
Woman’s Club Room
Join our teen librarian for some fun cooking, baking, or decorating! This is a great time to practice cooking and baking, try it for the first time, or just make new friends. No experience necessary and recipes will be simple.
Teen Advisory Board (TAB) Meeting
Wednesday, October 25, 3:45pm – 4:45pm
Benigno Room
Join us for a Teen Advisory Board (TAB) meeting! At our meetings, you can develop new friendships and learn about how you can volunteer at the library. This will also be a time to provide new ideas and help our teen librarian with planning future programs. We will meet once per month and snacks will be provided. Attend any or all meetings.Tape-Resist Fall Canvas Painting for TeensThursday, October 26; 3:45pm – 5:15pmWoman’s Club RoomCome create a beautiful 9×12 fall birch tree painting with guidance from artist Lynn Schwartz. Using paint and tape on canvas, you can create your very own autumn scene with beautifully colored leaves.
Adult Programs
Bon Voyage: 200 Years of Luxury Travel
Sunday, October 1; 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Lundt Room
Pack your suitcases and let’s take a vacation! Hannah Gaston, Education Coordinator at Liberty Hall Museum, will be our guide as we recreate several trips and luxury vacations that the esteemed Livingston and Kean families of New Jersey took between 1780 and 1950. Assisted by clues and artifacts, notes in personal diaries, letters to family members, photographs, maps, and souvenirs – Hannah will bring to life 200 years of luxury travel like you’ve never seen! Bon voyage!
ESL Advanced Beginner
Monday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 10:00am – 11:00am
Online via Zoom
ESL Conversation Group
Monday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Quiet Study Room
ESL Intermediate+
Tuesday, October 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31, 9:45am – 10:45am
Online via Zoom
ESL Beginner
Wednesday, October 4, 11, 18, & 25, 10:00am – 11:00am
Online via Zoom
ESL Beginner In-Person
Wednesday, October 4, 11, 18, &25, 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Quiet Study Room
Cinema214 – Movie Night
Thursday, October 5, & 19, 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Lundt Room
Art Show with Sally Abbott Opening Reception
Sunday, October 8; 2:15pm – 4:00pm
Lundt Room
Since January of 2023, I have been participating in weekly walks in the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge with a group of birders and wildlife enthusiasts. I don’t qualify as a birder; but I am a nature lover. I photograph the vast beauty of the land, the light, the reflections, the sky… then I translate that imagery to my canvases for this series of paintings, “Sally Abbott: A Walk in the Swamp & More”.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Help Session
Monday, October 9; 10:00am – 12:00pm
Benigno Room
Join us for a Bring Your Own Device help session at the library! Do you need help adding new contacts to your phone, sending an email, or adding & using new apps on your device? Bring your own phone, laptop, or tablet to the library for help with learning the basics. We will provide individualized help based on your needs. Please register for this program here or by giving us a call at 973-635-0603. Drop-ins may be accepted if time permits.
Virtual Author Talk: Rick Steves
Tuesday, October 10; 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Join guidebook author and TV host Rick Steves as he shares the latest in smart European travel. In this entertaining, information-packed slideshow lecture, Rick will teach you the secrets of safe, smart, inexpensive travel — low on stress and high on fun. You’ll learn how to travel smoothly and affordably by planning an efficient itinerary, eating and sleeping well, avoiding crowds, packing smartly, and more.
Italian Conversation Group
Wednesday, October 11, & 25; 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Tuesday, October 17; 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Quiet Study Room
You asked for it and we listened! Italian conversation groups are starting up in the library! Do you want to improve your Italian conversation skills? Are you able to participate in a conversation even if your knowledge of Italian isn’t perfect? Then one of these groups is right for you.
Mahjong Club
Wednesday, October 11, 18, & 25, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Lundt Room
Are you a Mahjong player and looking for a group? Our Mahjong Club meets on Wednesdays at 1 pm. No instruction is provided so you must know how to play.
History of the Beatles: From Liverpool to Abbey Road
Wednesday, October 11; 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Lundt Room
This lecture will follow in the footsteps of The Beatles as they embark on their historic journey starting from their early days as a cover band in Liverpool and Hamburg, into the excitement of Beatlemania, including concert performances, and films, thru their creative ground-breaking studio albums (Rubber Soul, Revolver, Sgt. Peppers) to the formation of Apple Corps and finally to their remarkable final recordings at Abbey Road Studios. Coming full circle, this presentation will explore the highlights of each individual’s post-Beatles work. This presentation will be hybrid, in-person and on Zoom. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
Friends One-Day Book Collection
Saturday, October 14; 10:00am – 2:00pm
Foyer
Donate the books you no longer need to Friends of the Library!
Book Launch: Babylon by Michelle Cameron
Sunday, October 15, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
Lundt Room
Meet novelist and Chatham resident Michelle Cameron and celebrate the launch of her new novel Babylon: A Novel of Jewish Captivity. A family saga spanning three generations of exile, Babylon relates a little-known epoch of Jewish history.
Quilting Over the Centuries: Women’s Life and History in America
Sunday, October 15; 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Woman’s Club Room
Quilting is one of the oldest forms of women’s crafting. Discover how the history of quilting in the United States provides key insights into the history of women from colonial times to today. Learn about Liberty Hall’s women and view some of Liberty Hall’s oldest quilts.
Virtual Author Talk: Ruth Ware
Wednesday, October 18; 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Online
New York Times bestselling author of The Woman in Cabin 10 and The It Girl will talk about her newest book, Zero Days.
When There Were Witches: An Exploration of the Salem Witch Trials
Monday, October 23; 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Online via Zoom
Our friends from the Kemmerer Library (Harding Township) are graciously sharing this program with us.
Book Group: Killers of the Flower Moon
Wednesday, October 25; 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Woman’s Club Room
Join us in person at the library as our book group discusses Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann. Everyone is welcome to attend, and you may pick up a copy of the book at the reference desk.
Virtual Author Talk: John Irving
Thursday, October 26; 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Online
You are in for a treat when you join us for an intimate conversation with John Irving as he chats about not only his most recent novel, The Last Chairlift, but also about his prolific body of work and a lifetime spent writing. Irving’s first novel was published when he was just twenty-six years old. He has gone on to be nominated for a National Book Award three times and won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.
All Ages
Watercolor Painting Basics – Ralph Buehr-Themed Fruit Painting
Monday, October 2; 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Lundt Room
Watercolor Painting Basics – Loose Watercolor of Animals
Tuesday, October 3; 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Lundt Room
Watercolor Painting Basics – Autumn Wreath
Wednesday, October 4, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Lundt Room
Chili Cook-Off Competition
Wednesday, October 18; 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Lundt Room
Let’s turn up the heat! Help us celebrate the fall season by entering your signature pot of chili in our 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off!! For this event, you’re the judge! So even if you aren’t making a chili, guests will be able to vote for your favorite chilis in various categories. Voting entry for those who bring a chili dish.
