Wednesday June 25 10:30 AM -

just one meeting this June - Returning to weekly in July

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.

Litchfield Historical Society Summer Camps 2025

Litchfield Historical Society Summer Camps 2025

Presented by Sr. Jo-Ann Iannotti, OP

Calling on examples in her own life, Sr. Jo-Ann Iannotti, will reflect on the themes of creativity and self-discovery through her practice of the two arts of poetry and photography. Her presentation will include examples from her new book, “I Know Myself As Thief”.

A book signing will follow the presentation. All book sale proceeds will support the mission of the Dominican Sisters of Hope.

Lunch will be available for purchase.

The Litchfield Farmers Market is one of the few year-round markets in the Connecticut. The weekly Saturday market offers fresh seasonal produce, fruit, berries, herbs, sustainably sourced fish; artisanal cheeses, breads and baked goods, local honey, maple syrup and gifts - all raised, grown or crafted by 15+ local vendors. 

The market occasionally hosts live music and supports non-profits from throughout the Litchfield area.

INDOOR MARKET - November through mid-June (intermittent Saturdays through the winter months -- check the website for dates.) Open Saturdays 10am - 1pm at the Litchfield Community Center located at 421 Litchfield Road, Litchfield, CT.

OUTDOOR MARKET - mid- June through October located at Center School, Litchfield.

Weekly starting June 7 through August 16

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: The Litchfield History Museum

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

Registration Requested

The Litchfield Historical Society’s weekly walking tours are the perfect way to discover Litchfield’s vibrant history and explore the town’s celebrated Historic District. The history and stories of old Litchfield are preserved in the architecture of the town. Each tour provides visitors with an overview of Litchfield’s history - from the stories behind famous landmarks to anecdotes about past residents to appreciation of prominent buildings. 

The walk will begin at the Litchfield Historical Society (7 South Street) and lasts approximately 1 hour. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water. Walking tours are free for members and $10 for non-members.

Walking Tours are sponsored by Berkshire Alarm

The Hickory Stick Bookshop is delighted to welcome author Mary Dixie Carter who will be signing copies of her new book “Marguerite By The Lake” on Saturday, June 28th at 3 pm.

ABOUT THE BOOK

This May, Mary Dixie Carter returns with an atmospheric, tense, upmarket suspense novel.  In “Marguerite By The Lake” Marguerite Gray is a lifestyle icon known for her garden parties, high-end business ventures, and being the muse behind the famous Serge Kuhnert painting, Marguerite by the Lake.  Her presence is overpowering, her taste, legendary.  For the last few years, Phoenix has been the gardener on the famed Rosecliff grounds, home of the Gray family: Marguerite and her husband Geoffrey.  Phoenix came from humble beginnings, and now she works hard to craft the landscape that underpins Marguerite’s brand.

When a storm threatens the launch party for Marguerite’s latest book, it’s Phoenix who spots the danger to the guests and rushes to Geoffrey’s side to save him from a falling tree.  Geoffrey is grateful - perhaps too grateful.  Marguerite is…jealous.  Phoenix senses the danger of being drawn deeper into their lives but can’t resist the attention, becoming embroiled in an affair that could destroy her career. But soon after the affair begins Marguerite falls to her death, from the same high point at Rosecliff where she posed for Marguerite by the Lake.  Now Phoenix has another secret, one that haunts her even as Geoffrey invites her to move into the manor with him.  A secret that Detective Hanna and Marguerite’s daughter—her spitting image—are circling closer and closer to.  Phoenix tries to put it all behind her and find her rightful place at Rosecliff. But as every gardener knows, nothing stays buried forever.

“Marguerite By The Lake” is an addictive, beautifully written story about art, nature, and obsession set among the glamourous backdrop of a perfectly manicured garden and all the secrets that lie beneath.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Dixie Carter is the critically acclaimed author of “The Photographer”. Her writing has appeared in TIME, The Economist, San Francisco Chronicle, The Chicago Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and more.  She worked at The Observer for five years as the publishing director and has worked as a professional actor.  Mary Dixie has an honors degree in English Literature from Harvard College and holds an MFA in Creative Writing from The New School.  She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two young children.

Author photograph – Beowulf Sheehan.

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK

"Shiver-inducing . . . Carter brings readers into Phoenix's fraying mind, wringing some delightfully gothic fireworks out of her struggle to avoid detection and stake her claim as the new mistress of Rosecliff.  The result is a winning homage to Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca."-- Publishers Weekly

"Dazzling and atmospheric, Marguerite by the Lake is impossible to put down.  A modern-day ghost story, with tinges of Gothic horror, it's as haunting and gorgeous as the painting at its center.  I was gripped until the very last page--a final scene I still can't stop thinking about."--Jenny Hollander, USA Today bestselling author of Everyone Who Can Forgive Me is Dead

"Tense and richly emotional, Marguerite by the Lake is a deep dive into toxic love and the danger of wanting another person's life.  Carter's prose shines, hypnotic and lyrical as she paints characters and a setting that pop off the page, but it's the story's overarching sense of doom that makes it unputdownable.  An engrossing read with an ending that lingers."--Kimberly Belle, internationally bestselling author of The Paris Widow

This event is free and open to the public.  If you are unable to attend this event, you may reserve signed copies of “Marguerite By The Lake” by calling The Hickory Stick Bookshop at (860) 868 0525, or shop our website 24/7 at www.hickorystickbookshop.com.  

Docent led house tours of Miss Edith's Cottage at Topsmead run the second & fourth weekends of the month through October 12th, 2025. First Come, first served. Tours start at noon and run for approximately 30 minutes; last tour at 4:30 p.m. Free but donations are appreciated to support maintenance of cottage interior/exterior including gardens, the scholarship fund, and educational programming. Meet at the front door of the cottage. For GPS directions, designate Buell Road as your destination. We look forward to seeing you!

🌻 Join Us This Summer at Arethusa Farm 4-H Camp! 🌻

Located on a beautiful 140-acre nonprofit farm in Litchfield, CT, Arethusa Farm 4-H Camp is more than just summer fun—it’s a hands-on journey into sustainable agriculture, animal care, and environmental science!

🧒 Open to youth ages 5–13

📅 10 weeks of weekday camps | June 16 – August 22, 2025

🕘 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM daily

• 🌿 Discovery Camps (First 6 weeks): Explore farm animals, horticulture, environmental science, ag mechanics, and more!
• 🐑 Specialty Camps (Last 4 weeks):Choose from Vet Science Camp or Farm Camp for a deeper dive into animal care and sustainable farming.

This camp is part of a larger mission to reconnect youth and families with the land, promote food security, and build a healthier, more resilient community.

🔗 Register now

📧 Questions? Email us at arethusafarm4Hcamp@gmail.com

🌐 Learn more: www.arethusafarmfoundation.org

Let’s grow, learn, and thrive—together! 🌾

Mondays at 10:30 AM - June 23 - August 18*

For ages 4 - 8

*No class July 7

Using Letters are Characters® Parents and caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. Ensuring that your child learns to read to their highest potential is one of the greatest gifts that you can give them. Using Letters are Characters and Letters are Builders trademarked play-based methods, we will laugh and play our way to literacy and deep reading and empower you to be a confident and competent literacy guide for your child!

This program is funded by the generous support of the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation. Register and receive a Letters are Characters or Letters are Builders kit while supplies last. In addition to the in-person program, you will also receive weekly guidance delivered right to your inbox.

Does your child need to learn to recognize the letters and know the sounds that they make?

Visit the Oliver Wolcott Library Website for more details and links to receive Letters are Characters Kits.

On Zoom: June 2 - July 14

Monday Scholars combines the best of online learning and engaging discussion!

Join us for the full 6-weeks or drop in to explore your favorite topics. Each week, we will watch two video lectures together and then engage in lively conversation afterwards. The conversation will be facilitated by OWL's Caroline Ugurlu. 

About the course:

Join us as we explore 12 insightful, informative, illuminating, and (yes) humorous lectures. Professor Steven Gimbel of Gettysburg College will take you through the philosophical theories and explanations of humor, from blatantly obvious puns to complex narratives to sly twists of language. Drawing from both analytical and continental philosophy, the natural and social sciences, and the observations of thinkers ranging from Aristotle and Jonathan Swift to Sigmund Freud and Immanuel Kant, this course will leave you with a stronger appreciation of the jokes you tell and the jokes you hear. What's more, it may just leave you with a clearer idea of the true meaning of life. And that's no laughing matter.

About the professor:

Professor Steven Gimbel holds the Edwin T. Johnson and Cynthia Shearer Johnson Distinguished Teaching Chair in the Humanities at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania, where he also serves as Chair of the Philosophy Department. He received his bachelor's degree in Physics and Philosophy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and his doctoral degree in Philosophy from the Johns Hopkins University. His research focuses on the philosophy of science, particularly the nature of scientific reasoning and the ways that science and culture interact. He has published many scholarly articles and four books, including Einstein’s Jewish Science: Physics at the Intersection of Politics and Religion; and Einstein: His Space and Times.

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

Waldo's Back in Washington Depot This July!

Once again, in celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and two hundred and fifty independent bookstores across the country for some hide-and-seek fun to encourage communities to patronize their local businesses.

Where’s Waldo?   In Washington Depot, of course!  Beginning on Tuesday 1st July, the iconic children’s book character in the red-and-white-striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting 19 local businesses throughout the community .  Find Waldo Local is a great summer vacation activity and a wonderful way to support local businesses and the Shop Local movement.

Anyone who wishes to join in the fun can pick up a “Find Waldo in Washington Depot” passport from any of the participating stores.  When you spot Waldo collect a store stamp or signature.  And to make things a little more challenging, Waldo’s magnifying glass will also be hiding in The Hickory Stick Bookshop.

Great prizes for participants who get 16 or more stamps in their passport. Completed passports should be handed in to the Hickory Stick Bookshop by no later than 5.00 pm on Thursday July 31st.

We will be having a celebration party from 3-4 pm on Saturday August 2nd. Check our website for further details!

There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for all of July.  

For more information about hunting for Waldo in Washington Depot, call The Hickory Stick Bookshop at 860-868-0525 or visit our website at www.hickorystickbookshop.com.  

Waldo's Back in Washington Depot This July!

Once again, in celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and two hundred and fifty independent bookstores across the country for some hide-and-seek fun to encourage communities to patronize their local businesses.

Where’s Waldo?   In Washington Depot, of course!  Beginning on Tuesday 1st July, the iconic children’s book character in the red-and-white-striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting 19 local businesses throughout the community .  Find Waldo Local is a great summer vacation activity and a wonderful way to support local businesses and the Shop Local movement.

Anyone who wishes to join in the fun can pick up a “Find Waldo in Washington Depot” passport from any of the participating stores.  When you spot Waldo collect a store stamp or signature.  And to make things a little more challenging, Waldo’s magnifying glass will also be hiding in The Hickory Stick Bookshop.

Great prizes for participants who get 16 or more stamps in their passport. Completed passports should be handed in to the Hickory Stick Bookshop by no later than 5.00 pm on Thursday July 31st.

We will be having a celebration party from 3-4 pm on Saturday August 2nd. Check our website for further details!

There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for all of July.  

For more information about hunting for Waldo in Washington Depot, call The Hickory Stick Bookshop at 860-868-0525 or visit our website at www.hickorystickbookshop.com.  

Date: Friday, July 4

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Location: The Litchfield History Museum

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

Registration Requested

Celebrate Independence Day with our popular Heroes of the Revolution Walking Tour on Friday, July 4 at 10:00 a.m. Discover Litchfield's Revolutionary history and how Litchfield's residents young and old contributed to the founding of the nation.

The walk will begin at the Litchfield Historical Society (7 South Street) and lasts approximately 1 hour. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water. Walking tours are free for members and $10 for non-members.

Walking Tours are sponsored by Berkshire Alarm

Come learn about the terrifying and heroic deeds of these two important men, their families and their friends who were ALL pivotal in securing American Independence! This family oriented outdoor rain or shine event includes Rev War costumes! *Warning for pets and HSPs, there is LOUD cannon and musket fire, TWICE!*

Come Join the Celebration as we are only one year away from America250! (1776-2026)

Could you have a Revolutionary War patriot in your family tree? Ask your family what they know and feel free to approach any of us at the event. We love to help people connect to their ancestors who aided in American Independence!

MaryFloydTallmadgeDAR.org

Litchfield County's First Health & Wellness Festival is a two-day event that will be held in July, 2025.

• July 5th at Litchfield Community Field in Litchfield, CT
• July 6th off-site activities at White Memorial Conservation Center and other locations (full program to be announced in May)

We invite health and wellness businesses and practitioners to showcase their product or service, become a sponsor, or simply get involved in bringing this event to life. Every bit of support helps and together, we can create something truly impactful. This event will be free to everyone: Litchfield County residents and outside visitors alike.

Our mission is to promote holistic well-being by encouraging a comprehensive approach to health that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. We strive to empower individuals to cultivate balance and vitality in their daily lives.

The Litchfield Farmers Market is one of the few year-round markets in the Connecticut. The weekly Saturday market offers fresh seasonal produce, fruit, berries, herbs, sustainably sourced fish; artisanal cheeses, breads and baked goods, local honey, maple syrup and gifts - all raised, grown or crafted by 15+ local vendors. 

The market occasionally hosts live music and supports non-profits from throughout the Litchfield area.

INDOOR MARKET - November through mid-June (intermittent Saturdays through the winter months -- check the website for dates.) Open Saturdays 10am - 1pm at the Litchfield Community Center located at 421 Litchfield Road, Litchfield, CT.

OUTDOOR MARKET - mid- June through October located at Center School, Litchfield.

Weekly starting June 7 through August 16

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Location: The Litchfield History Museum

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

Registration Requested

The Litchfield Historical Society’s weekly walking tours are the perfect way to discover Litchfield’s vibrant history and explore the town’s celebrated Historic District. The history and stories of old Litchfield are preserved in the architecture of the town. Each tour provides visitors with an overview of Litchfield’s history - from the stories behind famous landmarks to anecdotes about past residents to appreciation of prominent buildings. 

The walk will begin at the Litchfield Historical Society (7 South Street) and lasts approximately 1 hour. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water. Walking tours are free for members and $10 for non-members.

Walking Tours are sponsored by Berkshire Alarm

Waldo's Back in Washington Depot This July!

Once again, in celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and two hundred and fifty independent bookstores across the country for some hide-and-seek fun to encourage communities to patronize their local businesses.

Where’s Waldo?   In Washington Depot, of course!  Beginning on Tuesday 1st July, the iconic children’s book character in the red-and-white-striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting 19 local businesses throughout the community .  Find Waldo Local is a great summer vacation activity and a wonderful way to support local businesses and the Shop Local movement.

Anyone who wishes to join in the fun can pick up a “Find Waldo in Washington Depot” passport from any of the participating stores.  When you spot Waldo collect a store stamp or signature.  And to make things a little more challenging, Waldo’s magnifying glass will also be hiding in The Hickory Stick Bookshop.

Great prizes for participants who get 16 or more stamps in their passport. Completed passports should be handed in to the Hickory Stick Bookshop by no later than 5.00 pm on Thursday July 31st.

We will be having a celebration party from 3-4 pm on Saturday August 2nd. Check our website for further details!

There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for all of July.  

For more information about hunting for Waldo in Washington Depot, call The Hickory Stick Bookshop at 860-868-0525 or visit our website at www.hickorystickbookshop.com.  

🌻 Join Us This Summer at Arethusa Farm 4-H Camp! 🌻

Located on a beautiful 140-acre nonprofit farm in Litchfield, CT, Arethusa Farm 4-H Camp is more than just summer fun—it’s a hands-on journey into sustainable agriculture, animal care, and environmental science!

🧒 Open to youth ages 5–13

📅 10 weeks of weekday camps | June 16 – August 22, 2025

🕘 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM daily

• 🌿 Discovery Camps (First 6 weeks): Explore farm animals, horticulture, environmental science, ag mechanics, and more!
• 🐑 Specialty Camps (Last 4 weeks):Choose from Vet Science Camp or Farm Camp for a deeper dive into animal care and sustainable farming.

This camp is part of a larger mission to reconnect youth and families with the land, promote food security, and build a healthier, more resilient community.

🔗 Register now

📧 Questions? Email us at arethusafarm4Hcamp@gmail.com

🌐 Learn more: www.arethusafarmfoundation.org

Let’s grow, learn, and thrive—together! 🌾

Waldo's Back in Washington Depot This July!

Once again, in celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and two hundred and fifty independent bookstores across the country for some hide-and-seek fun to encourage communities to patronize their local businesses.

Where’s Waldo?   In Washington Depot, of course!  Beginning on Tuesday 1st July, the iconic children’s book character in the red-and-white-striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting 19 local businesses throughout the community .  Find Waldo Local is a great summer vacation activity and a wonderful way to support local businesses and the Shop Local movement.

Anyone who wishes to join in the fun can pick up a “Find Waldo in Washington Depot” passport from any of the participating stores.  When you spot Waldo collect a store stamp or signature.  And to make things a little more challenging, Waldo’s magnifying glass will also be hiding in The Hickory Stick Bookshop.

Great prizes for participants who get 16 or more stamps in their passport. Completed passports should be handed in to the Hickory Stick Bookshop by no later than 5.00 pm on Thursday July 31st.

We will be having a celebration party from 3-4 pm on Saturday August 2nd. Check our website for further details!

There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for all of July.  

For more information about hunting for Waldo in Washington Depot, call The Hickory Stick Bookshop at 860-868-0525 or visit our website at www.hickorystickbookshop.com.  

Waldo's Back in Washington Depot This July!

Once again, in celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and two hundred and fifty independent bookstores across the country for some hide-and-seek fun to encourage communities to patronize their local businesses.

Where’s Waldo?   In Washington Depot, of course!  Beginning on Tuesday 1st July, the iconic children’s book character in the red-and-white-striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting 19 local businesses throughout the community .  Find Waldo Local is a great summer vacation activity and a wonderful way to support local businesses and the Shop Local movement.

Anyone who wishes to join in the fun can pick up a “Find Waldo in Washington Depot” passport from any of the participating stores.  When you spot Waldo collect a store stamp or signature.  And to make things a little more challenging, Waldo’s magnifying glass will also be hiding in The Hickory Stick Bookshop.

Great prizes for participants who get 16 or more stamps in their passport. Completed passports should be handed in to the Hickory Stick Bookshop by no later than 5.00 pm on Thursday July 31st.

We will be having a celebration party from 3-4 pm on Saturday August 2nd. Check our website for further details!

There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for all of July.  

For more information about hunting for Waldo in Washington Depot, call The Hickory Stick Bookshop at 860-868-0525 or visit our website at www.hickorystickbookshop.com.  

Waldo's Back in Washington Depot This July!

Once again, in celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and two hundred and fifty independent bookstores across the country for some hide-and-seek fun to encourage communities to patronize their local businesses.

Where’s Waldo?   In Washington Depot, of course!  Beginning on Tuesday 1st July, the iconic children’s book character in the red-and-white-striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting 19 local businesses throughout the community .  Find Waldo Local is a great summer vacation activity and a wonderful way to support local businesses and the Shop Local movement.

Anyone who wishes to join in the fun can pick up a “Find Waldo in Washington Depot” passport from any of the participating stores.  When you spot Waldo collect a store stamp or signature.  And to make things a little more challenging, Waldo’s magnifying glass will also be hiding in The Hickory Stick Bookshop.

Great prizes for participants who get 16 or more stamps in their passport. Completed passports should be handed in to the Hickory Stick Bookshop by no later than 5.00 pm on Thursday July 31st.

We will be having a celebration party from 3-4 pm on Saturday August 2nd. Check our website for further details!

There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for all of July.  

For more information about hunting for Waldo in Washington Depot, call The Hickory Stick Bookshop at 860-868-0525 or visit our website at www.hickorystickbookshop.com.