Presented by Eric Frenette

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected? This insightful presentation offers practical tools to help you reconnect with your inner purpose and move forward with clarity. Drawing from mindfulness practices, cognitive reframing techniques, and core principles of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), we’ll explore how to navigate life’s challenges with greater intention. Whether you’re coping with anxiety, depression, grief, or simply adjusting to a new season of life, this session offers guidance for rediscovering purpose—both from a spiritual perspective and a grounded, everyday one.

Lunch is included.

Shanks Waterfront Dining @ Clinton Marina & Shopping at Clinton Outlets

Enjoy lunch on your own at the marina while watching boats pass by under shaded canopies then we will head to the outlets to take advantage of Back To School sales.

* Pre-registration & pre-payment required.

Wednesday August 6 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.

In Person & on Zoom:

As many of our patrons and guests likely know, a substantial section of the Oliver Wolcott Library is located inside the home of Oliver Wolcott Jr., a key political figure in the early history of Connecticut. Please join us for this special lecture presentation about Wolcott, delivered by historian John F. Lizzi.

Oliver Wolcott Jr. (1760-1833) was the nation’s second Treasury Secretary and a key figure on the national stage during the Federalist administrations of Presidents George Washington and John Adams. Upon his resignation from the federal government in 1800, Wolcott prospered for many years as a private citizen, and was later elected Governor of Connecticut, serving for ten years. 

Lizzi will examine Wolcott’s contributions to both national and state government during his nearly forty years of public service, as well as discuss to what extent Wolcott evolved politically during his long career. Wolcott’s success can be attributed to his steadfast commitment to his principles including personal integrity, nationalism, the need for a strong national government, and the promotion of manufacturing and industry. 

John Lizzi has taught social studies and history at Housatonic Valley Regional High School for the past thirteen years. He completed his doctoral dissertation on Oliver Wolcott Jr. earlier this spring, and has plans to adapt his work into a book. He lives in Burlington, Connecticut with his wife and two young children.

Photo of Oliver Wolcott Jr. courtesy of the Museum of Connecticut History

Registration only required to attend in-person. Zoom link is at owlibrary.org

Time for self care with nature therapy! Join Amy Lopez, Bloom Where Planted Facilitator, in crafting pressed flowers to create a summery suncatcher to take home and enjoy.

* Pre-registration & Pre-registration required. Limited spots!

Moderated by Nancy Schuler - In-Person:

Join us as we are introduced to the writings of Carol Ruggiero by her devoted husband, Albert.

Albert says this book was never meant to be, but after Carol passed in 2020, Al knew that her writings of 20 years needed to be published.

“Her writings are short, very funny, always thought provoking and just what the world needs in these often sad and scary times.” 

You will come away feeling like you've always known Carol. Al may ask volunteers from the audience if they would like to read.

Join us for a joyful exploration of nature & art!

Fridays at 1 PM - August 1, 8 & 15

For ages 8 & up

Registration is Required at OWL website

Did you ever want to explore true magic in the universe? This program series is an invitation into an artistic movement that focuses on the magic of the natural world. All are welcome, bring your individual talents and interests. All supplies will be provided. 

Ms. Ammirati is an artist, wildlife intuitive/naturalist/activist, and master gardener. 

Come join us for a Saturday on the Arethusa Farm. Enjoy the animals, be creative with a farm related craft/game, and story time with author & illustrator Ms. Parmelee! 

Saturday's starting 7/19

9:00 - 11:00 AM

Ages 5 & under

$35 per family

For questions, email: erikae@arethusafarmfoundation.org

To register and pay, please visit: www.arethasatarmcoamdation.org

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.

Storytime and Stay to Play at OWL

Saturdays: August 2 & 9

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 literacy skills, social connections, and fun! We will meet outside each week, weather permitting. 

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

Sewing by hand like troops and women had to do in 1776 without lights is Doing History! Come learn how to sew a mitts like the men and women wore during the cold weather of the Rev. War era.

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!

Mondays in August: 4, 11,18 at 10:30 am

For ages 4 - 8 & their caregivers

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!

Visit our website or call to register.

This program is funded by the generous support of the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation. 

In-Person & on Zoom: with Historian Peter Vermilyea

Join us each month for one year as we explore 12 influential Presidents through selected biographies spanning from George Washington through John F. Kennedy.

August Selection: 

In August, we will be exploring John Adams by David McCullough - A Pulitzer Prize winning book. 

In this powerful, epic biography, David McCullough unfolds the adventurous life journey of John Adams, the brilliant, fiercely independent, often irascible, always honest Yankee patriot who spared nothing in his zeal for the American Revolution and his love and dedication to fairness and American democracy.

About the Presenter:

Peter Vermilyea teaches history at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, CT and at Western Connecticut State University. A graduate of Gettysburg College, he serves as the scholarship director of his alma mater’s Civil War Institute. He is the author or editor of five books and fifteen articles, most on aspects of Civil War history.

Registration required only to attend in-person. Zoom link is at owlibrary.org

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.

Immerse yourself in the soothing and transformative experience of a Sound Bath with Gong. This unique class combines the ancient practice of sound healing with the powerful vibrations of a gong and other instruments, offering a holistic approach to relaxation and well-being.

What to Expect:

*Guided Meditation: Begin with a brief guided meditation to help you settle into the space and prepare for the sound journey.

*Sound Immersion: Lie down comfortably as the facilitator plays the gong and other instruments, creating an immersive soundscape. The vibrations and tones of the gong promote deep relaxation, reduce stress, and support mental clarity.

This class is suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners.

What to Bring:

*Comfortable clothing

*Yoga mat or blanket to lie on

*Pillow and additional blankets for warmth and comfort

*Eye mask (optional)

*Water bottle

* Pre-registration required.