Submitted by Elizabeth Reinhart
(April 30, 2026) — The following programs and events will take place at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue in Essex during the month of May, 2026.
Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. “Ancient Wisdom and Modern Technologies for Peak Brain Performance” (Virtual Author Talk)
Join us in conversation with Ruchika Sikri and Dr. Patrick Porter as we chat about their book, Brain Fitness Blueprint, in which they present a 30-day action plan to supercharge your brain and achieve peak performance. Registration for all virtual authors talks is required. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560.
Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Lecture: “Seize the Beat: The Evolution of American Music”
Brian Q. Torff, professor of visual and performing arts at Fairfield University, will provide an illustrated lecture on the development of American music from its African roots to the juke joint, club, and concert hall. Drawing from his book, Seize the Beat: The Evolution of American Music, Torff will show how the story of American popular music is steeped in social history, race, gender and class, its evolution driven by ephemeral connection to young audiences. Seating is limited. Registration is suggested. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560.
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. A Presidential Garden Talk with the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants (Virtual)
Join the Essex Library Association and the Essex Garden Club for a talk on the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants. The virtual talk, led by Peggy Cornett, curator of Plants at Monticello, and Frances Sewell, nursery manager for the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants, will focus on native plants, historic ornamentals and varieties associated with Thomas Jefferson, in addition to heirloom fruits and vegetables. Registration for all virtual programs is required. Register on the Events Calendar on the Library’s website, www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560.
Ongoing Art Exhibit
Laura Bevis Art Exhibit. Ends April 28, 2026
Essex Library is hosting an exhibition of art work by Laura Bevis. It will be on view through April 28, 2026 and most works are for sale, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the library. The exhibit is open for viewing during the Library’s regularly scheduled hours.
The Essex Library Association is a center for free, reliable information. We stimulate curiosity, nurture creativity and enable discovery. We are a window into the world. The Essex Library has been a vital community institution since 1889. Since that time, the Library has grown to become a modern, professionally staffed organization with a collection of nearly 50,000 items in a beautiful, 9,500 square foot facility. All of the Library’s programs are FREE and open to the public. www.youressexlibrary.org.
