Submitted by Elizabeth Reinhart
(August 23, 2026) — The following programs and events will take place at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue in Essex during the month of September, 2026:
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. “Why the Ideas that Built America Still Matter,” with David O. Stewart (Virtual Author Talk)
Join us as we chat with award-winning historian David O. Stewart about his newest work, The Democracy We Must Keep, and the question he explores throughout the book: What did America’s founders say about democracy, and can we remain true to their vision for America? Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560. This program is free and open to all.
Wednesdays: September 2, 2026 and September 16, 2026 3:00 p.m./4:00 p.m./5:00 p.m. Medicare CHOICES Counseling
Do you have questions about Medicare? Register for a one-hour session with a CHOICES counselor at Essex Library. CHOICES (Connecticut’s program for Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and referral, Counseling, and Eligibility Screening) helps Connecticut’s older adults and persons with disabilities understand their Medicare coverage and health care options. This program is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560.
Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Extend Your Growing Season: Mastering Fall, Winter, and Spring Crops
Get ready to extend your growing season like a pro! Join our master gardener, Mark Gostkiewicz, in this workshop where you’ll learn the ins and outs of cultivating crops in the fall, winter, and spring. Registration is suggested. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560. This program is free and open to all.
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. “A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable Space Crew,” with Daniel Kraus (Virtual Author Talk)
Prepare to launch into the darkest depths of deep space! Join us online as we sit down with master storyteller Daniel Kraus, winner of the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, to celebrate the release of his breathtaking new novel, The Sixth Nik. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560. This program is free and open to all.
Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Chocolate Class & Tasting
International award-winning chocolatiers will present a bean-to-bar craft chocolate class and tasting. Sample a variety of world-class bars and learn how cultivation, fermentation, roasting, grinding, and conching affect the taste and mouth-feel of chocolate. This class, for ages 18 and up, will be 90 minutes in length. Space is limited. Registration is required. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560. This program is free and open to the public.
Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. A Pictorial Tour of Costa Rica
Embark on a visual journey deep into the lush jungles of Costa Rica through professional photographer Bert Sirkin’s photographs. Experience the vibrant beauty of one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. Each image offers a window into the heart of Costa Rica’s teeming jungles, showcasing the incredible variety of its wildlife in their natural habitats. This program is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560.
Founded in 1889, the Essex Library is a nonprofit public library dedicated to providing free and equal access to information, ideas and education to enrich the lives of all members of the community. www.youressexlibrary.org.
