Burnham Library

Dreams We Chase: An Author Talk with Novelist Jennifer Weiner
2025-03-26 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual Program
Dreams We Chase: An Author Talk with Novelist Jennifer Weiner
Wednesday, March 27 at 7:00 pm via digital live stream
REGISTER HERE
You’re invited to a glimmering conversation with New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner as we chat about the signature emotional depth of her books that have been inspiring readers toward self-discovery for decades. Hearing from the queen of fun herself, we’ll chat with the author about her New York Times bestselling novels, Good In Bed, In Her Shoes, Big Summer, The Breakaway and many more.
Additionally, in a special preview, Weiner will briefly discuss her forthcoming novel (due out on April 8, 2025) The Griffin Sister’s Greatest Hits. Set in the world of pop music, The Griffin Sister’s Greatest Hits is about sisters, motherhood, young love, and the dreams we chase.
About the Author: Jennifer Weiner is a #1 New York Times bestselling author whose books have spent over five years on the New York Times bestseller list, with more than 11 million copies in print in 36 countries. She is the author of the novels Good in Bed (2001) and In Her Shoes (2002), which was turned into a major motion picture starring Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette and Shirley MacLaine. And the author of That Summer (2021); The Breakaway (2024); and The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits (forthcoming 2025) . She is also the author of The Littlest Bigfoot middle-grade trilogy, Her nonfiction collection Hungry Heart: Adventures in Life, Love, and Writing (2016), was a finalist for the PEN/Diamonstein-Spielvogel Award for the Art of the Essay.

Burnham Bunch Storytime
2025-03-27 10:30 - 11:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Burnham Bunch Storytime
Stories, songs, and bubbles for the under-5 crowd
Thursdays 10:30 – 11;00 am
Drop-in, registration is not required. Questions? Email lambruso@burnhamlibrary.org

Wordsmith and Wonder: An Author Talk with Jodi Picoult
2025-04-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Virtual Program
Wordsmith and Wonder: An Author Talk with Jodi Picoult
Wednesday, April 2 at 7:00 pm via digital live stream
REGISTER HERE
Step into Spring with us as we chat with the highly acclaimed New York Times bestselling author Jodi Picoult about her newest novel, By Any Other Name.
Told in intertwining narratives, By Any Other Name is a sweeping tale of ambition, courage, and desire that asks what price each woman is willing to pay to see their work live on—even if it means they will be forgotten. Register now to join the wondrous conversation!
About the Author: Jodi Picoult is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty-nine novels, including By Any Other Name, Mad Honey (co-authored with Jennifer Finney Boylan), Wish You Were Here, The Book of Two Ways, A Spark of Light, Small Great Things, Leaving Time, and My Sister’s Keeper, and, with daughter Samantha van Leer, two young adult novels, Between the Lines and Off the Page. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband.

Art @ Burnham: A Pocketful of Painters - April 8 - May 30
2025-04-08 10:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States

The Stories, Science, and History of Trees with Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming
2025-04-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Program
The Stories, Science, and History of Trees with Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming
Wednesday, April 8 at 2:00 pm via digital live stream
REGISTER HERE
Join us as Smithsonian Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming, guides us through the secret world of trees as is revealed in the beautiful and absorbing guide to the giants of the plant world—The Tree Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Trees.
Trees occur naturally throughout the world and have been a part of human history for almost as long as humans have existed. Used for shelter, tools, fuel, and food, they also help supply the atmosphere with oxygen and form astonishingly diverse ecosystems, as well as some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Now the intricate world of leafy woodlands and abundant rainforests is revealed in this extensive visual guide to trees, exploring their key scientific traits and their ecological importance, as well as their enduring significance in human history and culture. From ancient oaks and great redwoods to lush banyans and imposing kapoks, The Tree Book reveals the anatomy, behaviors, and beauty of these incredible plants and habitats in detail.
Combining natural history and a scientific overview with a wider look at the history, uses, symbolism, and mythology of trees, this book is a new kind of guide to these fascinating organisms. Register today to learn more about the beautiful world of trees!
About the Presenter: Matthew Fleming has been a horticulturist at the Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Facility in Suitland, Maryland since 2010. In addition to serving as a supervisory horticulturist, he manages three greenhouses with nearly a thousand tropical specimens that are displayed throughout the many Smithsonian gardens and landscapes along the National Mall during the warmer months. He has given talks on a wide variety of plant-related topics at the Smithsonian ranging from indoor pests to overwintering tropical plants. Prior to coming to the Smithsonian, Matt was a purchasing agent and garden center assistant manager for a full-service landscaping firm. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences where he studied Horticulture and Landscape Contracting.

Kids Klub - Winter STEM for Grades 2-3
2025-04-09 03:15 - 16:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Kids Klub – Winter STEM
Grades 2-3

Wednesdays 3:15 – 4:00
Meeting dates: 1/15, 2/12, 3/12

Fun building and creative challenges with a winter theme.
Registration Required. To register, email Mrs. Lianne lambruso@burnhamlibrary.org

Young Explorers - Builder's Club for Grades K & 1
2025-04-10 15:15 - 16:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Young Explorers – Builder’s Club
Grades K-1

Wednesdays from 3:15 – 4:00
Meeting Dates: 1/16, 2/13, 3/13
Using various materials, kids in grades K & 1 will build, build, build!
Registration required. Email Mrs. Lianne at lambruso@burnhamlibrary.org

Our National Parks with Dr. Richard Benfield
2025-04-10 18:00 - 19:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Our National Parks
Thursday, April 10 from 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Dr. Richard Benfield will draw upon his ten years of teaching about National Parks and World Heritage Sites, his four years working in Banff National Park for Parks Canada, and his latest research projects on conservation and protection of large feline predators in the World’s National Parks to create an immersive experience for all participants.
“National parks represent our best ideals—truly American, democratic, and a reflection of us at our finest, not our worst” – Wallace Stegner,1983
About the Speaker: Dr. Richard Benfield is an Emeritus Professor of Geography at Central Connecticut State University, where he served as Professor and Chair of the Department of Geography for 25 years. An author of two best-selling books and a nationally and internationally acclaimed speaker, Dr. Benfield has dedicated a quarter of a century to writing and speaking about America’s and international national parks. His travels to over 135 countries provide first-hand experiences of the world’s wonders, including cathedrals, wildlife (with a special affection for Snow Leopards, wolves, and gorillas), and even hidden gems in London that most tourists never discover.
Registration is required. Please call or email jkallay@burnhamlibrary.org to register.

Two Town Tabletop Club
2025-04-12 13:00 - 17:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Are you ready to dive into a world of adventure, strategy, and fun? Whether you’re a seasoned tabletop game aficionado or just curious to see what all the excitement is about, our monthly meet-up has something for everyone! Why Join Us?

Explore New Games: From favorites to the latest hits, discover a wide variety of games that will challenge your mind and spark your imagination.
Meet Like-Minded Enthusiasts: Connect with fellow game lovers, share tips and strategies.
All Skill Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a beginner or a master, our meet-up is the perfect place to learn new games or showcase your expertise.

Don’t miss out on the fun! Grab your friends, roll the dice, and join us for an unforgettable gaming experience. 🧩
Questions? Contact jkallay@burnhamlibrary.org

Drop-in thru the back door.

Artist Reception: A Pocketful of Painters: Past & Present Pupils of Peter Seltzer
2025-04-12 15:00 - 17:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States

Burnham's Satellite Library
2025-04-22 12:30 - 13:30 | Hilltop Center, United States
Join Katie at the Hilltop Center on the 4th Tuesday of Each Month!
Whether you’re looking to discover new books, need help with tech, or just want to chat, Katie has you covered. Swing by to grab a new library card, register for upcoming programs, or simply enjoy some good conversation. She’s here to assist with it all!

Kids Klub- Story STEM (Grades K-3)
2025-04-23 15:15 - 16:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Burnham Library Presents:
Kids Klub – Story STEM for Grades K-3 (NEW grade configuration)
Wednesdays 4/23, 5/7, 5/21
3:15pm-4:00pm
Join us for a story and then create/build and design solutions to the problems we read about!
Register with Mrs. Lianne lambruso@burnhamlibrary.org

Book Discussion: The Storyteller's Secret
2025-04-23 17:00 - 19:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Book Discussion
All are welcome to join in the conversation on Wednesday, April 23, at 5:00 pm to discuss The Storyteller’s Secret by Sejal Badani. Copies of each selection will be available at the library, or you can request a curbside pick-up. For more information, email jkallay@burnhamlibrary.org

Burnham Bunch Spring Storytime
2025-04-24 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-05-01 10:30 - 11:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Burnham Library Presents:
Burnham Bunch Storytime
Thursdays 4/24 – 5/29 @10:30am
No registration required. Drop in
Stories, songs and bubbles for the 5 and under crowd!

A Conversation with Bestselling Author Gregg Hurwitz: The Thrill of Writing Action, Adventure, and Suspense
2025-04-24 19:00 - 20:00 | Virtual Program
The Thrill of Writing Action, Adventure, and Suspense: A Conversation with Author Gregg Hurwitz
Thursday, April 24 at 7:00 pm via digital live stream
REGISTER HERE
Join us as Smithsonian Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming, guides us through the secret world of trees as is revealed in the beautiful and absorbing guide to the giants of the plant world—The Tree Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Trees.
Trees occur naturally throughout the world and have been a part of human history for almost as long as humans have existed. Used for shelter, tools, fuel, and food, they also help supply the atmosphere with oxygen and form astonishingly diverse ecosystems, as well as some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Now the intricate world of leafy woodlands and abundant rainforests is revealed in this extensive visual guide to trees, exploring their key scientific traits and their ecological importance, as well as their enduring significance in human history and culture. From ancient oaks and great redwoods to lush banyans and imposing kapoks, The Tree Book reveals the anatomy, behaviors, and beauty of these incredible plants and habitats in detail.
Combining natural history and a scientific overview with a wider look at the history, uses, symbolism, and mythology of trees, this book is a new kind of guide to these fascinating organisms. Register today to learn more about the beautiful world of trees!
About the Presenter: Matthew Fleming has been a horticulturist at the Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Facility in Suitland, Maryland since 2010. In addition to serving as a supervisory horticulturist, he manages three greenhouses with nearly a thousand tropical specimens that are displayed throughout the many Smithsonian gardens and landscapes along the National Mall during the warmer months. He has given talks on a wide variety of plant-related topics at the Smithsonian ranging from indoor pests to overwintering tropical plants. Prior to coming to the Smithsonian, Matt was a purchasing agent and garden center assistant manager for a full-service landscaping firm. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences where he studied Horticulture and Landscape Contracting.

Cancelled Tween Time Design Lab Grades 4-5
2025-04-25 15:15 - 16:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Burnham Library Presents:
Tween Time Design Lab for Grades 4-5
Every other Fridays 4/25, 5/9, 5/23
3:15pm-4:00pm
Build and design based on fun, imaginative prompts that will stretch your creativity!

Story Mode: Build Your Own City @ the Gunn Library
2025-04-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Gunn Memorial Library, CT, United States
Minor Memorial Library, Gunn Memorial Library, and Burnham Library are once again partnering to offer a fantastic summer reading program: Level Up! @ Your Library
Leading up to June’s Tri-Town summer kick-off, Gunn Junior Library invites the Washington, Roxbury, and Bridgewater communities to join in Story Mode, a creative storytelling adventure!
The Junior Library will provide four Remix Stations in collaboration with the GIANT Room, a New York City-based innovation hub for kids. These stations will allow you, your friends, and your family to draw and invent unique characters, settings, and plot twists and see them transformed into published trading cards, games, and comic strips.
Each month is a self-directed activity, so you can complete it on your own time with or without the help of a librarian. The Junior Library also offers “Creation Hours” every week, during which you can use supplies from the Makerspace to bring your vision to life. Be sure to check the library’s website for the complete schedule!
Each month focuses on a different part of your story:
March 8-29 • Dream up your character. Complete a character sheet with a drawing of an avatar and its traits, including powers, power rating, voice, favorites, items, weaknesses, strengths, birthday, habitat, physical features, awards, and more. The GIANT Room will remix your creation into a printed trading card for you! Special Hour with Ms. Teresa from Roxbury: Saturday, March 22, 10:00 – 11:00 am
April 5-26 • Build your own city and create a place for the story to happen. Engineer a building and decide its materials and unique features. The GIANT Room will remix this creation into another printed trading card featuring their building sketch, an AI-generated 3D render, and its features. Special Hour with Ms. Jean from Roxbury & Burnham: Saturday, April 26, 10:00 – 11:00 am
May 3-24, create challenges for your character. Help create a deck of “Would You Rather” questions by submitting a question that helps you reflect on your emotions, makes you smile with a rhyme, sparks a debate, or gives you the giggles! The GIANT Room will remix your creation into a printed trading card. Special Hour with Ms. Lianne from the Burnham: Saturday, May 17, 10:00 – 11:00 am
June 7-28, tell a story about your character. Write and illustrate a comic strip using a pre-made template, and the GIANT Room will remix it into a printed poster. Special Hour with Ms. Teresa: Saturday, June 14, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Saturday, June 21, from 10:00 am -12:00 pm kick off summer reading and level up your character’s story as you visit several activity stations at this community event with the GIANT Room.
This is an excellent opportunity to express your creativity, collaborate with your community, and see your ideas come to life!
This program was made possible by the Connecticut State Library.

Town Event: Town Cleanup
2025-04-26 10:00 - 12:30 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States

CANCELLED - Open Mic Night
2025-04-26 17:00 - 18:30 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
This program has been cancelled.
Join us for our second annual Open Mic Night! Register to perform and share a favorite work or original piece, or just come to listen and enjoy the performances and light refreshments!
You don’t have to be a professional – we seek to create a supportive space for everyone to share! Any kind of performance is welcome – play an instrument, share a favorite monologue, poem or written work by someone else that inspires you, your own original work, dance, acoustic music, you name it!
This program is for ages 12+. Registration is required for audience members and performers, since space is limited. Register at the Google Form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16jiqN8XPJXjbLaJwQ8rHCdp91K094SmDsmQBXUyvmsU/edit

Performers, please note: Each performance will be limited to 5 minutes, and we ask that performances be kept PG-13. The host will share a set list for registered performances prior to the event.
Questions? Email Katie at ksteele@burnhamlibrary.org

Give Local Community Fundraiser
2025-04-29 07:00 - 2025-04-30 19:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Give Local Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills
36-hour Giving Day
Tuesday, April 29 at 7:00 am to Wednesday, April 30 at 7:00 pm
Libraries are community resources. We can only do what we do with your support! Take part in Give Local 2025 and support your favorite nonprofits. Your donation to Burnham Library will help to fund our annual summer reading initiative, sustain digital resources, and sponsor quality programming for all ages.
GIVE HERE https://www.givelocalccf.org/organizations/bridgewater-library-association

Staying Safe Online - Part Two
2025-04-29 14:00 - 15:30 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Staying Safe Online – Part Two with Mike Ingber
Presented by the Burnham Library, the Hilltop Senior Center, and Community Caring in Bridgewater
Tuesday, April 29 from 2:00 – 3:30 pm

In Part Two of this series, Mike Ingber will focus on how to keep your computer protected, how to stay safe while browsing the internet, how to recognize dangerous emails and signs that you may have been infected, advice for shopping safely, privacy suggestions, and more.

Refreshments will be served.
Registration required. Please RSVP below or email jkallay@burnhamlibrary.org

Bridgewater Community Book Club: The Glimmer Girls with author Jennifer Coburn
2025-04-30 17:30 - 19:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Author Jennifer Coburn, The Girls of the Glimmer Factory
Wednesday, April 30 at 5:30 pm Location: Burnham Library
The Bridgewater Community Book Club will host author Jennifer Coburn. A light reception will follow the discussion.
Sign-up sheets are posted at the Bridgewater Congregational Church’s Friendship Hall and the Burnham Library.

CANCELLED The Connecticut 169 Club: Your Passport & Guide to Exploring Connecticut with Author Marty Podskoch
2025-05-01 18:00 - 19:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
This program is now cancelled.
The Connecticut 169 Club: Your Passport and Guide to Exploring Connecticut
Join us as we welcome author and historian Marty Podskoch for a book talk and signing. His book, The Connecticut 169 Club: Your Passport and Guide to Exploring Connecticut, encourages travelers to visit all the towns and villages of our beautiful and unique state.
Marty will discuss his collaboration with individuals from each town in writing the book, who offered highlights of their town’s history, interesting places to visit, and local attractions. He also incorporates a fun contest with audience participation to see if they know the location of pictures of interesting places in towns.
Podskoch created this book as a guide and a passport. It has a space for travelers to journal about their experiences and a place to get the book stamped or signed by a resident or business …. or LOCAL LIBRARY! Travelers will get to know the locals, perhaps learn about a good place to eat or an interesting local attraction and learn a lot about Connecticut and its residents in the process.
People who visit all 169 towns will receive the “Leatherman Award” patch at a luncheon or dinner held at a different town each year. The award is named after the vagabond who lived in caves and traveled a route regularly (approx. 34 days) from the Connecticut River to the Hudson River during the late 1800s.
Books will be available for purchase at the event.
Registration is required. RSVP Below or email jkallay@burnhamlibrary.org

Jedi Training
2025-05-02 15:15 - 16:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
Burnham Library Presents: Jedi Training
Friday, May 2 from 3:15-4:00 pm
Ages 6-10
Registration Required. Register with Mrs. Lianne at lambruso@burnhamlibrary.org.
For all aspiring Young Jedi’s! Learn the way of the force and acquire the skills to be a successful Jedi at our Jedi Training Academy!

Town Event: Fishing Derby
2025-05-03 08:00 - 10:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States

TOWN EVENT: Bridgewater Congregational Church Annual Tag Sale
2025-05-03 09:00 - 15:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States

TOWN EVENT: St. Mark's Penny Plu$ Auction
2025-05-03 11:00 - 14:00 | The Burnham Library, 62 Main Street South, Burnham Library, Bridgewater, CT, 06798, United States
The annual Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church Penny Auction will occur on Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5 Main Street South, Bridgewater. Drawing begins promptly at 1 p.m.

A luncheon and door prizes will be offered. Bring a nonperishable food item and get one free ticket per family. For more information, please call the church office at 860-354-8269.
