 We are in a whirlwind of change just now. Between the time I write this and the time you read it, more people will have received vaccines and perhaps more doors (literal and figurative) will be open to us as we emerge bit by bit from the COVID winter. The arrival of spring seems like no coincidence! While we are mindful of the toll this pandemic has taken, we also want to mark the change in season. In the same way, our programs this month offer the opportunity for reflection and for celebration. We hope that you’ll join us for two timely programs that share this dual consideration of our climate. On Wednesday, March 10, Suzy Hodgson heads up a discussion on weather and climate, based on the NOVA film, Decoding the Weather Machine and on Wednesday, March 24, Jonathan Silverman leads a conversation about how art can inform our relationship to nature.
As we move into the next phase of our pandemic existence, you may be seeking closure on this experience or the chance to begin a new one. In either case, the Guided Autobiography could offer a perfect opportunity. Facilitated by Maria Wicker, this workshop series offers a process through which to explore, reflect upon and integrate one’s life story. Useful for adults navigating times of transition in life, or simply as a means to embark on a deeper process of self- discovery, this is a personal journey taken up in the company of supportive comrades.
If you’re looking to add a few signs of spring to your household, consider picking up our latest “Take & Make” kit and create a festive mini-garland from colorful felt balls. If you’re getting ready to garden, don’t forget to request seeds from the Seed Library. You can pick up your packets when you pick up your books in the library vestibule. Take a look at the Seed Library catalog and sign up for your seeds by emailing Seeds@charlottepubliclibrary.org.
On top of all of this, we also offer our latest book list compilation in recognition of Women’s History Month. “From the first settlers who came to our shores, from the first American Indian families who befriended them, men and women have worked together to build this nation. Too often the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But the achievements, leadership, courage, strength and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well.” President Jimmy Carter
We hope that March winds cease battering your door as we move through the month. Please let us know if we can provide other materials or resources to make your start to spring an enjoyable one!
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Take a virtual field trip:
Read:
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 Contribute to COVID-19 Archives
The Vermont Historical Society and Vermont Folklife Center are documenting the COVID-19 Virus in Vermont. There are a number of ways to contribute:
- Vermont Historical Society’s COVID Archive: Contribute your photographs, stories, poems, and videos of living through the COVID-19 crisis in Vermont.
- Listening in Place, Vermont Folklife Center’s oral history project:
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Guided Autobiography Workshop Series
Tuesday, March 9 to May 11
7:30 pm to 9 pm
Guided Autobiography offers a facilitated process through which to explore, reflect upon and integrate one’s life story. Useful for adults navigating times of transition in life, or simply as a means to embark on a deeper process of self- discovery, this is a personal journey taken up in the company of supportive comrades. Each week, participants will write a two-page story on a particular life theme. Through the process of sharing one’s own and responding to others’ stories, participants can find new perspective, appreciation for their own strengths, discover creative and previously overlooked opportunities, and experience a sense of connection with others. Although sessions include resources or creative tools to explore one’s history, writing skill is not a focus for this group. Limit: six participants.
Please contact the Library by March 4 to express interest in participation, and for further information on this group.
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Decoding the Weather Machine Film Discussion
Wednesday, March 10
7 pm to 8:30 pm
What is going on with the weather out there? How does our weather relate to climate change? Join Suzy Hodgson from UVM's Center for Sustainable Agriculture for a discussion of this NOVA film about the scientific basis for climate change and how we can work together for solutions and mitigation. Watch the movie ahead of time.
This program is part of our "Resilient Communities" grant funded by the American Library Association. “Resilient Communities: Libraries Respond to Climate Change” is a pilot program of the American Library Association.”
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Author Talk: "Resurrection Lily"
Wednesday, March 11
3 - 4 pm, live on Facebook
Please join us, and other libraries across the US, as we partner with The National Library of Medicine for author Amy Byer Shainman's discussion of her book, Resurrection Lily: The BRCA Gene, Hereditary Cancer & Lifesaving Whispers from the Grandmother I Never Knew: A Memoir. She will be joined by Ellen Matloff, Certified Genetic Counselor. In this powerful program, these two genetic cancer experts will share their story, their knowledge and answer your questions. Watch on our Facebook page or YouTube.
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Hoopla and Libby: Your questions answered
Saturday, March 20
7 - 8 pm
What’s the difference between Hoopla and Libby? Is there a reason to use both? Is my device compatible? Susanna, our tech librarian, will go over FAQs, highlight features, and provide a few tips about two of the ways to download ebooks, audiobooks, and videos for free with your library card. There will be plenty of time for questions. Need help getting started with Hoopla or Libby? Contact Susanna for assistance.
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Environmental Art: Images to awaken our relationship to nature
Wednesday, March 24
7 pm to 8 pm
Join Jonathan Silverman, professor emeritus at St. Michael's College, for this engaging and inspiring look at the connections between art and ecology. In this session, we witness how artists have used their skills, imagination, and commitment to raise ecological awareness. A wide range of 2 and 3- dimensional environmental artist works, ranging from paintings to photographs to site-specific sculpture will illuminate the human “colonizing” of the natural world, spark insight on the resilience necessary to alter our relationship to nature and invite our own creativity and art making to engage in ecojustice.
This program is part of our "Resilient Communities" grant funded by the American Library Association. “Resilient Communities: Libraries Respond to Climate Change” is a pilot program of the American Library Association.”
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Upcoming Library Book Discussions
Join us for one of these book group meetings on Zoom!
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Mystery Book Group
Mon., 3/15
10 am – 11 am
Available at the library
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Book Discussion Group
Thur., 4/1
7:30 pm – 9 pm
Available at the library
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Men's Book Group
Wed., 3/17
7:30 pm – 9 pm
Available at the library
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Kids: DIY Bookmarks
Do you have scraps of paper, bits of yarn and ribbon or cardboard hanging around your house? Create some cute DIY bookmarks to encourage reading for kids. These handmade bookmark ideas will have your readers eager to get to the next chapter! They’re a great way to not only inspire reading but to get in some arts and crafts time as well. Pick up a bookmark kit at the Charlotte Library to jump start some ideas.
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Adults & Teens: Felted Wool Garland
Transform wool roving into a colorful mini felted wool garland or necklace. Kits include wool, felt, thread, needle, and instructions. All you need is a bowl of hot, sudsy water to get started. Kits are available in the vestibule while supplies last beginning March first.
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Getting Vaccinated? Share Your News Safely!
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is now warning people not to post photos of their vaccine cards online, as it could lead to an increase in counterfeit cards and identity theft. Your card has your full name and birthday on it, as well as information about where you got your vaccine. If your social media privacy settings aren’t set high, you may be giving valuable information away for anyone to use.
Tips for sharing vaccine news safely on social media:
Read the full article.
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New, Upcoming, and Featured Titles
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