On Saturday, Oct. 19 at 2 p.m., Culinary Historian Peter G. Rose will provide a fascinating overview of our favorite confection: chocolate! She will describe 17th century trade by the Hudson Valley’s Dutch settlers; chocolate manufacturing developments throughout the 18th and 19th centuries; and interesting tidbits about the current chocolate market. Recipes and chocolate samples will be shared. Ms. Rose has lectured widely and has authored nine books on the Dutch influence in America and Hudson Valley food. She will have copies available for sale and signing. Please register online, by phone or in person.
Halloween
If you’re looking for fiendishly fun (and free) Halloween-themed activities, look no further than your friendly local library. We’ve planned several events to get into the spirit, so to speak, and there’s something for everyone:
• Friday, Oct. 25: teens and adults must work together to solve puzzles and find clues before time runs out as they strive to “Escape the House on the Hill!” Please register for either the 4 p.m. or 6 p.m. session.
• Tuesday, Oct. 29: All ages are welcome to experience our “Halloween Craft Graveyard” from 6:30 to 8 p.m., featuring a variety of seasonal craft supplies. This casual and creative gathering is for families, groups of friends – anyone – with snacks and Halloween music enhancing the seasonal mood. Replicate one of our projects, or devise something totally unique! Please register online, by phone or in person.
• Wednesday, Oct. 30: Tweens and teens are invited to a “Halloween Party” just for them! Come at 6 p.m. dressed in your best costume and ready to usher in Halloween with creepy snacks and terrifying activities for a scary good time. Please register online, by phone or in person.
• Thursday, Oct. 31: Children ages 19 months and up and their caregivers are invited to a “Not-So-Spooky Costume Party and Storytime” at 10:30 a.m., complete with lively songs, stories, and dancing. We’ll conclude our party with a rousing costume parade through the library. Then at 6 p.m., we’ll screen Stanley Kubrick’s classic freight-fest, “The Shining,” starring Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall. We dare you to hold onto your popcorn. Rated R.
Bilingual storytime
Stories, songs and rhymes in both Arabic and English will be presented on Sat. Oct. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Children will also make a craft to take home. This family program is geared for children up to age 6, plus their caregivers.
— Luanne Nicholson