Author and Wilton resident Susan E. B. Schwartz discusses a medical pioneer and legendary rock climber Hans Kraus tonight at the library at 7 with a discussion about her new book, Into the Unknown: The Remarkable Life of Hans Kraus. Through his innovative medical theories about muscles and fitness and his work with children, Dr. Kraus took the lead on the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. His knowledge of the back brought him to Kennedy's White House during the Camelot years. His skills as a world-class rock climber offer insight into his thriving, courageous personality which is captured by Ms. Schwartz. Ms. Schwartz, herself an avid outdoors person, appreciates the accomplishments of Kraus and brings his life and work as a pioneer of sports medicine to life with a slide presentation. There is no charge for the Visiting Author program. Advance registration is suggested. To register, call 762-3950 or register online.
Library becomes photo galleryThe Wilton Arts Council's seventh annual photography show has its opening reception on Friday, March 10 from 6-7:30 p.m. The Focus '06 Show encompasses traditional and digital photography which is judged in five categories-best of show, professional, amateur, student and youth. The contest judges are Daryl Hawk, international documentary photographer, Paul Wear, digital photographer and 2004 winner of Best of Show and Steve Zoref, president of KEW Photo & Digital in Norwalk. The youth or Junior Division of the show is new this year in memory of Len Freas, who was a vice president of the council and an avid supporter of children being represented in the arts. The exhibit ends on Wednesday, April 12. Library hours are Monday and Friday, 10-6, Tuesday-Thursday 10-7, Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 1-5.
Things to do during vacationThe library has a number of programs planned for the school break next week including crafts, movies and a special read-aloud event. On Monday and Tuesday, March 13 and 14, kids will be able to Create a Spring Craft during library hours. Materials will be supplied by the library; kids just have to bring their own creativity. On Thursday and Friday, March 16 and 17 children will be creating their own St. Patrick's Day crafts again with materials supplied by the library. The four craft days are free of charge and open to kids of all ages.
Splitting up the crafts days is Reel Wednesday at the Library on March 15, a free movie day for kids. Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit will be shown at 10:30 and Zathura will be shown at 2. Children under five must be accompanied by adults. There is no charge for the movies and registration is not required. On Saturday, March 18, the therapy dogs are returning to the library for Read to Rover at 2. Students in grades 1 through 5 will be able to read to a dog for about 20 minutes. The calming nature of the dogs provides a wonderful environment for kids to practice reading out loud. There is no charge for the program. Advance registration is required. Call the library at 762-3950 to register. Beyond the library, the Museum Pass Program is available for families to enjoy more than ten museums around the state. From dinosaurs to whales to historical people and places, the Museum Pass Program provides free or reduced admissions to Discovery Museum, Maritime Aquarium, Dinosaur State Park, Mark Twain House and other engaging explorations. Passes may be reserved for up to one month in advance and are loaned for three-day periods. The Museum Passes are free to library patrons. Patrons are responsible for actual admission fees (if applicable) or any fees or charges beyond those included with the pass (e.g. parking, special exhibit admissions, etc.) at any of the participating museums. For more information, call 762-3950.
March is Young Reader monthThe library is promoting Young Reader month in March to continue to build a strong group of children who love to read and support the library. Anyone who is a member of the Young Readers Club may join the fun on Thursday, March 23 at 5 for the program, All About Books. Library assistant Lesley Keogh explores new books that are coming out that will be available at the library. Free pizza will be served during the event. According to Ms. Keogh, "It's always so much fun seeing the kids light up when I tell them about some new author or book that's about to be released, as if I've broken some secret code for them and they are the first ones on the block to know the good stuff." To become a Young Reader and support the library, a parent simply fills out the Friends donation envelope for $25 per child per year for children up to age 13. The first-time member receives a Wilton Library book bag. All members of the Young Readers Club receive a member card and are entitled to 7-day rental periods for children's DVDs (rather than the customary 2-night rentals). Members also receive reduced fees on special programs. To become a Young Reader and to register for the All About Books program, call 762-3950 ext. 217.