Events at the Library
Below is a list of programs for children and adults, scheduled to take place in the library's Ottinger Room. All events are free and open to the public. Registration is not required unless otherwise noted. Additional programs for children and ongoing exhibitions can be found here:
CHILDREN / January 9
Early American Corn Husk Dolls
Did you ever wonder what toys the early American children enjoyed at their playtime? Join 2 Hands 2 Learn to craft a homespun action figure out of a corn husks. We will talk about the early crafts and make a doll for you to take home. This program is good for children of all ages as long as you can tie a knot or have your parent stay to help you. Registration required. Sign up in person or call (914-271-6612) during library hours. Saturday, January 9, 11:00 a.m.
THEATRE / January 24
Pardon Me for Living: A Biting Comedy
Playwright and actor Staci Swedeen recounts her true story about an encounter with a rabid raccoon. Part Woody Allen, part Stephen King, Pardon Me for Living is a dark, hilarious and heartbreaking journey into the human condition. This one-woman play is written and performed by Staci Swedeen and directed by Yvonne Conybeare. One performance only; free and open to the public. Sunday, January 24, 2:00 p.m.
CHILDREN / January 30
Toddlers’ Songtime with Delores JiJi
It’s happening at the Croton Free Library: rhyme, rhythm and sound in motion with musician and educator Delores JiJi! This program for young children is full of music, fingerplays and dancing. Children ages 2 to 6, with caregiver. Saturday, January 30, 11:00 a.m.
FAMILY YOGA / February 6
Touch My Heart Yoga with Kristy Cohen
Moms, dads, teens, toddlers, kids and grannies – bring the entire family along for a boost of calm, positive energy. Come with your imagination and go home with yoga inspiration. The class directs the focus toward self-awareness though gentle movement and traditional postures. Yoga develops an appreciation for the body and respect for self and others in a noncompetitive environment. For all ages. Registration required; sign up in person or by phone (914-271-6612). Wear comfortable clothing. Saturday, February 6, 11:00 a.m.
CHILDREN’S THEATRE / February 7
Singing Harp Presents “The Golden Bird”
The Singing Harp theatre troupe presents “The Golden Bird,” bringing this wondrous tale from the Brothers Grimm to life through an adaptation (with music) by Alyssa Reit. Directed by Terrence Montgomery and featuring Lisa Wenzel and Bliss Wood, the professional performance is open to the general public. Two simultaneous acting and story exploration workshops precede the show, one for children grades 1 and up, and one for adults. (This program is hosted by the Croton Free Library in conjunction with the Westchester Library System. It is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Rudyard and Emanuella Reimss Memorial Fund of the Westchester Community Foundation.) Sunday, February 7, Workshops, 2:00 to 2:45 p.m., Performance, 3:00 p.m.
DOCUMENTARY SCREENING / February 28
“Before They Die!” A Film Chronicling the Tulsa Race Riot
The Croton Free Library is proud to host the screening of “Before They Die,” which brings to light one of the darkest days in 20th century history for African Americans. On May 31, 1921 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, America’s most prosperous Black community, Greenwood, was bombed, looted and destroyed in under 18 hours. The film explores the recollections of a diminishing group of survivors of the Tulsa Race Riot, and walks with them as they pursue simple justice. One of those litigants, the esteemed 95-year-old Westchester resident Dr. Olivia Hooker, joins us to answer questions after the screening. Sponsors of the event include The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), Clunie Branch of Westchester (Marion C. Madison, president); the Croton Friends of History; the Croton Free Library. Sunday, February 28, 2:00 p.m.
Exhibitions
OTTINGER ROOM / Croton Portraits
Croton Portraits, an exhibition of photographs by Thomas Kristich will be in the Ottinger Room through the end of February. Opening reception information to come.
MAIN ROOM / Valentines
An exhibit of vintage valentines, from the 1800s to the 1940s, plus valentine-inspired artwork and posters and tips on how to make your own.
