May programs at the Waterbury Public Library
April 24, 2023 | By Judi Byron Here are some highlights of free programs happening at the Waterbury Public Library in May.
Be sure to check the library's website, waterburypubliclibrary.com, for more details and complete schedules of children’s and adult programs. Any schedule updates will be noted in the online information.
Tuesdays, May 2 - June 13: Qi Gong for Vitality & Peace
Wake up your qi (pronounced “chee”) in this six-week series, Qi Gong for Vitality & Peace, scheduled for Tuesdays 10-11 a.m. in the library’s garden (or indoors weather requires). Dates are May 2 through June 13 (no class on May 23). This ancient 4,000-year-old Chinese practice has been gaining popularity in the West. Gentle movements combined with breath (qi) and intention can be a powerful reservoir for change. Wear comfortable clothing. Led by Judi Byron. Free. Email to reserve a spot. judi@waterburypubliclibrary.com.
May 7: Friends of the Waterbury Public Library’s Annual Tea
Linda Radtke performs accompanied by pianist David Gibson. Courtesy photo
Educator, singer and historian Linda Radtke performs songs from the women's suffrage era at the library friends' annual tea on May 7. Courtesy photo
On Sunday, May 7, at 2 p.m., the Friends of the Waterbury Public Library hold their annual tea in the Steele Community Room and welcome singer, performer, educator and historian Linda Radtke for a presentation. Radtke taught English for three decades, produces the Choral Hour program on Vermont Public, and is a classically trained singer. In this program, she will present “From the Parlor to the Polling Place: Stories and Songs from the Suffragists” made possible by the Vermont Humanities Council. In period dress with a mix of songs and a bit of history, Radtke celebrates the centennial of the passage of the 19th Amendment, specifically highlighting the decades-long persistence of Vermonters, both women and men. Radtke also traces the movement’s alignment with other social justice initiatives such as temperance, safe labor conditions, wage equity, peace and children’s welfare. Accompanied by pianist David Gibson, Radtke’s songs and stories highlight Vermonters’ efforts from 1840-1921 as they lobbied in churches, at “parlor meetings,” town halls and at the State House for total enfranchisement. The free program will include refreshments.
May 18: ‘Tell Your Own Story!’ obituary workshop with author James R. Hagerty
Wall Street Journal writer and book author James R. Hagerty. Courtesy photo
On Thursday, May 18, at 6 p.m., Bridgeside Books and the Waterbury Historical Society along with the library present the workshop “Tell your Own Story!” with award-winning journalist and veteran obituary writer James R. Hagerty. The longtime Wall Street Journal obit writer is the author of “Yours Truly: An Obituary Writer’s Guide to Telling Your Story,” a surprisingly upbeat, heartfelt book about a serious subject.
Hagerty shares his skill with honesty and humor with the message that no one knows your story like you do and there is no better time to start documenting it (in whatever format you choose) than now. In this fun, informative and inspiring workshop Hagerty will “show and tell” the essentials of crafting your own obituary. What if you don’t think of yourself as a writer? Few do. Hagerty draws on his vast experience of writing more than 1,000 obituaries in his career and offers up tips to tell your own story. No matter your age or your health, the exercise encourages you to take inventory of your life. It may even change your life. And you get the last word.
Judi Byron is the Waterbury Public Library’s adult program librarian. Reach her at 802-244-7036 or judi@waterburypubliclibrary.com