
Hands and Needles
Gather for a morning of creativity and conversation! Bring whatever project you are working on — quilting, knitting, embroidery, etc.
The program will meet in the library’s community room, though may meet outside if weather allows. No registration required.
Reach out to alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

LEGO Club
After school LEGO Club happens every Wednesday 2:00 - 3:15 PM from September 3rd through October 8th. Students have the choice every week to work on their own or with others on weekly challenges or their own creations.
Registration for LEGO Club has ended

College Research Fundamentals for HS Seniors
High school seniors - we’re here to help you prepare for the next step of your academic career with this intro to doing academic research in college. Maria Avery, the Community Outreach Manager for UVM Libraries, will guide prospective college students through some essential tips and tricks for doing research in college. She’ll showcase some of the valuable resources that university libraries provide and give advice on how to make the most of your school’s libraries and research tools to help you succeed. No registration required, but email alex@carpentercarse.org with questions.
Library Trustee Meeting
The Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting in the main library.

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. We are in the process of determining what the capacity for this weekly group should be, and while we have reached our current cut-off point for sign-ups, we will discuss possible adjustments so we can consider new participants. If your child is interested in joining the wait list, please contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve a spot.

Saturday Family Playtime
Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us in the library community room every Saturday morning for play time and socializing. Coffee and tea will be provided for adults, and families can browse for books afterwards. Library staff will provide a rotating selection of activities and play themes. No registration required.

Hands and Needles
Gather for a morning of creativity and conversation! Bring whatever project you are working on — quilting, knitting, embroidery, etc.
The program will meet in the library’s community room, though may meet outside if weather allows. No registration required.
Reach out to alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

LEGO Club
After school happens every Wednesday 2:00 - 3:15 PM from September 3rd through October 8th. Students have the choice every week to work on their own or with others on weekly challenges or their own creations.
Registration has ended

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. We are in the process of determining what the capacity for this weekly group should be, and while we have reached our current cut-off point for sign-ups, we will discuss possible adjustments so we can consider new participants. If your child is interested in joining the wait list, please contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve a spot.

Folk Jam: Live Music With SongFarmers of Hinesburg
Do you play an acoustic instrument or just love to sing along to old time, blues, country, and folk music? Come join the SongFarmers during their monthly gathering and participate in this wonderful live music offering. Listeners also welcome. Free and open to the public in the library’s community room, or outdoors as weather allows.
No registration required. Contact alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Saturday Family Playtime
Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us in the library community room every Saturday morning for play time and socializing. Coffee and tea will be provided for adults, and families can browse for books afterwards. Library staff will provide a rotating selection of activities and play themes. No registration required.

Hands and Needles
Gather for a morning of creativity and conversation! Bring whatever project you are working on — quilting, knitting, embroidery, etc.
The program will meet in the library’s community room, though may meet outside if weather allows. No registration required.
Reach out to alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Banned Books Read In
Celebrate Banned Books Week with us. Stop by and hang out in the “Banned Books Cafe” (the Community Room) to protest censorship and learn about how you can fight back. Stay and read for a while, peruse banned books, enjoy a snack, and write a postcard to our representatives voicing your concern over book bans. Participants will receive a FREE audiobook courtesy of Libro.fm. No registration required but email alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Parents and Caregivers Mindfulness Workshop
Caregivers, parents and those who work with children can benefit from centering and awareness-building practices. This workshop features opportunities for quiet and calm through guided meditation and discussion, as well as inclusive support for all families. Take some time to practice managing stress and exploring mindfulness as a tool for self-care in a caring and reflective space. Participants will have the opportunity to share strengths, joys, challenges, and vulnerabilities, and connect with others in caregiving roles to support one another’s well-being. This workshop is led by Jennifer Decker, who is versed in supporting parents, and has lived experience of neurodivergence, and of complex caregiving roles across the lifespan. Registration is required, please email alex@carpentercarse.org or stop by the library to register.

Mystery Book Group
This informal group will meet the second Wednesday of each month to chat about a mystery novel—ranging from cozy to gritty.
Contact alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions or to reserve a copy of the book (as available).

LEGO Club
Students have the choice every week to work on their own or with others on weekly challenges or their own creations.
Registration has ended

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. We are in the process of determining what the capacity for this weekly group should be, and while we have reached our current cut-off point for sign-ups, we will discuss possible adjustments so we can consider new participants. If your child is interested in joining the wait list, please contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve a spot.

STEM Explorers
With Funding from the Vermont Space Grant Consortium, Carpenter-Carse Library is offering a series of monthly after-school programs for students in Kindergarten through grade 4 during the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year. Educator and Mathematical Sciences Director for The Vermont Governor's Institute, Linda Segovia Wise has created a program called “STEM Explorers” that is designed to offer STEM enrichment in a fun and engaging environment. In this playful and curiosity-driven program, students will explore real-world challenges and creative problem solving through different themes. Our goal is for students to discover how STEM is part of everyday life and to give them an opportunity to build confidence in collaborative problem-solving and creative thinking. Contact jen@carpentercarse.org to sign up for one or all four monthly programs.
Session 2: Engineering Challenge - Build It Strong! Friday, October 10th, 3:00-4:15 Can you build a tower with just spaghetti and marshmallows? What makes a bridge sturdy? This month, students take on a fun and messy engineering design challenge, learning about the design process, testing ideas, and working together to build strong structures from everyday materials. Through testing, reflecting, and trying again, they’ll also practice one of the most important STEM skills: resilience. Skills: Engineering design, measurement, collaboration, perseverance. Big Idea: Great engineers try, test, and try again!

Frog and Toad Tea Party Picnic
Join us for a Frog and Toad themed picnic, tea party, and story time! We will also get to do some fun Fall crafts, and hopefully we’ll get to have the whole event outdoors in our new Children’s Garden space! Bring a favorite stuffy or doll to join in on the fun. Our Tea Party Storytimes are designed for children ages 2-6 and their caregivers. Registration is required, and you can email jen@carpentercarse.org to reserve your family’s spot!

Meet Elia the Therapy Dog
Elia the trained therapy dog will be joining us once a month to meet with patrons of all ages. Engaging with a therapy dog has been shown to have many physical and emotional benefits. Stop by to visit with Elia and bring some calm and relaxation to your day, she’d love to meet you! No registration required, but email Alex with questions.
CLOSED for INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S DAY
The library will be closed today in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Craft and Learn: Bats!
Join educator, Jerry Schneider, for a presentation on bats and bat habitats followed by Halloween snacks and crafts. Every participant needs to bring a t-shirt that can be painted on. All other materials will be provided. This event is for children in kindergarten through grade 4, and registration is required.

Middle School Book Club
We invite middle school students who are interested in reading and discussing all kinds of books (chapter books, memoirs, graphic novels) that are generally geared toward students in grades 6-8. Students will receive each month’s book from the library then meet on the third Thursday of the month to engage in a fun discussion, eat snacks, hang out with friends, and decide what to read next! Email jen@carpentercarse.org to reserve your spot and receive all the necessary info to get started in this monthly club!

Library Fundraiser Concert
Local musicians John Penoyar and Jody Albright will share their talents in a fun filled evening of music and light refreshments in support of CCL. Admission is a suggested $10 donation at the door. We’ll also be collecting non-perishable food items for the HCRC Food Shelf. Contact alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Saturday Family Playtime
Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us in the library community room every Saturday morning for play time and socializing. Coffee and tea will be provided for adults, and families can browse for books afterwards. Library staff will provide a rotating selection of activities and play themes. No registration required.

Hands and Needles
Gather for a morning of creativity and conversation! Bring whatever project you are working on — quilting, knitting, embroidery, etc.
The program will meet in the library’s community room, though may meet outside if weather allows. No registration required.
Reach out to alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Stillness and Exuberance for Kids
Stillness and Exuberance for Kids: Four Wednesdays: Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12. 2:00-3:15 pm.
Kids can learn meditation skills to help with stress-reduction, self-regulation and awareness of self and others. This workshop series features games for connection and trust building, and meditation teaching with an approach that includes kids’ natural energy levels. Whether your child is an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert, kids can develop greater confidence and improve social skills through meditation. Each weekly session will begin with fun ice-breakers and snacks. There will be four sessions in order to build skills in an accessible way, and develop friendship and community. This workshop is led by Jennifer Decker, who has extensive experience in schools and youth group settings, and has lived experience of neurodivergence.
Library Trustee Meeting
The Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting in the main library.

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. We are in the process of determining what the capacity for this weekly group should be, and while we have reached our current cut-off point for sign-ups, we will discuss possible adjustments so we can consider new participants. If your child is interested in joining the wait list, please contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve a spot.

Halloween Family Trivia and Potluck
Come on out for a fun and friendly family trivia competition and potluck supper. Bring a dish to share and we’ll provide apple cider and donuts. Costumes are highly encouraged. There will be a prize for the winning trivia team and a prize for best costume! Enrollment is limited and we ask that each team only contain one family please. Email jen@carpentercarse.org to register or stop by the circulation desk.

Saturday Family Playtime
Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us in the library community room every Saturday morning for play time and socializing. Coffee and tea will be provided for adults, and families can browse for books afterwards. Library staff will provide a rotating selection of activities and play themes. No registration required.

Spooky Lantern Crafts
A fun, spooky craft for children in 2nd - 5th grade! Join us for snacks, a not-too-scary read aloud, and creating fairy or haunted house lanterns out of mason jars. Registration is required and you can reserve your spot by emailing jen@carpentercarse.org
We are always accepting donations of snacks for our youth programing; stop by the circulation desk to drop any donations off.

Hands and Needles
Gather for a morning of creativity and conversation! Bring whatever project you are working on — quilting, knitting, embroidery, etc.
The program will meet in the library’s community room, though may meet outside if weather allows. No registration required.
Reach out to alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Stillness and Exuberance for Kids
Stillness and Exuberance for Kids: Four Wednesdays: Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12. 2:00-3:15 pm.
Kids can learn meditation skills to help with stress-reduction, self-regulation and awareness of self and others. This workshop series features games for connection and trust building, and meditation teaching with an approach that includes kids’ natural energy levels. Whether your child is an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert, kids can develop greater confidence and improve social skills through meditation. Each weekly session will begin with fun ice-breakers and snacks. There will be four sessions in order to build skills in an accessible way, and develop friendship and community. This workshop is led by Jennifer Decker, who has extensive experience in schools and youth group settings, and has lived experience of neurodivergence.

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. We are in the process of determining what the capacity for this weekly group should be, and while we have reached our current cut-off point for sign-ups, we will discuss possible adjustments so we can consider new participants. If your child is interested in joining the wait list, please contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve a spot.

Stillness and Exuberance for Kids
Stillness and Exuberance for Kids: Four Wednesdays: Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12. 2:00-3:15 pm.
Kids can learn meditation skills to help with stress-reduction, self-regulation and awareness of self and others. This workshop series features games for connection and trust building, and meditation teaching with an approach that includes kids’ natural energy levels. Whether your child is an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert, kids can develop greater confidence and improve social skills through meditation. Each weekly session will begin with fun ice-breakers and snacks. There will be four sessions in order to build skills in an accessible way, and develop friendship and community. This workshop is led by Jennifer Decker, who has extensive experience in schools and youth group settings, and has lived experience of neurodivergence.

Stillness and Exuberance for Kids
Stillness and Exuberance for Kids: Four Wednesdays: Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12. 2:00-3:15 pm.
Kids can learn meditation skills to help with stress-reduction, self-regulation and awareness of self and others. This workshop series features games for connection and trust building, and meditation teaching with an approach that includes kids’ natural energy levels. Whether your child is an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert, kids can develop greater confidence and improve social skills through meditation. Each weekly session will begin with fun ice-breakers and snacks. There will be four sessions in order to build skills in an accessible way, and develop friendship and community. This workshop is led by Jennifer Decker, who has extensive experience in schools and youth group settings, and has lived experience of neurodivergence.

STEM Explorers
With Funding from the Vermont Space Grant Consortium, Carpenter-Carse Library is offering a series of monthly after-school programs for students in Kindergarten through grade 4 during the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year. Educator and Mathematical Sciences Director for The Vermont Governor's Institute, Linda Segovia Wise has created a program called “STEM Explorers” that is designed to offer STEM enrichment in a fun and engaging environment. In this playful and curiosity-driven program, students will explore real-world challenges and creative problem solving through different themes. Our goal is for students to discover how STEM is part of everyday life and to give them an opportunity to build confidence in collaborative problem-solving and creative thinking. Contact jen@carpentercarse.org to sign up for one or all four monthly programs.
Session 3: Take It to the Limit with Candy Math Friday, November 14th, 3:00-4:15 What happens when you keep cutting something in half... again and again? Will you ever run out of halves? This month, students explore one of the coolest ideas in math - limits. Through hands-on fun with candy rope, paper, or stepping games, they'll test how many times they can split something in half. Skills: Fraction thinking, pattern recognition, early understanding of infinity and limits Big Idea: If you keep cutting in half, you’ll never quite run out—some things can go on forever!
Session 4: Unplugged Coding - Human Robots Friday, December 12th 3:00-4:15 Who needs a screen to code? This unplugged coding session introduces students to the building blocks of computer science through fun and active games. Students will write step-by-step instructions (“code”) for a “human robot” to follow and complete silly obstacle courses or dance moves. Along the way, they'll learn about algorithms, loops, debugging, and teamwork! Skills: Sequencing, logical thinking, collaboration. Big Idea: Coding is just giving clear directions- anyone can learn it!

Countdown to the Holidays - Children's Craft Series
Get ready for the holidays with our after-school programing! Happening every Wednesday from November 19th to December 17th; the first session will focus on creating a countdown calendar full of treats to track the days till your holiday of choice and each consecutive session will be spent crafting handmade gifts for loved ones. To sign up contact jen@carpentercarse.org or see the circulation desk.
Library Trustee Meeting
The Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting in the main library.

Countdown to the Holidays - Children's Craft Series
Get ready for the holidays with our after-school programing! Happening every Wednesday from November 19th to December 17th; the first session will focus on creating a countdown calendar full of treats to track the days till your holiday of choice and each consecutive session will be spent crafting handmade gifts for loved ones. To sign up contact jen@carpentercarse.org or see the circulation desk.

Countdown to the Holidays - Children's Craft Series
Get ready for the holidays with our after-school programing! Happening every Wednesday from November 19th to December 17th; the first session will focus on creating a countdown calendar full of treats to track the days till your holiday of choice and each consecutive session will be spent crafting handmade gifts for loved ones. To sign up contact jen@carpentercarse.org or see the circulation desk.

STEM Explorers
With Funding from the Vermont Space Grant Consortium, Carpenter-Carse Library is offering a series of monthly after-school programs for students in Kindergarten through grade 4 during the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year. Educator and Mathematical Sciences Director for The Vermont Governor's Institute, Linda Segovia Wise has created a program called “STEM Explorers” that is designed to offer STEM enrichment in a fun and engaging environment. In this playful and curiosity-driven program, students will explore real-world challenges and creative problem solving through different themes. Our goal is for students to discover how STEM is part of everyday life and to give them an opportunity to build confidence in collaborative problem-solving and creative thinking. Contact jen@carpentercarse.org to sign up for one or all four monthly programs.
Session 4: Unplugged Coding - Human Robots Friday, December 12th 3:00-4:15 Who needs a screen to code? This unplugged coding session introduces students to the building blocks of computer science through fun and active games. Students will write step-by-step instructions (“code”) for a “human robot” to follow and complete silly obstacle courses or dance moves. Along the way, they'll learn about algorithms, loops, debugging, and teamwork! Skills: Sequencing, logical thinking, collaboration. Big Idea: Coding is just giving clear directions- anyone can learn it!

Countdown to the Holidays - Children's Craft Series
Get ready for the holidays with our after-school programing! Happening every Wednesday from November 19th to December 17th; the first session will focus on creating a countdown calendar full of treats to track the days till your holiday of choice and each consecutive session will be spent crafting handmade gifts for loved ones. To sign up contact jen@carpentercarse.org or see the circulation desk.
Library Trustee Meeting
The Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting in the main library.

Saturday Family Playtime
Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us in the library community room every Saturday morning for play time and socializing. Coffee and tea will be provided for adults, and families can browse for books afterwards. Library staff will provide a rotating selection of activities and play themes. No registration required.

Craft Evening - Making Outdoor Play Food
We’re looking for volunteers who like to let their creative juices flow. Our wonderful new children’s garden is in need of some play props that can live outside. Drop in to help us paint rocks and turn them into colorful play food for our play house. We’ll supply the snacks, drinks, and materials, you supply the time and creativity. No artistic expertise or registration required, but email alex@carpentercarse.org with questions.

Middle School Book Club
We invite middle school students who are interested in reading and discussing all kinds of books (chapter books, memoirs, graphic novels) that are generally geared toward students in grades 6-8. Students will receive each month’s book from the library then meet on the third Thursday of the month to engage in a fun discussion, eat snacks, hang out with friends, and decide what to read next! Email jen@carpentercarse.org to reserve your spot and receive all the necessary info to get started in this monthly club!

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. We are in the process of determining what the capacity for this weekly group should be, and while we have reached our current cut-off point for sign-ups, we will discuss possible adjustments so we can consider new participants. If your child is interested in joining the wait list, please contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve a spot.ot.

LEGO Club
LEGO Club is always a popular program and filled up especially fast this year! Please reach out to jen@carpentercarse.org to place your child on a LEGO Club wait-list or call-list. And we are happy to discuss other program options and events happening at the library this Fall and make sure your child has an opportunity to get involved!

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.

Hands and Needles
Gather for a morning of creativity and conversation! Bring whatever project you are working on — quilting, knitting, embroidery, etc.
The program will meet in the library’s community room, though may meet outside if weather allows. No registration required.
Reach out to alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.
Memorial Children’s Garden Dedication
The entire community is invited to celebrate our new Children’s Garden on the west side of the library where we will dedicate this space in memory of longtime educator and community member Shelley Henson. Carpenter-Carse Library was awarded a SCHIP grant this year to create an outdoor gathering and play space for families and children. In addition to these grant funds, our library has received generous donations from community members in Shelley’s name, which we have used to further enhance this space and purchase reading materials for the children’s library. On September 13th we will gather outdoors at the library to place a plaque and remember Shelley’s contributions to our early childhood community. Please also join us for refreshments and child friendly activities.

STEM Explorers
With Funding from the Vermont Space Grant Consortium, Carpenter-Carse Library is offering a series of monthly after-school programs for students in Kindergarten through grade 4 during the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year. Educator and Mathematical Sciences Director for The Vermont Governor's Institute, Linda Segovia Wise has created a program called “STEM Explorers” that is designed to offer STEM enrichment in a fun and engaging environment. In this playful and curiosity-driven program, students will explore real-world challenges and creative problem solving through different themes. Our goal is for students to discover how STEM is part of everyday life and to give them an opportunity to build confidence in collaborative problem-solving and creative thinking. Contact jen@carpentercarse.org to sign up for one or all four monthly programs.
Session 1: Fibonacci in Nature - The Math of Beauty Friday, September 12th, 3:00-4:15 Did you know that pine cones, sunflowers, and seashells follow a secret math pattern? In this session, students will explore the Fibonacci sequence, a pattern that appears in spirals, petals, and more. Through nature walks, drawing spirals, and hands-on activities with natural objects, students will learn how math lives in the world around us- and how beautiful it can be!Skills: Pattern recognition, number sense, observation, art + math integration Big Idea: Math is not just numbers- it’s patterns, nature, and beauty!
Session 2: Engineering Challenge - Build It Strong! Friday, October 10th, 3:00-4:15 Can you build a tower with just spaghetti and marshmallows? What makes a bridge sturdy? This month, students take on a fun and messy engineering design challenge, learning about the design process, testing ideas, and working together to build strong structures from everyday materials. Through testing, reflecting, and trying again, they’ll also practice one of the most important STEM skills: resilience. Skills: Engineering design, measurement, collaboration, perseverance. Big Idea: Great engineers try, test, and try again!
Session 3: Take It to the Limit with Candy Math Friday, November 14th, 3:00-4:15 What happens when you keep cutting something in half... again and again? Will you ever run out of halves? This month, students explore one of the coolest ideas in math - limits. Through hands-on fun with candy rope, paper, or stepping games, they'll test how many times they can split something in half. Skills: Fraction thinking, pattern recognition, early understanding of infinity and limits Big Idea: If you keep cutting in half, you’ll never quite run out—some things can go on forever!
Session 4: Unplugged Coding - Human Robots Friday, December 12th 3:00-4:15 Who needs a screen to code? This unplugged coding session introduces students to the building blocks of computer science through fun and active games. Students will write step-by-step instructions (“code”) for a “human robot” to follow and complete silly obstacle courses or dance moves. Along the way, they'll learn about algorithms, loops, debugging, and teamwork! Skills: Sequencing, logical thinking, collaboration. Big Idea: Coding is just giving clear directions- anyone can learn it!

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. We are in the process of determining what the capacity for this weekly group should be, and while we have reached our current cut-off point for sign-ups, we will discuss possible adjustments so we can consider new participants. If your child is interested in joining the wait list, please contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve a spot.

Library Table at Trillium Hill Farm NOFA Pizza Social
If you are not quite ready to let go of summer, make it last a bit longer by joining us at the NOFA Pizza Social at Trillium Hill Farm in Hinesburg. We will be set up from 5-6:30 p.m. with library information and activities. Stop by our table and say hello!
For more information about the Social and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.nofavt.org/events/trillium-hill-farm-pizza-social

LEGO Club
LEGO Club is always a popular program and filled up especially fast this year! Please reach out to jen@carpentercarse.org to place your child on a LEGO Club wait-list or call-list. And we are happy to discuss other program options and events happening at the library this Fall and make sure your child has an opportunity to get involved!

Mystery Book Group
This informal group will meet the second Wednesday of each month to chat about a mystery novel—ranging from cozy to gritty.
Contact alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions or to reserve a copy of the book (as available).

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Health Literacy Resources for Seniors
Where can you find accurate and reliable health information online? And how can you spot potentially harmful misinformation? It’s becoming increasingly difficult in today’s online world to know which sources of health information to trust. Maria Avery, the Community Outreach Manager for UVM Libraries, is here to help. Maria will show us how to recognize trustworthy sources of information and guide us through some of the valuable online resources that UVM Libraries provide to our community. No registration required, but email alex@carpentercarse.org with questions.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.

Hands and Needles
Gather for a morning of creativity and conversation! Bring whatever project you are working on — quilting, knitting, embroidery, etc.
The program will meet in the library’s community room, though may meet outside if weather allows. No registration required.
Reach out to alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Saturday Family Playtime
Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us in the library community room every Saturday morning for play time and socializing. Coffee and tea will be provided for adults, and families can browse for books afterwards. Library staff will provide a rotating selection of activities and play themes. No registration required.

Folk Jam: Live Music With SongFarmers of Hinesburg
Do you play an acoustic instrument or just love to sing along to old time, blues, country, and folk music? Come join the SongFarmers during their monthly gathering and participate in this wonderful live music offering. Listeners also welcome. Free and open to the public in the library’s community room, or outdoors as weather allows.
No registration required. Contact alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions.

Dungeons and Dragons Club
Each week library volunteers work with students in grades 4-8 in learning the basics of Dungeons and Dragons, including character creation, understanding game mechanics, and how to work together to create and play in their own campaigns. The program also provides a space for these kids to form their own groups, giving them the tools and confidence to continue playing and developing their own adventures together. Beginners and experienced players are welcome to contact jen@carpentercarse to reserve your spot.

Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity Info Session
Join us to learn more about Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity’s upcoming homes in Hinesburg! Learn more about the program and get details of the application process. Volunteers are also needed. Learn about volunteer opportunities and how you can get involved. No registration required but email alex@carpentercarse.org with any questions. More info is available at www.vermonthabitat.org.

LEGO Club
After school LEGO Club is back! Students in grades K-4 are invited to sign up for this fun and educational program that will happen every Wednesday 2:00 - 3:15 PM from September 3rd through October 8th. Students have the choice every week to work on their own or with others on weekly challenges or their own creations. To reserve a spot for your child in LEGO Club, please call us at 482-2878, email jen@carpentercarse.org, or visit the circulation desk. We hope you can join us for LEGOs, friends, and fun!

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Library Closed for Labor Day
The library is closed today in observance of Labor Day. Have a great long weekend!

Saturday Family Playtime
Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us in the library community room every Saturday morning for play time and socializing. Coffee and tea will be provided for adults, and families can browse for books afterwards. Library staff will provide a rotating selection of activities and play themes. No registration required.
Library Trustee Meeting
The Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting in the main library.

Weekly Storytime
Join the fun and learning on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM for picture books, songs, movement, and rhymes that are designed to promote early language, fine motor, and pre-literacy skills in a friendly environment! Each week we will finish up Storytime with snacks, coffee for the adults, a simple craft or sensory activity, and book browsing. Storytime is designed for babies, toddlers, and preschool/kindergarten aged children and their caregivers, and no registration is required.

Author Talk - Henriette Lazaridis
Boston based author and Middlebury College graduate, Henriette Lazaridis, will join us to talk about the writing of her second, highly acclaimed novel, TERRA NOVA.
A lifelong fascination with explorer Robert Falcon Scott led her to write TERRA NOVA about two fictional Antarctic explorers in 1910 and the woman who loves them both. The New York Times called it "ingenious" and "provocative". Her talk will focus on how she came to write TERRA NOVA, starting from her childhood fascination with Scott and ending—after the publication of the novel—with a month-long trip to Antarctica that included a rare opportunity to stand inside Scott’s hut. Henriette will share photos of her adventures and take us inside the craft of writing and the book that came out of the process. We’ll have a few extra copies of TERRA NOVA available at the library during the month of August for patrons to check out. No registration required but email Alex with questions.

Senior Meetup
Do you remember rotary phones? Cigarette smoke in diners? Bike riding without helmets? The Ed Sullivan Show? 8-Track Tapes? Then this meetup is for you. Come gather and talk, schmooze and kvetch, share and laugh with other seniors. Coffee and tea will be provided. No registration required.