Local Authors Join Library Talk

Pelham Public Library patrons will have the chance to meet two local authors during a special evening event scheduled for Tuesday, November 17. The session, titled The Girl’s Guide to Guts, features Chloe Melas and Judy Batalion discussing their new release. Both women are residents of Pelham, making this a locally focused literary gathering.

The event is designed for adults aged 21 and over. It will begin with a comedy performance by Lisa Marie Riley, who performs under the name One Funny Lisa Marie. Following the comedy set, Melas and Batalion will engage in a conversation about their book. Copies of The Girl’s Guide to Guts will be available for purchase and signing during the program. The session runs from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

While registration is recommended for the author talk, walk-ins are permitted. This approach allows for spontaneous attendance while ensuring space is available for registered guests. The library describes the evening as an extra special occasion, noting the presence of two homegrown writers.

The author discussion is one of several programs taking place at the library this month. The November calendar includes a range of activities for different age groups and interests. For adults, options include a defensive driving course, a kefir-making workshop, and a seed saving session with EcoPel.

The defensive driving course is led by instructor Sam Eskander and is scheduled for Saturday, November 7. It runs from 10 AM to 4 PM and costs $35 per participant. Payment is cash only. Completing the course qualifies drivers for an insurance discount and a point reduction on their license. Registration is required for this session.

A seed saving workshop is planned for Thursday, November 12, from 6 to 8 PM. Led by EcoPel, the session teaches participants how to harvest, dry, and store seeds from vegetables, herbs, and native flowers. This program supports the Pelham Library Seed Library. Space and supplies are limited, so early registration is advised. The event takes place in person at the library.

Another hands-on adult program is a kefir-making workshop scheduled for Monday, November 16. Running from 7 to 8 PM, the session explores fermentation traditions and cultural heritage. Participants will learn to make kefir, a fermented milk drink. Each attendee takes home a kefir starter. Registration is required, and space is limited.

For children, the library offers poetry and craft activities. A session on concrete poems is scheduled for Friday, November 20. This program is for ages 5 to 12. Participants will write poems that take the shape of their subject matter. All supplies are provided. The library also hosts a Hanukkah story time and craft session on Tuesday, December 1, for all ages.

The library will be closed on Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27, for Thanksgiving. It reopens on Saturday, November 28, at 10 AM. During the period between November 13 and November 28, the library holds an annual pie poll. Patrons can vote for their favorite pie during this window.

Additional recurring programs include Tai Chi classes with Master Yao-Wah Chan on Tuesdays and Mah Jongg sessions on Mondays and Tuesdays. A book club for science fiction and fantasy readers meets on Thursday, November 19, to discuss This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me by Ilona Andrews. The library also offers a digitizing service on Wednesdays where librarians assist with scanning family photos to USB drives.