MONTICELLO – It’s another busy month ahead at The Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library, with new adult programs in March (in addition to recurring programs):

Screening of the Documentary 'The Librarians' – in collaboration with the Ramapo Catskill Library System

The Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS) has obtained special permission to hold screenings of the award-winning, critically-acclaimed 2025 documentary The Librarians, which chronicles the efforts of courageous public and school librarians nationwide resisting censorship and book bans and defending the First Amendment. Join for the first of two EBCPL screenings on Wednesday, March 4 at 6:00pm in the Robert D. Norris Community Room. Run time of the film is 1 hour, 30 minutes, followed by a panel discussion with library professionals. Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/15936959.

“Tales Well Told: The Bedquilt” Featuring Professional Actress Michèle LaRue

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library presents “The Bedquilt” on Thursday, March 5th, at 5:30 PM, featuring professional actress Michèle LaRue. This engaging program features two American stories that celebrate quilting as a means of community.

Dorothy Canfield Fisher’s “The Bedquilt” follows Aunt Mehetabel, an overlooked elderly woman who gains admiration and self-respect through her quilting skills. Written in 1906, “The Bedquilt” is introduced by the cheerful narrative “A Quilting Bee in Our Village,” written by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman eight years prior. In Freeman’s village, delightful food, lively gossip, and engaging games contribute to a successful quilting bee—sewing is merely the beginning.

LaRue first showcased “The Bedquilt” many years ago in Victorian Cape May, New Jersey under the guidance of Warren Kliewer, the producing artistic director of The East Lynne Company. She has presented the program two times at the renowned International Quilt Show and Conference organized by the American Quilter’s Society. Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/15302932.

“Speaking in Graphite”- A Community Art Exhibit Featuring John Tomlinson

The Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library is proud to present the next installment of our Community Art Exhibit series: “Speaking in Graphite”, featuring local artist John Tomlinson. Based in Barryville, NY, Tomlinson is a New England-born artist whose career spans studio practice, teaching, and exhibitions. After three years in the U.S. Army, Tomlinson taught drawing at Parsons School of Design, the National Academy of Art, and Marlboro College in Vermont, retiring in 2013. In 1998, he and his artist wife, Daria Dorosh, relocated to Barryville, NY, where they established a studio and continued their artistic endeavors, including several exhibitions at the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance.

Opening Reception: Saturday, March 7th at 1 PM in the Robert D. Norris Community Room

Exhibit Viewing: March 7th—April 18th 

Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/16378365

How to Use Smartphones for Adults

Do you have a smartphone but aren’t quite sure how to use all its features? Join us for a helpful, hands-on class designed to teach adults the basics of using their smartphones with confidence. This class is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to build their comfort and skills with everyday smartphone use. 

Thursday, March 12th 6 PM in the Robert D. Norris Community Room

Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/16208211

Organizing with Jamie Novak - "De-Clutter Like You Are Moving: learn the insider secrets"

Join virtually via Zoom for the second session in our Keep This, Toss That: De-Cluttering and Organizing three-part series. This month’s topic is “De-Clutter Like You Are Moving: learn the insider secrets.” Join expert organizer Jamie Novak in an upbeat program to learn practical steps to simplify your life by only keeping what you use and love. Expect fun ideas, a judgment-free atmosphere, and moments of realization. Let’s get organized in 2026!

Please note that the third session will be held in May. 

Tuesday, March 17th 6 PM, Virtually via Zoom. Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/16252617.

Exploring the History of Alexander Hamilton and the Schuyler Sisters with Rick Feingold

Presenter Richard Feingold explores the lives of the Schuyler Sisters and Alexander Hamilton. The event features readings of the heartfelt letters Hamilton sent to Elizabeth Schuyler during their courtship and includes a mix of lecture and songs from the acclaimed show. This will be set in Albany where the Schuyler family lived. 

Thursday, March 26th 6 PM in the Robert D. Norris Community Room. 

Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/16387023.

Virtual Author Talks through the Library Speakers’ Consortium

Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Michael Perry

Join us in conversation with New York Times bestselling author, humorist, singer/songwriter, and amateur snowplow driver, Michael Perry. His collection of genre-spanning works encapsulates the experiences and the magic of rural town communities and the everyday people who reside in them. Register today to hear more about Perry’s “reflective roughneck” takes on life in Middle America through his expansive collection of stories. 

Wednesday, March 4th 2 PM via the Library Speakers’ Consortium Website. 

Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/16390333.

Book Portals and Journeys of Literary Magic with Kate Quinn

You’re invited to join us for a conversation with acclaimed author Kate Quinn about her latest fantastical work, The Astral Library, which poses the question: Have you ever wished you could live inside a book? 

Welcome to the Astral Library, where books are not just objects, but doors to new worlds, new lives, and new futures. Register now to hear more about The Astral Library, crafted for all bookworms and lovers of literature. 

Thursday, March 12th 7 PM via the Library Speakers’ Consortium Website. 

Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/16390677.

America’s Failed Response to the Opioid Crisis with Author Shoshana Walter

Join us for a special conversation between award-winning journalist Shoshana Walter and bestselling and award-winning author Barbara Kingsolver as they chat about Walter’s book Rehab: An American Scandal. In this work, Walter, a Pulitzer finalist, exposes the country’s failed response to the opioid crisis, and the malfeasance, corruption, and snake oil which blight the drug rehabilitation industry. Be sure to register now to participate in this urgent conversation and learn insight on how we might fix the system to save lives. 

Tuesday, March 24th 2 PM via the Library Speakers’ Consortium Website. 

Library Calendar Link: https://ebcpl.libcal.com/event/16390709.

Please call (845) 794-4660 ext. 9 for more information.