Hartford Public Library

Before summer ends, have fun with the family at Park Street Library @ the Lyric's back-to-school bash sponsored by RSCO - Greater Hartford Regional School Choice Office. Featuring a giveaway of a free backpack filled with school supplies on a first-come, first-served basis.

Thursday, August 13 | 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Park Street Library @ the Lyric
603 Park Street

Join us at the 2026 Beyond Words!

Beyond Words is HPL's signature annual fundraising event, celebrating the transformative power of libraries.

This special evening highlights the Library’s commitment to literacy, community, and connection. Beyond Words showcases the power of impact—how your support helps us change lives, expand opportunities, and build a stronger Hartford.

Featuring: Norah O'Donnell, New York Times Best-Selling Author & Emmy Award-Winning Journalist.

Beyond Words is a ticketed event. Early bird discounts are available until Monday, August 31, 2026.

Thursday, November 5 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Hartford Marriott Downtown
200 Columbus Boulevard

To learn more and purchase tickets here: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/beyondwords/event/beyondwords2026/

Step into food service with a ServSafe Certification!

Employers are actively seeking certified handlers, managers, and alcohol servers, and this credential puts you at the front of the line. Classes will run until Thursday, September 24.

Tuesdays and Thursdays| times will vary
Downtown Library
500 Main Street
Learn more: https://programs.hplct.org/events?term=servsafe&r=range&start=2026-07-31&end=2026-09-24

It’s never too late to join!

For adults, learn more here: https://hplct.libguides.com/c.php?g=1525314&p=11424144

For children, learn more here: https://hplct.libguides.com/c.php?g=1525314&p=11424138

The challenges end next week on August 15 & 16!

New video:

https://youtube.com/shorts/AbyZM1E89es?is=IIBXatfJdAnEqRyq

Summer Reading Challenge 2026 For adults, learn more here: https://hplct.libguides.com/c.php?g=15...

Get a FREE CompTIA A+ training certificate to jump-start your career in IT.

Testimonial: "My experience with the Hartford Public Library's COMPTIA A+ program is one that I will never forget. I have learned and made so many new connections thanks to the COMPTIA A +program. This program has given me one of the keys to my future by granting me not only the foundational work of tech in the form of class teaching but also in the way of practical real-life learning in the form of internships within the city."

Classes are held on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at West Middle School, 44 Niles Street.

Apply here: https://tap.hplct.org/comptia-certification-program/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTZnM9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFTRm9UQW5LbEJPd0NpQmdRc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHipXEAqVBBo7mCVpcA5TC8Erad0V93SbeJFiHq5OWTCV1L2TqWM_oH9O-ySv_aem_ixgb6MVHVlJu_8ay8HMGFQ

A special screening of Finding Pa, an award-winning short film by filmmaker Enrique Lebrón.

Through a deeply personal journey, the film explores themes of identity, family, belonging, and the search for connection.

Register here: https://programs.hplct.org/event/16898957

Thursday, August 13 | 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Downtown Library
Garmany Hall, Main Floor
500 Main Street

Why buy books when you could borrow from your local Library?

New video alert:

www.youtube.com

Just two more days left!

The Children’s Museum has rolled into HPL's Downtown Library every day until Saturday, August 1, for hands-on fun! Each day, the program will feature different animals for ages 2-8.

Register here: https://programs.hplct.org/events?term=museum+on+the+move&r=range&start=2026-07-29&end=2026-08-05

Friday, July 31 | 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Downtown Library
UConn Classroom 025, Ground Floor
500 Main Street

HPL's Downtown Library was honored to host the inaugural opening event for Hartford Black Pride on Friday, July 24!

The event featured live performances, STD screening, and honored those making significant impacts in the LGBTQ+ community in Hartford. Thank you to Hartford Black Pride for partnering with us and to everyone who attended, making this inaugural celebration such a tremendous success. We look forward to continuing to support programs that bring our community together.

A special lunch with Bridget E. Quinn, HPL's President & CEO!

Last week, students and their families enjoyed a celebratory lunch at HPL's Downtown Library. Students were gifted books to continue our Summer Reading Challenge. To win big prizes like this, sign up for our Summer Reading Challenge today!

Learn more: https://hplct.libguides.com/c.php?g=1525314&p=11424138