Port Washington Public Library

IMPORTANT UPDATE & Holiday Hours

On Monday, October 12, the Library will be open from 1:00pm – 5:00pm in observation of Columbus Day.

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The Libby app, Kanopy app and Nassau Digital Doorway now require a PIN to access your account. It’s the same PIN you may already use to log into your library account. You will see a message to verify your card and add your PIN. You can set or reset your library account PIN at any time. If you have questions or run into any issues, please call (516) 883-4400.

Halloween On Main

On Saturday, October 31, embark on a scavenger hunt with the Library by finding Halloween symbols on various storefront windows. To begin, download your scavenger hunt card or pick up one at the Library. Once you’ve completed the hunt, claim your prize bag at the Library between 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. For details, visit portwashingtonbid.org/halloween-hunt. Sponsored by the FOL.
FOL Paperback Swap

At this free event, hundreds of patrons of all ages share thousands of books. You do not need to bring a book to take a book. Browsers welcome! Please bring: Gently used adult and teen paperbacks, Any children’s books (paperbacks, hardcovers or boardbooks). Please do not bring: Adult hardcovers, More than 20 books per person, Books with loose pages, broken spines, water damage or mold. Books are accepted ONLY during the event hours in the Lapham Room; please do not leave books outside the Library or in the lobby. For more information, email: fol@pwpl.org.
The first ladies coalition

Join us on Friday, October 9 at 7:00pm for the First Ladies Coalition, A play created and performed by Ginger Grace. First Ladies Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Kennedy, Lady Bird Johnson, and Mary Todd Lincoln time travel to Colleen's Sewing Shop, where they inspire Colleen, a survivor of domestic violence and former inmate, to overcome her past and find her strength. Together, they show how courage and resilience can transform lives. Join us for this special live theater event.

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Latest Newsletter Issue Now Available

The September/October issue of Happenings is out! Discover what's happening at the Library.

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Children’s Halloween Costume Drive

Help make Halloween more affordable and sustainable! Donate clean, gently used children’s costumes and accessories in the Children's Room from September 23 to September 30. Then, stop by from October 9 - 11 to find a free new-to-you costume (while supplies last during Library hours). Donations are appreciated but not required to participate. Also sponsored by Parent Resource Center.
Mason on Main: A Photographic History of Mason Studio 1920-1985

This new local history exhibit, now on view in the Columns Gallery, highlights over 50 years of photography produced by Mason Studio, formerly located at 118 Main Street in Port Washington. Following its 1985 closure, the Library acquired approximately 20,000 photographs taken throughout Mason Studio’s many years in business. These photos are snapshots of life in Port Washington from the 1920s through the 1970s and include individuals, buildings, businesses, and events. This exhibit was made possible through the support of the Friends of the Library. Join us on Monday, September 15 at 2:30 pm for a reception.

Upcoming Events

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Upcoming Events

Adult Events

Oct12

Columbus Day

5:00pm - 11:30pm View Details

Oct13

Cow Neck in the Revolution

The area we now call Port Washington was occupied by the British for seven years during the Revolutionary War. Local families suffered immense hardship: they were forced to quarter enemy troops, had their children pressed into service, and even endured pirate attacks. Some Cow Neck Patriots bravely fought for American freedom while others assisted the revolutionary cause in secret – and some yet remained loyal to the Crown. These stories are explored in Cow Neck in the Revolution, presented in collaboration with the Cow Neck Peninsula Historical Society in celebration of 250 years of American independence. On display in the History Center Annex June through December 2026.

12:00am - 12:00am View Details

Oct13

Hypertension Screenings

Blood Pressure screenings sponsored by St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center.

11:00am - 2:00pm View Details

Oct13

SoundSwap: 'Rapid Transit' Performs Classic Covers and Original Music

Juan Rosado’s ‘Rapid Transit’ is a Long Island-based four-man American Rock / Alternative Country band. Their music captures the essence of rural life and personal relationships, often with a humorous twist. Their unique blend of country and rock, combined with catchy lyrics and soulful performances, are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

7:30pm - 9:00pm View Details

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Children's Events

Oct12

Columbus Day

5:00pm - 11:30pm View Details

Oct13

Cow Neck in the Revolution

12:00am - 12:00am View Details

Oct13

Sing and Swing

Ages 18 months to 5 years with an adult

Interactive stories, rhymes and songs emphasizing early literacy skills and help instill a lifelong love of learning. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. For Port Washington residents only.

9:30am - 10:00am View Details

Oct13

Sing and Swing

Ages 18 months to 5 years with an adult

Interactive stories, rhymes and songs emphasizing early literacy skills and help instill a lifelong love of learning. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. For Port Washington residents only.

10:15am - 10:45am View Details

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Teen Events

Oct12

Columbus Day

5:00pm - 11:30pm View Details

Oct13

Cow Neck in the Revolution

12:00am - 12:00am View Details

Oct15

Taking Charge of the College Admissions and Financial Planning Process

In this presentation, Rob Browne, College Admissions Consultant, of RAB College Consulting and Teresa (Tracy) Young, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® at Sound Private Wealth, will share strategies for developing clear academic, extracurricular, and financial plans. They will also discuss approaches to the college search and application process designed to help reduce stress and promote a more confident, informed experience for both students and their families. Registration begins October 1 for teens in grades 9-12 and parents.

7:00pm - 8:30pm View Details

Oct17

The Great Give Back- Share Kindness One Note at a Time

The Great Give Back is a community service initiative created by the Suffolk County Public Library Directors Association and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System, in conjunction with the Nassau Library System. The mission of The Great Give Back is to provide library patrons throughout New York with opportunities to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. This year PWPL will be partnering with the National Kidney Foundation. The National Kidney Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of everyone effected by kidney disease. Patrons are invited to visit the library on Saturday, October 17, to write notes of encouragement for individuals receiving dialysis treatment. Materials will be available at all services desks. Please return completed cards to a librarian.

9:00am - 5:00pm View Details

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