Port Washington Public Library

Latest Newsletter Issue Now Available

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

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America 250th Anniversary

Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the USA with the Port Washington Public Library as we not only recognize this important semi quincentennial founding of the United States of America, but also explore topics of freedom and democracy that are part of our shared American history. Throughout this year, the Library has organized a wide variety of programs and activities to commemorate the celebration as well as recommended reading and watch lists that have also been added to our America 250 webpage. A new a new local history exhibit, Cow Neck in the Revolution, is also on display in the History Center Annex from June through December 2026.

Click here for more information.
That’s Amore! A Musical Tribute to Harry Warren

Join us for a special musical performance of That's Amore!, a tribute to Harry Warren (aka Mr. Hollywood Musical), created and performed by Bob Spiotto. Mr. Spiotto will be accompanied on piano and his performance will include such memorable songs as Lullaby of Broadway, Shuffle Off to Buffalo, Chattanooga Choo Choo, Jeepers Creepers, I Only Have Eyes For You, We're In the Money, 42nd Street, and That's Amore! just to name a few. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Click here for more information.
Pete Fornatale: Rock Radio Revolutionary

Pete Fornatale (1945-2012) was a longtime Port Washington resident and FM radio pioneer known for his eclectic music taste, insightful interviews with artists, and outspoken but measured commentary on the zeitgeist of the day. Over his nearly 50-year career as a DJ at New York stations WFUV, WNEW, and K-Rock, he inspired countless artists, industry players, and radio listeners. An exhibit of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia celebrating Pete’s life, work, and far-reaching influence is now on display in the History Center Annex.
Jonathan Butterick – “Everything Must Go”

On view in The Adler Gallery from May 1 - July 1. Reception: Saturday, June 13 at 2:00 p.m.

Jonathan Butterick is a painter who works from his own photographs, creating acrylic gouache pieces on paper that act as small, luminous “windows” into overlooked moments. His work highlights saturated color, theatrical light, and quiet, human traces within dense, layered environments. With a background in printmaking, he uses flat shapes, bold edges, and layered color that are often enhanced with fluorescent and glow-in-the-dark pigments that shift under different lighting. Balancing memory and invention, his paintings aim to preserve fleeting places and evoke a sense of wonder in the everyday.
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.
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Upcoming Events

Herb of the Month

Stop by the South Wing to pick up this month’s featured herb. Supplies are limited, so come early! No registration required.

Sponsored by the Health Advisory Council.

9:00am - 9:00pm View Details

May4

Books for Dessert

10:30am - 11:45am View Details

May4

Books for Dessert

10:30am - 11:45am View Details

May4

Chair Yoga 12:30 class

Chair Yoga classes with certified instructor Beth Lipset. Free to Port Washington residents. Classes start January 26 and run through June 1 (no class on February 16, April 6, and May 11, 25).

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and is required.

Kindly register for either the 12:30 PM or the 1:45 PM class, not both, so we can ensure space for as many patrons as possible. Thank you for your consideration!

Sponsored by the Health Advisory Council.

*EXERCISE WAIVER

12:30pm - 1:15pm View Details

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A Time For Kids- Baby Start

Ages 3 months to 17 months

Join Ms. Karen as we introduce our littlest learners to the wonderful world of library programs. Activities include music, movement, fine and gross motor development and circle time. Focus is on early literacy, early language development and socialization. Registration required.

10:00am - 10:30am View Details

May4

A Time For Kids

Ms. Karen presents educational activities, movement, music and a craft. For children ages 18 months to 5 years with an adult. Registration required.

Please note: each date is a separate registration.

10:45am - 11:30am View Details

May4

RESCHEDULED-- Turning Pages Book Club

RESCHEDULED: NEW DATE IS MAY 11

Grades 2 & 3

Join us for our early chapter book club, where we’ll read and discuss a fun story. After our chat, we’ll dive into a hands-on activity that ties into the books. Registration required for each session. Register April 13. Pick up a copy of the book in the Children's Room.

This month's selection: Legends of Lotus Island: The Guardian Test by Christina Soontornvat

4:00pm - 5:00pm View Details

May4

ESOL Homework Help Program 2026

Elementary or Middle School Homework Help

The Port Washington Public Library ESOL Department offers a Homework Help Program where high-achieving high school volunteers tutor students.

Day: Mondays
Time: 4:30 PM–6:00 PM
Location: Hagedorn Meeting Room

For more information, please contact:

Paola Diaz: diazp@pwpl.org
Haydee Buitron: buitronh@pwpl.org

4:30pm - 6:00pm View Details

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Teen Events

May4

May the 4th / Lego Star Wars Gaming

Teen is grades 7-12 are invited to join us and play LEGO Star Wars Switch games to celebrate May the 4th.

5:30pm - 7:00pm View Details

May5

Button Making

Come in and learn how to make buttons for any occasion!

Our button machine makes two different button sizes, 1 inch and 1.5 inch.

Registration begins April 28th. All abilities are welcome, but we do ask that participants under the age of 11 be accompanied by an adult.

4:00pm - 5:00pm View Details

May6

Bedazzle Razzle Dazzle

Unleash your inner artist in this exciting workshop experience! Dive into the sparkling world of bedazzling, where rhinestones turn ordinary items into extraordinary treasures. Get ready to sparkle, shine, and celebrate your one-of-a-kind style! Registration begins April 15.

3:45pm - 4:45pm View Details

May6