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.

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.

Join us this summer for our 2026 Concert Series at the Sousa Bandshell in Sunset Park. All Concerts begin a 3:00pm and registration is required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

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The Library is proud to announce the return of our popular Manhasset Bay Boat Tours, which are generously sponsored by the Library’s Nautical Advisory Council. There will be a limited number of seats available by lottery for tours. Spots are limited to Port Washington cardholders or residents.  

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The Monfort Cemetery contains approximately 153 burials of some of Port Washington’s earliest settlers and their descendants, including several Patriots of the American Revolution. Recently, the gravestones at the Monfort Cemetery have undergone a major restoration. In this lecture, Ross Lumpkin, Town Historian for the Town of North Hempstead, will review what has been accomplished in the last few years with special attention to the Patriots who are interred in our historic burying grounds. These markers have stories to tell that shed light on what life was like in North Hempstead 250 years ago. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

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

Read Now

Mark your calendars for PWPL's Summer Reading Club! Kids registration opens on July 6, while registration for our adult and teen reading programs opens on June 22. Be sure to stop by any of our service desks to snag a sign-up prize (while supplies last). Please note our summer reading programs are only available to Port Washington residents. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Click HERE to register for summer reading!