We live in a wonderful area of the country where so much of our nation’s history occurred.  This fall you have a great opportunity to hear about a variety of historical events—all for free at your Cecil County Public Library!  Here’s a brief rundown of what’s in store for the next two months:

The War of 1812 was fought in our own backyards. In fact, some Cecil County residents are still finding musket balls on their property! Come to the Elkton Central Library on September 15th at 7 pm, when author David Healey will describe The War of 1812 on the Upper Chesapeake.

There aren’t too many boundaries that have more history, geography and human impacts than the Mason-Dixon Line.  On September 20th at 6:30 pm at the Chesapeake City Branch, author Bill Ecenbarger will regale us with some of the many stories he gathered while researching his book, Walkin’ the Line.

Made up of Delaware and portions of Virginia and Maryland (including part of Cecil County), the cleverly-named Delmarva Peninsula is a unique region with a quirky history. David Healey, author of Delmarva Legends and Lore, will be on hand at three branches to introduce us to some interesting historical characters. (North East Branch September 21st, Cecilton Branch October 12th, and Chesapeake City Branch October 25th)

It’s hard to believe, but in the mid-1800s the Octoraro Branch Railroad was a major influence in the “village” of Rising Sun. On September 29th at the Rising Sun Branch, historian Mike Dixon will share photos and tell us what the town was like during the lifespan of the Octoraro Branch.

Did you ever get the feeling that your furniture has a mind of its own?  Maybe you have a ghost…! On October 19th at the Perryville Branch, local rare books and antiques dealer, John Klisavage, will share historical stories of ghosts, Haunted Objects and local hauntings.

If you’re mainly interested in your own family history there are a couple of programs you won’t want to miss: On September 18th at the North East Branch, Mike Dixon will present information on how to preserve old family photos and relics in Saving Family Treasures.  Also at the North East Branch on October 23rd, become one of the Genealogy Detectives and exchange ideas on how to research family history with others who are interested in genealogy.

Whatever your background, you’re sure to find an historical program to interest you this fall at the library. What local history interests you?

For me, September has always brought to mind cooler temperatures and the long-awaited start of fall, but now there is something else to look forward to – new programs for children at CCPL!

We offer programs for each developmental stage in your child’s life.  Programs like Hello Baby and Baby Steps are designed to introduce our youngest library patrons to the enjoyment of reading, rhymes and music, while also providing a relaxing environment in which to bond with their caregivers.  Our Movers & Groovers program is tailored to those active toddler years – we’ll still read stories, but we’ll also clap, bounce, march and stomp (and you’ll get just as much exercise as your little one!) And On My Own for 3½ – 5 year olds is the perfect transitional program to foster your child’s independence. They’ll read, sing, dance and play as they learn school readiness skills – all while you kick back and relax with a book! (Don’t worry, you’ll join them for the craft at the end of the program.)

The fun doesn’t stop once your children are in school! We offer fun and engaging programs to fit every interest.  Do you have a young nature lover in your house?  Sign up for Backyard Birds at Elkton, Eco-Kids at Chesapeake City, or Greenfingers Garden Club at North East.  Perhaps you’ve got a future architect or engineer on your hands? Check out Legos in the Library at Perryville or Sink or Float at Cecilton.  Have a child who just can’t stop reading?  Try Yakkin’ N’ Snackin’, a book discussion group just for kids in grades 4 & 5 – itwill be offered at most branches during the fall.  As an added bonus, many of these programs happen on Wednesday afternoons.  What better way to fill that school-lets-out-early-time than with a valuable visit to the library?

Later in the fall, keep an eye out for programs designed to get you and your children into the spooky spirit!  BOO!

Click here for a copy of the Library Link and check out the wide variety of children’s programs we have available this fall.  The dates and times for these programs vary at each branch. Remember to register to reserve your spot! You can register by calling or stopping by your local branch – our library staff would love to help you find just the right program for your child!

What library events or programs have you attended with your children? Tell us what you thought!