September Adult Programs

September at Hughes Library offers a wealth of adult activities for the curious mind! Dive into our diverse lineup featuring engaging book discussions, essential tech workshops, and eye-opening finance talks. Don’t miss our fascinating paranormal investigation with Eric Mintel, where you can explore the unknown. With so much to discover, there’s something for everyone this month—check out our schedule and join us for a September full of exploration and learning.

Downloadable calendars:

Looking for Falls kids programs? Visit here.

Looking for Fall teen programs? Visit here.

Otherwise, scroll down! 

Hughes Adult Library Programs

Closed for Labor Day

Sunday, September 1st & Monday, September 2nd

All branches closed Sunday, September 1st and Monday, September 2nd for the holiday. Normal hours resume Tuesday, September 3rd.

Weekly Programs (call 570-421-0800 ext. 316 for info.)

  • Mondays: Chair Yoga, 2:00pm, Community Room (No class 09/02)
  • Tuesdays: ESL Sessions, 5:30pm-7:30pm (Resuming 09/10)
  • Wednesdays: Color Yourself Calm (self-guided), 12:30pm-3pm, Pullen Room
  • Fridays: Chair Cardio/Movement, 2:00pm, Community Room (No class 09/27)

HUB Book Club

Tuesday, September 3rd, 6:00pm — Eisemann Room/ Zoom

This month’s selection of the Hughes United Book Club (HUB) is Ann Patchett’s Bel Canto. An e-book copy of this title is available on Hoopla. If you are not currently a member of the club but would like to join us, call 570-421-0800 x. 311 and ask for Jason or send an email to jvigorito@monroepl.org. New members are always welcome!

Introduction to Email (Tech Thursday)

Thursday, September 5th, 2:00pm — Pullen Room

Start your digital communication journey with our “Introduction to Email” class, perfect for beginners. Learn to set up and manage email accounts, compose messages, and use basic email etiquette. Registration is required due to limited space—call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 or visit the Hughes Library Information Desk to register or get more information.

Modern Marianismo: Talk & Book Signing with Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez

Thursday, September 5th, 5:30pm — Community Room

Join us for an engaging discussion with Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez as she delves into her book, Modern Marianismo, exploring the impact of cultural expectations on women’s roles. The event includes a book signing, light refreshments, and a performance by Rebel Stages. This is a valuable opportunity to challenge stereotypes and engage in a meaningful conversation about gender roles in society.

Red Cross Blood Drive

Saturday, September 7th, 9:30am-2:30pm — Community Room

Join us for a vital blood drive hosted by the American Red Cross at Hughes Library. Both Power Red and Whole Blood donations will be accepted. Registration is required—call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcross.org/rapidpass to schedule your appointment and help save lives.

Sit and Stitch: Sunday Edition!

Sunday, September 8th, 1pm – 4pm (drop-in) — Eisemann Room

Join us for a relaxing, self-guided crafting social on select Sundays! Bring your current project and connect with fellow crafters in a friendly, supportive environment. All skill levels are welcome. Registration is required due to limited space, but walk-ins are welcome if space permits. Call 570-421-0800 ext 317 to register.

Chronic Pain Health Booth

Monday, September 9th, 1:00pm – 4:00pm (drop-in) — Hughes Library Lobby

Drop by the Hughes Library Lobby between 1pm and 4pm to visit our Chronic Pain Health Booth! Speak with a PA Department of Health nurse about managing chronic pain and learn how to develop healthy habits. No appointment necessary.

Smart Money Strategies: Practical Tips for Budgeting, Saving, and Investing

Tuesday, September 10th, 4:00pm — Eisemann Room

Learn essential strategies for managing your finances effectively with practical tips on budgeting, saving, and investing. Registration is recommended due to limited space; call 570-421-0800 ext. 316 to secure your spot. Walk-ins allowed space permitting.

Digital Reading 101: Intro. to Library E-Books & E-Audiobooks (Tech Thursday)

Thursday, September 12th, 2:00pm — Pullen Room

Learn how to access and borrow e-books and e-audiobooks from EMPL’s digital collections using services like Hoopla and Libby. Basic device and internet skills are needed. Registration is required; call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 or visit the Hughes Library Information Desk on the second floor to sign up.

Eric Mintel Investigates: Paranormal Projection Room

Thursday, September 12th, 6:00pm — Community Room

Join us for a captivating evening with Eric Mintel as he shares his latest paranormal investigations, including video footage of ghostly encounters, UFO sightings, Bigfoot, and more. Perfect for adults but open to all ages, this event offers a unique dive into the unknown. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are appreciated. To reserve your spot, call 570-421-0800 ext. 316.

Fit for a Cause: Zumba® and Yoga Movement Fundraiser

Saturday, September 14th & Sunday, September 15th,

2:00pm – 4:00pm each day — Community Room

Get moving for a great cause at the Fit for a Cause Zumba® & Yoga Fundraiser! On September 14 and 15th, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM each day, Hughes Library will host 40-minute Zumba® and Yoga sessions, followed by meditation, with certified instructors Luz and Lisa. Each day is $20 or $35 for both, with proceeds supporting EMPL, National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, and Breast Friends of Pennsylvania. Pre-registration highly recommended; walk-ins accepted only if space allows. Contact Luz at 917-972-0937 or yogawithluz@gmail.com to register and for info.

Ask a Master Gardener

Monday, September 16th, 2:30pm – 3:30pm (drop-in) — Hughes Library Lobby

Don’t miss the chance to connect with the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Monroe County for their second-to-last session of 2024! Drop in to have your gardening questions answered—no appointment needed. They won’t be back until next Spring/Summer, so be sure to take advantage of this opportunity!

Sit & Stitch

Monday, September 16th, 3:30pm – 5:00pm (No session on 09/02) — Community Room

Join us at Hughes Library for a creative crafting session where all crafts and skill levels are welcome! Bring your own supplies and enjoy a self-guided experience every 1st and 3rd Monday from 3:30pm to 5pm in the Community Room. While there is no formal instruction, you’ll find a supportive atmosphere with friendly crafters ready to chat and help. Drop in or stay for the whole time—everyone is welcome!

Evening Chair Zumba with Danny Grae

Tuesday, September 17th, 5:30pm

Discover the joy of Chair Zumba with Danny, a seated adaptation of the popular Zumba dance fitness program. Led by licensed instructor Danny Grae, this high-energy class offers a toned upper body workout with easy-to-follow choreography and a sense of humor. Registration requested; walk-ins welcomed space permitting. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 to register and join us for a fun-filled fitness experience!

Intro to Computers and the Internet (Tech Thursday)

Thursday, September 19th, 2:00pm — Pullen Room

Join us for a beginner-friendly journey into the digital world with our introductory course. This class provides a gentle introduction to essential computer skills and navigating the online landscape. Perfect for beginners, we’ll cover the basics to boost your confidence in the digital realm. No prior experience required. Registrations required due to limited space. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 or stop by the Hughes Library Information Desk on the second floor to register or for more information. 

Getting Started with E-Books: An Evening Tutorial

Thursday, September 19th, 6:00pm – Eisemann Room

Explore eBooks and eAudiobooks with EMPL’s expert staff! Learn how to access the library’s digital collection using your library card. Registration required for this unique evening tutorial due to limited space. Call 570-421-0800 ext, 317 to register.

Bethlehem Steelworkers and the Restructuring of an Industrial Working Class: An Author Talk with Dr. Jill Schennum

Sunday, September 22nd, 2024, 2:00pm – Community Room

Join us for an conversation with Dr. Jill Schennum as she shares the powerful stories of Bethlehem’s steelworkers chronicled in her new book “As Goes Bethlehem.” Schennum paints a vivid picture of the profound changes these workers experienced following the closure of the iconic Bethlehem Steel Corporation. Gain a unique perspective into the human impact of deindustrialization on the Bethlehem community. Registrations are requested but not required – call 570-421-0800 ext. 316 to reserve your spot.

Seed Ball Workshop & Presentation

.Monday, September 23rd, 2:00pm — Eisemann Room

Experience an educational and hands-on workshop led by expert Master Gardeners from Penn State Extension, Monroe County. Participants will craft eco-friendly seed balls using a mix of soil, clay, and native plant seeds while learning planting techniques to ensure their successful growth. This event is perfect for all gardening skill levels – adults only.. Registration is required; call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 to reserve your spot.

Word Play Social: Scrabble, Bananagrams, & More!

Tuesday, September 24th, 1:30pm – 4:00pm (drop-in) — Pullen Room

Join us for a fun and social word game gathering every fourth Tuesday from 1:30pm to 4pm at Hughes Library. Use one of the provided Scrabble, Bananagrams, and other word game boards, or bring your own favorite. It’s a self-guided, come-and-go event – stay for the whole time or just stop by for a bit. No registration required.

College Funding: Effective Strategies for Managing Costs

Wednesday, September 25th, 2:00pm — Eisemann Room

Learn effective strategies for managing college costs, including how to take advantage of tax benefits for college savings. This session will help you navigate the financial challenges of higher education with greater confidence.

Getting Started with Facebook (Tech Thursday)

Thursday, September 26th, 2:00PM — Pullen Room

Learn how to navigate a Facebook profile, connect with friends and family, explore privacy settings, and upload photos in this beginner-friendly class. Basic computer and internet familiarity is recommended. Registration is required; call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 or visit the Hughes Library Information Desk to sign up.

Free BookHouse Concert: Doc Pappa & the Renegade Ramblers

Friday, September 27th, 7:00pm (doors open 6:30pm) — Community Room

Enjoy an evening of live Bluegrass, Gospel, and Irish music with Doc Pappa & the Renegade Ramblers, blending blues into traditional tunes. The trio performs popular covers along with original songs from their albums Lonesome Whistle Suite and Aliens Among Us. Admission is free and open to all ages. Seating is first-come, first-served, with refreshments available for a modest charge.

Smithfields Library Programs

Chair Yoga and Movement

Select Days — MST Community and Cultural Center Community Room

  • Tuesdays, Sept. 10th & 17th @ 2:30pm
  • Saturday, Sept. 21st @ 11am
  • Thursday, Sept. 27th @ 2:30pm

Join Luz for an eclectic mix of chair yoga and movement to help you stay healthy and well! No cost to join! Please bring water and a small towel. Dress to move.

Monthly Omnivorous Readers Book Club

Thursday, September 12th, 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm via ZOOM

The Smithfields Library Branch’s Omnivorous Readers Bookclub (ORB) is alive and well! The book theme for this month is Novels for Children. An email invitation with the Zoom link will be sent out before the meeting. If you are not currently a member of the club but would like to join us, call 570-223-1881 or send an email to smf@monroepl.org and you will be sent some information. New members are always welcome!

Chronic Pain Health Booth

Tuesday September 17th, 1:00 pm – 4pm

Drop by the library between 1pm and 4pm to pick up information on chronic pain. A PA Department of Health nurse will be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. No appointment necessary.

Pocono Township Library Programs

Chronic Pain Informational Health Booth

Thursday, September 5th, 9am – 1pm

Are you experiencing chronic pain or know someone who is? This month we will highlight
information regarding chronic pain and its management. Stop by the library to see our public health nurse with your questions. No appointment necessary.

Booktalk Book Club

Tuesday, September 10th, 2pm

The Pocono Township Booktalk Book Club will be reading Dennis Lehane’s Small Mercies this month. The club is meeting in-person. You can email the branch at ptl@monroepl.org for more information. New members are always welcome.

Litlover’s Book Club

*NOT meeting in September*
The Pocono Township LitLovers Book Club will not be meeting this month due to staff
availability issues. The book, Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann, will be discussed at the October meeting along with the October title. Copies of the September book are now available for members to pick up. We apologize for the inconvenience.