Check out these great programs for adults coming up this month at Hughes Library! Make sure to register for your favorites—space might be limited!

Looking for youth/children’s programs? Click here instead.

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CLOSED: Sunday, May 24th and Monday, May 25th
Eastern Monroe Public Library will be closed on Sunday, May 24th and Monday, May 25th. Normal hours will resume Tuesday, May 26th. .

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Hughes Library Adult Programs

Downloadable Hughes Adult Calendar here:

May Monthly Calendar

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Monthly Unique Programs!

Free Cognitive Screens by Physical Therapy at St Luke’s (drop-in)
Friday, May 1st, 1:30pm-3:30pm (drop-in) – Hughes Lobby

St. Luke’s University Health Network will be on site in our lobby to answer questions and provide cognitive screenings. Knowledge and screenings help identify early signs of cognitive decline, enabling timely interventions and care to improve overall brain health. No appointment needed.
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Free Sunday Film: Hamnet
Sunday, May 3rd, 2pm-4pm – Community Room

Join us for Hamnet (2025), a moving historical drama directed by Chloé Zhao. Set in 16th-century England, the film follows Agnes, a perceptive healer, and her husband William, an aspiring playwright, as they build a life together in a rural village. When tragedy strikes with the loss of their only son, the couple must navigate profound grief and the strain it places on their relationship. Starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, this intimate story explores love, loss, and resilience. Rated PG-13 for thematic content, some strong sexuality, and partial nudity. Shown with closed captions/English subtitles.
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Monday Sit & Stitch Sessions
Monday, May 4th, 3pm-4:30pm – Eisemann Room
Monday, May 18th, 3pm-4:30pm – Eisemann Room

Join a friendly, come-as-you-are gathering of fellow makers where you can bring your current project, chat, share ideas, and enjoy a relaxed creative atmosphere. This is a social meet-up, not a class, but you may find others who practice the same craft and are happy to lend an ear, offer a hand, or swap tips. All crafts are welcome—just bring your own supplies. No registration needed; drop in anytime. For adults, but ages 14+ welcome. We meet first and third Monday afternoons (3pm-4:30pm) and Second Sunday afternoons (1pm-3pm)!
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Elegant Mother’s Day & Spring Folded Card Craft w/ Alicia – TWO TIME SLOTS
Tuesday, May 5th, 11am or 12:30pm – Eisemann Room

Create a beautiful, intricate folded card inspired by Mother’s Day or the fresh charm of spring! These handmade cards feature layered designs, coordinated patterns, and elegant details—perfect for gifting or displaying. This adults-only workshop is led by Alicia of Inked Edge Paper Art, who will provide step-by-step guidance. All supplies are included, just bring your creativity. Option of an 11am session or a 12:30pm session. Please note: patrons are limited to signing up for one session only, not both. Adults/Ages 18+ only. Registration is required to secure your spot; call 570-421-0800 ext. 317. Registration opens Monday, April 20th.
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Senior Community Service Employment Program Info Booth
Tuesday, May 5th, 10am-1pm (drop by) – Hughes Lobby
Tuesday, May 19th, 1pm-3pm (drop by) – Hughes Lobby

Learn about AARP Foundation’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)! SCSEP is a paid job training program for adults aged 55+ who are currently unemployed. Participants gain part-time work experience at local nonprofits and public agencies while building skills and receiving help finding long-term employment. Stop by to see if you qualify and how to get started!
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Ask a Master Gardener
Tuesday, May 5th, 2pm-3pm (drop by) – Hughes Lobby

Join the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Monroe County at the Hughes Library for their first info booth of the 2026 season! Stop by for expert advice on all things gardening—no appointment needed! Whether you need help with plant identification, pest control, or just want tips on the latest trends, the Master Gardeners will be here to answer all your questions.
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HUB Book Club
Tuesday, May 5th, 6:30pm – Eisemann Room/Zoom

May’s Book: The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz. A monthly, hybrid book club open to all on 1st Tuesday evenings! Monthly title selections are available through the EMPL catalog. Some copies may also be available through our eBook services Libby and Hoopla. If you are not currently a member of the club but would like to join us, call 570-421-0800 x311 and ask for Jason, or email jvigorito@monroepl.org for more information or to request a Zoom link. New members are always welcome!
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Hats Off to Spring: A Mini Derby Hat Craft (Low Pressure Craft for Adults)
Friday, May 8th, 10:30am-11:30am – Eisemann Room
The Kentucky Derby may be over by the time of this craft, but the fabulous hats live on! Join us for a fun and relaxing craft session where you’ll design a small, eye-catching hat using yarn/thread, glue, bottle caps and some bonus decorations. These miniature hats make great mini decorations, accessories for miniatures, or gifts and are a great way to celebrate the season. As with all of our Low-Pressure Adult Crafts, the focus is on fun, creativity, and connection rather than perfection—results may vary. Be prepared for some messy hands! For adults only (ages 18+). Registration required. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 to register. Registration opens Monday, April 20th.
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Sunday Sit & Stitch
Sunday, May 10th, 1pm-3pm – Eisemann Room
Join a friendly, come-as-you-are gathering of fellow makers where you can bring your current project, chat, share ideas, and enjoy a relaxed creative atmosphere. This is a social meet-up, not a class, but you may find others who practice the same craft and are happy to lend an ear, offer a hand, or swap tips. All crafts are welcome—just bring your own supplies. For adults, but ages 14+ welcome. No registration needed; drop in anytime. We meet first and third Monday afternoons (3pm-4:30pm) and Second Sunday afternoons (1pm-3pm)!
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Free Weekday Matinee Classic Film: Joy Luck Club (1993)
Tuesday, May 12th, 2pm-4:20pm — Community Room

Join us for The Joy Luck Club (1993), a moving drama directed by Wayne Wang and based on the novel of the same name by Amy Tan. Presented in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. Set between San Francisco and China, the film follows four Chinese immigrant mothers and their American-born daughters as they reflect on their pasts and navigate the complexities of family, identity, and cultural heritage. Starring Tamlyn Tomita, Kieu Chinh, Tsai Chin, France Nuyen, and Lisa Lu. Rated R for strong thematic material. Shown with closed captions/English subtitles.
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Evening Chair Zumba® with Danny Grae
Tuesday, May 12th, 5:30pm – Community Room

Discover the joy of Chair Zumba®, a seated adaptation of the popular Zumba® dance fitness program. Enjoy an upper body workout perfect for all fitness levels, plus it’s low impact! Don’t worry – you’ll still break a sweat! Adaptable for wheelchair users and most fitness abilities. Now happening monthly. Registration requested; walk-ins are welcome. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317.
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BookTalk Book Club
Wednesday, May 13th, 1:00pm-3:00pm — Board Room

May’s Book: Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro. A monthly book club on 2nd Wednesday afternoons! Monthly title selections are available through the EMPL catalog. Some copies may also be available through Libby and Hoopla. Call 570-421-0800 x311 and ask for Jason, or email jvigorito@monroepl.org for more information.
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Book Swap: Bring a Book, Take a Book – EVENING EDITION
Wednesday, May 13th, 5pm-7pm, drop-in – Community Room

You asked, we answered. Join us for an evening edition of our popular book swap event! Bring a book, take a book – to keep! Drop in anytime during the event. Only books in gently used condition will be accepted. Note: This is a book swap for adults and books will be mostly for adult readers with occasional young adult selections. Remaining books will be donated to the Friends of Eastern Monroe Public Library. For adults, but ages 16+ welcome. Registration helpful for staff planning but not required. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 to register.
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“Pure Air in the Poconos” Workshop (two session options!)
Thursday, May 14th, 2pm-4pm – Community Room
Thursday, May 14th, 5:30pm-7:30pm – Community Room

“Pure Air in the Poconos” is a partnership among the Center for Collaborative Heat Monitoring, Sanofi, and Pocono Mountains United Way. The goal of the project is to engage community members in participatory science to learn more about air quality and health in the Pocono Mountains. This workshop will introduce participants to air quality science and provide training on how to use low-cost sensors to monitor air quality. The workshop will be hands-on, with time for questions and conversation. Everyone is welcome to attend. No prior knowledge of air quality science is needed to participate. All that is needed is an interest and willingness to learn new things. The workshop is designed for adults but is open to youth and teens (age 12-18).
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Free BookHouse Concert: The Danny Grae Show (country, pop, rock, jazz, & blues!)
Friday, May 15th, 7pm (doors open 6:30pm) – Community Room

Enjoy a free concert featuring Danny Grae, a charismatic entertainer with a rich, versatile voice performing Broadway, standards, country, rock & roll, and more. With the flair of a vintage cabaret show, his lively, interactive style and heartfelt storytelling create a fun, engaging experience for the audience. Joined by Phill Carollo on guitar, Danny delivers a dynamic performance—he’s also known as the library’s energetic chair Zumba instructor. Refreshments available for a small cost; donations appreciated.
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Last Day for Book Donations!
Saturday, May 16th

The Friends of Eastern Monroe Public Library will pause accepting donations May 17–June 24, 2026 to prepare for upcoming book sales. Last day to donate: Saturday, May 16 by 5 PM. Donations resume: Thursday, June 25. No donations accepted during this period, no exceptions. Items left outside or in the book drop cannot be accepted. Outside of the pause period, donations are accepted Thursdays through Saturdays only at Hughes Library during open hours. For more information, call 570-421-0800. Thank you for your support!
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Guided Meditation with Luz
Saturday, May 16th, 2pm-3pm – Community Room

In this one-hour weekend session, Luz will guide you through a calming rainforest-themed meditation, incorporating gentle breathing and grounding techniques to help you relax and reconnect as we ease into the Spring season. Optional, but you’re encouraged to bring a yoga mat or chair cushion, a blanket, and yoga blocks and straps. Registration is requested, but walk-ins are welcome. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317.
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Arthritis & Better Sleep Health Booth
Tuesday, May 19th, 9am-12pm (drop-in) – Hughes Lobby

With Arthritis Awareness Month and Better Sleep Month happening together, this booth highlights how comfort, mobility, and restful sleep all play a role in daily wellbeing. A PA Department of Health representative will be available to explore topics such as gentle movement, supporting joint comfort, or building a healthy sleep routine. People of all ages are encouraged to stop by. Drop by anytime—no appointment or registration needed.
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Ask An Advocate; Q&A on Interpersonal Violence – TWO TIME OPTIONS
Tuesday, May 19th, 10am (day session) – Eisemann Room
Thursday, May 29th, 5:30pm (evening session) – Eisemann Room

SAFE Monroe’s staff will come to discuss the dynamics of domestic/sexual violence. Discussions will dive into how to respond if someone confides in you, common red flags in unhealthy relationships, legal options for those who are unsafe, victim’s rights, and resources within the community. Advocates will also allow plenty of time for questions and comments. Walk-in, no registration required.
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Porch Planter 101 Workshop with the Master Gardeners
Thursday, May 21st, 4pm-6pm — Community Room

Join us for a hands-on introduction to creating a beautiful porch planter! In this beginner-friendly workshop, participants will design and assemble a small container using shade to part-sun ornamental plants. Along the way, Penn State Extension Master Gardeners, Monroe County will share practical tips to help your planters thrive all season long. Registration required, for adults/ages 18+ only. Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 to register. Registration opens Monday, May 4th.
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Kaleidoscope Book Club
Thursday, May 21st, 6:00pm — Pullen Room/Zoom

May’s Theme: Service & Sacrifice: Military + LGBTQIA+. In theme with Memorial Day, this month we will read books featuring LGBTQIA+ veterans, active-duty characters, or stories set in military contexts. A choose-your-own-read adult book club on third Thursdays celebrating LGBTQ+ authors, characters, and stories with a new theme each month. Choose any title that fits the theme, whether from our suggested list online or your own pick. Questions or want the Zoom link? Call 570-421-0800 ext. 317 or email programming@monroepl.org. For additional theme details and suggested reads, visit monroepl.org/kaleidoscope-book-club.
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Red Cross Blood Drive
Saturday, May 23rd, 9:30am-2:30pm — Community Room

Your lifesaving donation is needed now! Join us at Hughes Library for an American Red Cross blood drive, accepting Whole Blood and Power Red donations. Harsh winter storms in late January have resulted in urgent need for blood. Your donation can help patients facing cancer, trauma, surgery, and chronic illnesses. Registration is strongly recommended—call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcross.org/rapidpass.
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Word Play Social: Scrabble, Bananagrams, Word Puzzles, & More!
Tuesday, May 26th, 1:30pm- 4:00pm (drop in) — Pullen Room

Unwind, stretch your brain, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon of word-friendly fun! Come solo, invite a friend, or meet someone new—everyone is welcome. Try our selection of Scrabble, Bananagrams, and other word-themed games, or bring your own favorites. And whether you prefer a quieter puzzle moment or simply don’t want to play a board game solo, we’ll have plenty of crosswords and word search print outs just in case. This is a self-guided, drop-in program—stay the whole time or stop by whenever you like. No registration required.
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Library Board Game Night (for adults!)
Wednesday, May 27th, 4:00pm – 8:00pm — Eisemann Room

Join us for a relaxed evening of tabletop fun! Meet new people, play your favorite games, or discover something new from our collection. Drop in anytime between 4–8 PM. Open to all—intended for adults, but ages 14+ are welcome. No experience needed. (Usually held on fourth Wednesday evenings unless otherwise noted.)
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Children & Teen’s Used Book Sale
Friday, May 29th, 4:00pm – 7:00pm — Community Room
Saturday, May 30th, 9:00am-4:00pm — Community Room
Sunday, May 31st, 12:00pm-4:00pm — Community Room

Browse thousands of gently used items for all ages—from tots to teens! Find books, records, CDs, DVDs, puzzles, and games, all organized by subject and priced to sell. Perfect for every interest and reading level. The sale benefits the Eastern Monroe Public Library, presented by the Friends of the Eastern Monroe Public Library. Sale runs Friday through Sunday, cash or credit card accepted.
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Weekly Programs at Hughes

Drop-In Fly-Tying Demo & Practice with Trout Unlimited (Mondays)
Watch fly-tying demonstrations and try your hand at this traditional craft with John from Brodhead Chapter of Trout Unlimited! Drop by the Hughes Library lobby most Mondays, 1-4pm (see calendar for dates) to admire both classic and unique examples of fly tying patterns, learn techniques, and practice tying. All flies created will be donated to VALOR to support veterans with fly fishing. No experience or registration required.
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Chair Yoga (Mondays)
Mondays: 5/4, 5/11, 5/18 (no class 5/25, Library closed)

Join our Chair Yoga sessions for a yoga-focused class suitable for all levels. Yoga classes include breathing exercises, movement exercises, meditation, and more. All movements are adaptable—Luz provides instructions and modifications for different abilities, so you can participate entirely on the chair, partially off, or fully off the chair if comfortable. Please bring water, a towel (optional), and a yoga mat if you plan to move partially or fully off the chair. Bringing yoga blocks or straps, if you have them, is recommended. Space is limited to 50 participants, first-come, first-served. Arrive early—doors close promptly at 2:00 PM, and no late entries are allowed.

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Color Yourself Calm: Adult Coloring (Wednesdays)
Every Wednesday, 12:30pm-3:00pm (drop-in) — Pullen Room
Join us for Color Yourself Calm, a relaxing, self-guided coloring session for adults of all abilities. All materials are provided—including colored pencils, crayons, markers, and a variety of coloring sheets—though you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer. Drop in anytime during the session and stay for as long as you like. Settle in for peaceful solitude or connect with others in a calm, creative atmosphere. Unwind, recharge, and enjoy a soothing break in your day!
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Tech Thursday Series (Thursdays)
Every Thursday, 2:00pm – 3:00pm — Pullen Room
Tech Thursdays take place every Thursday at 2 PM in the Pullen Room, featuring a variety of tech and computer topics designed for beginners. Due to limited space, registration is required. Laptops will be available for classes that need them, but participants are welcome to bring their own devices for added comfort. If you find the classes don’t fully meet your needs, we’re happy to arrange one-on-one sessions based on librarian expertise. To register, please call 570-421-0800 ext. 317, or feel free to email reference@monroepl.org with any questions.

• Investment Research Class: Exploring ValueLine & Financial Resources from Your Library (Thursday, May 7th, 2026, 2pm)
• Computer Confidence Class: A Beginner’s Guide to Computers & the Internet (Thursday, May 14th, 2026, 2pm)
• Microsoft Word Basics Class: Essential Skills for Beginners (Thursday, May 21st, 2026, 2pm)
• Computer Confidence Class: A Beginner’s Guide to Computers & the Internet (Thursday, May 28th, 2026, 2pm)
• Find our Tech Thursday line up by clicking here! 

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Chair Cardio/Movement (Fridays)

Fridays: 5/1, 5/8, 5/22 (no class 5/15 & 5/29)
Every Friday, 2:00pm (unless otherwise specified) — Community Room
Join our Chair Cardio sessions for a heart-pumping, full-body movement class open to all levels. Each week features different exercises and movement styles—mixing it up between boxing, tai chi, balletone, strength/balance work and more. It will get your blood flowing and make you break a sweat, even from the chair! All movements are adaptable—Luz demonstrates modifications for different abilities, so you can participate fully on the chair, partially supported, or off the chair if comfortable. Bring water, a towel (optional), and a yoga mat if you plan to move partially or fully off the chair. Class is limited to 50 participants, first-come, first-served. Arrive early—doors close promptly at 2:00 PM, and no late entries are allowed.