Library Lowdown

Correction: the print edition of this library lowdown erroneously called the exhibition by Sandra Gorman Oil Paint instead of Oil Paintings and listed the Artist reception as October 11 and 12th at 1:30, when the session is actually on October 11 from noon to 1:30. We apologize for the error..

This month's Mahopac Library calendar includes language programs, peducational presentations, some Halloween fun, trivia, art, crafts and much more. Unless otherwise noted, register at mahopaclibrary.org or call 845-628-2009 (extensions as listed).

Language Exchange: Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. – Weekly sessions of Language Exchange bring together people from Spanish and English-speaking backgrounds to practice speaking in each other's languages. The first half hour will be English conversation, and the second half hour will be Spanish conversation. No registration necessary.

Hauntings of the Hudson River Valley: Thursday, Oct. 2 at 6:00 p.m. – Local author and historian Vincent Dacquino takes a look at some of the notorious hauntings located nearby and shares stories of historical events and the negative energy associated with them. Register online call 845-628-2009, ext. 100.

Teen Trivia Night: Friday, Oct. 3 at 5:00 p.m. – You think you know so much, don’t you? Teams can invite friends, make a team, show off knowledge, and win prizes. Theme: Halloween Mischief. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 153.

Oil Paintings by Sandra Gorman: October 4–28 – Award-winning Lake Mahopac artist Sandra Gorman shares her life’s work inspired by nature and her surroundings. More than 30 paintings will be on display and available for purchase.

Spotting Scams: Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 2:00 p.m. – October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and this week’s session will focus on spotting scams. Learn what scammers look for, the clues that help avoid falling into traps, and review three real-life examples of online scams. Please register to attend in person or virtually. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100.

Testing, Testing! The SAT, ACT, and Your College Application: Thursday, Oct. 9 at 7:00 p.m. – Mollie Reznick (founder and director of The College Connection) and Michal Goldstein (senior director of the tutoring team at Collegewise) will discuss standardized testing in this virtual program. Registration with a valid email address is required. Check the online calendar for more information.

Artist’s Reception: Oct. 11: 12 to 1:30 p.m. – The public is invited to meet artist Sandra Gorman. Her oil paintings are on display in the Third Floor Gallery. Light refreshments served. No registration required.

Microsoft PowerPoint Series: Monday, Oct. 13 at 6:30 p.m. – Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint is a high-demand skill in the job market. This series will take participants from getting started to creating polished presentations. Meets Mondays 6:30–7:30 p.m. for four weeks. Hybrid format with in-person or virtual option. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100.

Teen Witch Crafts – Spooky Terrarium Necklace: Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 5:30 p.m. – Make a necklace terrarium with ghosts, crystals, and skeletons. Grades 6-12. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 153.

Friday Film Night for Adults: Friday, Oct. 17 at 6:00 p.m. – Monthly curated screenings of Hollywood classics, international films, modern trailblazers, and more. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: Sunday, Oct. 19 at 2:00 p.m. – Jonathan Kruk performs Washington Irving’s fall classic, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Staying true to the tale, Kruk brings mystery and wit to life while voicing every character. Performance made possible by the Sylvia B. Henschel Trust. Ages 18+. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100.

Making Passwords Easy with Password Manager: Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 2:00 p.m. – Password managers are digital vaults that can help keep passwords organized, up to date, and secure. Learn how to use one and generate unique passwords. Please register to attend in person or virtually. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100.

Horror Book Club for Teens: Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 5:00 p.m. – Pick up Dead Flip by Sara Farizan at the circulation desk and join the discussion, followed by a design activity. Grades 8-12. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 153.

Teen Horror Movie Festival: Friday, Oct. 24 at 5:00 p.m. – Teens can participate by making a horror film and submitting it for everyone to see. Submission forms available at the youth services desk or by emailing terrificteens@mahopaclibrary.org. Deadline is Oct. 22, 2025, at midnight. Films must be no longer than five minutes and rated PG-13. Grades 6-12. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 153.

The Hidden History of Slavery in New York Documentary Screening: Saturday, Oct. 25 at 1:00 p.m. – Screening of The Hidden History of Slavery in New York, a 30-minute documentary featuring Bryan Stevenson. Larry Epstein, who wrote, produced, and researched the project, will present the film and lead a Q&A. Register online or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100.

Live Author Screening with Philippa Gregory: Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 2:00 p.m. – Philippa Gregory discusses her newest novel, Boleyn Traitor, in a live-streamed conversation. Check the online calendar for registration details.