The Bridgeport Public Library will host five free programs from Nov. 14 through 19, including a magic show, a dinosaur-themed afternoon for children, a chess club, an anime and manga club, and a look at the first Thanksgiving through historical documents.
Illusionist David Garrity will present “Mysterious Deceptions” from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, in the Beardsley Branch community room, 2536 East Main St. The show will feature mind-reading acts and a floating table. It is open to ages 14 and older.
Dinosaur Day will run from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16, in the Newfield Branch children’s room, 755 Central Ave. Children ages 4 to 12 can take part in a scavenger hunt, play dinosaur bingo for prizes and make dinosaur snow globes while supplies last.
The Chess Club will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, on the main floor of the Black Rock Branch, 2705 Fairfield Ave. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome.
The Anime and Manga Club will meet from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, in the North Branch community room, 3455 Madison Ave. Teens ages 13 to 17 can make crafts, discuss manga, share recommendations and learn how to use their library cards to access anime and manga through Libby, Kanopy and Hoopla.
The series concludes with “History by the Book: The First Thanksgiving” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, in the children’s room at the Burroughs-Saden Main Library, 925 Broad St. Reference librarian Kate Mozier-Tichy will use primary sources to explore the Puritans and the first Thanksgiving and recommend resources for further reading.