Advertise on podcast: Middle Country Public Library Podcast

We're kicking off Spooktober 2026 with a dive into the ultimate spooky reading and watch list. Sara and Nicole breaks down eerie book recommendations for all age groups, from silly, mildly creepy tales for young kids to terrifying supernatural thrillers for older readers. The horror doesn't stop with books—get a breakdown of hair-raising movie picks spanning slow-burn thrillers, classic slasher flicks, and chilling mysteries. Grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and discover your next favorite autumn fright with your library card!

As fall arrives, Sara and Nicole highlight upcoming October releases, including new DVDs like Jackass, Hadestown, Masters of the Universe, One Night Only, and The Brink of War. Nicole shares her book recommendations such as the Wildwood series—soon to be an animated film and available on Hoopla—Tom and Nancy, and the latest Percy Jackson release. Reserve your copies today, stop by for a Pumpkin Spiced Latte, and get ready for the fall season!

Discover everything coming up this programming season, from major community fairs like the Women's EXPO and the Fall Festival... Learn about workshops focusing on career resources, attend a hands-on workshop, or join a reading club... Whether you're looking to gain new tech skills, explore local history, meet fellow readers, or find fun activities for the whole family, this fall lineup has something for everyone.

Join Sal and Jim for a look back at the events of September 11, 2001, marking 25 years since the day that changed the nation forever. This special episode features a historical retrospective on the timelines and tragic moments of that morning, honoring the incredible bravery shown by first responders, flight crews, and everyday citizens who risked everything to save others. Also hear personal reflections, as they share firsthand accounts of experiencing September 11th on Long Island, reflecting on the immediate aftermath, long-term impacts, and why preserving these memories matters for future generations.

We are going back to school! It's that time of year again: Sara and Nicole are here to remind you of the amazing resources available at your library!  For students, discover free online databases providing early-learning programs, math help, and live homework tutoring, along with reading displays tailored to help kids ease first-day jitters or ace book reports. For adults, boost your career with free access to top online learning platforms. Take courses in coding, marketing, and typing, prepare for professional licensing exams, or stream engaging talks from featured authors and subject experts. It's all at your fingertips with your library card...take advantage today! Dive deeper into the podcast and visit our show notes site: https://blog.mcplpodcast.com

Nicole has an update on the multi-billion-dollar federal legal settlement with Meta that brings unprecedented shifts to digital safety, forcing new usage limits and safety measures to protect young users online. Alongside this historic update in tech accountability, Sara has a heartfelt look back at the incredible legacy, career, and enduring philanthropic impacts of music and pop-culture icon Dolly Parton, celebrating her journey from humble beginnings to a lifelong mission of giving back.

Nicole is here to help you discover a fresh outdoor way to share a story with the family this month, complete with conversation starters and a little something to take home for your garden! Then, Sara digs into one of the library’s greatest digital services packed with binge-worthy TV shows and educational deep dives, movies, music, eBooks, audiobooks and more. Check out this week's show to hear about the trending titles you can start right away!

Test your weather smarts with a lively round of trivia covering everything from what really drives the wind and why some storms have different names depending on where they form, to record-breaking heat, snowy cities, lightning myths, cloud types that pack a punch, and those classic sayings sailors still swear by.

Jim Ward is here for another This Week in History - August 2nd through the 8th! Explore pivotal moments from this week across centuries, from the formal signing of the Declaration of Independence and early constitutional debates to landmark explorations under the Arctic ice, Olympic triumphs that challenged prevailing ideologies, the creation of a enduring military decoration, a daring high-wire feat between skyscrapers, and decisive turns in war and politics that reshaped nations.

First: Sara has a fresh list of August DVD new releases, from folk horror and space adventures to family comedy and more. Then: Nicole read the article and provides a lively follow-up on the idea that reading is supposedly fading away. Find out what’s really going on with attention spans, screens, and long-form reading, plus why libraries still matter more than ever. Grab a book, check out a movie, and keep the pages turning!

In this episode, we tackle some sobering news about reading habits in America and explore why The Odyssey remains essential reading. We discuss a recent Atlantic essay declaring the age of reading is over, declining book readership stats, shrinking attention spans, and the low percentage of adults reading to children. We also share hopeful developments in literacy education and why reading for pleasure still matters for sharp minds and deeper cultural understanding. Then we dive into Homer’s epic: its origins, oral tradition, themes of homecoming and survival, key story elements, cultural influence, and why it continues to inspire modern adaptations. We cover translations, companion resources, and how the story connects to places like Sicily—perfect if you’re inspired by the new film or want to finally read this classic.

This week, Nicole explores heartfelt ways to talk to children about death and grief with thoughtful book recommendations and practical advice drawn from trusted sources like the Fred Rogers Institute. Join us to learn tips on using honest language, answering questions openly, and supporting kids through loss while embracing it as a natural part of life. Then Sara dives into a selection of brand-new adult books fresh from the library shelves. From Victorian mysteries and witty thrillers to atmospheric family sagas, body horror, inspiring nonfiction about trailblazing women, and a cozy novel set in a mysterious night library—there's something for every reader.

Discover more defining moments that shaped the United States in part two of this special series on Great Moments in American History with Mr. Ward. From groundbreaking inventions and daring firsts in aviation, to landmark civil rights advances, cultural shifts, and modern triumphs in space, explore the events that propelled the nation forward. This episode continues the journey through iconic achievements and turning points across the 20th and 21st centuries, highlighting resilience, innovation, and unity. If you missed it, check out the first part here: https://www.mcplpodcast.com/e/america-250-great-moments-in-american-history-part-1-ep-438

Discover the pivotal events that shaped the United States in this special two-part series on the podcast: Great Moments in American History with Mr. Ward! From the adoption of foundational documents to landmark battles, explorations, and unifying achievements, explore the defining chapters that built the nation. Part one highlights extraordinary turning points from the Revolutionary era through the late 19th century, featuring iconic scenes and decisions that continue to resonate today. Journey through America's most significant historical milestones and stay tuned for part two next week.

This week, Nicole shines a light on Mercy Otis Warren, the remarkable playwright and writer from Massachusetts whose works helped rally support for independence. Often overlooked in history, Warren used her plays and writings to challenge British rule and inspire the revolutionary cause. Sara then delivers a "dramatic" reading of the full Declaration of Independence as only Sara can, followed by a discussion of its powerful words, the grievances against King George III, and the historical context of its creation and signing.