Middle Country Public Library Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Top Children's Books of '25 + Thanksgiving Sides | Ep. 404 Nov 06, 2025

Show notes

As the year races to a close, Nicole dives into the standout books of 2025—from a lush, illustrated teen romance set against Rome's timeless streets to whimsical tales of undead adventures, animal classroom chaos, and joyful transformations that blur the line between reader and story.

View the list here: https://best-books.publishersweekly.com/children/2025/

Then join Sara as she whets your appetite for Thanksgiving food with takes on side dishes, regional riffs, and the unexpected origin of a comfort food icon. Be prepared to get hungry listening to this week's episode and don't forget to subscribe!

Spooktober! - Spooky Movie Franchises & Nightmares, too! | Ep. 403 Oct 30, 2025

Show notes

Ever woken up frozen in the dark, sensing a shadowy figure lurking just out of reach? Nicole dives into the eerie reality of sleep paralysis—its science, cultural myths, and quick escapes—before we pivot to the silver screen's most relentless slashers.

From Ghostface's meta mind games and Jason's lakeside rampages to found-footage chills, demonic deals, and Xenomorph hunts across the stars, Sara tallies the terrors of horror's almost endless empires.

Plus, a last-minute Halloween candy confession: Why snack-sized bars beat mini bites (of course!), and how Sal's leftovers fuel the ultimate holiday cookie treat. Happy Halloween!

Spooktober! - Horror Flicks & The Barnum Effect | Ep. 402 Oct 23, 2025

Show notes

As we approach the end of spooky season, Sara shares picks for horror movies available at the library: the 2021 Candyman remake, The Collector, Wes Craven's The Serpent and the Rainbow, Sinister, and the Silent Hill films. Then, dive into horoscopes with Nicole—what makes them appealing, the psychology behind them like the Barnum effect, and tips for using them as prompts for journaling or meditation. As always, check out library resources for more on folklore and astrology!

Spooktober! - Scary Books & Even Scarier A.I.! | Ep. 401 Oct 16, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a Spooktober scare-fest at the library: horror picks like Stephen King's latest, The Buffalo Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones, The No-End House by Jeremy Bates, The Devil by Name by Keith Rosson, Wake Up and Open Your Eyes by Clay McLeod Chapman, The Lamb by Lucy Rose, The Library at Hellebore by Cassandra Carr, and The Possession of Albert Diaz by Isabel Cañas—available to borrow now!

Then, dive into AI's eerie future: narrow AI vs. AGI, superintelligence risks, brain-drain studies, and simulation theories. Laughs, chills, and tips included.

Our Favorite Library Spots | Ep. 400 Oct 09, 2025

Show notes

We celebrate the podcast's 400th episode by stepping out of the studio and into the library for a tour of the podcast team's favorite spots.

Spooktober! - Spooky Fact or Fiction? | Ep. 399 Oct 02, 2025

Show notes

Join us for the kickoff of Spooktober 2025 at the Middle Country Public Library Podcast! This episode dives into the eerie with a true-or-false trivia game, exploring chilling tales of hauntings, ghostly ships, and mysterious figures. From poltergeists to spectral observers, test your knowledge of spooky folklore and paranormal legends. Stay tuned for next week’s special 400th episode!

New Astronauts + DVDs | Ep. 398 Sep 25, 2025

Show notes

The new class of NASA astronauts has arrived and Nicole has the details. Did you ever think you'd might want to be an astronaut? What about your kiddies? We have some details. Plus Sara has another list of upcoming DVDs, including F1, a remake of a classic flick, some horror for the season, and more!

Wait for Godot but Turn off Those Phones | Ep. 397 Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

Join us this week for Sara's review of a new Broadway production of Samuel Beckett's iconic play, Waiting for Godot, featuring Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter. She discusses the timeless themes of this 1952 piece, exploring existentialism, absurdity, and the human condition through the lens of two tramps waiting for a mysterious figure. Hear about the minimalist staging, standout performances, and the play’s historical and critical significance, including its ties to the Theatre of the Absurd.

Plus: Nicole explores practical tips for fostering healthy sleep habits in children, highlighting the impact of excessive screen time on sleep quality and behavior. Learn about library resources like Wonderbooks, Tonieboxes, and Playaways to encourage bedtime reading and reduce screen exposure.

Postpartum Help + Binge Boxes and Books | Ep. 396 Sep 11, 2025

Show notes

Join us for an exciting episode where we dive into a variety of topics perfect for book lovers, movie enthusiasts, and new parents. Discover resources and support for navigating the challenges of parenthood, including insightful discussions on mental health and practical tips from popular books.

Plus, explore our unique DVD binge boxes, featuring themed movie collections like boxing epics, isolation tales, football dramas, Australian cinema, and beach-themed adventures.

We also highlight new books, from gripping true crime stories and historical nonfiction to thrilling fiction and steamy romance novels.

Tune in for engaging conversations and fresh recommendations to inspire your next read or watch!

2025 Fall Programming Preview | Ep. 395 Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

Discover the exciting fall programming at Middle Country Public Library! We highlight a variety of events for all ages: from youth to teen to adults, there's something for everyone this season. Registration for children and teen programs begins September 11 at 9:30 AM, and adult programs register on September 12.

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