Quiet Nights: A Book Club at Mechanics' Hall

Get cozy in our historic library, and dedicate an hour to reading anything you want! No deadlines or forced discussions. Ease into Mondays with Quiet Nights: A Book Club at Mechanics' Hall. Quiet Nights aims for the sheer pleasure of reading without the weight of obligatory discussions or deadlines. It's about cultivating community and granting oneself the time and space to read in the serenity of Portland's most enchanting Library. An introvert's haven, we'll initially gather to greet and welcome each other, pouring tea and reconnecting with old and new friends. Then, a peaceful hush will prevail as we read silently for an hour. As the evening draws closer, we'll indulge in some social time. What to expect: • A fully stocked tea bar and light snacks • A few cozy blankets for those who wish. • An electric fireplace in the Library will help set the tone and keep things warm. • Mechanics' Hall members have full access to our circulating Library, so bring your book or arrive early to pick up something new to read! This program is free for Mechanics' Hall Members with registration. Learn more about membership here. This is a reading-focused event, and open to readers using and platform (book, tablet or quiet assistive devices). Writing or other quiet activities (drawing/doodling) are encouraged. Please no laptops. Cellphones will need to be silenced during the quiet part of the evening. Limited Comfy Seats Available - please RSVP! SCHEDULE 5:00 PM: Arrive, say hello, make a cup of tea and settle in 5:30-6:30: Quiet reading hour 6:30 PM: Say hello to a new friend or chat with your bestie who joined you. 7:00 PM: G'night! Scheduled Dates • Monday, November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 • Monday, December 7, 14 • Monday, January 4, 11, 25 • Monday, February 1, 8, 22 • Monday, March 1, 8 PARKING & TRANSPORTATION The Greater Portland Metro’s Congress & Casco Street Stop is directly in front of our building, served by routes 1, 7, 8, and 9B. Street Parking: Available on Congress, Casco, Cumberland, Free Street, and nearby streets. Pay by meter or the Passport Parking App. Free after 6 PM, on Sundays, and between Parris and Alder Street. Some blocks may vary — look for posted signs. Garages: The Arts District Garage (41 Brown St) has 250+ spaces, is open 24/7, and accepts credit card only, with entrances on Brown, Cumberland, and Casco. The Elm Street Garage (21 Elm St) is conveniently near the Portland Library. The Spring Street Garage is three blocks away at 45 Spring St. ACCESSIBILITY To enter our building, patrons will need to navigate a single step or use a modular ramp. Please note that the wheelchair ramp has a steep incline. A wheelchair-accessible elevator is available. The elevator is 60" deep, 48" wide, with a 32" door opening. There are four wheelchair-accessible bathrooms on the third-floor level, adjacent to the Ballroom. If you have a wheelchair or need accessibility accommodations/questions, please contact us at [email protected] or 207-773-8396.