"Pushing the Limits" Reading, Viewing and Discussion Series

Vineyard Haven Public Library has received a grant for our community to participate in a nationwide reading, viewing and discussion series for adults called Pushing the Limits. Since the beginning of time, humans have imagined and achieved ways to push the boundaries of the physical world.  We want to be stronger, smarter, more aware; and we create stories to bring those dreams to life. But many of those stories are no longer just stories; and with great new advances in science and technology, we are finding ways in which all of us are able to push the limits every day. The Pushing the Limits program will explore these ideas in discussions that will include recommended popular books and feature film quality videos featuring authors, scientists and everyday people who thrive on exploring the natural world.

Our first discussion group will be held at 3pm on Monday, July 17, focusing on the theme "Nature" and TC Boyle's novel When the Killing's Done. Please join us as to discuss the book and view two short videos, including one from the author made especially for this program. Refreshments will be served.

Copies of books for the series will be available at Vineyard Haven Library or may be ordered through CLAMS. Additional discussion events will be held on the following topics and books:

Monday, August 7, 2017 3 pm
CONNECTION:  Erik Larson, Thunderstruck

Monday, August 28, 2017 3 pm
SURVIVAL:  Clive Cussler, Arctic Drift

Monday, Sept 11, 2017 3 pm
KNOWLEDGE:  Jean Auel, The Land of Painted Caves

Other programs in this series made possible by the grant include author Jonathan White's talk on June 29th on his book Tides: The Science and Spirit of the Ocean, and Daniel Goleman's talk on Monday, July 24th on his forthcoming book Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Transforms Mind, Body, and Brain. Future programs featuring prominent scientists will be scheduled over the summer and early fall.

This nationwide program is funded through the National Science Foundation and was created through a collaboration of Dartmouth College, The Califa Library Group, the Association of Rural and Small Libraries, Dawson Media Group, and the Institute for Learning Innovation.