The 200th anniversary of Charles Dickens' birth on Feb. 7th will be commemorated with a special program at the Wallingford Library.

 Monmouth (N.J.) College Professor Brooks Appelbaum, who is a specialist in Victorian studies, will give a brief talk followed by a theatrical reading from Dickens’ novel Hard Times. Appelbaum will perform with local resident Neel Pizinger.

The program starts at 7 p.m. Birthday cake and coffee will be served at the conclusion of the event.

 Call the library at 203-265-6754 for more information.

Looking to add to your book collection? The Cheshire group Friends of the Library will be holding a book sale Thursday through Saturday.

The book sale will be held at the Cheshire Public Library, which is located at 104 Main St. The hours of the book sale are:

• Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Members of Friends of the Library will be able to take advantage of special hours - Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. -prior to the opening of the sale to the public.