Dr George Geckle will lecture on the play about a 16th Century merchant who must default on a loan from a bitter creditor. Dr Geckle is professor emeritus at the University of South Carolina, with strong ties to the Newtown community. He has written several books on Shakespeare and other literary subjects.

His lecture is planned for Tuesday, January 8, at 7 pm.

A screening of the 2004 film The Merchant of Venice, starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons, will be offered on Tuesday, January 15, at 7 pm.

Admission to both of these programs are free. Reservations are not needed, but always appreciated. Call the library at 426-4533 for additional information.