LEWISTON — The Lewiston Public Library will continue its Pages & Pints book talk and beer tasting series with bartender, brewer, and drinks journalist Lauren Clark at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5. The free public event will open in the Library’s Callahan Hall with Clark speaking about her book,

The evening will then continue with tours of Baxter Brewing Co. followed by a reception and beer tasting. Forage Market will provide food pairings with the Baxter brews.

In her book, Clark aims to deepen appreciation for beer and the challenges inherent in creating the perfect pint. She chronicles the oft-rocky history of beer brewing in New England, going back four centuries beginning with the Pilgrims who dropped anchor in Plymouth because their supply of beer was running low.

After barely surviving the winter, they planted a crop of barley and soon brewed their first ale. Puritan housewives, industrial-era beer moguls, and contemporary craft brewers alike have concocted humankind’s oldest beverage in the face of scarce ingredients, legal hurdles, and public indifference.

But despite these challenges, beer has always been and continues to be a staple of New England life.

Clark is a freelance journalist and former bartender and brewer. Her articles have appeared in the New York Times, The Boston Globe, The Boston Herald, Jane, and Yankee Magazine, among other publications. Clark is also the founder of drinkboston.com, which has been featured in multiple periodicals, books, and media outlets.

Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing at both the Library and Baxter Brewing Co. on the night of the event. No registration is required. For more information, call 207-513-3135 or email LPLReference@LewistonMaine.gov.