Photo by David Plechl, from archives William Eldridge was trained in traditional Freudian psychology but came to integrate elements of Zen Buddhism, Native American spirituality and existential philosophy into his work and daily living. He will speak at Seaside Library and teach new Zen classes during the fall.

SEASIDE – The Seaside Public Library will host William Eldridge, author and instructor of “Zen Lifestyles” and “Spirituality and Wisdom,” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21. The event will be held in the community room and refreshments will be served.

Eldridge received a Master’s Degree in social work from Arizona State University in 1972 and was a mental health officer in the U.S. Army until 1977. After his discharge he pursued a doctorate in clinical and evaluative social work at the University of Denver. Eldridge became an assistant professor at Ohio State University and remained on the faculty for 27 years. He currently has an existential and spiritual mentoring practice on the North Coast, and teaches workshops in “Zen Lifestyles” and “Spirituality and Wisdom.” The Cannon Beach resident is also an avid swimmer and hiker and plays drums in various musical ensembles.

Seaside Public Library is located at 1131 Broadway, across from the Sunset Empire Parks and Recreation District Youth Center and Swimming Pool. For more information, call (503) 738-6742 or visit www.seasidelibrary.org or www.facebook.com/seasidepubliclibrary