PORTLAND — The Maine Irish Heritage Center at 34 Gray St. will host a launching event on Friday at 7 p.m. for Munjoy Hill author Michael C. Connolly’s new book. 

Connolly, a history professor at St. Joseph’s College, will sign copies of “Seated By The Sea: The Maritime History of Portland, Maine, and Its Irish Longshoremen.”

He will also give a lecture about the Portland waterfront and its connection to the Irish community. Musical entertainment will also be provided.

Same-day sales of the book will benefit the center.