Rochester Hills Public Library: News and Views, Winter 2024

Cover: A photo of the Youth Services Department in 1992 held in front of the current 


The library board meets monthly on the second Monday. Meetings are open to the public. Reasonable auxiliary aids & services are available.

Many programs require registration with an active RHPL card unless otherwise noted. To apply for an RHPL card, visit rhpl.org/get-a-library-card/

A LETTER FROM THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR

For the last few months, I’ve had a unique opportunity to reflect on the past in a meaningful way. 2024 is the library’s centennial year, and we have been hard at work planning a year-long celebration. One of our most special commemorations is the book A Necessity of Life by Deborah Larsen, which documents the history of the library and is available for purchase in the library store. As a historian, librarian, and writer, Larsen creates a rich view of the evolution of this library. The story starts with a group of young adults who formed a literary society in the late 1800s with the same energy and vitality that we see in the eyes of our ambitious high school students today. It recounts how the attendees of the Rochester Woman’s Club mobilized to form a library, much like parents of today who gather in our meeting rooms to organize around ideals and advocacy. It spans decades of innovation, documenting the adults who transitioned from rural farm life to skilled trades, like the individuals who visit our makerspace to learn how to use our CAD design software, laser engraver, or 3D printer today.

I am the tenth head librarian to lead this institution, and I am grateful for what this community built. I marvel at the number of staff and quirky personalities that worked at the library over the years. I think about the changes in society that these shelves have seen. I think about the natural landscape, the new buildings, roads, and infrastructure that we have welcomed over the past ten decades. I am grateful to the board members and library directors who pledged to be trustworthy public servants and good stewards of the taxpayer’s money. I hope you’ll join me this coming year in celebrating the RHPL centennial and reflecting on what it means to support a high-caliber library system. We have a shared legacy in this community – one hundred years and counting of lifelong learning and enlightenment. Join me as we enter our next century together.



HOLIDAY HOME TOUR

One of Rochester’s oldest and best holiday attractions, the Holiday Home Tour, is back! Tickets are $35 per person and include a map of the tour homes and the boutique at the Van Hoosen Dairy Barn. The tour showcases five area homes done up in high style for the holidays for all to visit and see. Docents will be at each location to guide visitors and answer questions. HHT helpers will direct visitors to parking.

The tour’s popular Gift Boutique will be hosted at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm’s Dairy Barn. Holiday items of all sorts will help you with gift lists and cider and donut refreshments will be available at the barn for each person with a HHT ticket. Attendees will also get free admission to the model train display in the Van Hoosen complex.

Visit rhpl.org/friends-of-rhpl for tickets. Online sales end Sunday, December 3. For in-person purchases, visit the following locations:

The Friends Store inside the RHPL Lobby, 500 Olde Towne Road

Wild Birds Unlimited, 3032 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills

Werner’s Hallmark, 4866 N. Adams Rd, Oakland Township

Lytle Pharmacy, 340 S Main St, Rochester

THE FRIENDS BOOK NOOK, AVAILABLE EVERY DAY

The Friends “Book Nook” is here. These permanent shelves have replaced the carts and are located in the west hallway, next to the aquarium. Holding all of our popular materials for sale, the nook runs on a self-serve honor system. Non-fiction, fiction, youth books, cookbooks, and puzzles are restocked daily. This holiday season three shelves will be devoted solely to Christmas books. Through the generous donations of used materials from our community, the Book Nook is on track to earn over $24,000 this year. All proceeds are passed on to the library to support adult, teen, and youth programs, concerts, staff development, and more.

FRIENDS QUALITY SALE

Thursday, November 30-Saturday, December 2. 

Shop for wonderful gifts at wonderfully low prices, just in time for the holidays. All donated items are in like-new condition and are often in their original wrappings. There will be books, puzzles, games, DVDs, and CDs, as well as unique items that make great gifts.
Thursday, November 30, 3-8 p.m.
Friday, December 1, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, December 2, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m


July 9, 1924


"A meeting of the Avon Township Library Board was called by Mr. Henry Axford, on July 9th – 1924 – at 7:30 P.M. at the Library for the purpose of organizing and making out a budget to submit to the Avon Township Board.

The meeting was called to order by Mr. Axford, who moved that Mrs. Louis Curtis act as president. The motion was seconded and carried.

Mr. Hazelswerdt moved that Miss Barwise act as secretary. The motion was seconded and carried.

On prevailing motion Mr. Shinnick was elected Vice President.

A motion that Mr. Hazelswerdt act as Treasurer was seconded and carried.

Moved by Mr. Axford and seconded by Mr. Shinnick that a committee of two be appointed to draft a Constitution and By-Laws. The motion was carried. Mr. Axford and Mr. Hazelswerdt were appointed by the President.

Moved by Mr. Shinnick and seconded that the Avon Township Library Board negotiate for the room that is being built and equipped for a library in the New National Bank Building – at forty dollars per month for a period of one year. The motion was carried.

It was decided that the board meet the first Saturday evening of each month at 7:30. After a discussion, the meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,
Eva Barwise, Secretary."


While not quite the Indiana Jones-level thrill ride that we’ve all come to expect out of engaging with historical artifacts, this transcription of the meeting minutes of July 1924 is nevertheless exciting. You have just read the official meeting minutes from one of the first official meetings of the Rochester Hills Public Library—as it came to be known—board.

What started as a literary society founded by teenagers in 1872 changed hands throughout the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century and eventually became the Rochester Women’s Club. Those bold and inspired women decided the people of Avon Township needed a place dedicated to literature and intellectual pursuits and formed a library. One hundred years later, RHPL sits firmly in the 21st century, introducing you to our hundredth year of programming and services. 
In preparation for this monumental anniversary, RHPL staff have been creating programs and planning ways to help you engage with history and celebrate the beloved cornerstone of our bustling community. We would like to formally invite you to take part in our festivities. We can’t imagine celebrating with anyone but you, our devoted patrons. 

We’ll be highlighting special events and archives all year long. Visit the centennial page of our website for an interactive timeline, a limited edition library card, a retro summer reading challenge, and of course, historic artifacts like board meeting minutes, filled with all the squabbles, budgets, and behind-the-scenes commentary you can handle. Stay tuned to rhpl.org and our social media for many more spectacular surprises in honor of our special year.

As we looked through historical documents to prepare our programming, we couldn’t help but imagine that in 100 more years, someone may be skimming our minutes and smiling at the charming references and antiquated language. They might plan their own programming to show what life was like in 2024. What are some pastimes and trends that you love today? How do you imagine they’ll be remembered in 100 years? Share with us on our social media pages or at rhpl.org/contact-us.

Whatever the next century holds, we’ll be here, offering outstanding customer service and expert assistance, entertainment, and resources to our patrons. Not to be celebrated in a far-off year, but to do what we have dedicated our careers to, serve the people of Rochester, Rochester Hills, and Oakland Township. Now that’s something to celebrate.


ADULT PROGRAMS 

For a complete listing of all of our programs, detailed descriptions, and to register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or scan the QR code. Registration opens one month in advance of the program. Questions? Call 248-650-7130 or email help@rhpl.org.


COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Basic Technology Help for Seniors
Saturdays, December 16, January 13, February 10, 12-1 p.m. Conference Room A 
New to computers, smartphones, tablets, email, or Microsoft Office? Meet up with a group of patient, friendly teen volunteers who can show you the basics. Registration is required.

Warm Your Heart Food Drive
Monday, January 8 - Monday, January 15. 
Honor Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy by providing service to your community. Donate to Neighborhood House’s Warm Your Heart drive. Donate cans of soup and keep your neighbors warm and fed this winter. No registration required.

Neighborhood House, 
Service to the Community
Tuesday, January 9, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room

Neighborhood House is dedicated to uplifting and empowering our community by providing essential resources and opportunities. Join Michael Dreon, Executive Director of Neighborhood House, to learn more about the mission and vision of Neighborhood House and its impact on our community. Registration is required.

Lifelong learning for all. 
Join RHPL and community partners Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, Rochester University, Oakland University, and Ascension Health for a series of lectures from community experts.

Pearl Harbor Revisited — 82 Years Later
Thursday, December 7, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room
Learn everything about Pearl Harbor, from the lead-up to the attack on the US Naval Fleet to the end of WWII.

Where Have All the Children Gone? 
Youth Sports and the Slow Demise of Unsupervised Play
Thursday, December 14, 7 p.m. 
Multipurpose Room
Dr. Dave Hutson’s presentation will take a multi-faceted approach to exploring the evolution of children’s play, the societal influencers of play, the rise and fall of youth sports and unsupervised play, and a new vision for youth sports.

Looking at Art Through the Eyes of an Artist
Tuesday, February 27, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room
In this richly illustrated presentation, we’ll talk about how to get a work of art to speak to you and how to make friends with the art you see.


HISTORY, ART, & CULTURE

Drop-In Genealogy Help
Saturdays, December 9, January 13, February 10, 2 p.m. Conference Room B or Virtual
Need a little help jump-starting your family research? Stop by and get tips and tricks from our volunteer genealogist, Heather! Registration is required.

Rochester Poets Society
Sunday, December 10, 2 p.m. Multipurpose Room
Enjoy a poetry recital from the Rochester Poets Society. There will also be the opportunity to recite your own poetry during their open mic session. Registration is required. 

Shared Reading Performance by Rochester University Theatre Students
Thursday, December 28, 7 p.m. Adults and Teens. Multipurpose Room 
Adapted from Dr. Norman Weinberg’s novel, “Commandment: Pandemic Unleashed”. The novel combines historical and science fiction to create a new narrative concerning the fate of humanity when an extraterrestrial pandemic is unleashed across the population. Performance written and organized by Mikel Hall. Registration is required. 

Meet and Greet
Thursday, January 11, 7 p.m. Adults. Multipurpose Room

Are you new to the community? Are you struggling to meet new friends in the area? Or would you like to get to know new people? Here’s a fun opportunity to meet new friends! You will be going around exchanging questions and getting to know each other — sort of like speed dating but not really! Registration is required.

A Necessity of Life: The History of Rochester Hills Public Library 
Thursday, January 18, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room
Author Deborah Larsen takes a look back at 100 years of growth, development, and challenges that have taken the library from a small reading room in the bank building to one of the busiest public libraries in Michigan. Registration is required.

Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant
Tuesday, February 6, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room
Filmmaker and co-founder of the Asian American Writers' Workshop, Curtis Chin talks about his memoir. A coming of age and coming out, the book traces the author's journey through 1980's Detroit as he navigated rising xenophobia, the AIDS epidemic, and the Reagan Revolution to find his voice as a writer and activist — all set against the backdrop of his family's popular Chinese restaurant. Registration is required.

Community Screening Event: Warrior Lawyers: Defenders of Sacred Justice
Thursday, February 15, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room

This one-hour PBS documentary focuses on the stories of Michigan Native American Lawyers, Tribal Judges, and their colleagues who work with Native Nations, their citizens, and mainstream institutions to achieve healing and Sacred Justice. Join filmmaker Audrey Geyer for a discussion and Q&A session. Registration is required.

SCIENCE & THE ENVIRONMENT

Let’s Go Birding 
Wednesday, December 6, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room

Mr. Bodker will talk about places to go birding in our area as well as share personal stories and photographs from the field. Registration is required.

Houseplant Parenthood
Tuesday, January 23, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room
Experts from Bordines will share information on general plant care. Learn about feeding, plant health, choosing a plant, and what to do when they outgrow their surroundings. Registration is required. 

WRITING & BOOKS

Coming Soon - Favorite Authors Club 
Starting in January, sign up online to be automatically placed on hold for new books by some of your favorite authors! See rhpl.org/adult-services for more information.

50 Books in a Year
January - December 2024
Make 2024 your best reading year ever! Challenge yourself to read more this year and keep a log of your reading using RHPL’s Beanstack online account or app. Read and earn badges to win prizes and be entered into grand prize drawings at the end of the year. Extra challenge for 2024: Celebrate 100 years of RHPL and unlock more prizes by reading 100 books! 

Scribes Writers Workshop
Wednesdays, December 13, January 10 and 24, 
February 14 and 28, 1-4 p.m. Conference Room B
This drop-in workshop is for those who love to write, want to learn from experienced writers, or want to let their writing ideas flow. Members will write on a given topic or thought starter and give and take positive feedback. No registration required.


ADULT BOOK CLUBS

Between the Lines
Tuesdays, January 16 and February 20, 2 p.m.
Thursdays, January 18 and February 22, 7 p.m.
Adults. Conference Room A (Tuesdays) and Conference Room B (Thursdays)

Join RHPL’s lively monthly book discussion. Pick up a copy of the book at the Adult Reference Desk or download an audiobook edition using the Libby app.Registration is required. Space is limited.

January 16th: Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams
January 18th: Funny Farm: My Unexpected Life with 600 Rescue Animals by Laurie Zaleski

February 20th: Murder in the Family by Cara Hunter
February 22nd: The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty 

Books on Tap 
Monday, January 8, 7 p.m. Main Street Billiards, VIP room

Meet at Main Street Billiards (215 S. Main St) for a casual book club in a relaxed setting. We’ll talk about books and enjoy Main Street Billiards’ delicious food and drinks. Copies of the book are available at the Adult Reference desk upon registration. Registration is required. 

January 8: We Had to Remove This Postby Hanna Bervoets

POP CULTURE & GAMES

Know-It-All Trivia Smackdown! 
Mondays, December 11 and February 12, 7 p.m. Main Street Billiards, solarium area
Meet up with us at Main Street Billiards (215 S. Main St) with your team of up to 6 people and see if you have what it takes to be crowned champions! The top team will win a prize. Food and drinks available for purchase.

Adult Board Game Night 
Tuesdays, December 19, January 16, February 20, 7-8:30 p.m. Conference Room B
Calling all tabletop board gamers! We will have different games available to play but feel free to bring one of your favorites from home!No registration required. 

CRAFTS

Wine Cork and Scrabble Tile Decorations
Monday, December 4, 7 p.m. Ages 13 and up. Conference Room A
Come create two cute winter-themed decorations. Make a tree using wine corks and a short phrase using Scrabble tiles. Registration is required.

Hongbao “Red Envelope” Mini Lantern 
Monday, February 5, 7 p.m. Ages 13 and up. Conference Room A
Celebrate Chinese New Year by making your very own mini lantern! Registration is required. 

Switch-It-Painting 
Wednesday, February 7, 7 p.m. Multipurpose Room
Enjoy a fun, collaborative take on painting a still life. Start painting on one canvas, switch to painting the next canvas at each timed interval - and repeat. Registration is required.


WINTER CONCERT SERIES
In the Multipurpose Room. Registration is required for each concert.

Curtis Taylor
Sunday, December 17, 2 p.m.
Curtis Taylor’s unique blend of soulfulness, harmonic sensibilities, and rhythm melt together for an unforgettable sound that directly connects with the soul of the listener. Featuring music and discussion, this is a great program for all ages.

CAMÉ
Sunday, January 7, 2 p.m. 
CAMÉ is a women’s vocal quartet originally named for the first letter in each member’s name. The group added a fifth member in 2023, expanding to a quintet. The group sings a broad range of classical works including traditional hymns, modern arrangements, and songs in various languages.

Double Play Flute and Tuba 
Sunday, February 4, 2 p.m. 
Great Stories in Music. Double Play Flute and Tuba presents their own unique arrangements of music from the Baroque to Broadway.


Winter Wonder Library

Fire and Ice Weekend (See calendar.rhpl.org for date and time). All Ages.

Join us for seasonal fun at our Winter Wonder Library event. Come together as our garden becomes a magically brighter place. Warm up with some hot cocoa, capture memories at our "best in snow" photobooth, and enjoy other various activities throughout the library. No registration required.

OUTREACH SERVICES

For a complete listing of all of our programs, detailed descriptions, and to register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or scan the QR code. Registration opens one month in advance of the program. Questions? Call 248-650-7150 or email help@rhpl.org.


OUTREACH

ELL Book Club: Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
Thursdays, December 7-February 29, 10-11:30 a.m. Conference Room A Note: there will be no meetings on December 28 and January 4.

Meet with Rebecca and other English language learners to read a book and talk about it in a friendly setting. Copies of the book will be available at the first meeting. Contact rebecca.lafave@rhpl.org with questions. Registration is required.

English Matters: ELL Conversation Group
Tuesdays, January 9-March 26, 10-11:30 a.m.
Thursdays, January 11-March 28, 7-8:30 p.m.
Saturdays, January 13- March 30, 10-11:30 a.m. 
Conference Room A
Our conversation groups are a time to come together and discuss hometowns, food, hobbies, jobs, and other informal topics. Joining a group will 
introduce you to new friends and a great time! For further information, contact Mariano at Mariano.Cadiz@rhpl.org. Registration is required.

American Culture 
Mondays, February 5-26, 10-11:30 a.m. Conference Room A

Join Mariano for an informal group discussion. This group is open to all ELL students and newcomers. We will discuss and share our own experiences and observations regarding the customs and manners of American culture. For further information, contact Mariano at Mariano.Cadiz@rhpl.org. Registration is required.

Memory Cafe
Thursday, December 14, 2-3:30 p.m. Multipurpose Room

Memory Cafe is a welcoming place for people with memory challenges and their care partners to socialize in a safe and friendly environment. Please note that this is not a respite program. Registration is required. Questions? Call Outreach Services at 248-650-7150 or send an email to outreach@rhpl.org

Adaptive Technology TrainingBy appointment
Are you living with vision loss and would like to 
learn how to continue using your smartphone and computer? Our adaptive tech trainer, Marsha Katona, can demonstrate how built-in features and apps make technology accessible to those with visual impairments. Call 248-650-7150 to make an appointment.


eCards
RHPL now offers the 
option to apply online for an instant library card. These eCards are available for immediate use for residents with a valid address. eCards offer free 24 hour access to all digital materials including eBooks and eAudio, movies, TV series, music, databases, and other downloadable and streaming content, all from the comfort of home. For full access to materials, services, and programming, visit the library in-person and update your card to get everything you need from RHPL.


EUREKA LAB | MAKERSPACE

This makerspace houses tools, software, and technology to help you learn a new skill, grow your hobbies, or build pieces and parts from scratch. Visit rhpl.org/eureka-lab for a list of equipment, a 360° tour, and to make an appointment.

For a complete listing of all of our programs, detailed descriptions, and to register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or scan the QR code. Registration opens one month in advance of the program. Questions? Call 248-650-7130 or email help@rhpl.org.

Intro to Mechanical and Graphic Design Workshop
Wednesdays, December 6, January 10, February 7, 6-8 p.m. Ages 7 and up. Makerspace

Get help with Onshape, Tinkercad, and Inkscape. Drop in with specific questions or ideas to workshop with our specialist. Note, this is a drop-in workshop so there won’t be a targeted lesson for the group. No registration required. 

Engraved Holiday Ornaments
Wednesday, December 13, 6-8 p.m. Ages 8 and up. Makerspace
Back by popular demand! Come use our Glowforge laser cutter to engrave a personalized holiday ornament or decor item. Registration is required. 

Makerspace Teen Night
Wednesdays, December 20, January 17, and February 21, 6-8 p.m. Ages 12-18. Makerspace

Our first meeting will provide RHPL teens with an introduction to the Makerspace. After the tour, we will discuss individual interests and aspects of the space to orient future Makerspace teen nights. Registration is required.

Creating Your Own Personalized Stamps
Wednesday, January 3, 6-8 p.m. Ages 8 and up. Makerspace
Make your own personalized rubber ink stamps. Registration is required. 

Creating Your Own Personalized Mugs Wednesday, January 24, 6-8 p.m. Ages 8 and up. Makerspace
Make your own personalized ceramic mugs. Registration required.

Crafts at the Makerspace
Wednesdays, January 31, February 14, February 28, 6-8 p.m. Ages 8 and up. Makerspace
Join us for a surprise Makerspace craft. Registration is required. 


Meet our newest Makerspace addition!

The new Bambu Lab X1-Carbon FDM Printer is up and running. With super fast speeds and the ability to print multiple colors in one design, this printer will meet all your 3D needs. Sign up for an appointment or request a print at rhpl.org/eureka-lab. Patrons aged 12-18 are welcome to attend Makerspace Teen Night to learn more.


TEEN PROGRAMS 
For a complete listing of all of our programs, detailed descriptions, and to register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or scan the QR code. Registration opens one month in advance of the program. Questions? Call 248-650-7130 or email help@rhpl.org 

Video Game Tournament 
Wednesdays, December 6, January 3, February 7, 7-8:30 p.m. See online calendar for location
Show your skills at one of our monthly video game tournaments! No registration required.

Teen Advisory Board (TAB) 
Wednesdays, December 13, January 10, February 14, 7-8:30 p.m. Conference Room A

Available in hybrid online and in-person meetings. Share your opinions on teen programs, prizes, displays, and other library matters at these fun-filled meetings. Please fill out the RHPL TAB application on the Teen Services page of the RHPL website. Contact the teen librarian at teen@rhpl.org for more information.

Basic Technology Help for Seniors
Saturdays, December 16, January 13, February 10, 12-1 p.m. Conference Room A
Interested in earning community service hours for NHS or Key Club? Contact the teen librarian at teen@rhpl.org to volunteer.

Makerspace Teen Night
Wednesdays, December 20, January 17, February 21, 
6-8 p.m. Ages 12-18. Makerspace
Our first meeting will provide RHPL teens with an introduction to the Makerspace. After the tour, we will discuss individual interests and aspects of the space to orient future Makerspace teen nights. Registration is required.

RHPL Players Guild (RPG) 
Wednesdays, December 27, January 24, February 28, 7-8:30 p.m. Conference Room A

Join other teens for tabletop games, including board games, card games, role-playing games, and more! No registration required.

Guided Meditation for Teens
Wednesday, January 10, 7 p.m.Ages 13-18. Multipurpose Room
Finals have you stressed out? Get some relief with guided meditation and yoga to clear your mind before your exams. Yoga isn't about being able to touch your toes; it's what you learn on the way down that matters.

Nerf @ Night 
Friday, January 26, 6:45 - 9 p.m. Ages 13-18What's more fun than a Nerf battle? A Nerf battle in the library after hours! We’re taking over the library for an epic Nerf war after the library closes. Register with your RHPL card, which will admit up to two people. Registration is required.



YOUTH SERVICES

For a complete listing of all of our programs, detailed descriptions, and to register, visit calendar.rhpl.org or scan the QR code. Registration opens one week in advance of the program. Questions? Call 248-650-7140 or email help@rhpl.org.


Storybook Trail
December 1-31. All Ages. Downtown Rochester
Visit Downtown Rochester’s Big Bright Light Show to take a walk on our storybook trail. We’ll provide a map to guide your journey to each page. Enjoy the story at your own pace and make sure to stop in at each participating business! No registration required.

Stretch Repair
Monday, December 4, January 15, February 5, 6-8 p.m. Ages 8-12. Storyroom
Our favorite library giraffe, Stretch, is in need of some TLC. Come help Ms. Kim do a little paper mache mending (remember to wear old clothes!) 8-12 year olds only. No caregivers or younger siblings. Registration is required.

Holiday Book Tree Take & Make
Monday, December 4, all day. Ages 5-12. 
Create your own holiday tree made from a book. Pick up your kit at the Youth Services Desk. Registration is required.

Baby (Ugly) Holiday Sweater Party! 
Saturday, December 9, 10 a.m. Ages 0-2 with a caregiver. Multipurpose Room
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer at our Baby Ugly Sweater Holiday party. Dress your baby in the most hilariously ugly sweater you can find or create! Siblings are welcome, but activities are for babies only. Registration is required. 

LEGO™ Club
Tuesdays, December 12, January 16, February 13, 6 p.m. Ages 5-12 with a caregiver. Multipurpose Room
A club where creativity knows no bounds! Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time builder, everyone is welcome. The Library provides the LEGOs™, please leave your bricks at home. Separate registration is required for each date.

PAWS for Reading
Wednesdays, December 13 and 27, January 10 and 24, February 14 and 28, 6:30 p.m. Ages 4 and up. Youth Room
Practice your reading with a therapy dog. For more details, visit calendar.rhpl.org. Registration is required.

Parent Tween Craft Night
Thursday, December 14, 6 p.m. Grades 4-6. Storyroom
Tweens and their parents are invited to join us for a special craft night at the library! Enjoy quality time together while creating some beautiful crafts and memories. Registration is required.

Battle of the Books Coach Meeting
Saturday, December 16, 11:00 a.m. Adult coaches of Battle of the Books participants. Multipurpose Room
Learn everything you need for a successful battle. The coach meeting will be recorded if you are unable 
to attend. No registration required. 

Evening Family Storytime
Thursdays, December 21, January 18, February 15, 7 p.m. All ages. Storyroom
Come to the library for a special monthly themed storytime and project for the whole family. Separate registration is required for each date. 

Kids Yoga
Wednesdays, December 27 and January 3, 10 a.m. Ages 5 and up. Multipurpose Room

Join instructors from Updog Yoga as they guide you through a series of poses designed to help you reflect and connect. Separate registration is required for each date. 

Noon Year Party!
Saturday, December 30, 11 a.m. All ages. Multipurpose Room
Come listen to a story, create crafts, and make your wishes for the New Year. We will ring it in by throwing confetti and counting down to the “noon” year together. Registration is required.

Preschool Spanish Hour with Bright Loritos 
Mondays, January 8 and 22, February 12, 10 a.m. Ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Multipurpose Room
Join instructors from Bright Loritos World Languages for Kids for an hour of learning and fun in Spanish! Activities will include storytime, crafts, and playtime. No prior knowledge of Spanish is necessary. Separate registration is required for each date. 

Early Lit Group: Winter Storytime
Registration for the Winter Storytime session will begin on Monday, January 8, with Storytimes beginning the following week and continuing for 6 weeks. There are many different storytimes offered during this session, detailed descriptions can be found online at calendar.rhpl.org. 

Mini Yarn Hat Take & Make
Wednesday, January 10, All Day. Ages 8-12. 
Create the perfect (and cutest) winter craft with this Mini Yarn Hat Take & Make! Pick up your kit at the Youth Services Desk. Registration is required. 

Free Play Saturday!
Saturdays, January 13 and February 3, 10 a.m. Ages 1-5 with a caregiver. Multipurpose Room
Join Wendy for a fun-filled hour of play based learning for toddlers and preschoolers. Separate registration is required for each date.

Dramatic Play for Literacy
Saturday, January 20, 11 a.m. Ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Multipurpose Room
Join Ms. Kim in this hour of play where preschoolers will be given the opportunity to discover literacy concepts with their caregivers via themed dramatic play. Younger siblings are welcome, but the activity will be limited to those ages 3-5. Registration is required. 

Afternoon Movie at the Library
Monday, February 5, 2 p.m. All Ages. Multipurpose Room
Join us for a cozy afternoon movie on your day off from school! Wear your coziest clothes, pack your blankies, pillows, and stuffies and cuddle up to watch Disney & Pixar’s Elemental on the big screen at the library. No registration required. 

Great Backyard Bird Count
Friday, February 16-Monday, February 19, all day. All ages. Youth Room
Participate in the worldwide Great Backyard Bird Count! Stop by the Youth desk for directions, walk along the Paint Creek Trail to see what birds you find, and get a prize when you finish. No registration required.

Leapin’ Leap Year!
Thursday, February 29, 6:30 p.m. All ages. Multipurpose Room
Wait, why are there 29 days in February this year!? Come learn all about it while enjoying crafts and games associated with Leap Day. Registration is required.

Preschool Fair
Saturday, February 10, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Multipurpose Room
Are you a caregiver searching for the perfect preschool for your little one? Look no further! You are invited to our Preschool Fair where you can explore a variety of local preschool options and meet with providers to find the best fit for your child. No registration required.


Winter Wonder Library
Fire and Ice Weekend (see online calendar for date and time). All Ages.
Join us for seasonal fun at our Winter Wonder Library event. Come together as our garden becomes a magically brighter place. Warm up with some hot cocoa, capture memories at our "best in snow" photobooth, and enjoy other various activities throughout the library. No registration 
required.