Happy holidays from the Des Moines Public Library. This week, we have plenty of crafts and STEM activities to help whet your creative whistle. Come to the library to grab your holiday reads, and check out these great activities. Go to our online events calendar for a full listing. You can also sign up for our email newsletter, where you'll learn more about events and programs, book suggestions, and more. Don't forget - all branches of the library will be closed next Monday, December 24, and Tuesday, December 25.
ON THE BLOG:
This week on the blog, we're going to be talking about your favorite books of 2018. On Wednesday, we'll count down the 10 most-requested non-fiction books of the year at the library. On Friday, we'll count down the 10 most-requested fiction books. These lists are based on the requests made by our patrons.
We'll also have a new podcast tomorrow. Barry Phipps, author of Between Gravity and What Cheer, a book of Iowa photographs. Phipps is an Iowa City-based multimedia artist. After moving to Iowa City in 2012, Phipps began traveling across Iowa, taking photographs across the state. Phipps' work is on display at the Central Library Art Gallery, and he'll be coming to the Central Library to discuss the book on January 23. Phipps and host Aaron Gernes talk about what drew him to the project. He'll also talk about his background as part of a Chicago rock band, his life as a DJ, and what he's working on now.
Don't forget to read last week's posts too. We asked our staff what book changed their life, and we met another librarian - Carrie, who helps pick the books that appear on our stacks.
Maker Monday: Clothespin Superheroes, Fairies, and More
Monday, December 17, 4:00 PM, Central Library
Create a superhero, fairy, or another fantastic character using our crafty supplies. We’ll have clothespins, fabric, yarn, and other materials for you to work with. Children in grades K-2 should have an adult present. Please register in advance to guarantee supplies.
A Very Merry Rosie Holiday Storytime
Monday, December 17, 6:30 PM, South Side Library
Rosie is bringing a festive spirit to the South Side Library. Join us for holiday stories, songs, rhymes, and games. Afterward, families can create a craft, meet Rosie, and even take a picture with her. This is an all ages event, so bring out the whole family for the fun!
Youth Chess Club
Tuesday, December 18, 4:00 PM, East Side Library
All skill levels are welcome to our monthly chess club. Practice, watch, and pick up tips, tricks, and strategies. We’ll help you find someone to play with, and we’ll have snacks as well. For ages 8-18.
Youth Makerspace: Augmented Reality
Wednesday, December 19, 2:30 PM, Forest Avenue Library
You don't need a headset to delve into virtual reality. Come and check out some cool apps and games that will introduce you to augmented reality. For elementary school students. No registration required.
Teen Winter Bash
Wednesday, December 19, 3:00 PM, South Side Library
Teens! Celebrate the upcoming Winter Break with South's Teen Winter Bash. Join us for games, crafts, holiday snacks, hot chocolate, and more! For Teens ages 12-18.
LEGO Fridays
Friday, December 21, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, Franklin Avenue Library
We’re bringing the LEGOs out so you can have fun. Build castles, skyscrapers, cities, and more during this drop-in event. Children should be supervised by a parent or guardian.
Mary Poppins Sing-A-Long
Friday, December 21, 3:00 PM, North Side Library
Before Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda, there was Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke. See the movie that put “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” into the dictionary and sing along! We’ll have popcorn and crafts for everyone to enjoy. Feel free to bring a blanket and covered drink with you.
Last Modified April 24, 2024