4th of July Closure

All locations of the Des Moines Public Library will be closed Thursday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. All locations will reopen for regular hours on Friday, July 5.

Event List

Age Group
Age Group
Program Type
Library Branch
Ongoing Events
Registration Type

Primary tabs

This event is in the "Children" group.
This event is in the "Teens" group.

ASAP Wednesdays: The Painting Studio

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 3:30pm - 4:30pm
North Side Meeting Room at North Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Calling young artists: Join ASAP Teaching Artist Micah Ferin in the Painting Studio at North Side Library each Wednesday afternoon in September. Try your hand at painting a po...

Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Educational
Event Details:

Calling young artists: Join ASAP Teaching Artist Micah Ferin in the Painting Studio at North Side Library each Wednesday afternoon in September.

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a caregiver over 12 years old.

This event is in the "Children" group.

Art in the Library: Suncatchers

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Create a gorgeous suncatcher out of a mason jar lid. Art in the Library is for children ages 6-12 and requires preregistration.     The Franklin Library is ...

Required
Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 25
Event Details:

Create a gorgeous suncatcher out of a mason jar lid.

Art in the Library is for children ages 6-12 and requires preregistration.  

 

The Franklin Library is located on DART Route #5.

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a caregiver over 12 years old.

This event is in the "Teens" group.

VolunTEENS Work Time

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library Imagination Station at Central Library
Program Type:
Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Teens
Event Details:

If you're between the ages of 12-18 and looking for a fun and rewarding volunteer opportunity, give the library a try! We would love to have your help!

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Imagination Station
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Health & Wellness
Event Details:

If you're between the ages of 12-18 and looking for a fun and rewarding volunteer opportunity, give the library a try! We would love to have your help!

Disclaimer(s)

Central Parking

Free library parking is available in Central's underground parking garage for two hours per visit. Parking around the library is metered at various costs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

FormLabs Form 3 Resin 3D Printer Training Class

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Central Library Tech Central at Central Library
Program Type:
Computers & Technology
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Would you like to use Tech Central's new FormLabs Form 3 resin 3D printer?  Take this required training to learn how!  Participants will learn how to use FormLabs free Pr...

Required
Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Tech Central
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Computers & Technology
Required
Seats Remaining: 8
Event Details:

Would you like to use Tech Central's new FormLabs Form 3 resin 3D printer?  Take this required training to learn how!  Participants will learn how to use FormLabs free PreForm software to prepare their 3D prints for printing at the libra

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Central Parking

Free library parking is available in Central's underground parking garage for two hours per visit. Parking around the library is metered at various costs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

Cooking with Global Food Discovery

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Join Bill Lu from Global Food Discovery in this cooking class. Every week Bill will introduce a simple dish from around the world. Learn how to prepare it, and then enjoy a sample!...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:

Join Bill Lu from Global Food Discovery in this cooking class. Every week Bill will introduce a simple dish from around the world. Learn how to prepare it, and then enjoy a sample! 

Disclaimer(s)

Food Allergies

We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
This event is in the "Birth-Preschool" group.

Wiggles and Giggles

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 10:15am - 10:45am
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3 at Central Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn, Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool
Event Details:

Join us at the Central Library for a fun storytime featuring movement, music, and rhyming! The storytime will take place in the meeting room to allow for social distancing. &nbs...

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3
Age Group: Birth-Preschool
Program Type: Play & Learn, Storytimes
Event Details:

Join us at the Central Library for a fun storytime featuring movement, music, and rhyming! The storytime will take place in the meeting room to allow for social distancing.

 

Disclaimer(s)

Central Parking

Free library parking is available in Central's underground parking garage for two hours per visit. Parking around the library is metered at various costs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

This event is in the "Birth-Preschool" group.

Preschool Storytime

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 10:30am - 11:00am
North Side Meeting Room at North Side Library
Program Type:
Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool
Event Details:

Preschoolers and their caregivers can enjoy stories, rhymes, music, and learn school readiness skills. Afterwards, we will enjoy free-play together.

Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Birth-Preschool
Program Type: Storytimes
Event Details:

Preschoolers and their caregivers can enjoy stories, rhymes, music, and learn school readiness skills. Afterwards, we will enjoy free-play together.

Disclaimer(s)

Accompanying Adults

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

Glowforge Training

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Central Library Tech Central at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Computers & Technology, Educational
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Learn how to use the Glowforge Plus Laser Engraver at Tech Central! This program takes the place of the 1 on 1 Glowforge tutorial, so you will be fully qualified to book and use th...

Required
Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Tech Central
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Computers & Technology, Educational
Required
Seats Remaining: 4
Event Details:

Learn how to use the Glowforge Plus Laser Engraver at Tech Central! This program takes the place of the 1 on 1 Glowforge tutorial, so you will be fully qualified to book and use the Glowforge on your own after this program. 

Disclaimer(s)

Central Parking

Free library parking is available in Central's underground parking garage for two hours per visit. Parking around the library is metered at various costs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

This event is in the "Children" group.
This event is in the "Teens" group.

ASAP Thursdays: Kids’ Breakdance

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

This summer, Breaking became the first competitive dancesport in history to appear at the Summer Olympics. Through ASAP Thursdays at South Side Library, you can now try some of the...

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Event Details:

This summer, Breaking became the first competitive dancesport in history to appear at the Summer Olympics. Through ASAP Thursdays at South Side Library, you can now try some of the basics of breakdancing, free and with your friends.

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a caregiver over 12 years old.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

Gardening with Native Plants Meet-Up

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 5:30pm - 7:00pm
North Side Meeting Room at North Side Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Connect with others interested in environmentally friendly gardens. The focus is on native plants which foster and nourish wildlife. Come to learn and to share your favorite garden...

Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:

Connect with others interested in environmentally friendly gardens. The focus is on native plants which foster and nourish wildlife.

This event is in the "Children" group.
This event is in the "Teens" group.

Craft Club

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Join Craft Club and explore your creativity and skill by learning a new craft each month. We will learn knitting, crochet, sewing, bookbinding, jewelry making and beading, paper ar...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Event Details:

Join Craft Club and explore your creativity and skill by learning a new craft each month. We will learn knitting, crochet, sewing, bookbinding, jewelry making and beading, paper arts, pottery, printmaking, fiber arts and so much more!

This event is in the "Adults" group.

AI and You

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 6:30pm - 7:30pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Computers & Technology, Educational
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Artificial Intelligence is all around us and only becoming more common. Join Meredith Moore, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Drake University, to learn more about AI in ...

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Computers & Technology, Educational
Event Details:

Artificial Intelligence is all around us and only becoming more common. Join Meredith Moore, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Drake University, to learn more about AI in a hands on way. 

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
This event is in the "Adults" group.

Reading on the Margins Book Discussion

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Book Clubs
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Join us once a month to discuss books by underrepresented authors. Our goal is to amplify these voices and experiences while discussing social issues in the context of fiction and ...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Book Clubs
Event Details:

Join us once a month to discuss books by underrepresented authors. Our goal is to amplify these voices and experiences while discussing social issues in the context of fiction and non-fiction books.

This event is in the "Children" group.

STEAM Cart Challenge: Rubber Band Racers

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 6:30pm - 7:30pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Get ready to race with your very own rubber band racer! In this fun and educational activity, you’ll learn how to build a car powered by the stored energy of rubber bands. You’ll g...

Required
Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Play & Learn
Required
Seats Remaining: 15
Event Details:

Get ready to race with your very own rubber band racer! In this fun and educational activity, you’ll learn how to build a car powered by the stored energy of rubber bands.

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Accompanying Adults

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

Snippets: A Writers' Workshop for Short Works 2024

Friday, September 13, 2024 at 10:00am - 11:00am
Central Library Meeting Room 1 at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Snippets: A Writers' Workshop for Shorter Works Please email your submissions to Julia at jmdunt@dmpl.org if you would like them printed out. This group will read and discuss ...

Required
Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 20
Event Details:

Snippets: A Writers' Workshop for Shorter Works Please email your submissions to Julia at jmdunt@dmpl.org if you would like them printed out. This group will read and discuss works out loud.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

The Outreach Project

Friday, September 13, 2024 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library Cafe Gallery at Central Library
Program Type:
Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

The Des Moines Public Library is partnering with area organizations to connect people with community resources. Community advocates will provide information about community re...

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Cafe Gallery
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Health & Wellness
Event Details:

The Des Moines Public Library is partnering with area organizations to connect people with community resources. Community advocates will provide information about community resources like meal sites and shelters.

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
This event is in the "Adults" group.

Free Friday Flicks at Franklin

Friday, September 13, 2024 at 1:30pm - 3:45pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Movies
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

September's presentation is the 2003 romantic drama I Capture the Castle, starring Romola Garai, Rose Byrne, and Bill Nighy. This film is rated R. Free Friday Flicks at Franklin is...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Movies
Event Details:

September's presentation is the 2003 romantic drama I Capture the Castle, starring Romola Garai, Rose Byrne, and Bill Nighy. This film is rated R. Free Friday Flicks at Franklin is typically held on the second Friday of the month.

This event is in the "Teens" group.
This event is in the "Adults" group.

Crafternoon

Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 2:00pm - 4:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Teens, Adults
Event Details:

Spend a few hours with other crafters and work on your knit, crochet, or other craft projects. Please bring your own supplies and projects with you. Pleasant company is provided to...

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens, Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Event Details:

Spend a few hours with other crafters and work on your knit, crochet, or other craft projects. Please bring your own supplies and projects with you. Pleasant company is provided to share ideas and inspiration!

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
This event is in the "Teens" group.
This event is in the "Adults" group.

Community Crafting - Spinners and Weavers Guild

Sunday, September 15, 2024 at 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Teens, Adults
Event Details:

Join members of the Des Moines Weavers and Spinners Guild to weave on a cardboard loom. Weaving is an ancient craft, dating back to Neolithic times approximately 12,000 years ag...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens, Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Event Details:

Join members of the Des Moines Weavers and Spinners Guild to weave on a cardboard loom.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

Take and Make: Felt Bird Bookmark

All Day 9/16 - 9/18
Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Stop by the Forest Avenue Library and pick up materials to create a felt bird bookmark. For more inspiration, use your library card to access crafty videos on Creativebug. While su...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Event Details:

Stop by the Forest Avenue Library and pick up materials to create a felt bird bookmark. For more inspiration, use your library card to access crafty videos on Creativebug. While supplies last. 

This event is in the "Children" group.

Musical Instruments Scavenger Hunt!

All Day 9/16 - 9/28
South Side Library
Program Type:
Educational, Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Kids! Visit South and try our Scavenger Hunt! Drop in and search the library for all of the items on the sheet and win a prize. For youth ages 3 and up. 

Library Branch: South Side Library
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Educational, Play & Learn
Event Details:

Kids! Visit South and try our Scavenger Hunt! Drop in and search the library for all of the items on the sheet and win a prize. For youth ages 3 and up. 

This event is in the "Birth-Preschool" group.

Toddler Storytime

Monday, September 16, 2024 at 10:00am - 10:30am
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool
Event Details:

Toddlers and their caregivers can enjoy introductory stories, songs, music, and movement! For ages 18 months to 36 months.

Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Birth-Preschool
Program Type: Storytimes
Event Details:

Toddlers and their caregivers can enjoy introductory stories, songs, music, and movement! For ages 18 months to 36 months.

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Accompanying Adults

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

Children’s Program

Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a caregiver over 12 years old.

This event is in the "Birth-Preschool" group.

Preschool Storytime

Monday, September 16, 2024 at 10:15am - 10:45am
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool
Event Details:

Join Miss Jennifer for Preschool Storytime on Monday mornings at 10:15 a.m.  There will be stories, rhymes, music, and more. This storytime is recommended for ages three to...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Birth-Preschool
Program Type: Storytimes
Event Details:

Join Miss Jennifer for Preschool Storytime on Monday mornings at 10:15 a.m.  There will be stories, rhymes, music, and more.

This storytime is recommended for ages three to five, but all children are welcome to attend.

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a caregiver over 12 years old.

This event is in the "Adults" group.

The Outreach Project

Monday, September 16, 2024 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library Cafe Gallery at Central Library
Program Type:
Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

The Des Moines Public Library is partnering with area organizations to connect people with community resources. Community advocates will provide information about community re...

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Cafe Gallery
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Health & Wellness
Event Details:

The Des Moines Public Library is partnering with area organizations to connect people with community resources. Community advocates will provide information about community resources like meal sites and shelters.

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.