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The Renaissance Scavenger Hunt

All Day 9/17 - 9/23
Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Learn about the incredible artistic and cultural revolution known as The Renaissance! We've hidden pictures of famous people, works of art, and events associated with this historic...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:

Learn about the incredible artistic and cultural revolution known as The Renaissance! We've hidden pictures of famous people, works of art, and events associated with this historic period throughout the library!

ASAP Tuesdays: Kid's Breakdancing

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 3:30pm - 4:30pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

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

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

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

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.
Creative Readers with author Victor Santos reading what makes us human with craft to follow

Creative Readers-From Book to Art!

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Franklin Avenue Children’s Area at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Children will listen to a story and then create a masterpiece while exploring with art and STEM activities. Ages 3 to 8 years old, but younger and older siblings are welcome. &n...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Children’s Area
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Event Details:

Children will listen to a story and then create a masterpiece while exploring with art and STEM activities. Ages 3 to 8 years old, but younger and older siblings are welcome.

 

 

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Switch Party

Level Up: Switch Party!

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Computers & Technology, Gaming
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Join other gamers and test your skills on the Nintendo Switch!  We will have Smash Bros and Mario Kart on the big screen for tournament play with new friends or bring your own...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Computers & Technology, Gaming
Event Details:

Join other gamers and test your skills on the Nintendo Switch!  We will have Smash Bros and Mario Kart on the big screen for tournament play with new friends or bring your own Switch to play on your own.

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.

Sensory Play Hour

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children
Event Details:

Come to South Side for an hour of sensory exploration! From cool textures to fun activities, kids can have a great time learning while doing what they do best: playing! The pr...

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Birth-Preschool, Children
Program Type: Play & Learn
Event Details:

Come to South Side for an hour of sensory exploration!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Switch Gaming

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
North Side Meeting Room at North Side Library
Program Type:
Gaming
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Kids and teens ages 8-18 can enjoy Switch games on the big screen at North Side! We will meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month.

Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Gaming
Event Details:

Kids and teens ages 8-18 can enjoy Switch games on the big screen at North Side! We will meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month.

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Superhero Party!

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3 at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Gaming, Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Library heroes, assemble! Join us at the Central Library to create your dream hero costume, take photos, and play games and activities. We will provide all craft supplies, but if y...

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Gaming, Play & Learn
Event Details:

Library heroes, assemble! Join us at the Central Library to create your dream hero costume, take photos, and play games and activities.

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.

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.

Children’s Program

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

Drop-in STEM Challenge: Straw Rockets

Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 2:00pm - 7:00pm
North Side Children’s Area at North Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Drop into North Side on Wednesdays to enjoy a STEM activity or craft. These activities are planned with grades K-5 in mind, but all are welcome to attend. This week, make a stra...

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

Drop into North Side on Wednesdays to enjoy a STEM activity or craft. These activities are planned with grades K-5 in mind, but all are welcome to attend.

This week, make a straw rocket!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

ASAP Wednesdays: The Painting Studio

Wednesday, September 18, 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.

ASAP Thursdays: Kids’ Breakdance

Thursday, September 19, 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.

EPIC Graphic Novel Book Club

Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Book Clubs
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Are you a graphic novel fan? Join us for our EPIC Graphic Novel BOOK CLUB for ages 7-11. We will briefly chat about this month's book, and work on a fun activity or ...

Required
Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Book Clubs
Required
Seats Remaining: 20
Event Details:

Are you a graphic novel fan? Join us for our EPIC Graphic Novel BOOK CLUB for ages 7-11. We will briefly chat about this month's book, and work on a fun activity or craft related to the book!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Tagged Monarch Butterfly in hand

Monarch Butterfly Tagging

Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 5:30pm - 6:30pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Visit the East Side Library to learn about monarch butterflies and butterfly tagging with Des Moines Parks and Rec! Joel Van Roekel will share information about monarchs,...

Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:

Visit the East Side Library to learn about monarch butterflies and butterfly tagging with Des Moines Parks and Rec!

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.

Outdoor Program

This program is hosted outdoors.  

In case of inclement weather please check back here for updates. 

Lego Quest

LEGO Quest

Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn, Storytimes
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Let's go on a LEGO quest!! Do you love to build? Do you love adventure stories? Do you love problem-solving? Test your skills at LEGO Quest where we read parts of a book and respon...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Play & Learn, Storytimes
Event Details:

Let's go on a LEGO quest!! Do you love to build? Do you love adventure stories? Do you love problem-solving?

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.

Children’s Program

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

Baseball Storytime @ Savage Softball Fields

Friday, September 20, 2024 at 10:30am - 11:30am
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Storytimes
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Step up the plate and join us for a Baseball themed story time at Savage Softball Fields, located right next to the East Side Library and Eastown Park. On Friday morning join us as...

Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Storytimes
Event Details:

Step up the plate and join us for a Baseball themed story time at Savage Softball Fields, located right next to the East Side Library and Eastown Park.

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.

Nintendo Switch Party!

Friday, September 20, 2024 at 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Gaming
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Join us for a Nintendo Switch Party! We will have games like Mario Kart 8 & Super Mario Bros. Ultimate. Feel free to bring your own Switch or share the library’s controllers.

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Gaming
Event Details:

Join us for a Nintendo Switch Party! We will have games like Mario Kart 8 & Super Mario Bros. Ultimate. Feel free to bring your own Switch or share the library’s controllers.

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Furry Tales

Friday, September 20, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
North Side Children’s Area at North Side Library
Program Type:
Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Event Details:

Visit North Side and read to a furry friend from the Animal Rescue League of Iowa's Therapets program!

Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Children’s Area
Age Group: Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Program Type: Health & Wellness
Event Details:

Visit North Side and read to a furry friend from the Animal Rescue League of Iowa's Therapets program!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

ASAP Mondays: Yoga

Monday, September 23, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

ASAP Mondays

Required
Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Educational
Required
Seats Remaining: 12
Event Details:

ASAP Mondays

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.

Family Storytime

Monday, September 23, 2024 at 6:30pm - 7:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children
Event Details:

Join us for our evening Family Storytime at 6:30 p.m.! Kids and caregivers can join us for fun songs, stories and crafts. You can even wear your jammies!  All Ages Welcome!

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

Join us for our evening Family Storytime at 6:30 p.m.! Kids and caregivers can join us for fun songs, stories and crafts. You can even wear your jammies!  All Ages Welcome!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Harvest Time! Scavenger Hunt

All Day 9/24 - 9/30
Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

It's harvest time! We've hidden pictures of some of our favorite fall vegetables throughout the library! Find them all and win an incredible prize! Best for ages 6+

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:

It's harvest time! We've hidden pictures of some of our favorite fall vegetables throughout the library! Find them all and win an incredible prize! Best for ages 6+

ASAP Tuesdays: Kid's Breakdancing

Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 3:30pm - 4:30pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

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

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

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

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.
Creative Readers with author Victor Santos reading what makes us human with craft to follow

Creative Readers-From Book to Art!

Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Franklin Avenue Children’s Area at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Children will listen to a story and then create a masterpiece while exploring with art and STEM activities. Ages 3 to 8 years old, but younger and older siblings are welcome. &n...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Children’s Area
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Event Details:

Children will listen to a story and then create a masterpiece while exploring with art and STEM activities. Ages 3 to 8 years old, but younger and older siblings are welcome.

 

 

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Reading Buddies with ARL TheraPets!

Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 at Central Library
Program Type:
Educational, Health & Wellness, Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Do you love animals? Then visit Central Library to practice reading with and learn about an ARL TheraPet! Engaging with animals is a great way to boost confidence and reduce anxiet...

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Educational, Health & Wellness, Play & Learn
Event Details:

Do you love animals? Then visit Central Library to practice reading with and learn about an ARL TheraPet! Engaging with animals is a great way to boost confidence and reduce anxiety around learning to read!

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.

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.

Image of Lei and the Fire Goddess Book Cover

Tween Book Club

Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
North Side Meeting Room at North Side Library
Program Type:
Book Clubs
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Tweens and teens ages 10-14 can join us for a book club on the last Tuesday of the month. Register for the program here; then stop by North Side to pick up your book to read bef...

Required
Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Book Clubs
Required
Seats Remaining: 6
Event Details:

Tweens and teens ages 10-14 can join us for a book club on the last Tuesday of the month.

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Drop-in Crafternoon: Homemade Windsock

Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at 2:00pm - 7:00pm
North Side Children’s Area at North Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Drop into North Side on Wednesdays to enjoy a STEM activity or craft. These activities are planned with grades K-5 in mind, but all are welcome to attend. This week, we will mak...

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

Drop into North Side on Wednesdays to enjoy a STEM activity or craft. These activities are planned with grades K-5 in mind, but all are welcome to attend.

This week, we will make homemade windsocks with paper tubes and tissue paper!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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