Adventure Pass Changes in 2025

Due to software issues affecting all libraries using the service, the Des Moines Public Library’s Iowa Adventure Pass program will no longer be available in 2025. Any reservation already made for 2025 will be honored, but we encourage anyone with a current reservation to print those passes immediately. Customers can make new reservations for passes that must be used by December 31, 2024. We hope to reintroduce the service at a later time, and we apologize for the inconvenience. 

Event List

Filters
Age Group

I Spy: Dinosaurs

All Day 11/11 - 11/24
Central Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Come to the Central Youth area to find all the dinosaurs! Read about our prehistoric pals, and when you've found them all, stop at the Youth desk to pick out your prize!   ...

Library Branch: Central Library
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Play & Learn
Event Details:

Come to the Central Youth area to find all the dinosaurs! Read about our prehistoric pals, and when you've found them all, stop at the Youth desk to pick out your prize!

 

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Jasper Rabbit Scavenger Hunt

All Day 11/18 - 11/24
Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Gaming
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Find all of the pictures hiding in the children's area to receive a prize.

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Gaming
Event Details:

Find all of the pictures hiding in the children's area to receive a prize.

Corn necklace made from pipe cleaners and pony beads.

Drop-in Craft: Corn Necklace

All Day 11/18 - 11/27
Central Library Children’s Area at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Did you enjoy corn this summer? What about popcorn while watching a movie? The corn we eat today was first discovered and grown by Native Americans. Through trade and sharing growi...

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Children’s Area
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Event Details:

Did you enjoy corn this summer? What about popcorn while watching a movie? The corn we eat today was first discovered and grown by Native Americans.

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.

Children’s Program

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

Moana Scavenger Hunt!

All Day 11/18 - 11/27
South Side Library
Program Type:
Gaming
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Event Details:

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!

Library Branch: South Side Library
Age Group: Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Program Type: Gaming
Event Details:

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!

Native American Heritage Month Scavenger Hunt

All Day 11/19 - 11/27
Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Let's honor Native American Heritage Month by learning about some of the incredible Native American and Indigenous Americans who have had an impact on our history and culture! Find...

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

Let's honor Native American Heritage Month by learning about some of the incredible Native American and Indigenous Americans who have had an impact on our history and culture! Find them all and win an amazing prize! Best for ages 6+

LEGO Fridays

Friday, November 22, 2024 at 10:00am - 4:00pm
Franklin Avenue Children’s Area at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Beat the boredom on Fridays by visiting the library and using your imagination to create amazing things with our LEGOs.

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Children’s Area
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Play & Learn
Event Details:

Beat the boredom on Fridays by visiting the library and using your imagination to create amazing things with our LEGOs.

The Outreach Project Logo

The Outreach Project

Friday, November 22, 2024 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 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 Meeting Room 1, 2
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.
An image of the promotional poster for Memory Café.

Memory Café

Friday, November 22, 2024 at 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Memory Cafés provide a welcoming social gathering for people living with dementia and their care partners, focusing on person-centered care for those living with dementia. We'll be...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Health & Wellness
Event Details:

Memory Cafés provide a welcoming social gathering for people living with dementia and their care partners, focusing on person-centered care for those living with dementia.

Creepy Carrots with Jasper Rabbit!

Central gets creepy with Jasper Rabbit!

Friday, November 22, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3 at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Jasper Rabbit is coming to Central, and things are getting creepy! We'll read together, make a craft, and you can have your picture taken with Jasper!

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

Jasper Rabbit is coming to Central, and things are getting creepy! We'll read together, make a craft, and you can have your picture taken with Jasper!

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.

Paddington 2 Poster

Movie Watch Party: Paddington 2

Friday, November 22, 2024 at 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Movies
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Experience this whimsical and heartwarming adventure starring the beloved Paddington Bear! Join us for popcorn and a fun activity while we watch Paddington 2. Rated PG.

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Movies
Event Details:

Experience this whimsical and heartwarming adventure starring the beloved Paddington Bear! Join us for popcorn and a fun activity while we watch Paddington 2. Rated PG.

Text that says "Family Stem Challenge" over a background of scientific equipment

Family STEM Challenge: Penny Spinners

Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 10:00am - 12:00pm
Franklin Avenue Children’s Area at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Event Details:

The whole family can visit the library and take on our Family STEM Challenge.  This month, come and make a lucky penny spinner.  Materials will be available between 10:00...

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Children’s Area
Age Group: Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:

The whole family can visit the library and take on our Family STEM Challenge.  This month, come and make a lucky penny spinner.  Materials will be available between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.

 

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Dino-Mite Saturdays

Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 10:00am - 4:00pm
East Side Children’s Area at East Side Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Join us every Saturday in November for a roaring good time at our Dino-Mite Saturdays! Bring your little ones to the library for a hands-on, imaginative play experience using our g...

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

Join us every Saturday in November for a roaring good time at our Dino-Mite Saturdays! Bring your little ones to the library for a hands-on, imaginative play experience using our giant foam dinosaur bones.

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.

Mindfulness Day

Mindfulness Day at the Library

Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 10:00am - 5:00pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Teens, Adults
Event Details:

The 2024 Mindfulness Day will provide patrons the space to spend a day engaging in a variety of contemplative practices that will give them the opportunity for peaceful space to ge...

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

The 2024 Mindfulness Day will provide patrons the space to spend a day engaging in a variety of contemplative practices that will give them the opportunity for peaceful space to get centered before the busy holiday season begins.

Compre. Coma. Viva Saludable (Buy. Eat. Live Healthy)

Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 10:30am - 12:00pm
North Side Meeting Room at North Side Library
Program Type:
Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Aprenda a hacer recetas fáciles, nutritivas y baratas con una instructora de Iowa State University - Extension.  Durante esta clase de 8 semanas, aprenderá a:Ahorrar dinero: c...

Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Health & Wellness
Event Details:

Aprenda a hacer recetas fáciles, nutritivas y baratas con una instructora de Iowa State University - Extension.  Durante esta clase de 8 semanas, aprenderá a:

Ahorrar dinero: comprar y gastar menos en sus alimentos.

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.

Food Allergies

We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Novel November Write-In

Novel November Write-In

Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 10:30am - 4:30pm
Central Library Meeting Room 3 at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Skip the scramble for outlets at coffee bars and come to the library to connect with your fellow writers or to write individually! Feel free to stay all day or just stop by fo...

Required
Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 3
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 47
Event Details:

Skip the scramble for outlets at coffee bars and come to the library to connect with your fellow writers or to write individually! Feel free to stay all day or just stop by for a quick visit.

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.

Dinovember Take & Make

All Day 11/25 - 11/27
East Side Children’s Area at East Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Celebrate Dinovember with a month-long Take and Make adventure at the library! Pick up your Dinovember kit filled with fun, dino-themed activities that will keep young paleontologi...

Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Children’s Area
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Event Details:

Celebrate Dinovember with a month-long Take and Make adventure at the library! Pick up your Dinovember kit filled with fun, dino-themed activities that will keep young paleontologists busy all month long.

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.

I Spy: Native American Heritage Month

All Day 11/25 - 11/27
Central Library
Program Type:
Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Come to the Central Youth area to celebrate Native American Heritage Month by finding pictures of some of our favorite authors! And when you've found all the images, stop at the Yo...

Library Branch: Central Library
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Play & Learn
Event Details:

Come to the Central Youth area to celebrate Native American Heritage Month by finding pictures of some of our favorite authors! And when you've found all the images, stop at the Youth desk to pick out your prize!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Toddler Storytime

Monday, November 25, 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)

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.

orange and black text that says "Preschool Storytime" with a yellow bird

Preschool Storytime

Monday, November 25, 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.

ASAP Days

ASAP Mondays: Fiber Art

Monday, November 25, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Fiber art uses materials like fabric, yarn, thread, and techniques like weaving, stitching, and tying to make cool projects! At ASAP Mondays with Megan Clausen, we will make a diff...

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

Fiber art uses materials like fabric, yarn, thread, and techniques like weaving, stitching, and tying to make cool projects! At ASAP Mondays with Megan Clausen, we will make a different fiber art project each week. Snack provided.

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.

FormLabs Form 3 Resin 3D Printer Training Class

Monday, November 25, 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: 0
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.

Forest Avenue Library Book Discussion: The House of Eve

Monday, November 25, 2024 at 6:00pm - 6:45pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Book Clubs
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Stop by the Forest Avenue Library to pick up a copy of this month's title, The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson. 

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

Stop by the Forest Avenue Library to pick up a copy of this month's title, The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson. 

Family Storytime

Monday, November 25, 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.

Beyond Birth: Baby's First Year

Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 9:00am - 11:00am
Central Library Family Room at Central Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Beyond Birth: Baby's First Year is a free weekly postpartum support group for parents and their new babies. Facilitated by Blank Children's Hospital, each week will feature a guest...

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Family Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:

Beyond Birth: Baby's First Year is a free weekly postpartum support group for parents and their new babies.

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.