COMING SOON: Summer Reading Challenge

The 2024 Summer Reading Challenge starts Monday, June 3! Find more information on the program HERE, and learn all about our special Summer Reading Kickoff Party on June 2 HERE!

Event List

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

Primary tabs

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

Family Storytime

Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 10:15am - 10:45am
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn, Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool
Event Details:

Listen to silly stories, sing songs, dance to music, and make art! Join us at Forest Avenue Library for Family Storytime every Wednesday morning at 10:15 A.M. Family...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Birth-Preschool
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn, Storytimes
Event Details:

Listen to silly stories, sing songs, dance to music, and make art! Join us at Forest Avenue Library for Family Storytime every Wednesday morning at 10:15 A.M.

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.

This event is in the "Teens" group.

Des Moines Art Center: Creative Journaling Workshop

Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Teens
Event Details:

Come explore creative writing, poetry, drawing and dance! Using Art Activity cards of her own design, teaching artist Aminah will take you on a journey through the art of the Des M...

Required
Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 14
Event Details:

Come explore creative writing, poetry, drawing and dance!

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.

Glowforge Training

Thursday, July 11, 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 "Adults" group.

Take and Make: Tote Bag Stenciling

All Day 7/15 - 7/17
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 stencil a tote bag. For more inspiration, use your library card to access crafty videos on Creativebug. While supplies la...

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 stencil a tote bag. For more inspiration, use your library card to access crafty videos on Creativebug. While supplies last. 

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

Art Cart Mondays

Monday, July 15, 2024 at 10:00am - 7:00pm
North Side Children’s Area at North Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Event Details:

Get creative at North Side! Drop-in to the library on Mondays during June and July to enjoy a variety of arts and crafts supplies.

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

Get creative at North Side! Drop-in to the library on Mondays during June and July to enjoy a variety of arts and crafts supplies.

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.

The Art of Expression: Barbie Trashion Show

Monday, July 15, 2024 at 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
Teens
Event Details:

The Art of Expression is a monthly program for teens to learn and create different types of art in a relaxed atmosphere.  On July 15, create your own repurposed Barbie outf...

Required
Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Educational
Required
Seats Remaining: 39
Event Details:

The Art of Expression is a monthly program for teens to learn and create different types of art in a relaxed atmosphere. 

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

ASAP Mondays: Drumming Workshop

Monday, July 15, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Fernando Aveiga moved to Iowa from Ecuador, and performs in the band Parranderos Latin Combo. On Mondays in July (except the 1st), 4–5 p.m., he will also lead ASAP Mondays: Drummin...

Required
Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Required
Seats Remaining: 15
Event Details:

Fernando Aveiga moved to Iowa from Ecuador, and performs in the band Parranderos Latin Combo. On Mondays in July (except the 1st), 4–5 p.m., he will also lead ASAP Mondays: Drumming classes!

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.

Rubber Eraser Stamps

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 2:30pm - 3:30pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Teens
Event Details:

Join us for an exciting and creative library program where teens can unleash their artistic talents while learning the craft of rubber stamp making! In this hands-on workshop, part...

Required
Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 13
Event Details:

Join us for an exciting and creative library program where teens can unleash their artistic talents while learning the craft of rubber stamp making!

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

Art in the Summer: 3-D Winter Scene

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children
Event Details:

It may be hot outside, but we will beat the summer heat by creating a 3-dimensional snowy winter scene you can take home.   For children ages 6 and up.

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Birth-Preschool, Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Event Details:

It may be hot outside, but we will beat the summer heat by creating a 3-dimensional snowy winter scene you can take home.

 

For children ages 6 and up.

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 "Birth-Preschool" group.

Family Storytime

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 10:15am - 10:45am
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn, Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool
Event Details:

Listen to silly stories, sing songs, dance to music, and make art! Join us at Forest Avenue Library for Family Storytime every Wednesday morning at 10:15 A.M. Family...

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Birth-Preschool
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn, Storytimes
Event Details:

Listen to silly stories, sing songs, dance to music, and make art! Join us at Forest Avenue Library for Family Storytime every Wednesday morning at 10:15 A.M.

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.

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

Hack That Painting

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 11:30am - 1:00pm
North Side Meeting Room at North Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Bring your creativity and get ready to have some silly fun! Tweens and teens ages 8-18 can join us at North Side to hack that painting. Choose a pre-made painting or printed pictur...

Required
Library Branch: North Side Library
Room: North Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 20
Event Details:

Bring your creativity and get ready to have some silly fun! Tweens and teens ages 8-18 can join us at North Side to hack that painting. Choose a pre-made painting or printed picture and use our materials to add your own spin on things!

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.
This event is in the "Teens" group.

Let's Go Make & Fly a Kite!

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 3:30pm - 5:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Come to South Side Library to try your hand at designing your very own kite, then take it outside on the library lawn and see if you can fly it! Ages 8 and up. While supplie...

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

Come to South Side Library to try your hand at designing your very own kite, then take it outside on the library lawn and see if you can fly it!

Ages 8 and up.

While supplies last. 

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.

Des Moines Art Center: Creative Journaling Workshop

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Teens
Event Details:

Come explore creative writing, poetry, drawing and dance! Using Art Activity cards of her own design, teaching artist Aminah will take you on a journey through the art of the Des M...

Required
Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 14
Event Details:

Come explore creative writing, poetry, drawing and dance!

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.

Glowforge Training

Thursday, July 18, 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 "Adults" group.

Summer Camp Throwback Crafts

Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 6:00pm - 7:30pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Adults
Event Details:

Do you miss the fun you had doing arts and crafts at summer camp? If so, join us at the South Side Library for an fun evening of summer camp crafts geared toward grown-ups. We'll h...

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

Do you miss the fun you had doing arts and crafts at summer camp? If so, join us at the South Side Library for an fun evening of summer camp crafts geared toward grown-ups. We'll have music, snacks and plenty of glue and glitter!

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.

Teen Bubble Tea Party

Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 6:30pm - 7:30pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Age Group:
Teens
Event Details:

Stop at the library to make your own bubble tea with tapioca pearls and different tea flavors. Whether you're a bubble tea aficionado or curious newcomer, this event promises to be...

Required
Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Required
Seats Remaining: 15
Event Details:

Stop at the library to make your own bubble tea with tapioca pearls and different tea flavors. Whether you're a bubble tea aficionado or curious newcomer, this event promises to be a fun-filled and delicious experience for all!

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.

Snippets: A Writers' Workshop for Short Works 2024

Friday, July 19, 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 "Birth-Preschool" group.
This event is in the "Children" group.

Storytime at the Heritage Carousel

Friday, July 19, 2024 at 10:30am - 11:15am
Off Site
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children
Event Details:

Join Ms. Alicia at the Heritage Carousel for a special storytime for the whole family! We will enjoy stories, songs, and movement together. After storytime, there will be a craf...

Offsite Event
Library Branch: Off Site
Age Group: Birth-Preschool, Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Event Details:

Join Ms. Alicia at the Heritage Carousel for a special storytime for the whole family!

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

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

Inclement Weather

This program is hosted outdoors. In case of inclement weather please check back here for updates. 

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

Community Crafting - Making Greeting Cards

Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Teens, Adults
Event Details:

Have fun making greeting cards using layers of patterned paper.  All supplies provided – cards, envelopes, lots and lots of pretty paper!  The inside of the card will be ...

Required
Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens, Adults
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Required
Seats Remaining: 15
Event Details:

Have fun making greeting cards using layers of patterned paper.  All supplies provided – cards, envelopes, lots and lots of pretty paper!  The inside of the card will be blank so you can later write your own perso

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

Crafternoon

Saturday, July 20, 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 "Birth-Preschool" group.
This event is in the "Children" group.

GO Bag: I SPY Colors Scavenger Hunt

All Day
South Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational, Play & Learn, Take & Make
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children
Event Details:

Stop by South Side Library and pick up a Get Outside (GO) Bag full of fun activities and crafts to do outdoors! While Supplies Last  

Library Branch: South Side Library
Age Group: Birth-Preschool, Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Educational, Play & Learn, Take & Make
Event Details:

Stop by South Side Library and pick up a Get Outside (GO) Bag full of fun activities and crafts to do outdoors!

While Supplies Last

 

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

Art Cart Mondays

Monday, July 22, 2024 at 10:00am - 7:00pm
North Side Children’s Area at North Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
Birth-Preschool, Children, Teens
Event Details:

Get creative at North Side! Drop-in to the library on Mondays during June and July to enjoy a variety of arts and crafts supplies.

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

Get creative at North Side! Drop-in to the library on Mondays during June and July to enjoy a variety of arts and crafts supplies.

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.
This event is in the "Teens" group.

ASAP Mondays: Drumming Workshop

Monday, July 22, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Age Group:
Children, Teens
Event Details:

Fernando Aveiga moved to Iowa from Ecuador, and performs in the band Parranderos Latin Combo. On Mondays in July (except the 1st), 4–5 p.m., he will also lead ASAP Mondays: Drummin...

Required
Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Play & Learn
Required
Seats Remaining: 15
Event Details:

Fernando Aveiga moved to Iowa from Ecuador, and performs in the band Parranderos Latin Combo. On Mondays in July (except the 1st), 4–5 p.m., he will also lead ASAP Mondays: Drumming classes!

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 "Children" group.

Legofy Yourself

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 2:30pm - 3:30pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Age Group:
Children
Event Details:

Let’s make minifigures! In this fun program, you’ll get the chance to see the process of making materials out of resin and then decorate your own minifigure. 

Required
Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Storytimes
Required
Seats Remaining: 15
Event Details:

Let’s make minifigures! In this fun program, you’ll get the chance to see the process of making materials out of resin and then decorate your own minifigure. 

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.