Monroe County Public Library provides opportunities to local residents to learn, read, connect, and create. The downtown library is located at 303 E. Kirkwood Ave. while the Ellettsville Branch is at 600 W. Temperance St. Both events are free. The Friends of the Library Foundation provides funding for event funding.
Storytime in American Sign Language
Through stories, songs and games, you will learn specific vocabulary in American Sign Language. All are welcome, including caregivers and children aged 3-6. It is 10:30-11 a.m. Friday at the downtown library’s children’s program room. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
Earth Day edition: Meet a scientist
For hands-on activities, Q&A and fun, join four graduate students from Indiana University’s Biology Department on Earth Day. Learn more about their unique work and why they chose to become scientists. This event is for children aged 9-16. However, younger siblings and caregivers are also welcome. It’s in the downtown library meeting room 1B&1C combo, from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
All-Ages Day at Ellettsville Teen Space
Are you curious about the Ellettsville Teen Space but not a teen? All ages are welcome to visit the Ellettsville Teen Space on the fourth Saturday. There’s a DIY studio, video games, and more! Visit the Ellettsville branch from noon to 6 p.m.
Yoga for adults
Discover why yoga is so powerful for maintaining your health in mind, body, and spirit. Beginners can learn the basics while more experienced students go deeper. This class is open to all ages and abilities. Ages 16 and over It’s at 12-1 p.m. Saturdays in Ellettsville meeting space B. Drop by.
Poetry on the Plaza
Enjoy an outdoor performance by local poets to celebrate National Poetry Month. It’s at 4-6 p.m. on Saturday at the East Kirkwood Avenue downtown library plaza. Drop by.
Coffee with friends with Rachel Berenson Perry
The Friends of the Library invite you to join them for a conversation about Rachel Berenson Perry’s book “Painter of the Dunes: a Life of Frank Virgil Dudley”. Frank Virgil Dudley was first introduced to Indiana’s sand dunes by his brother in 1911. He spent the rest of his creative career painting landscapes and capturing the unique beauty and diversity of the area. He became one of the state’s most renowned artists. Seer of and Painter of Dunes are his well-earned titles. They refer to his obsession with the subject matter as well his activism to save the dunes. Preservationists, artists, outdoor enthusiasts, and scientists came together to save the lakeshore from being redeveloped for industrial purposes and preserve it for recreational and scientific research. It’s in the downtown library meeting room 1B at 2:45 p.m. Drop by.
Super Smash Bros. tournament
Are you a Super Smash Bros.champion? Drop by and see what you can do! Ages 12-19. Sunday, 2-5 p.m. at The Ground Floor Teen space
Movers and Shakers at The Banneker Community Center
This silly dance party is a great way to stay fit and active. This monthly event will have you dancing with scarves and shakers as well as parachutes. Free play is available before and after the structured activities. This is a great opportunity for both children and their parents to socialize. It’s at the Banneker community center, 930 W. Seventh St. for ages 2-6. Siblings are always welcomed. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
Books on Tap, Virtual Edition: BYOB
Books on Tap is a book club that has a twist! Enjoy great drinks, a relaxed atmosphere, and a lively discussion about a range of compelling books. BYOB is allowed this month. You can read a book set in a bookstore or library, and then have a drink that is related. TryTequilaMockingbird: Cocktails with A Literary Twist by Tim Federle or any other book. Age 21 and over Zoom will be open from 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
Weekly math homework help for teens
Drop in to receive one-on-1 assistance with math-related assignments, including algebra, geometry and trigonometry. Only for middle and high school students. It’s Mondays, 7-8:45 PM in program room 2, downtown library.
Preschool science and math
Science begins with curiosity! These hands-on science and math activities will help you and your child improve your independent learning skills. It is 10:30 am to 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays in the children’s room at the downtown Library. Drop by.
Talking Tacos
Come chat about relationships, dating and other difficult topics. Enjoy the tacos! Ages 12-19. It is 3:30-4.30 p.m. Tuesday at Ellettsville meetingroom A. Drop by.
Poetry Workshop with Saami ghaus
Celebrate National Poetry Month with local poetSaami Hhaus by getting into the magic of creating stories and poems. No prior experience is required. It is at the downtown library’s Ground Floor Teen space from 5-6:30 pm. Drop by. Ages 12-19
Virtual Evening Storytime
Sing songs, listen to stories and do mindfulness exercises to improve your early literacy skills. Enjoy this virtual evening storytime in your pajamas from the comfort of home. For infants and children up to 6 years old It is Wednesday at 6:30-7:15 on Zoom. Register at mcpl.info/calendar to access the Zoom link.
You should know this: Weather safety with Sam Lashley
While Indiana can experience severe weather on any day of year, the spring season offers more chances for severe thunderstorms. Sam Lashley, National Weather Service meteorologist will discuss weather education, safety and online weather resources. It is at 1-2 p.m. in meeting room A/Bcombo on Thursday, April 28th. Ages 18 years and older Drop in.
Walk for identification of native and invasive plants
Learn about the importance of a native habitat for wildlife, birds, pollinators, and urban environments! Begin by meeting at the library. Then, join Cathy Meyer (retired naturalist, MC-IRIS member) for a walk through downtown. All ages. It’s from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 28th in meeting room 2A of the downtown library. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
Ross Gay celebrates National Poetry Month
The event will take place on Zoom. Ages 16 and over It is 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, April 28th on Zoom. Please register through the Bartholomew library at mybcpl.org/event/6033689.
More events online
This is just a small selection of the weekly library events. Visit mcpl.info/events to see the complete calendar.
