Program Guide
Explore the wide variety of programs and events we offer this summer at all five Boise Public Library locations! From outdoor storytimes for toddlers, to teen hangouts, to crafting and creative writing, there is something for everyone! All events are free, but some require registration. Visit us at boisepubliclibrary.org/calendar for more information, or call 208-972-8200. Be sure to check the calendar frequently as programs are subject to change due to weather conditions.
Reminder: All Library locations will be closed June 19 and July 4. Also, we have a light programming schedule in August.
BABIES, TODDLERS, AND PRESCHOOL
Baby Stories and Play
Share rhymes, songs, stories, and open play time. This program is a great way to meet others in the community and set your baby up for early literacy success! Designed for children ages 2 and under and their caregivers.
Mondays from 10:30–11 a.m. and 2-2:30 p.m.
Tuesdays from 2–3 p.m.
Baby Stories and Play
Wednesdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Thursdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Fridays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Library! at Hillcrest - Canyon Room
BABIES, TODDLERS, AND PRESCHOOL CONT’D
Family Storytime
Enjoy stories, music, movement, and play together. Designed for children ages 5 and under and their caregivers.
Tuesdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Wednesdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Family Storytime
Thursdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Saturdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Kindergarten Countdown
Library! at Hillcrest - Canyon Room
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Kindergarten is almost here! Join us for stories and activities that help kids and caregivers get prepared and excited for the big day.
Kindergarten Countdown Tuesdays, July 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Music Adventures: My Many Colored Days
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Jump into Dr. Seuss’s world of colors! Explore colors and emotions through classical music and movement activities. Fun for the whole family!
Music Adventures:
My Many Colored Days Tuesday, May 6, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Music Carnival
Library! at Hillcrest
An open-house event with many fun things to try. There will be music games, music crafts, instrument-making, dancing, singing, and a lot of music!
Music Carnival Thursday, May 8, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Music and Movement
Library! at Hillcrest
Join us for a fun time of moving and grooving! Music and Movement helps develop music literacy in early childhood. This program is geared toward children ages 2-5, but all ages are welcome!
Music and Movement
Tuesdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Tuesdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room Saturday, May 17 10 AM - 2 PM Saturday, May 17 10 AM - 2 PM
BABIES, TODDLERS, AND PRESCHOOL CONT’D
Music and Movement in the Park
Shake, shimmy, and dance! Everything you love about Music and Movement while enjoying the outdoors! Please bring a blanket or chair to sit on. Designed for children ages 6 and under and their caregivers, but all are welcome!
Music and Movement in the Park
Outdoor Play and Learn
Fridays in May, June and July from 10:30-11 a.m.
Fridays in May and June from 10:30-11:00 a.m.
Ann Morrison Park Old Timer’s Pavillion, 1000 S. Americana Blvd.
Winstead Park, 6150 W. Northview St.
Scavenger hunts, plant lessons, “insect soup” making, and more! Outdoor Play and Learn is ideal for kids 5 and under.
Outdoor Play and Learn
Pajama Storytime
Fridays in May and June from 10–11:30 a.m.
Winstead Park, 6150 W. Northview St., Boise
Hop in your favorite jammies, grab your stuffie, and head to the Downtown Library for Pajama Storytime! We’ll read books, dance, and have loads of fun! This program is designed for families of any age or make-up.
Pajama Storytime
Play an Learn
Wednesdays from 6:30–7 p.m.
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Open-ended play time and socialization for kids 5 and under and their caregivers. Play and Learn Fridays in July and August from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Preschool Storytime
Prepare your children for kindergarten with fun, interactive stories. Designed for children ages 3-5.
Preschool Storytime Wednesdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium Thursdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Stories and Sensory Play
Stories and Sensory Play combines reading with other activities that use the senses, such as sensory bins, felt stories, songs, and dance. Sensory play helps children develop language and motor skills, as well help with cognitive growth and social interactions. This is especially curated for kids aged 2-5.
Stories and Sensory Play
2nd Friday of the month from 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Storytime in the Grass
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Come join us in the grass between the Library! at Bown Crossing and Riverside Elementary School for an outside storytime! We will read stories, sing songs, and play games to help practice early literacy skills. Ideal for children 5 and under. Please bring a blanket to sit on.
Storytime in the Grass Fridays in May and June from 10:30–11 a.m.
The grass behind the Library! at Bown Crossing between the Library and Riverside Elementary School
PERSONALIZED PICKS
Want some help finding what to read, watch or play next? Get personalized recommendations from our librarians by filling out a brief form to let us know what you’re looking for, whether it’s for you or someone else in your household. We’ll email you back with a list of recommendations or we’ll grab them from the shelf for you to pick up from the Library—you get to choose! BoisePublicLibrary.org/Picks
BABIES, TODDLERS, AND PRESCHOOL CONT’D
Tales and Trails
Come share songs and stories on some of Boise’s beautiful paths and trails! Each week, Library staff will share a story and lead participants on a short walk through nature. Suitable for adults with kids up to age 11. Program locations will vary week to week. See our online calendar for more information. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Tales and Trails Tuesdays, beginning June 3 from 9–10 a.m.
Tales and Trails–Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve
Locations change each week.
Check boisepubliclibraray.org/calendar
Library staff will share a story and lead children and their caregivers on a short walk through the reserve. Meet near the restrooms by the parking lot off S. Maple Grove Road. The walk is stroller friendly. Please bring weather-appropriate clothing, good footwear, water, sunscreen, and a hat. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Tales and Trails–Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve
Toddler Storytime
Mondays in May and June from 9–10 a.m.
Lakes
Join us for a fun-filled hour with books, songs, and activities designed to help develop your child’s early literacy and social skills. Ideal for toddlers ages 2-3 and their caregivers.
Toddler Storytime
YOUTH
Art Lab
Mondays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Wednesdays from 10:30–11 a.m.
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Art Lab is a weekly hands-on program for school-age kids and their caregivers to explore creativity through open-ended art projects. Each session starts with a snack and a few minutes of reading, followed by a process-based art activity inspired by nature, science, technology, or famous artists. No experience needed—just bring your imagination!
Art Lab Thursdays from 4–5 p.m.
Crafternoons for Kids
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Join us at the Library! at Collister for a new arts and crafts project every week! Designed for kids ages 6-11. Younger children may need adult assistance.
Crafternoons for Kids Tuesdays from 4–5 p.m.
Kids Crafts
Learn some new crafts!
May 10: Salt Painting with Watercolors
June 14: Marbling Paper with Oil and Food Coloring
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
July 12: Mushroom Cottage using a Terra Cotta Planter and Acrylic Paint
August 9: Rock Painting
Kids Crafts
Second Sat. of May, June, July, and August from 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Hyatt Hidden
Reserve, 5301 N. Maple Grove Rd., Boise
YOUTH CONT’D
LEGO® Club
Come hang out and build with LEGO® bricks! We will get creative and use our imaginations, with new themes every week!
LEGO® Club
Mondays from 4–5 p.m.
Thursdays from 4–5 p.m.
Fridays from 4–5 p.m.
Read to a Therapy Dog
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
In the Read to a Therapy Dog program, kids read to a certified therapy dog for 5-10 minutes. The dogs love it, but more importantly, the children are teaching themselves to read. With the focus on the dog, children feel less pressure or embarrassment about their reading skills. They have fun, build confidence, and increase their love of reading! Bring your own book or choose from our selection.
Read to a Therapy Dog
Tuesdays, May 13, May 27, June 10, June 24, July 8, July 22, Aug 5, and Aug 19 from 4–5 p.m.
4th Friday of May, June, July, and August from 4–5 p.m.
Saturdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
School Age Fun
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Winstead Park, 6150 W. Northview St.
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Kids will experience fun, hands-on activities in this program. Topics rotate each session. For kids ages 6-11.
School Age Fun
Wednesdays from 4–5 p.m.
Thursdays from 4–5p.m. (No event July 3rd)
Thursdays from 4–5 p.m. (No event July 3rd)
Sewing Club for Kids
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Library! at Hillcrest - Canyon Room
Come learn how to sew or expand your skills at our weekly Sewing Club for Kids! We’ll have sewing machines, fabric, and all the notions you need to sew your own projects. A variety of beginner and intermediate patterns will be provided for both hand and machine stitching.
Sewing Club for Kids
Fridays from 4–5 p.m.
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
YOUTH CONT’D
STEAM Fun
Five Senses: Join us as we try some fun and engaging STEAM activities that cover a variety of topics at an elementary level. During this event, kids will have the chance to be a detective using their five senses.
Fossil: for this event, kids will be digging up knowledge about fossils and their prehistoric origin.
STEAM Fun: Five Senses Saturday, June 14, from 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
STEAM Fun: Fossil Saturday, July 12, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Summer Reading Program Kick-Off Parties
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Celebrate the last day of school and the first day off Summer Reading! Each Boise Public Library location will have their own celebration for folks to get registered for the Summer Reading Program, collect their first prize book, and get a jumpstart on summer reading.
Summer Reading Program Kick-Off Parties Thursday, May 22 from 4–5 p.m.
Tree City Chamber Players Performance
Every Boise Public Library location
Musical Tales at the Library, presented by Tree City Chamber Players, is a 45-minute event featuring storytelling interjected with classical music by Debussy, Ravel, Bizet, and more, featuring flute, oboe and piano. Children’s books featured: Ocean Lullaby (El Arrullo del Océano) recited in English and Spanish, by Laura McGee Kvasnosky and Kate Harvey McGee, and Wild Symphony by Dan Brown, illustrated by Susan Batori. Tree City Chamber Players features Melanie Keller, flute, Ryan Klein, oboe, and Chad Spears, piano.
Saturday, May 31 from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, June 3 from 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Tree City Chamber
Players Performance
TEEN
Downtown Library
Library! at Hillcrest Thursday, June 5 from 11–12 a.m.
Library! at Bown Crossing Saturday, June 7 from 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Library! at Collister Saturday, June 7 from 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Library! at Cole & Ustick
Dungeon Club Plays: Monster of the Week!
When the monsters come out it’s up to you to step in and save the town! Investigate the spooky, kick butt against the strange, and survive in this one-shot game utilizing the Monster of the Week system. This Program is for older teens, ages 15-18. You do not need to know how to play. We’ll teach you along the way! REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Dungeon Club Plays: Monster of the Week! Thursday, May 29 from 5–7:45 p.m.
Dungeon Club: Mini Painting
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Do you have a character that needs a new mini? Are you working on terrain for your next campaign? Bring your minis, paints, and brushes and spend an evening with your fellow hobbyists! Each session will feature a slide detailing a new concept or technique. If you are new to the hobby - or just want to give it a try - some supplies will be provided. This event is for Teens and Adults, ages 12 and up.
Dungeon Club: Mini Painting Thursdays, May 22 and Aug 21 from 6–7:30 p.m. Library! at Bown Crossing - David Eberle Room
DICK EARDLEY SENIOR CENTER POP-UP LIBRARY
Visit our pop-up Library at the Dick Eardley Senior Center each month to check out books and more. See our online calendar for dates.
TEEN CONT’D
Dungeon Club: World Maps
Working on your own homebrewed world, but stumped on how the world looks? This is the session for you! Learn how to draw basic maps complete with mountain ranges, cities, rivers, and more. Utilize the power of beans to craft convincing continents and bodies of water! By the end of this session, you’ll have a wonderful map to dazzle your players with. This program is for teens and adults, ages 12 and up. REGISTRATION ENCOURAGED.
Dungeon Club: World Maps Thursday, July 31 from 6–7:45 p.m.
Teen Anime Club
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
join us every Wednesday in the Hayes Auditorium of the Main Library to celebrate all things anime! Ideal for ages 12-17. Teen Anime Club Wednesdays from 5–6 p.m.
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Teen Hangout
Have fun with other teens, playing games, arts and crafts, and just hanging out! Snacks and drinks provided. Ages 12-17.
Teen Hangout
ADULTS
Tuesdays from 5–6 p.m.
Tuesdays from 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Adult Arts and Crafts
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Interested in exploring your creative side, but unsure where to start? Join us for Adult Arts and Crafts for a variety of fun projects using different supplies and media. See the online calendar for each month’s scheduled project. Adult Arts and Crafts 2nd Tuesday of the month from 6–7:30 p.m.
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Afternoon Soiree
Join us for an afternoon exploring new ideas, enjoying great conversations, and having fun! We rotate topics and projects each month. June 20th is estate planning. Attorney Matt Hunter from Peters Patchin & Monaghan Law Office, will cover the benefits of estate planning. The session will include wills and trusts and will explain common misconceptions people have about estate planning.
Afternoon Soiree 3rd Tuesday of the month from 1–2:30 p.m.
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Conducted by trained facilitators from the Alzheimer’s Association, this support group on the Boise Bench is a safe place to develop a support system, exchange helpful information, talk through issues, share feelings and ways of coping, and keep up to date about local resources.
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group 1st and 3rd Mondays, May 5 and 19, June 2 and 16, July 7 and 21, and August 4 and 18 from 10-11 a.m.
Library! at Hillcrest - Canyon Room
Our monthly newsletter is the best way to keep in touch with all the wonderful programs, events, and resources the Boise Public Library has to offer. Sign up for the newsletter and see for yourself! boisepubliclibrary.org/newsletter
ADULTS CONT’D
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Be a part of something big. Give blood. One donation can save three lives. Schedule your appointment online at redcrossblood.org or through the Blood Donor American Red Cross app. Use sponsor code: “Bown” for Bown Crossing or “CULibrary” for Cole and Ustick. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Book Clubs
June 26 from 10 a.m.– 3 p.m.
July 11 from 10 a.m.– 4 p.m.
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Enjoy lively book discussions. Please see the descriptions at boisepubliclibrary.org/calendar for more information about each book club.
Book Club at the Library! at Bown Crossing
Books and Brews –Push and Pour
Books and Brews –Sockeye Alehouse
Collister Book Club
Hillcrest Book Club
1st Friday of the month 10:30–11:30 a.m.
2nd Mondays, May 12, June 9, and July 14 from 6:30–7:30 p.m.
3rd Wednesday of the month from 6–7:30 pm
2nd Tuesday of the month from 2–3:30 p.m.
4th Wednesdays, May 28, June 25, July 23, and August 27 from 2–3:30 pm
Library! at Bown Crossing - David Eberle Room
Push and Pour, 13 S. Latah St., Boise
Sockeye Alehouse, 3823 N. Garden Center Way, Boise
Library! at Collister - Catalpa Room
Library! at Hillcrest - Canyon Room
Queer Book Club 1st Wednesdays, May 7, Jun 4, and Jul 2 from 6–7 p.m.Library! at Hillcrest - Canyon Room
Ultimate Book Nerd Book Club Saturdays, May 10, June 14, July 12, and August 9 from 12–1 p.m.
Bunco Night
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
Join us for Bunco! Fun to play and easier to learn. If you can roll some dice and count to 21 then you have all you need to join us for a fun time. A great way to meet new people! Light snacks will be provided. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Bunco Night 1st Thursdays, May 1, June 5, July 3, August 7
Butterfly Book Folding Art for Pollinator Week
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
Join us as we honor our heroic pollinators by working together to make a stunning butterfly book sculpture! All materials will be provided. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Butterfly Book Folding Art for Pollinator Week
Wednesday, June 18 from 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
MUSICAL TALES PRESENTED BY TREE CITY CHAMBER PLAYERS
Musical Tales at the Library, presented by Tree City Chamber Players, is a 45-minute event featuring storytelling interjected with classical music by Debussy, Ravel, Bizet, and more, featuring flute, oboe and piano. Children’s books featured: Ocean Lullaby (El Arrullo del Océano) recited in English and Spanish, by Laura McGee Kvasnosky and Kate Harvey McGee, and Wild Symphony by Dan Brown, illustrated by Susan Batori. Tree City Chamber Players features Melanie Keller, flute, Ryan Klein, oboe, and Chad Spears, piano.
• Saturday, May 31 from 10:30–11:30 a.m. at the Downtown Library
• Tuesday, June 3 from 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Library! at Hillcrest
• Thursday, June 5 from 11a.m. –12 p.m. at the Library! at Bown Crossing
• Saturday, June 7 from 10:30–11:30 a.m. at the Library! at Collister
• Saturday, June 7 from 12:30–1:30 p.m. at the Library! at Cole & Ustick
ADULTS CONT’D
Casual Writer’s Club
Do you enjoy writing and sharing your writing with a group? Are you looking for ways to boost your creativity in a lowstakes environment? Join us to write toward creative prompts, share your work, and enjoy thoughtful discussion and creative connections! All levels and abilities welcome, from beginners to experts. For teens and adults.
Casual Writer’s Club 3rd Tuesday of the month from 6–7:30 p.m.
Coming Home: Women’s Reentry Networking Group
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
In collaboration with Recovery Idaho and the Idaho Department of Correction Reentry Program, the Library! at Cole and Ustick is hosting a program for women returning from incarceration. Organizations, agencies, and individuals will visit the library to share information about services and resources for women who are returning from incarceration and seeking to establish homes, reunite with their children, or find employment.
Coming Home:
Women’s Reentry Networking Group
Craft Club
Every 4th Wednesday (May 28, June 25, July 23, August 27) from 12-1 p.m.
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Come be a part of a crafty group! Bring in any work-in-progress project you have or start something new while spending time socializing. Any sort of craft is welcome as long as you are able to bring in your own supplies. This program is aimed to adults, so please leave the little ones at home.
Craft Club 1st Tuesday of the month from 6–7:30 p.m.
Crafternoons
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
A monthly craft project for adults covering a variety of art media. All skill levels are welcome! Come create something amazing, and maybe even make a few new friends, too! REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Crafternoons
Creative Corner
3rd Wednesdays, May 21, June 18, July 16, and August 20 from 3–4:30 p.m.
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
Bring a creative project that you want to work on or try something new using our project starter supplies. Create while you get to know other people in the area! We will also have materials for some projects available on a month-to-month basis.
Creative Corner Wednesdays from 12–2 p.m.
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
ADULTS CONT’D
Creative Writing Group
Do you want to connect with a creative writing community? Join us monthly where writers help writers. Each month we focus on an element of the writing process with coaching, writing prompts for growth, peer support for works in progress, and other writing tools. We also have author presentations. Writers of all genres and levels are welcome. REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED.
Creative Writing Group 1st and 3rd Wednesdays from 6–7:30 p.m.
DIY Business Market Research Workshop
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Please join us for our monthly drop-in program with an Information Services Librarian to go over business market research available to our community. This will be a chance to ask questions about our business databases, our collection, or our website, and to get hands on practice. Laptops will be provided for program use, as well as a web guide / instructions to follow along with.
DIY Business Market Research Workshop
1st Monday of the month from 6–7 p.m.
Drop-in Collage for Adults–First Thursday!
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
Come join us for a low-key evening of fun and playful art-making for adults. Bring your friends! We will provide all materials.
Drop-in Collage for Adults–First Thursday! Thursday, June 5 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Drop-in Coloring for Adults–First Thursday!
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
Get out of the heat and come chill with us for a relaxing evening of coloring for adults. Bring your friends! We’ll provide all materials.
Drop-in Coloring for Adults–First Thursday! Thursday, July 3 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
COMMUNITY RESOURCE POP-UPS
The Library! works with several organizations to host pop-ups that provide resources and services to community members.
• Lawyers in the Library every 1st Tuesday at the Downtown Library: The Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program provides a safety net for low-income individuals and families who can’t afford to pay for civil legal services. Contact the Library for more information
• Our Path Home Outreach at rotating Library locations: Our Path Home Street Outreach provides services to those experiencing a housing crisis. Outreach specialists will be available to assist with housing assessments, provide referrals to resources, and answer questions. Please contact the Housing Crisis Line at (208) 336-HOME (4663) if you or someone you know is in housing crisis.
Our Path Home Street Outreach Pop-Up
Every 1st Wednesday and 3rd Monday from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.Downtown Library
• Terry Reilly Health Services: Terry Reilly Health Services is a community health center that provides medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. Terry Reilly will be at the Downtown Library every first Wednesday and third Monday of the month. Patient navigators will be available from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. to make future appointments, learn about their programs, provide education on insurance and social security benefits, and connect to important resources. For more information call (208) 318-1326.
Terry Reilly Health Services Pop-Up
Every 1st Wednesday and 3rd Monday from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.Downtown Library
ADULTS CONT’D
English Practice Meet-Up
Hello! Do you want to practice speaking English? Come talk with us!
English Practice Meet-Up
Fit and Fall Proof
Thursdays from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Fridays from 10–11 a.m.
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
Library! at Collister - Catalpa Room
Fit and Fall Proof™ is designed to help senior citizens prevent injuries and the subsequent loss of independence. Class participants learn simple exercises to increase strength, balance and endurance, which can help prevent the accidental falls and tripping sometimes associated with age. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Please contact CDH’s Fit & Fall Proof™ Coordinator
Mike Rice at 208-327-8591 for current availability.
Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:30–11:30 am
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
Fit and Fall Proof
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12–1 p.m.
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:15–10:00 a.m.
Goth Craft Club: Eerie Vases
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Need something spooky to hold your ink-black flowers or raven feather quills? Join us as we make haunting vases from mason jars and napkins! This program is for teens and adults, ages 12 and up. Supplies are limited. REGISTRATION ENCOURAGED.
Goth Craft Club: Eerie Vases
Thursday, May 8 from 6–7:30 p.m.
Knit and Crochet Society
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Bring your knitting or crocheting projects to the Library! at Cole & Ustick. Knitters and crocheters of all skill levels are welcome.
Knit and Crochet Society Wednesdays from 2–3:30 p.m.
Laid-Back Craft Club for New Adults
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
If you enjoy crafting and are 18-25 years old, this is the group for you! You can bring your own project or try our craft of the month. Snacks provided.
Laid-Back Craft Club for New Adults
Learn to Knit
2nd Thursday of the month from 6–7 p.m.
Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Learn how to make your own knitting projects in this beginning knitting class. You’ll be knitting and purling before you know it! REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Learn to Knit
Medicare
and
Mondays, July 7, July 14, July 21, and July 28 from 1–2 p.m.
Medicaid Information Session and Q&A
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
Get your Medicare and Medicaid questions answered! Clarity Insurance Solutions will teach you about these programs, answering your questions.
Medicare and Medicaid Information Session and Q&A
Memory Café
Mondays, May 19 and August 18, from 11 a.m. –12 p.m.
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
The Memory Cafe is where family caregivers and their loved one with memory loss can gather in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment in a break from the normal routine. It is a time to socialize, enjoy activities, learn from monthly topics, and build resources for changing needs.
Memory Café May 15, July 17 and August 21 from 1–2:30 p.m.
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
ADULTS CONT’D
Paint and Sip
Paint your own masterpiece in this fun, step-by-step program. We’ll enjoy sparkling water and follow along with a guided painting video. All skill levels are welcome! REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Paint and Sip
Wednesdays, May 28, June 25, July 23, and August 27 from 6–7:30 p.m.
Resume and Employment Resources Workshop
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
A compelling resume and cover letter are essential for landing the career you want. At this workshop, we’ll review your documents and show you tools and resources that are available for writing and designing resumes, cover letters, and other application materials. There will also be a consultant from Equus Workforce Solutions offering information on employment opportunities, resume building, financial literacy classes, and much more. Equus is specifically focused on helping low-income individuals develop essential skills and strategies to successfully re-enter the workforce. Please bring a printed copy of any document you want help revising. Boise Public Library will print up to 10 copies of your resume and cover letter for free.
Resume and Employment Resources Workshop
Self Care Workshop
Thursdays, May 8, June 12, July 10, and August 14 from 10–11:30 a.m.
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
May: Somatic Workshop - Designed to help you gently access the magic of reconnecting your body and emotions in a supportive way, focusing on releasing tension and finding relaxation through guided movement and breathwork.
June: StretchLab - Improve flexibility, reduce tension, and promote better posture and balance—key for maintaining mobility as we age.
July: Improving Brain Health with Neurofeedback and Nutrition - Learn from a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner about the brain’s energy patterns, how and why they develop, and how to improve the way the brain operates with nutrition and neurofeedback.
August: Ecstatic Dance - Come for a short presentation on the history of Ecstatic Dance and the how, why, and what to expect at an event. Then let’s dance!
Self Care Workshop May–Somatic Workshop Thursday, May 8 from 6:30–7:45 p.m.
Self Care Workshop June–StretchLab Thursday, June 12 from 6–7:45 p.m.
Self Care Workshop July–Improving Brain Health with Neurofeedback and Nutrition
Self Care Workshop August–Ecstatic Dance
Sewing 101
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Thursday, July 10 from 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Thursday, August 14 from 6:30–7:45 p.m.
Want to learn how to use a sewing machine? We’ll show you how to prepare your fabric for best results, how to thread a sewing machine, how do basic troubleshooting, and how to finish your project. We’ll have a different beginner-friendly project each month. We have machines to use, but you can bring your own machine if you want help setting it up.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Sewing 101 4th Tuesday of the Month from 6–7:30 p.m.
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
ADULTS CONT’D
Speed Friending
Join us for an evening of Speed Friending! Speed Friending is an event where individuals are paired off for one-on-one conversations in short intervals. During these intervals, each pair is given the opportunity to talk, ask questions, and possibly spark a new friendship. Meet new people, make connections, and make some friends! Light refreshments provided. For adults only. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Speed Friending Thursday, July 24 from 6–7:30 p.m.
The Good Death Seminar Series
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
This 12-session seminar series helps to support and educate communities on end-of-life care. The series is based on The Good Death: A Guide for Supporting Your Loved One Through the End of Life by Suzanne B. O’Brien. Presented by End-of-Life Doula and Grief Counselor Karen Midlo.
The Good Death Seminar Series
Threadbenders
Thursdays, 6-7:45 pm, May 22 – August 21 (No program June 19 and July 17)
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Join a group of creative and crafty thread benders! Bring your own knitting, crocheting, embroidery, or hand-stitching project to work on. All skill levels welcome.
Threadbenders 3rd Thursday of the month from 6–7:30 p.m.Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Treasure Valley Pollinator Gardening Event Series
Hear from the Ada Soil and Water Conservation District’s expert speakers on a variety of pollinator and gardening topics:
June 10: Pollinator Habitat Evaluation. Presenter: Ariel Agenbroad, University of Idaho Ada County Extension
June 17: Specialist Bees. Presenters: Brad Stokes and Armando Falcon-Brindis, University of Idaho Ada County Extension
June 24: Dragonflies! Presenter: Kristin Gnojewski, Conservation Connection Foundation
July 1: Designing and Gardening for Pollinators. Presenters: Gabrielle Krake and Isabelle Genovese, Beewise Gardens
July 8: How to Use your TVPP Plants. Presenter: Holly Hovis, Sego Lily Native Gardens REGISTRATION REQUIRED online at adaswcd.org/tvpp-events
Treasure Valley Pollinator Gardening Event Series Tuesdays, June 10, 17, 24, and July 1, 8, from 6–7 p.m.
Unraveled: A Yarn Guild
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
Join a group of local yarn enthusiasts as we gather every week to knit, crochet, or weave our own personal projects, or items for Boise area humanitarian needs, including preemie baby beanies for St. Alphonsus, crate blankets for the Idaho Humane Society, and kid’s beanies for the Boise Bicycle Project. Limited supplies for humanitarian projects are available.
Unraveled: A Yarn Guild Mondays from 3– 4:30 p.m.
Boise Writer in Residence, Alan Heathcock
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
Alan Heathcock, award-winning author of VOLT and 40, shares the “Tenets of Literary Potency”, a workshop series that distills everything Heathcock has learned during 30 years of writing, editing, publishing, and teaching.
Tenet : Authenticity Saturday, May 31, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Tenet: Urgency Saturday, June 21, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Tenet: Meaning Saturday, July 19, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Tenet: Originality Saturday, August 16, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Library! at Hillcrest - Butte Room
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
ALL AGES EVENTS
Backpacking 101 with Idaho Trails Association
Ready to ditch the crowds, hit the trail, and carry everything you need for an unforgettable backcountry adventure? Learn the basics of backpacking with the Idaho Trails Association Crew Leader. We will discuss topics such as gear, food, safety, and hiking literature. After the presentation, stick around for a gear demo and audience questions! REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Backpacking 101 with Idaho Trails Association Thursday, May 15 from 6–7:50 p.m.
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Bike Rodeo!
Saddle up and join us for a Bike Rodeo y’all! Kids and their grown-ups can giddyup and ride on down to the Library to show off their biking skills while learning some new ones. In conjunction with the Boise Bicycle Project. Boots are optional, helmets are not. Yeehaw!
Bike Rodeo! Saturday, May 24 from 11 a.m. –12:30 p.m.
Book Homes Collage with Artist Amy Nack and James Castle House
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Through guided activities led by artist Amy Nack, families can expect a welcoming, inclusive space to experiment, play, and make art together. In this workshop you will be repurposing book pages and book covers to make a series of 4 small homes inspired by the James Castle House where James Castle lived and created for the last 46 years of his life. This workshop is part of Be A Maker, a series of hands-on, family-friendly workshops inspired by Boise artist James Castle and the James Castle House’s current exhibition Where Art Begins.
Book Homes Collage with Artist Amy Nack and James Castle House Saturday, May 10, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Coffee and Conversations
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Please join our Community Resource Coordinator and Library staff for a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea! Connect with other Library users and learn about community resources. Activities include puzzles, coloring, and games.
Coffee and Conversations
Day of Play
Every 2nd and 4th Thursday, from 10–11:30 a.m.
Every 2nd and 4th Friday, from 10–11:30 a.m
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Bitterbrush Room
Downtown Library - Marion Bingham Room
Join the Library and the Boise Urban Garden School (BUGS) at Comba Park for our Day of Play event! Spend more time outdoors this summer by playing and gardening as a family. Visit one of our Boise parks and learn about BUGS and their pollinator garden, their 3/4 acre regenerative organic garden, and most importantly how to have fun and play! Activities include outdoor gamers, soccer and basketball, scavenger hunt, crafts, splash pad, and a playground. Comba Park, 2995 N.Five Mile Rd., Boise.
Day of Play
Saturday, June 14 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Comba
CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION AT OUR PRIDE MONTH COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR!
This inclusive event brings together local organizations offering essential resources in housing, employment, health and wellness, legal assistance, and much more. Whether you’re seeking support, looking to engage with affirming services, or simply want to celebrate Pride with us, all are welcome. Join us to explore, connect, and uplift our community!
Saturday, June 28 | 12-6 p.m.
Downtown Library, Hayes Auditorium
Park, 2995 N. Five Mile Rd., Boise
ALL AGES EVENTS CONT’D
Family Art Night
Family Art Night offers several stations for kids and their families to make art, to learn about the Boise Comics Art Festival comic creation contest, and to decorate the Library with a community art piece!
Family Art Night Thursday, June 5 from 4–6 p.m.
Boise Public Library Pokémon League
Library! at Cole & Ustick - Sagebrush Room
Come and play the Pokémon Trading Card Game with other Pokémon enthusiasts! Using your own cards (we will have some decks to borrow), you can play, trade, and even earn cool prizes! For Pokémon fans ages 8 and up.
Boise Public Library Pokemon League Tuesdays from 6–7:30 p.m.
Wednesdays from 6–7:30 p.m.
Pride Month Community Resource Fair
Library! at Bown Crossing - Martie Brennan Room
Library! at Collister - Sycamore Room
Celebrate community and connection at our Pride Month Community Resource Fair! This inclusive event brings together local organizations offering essential resources in housing, employment, health and wellness, legal assistance, and much more! Whether you’re seeking support, looking to engage with affirming services, or simply want to celebrate Pride with us, all are welcome. Join us to explore, connect, and uplift our community!
Pride Month Community Resource Fair Saturday, June 28 from 12–6 p.m. Downtown Library - Hayes Auditorium
Summer Reading and Learning Celebration
Make reading a fun, daily habit! Join us and partner libraries and organizations from across the Treasure Valley to celebrate the beginning of Summer. Explore the many ways you and your family can get involved with local organizations. There will be exhibitors offering educational and fun options for kids and families. Enjoy dance performances, music, food, pictures with mascots and more!
Summer Reading and Learning Celebration Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.JUMP, 1000 W. Myrtle St. Boise
DID YOU KNOW?
A Boise Public Library card offers benefits to all Boise residents:
•Borrow or download almost 600,000 titles from our collection of ebooks, emagazines, music, CDs, DVDs, newspapers, video games, and more.
•Pick up holds without having to leave your car! Simply park, call the posted number, and a staff member will bring your materials to you.
•Stream videos, make art projects, learn a new language, and much more by accessing over 100 digital applications and resources.
•Use our mobile printing system to print from your device and retrieve copies from any of our locations.
• To learn more and get your library card, go to: boisepubliclibrary.org/library-cards
BoisePublicLibrary.org/calendar
General: 208-972-8200
Renewal by Phone: 208-972-8980
TTY: 1-800-377-3529