Dec. 2022-Jan. 2023

10:30 a.m.Zoom Snack Attack

10:30 a.m.M Stocking Decorating 5-10 p.m. Mishawaka Parks & Recreation's Winterfest at Ironworks Plaza 4 p.m.H Holiday BINGO! (Ages 3-11) 6:30 p.m.H Planning 101

10:30 a.m.M & B Christmas Ornament Walk-In Craft (Ages 2-11)No Reg. Required10:30 a.m.M Holiday Happenings: Gift Bags and Tags

16

10:30 a.m.Zoom Virtual Craft Hour 10:15 a.m.M 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Party (Age 6 & under) 10:30 a.m.H Holiday Happenings: Snowman Craft and Cocoa

15

10:15 a.m.B Early Literacy Café (Age 5 & under)No Reg. Required10:15 a.m.M & Zoom Mug 'n' Muffin 1 p.m.B or 5 p.m.H Miniature Book Keychains Craft (Grades 6-12) 2 p.m.B Homeschool Hangout 4 p.m.B Blacklight Bingo (Grades 6-12) 5:30 p.m.M Delectable Lit

10:15 a.m.M Early Literacy Café (Age 5 & under)No Reg. Required10:30 a.m.M Holiday Happenings: Holiday Treats 3:30 p.m.B Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required4 p.m.M Business After-HoursNo Reg. Required4, 4:45 or 5:30 p.m.M The Roz Puppets Holiday Show

3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required4:30 p.m.M Ready, Set, Cook! (Grades K-5) 6 p.m.M Hot Chocolate Tasting (Grades 6-12) 6:30 p.m.Zoom Take a Trip: Norway

17 December 2022

10:15 a.m.H Early Literacy Café (Age 5 & under)No Reg. Required10:30 a.m.B & Zoom Yak, Snack and Read 3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required4:30 p.m.H Winter Wonderfest

5:30 p.m.B Family Holiday Trivia 5:30 p.m.B DIY at Dusk: Quilled Ornaments

ALL MPHPL LOCATIONS CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF CHRISTMAS EVE

ALL MPHPL LOCATIONS CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF NEW YEAR'S EVE

10:30 a.m.M Kids Yoga at the Library (Ages 4-10)

10:30 a.m.M Treat Yo' Pup 2 p.m.B Homeschool Hangout 4 p.m.M Blacklight Bingo (Grades 6-12) 6 p.m.M Holiday Mocktails and Music

3:30 p.m.B Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required5 p.m.B Wrap and Yap 5:30 p.m.B Button Making (Grades 6-12)

3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required4:30 p.m.M Ready, Set, Cook! (Grades K-5) 5:30 p.m.M Teen Advisory Group (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required6 p.m.M Mental Well-Being with Mental Health Awareness of Michiana

10:30 a.m.B Make with Us: Corkboard Coasters 2 p.m.B A Little Bit of Everything Book Club (Grades K-8) 4:30 p.m.Zoom Passport Pals: Finland (Ages 4-11)

10:30 a.m.M Sew Fun! 11 a.m. or 5 p.m.M Miniature Book Keychains Craft (Grades 6-12) 6:30 p.m.M Planning 101

10:30 a.m.M Brunch Buddies Storytime (Age 11 & under) 3:30 p.m.B Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required -

PLEASE NOTE :

Some programs have varying age groups. These programs have specific ages listed below the event. Programs are subject to change. Should a program be canceled, patrons will be notified at least 72 hours prior to the program.

1 p.m.Zoom Maple Sugar Time with Indiana Dunes National Park 3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required5:30 p.m.M Adult Game Night! 7 p.m.M Stuffed Animal Sleepover Storytime (Age 11 & under)

ALL MPHPL LOCATIONS CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF CHRISTMAS DAY

Children (Birth5 th Grade) Children & Teens Teens (6 th12 th Grade) Adults (18+) Family & All Ages Free Tickets Required

January 2023

10:30 a.m.M Owls Around Us 10:30 a.m.B Make with Us: Pots and Plants

10:30 a.m.M Customize It! Personalized Decals

Mishawaka Storytime (See page 10 for details) 11 a.m.M STEAM Squad (Ages 6-11) 10:30 am.B Customize It! Glove Decorating 3:30 p.m.B Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required10:15 a.m. or 11 a.m.M Penguin Party (Age 5 & under) 10:15 a.m. or 11 a.m.M Penguin Explorers (Ages 6-11) 3:30 p.m.B Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required5:30 p.m.B Cooking Classics: No Bake Granola

Mishawaka Storytime (See page 10 for details) 11 a.m.M STEAM Squad (Ages 6-11)

10:30 a.m.B Make with Us: Im-peck-able Bird Feeders 3:30 p.m.M Dragon Master Party (Grades 1-3) 10:30 a.m.B & Zoom Yak, Snack and Read 3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required5 p.m.M New Year, New Book 6:30 p.m.M American Heritage SpotlightNo Reg. Required3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required4:30 p.m.M Ready, Set, Cook! (Grades K-5) 6:30 p.m.Zoom Take a Trip: India

2 p.m.B A Little Bit of Everything Book Club (Grades K-8) 5:30 p.m.B DIY at Dusk: Paper Jewelry

10:30 a.m.Zoom Virtual Craft Hour 10:30 a.m.Zoom Snack Attack 1:30 p.m.M Cupcake Decorating (Grades K-5) ALL MPHPL LOCATIONS CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY ALL MPHPL LOCATIONS CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF NEW YEAR'S DAY

11 a.m.B STEAM Squad (Ages 6-11) 4 p.m.B After School AI Club (Grades 2-8)

3:30 p.m.B Dragon Master Party (Grades 1-3) 3:30 p.m.B Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required -

10:30 a.m.M Customize It! Personalized Paint by Numbers 10:30 a.m.B or 3:30 p.m.M Extreme Exploring

M B H - - -

Mishawaka Storytime (See page 10 for details) 11 a.m.M STEAM Squad (Ages 6-11) 3:30 p.m.B Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required4:30 p.m.Zoom Cover to Cooking (Grades 3-6) 5:30 p.m.Zoom Virtual Movie Locations Tour

3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required5:30 p.m.M Teen Advisory Group (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required6 p.m.M Mental Well-Being with Mental Health Awareness of Michiana 3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required4:30 p.m.M Ready, Set, Cook! (Grades K-5) 5:30 p.m.M Adult Game Night! 6 p.m.M Achieve Financial Well-Being, Keep a Budget and Save Money

6:30 p.m.M eGaming Night 4 p.m.B Drawing Fun (Grades 6-12)

10:30 a.m.B Make with Us: Board Game Coasters 4:30 p.m.Zoom Passport Pals: Australia (Ages 4-11)

Adults (18+) Family & All Ages Storytime Free Tickets Required

3:30 p.m.M Teen Gaming (Grades 6-12)No Reg. Required6:30 p.m.M Popcorn & Pages (Grades 3-5) 6:30 p.m.Zoom Virtual World Treat Tasting

Children (Birth5 th Grade) Children & Teens Teens (6 th12 th Grade)

Mishawaka Library Location Bittersweet Branch Location Harris Branch Location

Children All Ages

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Mishawaka-Penn Harris Public Library

Stocking Decorating Mishawaka

Library

Sat., Dec. 3 10:30 a.m.-Noon Families

Join us to decorate your own holiday stocking to be hung with care . Use the decorations we have at the library or bring some from home to add your own special holiday cheer . Christmas music and cookies will be provided . Adult caregivers must remain in the room . Registration required.

Homeschool Hangout

Bittersweet Branch

2nd & 4th Thursdays: Dec. 8 & 22, Jan. 12 & 26 2-4 p.m. | Families

Meet and greet with fellow homeschool families . Enjoy a place to hang out, share ideas and meet friends . Board games for all ages and assorted building block activities for younger children will be available . Adult caregivers must remain in the room for participants 11 years of age and younger . Registration required.

Family Holiday Trivia

Bittersweet Branch

Mon., Dec. 12 5:30-6:30 p.m.

All Ages (Families)

Bring the whole family and enjoy a night of holiday-themed trivia! We’ll have questions covering seasonal movies, music, food and more . A small prize will be given to the winning team . Teams must have between two to six members . Registration required.

Maple Sugar Time with Indiana Dunes

National Park

Live on Zoom | Tues., Dec. 27 1-2 p.m. | All Ages

Join us as a representative from Indiana Dunes National Park teaches us about maple sugar! We’ll learn all about the rich and fascinating history of this uniquely North American sweet treat . Registration required.

Owls Around Us

Mishawaka Library | Sat., Jan. 7 10:30-11:30 a.m. | All Ages

Presenters from the St . Joseph County Parks will be here to teach us all about Owls Around Us . We will see animal artifacts, experiments and enjoy learning activities as part of the presentation . Adult caregivers must remain in the room . Tickets are required (free upon request) and will be available at the Mishawaka Youth Services desk beginning Mon., Dec. 19. Limit 10 tickets per adult

Extreme Exploring Sat., Jan. 28 | Families

Bittersweet Branch | 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Mishawaka Library | 3:30-4:30 p.m.

During our Saturday sessions, children will explore hands-on projects that incorporate multiple STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) skills using play dough circuit kits . Adult caregivers must remain in the room . Registration required.

Registration required for the monthly storytime session. Caregivers are expected to participate as able. Groups may contact the Youth Services Coordinator at (574) 259-5277, ext. 3101 to inquire about special accommodations.

BOOKS & BABIES TODDLER TIME PRESCHOOL PALS

Birth-23 Months

Books & Babies is a structured 20 minute program that combines books, short rhymes, songs, fingerplays and movement activities to introduce children to the wonder of language. Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Sessions are limited to 15 participants.

Mishawaka Library

Wednesdays:

Jan. 11, 18 & 25 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Bittersweet Branch Thursdays: Jan. 12, 19 & 26 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Ages 2 & 3

Toddler Time is a structured 30 minute program in which books, story-related activities and take-home crafts provide an enjoyable group experience. Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Sessions are limited to 30 participants.

Mishawaka Library

Wednesdays:

Jan. 11, 18 & 25 11-11:30 a.m.

Bittersweet Branch Thursdays: Jan. 12, 19 & 26 11-11:30 a.m.

Ages 4 & 5

Preschool Pals is a structured 30 minute program in which books, story-related activities and take-home crafts are used to increase early literacy skills and kindergarten readiness. Children are encouraged to interact socially with other children and attend sessions independently. Caregivers must remain in the library. Sessions are limited to 30 participants.

Mishawaka Library

Wednesdays:

Jan. 11, 18 & 25 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Bittersweet Branch Thursdays: Jan. 12, 19 & 26 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Children (Ages 6-11) 11-11:30 a.m.

Mishawaka Library

Wednesdays: Jan. 11, 18 & 25

Bittersweet Branch

Thursdays: Jan. 12, 19 & 26

During each 30 minute session, children will explore hands-on projects that incorporate multiple STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) skills. Children are encouraged to interact socially with other children and attend sessions independently. Caregivers must remain in the library. Sessions are limited to 30 participants. Registration required.

Children Children

Holiday BINGO!

Harris Branch | Thurs., Dec. 1 4-5 p.m. | Ages 3-11

December is Bingo’s Birthday Month . Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of bingo! Winners will choose from a selection of children’s books or prizes to take home . Adult caregivers must remain in the room . Registration required.

Ready, Set, Cook!

Mishawaka Library

Tuesdays: Dec. 6 & 20; Jan. 3 & 24 4:30-5:30 p.m. | Grades K-5

Enjoy an afternoon filled with learning new cooking skills and recipes . The best part is that everyone gets to sample their creation . Adult caregivers must remain in the room for participants in grades K-2; adult caregivers must remain in the library for participants in grades 3-5 . Registration required.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten Party

Mishawaka Library | Fri., Dec. 9 10:15-11 a.m. | Age 6 & under

Celebrate reading with us! Whether you are new to the program or have been participating in 1000 Books Before Kindergarten for a while, we want to celebrate you! We will share stories and activities along with some exciting new changes to 1000 Books . Adult caregivers must remain in the room . Registration required.

Early Literacy Café

Harris Branch | Tues., Dec. 13

Mishawaka Library | Wed., Dec. 14

Bittersweet Branch | Thurs., Dec. 15 10:15-10:45 a.m. | Age 5 & under

Join us for a morning of early literacy fun! We’ll have a variety of play and sensory stations set up for little ones to practice important literacy skills . Tips will also be provided to families to ensure the learning can continue at home . Adult caregivers must remain in the room . No registration required.

Christmas Ornament Walk-in Craft

Mishawaka Library & Bittersweet Branch | Sat., Dec. 17 10:30 a.m.-Noon | Ages 2-11

The Mishawaka Library and the Bittersweet Branch will host a walk-in craft for Christmas ornaments . Pick your favorite winter-themed design and have fun putting one together . Christmas music and cookies will be provided . Adult caregivers must remain in the room . One ornament per person, available only for those in attendance while supplies last. No registration required.

Are you the parent of a child five or younger? Build closeness and early literacy skills with your child by participating in the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program. Visit mphpl.org/1000books to learn more!

to our recent 1000 BooKS finiSherS!

Tristan

Minerva William

A Little Bit of Everything Book Club

Bittersweet Branch

Mondays: Dec. 19 & Jan. 9 2-3 p.m. | Grades K-8

Join us for a homeschool book club with a plethora of activities ranging from book trivia to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and everything in between . Each month will include different activities .

Dec. 19: Wonder by R.J. Palacio Jan. 9: The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me by Roald Dahl

Books can be picked up a month in advance at a Youth Services desk . Adult caregivers must remain in the library for participants 11 years of age and younger . Registration required.

Passport Pals

Live on Zoom

Mondays: Dec. 19 & Jan. 23 4:30-5:15 p.m. Ages 4-11

Ready to travel the world? During this fun and informative session, you’ll learn all about countries from around the world . Craft, activity and recipe resources will be provided so you can experience a little bit of the country from home Dec. 19: Finland Jan. 23: Australia

Registration required. Details on when and where to pick up program supplies will be emailed to registrants . Stuffed

7-7:30

Bring one of your favorite stuffed animal friends for a special evening storytime and craft before leaving them for a fun overnight adventure in the library! You’ll pick up your friend the next morning during our Brunch Buddies Storytime.

Brunch

For those that participated in our Stuffed Animal Sleepover Storytime, join us the next morning to pick up your stuffed animal friend and enjoy a slideshow of pictures of their overnight adventures! Enjoy a second storytime with doughnuts and juice.

Adult caregivers must remain in the room. Registration required. Register for these programs under the Dec. 27 event.

Children

Penguin Party

Mishawaka Library | Wed., Jan. 4

Bittersweet Branch | Thurs., Jan 5 10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:30 a.m. Age 5 & under

Enjoy a fun penguin themed party with stories, music, crafts and more!

For extra fun, dress in black and white like a proper penguin! Adult caregivers must remain in the room.

Registration required.

Penguin Explorers

Mishawaka Library | Wed., Jan. 4

Bittersweet Branch | Thurs., Jan 5 10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:30 a.m. Ages 6-11

Learn about penguins by doing hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities. Adult caregivers must remain in the library. Registration required.

Kids Yoga at the Library

Mishawaka Library | Fri., Dec. 30 10:30-11 a.m. | Ages 4-10

In this 30 minute interactive session, we will act out a story with yoga poses and use our imaginations to create our own adventures with movement . This session is led by Heather Barron, a certified yoga and meditation teacher She loves promoting books and libraries as part of her work in mindfulness and movement . Adult caregivers must remain in the room and are encouraged to participate with their children . Please bring your own mats . Registration required.

Cupcake Decorating

Mishawaka Library | Fri., Jan. 6 1:30–2:30 p.m. | Grades K-5

The only thing better than decorating a cupcake is eating your creation! Join us for this program and decorate your cupcake using as little or as much frosting, sprinkles and candies as your cupcake can handle Adult caregivers must remain in the room for participants in grades K-2; adult caregivers must remain in the library for participants in grades 3-5 . Registration required.

Dragon Master Party

Mishawaka Library | Tues., Jan. 17

Bittersweet Branch | Wed., Jan. 18

3:30-5 p.m. | Grades 1-3

Are you a fan of the wildly popular book series, Dragon Masters by Tracey West? Come and try your hand at a variety of dragon themed crafts and activities along with fun trivia about the series . Adult caregivers must remain in the library . Registration required.

After School AI Club

Bittersweet Branch

Thurs., Jan. 19 4-5 p.m. | Grades 2-8

Join us for this program presented by Penn High School seniors that will spark youth interest in artificial intelligence . The presentation will showcase AI and engage kids in interactive games . Adult caregivers must remain in the library for participants 11 years of age and younger . Registration required.

Jan. 3 - Feb. 28

Cover to Cooking

Live on Zoom | Wed., Jan. 25 4:30–5:30 p.m. | Grades 3-6

Young foodies welcome! Participants and their families are welcome to join us on Zoom to learn a new recipe based on a book . No need to read the entire book beforehand . Each month a different book will be sampled, so participants will be able to decide if this is a book appetizing to their reading palate . This month's selection is A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket . Registration required.

Popcorn & Pages

Mishawaka Library

Tues., Jan. 31 6:30-7:30 p.m. Grades 3-5

Children

MPHPL Cardholders can now access ABCmouse.com Early Learning Academy, a new digital educational resource for children, ages 2-8+, free of charge! ABCmouse is designed to help children build a strong foundation in reading, math, science, social studies, art and music.

Set up an account with your MPHPL library card number and four-digit PIN then launch the program on your computer, tablet or smartphone!

mphpl.org/online-resources

Join us for this book club where we take our artistry and appetite to the next level! After reading the book on our own, we will meet at the library to discuss and devour our way through the pages and popcorn . We will draw out scenes, answer trivia and discuss what made us giggle and what made us laugh out loud! This month's selection is Wink by Rob Harrell . Copies of the book will be available for checkout at each Youth Services desk beginning Dec . 19 . Sixth graders welcome as space allows . Adult caregivers must remain in the library for participants 11 years of age and younger . Registration required.

Teens

Teen Gaming

Mishawaka Library | Tuesdays

Bittersweet Branch | Wednesdays

(No session on Wed., Dec. 14) 3:30–5:30 p.m. | Grades 6-12

Join us in the teen department for gaming! Play our Nintendo Switch™ or choose from an assortment of card, dice and board games . Stop in and play for a few minutes or join us for the full two hours . No registration required.

Hot Chocolate Tasting

Mishawaka Library | Tues., Dec. 6 6-7 p.m. | Grades 6-12

Is there anything better than a hot drink on a cold day? Join us for this tasting and see how adventurous your tastebuds really are! Registration required.

Miniature

Book

Keychains Craft Grades 6-12

Bittersweet Branch

Thurs., Dec. 15 | 1-3 p.m.

Harris Branch Thurs., Dec. 15 | 5-7 p.m.

Mishawaka Library Thurs., Dec. 29 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 5-7 p.m.

If you love books, you will adore these miniature book keychains. When you register, you can choose your favorite book to make or leave with one of our favorites. Registration required.

Bittersweet Branch | Thurs., Dec. 8

Mishawaka Library | Thurs., Dec. 22 4-5 p.m. | Grades 6-12

Join us for an exciting game of blacklight bingo. Make sure to add to the fun and wear white to glow in the blacklight along with your BINGO card. Small prizes will be awarded and light snacks will be provided. Registration required.

A Little Bit of Everything Book Club

Bittersweet Branch

Mondays: Dec. 19 & Jan. 9 2-3 p.m. | Grades K-8

Join us for a homeschool book club with a plethora of activities ranging from book trivia to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and everything in between . Each month will include different activities .

Dec. 19: Wonder by R.J. Palacio Jan. 9: The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me by Roald Dahl

Books can be picked up a month in advance at a Youth Services desk . Adult caregivers must remain in the library for participants 11 years of age and younger . Registration required.

Teen Advisory Group

Mishawaka Library

3rd Tuesdays: Dec. 20 & Jan. 17 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Grades 6-12

Teens are invited to share their ideas, opinions and skills with the Teen Advisory Group . MPHPL wants your input on events, services and books for teens in the community . We will also provide opportunities to earn volunteer hours! No registration required.

Button Making

Bittersweet Branch

Wed., Dec. 21 5:30-6:30 p.m. Grades 6-12

Do you like collecting buttons and pins? Try your hand at making your own 1-inch button with the library’s button maker . Use our premade images, draw your own design or bring your own . Registration required.

After School AI Club

Bittersweet Branch | Thurs., Jan. 19 4-5 p.m. | Grades 2-8

Join us for this program presented by Penn High School seniors that will spark youth interest in artificial intelligence . The presentation will showcase AI and engage kids in interactive games . Adult caregivers must remain in the library for participants 11 years of age and younger Registration required.

Make Your Own Sundae

Mishawaka Library | Thurs., Jan. 26 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Grades 6-12

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Bring your appetite and your decorating skills to make an ice cream sundae that looks too good to eat almost! Enjoy your sundae but avoid a brain freeze! Registration required.

Drawing Fun

Bittersweet Branch | Mon., Jan. 30 4-5 p.m. | Grades 6-12

Simply using a white piece of paper and a black marker, learn how to express yourself with doodles . Light refreshments will be provided . Registration required.

Planning 101

Harris Branch | Thurs., Dec. 1

Mishawaka Library | Thurs., Dec. 29 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Adults

Are you someone who loves to plan or is looking to get more organized? Then join us for Planning 101, where we’ll learn about fun, creative and beneficial ways to get organized . Each session, we’ll focus on a different topic, ensuring you’re able to stay on track no matter what is going on in life!

Dec. 1: Holiday Planning

Dec. 29: Planning for the New Year

Registration required for each session.

Snack Attack

Live on Zoom

1st Fridays: Dec. 2 & Jan. 6 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Adults

Sick of the same old store-bought snack? Ready to try a new simple recipe, but don’t know where to start? During this monthly virtual session, learn to create a new snack that will satisfy all the cravings in your household .

Dec. 2: Made in a Mug Jan. 6: Going Nutty

Registration required for each session.

DIY at Dusk

Bittersweet Branch Mondays Dec. 5 & Jan. 9

5:30-6:30 p.m.

Adults

Looking for a fun night out? Join us for an evening of creation! At the end of each session, participants will walk away with a product based on that day’s theme .

Dec. 5: Quilled Ornaments

Jan. 9: Paper Jewelry

Registration required for each session.

Take a Trip

Live on Zoom

1st Tuesdays: Dec. 6 & Jan. 3 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Adults

Eager to travel the world but aren’t sure where to start? Don’t have the resources to travel right now? (Hey, travel is expensive!) Then join us for this entertaining and educational exploration of the countries of the world! Each month, we’ll focus on a different country, virtually exploring the sights and sounds of each location while also learning about each country’s history and culture . Dec. 6: Norway Jan. 3: India

Registration required for each session.

Holiday Happenings

10:30-11:30 a.m. | Adults

Sick of buying expensive gift bags and treats? We can help! Make it a homemade holiday with a little creativity and a whole lot of fun.

Mishawaka Library: Wed., Dec. 7: Holiday Treats

Sat., Dec. 10: Gift Bags and Tags

Harris Branch: Fri., Dec. 9: Snowman Craft and Cocoa

Registration required for each session.

creativebug.com/lib/mphpl

Delectable Lit

Mishawaka

Library

2nd Thursdays: Dec. 8 & Jan. 12 5:30-7 p.m. | Adults

Nothing beats a good book and a good snack . In this unique book and food club, we get the chance to combine the two! Come join us as we discuss novels and learn to make delicious dishes . Books can be picked up a month in advance at the front desk .

Dec. 8: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Jan. 12: The Sirens of Titan by Kurt Vonnegut Registration required for each session.

Yak, Snack and Read

Bittersweet Branch/ Live on Zoom

2nd Tuesdays: Dec. 13 & Jan. 10 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Adults

Join one of our longest running morning book clubs! Books can be picked up a month in advance at the front desk .

Dec. 13: The Christmas Train by David Baldacci Jan. 10: One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus

Registration required for each session if attending via Zoom; no registration required for in person attendance.

Mug ‘n’ Muffin

Mishawaka

Library/Live on Zoom

3rd Thursdays: Dec. 15 & Jan. 19 10:15-11 a.m. Adults

Enjoy a morning of coffee, conversation and muffins! Books can be picked up a month in advance at the front desk .

Dec. 15: Murder Knocks Twice: A Mystery by Susanna Calkins Jan. 19: Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson Registration required for each session if attending via Zoom; no registration required for in person attendance.

Virtual Craft Hour Live on Zoom

3rd Fridays: Dec. 16 & Jan. 20 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Adults

Join us virtually for a morning of creation! In each session, a staff member will walk you through the creation of a craft project . Details on when and where to pick up program supplies will be sent via email to registrants

Dec. 16: Crepe Paper Trees Jan. 20: Macrame Keychain Registration required for each session.

Adults

Make with Us

Bittersweet Branch

10:30-11:30 a.m. | Adults

Join us for a morning of crafting and conversation! At the end of each session, participants will walk away with a product based on that day's theme.

Registration required for each session.

Mon., Dec. 19: Corkboard Coasters

Sat., Jan. 7: Pots and Plants

Tues., Jan. 17: Im-peck-able Bird Feeders with special guest Melissa Gunter, Education Chair for the South Bend-Elkhart Audubon Society

Mon., Jan. 23: Board Game Coasters

Mental Well-Being with Mental Health Awareness of Michiana

Mishawaka Library

Tuesdays: Dec. 20 & Jan. 17 6-7:30 p.m. | Adults

Wrap and Yap

Bittersweet Branch | Wed., Dec. 21 5-6:30 p.m. | Adults

Take the stress out of wrapping any last-minute gifts by doing it in the company of others!

Participants should bring their unwrapped gifts and are welcome to bring along their own supplies or use ours! We will provide supplies (wrapping paper, ribbon, tape, and scissors), light refreshments and a great atmosphere . Registration required.

Treat Yo’ Pup

Mishawaka Library

Thurs., Dec. 22 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Understanding mental health is key to our well-being . Join us for a series of talks presented by Mental Health Awareness of Michiana, a local organization that strives to educate our community about important mental health topics .

Dec. 20: Understanding Mental Health Jan. 17: Overcoming Mental Health Stigma Registration required for each session.

Adults

Don’t forget about Fido this holiday season! Your pup will have a new reason to hang around the kitchen as we learn how to make homemade dog treats . These will become a staple in your house year-round because they are doggone delicious . Registration required.

Adult Game Night!

Mishawaka Library

4th Tuesdays: Dec. 27 & Jan. 24 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Adults

Tabletop games galore! Come enjoy the classics as well as modern designer board games. Feel free to bring your own or play any of the many games we’ll have available. Registration required.

eGaming Night Mishawaka Library

Fri., Jan. 27 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Adults

Join us for a night of eGaming! We’ll have various forms of gaming available, including Nintendo Switch ™ and Wii ™ consoles as well as our VR equipment. Registration required.

Holiday Mocktails and Music

Mishawaka Library | Thurs., Dec. 22 6-7 p.m. | Adults

‘Tis the season for holiday cheer! At this event, all your favorite holiday music will be playing in the background as you sample festive mocktail recipes . So, grab a glass and be ready for a rockin’ good time . Registration required.

Sew Fun!

Mishawaka Library

Thursdays: Dec. 29 & Jan. 26 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Adults

Join us as we make creative and useful pieces while learning simple sewing techniques .

Dec. 29: Take care of your travel troubles with an eye mask.

Jan. 26: Give old book covers a new life. Join us as we sew one-of-a-kind bags disguised within hardcover books. Registration required for each session.

Cooking Classics

Bittersweet Branch | Wed., Jan. 4

Mishawaka Library | Thurs., Jan. 26 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Adults

Want to try your hand at easy culinary creations? Join us as we experiment with different flavors to make irresistibly delicious goodies!

Jan. 4: No Bake Granola

Jan. 26: 5 or Fewer Ingredients

Registration required for each session.

New Year, New Book

Mishawaka Library | Tues., Jan. 10 5-6:30 p.m. | Adults

When thinking of New Year’s resolutions, don’t forget to include your literary goals! Whether you want to try a new genre or read more frequently, we are here to help . Find a new book to curl up with and take some time for yourself! A preselected variety of books will be available to explore Registration required.

American Heritage Spotlight

Mishawaka Library | Tues., Jan. 10 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Adults

This month, speakers Dennis Engbrecht, Ph .D . and Brother Timothy Erdel will present The Miracle on McKinley: What Mishawaka Should Know about Bethel University Erdel is a professor at Bethel University and also serves as the school's archivist . Engbrecht is the Senior Vice President Emeritus and Professor of History Emeritus at Bethel University . Join us as we learn about the history of the university . No registration required.

Achieve Financial Well-Being, Keep a Budget and Save Money

Mishawaka Library | Tues., Jan. 24 6-7 p.m. | Adults

Participants will learn the concept of financial well-being and how to achieve it . They will learn how to set SMART Goals, prepare to create a Budget and start Saving as a strong financial foundation . This program will be presented by Luis Zapata, Vice President and Financial Education Administrator at 1st Source Bank and Adjunct Professor of Money and Banking at Indiana University South Bend . Registration required.

Virtual Movie Locations Tour

Live on Zoom Wed., Jan. 25 5:30-6:30 p.m. Adults

Get ready for the upcoming awards season by virtually visiting famous movie filming locations from across the globe! We’ll tour some of the most iconic sights associated with film history, covering both classic films and modern favorites . Registration required.

World Treat Tasting

Live on Zoom | Tues., Jan. 31 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Adults

Join us for a culinary tasting trip around the world! This virtual program will feature snacks from different countries and teach participants some culinary facts about the countries we visit . Registration required. Details on when and where to pick up program supplies will be sent via email to registrants

What do I need for a Library card?

To obtain your Library card you must:

1. Live in Penn or Harris township, or have a home Library card from a Library system which is reciprocal with MPHPL (some restrictions may apply).

2. Provide required documentation: (1) a valid photo ID with current address OR (2) a valid photo ID and proof of current address if ID address is not current OR (3) a valid photo ID and a valid resident home Library card for reciprocal applicants

3. A parent/legal guardian's signature is required for any minor under the age of 18 wishing to register for or renew a Library card.

*Non-residents may purchase a fee card. Contact Circulation Services for prices.

If your card has been lost or stolen, please call Circulation Services at any MPHPL location. You are financially responsible for material that is checked out until you report your card lost or stolen.

*Members must live in Penn or Harris township or in a reciprocal library district and provide a photo ID with proof of current address (utility or phone bill, car registration, etc.).

Lending Limits:

- Books & Audiobooks - No Limit

- Magazines, Music CDs, & Playaways - No Limit - New Release DVDs - 3 per card - Entertainment DVDs - 20 per card - TV Series & Non-Fiction DVDs - 20 per card

Fees and Fines: - New Release DVDs - $1 per day - All other items - 25¢ per day

Loan Periods:

- Books & Audiobooks - 21 days - Magazines, Music CDs & Playaways - 21 days - New Release DVDs - 7 days - Entertainment DVDs - 7 days - TV Series & Non-Fiction DVDs - 21 days

Renewals:

- All DVDs - No renewals

- All other items - 3 renewals, as long as no one else has placed a hold on the item.

- Eligible items will be automatically renewed 4 days before their due date if there is not a hold on the item. You will receive a courtesy notice if your items have been renewed.

Holds:

Placing a hold is free and available for all materials, excluding new release DVDs.

Get Reminders Before Materials are Due:

All you need is an email address! Ask about this service at the checkout desk.

Monday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Tuesday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Wednesday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thursday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday CLOSED

Monday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Tuesday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Wednesday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday CLOSED

Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday CLOSED

Monday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Tuesday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Wednesday CLOSED

Thursday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday CLOSED

PHOTO POLICY

We often take pictures at library events to use in library marketing materials and on our website . If you do not want us to use a picture of you or your child, please tell a librarian prior to the event .