Norfolk Public Library Fall and Holiday Guide 2024

Winding down with Norfolk Public Library!

Sonal Rastogi, Director of Libraries

Swing into the holidays with Norfolk Public Library!

The Norfolk Public Library family is excited to get into the holiday spirit following another successful Summer Reading Program. With the help of our partners from Friends of the NPL and the Nutrition Department of Norfolk Public Schools, we were able to provide featured weekly entertainment performances and educational experiences at each of our locations and thousands of free meals and books to our younger patrons. This summer there truly was an adventure to be had at NPL and we hope you all had as much fun participating as we had in serving you. NPL has also been busy upgrading its facilities throughout the City of Norfolk. The Lafayette and Larchmont branches both saw major renovations to their buildings, ranging

from new shelving, carpeting and paint at both locations to ceiling and skylight repairs at Lafayette and construction of an ADA compliant ramp at Larchmont. Our Janaf branch also received a new circulation desk, there have ongoing repairs to the infrastructure of the Blyden branch. And The Downtown Branch at Slover is in the process of adding a computer lab and teen zone. As always, we thank you for your continued support as we improve our branches and find more ways to be a lifelong learning resource for our community. We are excited to present to you in this guide all the programming we have planned in the upcoming months. From various seasonal Storytimes and continual early literacy programs for our youth to technology classes and craft workshops for adults, I’m sure there is something you will find throughout these pages that will pique your interest. And keep an eye on the calendar for when we celebrate TeenTober and International Games Week. From all of us here at Norfolk Public Library, we wish you a momentous remainder of 2024 and hope you participate in one of our many programs meant to foster continued learning, education and sense of community.

Warmest regards,

Sonal Rastogi

LIBRARY HOURS

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch at Broad Creek

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

Richard A. Tucker Memorial Library

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

Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m

Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m

Sunday: Closed

Sargeant Memorial Collection

Monday (Telephone only): noon-5 p.m.

Tuesday-Friday: noon-5 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday: Closed

Downtown Branch at Slover

Monday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m

Tuesday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-7 p.m

Friday-Saturday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

All Other Branches:

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

Saturday-Sunday: Closed

HOLIDAY CLOSINGS

LABOR DAY Monday, Sept. 2

ELECTION DAY Tuesday, Nov. 5

VETERANS DAY Monday, Nov. 11 THANKSGIVING DAY Thursday, Nov. 28

CHRISTMAS DAY Wednesday, Dec. 25

NORFOLK PUBLIC LIBRARY LOCATIONS

Barron F. Black Branch 6700 E. Tanners Creek Drive 757-441-5806

Blyden Branch 879 E. Princess Anne Road 757-441-2852

Downtown Branch at Slover 235 E. Plume St. 757-431-7491

Janaf Branch 124 Janaf Shopping Center 757-441-5660

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek 1425 Norchester Ave. 757-823-4800

Lafayette Branch 1610 Cromwell Drive 757-441-2842

Larchmont Branch 6525 Hampton Blvd. 757-441-5335

Little Creek Branch 7853 Tarpon Place 757-441-1751

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch 111 W. Ocean View Ave. 757-441-1750

Park Place Branch 620 W. 29th St. 757-664-7330

Richard A. Tucker Memorial Library 2350 Berkley Ave. EXT 757-823-4200

Sargeant Memorial Collection 235 E. Plume St., 2nd Floor 757-431-7429

Van Wyck Branch 1368 DeBree Ave. 757-441-2844

Mobile Delivery 757-664-7328 ext. 371

Library Information 757-664-7328 www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org

EARLY LITERACY PROGRAMS

LEARNING BEGINS at birth !

Storytimes

Grow a happy, healthy baby one rhyme at a time!

Babygarten features 60 minutes of fun songs, playful movement activities, colorful toys, board books and great resources for parents. (Babies, ages 0-2)

Mondays @ 11 a.m.-noon Park Place

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Little Creek

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

(Will not be held 11/5, 11/26, 12/24)

Richard A. Tucker Memorial (9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29)

Larchmont

(Will not be held 11/5)

Tuesdays @ 10:30 a.m.-noon

Van Wyck

(Will not be held 11/5, 11/26, 12/24)

Tuesdays @ 11:00 a.m.-noon

Barron F. Black

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch

(Starting 10/1; Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Tuesdays @ 1-2 p.m.

Blyden

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Lafayette

Thursdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Janaf

(Will not be held 11/28)

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

(Will not be held (11/28, 12/26)

Larchmont

(Will not be held 11/28)

Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Downtown Branch at Slover (Will not be held 11/29)

Select Saturdays @ 11-noon

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch

(9/14, 9/28, 10/12, 10/26, 11/9, 11/23, 12/14, 12/28)

Toddler Time

Toddler Times are engaging programs centered on rhymes, music, movement and books. (Toddlers, ages 2-3)

Mondays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Larchmont

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Larchmont

(Will not be held 11/28, 12/24)

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Downtown Branch at Slover (Will not be held 10/23, 10/30, 11/20)

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch (Will not be held in Oct., 11/27, 12/25)

Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Lafayette (Will not be held 11/29)

Select Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Van Wyck

(9/6, 9/20, 10/4, 10/18, 11/1, 11/15, 12/6, 12/20)

Storytimes are centered on seasonal concepts and themes.

(Preschool and Elementary age, ages 3-6)

Travel Time Storytime with Ms. Carolyn

Select Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 (9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/30)

Richard A. Tucker Memorial

Bird Storytime

Tuesday, Sept. 10 @ 2-3 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

Slovey’s Autumn Reading Night Select Tuesdays @ 4-6 p.m. (9/24, 10/22, 11/19, 12/3)

Downtown Branch at Slover

Dragon Storytime at Sunset

Tuesday, Sept. 24 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

Dress-Up Storytime at Sunset Tuesday, Oct. 22 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

Cozy Storytime

Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 2-3 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

Turkey Storytime at Sunset Tuesday, Nov. 26 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

Winter Wonderland Storytime Tuesday, Dec. 10 @ 2-3 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

BABIES, TODDLERS, PRESCHOOL & SCHOOL AGE

KinderSTEM

Help your child get ready for kindergarten with a fun, interactive program that teaches children basic concepts through group activities, books and hands-on exploration at individual learning stations. (Preschool, ages 3-5)

Mondays @ 11 a.m.-noon

Barron F. Black

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Downtown Branch at Slover

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Lafayette

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Tuesdays @ 11 a.m.-noon

Park Place

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Select Tuesdays @ 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Richard A. Tucker Memorial

(9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29)

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Janaf

(Will not be held 12/25)

Thursdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Little Creek

(Will not be held 10/31, 11/28)

Thursdays @ 10:30 a.m.-noon

Van Wyck

(Will not be held 10/24, 10/31, 11/21, 11/28)

Thursdays @ 1-2 p.m.

Blyden

(Will not be held 11/28)

Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

(Will not be held 11/28, 12/26)

Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch (Will not be held 10/25, 11/29, 12/20, 12/27)

1-2-3 Play With Me

Tuesdays in Sept. @ 11 a.m.

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch

Select Wednesdays @ 11 a.m.

Downtown Branch at Slover (12/4, 12/11, 12/18)

Wednesdays in Oct. @ 10:30 a.m.

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch (Will not be held 10/23, 12/25)

Select Wednesdays @ 10:30 a.m.

Richard A. Tucker Memorial (11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 11/27)

www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org

Build Bash

Design and build structures using BUILD materials such as Lincoln Logs, KEVA planks, Power Clix, Goobis and more. Let your imagination go wild and construct amazing creations. With creativity you can enhance your S.T.E.M skills.

(Elementary school and tweens, ages 5-12)

Mondays @ 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Blyden

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Mondays @ 4-5 p.m.

Janaf

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Select Tuesdays @ 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Larchmont (9/10, 10/08, 11/12, 12/10)

Select Tuesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch (9/17, 10/15, 11/19, 12/17)

Wednesdays @ 4-5 p.m.

Van Wyck

(Will not be held 11/27, 12/25)

Thursdays @ 3-4:30 p.m.

Lafayette (Will not be held 11/28)

Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch

(Will not be held 11/28)

Park Place

(Will not be held 10/31, 11/28)

Select Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Barron F. Black (9/12, 9/26, 10/10, 10/24, 11/14, 12/12, 12/26)

Little Creek (9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19)

BARRON F. BLACK BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES

Babygarten

Tuesdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Mondays @ 11 a.m.-noon (Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Spooktacular Storytime @ BFB Monday, Oct. 21 @ 11 a.m.

Join us for crafts, tales, tricks and treats at this Halloween-themed Storytime!

Turkey Time Storytime @ BFB

Wednesday, Nov. 27 @ 11 a.m.-noon

Come listen to turkey tales, eat treats and give lots of thanks!

‘Tis the Season Storytime Friday, Dec. 20 @ 11 a.m.-noon

Celebrate the season with treats, crafts and lots of festive excitement!

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Select Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. (9/12, 9/26, 10/10, 10/24, 11/14, 12/12, 12/26)

TWEENS & TEENS

Gaming @ BFB

Select Wednesdays @ 4-5:45 p.m. (9/4, 9/18, 10/2, 10/16, 11/6, 11/20, 12/4, 12/18)

From board games to PS5 to Nintendo Switch, we’ve got something for everyone. Get your game on against some friendly competition!

TEENS

TeenTober

Select Thursdays @ 4-5:45 p.m.

Kick back and chill out for TeenTober!

Oct. 3-Cupcake Decorating Oct. 10-Classic Video Games

Oct. 17-The Addams Family (1991, PG-13) Oct. 24-Evil Eye Charm Bracelets

ADULTS

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Winter Treats (Cookies) Friday, Dec. 6 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. Registration required at norfolk. libcal.com.

Learn how to make delicious cookies and customize to your liking. Make some for a friend or take home to enjoy.

ALL AGES

Pumpkin Painting Party

Wednesday, Oct. 23 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Celebrate spooky season at our annual painting event! Small pumpkins will be provided.

Monster Mash

Thursday, Oct. 31 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

We’ll have a spooky Storytime, a Balloon Creatures by Susan show and trick-or-treating stations set up throughout the library – along with plenty of pizza and snacks. Don’t forget to wear your costume and get a head start on candy collecting.

International Games Week

Thursday, Nov. 7-Wednesday, Nov. 13 @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

(Will not be held on 11/11)

Stop by and try your hand at dozens of board games and gaming consoles!

Happy Hanukkah How-To Thursday, Dec. 19 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Hear about the history of Hanukkah, learn how to play dreidel and snack on doughnuts and chocolate coins in this early celebration of the Festival of Lights!

First Friday Films

First Fridays @ 4-5:45 p.m.

Bring the gang for a family-friendly feature film! Don’t worry about the snacks — we’ve got you covered.

Sept. 6-The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023, PG)

Oct. 4-Hocus Pocus (1993, PG)

Nov. 1-Coco (2017, PG)

Dec. 6-The Santa Clause (1994, PG)

Second Friday Art

Select Fridays @ 5-5:45 p.m.

Contact branch to register. Learn from local professional artists from Tidewater Arts Outreach as they lead this art-themed series.

Sept. 13-Creating with Colors

Oct. 11-Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Nov. 8-Celebrating Native American Heritage Month

Dec. 13-Holiday Magic

FAMILIES

Family Game Night

Thursday, Nov. 7 @ 4-5:45 p.m.

Battle it out in Super Smash Bros., strategize during a chess match or buy Boardwalk in Monopoly! Join us for some friendly competition and celebrate International Games Week.

Crafternoon

Select Wednesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Get crafty during an afternoon of creativity!

Sept. 11-Autumn Trees Paint Night

Oct. 9-Trick-or-Treat Totes

Nov. 13-Thankful Table Trimmings Dec. 11-Holiday Keepsakes

BLYDEN BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES

Babygarten

Tuesdays @ 1-2 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Thursdays @ 1-2 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/28)

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Mondays @ 3:30-5:30 p.m.

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Creepy Countdown Storytime

Thursday, Oct. 3 @ 11 a.m.

From 1 to 10 and back again, let your little ones shiver and shake through this interactive Halloween Storytime!

Eight Winter Nights Storytime

Thursday, Dec. 19 @ 11 a.m. This Storytime will explore different winter celebrations through storytime, rhymes and games.

TWEENS & TEENS

Coders/Programmers Talk Thursday, Nov. 7 @ 4 p.m. We’ve partnered with programmers to show young gamers how to profit from their favorite pastime.

TEENS

TeenTober: Fright Night, Movie Nights

Tuesdays @ 3:30-5:45 p.m. (10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29)

Who doesn’t love a good horror flick? Every Tuesday, we invite any thrillseeking teens to our meeting room for popcorn and a scary movie.

TeenTober: Costume Contest

Thursday, Oct. 31 @ 4-5 p.m.

Teens want to join in the fun too! Enjoy our safe space with a costume contest for teens who want to celebrate Halloween. (Ages 13-17)

TeenTober: Game Day!

Wednesdays @ 3:30-5:45 p.m. (10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30)

Calling all PC gamers! We will be playing different Mega Games each week so come experience your favorites!

ADULTS

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Winter Treats (Rice Krispies)

Wednesday, Dec. 4 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Registration at norfolk.libcal.com. Learn how to make delicious Rice Krispie Treats and customize to your liking. Make some for a friend or take home to enjoy.

Men’s Conference

Tuesday, Nov. 19 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

Attend our inclusive conference with presentations aimed to empower men and their various health needs.

ALL AGES

Comic Creations!

September 1-24 @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

YOU are invited to stop by and create your own comic strips! The best part? During the last week, join us for a comic book “release party” and show your work to your friends, family and the rest of the world!

Reading is Fundamental

Friday, Sept. 6 @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Literacy is a gift that keeps on giving! Join us to hear excerpts from letters written by the library’s namesake.

Farmer Friday

Fridays @ 4-5 p.m.

(10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25)

In honor of Vegetarian Awareness Month, come discover dishes that feature fruits and vegetables grown by farmers!

Fiesta!

Friday, Oct. 4 @ 4-5 p.m.

Celebrate our first Farmer Friday with crafts, drinks and of course, tacos! Vegetarian options will be available.

Open Books, Open Borders

Friday, Nov. 1 @ 4:30 p.m.

NPL will host an array of speakers to discuss the importance of books in spreading information around the world.

Norfolkopoly

Friday, Nov. 8 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

Do you think you can make Norfolk money? Come prove it and celebrate the City of Norfolk at the same time. Don’t get trumped!

Computer Gaming

Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

Celebrate International Games Week by checking out our computer games!

Giant Jenga

Wednesday, Nov. 13 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

Builders and destroyers, come test those STEM skills to see whose tower is best.

FAMILIES

Pumpkin Painting

Friday, Oct. 25 @ 4-5 p.m.

Commemorate this fall season by painting a sweet or scary pumpkin to decorate your home. All supplies will be provided.

DOWNTOWN BRANCH AT SLOVER

BABIES & TODDLERS

Babygarten

Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 11/29)

Toddler Time

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. (Will not be held 10/23, 10/30, 11/20)

1-2-3 Play With Me

Select Wednesdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (12/4, 12/11, 12/18)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Preschool Science Lab

Select Thursdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Introduce the wonders of science to your tiny scholar.

Slovey’s Autumn Reading Night

Select Tuesdays @ 4-6 p.m. (9/24, 10/22, 11/19, 12/3)

Join us for Storytimes and open reading as part of NPL’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten-initiative.

ELEMENTARY AGE

Magic Treehouse Book Club

Select Thursdays @ 4-5 p.m. (9/5, 10/3, 11/7, 12/5)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Follow the adventures of Jack and Annie! Each month, we’ll talk about a specific Magic Treehouse book with a themed activity/craft/snack!

Lego Club

Select Saturdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (9/21, 10/19, 11/16, 12/21) You bring the creativity–we provide the Legos! Explore a different building theme each month.

TWEENS & TEENS

Teen Entrepreneur Workshop

Saturday, Sept. 7 @ noon-1 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Interested in becoming a teen entrepreneur? Join us for an interactive and informative workshop with the Roy E. Hendrix Business Center. We will target key focus areas and guide you toward the path of entrepreneurship!

Write Now! Kids & Teens

Select Tuesdays @ 5-7 p.m. (9/10, 10/8, 11/12, 12/10)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Monthly online writing workshops with The Muse Writers Center. Everyone is a writer on the inside, and we can help you bring those words out—you can Write Now!

TeenTober: Lights, Camera, Action! Monday, Oct. 14 @ 2:30-4:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Are you interested in photography? Join us for a workshop with Tidewater Waves! We will discuss filming sets, backdrops, lighting and staging.

TEENS

TeenTober: Escape Room Saturday, Oct. 12 @ 1:30-4:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Sign up for a 30-minute time slot and crack the mystery to escape with Grandma’s Money Bags! Will you achieve greatness and escape with the cash or be left without Grandma’s fortune?

TeenTober: Trick or Trivia

Saturday, Oct. 26 @ noon-1 p.m.

How well do you know the Boogeyman? What about the things that go bump in the night or all things creepy crawly? Test your horror knowledge at our fun trivia challenge! Team up or play solo to win prizes and be crowned Pumpkin King.

ADULTS

ESL Casual Conversations

Select Wednesdays @ 11:30 a.m-12:30 p.m.

(9/4, 9/18, 10/2, 10/16, 11/6, 11/20, 12/4, 12/18)

Join a warm and welcoming group to help non-native speakers practice their English language skills through casual conversations, guided games and activities.

Blackout Poetry

Thursday, Sept. 5 @ 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14 @ 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Tell a story or express your feelings through blackout poetry. Attendees will use markers to cross out words in a book to create an amazing poem!

Adult Tabletop Gaming

Select Saturdays @ noon-5 p.m. (9/7, 9/21, 10/5, 10/19, 11/2, 11/16, 12/7, 12/14)

Welcome, adventurers! Bring your own games to test and play or join an ongoing campaign. Current games include Dungeons & Dragons, 5th edition.

Spouses Read Stories

Book Club

Select Saturdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (9/7, 10/5, 11/2, 12/7)

Join a welcoming group of readers at this military spouse-centered book club! Book selections include fiction ranging from sci-fi to chick-lit!

DOWNTOWN BRANCH AT SLOVER

Love to Read Book Club

Select Wednesdays @ 5:30-6:30 p.m.

(9/11, 10/9, 11/13, 12/11)

We want to talk about books with you! Join us for a casual meetup to discuss what we’ve read in the last month. Light refreshments provided.

Ancient Celebrations: Cultural Adventures Through Crafting

Learn about ancient cultures while engaging your creative side by constructing a themed craft!

9/19 @ 5:30-6:30 p.m.-Hispanic Heritage Month

10/26 @ 2-3 p.m.-Precursors to Halloween 11/21 @ 1-2 p.m.-Native American Heritage Month

12/14 @ 1-2 p.m.-Winter Solstice Celebrations

Write Now! Adults

Select Tuesdays @ 5-7 p.m.

(9/24, 10/22, 11/26, 12/17) Register at norfolk.libcal.com

We believe that everyone can write and this online class can help you hone your writing skills. An instructor from The Muse Writers Center will lead you in a series of guided, timed writing prompts which can be shared with the class for feedback.

Make a Tiny Banned Book

Saturday, Sept. 28 @ 1-2 p.m.

Celebrate the freedom to read and National Banned Books Week by making your OWN tiny, banned book. This can be worn on a chain or made into a magnet.

ODU’s Writers in Community Presents: The Art of Fiction

Saturday, Sept. 28 @ 2-3 p.m.

Join writers from ODU’s Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing Program as they teach the basics of fictional writing forms including short stories, flash narratives and longer novels.

Get Your Vote On! Voter

Registration Drive with the League of Women Voters

Saturday, Oct. 5 @ 1-4 p.m.

The nonpartisan League of Women Voters will have a table where guests can register to vote in time for the General Election.

Downtown Norfolk Architectural Tour

Monday, Oct. 14 @ 10-11 a.m.

Walk with us through the branch neighborhood for a tour and learn about local architectural history with a staff expert. Wear your walking shoes and dress for the weather.

Question, Persuade, Refer

Saturday, Oct. 19 @ 12:30-2 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

This partnership with the Sarah Michelle Peterson Foundation teaches teens how to recognize the warning signs of suicide and how to get help for someone having a mental health emergency. Obtain a free QPR certification that is valid for two years! (Ages 15+)

Native American Life—Now and Then

Saturday, Nov. 2 @ 10 a.m.-noon

Join members of Virginia’s Chickahominy Tribe to learn cultural information and powwow customs, and witness an artifact display and a dance presentation in full regalia!

Getting To Know You

Thursday, Nov. 7 @ 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Gain insight on how to interview family members in order to learn about their past, present and the legacy they wish to leave behind.

ODU’s Writers in Community Presents: The Art of Poetry

Saturday, Nov. 9 @ 2-3 p.m.

Join writers from ODU’s Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing Program as they teach the basics of popular poetry forms for beginners. There will be an opportunity for you to share your work with your peers!

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Winter Treats (Cookies)

Saturday, Nov. 16 @ 1 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Learn how to make delicious cookies and customize to your liking. Make some for a friend or yourself to enjoy.

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Body Scrubs

Saturday, Dec. 7 @ 1 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Gift a handmade body scrub jar to a loved one (or yourself!) with your own custom scent.

ALL AGES

We Love the Slover Tour

Select Mondays @ 10-11 a.m. (9/16, 10/24)

We love our library and want to share it with you! Join a staff tour guide for a behind-the-scenes tour of The Slover.

Banned

Books Rock!

Saturday, Sept. 21 @ 1-2 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 24 @ 2-3 p.m.

Celebrate National Banned Books

Week and the freedom to read by painting your favorite banned book on a rock. Then, place these rocks around our community to promote a love of reading!

DOWNTOWN BRANCH AT SLOVER

Spooky Selfie Station

October 19-30

Don’t miss your opportunity to take a Halloween-themed selfie

Boo! BINGO

Saturday, Oct. 26 @ 1-2 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Don’t be scared, our annual Boo! Bingo program is back. Have some spooky fun with Halloween-themed prizes for the winners.

Winter Wonderland Singalong

Saturday, Dec. 14

@ 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m.

Raise your voice in song! Join us for a group sing-along at the Downtown Branch at Slover. Our talented staff will lead the tunes in this musical treat for the entire community.

Winter Wonderland Reindeer

Thumbprint Craft

Saturday, Dec. 14 @ 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Make some holiday memories with this cute reindeer ornament crafting session.

Snowflake Bingo

Saturday, Dec. 14 @ 2-3 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Bundle up, Bingo players! Join us for a fun and frosty all-ages Bingo hour with winter prizes!

Holiday Selfie Station

December 14-23

Get into the holiday spirit! Take your holiday card photo or create a family memory with our festive selfie stations.

FAMILIES

Crafty Hour

Select Wednesdays @ 4-5 p.m. (9/11, 10/9, 11/13, 12/11)

Pop in for an afternoon of crafts!

Play-Doh Playdate

Saturday, Sept. 14 @ 10-11 a.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Let your imagination run wild as you squish, roll and shape in celebration of National Play-Doh Day.

Family LEGO Challenge

Saturday, Sept. 14 @ 11 a.m.-noon Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Gather your loved ones for fun-filled morning of creativity and teamwork. Teams will compete and showcase their unique Lego creations for a chance to win a prize.

We All Have Mental Health

Saturday, Sept. 14

@ 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The Sarah Michelle Peterson Foundation will discuss teen mental health and common signs of depression. Be informed—you may save a life!

(Tweens-and-Up)

Bilingual Storytime

Saturday, Sept. 28 @ 11 a.m.-noon Register at norfolk.libcal.com

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, join us for an English-Spanish Storytime that will feature songs, rhymes and books.

Trick-or-Treat Carnival

Saturday, Oct. 26 @ 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Wear your costume and join us for Halloween festivities and candy!

Pumpkinpalooza Storytime

Wednesday, Oct. 30

@ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Listen to pumpkin-themed stories and rhymes while you make a craft.

Princess and Prince Tea Party

Saturday, Nov. 9 @ 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Join us for an afternoon of royal delights where little ones can dress in their finest attire and sip on tea. There will be dancing, crafts and activities that will make every princess and prince feel like royalty.

Family Board Game Night

Wednesday, Nov. 13 @ 5-6:30 p.m.

In celebration of International Games Week, bring your friends and family to experience the joy of play together.

Thanksgiving Storytime

Wednesday, Nov. 20 @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Flap your wings and enjoy some turkey-themed fun during this delightful Storytime filled with books, rhymes and a craft.

Mutual Aid Workshop

Thursday, Nov. 21 @ 5-6 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com to receive meeting link.

This virtual meeting on Mutual Aid provides a way for our Hampton Roads community to collectively discuss ways to support/aid those in need.

(Ages 9-and-up)

Eat What You Read

Saturday, Nov. 23 @ 11 a.m.-noon

This Storytime involves a bookthemed snack that will turn reading into a memorable experience for kids. Supplies are limited.

DOWNTOWN BRANCH AT SLOVER

Winter Wonderland

Saturday, Dec. 14

@ 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Ring in the holidays with crafts, bingo, music and performances to get into the spirit of the season.

Nailed It/Failed It: Christmas Cookie Edition

Saturday, Dec. 14 @ 11 a.m.-noon

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Test out your decoration skills as we try to recreate different holiday cookie designs.

Jingle Bell Storytime

Wednesday, Dec. 18

@ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Join us for a holiday Storytime filled with joy and cheer!

Second Annual Slovey’s Rocking Noon Year Eve

Saturday, Dec. 28 @ 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Celebrate the New Year with crafts, a dance party, photo booths and a balloon drop at noon.

DOWNTOWN BRANCH AT SLOVER JANAF BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES

Babygarten

Thursdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 11/28)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 12/25)

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Mondays @ 4-5 p.m.

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Lego Builders

Wednesdays @ 4-5 p.m.

(Will not be held 12/25)

Come have fun with Lego building blocks! Use a blueprint or let your imagination run wild.

(Ages 6+)

TEENS

Teen Advisory

Select Tuesdays @ 4-5 p.m. (10/1, 11/5, 12/3)

Join us every month for snacks, games and the opportunity to help create the programs you want to see at our branch!

TeenTober

Tuesday, Oct. 8 @ 4-5 p.m.

Join us for a funtastic, TeenTober Game night, featuring board games, video games and snacks!

ADULTS

eMedia Morning

Select Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. (9/24, 10/29, 11/26, 12/31)

Learn how to access movies, music and more for free using your Norfolk Public Library Card.

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Winter Treats (Cookies) Friday, Nov. 15 @ 4 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Learn how to make cookies and customize to your liking. Make some for a friend or take home to enjoy.

FAMILIES

Family Game Night

Thursday, Nov. 7 & Friday, Nov. 8 @ 4-5 p.m.

Bring the whole crew to play classic board games and put together crafts!

JORDAN-NEWBY ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY AT BROAD

CREEK

BABIES & TODDLERS

Babygarten

Select Saturdays @ 11-noon (9/14, 9/28, 10/12, 10/26, 11/9, 11/23, 12/14, 12/28)

Tuesdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (Starting 10/1; Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

1-2-3 Play With Me

Tuesdays in Sept. @ 11-noon

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Mondays @ 11-noon

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

Family Fun Day @ Jordan-Newby

Select Thursdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19)

Join us for Family Fun Day where we will have a variety of activities, crafts, games and more for you and your little ones!

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/28)

It’s Switcheroo Gaming!

Tuesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Fill these nights with Nintendo Switch games and new friends!

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Art Studio Happy Hour

Wednesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Each week we will have a variety of crafting material set up in the art studio including painting, sewing, coloring, origami and more!

(Ages 5-11)

STEAM Lab

Select Tuesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. (9/10, 10/8, 11/12, 12/10) Learn and build science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics related creations!

(Ages 6-11)

Pumpkin Patch Storytime

Wednesday, Oct. 9 @ 11 a.m.

Ring in the fall season during our Pumpkin Patch Storytime!

Boo Halloween Storytime

Wednesday, Oct. 30 @ 11 a.m.

Come in your Halloween costume to this spooky Storytime!

Final Boss Friday

Friday, Nov. 8 @ 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Think you can make it to the end and challenge the boss!? Join us for an hour of Nintendo Switch gaming and make some new friends!

Jingle Bells Storytime

Friday, Dec. 20 @ 11 a.m.

Celebrate the winter holidays during our Jingle Bells Storytime!

TWEENS & TEENS

TeenTober:

Pumpkin Carving Contest

Wednesday, Oct. 30 @ 5-6 p.m.

It’s getting spooky out in Broad Creek! Join us at our first-ever Pumpkin Carving Contest! There will be music, refreshments and more as well as a prize for the best carved pumpkin!

Top Chef Team Tournament

Wednesday, Nov. 13 @ 5-7 p.m. Contact branch to register. Can you tell a plum from a tomato blindfolded? Or decorate a cupcake perfectly based on a photo? If you think you can, join us for our tournament based on skills, taste and teamwork!

(Ages 11+)

TEENS

TeenTober: Teen Cookoff

Wednesday, Oct. 2 @ 5-6 p.m.

Do you have what it takes to be the grilling champion? We challenge you to make the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich. We’ll bring the supplies; you bring the skills!

TeenTober:

Halloween Movie Marathon

Wednesday, Oct. 9 @ 3-7:30 p.m.

Say Boo! Join us for a scary movie marathon featuring Boo! A Madea Halloween (2016, PG-13) and Boo 2! A Madea Halloween (2017, PG-13).

TeenTober: Pizza & Paint

Wednesday, Oct. 16 @ 5-6 p.m.

Calling all teens for pizza and painting, need we say more? Join us for an evening of artistic expression and pizza! A step-by-step painting tutorial will be provided.

Gaming Cooldown

Friday, Nov. 8 @ 3:30-4:30 p.m.

What better way to get ready for the weekend than a video game cool-down? Join us for a couple of rounds on the PS5!

www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org for a complete listing of events.

JORDAN-NEWBY ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY AT BROAD CREEK

Let the Games Begin Movie

Marathon: Hunger Games

Thursday, Nov. 14 @ 3:30-7:45 p.m.

Join us for an afternoon movie marathon featuring The Hunger Games (2012, PG-13) and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013, PG-13). Light refreshments provided!

ADULTS

Crochet Club

Select Saturdays @ 1-2 p.m. (9/7, 9/21, 10/5, 10/19, 11/2, 11/16, 12/7, 12/21)

Learn the art of crochet and other fiber arts! Or bring your own project and material to work on! Supplies will be provided.

Yoga at the Library

Wednesday, Sept. 11 @ 5-6 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Experience the transformative power of yoga and enhance your physical and mental health with our expert-led class.

Silent Book Party

Saturday, Sept. 14 @ noon-2 p.m.

Discover the magic of silent book parties and connect with fellow book enthusiasts as you immerse yourself in a tranquil and engaging atmosphere. Don’t forget a book!

Identity Fraud Workshop for Seniors

Wednesday, Sept. 18

@ noon-1 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Discover essential strategies to prevent identity theft at our workshop tailored for seniors. Equip yourself with the tools needed to stay safe in today’s digital world.

Classic Movie Night

Tuesday, Sept. 24 @ 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Dress in your best ‘80s outfit, grab some popcorn and join for a screening of the classic ‘80s movie, Back to the Future (1985, PG).

Rep Your Alma Mater

Wednesday, Sept. 25

@ noon-4 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Introducing our unique, throwback homecoming program! We invite our seniors to join us for an afternoon of dancing, music and socializing with fellow high school or college alumni.

(Ages 50-and-over)

Latin Dance Class

Saturday, Oct. 5 @ 12-1 p.m.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning the Merengue and Bachata! This event is free, open to the public and perfect for beginners. Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for dancing are recommended.

Canvas Cuisine Paint Night

Tuesday, Oct. 8 @ 5:30-7 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Join us for an evening to unwind, socialize and explore your artistic side. Indulge in a delightful combination of canvas paint night and delectable dishes.

Diamond Art Crafting

Wednesday, Oct. 9

@ 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Come discover the joy of bringing beautiful masterpieces to life, one gem at a time.

Line Dancing

Saturday, Nov. 9 @ noon-1 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Limited to 25 participants. Enjoy an hour of line dancing at the library! Learn basic line dance steps while engaging in a workout with friends or by yourself.

Retirement Workshop for Seniors

Wednesday, Nov. 20 @ 1-2 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Attend this retirement workshop to learn essential tips for a successful retirement. Explore topics like financial planning, healthcare options and lifestyle adjustments. Secure your future today!

Puzzle Challenge

Tuesday, Dec. 3 @ 5:30-6:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Experience the ultimate puzzle challenge and enjoy a friendly competition to see who the best puzzler is! A prize is waiting for the winner.

Coffee & Canvases

Saturday, Dec. 7 @ 10:30 a.m.-noon

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Create a self-guided painting at your own pace while enjoying a cup of coffee. All supplies will be provided, including a pre-drawn canvas and easy instructions to help you create your art on this relaxing morning.

DIY Snow Globe

Tuesday, Dec. 10 @ 5-6 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Create your own winter wonderland with our DIY snow globe program. Join us for a hands-on crafting experience like no other.

JORDAN-NEWBY ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY AT BROAD CREEK

ALL AGES

Halloweentown

Tuesday, Oct. 29 @ 4-7:30 p.m.

This Fall Festival program offers a variety of spooky activities for all ages to enjoy. Don’t miss out on all the excitement and join us for a day of thrills and chills!

Native American Heritage Month Screening

Tuesday, Nov. 26 @ 6-7:30 p.m.

Join us for the film Smoke Signals (1998, PG-13) in honor of Native American Heritage Month.

FAMILIES

Kids Movie Night

Thursdays @ 4:30-6:30 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/28)

Each week we’ll screen a different movie. Some will be throwbacks while others will be new releases!

Sensory Hour Fridays

Fridays @ 4-5 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/29)

This hour offers an opportunity for families to connect and enjoy a designated quiet space where children can read and participate in sensory-focused activities.

Community Baby Shower

Saturday, Oct. 19 @ noon-3 p.m.

Whether you are an expecting parent or have recently welcomed a little one into your life, our community baby shower program is here to provide you with resources and support. Join us for this inclusive event and enjoy free giveaways, food, information tables and more!

Family Bingo Night

Thursday, Nov. 7 @ 4:30-6 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Did somebody say Bingo night? Join us for our first family Bingo night! This year’s theme is Carnival complete with popcorn and music!

LAFAYETTE BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES & TODDLERS

Babygarten

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

ToddlerTime

Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 11/29)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 11/5)

During these special KinderSTEMs, we’ll read a fun, holiday-themed story and then learn important skills through games and crafts!

Oct. 29-Candy Corn Storytime

Nov. 26-Thanksgiving Storytime

Dec. 17-Up on the Rooftop Storytime

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Thursdays @ 3-4:30 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/28)

Freaky Friday with the Norfolk Park Rangers

Friday, Oct. 18 and Friday, Oct. 25 @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Join us at the Lafayette Library for spooky Storytimes with Norfolk Park Rangers! We’ll learn all about the many creepy critters and nocturnal creatures that live around us.

TWEENS

Wetlands & Watersheds with the Norfolk Botanical Garden Friday, Sept. 20 @ noon-1:30 p.m.

Join us for an exciting lesson about the wetlands of Southeast Virginia with the Norfolk Botanical Garden. Use an EnviroScape model that simulates real-life Chesapeake Bay watershed!

TEENS

TeenTober: Dungeons & Dragons—Castle Ravenloft

Tuesday, Oct. 15 @ 3-4:30 p.m. Contact branch for more information.

Attention, Dungeons & Dragons fans! You are invited to put your tabletop gaming skills to the test and play through a spooky adventure from the Castle Ravenloft game.

ADULTS

Autumn Jewelry Workshops Select Thursdays @ 4-5 p.m. (9/12, 10/3, 11/7)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com Limited to 15 participants Alodeuri Jewelry is back with an autumn-themed workshop series! Join us to create a pair of earrings in September, bracelets in October and a necklace in November.

Homemade for the Holidays: Loom Knitting Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 4 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Create homemade loom for a loved one (or yourself), that will be sure to please!

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Winter Treats (Cookies) Friday, Dec. 13 @ 4 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Learn how to make delicious cookies and customize them to your liking. Make some for a friend (or yourself) to enjoy.

FAMILIES

Family Board Game Party

Thursday, Nov. 14 @ 3-4 p.m. Celebrate International Games Week with an awesome board game party! We’ll have child-friendly classics like Apples to Apples and UNO, as well as trickier titles like Catan and Ticket to Ride.

LARCHMONT BRANCH LIBRARY

***Indoor program space is limited.***

BABIES & TODDLERS

Babygarten

Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 11/5, 11/28)

Toddler Time

Mondays and Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11, 12/24)

PRESCHOOL

Pumpkin Patch Storytime

Friday, Oct. 25 @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Celebrate fall at our seasonal pumpkin patch Storytime!

Turkey Storytime

Wednesday, Nov. 27

@ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Celebrate Thanksgiving at our holiday-themed Storytime!

Gingerbread Mouse Storytime

Wednesday, Dec. 11 @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Celebrate the winter holidays at this special seasonal Storytime!

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Select Tuesdays @ 3:30-4:30 p.m. (9/10, 10/08, 11/12, 12/10)

TEENS

TeenTober: Monster Prom

Wednesday, Oct. 30 @ 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Dance, snack and do the monster mash at our very own Monster Prom! Decorate pumpkins, take home monster-themed crafts and feel free to show off your favorite costumes.

ADULTS

Mindful Mondays

Select Mondays @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (9/16, 10/21, 11/18, 12/16)

Drop in for a little fun and relaxation as we color together!

ALL AGES

International Games Week

Wednesday, Nov. 13

@ 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Play for fun or to win as we celebrate International Games Week! We’ll have several special games to try, including mini bowling, giant Bananagrams and Uno.

Gobble Games

Friday, Nov. 22 @ 3:30-5:30 p.m.

This turkey-themed game day will include stations featuring bingo cards, bean bag toss, bowling, Pin the Tail on the Turkey, puzzles and an opportunity for selfies!

Reindeer Games

Tuesday, Dec. 17 @ 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Take part in our reindeer games as we celebrate winter together!

LITTLE CREEK BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES

Babygarten

Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 11/5)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Thursdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(Will not be held 10/31, 11/28)

Messy Monday

Monday, Sept. 16 @ 3:30-5:00 p.m.

Come get messy with us! All the messiest art projects in one place with no clean-up required after! You bring the creativity—we’ll bring the wet wipes.

(Ages 0-5)

Halloween Party Storytime

Thursday, Oct. 31

@ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Happy Halloween! Wear your costume and read spooky books with us. Candy will be provided.

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Select Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. (9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19)

Lego Club

Select Tuesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. (9/10, 10/8, 11/12, 12/10) Hang out and create a bold Lego masterpiece.

TWEENS & TEENS

Horror Creation Workshop

Friday, Sept. 13 @ 3:30-5 p.m.

Draw, write or construct your own horror creation to celebrate Friday the 13th!

Air Dry Clay Magnets

Wednesday, Sept. 25 @ 3:30-5 p.m.

Looking to add some flair to the kitchen fridge? Come make magnets with us!

TeenTober: Super Smash Bros. Tournament

Monday, Oct. 7 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

Do you have what it takes to be the ultimate Super Smash Bros. champion? Come prove it!

TeenTober:

Sensory Friendly Hangout

Wednesday, Oct. 16 @ 3:30-5 p.m.

The lights are dimmed and the lo-fi is on! Bring your friends and spend some quality time at the library.

TeenTober:

Mario Kart Marathon

Monday, Oct. 21 @ 4-5:30 p.m. How many tracks can we complete in 90 minutes? Let’s find out!

TeenTober:

Miniature Art Galleries

Wednesday, Oct. 30 @ 3:30-5 p.m.

Construct the smallest gallery ever by filling it with tiny replicas of your favorite art or originals of your own!

ADULTS

Silence is Golden Book Club

Second Wednesdays @ 4-5 p.m.

(9/11, 10/9, 11/13, 12/11)

Are you interested in reading, but don’t want to read alone? Cultivate a quiet community whilst reading a book of your choice. Get cozy and create camaraderie! Discussion and reading are not mandatory, just keep it quiet.

English Conversation Corner

Third Thursdays @ 1-2 p.m. (9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19)

If you’d like to practice speaking English, this is the place to be! This is a warm, welcoming, nonjudgmental space for non-native speakers to engage in English conversations.

Mermaid City Book Club

Fourth Fridays @ 4:30-5:30 (9/27, 10/25, 11/22, 12/27) Join this book club to discuss our book of the month! Call the branch for the monthly pick.

B.Y.O.C. (Bring Your Own Craft)

Thursday, Nov. 14 @ 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Working on weaving, knitting, origami, needle felting or any other portable project? Bring it to the library to craft amongst other creatives!

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Winter Treats (Cookies) Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Wednesday, Nov. 27 @ 4:30 p.m.

Learn how to make delicious cookies and customize to your liking. Make some for a friend (or yourself) to enjoy.

ALL AGES

Card Sharks and Puzzle Masters

Wednesday, Nov. 13 @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Looking for a place to play crazy eights or piece together a puzzle? We’ve got you! Bring your own cards or puzzles (or use ours) and challenge your peers.

Holiday Card Making

Tuesday, Dec. 17 @ noon-5:30 p.m. Nothing says “Happy Holidays” quite like a handmade card. Our holiday gift to you? We’ll clean up all the spilled glitter, so you don’t have to!

FAMILIES

Bingo!

Thursday, Nov. 7 @ 4-5 p.m. Is luck on your side today? Bring the family and find out!

Pine Cone Bird Feeders

Thursday, Dec. 12 @ 4-5 p.m. Stop by anytime during this program to make a feeder for our feathered friends!

MARY D. PRETLOW ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES & TODDLERS

Babygarten

Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

(Will not be held 11/5, 11/26, 11/28, 12/24, 12/26)

Toddler Time

Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

(Will not be held 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/27, 12/25)

1-2-3 Play With Me

Wednesdays in Oct. @ 10:30-11:30 Register at norfolk.libcal.com

(Will not be held 10/23, 12/25)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

(Will not be held 10/25, 11/29, 12/20, 12/27)

Sunset KinderSTEM

Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

(Will not be held 11/28, 12/26)

PRESCHOOL

&

ELEMENTARY AGE

Storytimes

Select Tuesdays @ 2-3 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Join us for themed stories and make a craft!

(Ages 4-9)

Sept. 10-Bird

Oct. 8-If You’re Spooky

Nov. 12-Cozy

Dec. 10-Winter Wonderland

Storytimes at Sunset

Select Tuesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Enjoy stories, rhymes and crafts in the evening!

(Ages 4-9)

Sept. 24-Dragons

Oct. 22-Dress-Up (costumes encouraged)

Nov. 26-Turkey

Monster Mash Storytime

Friday, Oct. 25 @ 10:30 a.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Storytime with a spooky twist! Costumes encouraged. (Ages 4-9)

Ho! Ho! Ho! Storytime

Friday, Dec. 20 @ 10:30 a.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Storytime with a holiday twist!

(Ages 4-9)

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Select Tuesdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. (9/17, 10/15, 11/19, 12/17)

ELEMENTARY AGE & TWEENS

Homeschool Hangout Book Club

Thursdays @ 1:30-3:30 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/28, 12/26)

Come hang out at the library with friends. Do fun crafts and activities, read a book together and more! (Ages 6-12)

Tales to Tails

Select Saturdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (9/28, 10/26, 11/30)

Practice your reading skills by sharing stories with book-loving therapy dogs! Sponsored by the Friends of the Norfolk Public Library. (Ages 6-12)

TWEENS

Anime Club Jr. Wednesdays @ 5-6 p.m.

(Will not be held 10/23, 11/27, 12/25)

Join other young anime and manga fans as we do activities tied to fan-favorite anime and manga titles!

TWEENS & TEENS

Super Mario Saturday Saturday, Nov. 9 @ 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Celebrate International Games Week with Super Mario! Play games, make crafts and meet new friends.

TEENS

Teen Lab

Thursdays @ 4-5:30 p.m.

(Will not be held 10/31, 11/28, 12/26)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Come hang out and build STEAM kits or create projects from scratch, exclusively in the Maker Studio!

TeenTober: Takeover

Saturday, Oct. 12 @ 1-3 p.m.

Teens, let’s take over the children’s floor! Play games, craft, build and sing karaoke at this party just for teens.

TeenTober: Financial Literacy

Saturday, Oct. 19 @ 1-3 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Join financial literary coach Joe Brooks of Let’s Get Started Now for an interactive course that explains how to build credit, set a budget and start a savings account.

MARY D. PRETLOW ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY

ADULTS

Pretlow Paints

Select Tuesdays @ 6-7:30 p.m. (9/3, 10/15, 11/19, 12/17)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Get creative with our new monthly painting series. Participants will create a new piece of art. Supplies will be provided.

Common Threads

Fridays @ 11 a.m.-noon

(Will not be held 11/29)

Socialize with other knitters while working on your latest project. This weekly meetup is for intermediate and advanced knitters looking for a space to work on their projects and meet other creatives.

Law Library @ Pretlow

Select Mondays @ 6-7 p.m. (9/9, 10/7, 11/4, 12/9)

Tunisian Tuesdays

Select Tuesdays @ 6-7:30 p.m.

(9/10, 9/24, 10/8, 10/22, 11/12, 11/26, 12/10, 12/17)

A crochet-along for intermediate and advanced crocheters to create a Tunisian crochet stitch sampler blanket. Twice a month, event goers will learn how to create a new square and complete their blanket on the last meeting day!

Bingo With Bridget

Second Thursdays @ 11 a.m.-noon (9/12, 10/10, 11/14, 12/12)

Come together and socialize during this hour-long bingo program. Small prizes are given to the winners!

Tech Help

Select Fridays @ 11 a.m.-noon (9/13, 9/27, 10/11, 10/25, 11/8, 11/22, 12/13, 12/27)

Drop in for one-on-one assistance with your general tech questions! Please bring your own device.

Crafternoon

Select Saturdays @ 2-3 p.m. (9/14, 10/12, 11/9, 12/14)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Get creative and create a seasonal craft using a variety of artistic techniques. Supplies will be provided.

K-Pop Dance Workshop

Tuesday, Sept. 17 @ 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Want to dance like your favorite K-pop stars? Join Joel Casanova of BeatHunter Dance and learn some basic K-Pop dance moves.

Bank On at Pretlow

Third Saturdays @ 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (9/21, 10/19, 11/16, 12/21)

Register at www.bankonhr.org

Bank On Hampton Roads is a free financial literacy and employment program! This five-month program will give you the skills to gain your financial independence.

Book Buzz

Select Saturdays @ 2-3 p.m.

(9/21, 10/19, 11/16, 12/14)

Give out reading recommendations and your opinions on all things literary without having to worry about doing your “homework.” No assigned readings or specific questions; light refreshments will be provided.

Talks @ Pretlow

Select dates @ 6-7:30 p.m. (9/23, 10/8, 11/12)

Monthly event featuring local speakers covering different issues. No registration required, light refreshments provided.

Sept. 23-Hispanic Heritage Month

Oct. 8-Ghost Hunters

Nov. 12-Native American Heritage Month

Free Gun Safety Locks

Saturday, Oct. 5

@ 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Please do not bring firearms into the library.

Receive a free gun safety lock from the Norfolk Police Department.

Homemade for the Holidays

Select dates @ 6-7:30 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Looking for gift ideas? Each night this week, we will offer a workshop to make a fun gift for your friends and loved ones. Supplies provided and registration required.

Dec. 3-DIY Winter Treats (Cookies) Dec. 4-DIY Body Scrub Mix

Dec. 5-Candle Making

Merry Market

Saturday, Dec. 7 @ 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Celebrate the season with local artists, crafting for adults and kids, and a visit from Santa!

ALL AGES

ESL Casual Conversations

First Wednesdays @ 6:30-7:30 p.m. (9/4, 10/2, 11/6, 12/4)

Improve your English with casual conversation and games! All ages and experience levels welcome.

Movie Matinee

Select Saturdays @ 1-3:30 p.m. 9/7-Kung Fu Panda (2008, PG)

10/5-Monsters, Inc. (2001, G) 11/2-Moana (2016, PG)

12/7-The Santa Clause (1994, PG)

AuthorPalooza

Saturday, Sept. 14

@ 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Celebrate our local literary scene with three Virginia authors. Listen to their work, ask questions and get your book signed!

MARY D. PRETLOW ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY

College and Cookies

Tuesday, Oct. 1 @ 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Thinking about college? Join Meghan Moorehouse of Endeavor Advising to learn about the application process and hear tips about having the best college application experience.

FAMILIES

Hanukkah Storytime

Check online calendar for date and time

Our friends from Ohef Sholom Temple will share their Hanukkah tradition through stories, songs, crafts and a game of dreidel!

Trunk or Treat

Saturday, Oct. 26 @ 2-4 p.m.

Put on your costumes and join us for games, activities and treats!

Caregivers & Coffee

Select Saturdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. (10/12, 11/9, 12/14) Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Join other parents, guardians and caregivers and hear from children’s development professionals. Ask questions, mingle with other parents and learn from experts while librarians entertain your children with stories and play. Refreshments available while supplies last.

MARY D. PRETLOW ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY

RANDI MARSTON PETERSON MAKER STUDIO

Memory Makers

Select Thursdays @ 11 a.m.-noon

(9/5, 10/3, 11/7, 12/5) Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Learn how to scrapbook and preserve your memories. Initially, we’ll focus on traditional paper scrapbooking methods, then we’ll incorporate digital platforms and use the Cricut to personalize your pages.

(13+ or 8+ with supervision)

The Enchanted Readers Society

Select Wednesdays @ 6-7 p.m.

(9/11, 9/25, 10/2, 10/30, 11/13, 12/11) Register at norfolk.libcal.com

A young adult fantasy and science fiction reader’s book club is finally here! Enjoy the latest fantasy and sci-fi novels with discussion and refreshments. We will discuss Powerless by Lauren Roberts on 9/11. (13+)

Maker Mornings 101

Select Thursdays and Saturdays @ 11 a.m.-noon Register at norfolk.libcal.com

9/12 & 9/14-Podcasting 101. Learn how to operate the sound booth, mics and applications to start your own podcast.

10/17 & 10/19-3D Printing 101. Print anything from scratch!

11/7 & 11/9-Cricutting 101. Design, cut and apply your own labels, stickers and vinyl.

12/12 & 12/14-Laser Cutting 101. Design and cut or engrave your creations with our new Glowforge. (13+ or 8+ with supervision)

Sound Studio Saturdays

Select Saturdays @ 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

(9/28, 10/26, 11/30, 12/28) Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Have you ever wanted to record yourself singing, talking, podcasting or playing your instrument? During November and December, we will partner with StoryCorps to bring you The Great Thanksgiving Listen (which is also a Norfolk Public Schools U.S. History assignment interview a senior), in which the younger members of the family interview an elder member. Visit https://storycorps.org/discover/ for more info.

(13+ or 8+ with supervision)

Family STEAM Night

Select Wednesdays @ 6-7 p.m. (9/18, 10/16, 11/20, 12/18) Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Play around with Circuits, Coding, Chemistry, Arch Builds and Trivia.

Amaz-ZINE

Tuesday, Sept. 24 @ 6-7:30 p.m.

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

What’s a Zine? How do you create one? Learn from our resident artist/ expert and we will display your Amaz-ZINE masterpiece in the library! (13+)

Festive Fall Door Signs

Saturday, Sept. 28 @ 2 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Learn about laser cutting and engraving and then assemble your own fall-themed round wooden door sign, made from materials created within the RMP Maker Studio. All materials will be provided. Each participant must register individually. Space is limited. (13+)

Sew Like Randi Day

Tuesday, Oct. 15 @ 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Come celebrate our Maker Studio benefactor’s birthday with Sew Like Randi (Marston Peterson) Day! We will be creating fabric pumpkins to enjoy for the fall holidays. Supplies included!

(13+ or 8+ with supervision)

Pretlow Halloween T-Shirts

Monday, Oct. 21-Thursday, Oct. 31 @ noon-5 p.m.

BYO T-Shirt and we will add our “screaming” fun Halloween design! Don’t forget to wear your new Tee to Trunk or Treat on October 26!

(13+ or 8+ with supervision)

Sew-4-Service Month

November 1-25 @ noon-5 p.m.

(Will not be held Saturdays) Sew a pet bed to donate to a local shelter! This project will not only teach you basic sewing skills but helps animals in need and counts towards service hours for Norfolk Public School Students. If you cannot finish your project in one afternoon, there is no need to worry! Feel free to work over a few days on your service project. We are accepting donations of scrap fabric, dog/cat food, toys and anything else that pets may need to support our local shelters.

(13+ or 8+ with supervision)

MARY D. PRETLOW ANCHOR BRANCH LIBRARY PARK PLACE BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES

Babygarten

Mondays @ 11 a.m.-noon

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Tuesdays @ 11 a.m.-noon

(Will not be held 11/5, 12/24)

Halloween Storytime

Thursday, Oct. 31 @ 11 a.m.-noon

Happy Halloween! Celebrate the occasion with candy bags all day and a themed Storytime. Feel free to come dressed in costume.

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Thursdays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

(Will not be held 10/31, 11/28)

Bear’s First Christmas Storytime

Tuesday, Dec. 17 @ 11 a.m.

Join us for a heartwarming story, just in time for the holidays. Whether it’s your first or 50th Christmas, this story will get you ready to celebrate.

TWEENS & TEENS

Teen Mental Health Check-In

Wednesday, Sept. 18 @ 4-5 p.m.

Learn about mental health with hygiene tips and activities surrounding mindfulness.

TeenTober: Haunting Animation Workshop

Wednesday, Oct. 2 @ 4-5 p.m.

Check out our stop-motion kit and create your own video short! (Ages 9-17)

TeenTober: Wild Mario Kart Tournament

Wednesday, Oct. 9 @ 4-5 p.m.

Join us for this exciting, afterschool Mario Kart tournament!

TeenTober:

Spooky Cake Decorating

Wednesday, Oct. 16 @ 4-5 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants

Get into the Halloween spirit by joining us for spooky cake decorating!

TeenTober:

Ghostly Photo Shoot

Thursday, Oct. 31 @ 4-5 p.m.

Who says you’re too old to trickor-treat? Celebrate Halloween with costumes and candy by documenting your costume in a Halloween photo shoot with your friends and family!

ALL AGES

International Games Week

Monday, Nov. 11-Friday, Nov. 15 @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Come participate in International Games Week! We will be offering a Norfolkopoly table for patrons to enjoy a game together and celebrate the city we live in!

Homemade for the Holidays: Loom Knitting

Thursday, Dec. 5 @ 4 p.m.

Create homemade loom for a loved one (or yourself), that will be sure to please!

FAMILIES

Family Fun Time

Select Fridays @ 4:30-5:30 p.m. (9/20, 10/18, & 11/15)

Join us for special family activities!

Family Gingerbread Decorating Friday, Dec. 13 @ 4-5 p.m.

Come decorate holiday-themed gingerbread houses!

RICHARD A. TUCKER MEMORIAL LIBRARY

BABIES & TODDLERS

Babygarten

Tuesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. (9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Tuesdays @ 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29)

Travel Time Storytime with Ms. Carolyn

Select Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 (9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/30)

Travel without leaving the library! These Storytimes start with a bus, train or boat.

1-2-3 Play with Me

Select Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m. (11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 11/27)

ELEMENTARY AGE

Fall Sensory Bottles

Thursday, Sept. 12 @ noon-1 p.m. Make recycled sensory bottles filled with fall-themed items.

Witchy Wonders Storytime

Tuesday, Oct. 29 @ 10:30 a.m. Magic is all around us, look for it during our special Storytime!

It’s Magnetic!

Thursday, Nov. 21 @ 2:30-3:30 p.m. Do you know what makes something magnetized? Play with our magnetic tools to find out!

‘Is Lasagna Thanksgiving Food’ Storytime

Tuesday, Nov. 26 @ 10:30 a.m. What foods can you really have for Thanksgiving? Gather for this special Storytime and see for yourself.

Holiday Breakdown Storytime

Wednesday, Dec. 11 @ 10:30 a.m. There are many different holidays at this time of year, share your celebrations during this Storytime of a few holidays!

TWEENS & TEENS

After School Connect

Wednesdays @ 3:30-4:30 p.m. Get together with friends or make new ones, as we pause each week to talk about wellness and do a fun activity! In partnership with GEAR Recovery.

(Ages 5-17)

QuaranTEEN Zone Presents: Sticker Decor

Wednesday, Sept. 25 @ 4-5 p.m. Decorate your locker, notebook or room with DIY stickers!

QuaranTEEN Zone Presents: TeenTober Halloween DIY Wednesday, Oct. 30 @ 4-5 p.m. Make costume pieces and Halloween decorations using beads, cardboard and paints in this DIY workshop.

Gaming Freeplay

Thursday, Nov. 7 @ 3:30-5:30 p.m. Get your game on, featuring Xbox One and Nintendo Switch!

QuaranTEEN Zone Presents: Pearler Bead Keychains

Wednesday, Nov. 27 @ 4-5 p.m. Melt your own keychains or coasters using Perler beads!

QuaranTEEN Zone Presents: Nebula Jars

Wednesday, Dec. 18 @ 4-5 p.m. Make tiny capsules of space as a gift for your friends or as a cool accessory for yourself.

TEENS

TeenTober:

National Smarties Day

Wednesday, Oct. 2 @ 4-5 p.m.

Enjoy trivia games and more as we test our “smarties” to see who can get the most correct answers and win some candy!

TeenTober:

Mystery Incorporated

Friday, Oct. 18 @ 3-5 p.m.

Encounter a spooky mystery with the Scooby Gang. Follow the clues, solve a mystery, watch Scooby-Doo (2002, PG) and of course, enjoy some Scooby Snacks!

ADULTS

Tea Enthusiasts’ Meetup

Saturday, Sept. 14 @ noon-2 p.m.

Contact branch to register. Limited space available. Do you appreciate thoughtful conversation over tea? So do we! Join us for our inaugural Tea Enthusiasts’ Meetup to experience a tea tasting with Lori Whitmore of Savory Blends Tea Co.

Sip

and Reminisce

Select Saturdays @ 1-3 p.m. (9/28, 10/26, 11/30, 12/28)

Calling all locals! Join us for a moment to sit and reflect on your community and its accomplishments. Light refreshments will be served.

Anime Fright Nights

Select Wednesdays @ 5:45-7:45 p.m. (10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/30)

Watch spooky anime and have savory Japanese snacks!

RICHARD A. TUCKER MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Special Effects Makeup Course:

Halloween Edition

Thursday, Oct. 17 @ 3-4:30 p.m.

Contact Branch to Register Limited to 20 participants

Learn how to do Halloween makeup by GOREgeous Makeup by Liv. Supplies provided!

Fall Wreath Workshop

Thursday, Nov. 14 @ 6-7:30 p.m.

Contact Branch to Register Limited to 15 participants

Join us for a fall-themed magnolia wreath workshop, where you’ll craft a festive crepe paper wreath to liven up your decor this season.

Healthy Eating for the Holidays

Saturday, Nov. 16 @ noon-2:30 p.m.

Contact Branch to Register Limited to 30 participants

Help promote healthy eating for the holidays with Holistic Theraputic Nutrition Practitioner Francine Douglas, and a culinary chef who will assist in selecting healthy food choices to maintain a daily regime.

Ink Floating Art Afternoon

Wednesday, Nov. 20 @ 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Contact Branch to Register Limited to 15 participants

Spend an afternoon with us creating simple, beautiful, one-of-a-kind art!

Book Paper Trees

Tuesday, Dec. 3 @ 5-6 p.m.

Contact Branch to Register Limited to 15 participants

In need of some new, fun holiday decor? Join us as we turn our old books into festive trees!

Not Today, Santa

Tuesday, Dec. 10 @ 3-4:30 p.m.

Parents, drop your kids off at our Children’s Library for crafts and relax with a warm beverage, calming atmosphere and a little pampering as we take the day off and tell Santa he can wait a while.

Metal Stamping Bracelet Workshop

Thursday, Dec. 12 @ 6-7:30 p.m.

Contact Branch to Register Limited to 15 participants

Design a metal stamped aluminum bracelet that you can wear or gift this holiday season!

Adult Holiday Diamond

Painting Workshop

Wednesday, Dec. 18 @ 4-6 p.m.

Contact Branch to Register Limited to 20 participants

This paint by number holiday themed diamond workshop is a can’t-miss!

ALL AGES

Lego Club

Wednesdays @ 4-6 p.m.

(Will not be held 10/23, 12/25)

Show off your building skills every week with themed Lego building challenges!

Art Club for Everyone

Select Thursdays @ 4-5:30 p.m. (9/5, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26)

Create whatever you’d like with paint brushes, pencils, art paper, oil pastels and paint provided by the branch!

Local Author Series

Select Saturdays @ 1:30-3 p.m.

(9/7, 10/5, 11/2)

Meet and greet local authors and enjoy passages from their books.

Moon Festival

Tuesday, Sept. 17 @ 4-6 p.m.

This occasion celebrates the upcoming Autumn Equinox and is marked by eating mooncakes and admiring the moon, a symbol of unity.

Southside Book Sale

Saturday, Sept. 21 @ 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Our first annual Book sale! Support The Friends of NPL by purchasing books, CDs and movies!

Oktoberfest

Friday, Sept. 27 @ 3:30-4:30

You don’t need to go to Germany to enjoy Oktoberfest. Celebrate at the library with (root) beer and pretzels.

Halloween Paint by Numbers

Thursday, Oct. 31 @ 2-3:30 p.m.

Choose from different canvases with Halloween themes and get into the spooky spirit during this ghoulish paint-by-numbers event!

Dia De Los Muertos Paper Flower Workshop

Friday, Nov. 1 @ 2-4 p.m.

Celebrate Day of the Dead by creating giant paper flowers with instructor Brenda Contreras. Refreshments will be provided.

Light the Night

Wednesday, Nov. 6 @ 6-7 p.m.

Enjoy a night in the Nature Explorium as we are entertained by an LED show! Become mesmerized by these lights and sparkles.

Where In the World Are We?

Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 5-6 p.m.

Brush up on your geography while we play this online game and try to figure out where in the world we are!

Game Show Roulette

Wednesday, Nov. 13 @ 4-5 p.m.

Spin the wheel and play rounds of popular games shows for prizes!

www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org for a complete listing of events.

RICHARD A. TUCKER MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Kwanzaa-The Season is Now Saturday, Dec. 28 @ 1-3 p.m.

Learn about the Seven Days of Kwanzaa with author and photographer Diana Chappell.

FAMILIES

Dr. Seuss Book Club

Select Fridays @ 2:30-4:30 p.m. (9/13, 10/11, 11/8, 12/13)

Read Seussical childhood classics, then watch the film adaptation. 9/13-The Lorax (2012, PG) 10/11-The Cat in the Hat (2003, PG) 11/8-Horton Hears a Who! (2008, G) 12/13-How The Grinch Stole Christmas (1966, NR)

Melt & Pour Soap Class

Thursday, Oct. 10 @ 2-3:30 p.m.

Treat yourself to a step-by-step class and make your own soap bars!

Pumpkin Patch

Tuesday, Oct. 15 @ 2-6 p.m.

The Explorium turns into a tiny pumpkin patch! Pick up your pumpkin and make a themed craft!

Trick or Treat-The Mad Scientists Laboratory

Thursday, Oct. 31 @ 4-7 p.m.

Assist the Mad Scientist with his latest creation for a Halloween trickor-treat.

Native American Crafts and Storytime

Tuesday, Nov. 19 @ 4-6 p.m.

Join us for Native American Heritage Month with a Storytime and crafts! We will hear the Native American Cinderella story, The Rough Face GirI, create an ice cream teepee and make a beaded and feathered necklace to wear.

Great Explorium Illumination and Sing-along

Wednesday, Dec. 4 @ 6-7 p.m.

Bring your holiday cheer as we light up the Nature Explorium with a musical twist! Hot chocolate for carolers, while it lasts.

I Know Him! Santa Visits Richard A. Tucker

Thursday, Dec 19 @ 10:30 a.m.noon and 2:30-4 p.m.

Meet Santa at the library and tell him about your wishes for this holiday season!

VAN WYCK BRANCH LIBRARY

BABIES & TODDLERS

Babygarten

Tuesdays @ 10:30 a.m.-noon

(Will not be held 11/5, 11/26, 12/24)

Toddler Time

Select Fridays @ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(9/6, 9/20, 10/4, 10/18, 11/1, 11/15, 12/6, 12/20)

PRESCHOOL

KinderSTEM

Thursdays @ 10:30 a.m.-noon

(Will not be held 10/24, 10/31, 11/21, 11/28)

Pumpkin Patch Storytime

Thursday, Oct. 31

@ 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Come to a spooktacular Storytime featuring a read-aloud, games, crafts and snacks!

Thanksgiving Storytime

Thursday, Nov. 21

@ 10:30 a.m.-noon

Celebrate friends, family and food at a Thanksgiving-themed Storytime with books, crafts and games!

Gingerbread Mouse Storytime

Thursday, Dec. 19

@ 10:30 a.m.-noon

Get in the Christmas spirit with a themed Storytime, Christmas cookies and an ornament craft.

ELEMENTARY AGE

Build Bash

Wednesdays @ 4-5 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/27, 12/25)

Code Club

Wednesdays @ 4-5 p.m.

(Will not be held 11/27, 12/25)

Check out our Coding Club at Build Bash and learn the basics of coding with HTML, Scratch, Python and more!

Haunted House

Thursday, Oct. 24 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

Watch our KidZone transform into a spooky Haunted House for Halloween! Stop by for frights, laughs and lots of fun!

Rock Paper Scissors Tournament

Thursday, Nov. 14 @ 4-5 p.m.

Compete in a Rock Paper Scissors Tournament to win a trophy and prizes! For the rest of the family, enjoy a variety of board games.

TWEENS

Pokémon Club

Select Thursdays @ 4-5:30 p.m. (9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19)

Gotta catch ‘em all! Pokémon Club is THE place to trade cards, play the game and geek out with fellow Pokémon lovers.

TWEENS & TEENS

K-Pop Party!

Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 2:30-4 p.m.

Listen to your favorite songs, watch music videos, make a craft and eat snacks with fellow K-pop lovers!

TEENS

Offline Gaming

Select Tuesdays @ 2-3 p.m. (9/3, 9/17, 10/1, 10/15, 11/19, 12/3, 12/17)

Take a break from the screen and join us for some board and card game fun! Snacks included.

TeenTober

Select Thursdays @ 2-3 p.m. (10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31)

You won’t want to miss these awesome activities! Snacks included. 10/3-Cupcake Decorating 10/10-Pumpkin Painting 10/17-Halloween Trivia 10/24-Teen Haunted House 10/31-The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993, PG)

Teen Spoons Tournament

Thursday, Nov. 7 @ 2-3 p.m.

Celebrate International Games

Week with a Spoons card game tournament! Winner takes home the trophy and prize.

ADULTS

Mindful Mondays

Mondays @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

(Will not be held 9/2, 11/11)

This drop-in program is an opportunity for adults to start their week with a clear mind! Use premium art supplies and coloring sheets to make a beautiful work of art.

VAN WYCK BRANCH LIBRARY

Pop-up Jukebox

Select Mondays @ 4-6 p.m.

(9/9, 10/7, 11/4, 12/2)

Van Wyck becomes Van Wax! Take our turntable for a spin and get reacquainted with some old friends. Yarn Club

Wednesdays @ 10:30 a.m.-noon

(Will not be held 11/27, 12/25)

Learn a new hobby or perfect an old skill as we knit and crochet! Yarn and needles provided, while supplies last.

Homemade for the Holidays: Candle Making

Wednesday, Nov. 20 @ 2 p.m.

Gift a handmade candle with your favorite, custom scent!

Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Soap Making

Wednesday, Dec. 11 @ 2 p.m.

Create a handmade jar of body scrub with a custom scent for a loved one (or yourself) to enjoy!

FAMILIES

Minute to Win It Holiday Party! Thursday, Dec. 12 @ 4-5:30 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season with friends, family and community! Compete in wacky games and enjoy holiday-themed crafts and treats.

ALL AGES

Yarn Swap

Monday, Sept. 9-Friday, Sept. 13 @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Bring in your old yarn for a community swap! Yarn will be located in the adult reading room; take one and leave one!

Back to School Donuts! Thursday, Sept. 5 @ 2-4 p.m.

Stop by for an afterschool pick-meup! Kids can grab a donut from the KidZone and stay for some games and fun.

Holiday Gift Wrap Station

Monday, Dec. 2-Wednesday, Dec. 25 @ 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

(Will not be held 12/7, 12/8, 12/14, 12/15, 12/21, 12/22)

Use our Hanukkah and Christmas gift wrapping supplies including ribbon, gift wrap, bags, bows and gift tags, while supplies last.

ADULT SERVICES DEPARTMENT SPONSORED PROGRAMS

Autumn Jewelry Workshops

Select Thursdays @ 4-5 p.m. (9/12, 10/3, 11/7)

Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Limited to 15 participants

Alodeuri Jewelry is back with an autumn-themed workshop series! Create a pair of earrings in September, bracelets in October and a necklace in November.

Lafayette Branch

Tea Enthusiasts’ Meetup

Saturday, Sept. 14 @ noon-2 p.m.

Contact branch to register. Limited space available. Do you appreciate thoughtful conversation over tea? So do we! Join us for the inaugural Tea Enthusiasts’ Meetup to experience a tea tasting with Lori Whitmore of Savory Blends Tea Co.

Richard A. Tucker Memorial

Facts in a Flash

September 15-October 15

Check out NPL’s social media accounts for weekly facts during Hispanic Heritage Month. Learn more about the people, places and topics being honored!

Murder Mystery at Hunter House Victorian Museum

Saturday, Oct. 12

@ 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Email michaela.francis@norfolk. gov for registration details.

Limited space available. Visit the only Victorian house museum in Norfolk for their free, annual murder mystery event! Immerse yourself in a crime scene as you explore the house and solve a murder at the end of the tour.

Downtown Norfolk

Haunted Tour

Saturday, Oct. 19 @ 7:30 p.m.

Contact sierra.sauls@norfolk.gov or michaela.francis@norfolk.gov for registration details. Limited space available.

Tour haunted Downtown Norfolk after dark and learn about its spooky history with Norfolk Tour Company!

Murder Mystery Author Talk

Wednesday, Oct. 21

@ 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Get into the spooky spirit with this literary take on a murder mystery dinner! Join award-winning novelist and Virginia-based author John Copenhaver as he discusses his latest historical thriller, Hall of Mirrors Feast on heavy hors d’oeuvres and participate in this moderated book talk, complete with door prizes, book purchases and book signings by the author.

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch

Diwali Display

October 29-November 2 Stop by any of the following branches to view a display in celebration of Diwali: Downtown Branch at Slover, Lafayette, Larchmont, Little Creek, Mary D. Pretlow Anchor and Van Wyck. View exclusive displays at Barron F. Black and Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch that feature traditional clothing worn during Diwali festivities. A special thank you to our Library Director, Sonal Rastogi, and the Asian Indians of Hampton Roads for loaning these cultural outfits.

Native American Heritage Month

November 1-30

This Native American History Month, NPL challenges you to learn more about Native Americans with an exciting giveaway! To be eligible to win, you must find a non-book resource available through NPL (online included) that will help you learn something new about Native American culture or people. Then, fill out and submit an entry slip available at any branch’s circulation desk. Giveaway items have been sourced from Wanderingbull.com, a website specializing in authentic Native American craft supplies, decor and more.

Homemade for the Holidays

November 12-December 13 Register at norfolk.libcal.com

Homemade for the Holidays is back! Create homemade holiday gifts for loved ones (or yourself) that will be sure to please!

Candle Making

Wednesday, Nov. 20 @ 2 p.m.

Van Wyck Branch

Thursday, Dec. 5 @ 6 p.m.

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

DIY Body Scrubs

Saturday, Dec. 7 @ 1 p.m.

Downtown Branch at Slover

DIY Soap Making

Wednesday, Dec. 11 @ 2 p.m.

Van Wyck Branch

DIY Winter Treats (Cookies)

Friday, Nov. 15 @ 4 p.m.

Janaf Branch

Saturday, Nov. 16 @ 1 p.m.

Downtown Branch at Slover

Wednesday, Nov. 27 @ 4:30 p.m. Little Creek Branch

Tuesday, Dec. 3 @ 6 p.m.

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch

Friday, Dec. 6 @ 4:30 p.m.

Barron F. Black Branch

Friday, Dec. 13 @ 4 p.m.

Lafayette Branch

DIY Winter Treats (Rice Krispies)

Wednesday, Dec. 4 @ 4:30 p.m.

Blyden Branch

Loom Knitting

Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 4 p.m. Lafayette Branch

Thursday, Dec. 5 @ 4 p.m. Park Place

West African Immersive Experience Wednesday, Nov. 13 @ 6-7:30 p.m. Register at norfolk.libcal.com Experience an immersive West African cultural experience as Sean Gaskell serenades listeners with a West African Kora. Enjoy refreshments from a local West African restaurant and view a beautiful thematic display as you learn about Sean’s background and the history of this instrument.

Richard A. Tucker Memorial

YOUTH SERVICES DEPARTMENT SPONSORED PROGRAMS

Smokey the Bear 80th Birthday/Reading Challenge -Library Card Sign Up Month

September 1-30

Celebrate Smokey Bear’s Birthday and Library Card Sign Up Month by reading about wildfires and the environment to earn digital badges! Visit any Norfolk Public Library branch to sign up for a library card or use your existing card to fill out an entry form for a chance to win a Smokey the Bear plush!

Blue Star Families Week

September 21-29

Welcome, military families, to Norfolk! Visit your local branch to pick up a Norfolk Public Library Welcome Cup filled with goodies, sign up for a library card and pick up a program guide to learn about the great services our library provides.

Fall Poetry Walk

September 23-November 1 Join Norfolk Public Library on a poetic walk along the Elizabeth River Trail amidst the rustling leaves and nature’s changing colors. Located at Lambert’s Point Micro Garden on W. 26th St.

TeenTober Grab Bags

October 1-31

Teens, celebrate TeenTober by stopping by your local branch to pick up grab bag full of goodies. Make sure to check out our teen-centered programs happening at all locations.

Spooky Storytimes

Guaranteed fun and fright at these spooktacular Storytimes.

Creepy Countdown

Blyden-Oct. 3 @ 11 a.m. Janaf-Oct. 16 @ 10:30 a.m.

If You’re Spooky

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch-Oct. 8 @ 2 p.m.

Barron F. Black-Oct. 31 @ 4 p.m.

Pumpkin Patch

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch-Oct. 9 @ 11 a.m.

Larchmont-Oct. 25 @ 10:30 a.m. Van Wyck-Oct. 31 @ 10:30 a.m.

Halloween Party

Barron F. Black-Oct. 21 @ 11 a.m. Little Creek-Oct. 31 @ 10:30 a.m.

Monster Mash

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch-Oct. 25 @ 10:30 a.m.

Candy Corn

Lafayette-Oct. 29 @ 10:30 a.m.

Hocus Pocus

Richard A. Tucker Memorial-Oct. 29 @ 10:30 a.m.

Boo Halloween

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch-Oct. 30 @ 11 a.m.

Jack O’ Lantern Blaze

Downtown Branch at Slover-Oct. 30 @ 10:30 a.m.

Trick or Treat

Park Place-Oct. 31 @ 11 a.m.

Spooky Selfies

October 19-31

Don’t miss your opportunity to take a Halloween-themed selfie at Downtown Branch at Slover, Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch, Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Library and Richard A. Tucker Memorial!

Children’s Festival

Saturday, Oct. 5 @ 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Stop by the Norfolk Public Library booth at Town Point Park and enjoy interactive activities, hands-on fun and pick up freebies.

Turkey Tales Storytimes

Think of what you’re thankful for during these Storytimes.

Gobble Gobble

Park Place-Nov. 4 @ 11 a.m.

Lafayette-Nov. 19 @ 10:30 a.m.

Littlest Pilgrim

Barron F. Black-Nov. 27 @ 11 a.m.

Blyden-Nov. 21 @ 11 a.m.

Over the River

Janaf-Nov. 6 @ 10:30 a.m.

Downtown Branch at Slover-Nov. 20 @ 10:30 a.m.

Turkey Bowl

Van Wyck-Nov. 7 @ 10:30 a.m.

Richard A. Tucker Memorial-Nov. 19 @ 10:30 a.m.

A is for Autumn

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch-Nov. 8 @ 10:30 a.m.

T is for Thanksgiving

Little Creek-Nov. 14 @ 10:30 a.m.

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch-Nov. 20 @ 10:30 a.m.

Larchmont-Nov. 27 @ 10:30 a.m.

Chow Thanksgiving

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch-Nov. 15 @ 10:30 a.m.

Lafayette-Nov. 26 @ 10:30 a.m.

Military Family Month

November 1-30

Mark your calendar for Military Family Month! Join Norfolk Public Library in honoring and celebrating service members and their families. Enter your name to win a military-themed puzzle and games.

National Family Literacy Day

Friday, Nov. 1

Celebrate National Literacy Day!

Visit your local library and pick up a literacy-rich grab bag.

International Games Week

November 7-13

Visit your local library for fun card games, board games, video games and much more all week long.

Holiday Storytimes

Celebrate the magic of the season with our holiday Storytimes.

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Richard A. Tucker Memorial-Dec. 3 @ 10:30 a.m.

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch-Dec. 20 @ 10:30 a.m.

North Pole

Little Creek-Dec. 12 @ 10:30 a.m.

Gingerbread Mouse

Larchmont-Dec. 11 @ 10:30 a.m.

Van Wyck-Dec. 19 @ 10:30 a.m.

North Pole

Downtown Branch at Slover-Dec. 18 @ 10:30 a.m.

Up on the Rooftop

Lafayette-Dec. 17 @ 10:30 a.m.

Bear’s First Christmas

Park Place-Dec. 17 @ 11 a.m.

The Little Red Elf

Janaf-Dec. 18 @ 10:30 a.m.

O’ Christmas Tree

Little Creek-Dec. 19 @ 10:30 a.m.

Eight Winter Nights

Blyden-Dec. 19 @ 11 a.m.

12 Sleighs of Christmas

Barron F. Black-Dec. 20 @ 11 a.m.

Jingle Bells

Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch-Dec. 20 @ 11 a.m.

Holiday Selfies

December 14-21

Get into the holiday spirit! Take your holiday card photo or create a family memory with our festive selfie stations at Downtown Branch at Slover, Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch, Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Library and Richard A. Tucker Memorial!

TECHNOLOGY CLASSES

TECHNOLOGY CLASSES

IN-PERSON

All classes @ 10-11 a.m.

Contact branch to register

Introduction to Computers

Learn to use a mouse, keyboard and understand basic computer terminology.

Tuesday, Sept. 3-Janaf Branch

Introduction to Computers II

Develop basic computer skills.

Thursday, Sept. 5-Janaf Branch

Introduction to the Internet

Learn basic skills required to surf the internet.

Tuesday, Sept. 10-Janaf Branch

Introduction to Email

Obtain an email account with Gmail and learn the basic features.

Thursday, Sept. 12-Janaf Branch

Email II

Learn how to send and receive emails and understand many other features.

Tuesday, Sept. 17-Janaf Branch

Email III

Work with attachments.

Thursday, Sept. 19-Janaf Branch

Introduction to Word

Learn the basic features required to generate a document.

Tuesday, Sept. 24-Janaf Branch

Word II

Create a flyer in class.

Thursday, Sept. 26-Janaf Branch

Introduction to Word

Learn the basic features required to generate a document.

Tuesday, Dec. 3-Richard A. Tucker Memorial

Word II

Create a flyer in class.

Thursday, Dec. 5-Richard A. Tucker Memorial

Introduction to Excel

Learn basic features required to create spreadsheets in Excel.

Tuesday, Dec. 10-Richard A. Tucker Memorial

Excel II

Create a spreadsheet in class.

Thursday, Dec. 12-Richard A. Tucker Memorial

Basic Excel Formulas

Learn how to use some basic formulas in Excel.

Tuesday, Dec. 17-Richard A. Tucker Memorial

ONLINE

All classes @ 10-11:00 a.m. Register on NPL Website

Introduction to Access

Tuesday, Oct. 8

Learn basic features to work with a database.

Access II

Wednesday, Oct. 9

Use features to manipulate a database.

PivotTables

Thursday, Oct. 10

Learn basic features required to create PivotTables in Excel.

PivotTables II

Tuesday, Oct. 15

Learn more features required to create PivotTables in Excel.

Introduction to Excel

Wednesday, Oct. 16

Learn basic features required to create spreadsheets in Excel.

Excel II

Thursday, Oct. 17

Create a spreadsheet in class using PivotTables.

Basic Excel Formulas

Tuesday, Oct. 22

Use basic formulas in Excel.

Basic Excel Formulas II

Wednesday, Oct. 23

Use more formulas in Excel.

Conditional Formatting

Thursday, Oct. 24

Create settings to see certain trends and patterns in data.

Conditional Formatting II

Tuesday, Oct. 29

Manipulate data to display certain trends.

Excel 3D Mapping

Wednesday, Oct. 30

Learn basic features required to create 3D maps.

Introduction to Power Query

Wednesday, Nov. 6

Learn basic features required to manipulate data in Power Query.

Power Query II

Thursday, Nov. 7

Use formulas to adjust data in Power Query.

Introduction to Power BI

Tuesday, Nov. 12

Learn basic features required to use Power BI.

Power BI II

Wednesday, Nov. 13

Create an interactive dash.

Excel Dashboard

Thursday, Nov. 14

Learn basic features required to create a Dashboard in Excel.

Excel Dashboard II

Tuesday, Nov. 19

Learn intermediate skills required to create Dashboards in Excel.

Fillable Forms

Wednesday, Nov. 20

Use features in Excel to create forms.

Fillable Forms II

Thursday, Nov. 21

Use Excel to create logos and other features used on forms.