20 minute read
Adults
We Demand: Women’s Suffrage in Virginia: Montclair
Through September 10 Explore the history that led to the ratification of the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote. Walk through a traveling exhibition from the Library of Virginia with support from the Task Force to Commemorate the Centennial Anniversary of Women’s Right to Vote.
Vote–Digital Resources on Jobs: Potomac
September 1–30 Come to Potomac Library and let us know what your favorite digital career resources are. Enter for a chance to win a prize.
Library Window: Haymarket Gainesville
September1–November 30 We want to hear from you! Each month, we’re posting a different question on our Library Window and we want you to respond. At the end of the month, all entries will be placed in a drawing for a prize. So, be sure to check the Library Window for each month’s question!
Resume Workshop
Adults Chinn Park: Thursday, September 1 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Montclair: Friday, September 16 12:00–4:00 p.m. Potomac: Wednesday, October 12 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Bull Run: Wednesday, October 19 2:00–4:00 p.m. Receive tips and feedback from a recruiter whose staffing firm has placed thousands of job seekers into flexible roles at companies and nonprofits throughout the DMV area. You will leave with fresh ideas for making your resume both compelling and concise! Reviews limited to 20 minutes in duration. Time allotment subject to change, depending on volume.
AARP–Supercharge Your Job Search: Potomac
Tuesday, October 11, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. A free 90-minute workshop providing job seekers with access to tools and resources to be successful in the digital age.
Effective Resume Writing: Chinn Park
Friday, September 2, 12:00–2:00 p.m. Join us for a two-hour, in-depth, resume workshop. Bring your laptop and learn how to build your basic resume, general tips and tricks, as well as how to tailor your resume. We ask that you provide your own laptops, if possible. Brittany Schwemley of Qualifications on Paper will host this workshop as well as a general Q&A after the presentation. Registration Required.
Third Tuesdays 6:00 p.m.
September 20, October 18, November 15 Come discuss how to develop storylines, create characters that you can insert into the universe, or just to get feedback on your work. This is a hybrid program, so you have the option of either coming in person or virtually. For information on how to join this discussion, call 703-792-4800 or email Sarah Parker at sparker2@pwcgov.org. Registration recommended.
Memoir Writers: Central
Tuesday, September 6, 10:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. This group meets monthly to share their writing and offer encouragement and constructive criticism.
Adult Writers: Central
Saturday, September 10, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Come join other local writers. Group members share their writing pieces and offer encouragement and constructive criticism.
Writers’ Room: Montclair
Second Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m.
September 14, October 12, November 9 Join a monthly forum and share your work with fellow writers. Receive and contribute constructive criticism. Try writing with fun prompts and in new genres and styles.
Writing Fan Fiction: Chinn Park and Virtual
Memoir Writers: Bull Run
First Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.
October 4, November 1 Group meets monthly to share their writing and offer encouragement and constructive criticism. No registration required.
Writer’sCorner
Spa & Home: Virtual
First Sundays, All Day
September 4, October 2, November 6 Bring nature to your daily routines. Each month Kris makes a natural product for face, body, or home using a recipe found in a print or digital PWPL resource. She then shares a picture of the finished product, along with the recipe. Perfect for home or self-care!
Dungeons & Dragons for Adults: Virtual
Group 1: First Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m.
September 6, October 4, November 1 Group 2: Third Thursdays, 6:00 p.m.
September 15, October 20, November 17 Come play D&D with us! Whether you are new to roleplaying games or a veteran looking for a new campaign, we would love for you to join us VIRTUALLY! For more information, contact Matt McCleland at MMcCleland@pwcgov.org. Campaign is repeated. Please register for only one event, Group 1 or Group 2. Registration required. Waitlist available if event is full.
Fostering–Saving Pets One at a Time: Montclair
Tuesday, September 6, 6:30 p.m. Ever wonder what it takes to foster a pet? Join us as we welcome The Humane Society of Northern Virginia for a presentation on how you can enrich your life and help pets in need by fostering a rescue pet.
Job Fair: Chinn Park
Thursday, September 15, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Chinn Park and Potomac Libraries are hosting a Job Fair on Thursday, September 15, 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Chinn Park Library. Participants include Amazon Web Services, Prince William County’s Department of Fire and Rescue, Prince William County Human Resources, Prince William County Police Department, Prince William County Public Schools, Prince William Public Libraries, and Virginia Career Works. Supported by Prince William Chamber of Commerce and ChangeX Community Challenge grant funded by Microsoft.
Montclair Library Fall Garden Club: Montclair
All Ages Third Mondays, 4:30 p.m.
October 17, November 21 Calling gardeners of all ages and skill levels. Join us to see and learn about what’s growing in the library garden. Help maintain native plants and promote pollination. No experience necessary. Registration required.
Repair Café: Bull Run
Saturday, September 17, 10:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Have a small electronic appliance needing repair? Need to hem or repair a garment? Have a bicycle that needs to be serviced? Bring these items to our inaugural Repair Café! Registration and signed liability waiver required to attend this event. Waiver will be available at registration table on the day of the event. Supported by ChangeX Community Challenge grant funded by Microsoft.
Beverages and Dastardly Drinks: Virtual
Third Sundays, all day
September 18, October 16, November 20 Join us as we bring to life drinks inspired by your favorite books, shows, games, and movies! Each month, watch as Heather creates a beverage based on recipes found in PWPL resources.
Writing Contest: Chinn Park
October 1–31 Submit poetry or short stories for the chance to win prizes! There will be prizes in each category! Competition Rules: · Entries will be judged on creativity, originality, technique, and emotional impact. · Written works may be submitted by email to librarycommunications@pwcgov.org or by submitting a form on our website. · Competitors may submit one entry per category. · Short stories may be no longer than 2,500 words and poetry may be no longer than a page. · Prizes will be awarded at in a ceremony to be announced at a later date. · Participants must be 18 or older and must be residents of Prince
William County or the City of Manassas. · Deadline Monday, October 31.
Adopt Your Next Pet with the Humane Society of Northern Virginia: Montclair
Saturday, October 1, 1:00 p.m. Swing by to meet adoptable pets, ask questions of the experts, and fall in love with your next furry family member! Visitors will be able to meet the pets and submit adoption applications on-site. Please note that final purchase will be arranged through the adopting organization at a later date.
Dungeons $ Dragons for Adults: Montclair
First Mondays, 5:00 p.m.
October 3, November 7 Play D&D at Montclair Library! Join us on the first Monday of each month for an on-going Dungeons and Dragons campaign. Beginners and experienced players are welcome. Registration required.
Medicare Enrollment Virtual Information Sessions
Manassas City: Tuesday, October 4, 2:00 p.m. Montclair: Monday, October, 10, 2:00 p.m. Potomac: Thursday, October 13, 2:00 p.m. Central: Tuesday, October 18, 2:00 p.m. The Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) is part of a national network of programs that offers FREE, unbiased, confidential counseling and assistance for people with Medicare. Counseling Topics include Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medigap/Supplemental Plans and Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs). Counselors are trained and certified to help you eligible individuals understand and compare Medicare benefits, and assist with filing for benefits based on income and resources, and to help eligible individuals receive assistance with their premiums, copays, and deductibles.
Repair Café: Montclair
Friday, October 7, 12:00 p.m. Saturday, October 8, 12:00 p.m. Join us for a two-day Repair Café Expo where local experts and volunteers help repair your household items. Bring your small appliances, clothes, jewelry, and more! This program made possible with funding from the ChangeX Repair Café Grant.
Take a Hike: Discover Your Local Parks: Montclair
Friday, October 14, 11:00 a.m.
Are you a hiking enthusiast? Come meet some local Prince
William County Park Rangers and learn more about the exciting parks and trails that Prince William County has to offer.
*Renaissance Faire: Potomac
All Ages Saturday, October 15, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Here Ye! Here Ye! Welcome, all, to Potomac Library’s Renaissance Faire! Dress in costume, if ye care to. Partake of snacks! Amuse thyself with games and crafts. Learn about the Renaissance Age. There will be something for everyone, from babes-in-arms to elders.
In-Person FAFSA Assistance: Manassas City
Saturdays, 11:00 a.m.–3:00p.m.
October 15, November19 Financial Aid Officers from Northern Virginia Community College’s Manassas Campus will provide one-on-one assistance and answer questions about submitting your FAFSA for the 2023-2024 school year. Call 703-792-8820 or visit pwcva.gov/library to see what paperwork you must bring to receive assistance. No registration is required.
Cure the Zombie Virus: An Escape Room Adventure: Montclair
Saturday, October 22, 10:00 a.m. Work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and retrieve the antidote to the zombie virus that a twisted scientist just unleashed upon the world! Registration required. Players can register as a group or be teamed up with other solo registrants. Each game session will take roughly one hour.
Community Services Fair: Potomac
Tuesday, October 25, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Potomac Library is organizing a fair to promote how our library, county agencies, and non profit organizations can assist Prince William County residents to find more information and support about public assistance programs and services.
Veterans and the Arts Series
Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m.
October 19, 26 Join Thuy Senser, an adjunct professor at the George Mason University School of Art and Design, to learn how to take better portrait photos on your smartphone. Learn the basic camera settings, composition, how to utilize native software and free apps, and more. Bring a smartphone with a working camera.
Basic Close-Up and Macro Photography Using a Smartphone: Central
Saturday, November 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 9, 6:00–7:30 p.m. Add a new dimension to your camera skills with close-up and macro photography. Learn how to find the perfect camera settings on your phone combined with the setups to capture close-up details of any object. This workshop is taught by Thuy Senser, adjunct professor at the George Mason University School of Art and Design. Bring a smartphone with a working camera.
Exploring Innovative Collage Techniques Through Botanical Imagery: Haymarket Gainesville
Friday, November 18, 1:00–2:30 p.m. Saturday, November 19, 2:00–3:30 p.m. Taught by Stephanie Benassi, faculty in the School of Art at George Mason University, this workshop starts with historical botanical imagery combined with 21st century mediated imagery. Learn how to incorporate a range of materials and methods to produce contemporary imagery that can be both a vehicle for story-telling and decorative innovation. Materials will be provided.
George Mason University’s Veterans and the Arts Initiative is a proud sponsor of these workshops designed for militaryconnected community members. Registration required.
American Red Cross Blood Drive: Montclair
Tuesday, October 25, 12:00 p.m. Give the gift of life by donating blood at your library. Register online at www.redcross.org or contact 1-800-RED-CROSS to schedule your life saving donation. Use sponsor code: Montclair Community Library. Some walk-ins will be accepted as schedule allows.
Community Writing Challenge–NaNoWriMo: Montclair
November 1–30 Celebrate National Novel Writing Month with us by joining our Beanstack challenge! Log your words on Beanstack and contribute to our community average. All diligent writers who meet the 50k word count goal will be entered to win a prize. For more information, visit our library events calendar at pwcva.gov/library.
Memory Book Contest: Manassas City
November 1–30 In honor of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, stop by Manassas City Library to enter in a drawing to win a memory book. The memory book will include prompts and activities to help your loved one remember their life story as well as a way to connect and share fond memories for future generations.
NaNoWriMo Café: Montclair
Monday, November 14, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 29, 5:30 p.m. Gather with fellow writers and NaNoWriMo participants to commiserate, critique, and compose in our dedicated writing lounge. Enjoy some complimentary snacks and relaxing, instrumental music while we all work together toward our writing goals. Drop in any time during program hours.
American Red Cross Blood Drive: Central
Tuesday, November 15, 2:00–6:30 p.m. Give the gift of life by donating blood at your library. Please go to www.redcross.org and enter the code Central Library to schedule your life saving donation. The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood.
AIM for Better Health–Know your Family Health History: Virtual
Ages 18 and up Thursday, November 17, All Day Do you know your family’s health history? Join representatives from Lake Ridge Library and AIM Human Performance to learn more about the benefits of building a family health portrait. Stick around afterwards for a brief workout led by personal trainer, Michelle Viggiano!
CHINN PARK LIBRARY
Walk-in One-on-One Tech Help: Haymarkt Gainesville
Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Need help with your laptop, basic computer skills, iPad, Kindle, smartphone, or other device? We offer personalized sessions with a library staff member using your device or one of our Public Access Computers. No appointment necessary. For more information, call 703-792-8700.
Interview Workshop: Potomac
Wednesday, September 7, 6:00–7:30 p.m. Get ready to ace that interview at the Community Job Fair on September 15! Join us for a short presentation and then practice what you have learned in a friendly environment. Registration required.
Hidden Gems: Dumfries
Second Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.
September 10: Introduction to the computer
October 8: Internet Searching and Safety
November 12: Microsoft Word Essentials Registration Required. Limited seating.
Tech Clinic: Chinn Park
Third Fridays, All Day
September 16, November 18 Join us for technology help. In depth help available through registration. Walk-in help available for brief issues.
How to Eat to Lose Weight–Nutrition Program: Potomac
Tuesday, September 20, 11 a.m. Join us for a fun and informative program in which a nutrition coach and personal trainer will explain to us what micronutrients are, how to improve our metabolism, and how to eat what we love and still lose weight. MANAGEMENT AND GOVERNMENT INFORMATION CENTER
Introduction to Finding Grants
Wednesday, September 21, 12:00 p.m. Discover what funders are looking for in nonprofits seeking grants and how to find potential funders in this introductory course. ·Learn the 10 most important things you need to know about finding grants, including: · Who funds nonprofits and what are their motivations. · What do funders really want to know about the organizations they are interested in funding. · How do you identify potential funders and make the first approach. Note: This orientation is not intended for individuals seeking grants for their own use. Register at the library events page at pwcva.gov/library
8 Steps for Cultivating Relationships
Wednesday, October 19, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Strong donor relationships are critical to fundraising success at all stages of the development cycle. That’s a fact! Explore eight steps successful fundraisers take to reach and surpass their goals. These steps present proven techniques for connecting with donors, effectively communicating your cause, and cultivating long-term relationships. This training is made possible thanks to our partnership with the Potomac Health Foundation. Upon completion of this course, you should be able to: · Explain how selling your cause is a part of fundraising in the social sector. · Make the case for the value of donor relationships for fundraising success. · Assess your circles of influence to identify prospective new donors. · Draft a plan to improve relationships with your existing donors. Register at the library events page at pwcva.gov/library
Introduction to Project Budgets
Friday, November 18, 12:00–1:00 p.m. Are you ready to start fundraising for your project or idea, but don't know what and how much to ask for? If preparing a budget for your foundation grant is holding you back, come learn the basic elements of how to draft a project budget with confidence. This class will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to generate a standard project budget for a foundation proposal. We will discuss: · The basic components of a project budget including income and expenses. · How to estimate the realistic cost of a project. · What other financial documents you may also need to submit with your proposal. Register at the library events page at pwcva.gov/library
*Art Appreciation–Leonardo da
Vinci: Chinn Park
Monday, September 26, 6:00 p.m. Each Art Appreciation examines a topic related to art and art history. Subjects may cover a range of topics related to art appreciation, history, and creation.
Medicare 101: Understanding Your Benefits: Chinn Park
Saturday, October 8, 3:00 p.m. This presentation will give you the knowledge you need about Medicare in order to assist you in planning your health care. Registration recommended
Mental Health Literacy Event: Potomac
Monday, October 10, 6:00 pm Are you interested in starting therapy but don’t know what to look for? Where to start? Woodbridge Therapy Group will discuss the different fields of therapy, the professionals that can help, and what to expect or not expect from therapy.
Picture This: What to do with all those old photographs: Potomac
Monday, October 17, 6:30 p.m. Terri Blanchette, from TimeSorters, LLC, will share information on the various types of photographs found in family collections, what they can tell us about the past, and how best to care for our photographs whether we have them in boxes, frames or scrapbooks.
You and Your “Stuff”–How to Successfully Transition your Memories to the Next Generation with Less Heartache: Potomac
Monday, October 24, 6:30 p.m. Terrri Blanchette from TimeSorters, LLC will discuss ways to successfully transition the “stuff” of your history for the next generation.
Avoiding Holiday Scams: Chinn Park
Tuesday, November 1 6:00–7:30 p.m. As people prepare for the holiday season, scammers are also getting ready. Learn to identify and avoid common holiday scams. Registration recommended.
CONVERSATION GROUPS and ESL
*English Conversation Group: Chinn Park
Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
September 7, 14, 21, 28
October 5, 12, 19, 26
November 2, 9, 16, 30
Improve your English skills in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where speaker of all languages are welcome. Supported by the Literacy Volunteers of
America. For more information and to join a class, contact Literacy Volunteers at 703-670-5702 or email lvapw@lvapw.org.
*Spanish Conversation: Chinn Park
Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
September 7, 14, 21, 28
October 5, 12, 19, 26
November 2, 9, 16, 30 An opportunity to practice Spanish in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Refreshments generously provided by the Friends of Chinn Park Regional Library.
Citizenship Class: Chinn Park
Mondays 12:30 p.m.
September 12, 19, 26
October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
November 7, 14, 21, 28 To become a U.S. citizen an adult must prepare, study and pass the Naturalization Test. The students will learn about the United States through civics lessons, studying the 100 questions, learning/using the vocabulary necessary for successful testing and passing the oral test/interview. This is a multilevel class and registration is required.
English Conversation: Haymarket Gainesville
Tuesdays, 6:00–7:30 p.m. Improve your speaking skills in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where speakers of all languages are welcome. This program is supported by library volunteers and requires a basic working knowledge of English. First come, first served until capacity is reached.
ELL Reading Passages: Virtual
Second Thursdays 7:00–8:00 p.m.
September 8, October 13
November 10 This club is specially tailored for English Language Learners. “Reading Passages” is just like a book club. We read passages from NPR News, The Washington Post, and portions of books. It is timely, a much easier commitment than a book club, and so much fun! Registration required. For more information, please visit pwcva.gov/library.
English Conversation Club: Manassas City
Fridays, 10:00 a.m. September 9–November 18 Improve your speaking skills in a friendly, relaxed virtual atmosphere where speakers of all languages are welcome.
English Conversation Group: Potomac
Fridays, 12:30–2:00 p.m. An opportunity to practice English in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
English Conversation: Bull Run
Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m.
October 4, 11, 18, 25
November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Improve your English conversation skills in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where speakers of all languages are welcome. This program is supported by library volunteers. No registration required.
Virtual English Conversation Group: Potomac
Mondays, 3:00–4:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for new speakers of English to practice and improve their speaking skills in a fun and friendly virtual environment. For more information and to join the meetings, register online or contact Maggie Dobrev, mdobrev@pwcgov.org.
*Crafts to Go!: Haymarket Gainesville
First Mondays
September 6, October 3, November 7 Swing by and pick up a bag full of fun! Our Crafts to Go bags will include the supplies you’ll need plus instructions. Recommended for adults; new craft bags will be available beginning on the first Monday of each month while supplies last.
Stitchers Circle: Montclair
Second Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.
September 8, October 13, November 10 Whether you are a seasoned stitcher or a beginner come join us to share the craft of cross-stitch. Bring your own supplies and join the fun!
Basket Weaving 102–Plaid Basket: Haymarket Gainesville
Saturday, September 10, 1:00–4:00 p.m.
In this slightly more advanced class, we’re making a “plaid” wall basket perfect for mail! We will provide all equipment and supplies! Visit pwcva.gov/library for more information and to register. Registration opens
August 13.
*Bad Art Night: Chinn Park
Select Mondays, 6:00 p.m.
September 12, October 10, November 14
Join us for an opportunity to create art in a supportive and low-stakes environment. There is no obligation to be concerned with a finished work. This is a time for enjoying the process. Feel free to bring things you are already working on. Basic supplies will be provided. For information email bmiller@pwcgov.org.
*Busy Hands Social Club: Central
Second Tuesdays, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
September 13, October 11, November 8 Would you like to find a place to work on your favorite hobby and meet others who also enjoy needle crafts and crochet? Bring your current project. All skill levels are welcome and all knitters, crocheters, stitchers, etc. are encouraged to come. No registration required.
Fall Take and Makes: Lake Ridge
September 15, October 15, November 15 Celebrate the autumn season with monthly take and makes for adults. From Halloween bookmarks to gratitude journals, our fall kits will include all necessary supplies and instructions. Registration opensThursday, September 1 for the entire season.
Chinn Park Quilting: Chinn Park
Ages 12 and up Select Saturdays, 11:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
September 17, October 15, November 19 Cabin Branch Quilters and Chinn Park Regional Library are offering in-seat quilting lessons to anyone in the Prince William community who wants to learn the Art of Quilting. Individuals must have general knowledge of sewing and be at least 12 years of age (with parent accompaniment). Registration required for class portion, space is limited. Also available as quilting space for different skill levels.
Tabletop Role-Playing Games Club: Virtual
Second Tuesday, 6:00 p.m.
September 13, October 11, November 8
Come and enjoy an evening of tabletop gaming. Whether you are experienced with the hobby or have been interested and never had the opportunity, this is for you. For information, email bmiller@pwcgov.org. Registration required.
*Halloween Shadow Boxes Take and Make: Chinn Park
Saturday, October 1 Create a unique and festive display utilizing the shadow box and the fall and Halloween decorations included in your kit. Available while supplies last.
Chinn Park Chess Club: Chinn Park
Ages 12 and Up
First and Third Mondays, 3:00–8:00 p.m.
September 19
October 3, 17
November 7, 21
Join the Chinn Park Chess club. This is a chance to enjoy a game or ask an experienced player for help getting started. All skill levels are welcome.
*A Spooky Take and Make: Chinn Park
Friday, October 14 Come pick up a bag of craft leading into Halloween. Registration required as there are limited supplies. The program is generously funded by the friends of the library. To register visit pwcva.gov/library.
