Independence Day Closure
All DMPLlocations will be closed on Friday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday. Normal hours will resume on Saturday, July 5.
Summer at the library
The Des Moines Public Library's Summer Reading Challenge is in full swing!
Kids work their way through our challenge program by reading for 20 minutes or completing various learning activities. Once the challenge is complete, turn in your worksheet and you'll get a small prize and be eligible for the big prizes in our end-of-summer drawing.
The challenge goes throughAugust 2, so there is still time to register and get started!
Learn More
Build Our Community Project
June 2 - July 31
Celebrate what makes the our neighborhood unique with the Build Our Community art project! Pick up a free kit with a few different foldable house templates at the library through July 31, design it to look like your home, and return it to be featured in our community display inAugust.
Stop in to the East Side Library to pick up a kit to participate.
Teddy Bear Campout
Thursday, July 17 | 6-7 PM
Bring your favorite teddy bear or stuffed animal for a fun-filled campout at the library! Participate in fun activities with your stuffed friend.Then, leave your buddy at the library for a special sleepover, where they’ll enjoy all sorts of adventures.The next day, see pictures of your animal friend’s overnight escapades around the library!
If you are unable to attend the story time, you may still drop your stuffy friend off at the East Side Library's Circulation desk anytime between Monday, July 14th and the event on Thursday, July 17th before 4pm. Learn more
Spock's Reptile Show
Tuesday, July 8 6-7 PM
Meet animal ambassadors from Spock’s Sanctuary, Des Moines’ reptile and amphibian rescue. Enjoy an engaging family-friendly presentation and get hands-on experiences with these fascinating creatures.
*Attendees will need to sign waivers from DMPLand Spock's Sanctuary to attend this program. You may complete the forms in person at the event or ahead of time online.
Add the event to your calendar
Featured Events at East Kids
Bird Bonanza DIY
Wednesday, July 2 10:30-11:30AM
Join Polk County Conservation for a bird-watching adventure like no other! In this fun and interactive session, you’ll get up close to bird mounts and learn about both common and rare birds found right here in Iowa. Add the event to your calendar.
*Perfect for curious minds in grades K-8.
TracksAnimal Detective Adventure
Wednesday, July 9 10:30-11:30AM
Put on your detective hat and join Polk County Conservation to discover the secret world of Iowa’s wildlife!
In this hands-on session, learn how to identify common mammal tracks and uncover clues about the animals that roam our state. Perfect for any young outdoor
Thursday, July 10 5:30-6:30 PM
Using glow-in-thedark stars and easyto-follow instructions, create your very own constellation mobile to light up your room. This craft will bring the beauty of the night sky indoors! Add the event to your calendar
explorers! Add the event to your calendar.
Embroidered Hats
Tuesday, July 15 6-8 PM
Learn a few basic stitches and embroidery tips, then create your own hand embroidered baseball hat to take home. Choose your hat color and design when you arrive. Space is limited, register to attend.
No experience needed and all supplies provided.
All materials are provided—just bring your imagination and your love of the stars!
ASAPTuesdays: Drama Games
Tuesdays 3:30-4:30 PM
Use your imagination, think on your feet, work with others, and have a lot of fun at Drama Games with ASAPTeachingArtist, Kyle Chizek. See upcomingASAPprograms.
Snack is provided to all participants every week.
Adults
Summer Camp Craft Night Android Phone Workshop
Tuesday, July 22 6-7:30 PM
Unleash your inner camper and join us for a night of creative fun! Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just looking to relive those classic summer camp vibes, this program has something for everyone.
Make friendship bracelets
Popsicle stick masterpieces Beaded lizards And more!
Bring your imaginations, and we will provide all the
Monday, July 14 6-7 PM
Join us for anAndroid workshop! We'll present the basic functions and features ofAndroid phones.You'll learn about common apps and how to use your device safely and confidently Register to attend.
materials. Add the event to your calendar.
More July Events
Adults get rewarded for reading this summer
Camp Read S'more
It is not too late to head back to the days of summer camp and join the DMPLAdult Summer Reading Challenge.
Read 30 days between May 31 andAugust 2 to earn prizes and be entered into the grand prize drawing.
Summer Reading Program Guide
Summer is jam packed with fun for kids, teens, and families at the Des Moines Public Library! View the summer reading program guide on our website.
View the guide
reference@dmpl.org
(515) 283-4152
www.dmpl.org