See North Side Library’s updated children’s area and more PAGE 3 Celebrate Valentine’s Day at DMPL PAGE 4 February/March 2025
Library programs are made possible with support from the Des Moines Public Library Foundation and its generous donors. The Foundation supports at least 87 percent of Des Moines Public Library programs, and provides funding for AViD and the Summer Reading program, which supports 5,000+ children participants each year.
For more information about the Des Moines Public Library Foundation and to find out how you can support the library with a donation, go to dmpl.org/foundation
HOURS AND LOCATIONS
Central Library
1000 Grand Avenue
9 AM - 8 PM Monday-Thursday
9 AM - 6 PM Friday
10 AM - 5 PM Saturday
12 - 4 PM Sunday
Pickup Window:
12 - 6 PM Monday-Friday
Closed Saturday and Sunday
East Side Library
2559 Hubbell Avenue
10 AM - 8 PM Monday-Thursday
10 AM - 6 PM Friday
10 AM - 5 PM Saturday
Forest Avenue Library
1326 Forest Avenue
10 AM - 8 PM Monday-Thursday
10 AM - 6 PM Friday
10 AM - 5 PM Saturday
Franklin Avenue Library 5000 Franklin Avenue
9 AM- 8 PM Monday-Thursday
9 AM - 6 PM Friday
10 AM - 5 PM Saturday
12 - 4 PM Sunday
Pickup Window:
10 AM - 8 PM Monday-Thursday
10 AM - 6 PM Friday
10 AM - 5 PM Saturday
North Side Library 3516 Fifth Avenue
10 AM - 8 PM Monday-Thursday
10 AM - 6 PM Friday
10 AM - 5 PM Saturday
South Side Library
1111 Porter Avenue
10 AM - 8 PM Monday-Thursday
10 AM - 6 PM Friday
10 AM - 5 PM Saturday
Closing: All six locations of the Des Moines Public Library will be CLOSED on Monday, February 17 for a staff development day.
A facelift at the North Side Library has brightened the library and is creating new, memorable experiences for people of all ages.
If you’ve been to the North Side Library in the past several months, you’ve probably noticed tarps, caution signs, wet walls, and other signs of a remodel in progress. The work being done has brightened the library, making it a more welcoming place for patrons of all ages.
Here’s what’s changed at North:
The Carousel
The change most families will notice right away is a brand new, miniature carousel, encircling a pillar and hovering above book shelves at the entrance to the children’s area. This custom-fit carousel evokes The Heritage Carousel at Union Park, a landmark on the city’s North Side. The carousel moves around, bobbing up and down, horses and carriages circling the pillar. There’s even a tiger on the carousel, as that was voted by kids as the most popular animal at Union Park’s Heritage Carousel!
Other Changes
Rosie’s Park Arch
At the back of the children’s area, a new arch spans the length of a bookshelf. “Rosie’s Park” is written on the arch, which is the name of the children’s area at North. The arch resembles the arch a block away from the library. That arch spans Sixth Avenue at Euclid Avenue, marking the center of the Highland Park Business District.
Fresh Paint Job and New Toys
New drywall and a fresh, white paint job has replaced the green cinder block wall look across the entire library. The children’s section also has new toys, including a new “Rosie’s Pizza Shop” and a new activity storage table for some of the toys and learning activities.
The other major changes are helping make the library more functional. Additional public bathrooms were added, and the staff workroom was also remodeled. Additionally, last year, the parking lot was expanded. This provided not just additional library parking, but parking for people visiting businesses in the area.
Changes in the children’s area were funded through gifts from the Mary K. Davis Estate, the KFC Foundation, and the Lane Hathaway Early Literacy Fund. The latter gift was made through the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, and all three gifts were facilitated by the Des Moines Public Library Foundation. Other work was funded through City of Des Moines funds.
• Tuesdays at East Side Library: Collages, 3:30 PM
• Wednesdays at North Side Library: Nature Art, 3:30 PM
• Thursdays at South Side Library: Drawing Comics, 4 PM MARCH
• Mondays at Forest Avenue Library: Breakdancing, 4 PM
• Tuesdays at East Side Library: Drawing Comics, 3:30 PM
• Wednesdays at North Side Library: Monoprints, 3:30 PM
• Thursdays at South Side Library: Wire Sculpture, 4 PM
Take part in a fun activity every day as part of ASAP Days at the library. Each class will be led by a professionally trained teaching instructor provided in partnership with the After School Arts Program. A snack and refreshments will be provided.
Manga Book Club
Tuesday, February 4 and March 4, 4 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Manga Book Club is a place for you to make friends, read fun and exciting stories, talk about manga, watch anime, make art, and play games and other fun activities. It’s great for both manga stans and those just getting into the genre. For ages 8-12.
Science Wednesdays
Wednesday, February 5 and March 5, 4 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Science Wednesdays is a chance for kids age 6-12 to explore different aspects of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). In February, we’re learning about the science of sound and vibrations. In March, we’re going to take a look at Shrinky Dinks and make our own tiny creations. Registration required.
Book Bites
Thursday, February 6, 13, 20, 27, and March 6 and 13 | East Side Library
Join us each Thursday for a fun storytime and a tasty snack! For grades K-5. Registration required.
Art Club
Thursday, February 6 and March 6, 6:30 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Each month we’ll read a fun picture book and do an art-related project. We will learn about artists, art concepts, and topics that will give us inspiration to make our own art. For ages 6-11.
Little Explorers/Sensory Play Hour
• Friday, February 7 and March 7, 10-11 AM | Franklin Avenue Library
• Tuesday, February 18 and March 18, 4-5 PM | South Side Library
• Saturday, February 22 and March 15, 10-11 AM | Central Library
Bring your young ones to discover, learn, and play with different sensory activities. Please wear play clothes as some activities may be messy. Designed for ages 0-5.
Model Train Display with DesMoiNTrak
Saturday, February 8, 10 AM-5 PM, and Sunday, February 9, 12-3 PM | Central Library
All aboard! Trains are taking over the Central Library! Visit the library to see a huge model train display set up by the DesMoiNTrak modular railroad club. The N scale model railroads will be featured in the meeting rooms for train lovers of all ages.
Kid Librarian Art Show Reception
Saturday, February 8, 2-4 PM | Central Library
The Central Kid Librarians have created art depicting what they love about books and about the library. Join us to celebrate library kids and check out their masterpieces! Light refreshments will be provided.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day With DMPL!
Valentine’s Day Cooking Class
Saturday, February 8, 11:30 AM | North Side Library
Practice basic cooking skills and bond with family and friends while you make a delicious and healthy Valentine’s Day treat! Registration required (please register all children and adults attending).
Valentine’s Day Festive Garland
Monday, February 10, all day | South Side Library
Stop in and pick up a special Valentine’s Day take-and-make craft bag, while supplies last.
Valentine’s Day Box Workshop
Monday, February 10, 11 AM | East Side Library
Make your own festive box for school Valentine parties! We’ll provide all the materials you need to design and decorate a box as creative and unique as you are. Bring your own shoebox or use one of ours.
Mail-a-Hug
Tuesday, February 11, 2 PM | East Side Library
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in the most heartfelt way by creating a life-size “hug” to give to someone special. Using craft paper, participants will trace their arms and decorate their “hug” with messages, drawings, and creative flair. We’ll provide the materials so you can mail your hug to friends and family.
Crafternoon: Valentines
Friday, February 14, 1-5 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Stop in and use our supplies to make valentines to hand out to friends and family.
kids
ARL TheraPets
• Monday, February 10, 4 PM | North Side Library
• Tuesday, February 11, 5:30 PM | East Side Library
• Tuesday, February 18 and March 18, 4 PM | Central Library
The Animal Rescue League (ARL) is bringing a TheraPet to help lift your spirits and provide some much-needed furry companionship.
Art Club
Tuesday, February 11 and March 11, 4 PM | North Side Library
Share your love for art with others each month. In February, we’ll make paper fortune cookies. In March, we’re making slime. For ages 8-18.
Chess Club
Tuesday, February 11 and March 11, 4 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Learn to play or come to test your skills with other players. Chess boards will be provided at the library, or you can bring your own. One rule or strategy will be featured each month.
Polk County Conservation: Animals in Winter
Wednesday, February 12, 3:30 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Join an educator from Polk County Conservation to learn about migration, hibernation, and other ways animals survive during the winter.
Art in the Library
Wednesday, February 12 and March 12, 4 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Take part in a new art project each month. In February, we’re building a mini theater and creating shadow puppets for a puppet show. In March, we’ll welcome guest author and artist Paula Kerman to talk about her book Hooligans, Rebels, and Rabble-Rousers.
Puzzle and Game Café
Saturday, February 15 and March 8, and Friday, February 21 and March 28, 12-5 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Saturday, February 22 and March 22, 11 AM-1 PM | South Side Library
Stop in with the family, grab a warm drink and a snack, and choose from a variety of games or puzzles to play. For ages 8+
Magical Winter Ball
Saturday, February 15, 2-3:30 PM | South Side Library
Hear ye, hear ye! You are invited to South Side’s Magical Winter Ball! Put on your favorite outfit or costume and come to the library, where you’ll have the chance to meet a princess, do fun crafts and activities, and listen to a story!
LEGO Club
Tuesday, February 18 and March 18, 3-5 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Join us each month after school for open LEGO play. We’ll provide some STEM-related challenge prompts, or you can build whatever you like!
Sensory Play Hour
Tuesday, February 18 and March 18, 4-5 PM | South Side Library
From cool textures to fun activities, kids can have a great time doing what they do best: playing! The program space is set up in stations, so families can arrive when they’re able and move between activities at their own pace.
Epic Graphic Novel Book Club
Thursday, February 20 and March 20, 4 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Each month, we’ll chat about a book and work on a fun activity or craft related to the book. Register to receive a copy of this month’s book. For ages 7-11.
Tween Book Club
Tuesday, February 25 and March 25, 4 PM | North Side Library
Have a snack, talk about the book of the month, and enjoy a fun activity each month. Register in advance to grab a copy of each month’s book. For ages 10-14.
Level Up: Switch Party!
Tuesday, February 25 and March 25, 4-5 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Join other gamers and test your Nintendo Switch skills. Ages 6+.
Fail-a-bration Party
Thursday, February 27, 3 PM | Central Library
Failure is a part of learning. And that’s worth celebrating! Based on the picture book Fail-a-Bration, we’ll talk about the times we missed our shots. We’ll also make bad art, dance terribly, and celebrate our failures.
Kids Pokémon Card Swap
Thursday, February 27 and March 27, 4 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Bring your friends and come to this monthly program with any cards you want to trade. This event is open to children age 18 and younger.
Movie Watch Party: Vivo
Friday, February 28, 3 PM | Forest Avenue Library
This family-friendly adventure comedy follows an adventurous and music-loving capuchin monkey as he makes a perilous journey from Havana to Miami to pursue his calling and ambitions in showbusiness. Rated PG. Popcorn and activities provided!
The Remember Balloons storytimes
• Central Library: Saturday, March 8, 2 PM
• South Side Library: Monday, March 10, 6:30 PM
• Franklin Avenue Library: Tuesday, March 11, 4 PM
• Forest Avenue Library: Wednesday, March 19, 10:15 AM
• North Side Library: Thursday, March 20, 10:30 AM
• East Side Library: Monday, March 24, 10:30 AM
Join us and special guests from Des Moines Performing Arts for a special reading of The Remember Balloons, then take part in a craft. Each storytime will also feature a giveaway of four tickets to see a dance production of The Remember Balloons that comes to the Civic Center stage on March 29.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Watch Party
Friday, March 14, 10:30 AM | North Side Library
Cowabunga! Watch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) while enjoying snacks and TMNT crafts at North Side. Rated PG.
kids
Dog Man and Friends BINGO
Friday, March 14, 3:30 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Celebrate all of Dav Pilkey’s hilarious characters like Captain Underpants, Ricky Ricotta, Cat Kid, and Dog Man as they show up on your BINGO card! Prizes will be awarded to the winners.
Movie Marathon
Monday, March 17, 10 AM-6 PM | Central Library
Kick off your spring break at the Central Library with a movie and craft marathon! Each movie will have an accompanying themed craft to work on as you watch the film. We’ll watch Encanto, Trolls Band Together, Inside Out 2, and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Sensational Science: DIY Bath Bombs
Monday, March 17, 2 PM | East Side Library
Get ready to mix, mold, and create your very own fizzy bath bombs! In this hands-on program, you’ll combine simple ingredients to craft colorful, fragrant bath bombs perfect for a relaxing soak or a fun gift.
Movie Watch Party: The Wild Robot
Monday, March 17, 2 PM | Forest Avenue Library
After a shipwreck, an intelligent robot called Roz is stranded on an uninhabited island. To survive the harsh environment, Roz bonds with the island’s animals and cares for an orphaned baby goose. Rated PG.
Luchador Storytime with Latin Thunder
Monday, March 17, 4 PM | North Side Library
Monday, March 17, 6:30 PM | South Side Library
Join us for a special storytime featuring Latin Thunder, a Mexican Luchador (wrestler), for a reading of Niño Wrestles the World! Afterwards, we will have time for fan pics and autographs!
Acompañenos a escuchar el cuento “Niño Wrestles the World” con Latin Thunder, un luchador Mexicano, seguido por fotos y autógrafos!
Ozobot Coding Mazes
Tuesday, March 18, 2 PM | East Side Library
Embark on a coding adventure with Ozobots! Design and draw colorful mazes for these tiny robots, then watch as they follow your paths and respond to your commands. Perfect for budding coders and creative problem-solvers.
Creative Readers and the Iowa Wolves
Tuesday, March 18, 4 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Celebrate the joy of reading as you meet players from the Iowa Wolves and enjoy basketball themed activities at this special Creative Readers program.
Engineering Challenge Day
Wednesday, March 19, 2 PM | East Side Library
Put on your thinking caps and test your engineering and building skills! Try out an egg drop experiment, create popsicle stick catapults, and construct spaghetti bridges.
Polk County Conservation: Animals in Iowa
Wednesday, March 19, 3:30 PM | Forest Avenue Library
What kind of animals live in Iowa? What kind of animals used to live in Iowa? Join a Polk County Conservation educator to discover the answers to these questions and more.
Sewing Basics for Kids
Wednesday, March 19, 3:30 PM | South Side Library
Learn how to sew with presenter Kaitlyn Munro! You’ll learn how to use tools like thimbles, needles, and threaders to make an adventure bag! Best for ages 8+. A limited number of sewing kits will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. You may also bring your own supplies from home.
Exotic Animals with Professor Bechtel
Thursday, March 20, 3 PM | East Side Library
Wartburg College Professor Michael Bechtel is bringing his fascinating creatures to the library, including the star of the show— an axolotl! Learn about unique habitats, incredible adaptations, and get up close to some truly extraordinary animals.
IlluminART Bookmarks
Thursday, March 20, 6 PM | East Side Library
Combine creativity and technology to craft your own light-up bookmarks! Using copper tape, LEDs, and batteries, you’ll design unique, glowing works of bookmark ART!
Movie Watch Party: Sing and Sing 2
Friday, March 21, 1 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Join us for a double feature from the Sing universe! Popcorn and activities provided. Movies are rated PG.
Library Escape Room: Math Quest
Friday, March 21, 2 PM | East Side Library
Trapped in the library? Your only way out is through math! Solve riddles, crack number codes, and use logic to unlock the door before time runs out. This thrilling escape room combines puzzles and problem-solving to make math an exciting adventure for all ages!
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical Sneak Preview
Saturday, March 29, 10:30 AM | Franklin Avenue Library
Visit the library for a special sneak preview of the Des Moines Community Playhouse production of Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, based on the book by Mo Willems. Enjoy the performance and enter to win free tickets to the play!
teens
VolunTeens
• Monday, February 3 and March 10, 4 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
• Wednesdays, 4-5 PM | South Side Library (Drop-in program)
• Wednesday, February 12 and March 12, 4 PM | Central Library
Become a VolunTeen and help with library projects and programs. For ages 12-18. Potential VolunTeens must submit a volunteer application form. You may find an application at your respective library location.
Switch Gaming
• Tuesday, February 4 and 18 and March 4 and 18, 4 PM | North Side Library
• Monday, February 10 and March 17, 3 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
• Tuesday, February 25 and March 25, 4 PM | Forest Avenue Library
We will have games like Mario Kart 8 & Super Mario Bros. Ultimate. Feel free to bring your own Switch or share the library’s controllers.
Teen Chef
Wednesday, February 19 and March 19, 5 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Sharpen your kitchen knowledge at our Teen Chef program and learn how to make a variety of delicious foods. In February, we’ll make upscale peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, with a variety of nut butters, jams, and more. In March, we’ll have a pancake supper with all your favorite toppings. For grades 6-12. Registration required.
K-Pop Meetup
Tuesday, February 25, 5 PM | Central Library
Come to Central Library every month and bring your photocards to trade. Invite your friends or meet and hang out with other fans! Enjoy snacks, other activities, and listening to music.
The Art of Expression
Resin Art: Trinket Trays
Wednesday, February 26 and March 26, 5 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
The Art of Expression is a monthly program for teens to learn and create different types of art in a relaxed atmosphere. In February, we’ll have a watercolor workshop, learning about the medium and techniques. In March, we will learn about the Zentangle Method. For grades 6-12
Thursday, March 27, 5:30 PM | East Side Library
Make your own dazzling trinket tray with resin art! In this hands-on workshop, we will learn how to work with resin, add vibrant pigments, embed fun items, and design a functional piece of art to take home. Perfect for keeping jewelry, keys, or other treasures, these trays make great gifts or personal keepsakes.
adults
AARP Tax Preparation Assistance
Wednesdays and Saturdays, 10 AM-4 PM | East Side Library
Through April 12, AARP will be at the library each Wednesday and Saturday to help the public with their taxes. Appointments can be made by calling 515-635-1471. Walk-ins not guaranteed.
There will be no tax preparation assistance on February 1 or 15.
The Outreach Project
Fridays, 1-3 PM | Central Library
Community advocates will provide information about community resources like meal sites and shelters. They may also offer support and referrals for matters like scheduling a medical or mental health appointment or applying for an ID.
There will be no Outreach Project on February 14.
Sit N’ Stitch
Saturday, February 1 and March 1, 1:30-3:30 PM | South Side Library
Spend a few hours with other crafters and work on your knit, crochet, or needle craft projects. Please bring your own supplies and projects with you.
Puzzle Exchange
Saturday, February 1, 2-3 PM | South Side Library
Exchange your beloved puzzles for new-to-you ones.
DMPL & Dragons
Sunday, February 2 and March 2, 12:30 PM | Central Library
Thursday, February 20 and March 20, 5:30 PM | Central Library
Dungeons & Dragons is a role-playing game set in worlds of swords and sorcery where players use their imaginations to tell a story and create an adventure together. No future commitment is required to play.
Technology Basics
Monday, February 3 and March 3, 3 PM | North Side Library
Join us for a computer basics class and increase your skills. In February, you will learn how to navigate the Windows 10 and 11 operating systems and manage files. During March’s session, you will be introduced to basic terminology and navigation of internet browsers, search engines and websites.
Writers’ Workshop
Monday, February 3 and March 3, 5:30 PM | Central Library
Share samples of work and receive feedback from other writers in the group. Email your submission to Arlette at agugonzalez@dmpl.org by 12 PM the Tuesday before the program. Please include your name on the file and at the top of the submitted document.
Beyond Birth: Baby’s First Year
Tuesdays, 9 AM | Central Library
Beyond Birth is a free weekly postpartum support group for parents and their new babies. Facilitated by Blank Children’s Hospital, each week will feature a guest presenter on a variety of postpartum topics, plus plenty of time to meet other new parents and enjoy time at the library.
One-on-One Computer Sessions
Tuesdays, 10 AM | Forest Avenue Library
Receive individual assistance with creating an email account, polishing a resume, typing a document, or applying for a job. Individual computer assistance will be offered first-come, first-served basis. There will be no One-on-One Computer Sessions on February 11.
Astrology for Beginners
Tuesday, February 4, 6 PM | North Side Library
In this introduction to the basic language of astrology, participants will get an overview of the houses, signs, and planets that are represented in the format of the birth chart. Learning these basic elements will empower participants to communicate about astrology in a meaningful way. Registration required.
Job Seekers Help with the Evelyn K. Davis Center
Wednesdays, 10 AM-12 PM, North Side Library
Staff from the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families are ready to provide one-on-one job search and resume assistance to job seekers. A career coach can guide you through resume building, applying for jobs, referrals to employers, and other resources.
Buy. Eat. Live Healthy. (with ISU Extension)
Wednesdays in February, 1:30 PM | North Side Library
Join ISU Extension for this 8-week course that supports individuals and families in making healthy choices on a tight grocery budget. Lessons focus on nutrition education, cooking skills, grocery budget management, and active living. Registration required.
Black History Month Watch Party: Telling Our Own Stories
Wednesdays in February, 6 PM | Forest Avenue Library
In celebration of Black History Month, join us as we watch Telling Our Own Story, a film series produced by Iowa PBS. This collection of four short films features four Black Iowa filmmakers as they examine issues and give insight on topics impacting their community.
Glowforge Training
Thursdays, 3 PM | Central Library
Learn how to use the Glowforge Plus Laser Engraver at Tech Central! This program takes the place of the one-on-one Glowforge tutorial, so you will be fully qualified to book and use the Glowforge on your own after this program. A library card and email address are required to register for this program. Registration required.
Homebuyer Education
Thursday, February 6, 5:30 PM | Central Library
Learn the ins and outs of buying a home during this program! A HOME, Inc. staff member will discuss every step in the homebuying process, from finding a realtor to signing the closing paperwork. Registration required.
Snippets: A Writers’ Workshop for Short Works
Friday, February 7 and March 7, 10 AM | Central Library
This group will read and discuss works out loud. Email submissions to Julia at jmdunt@dmpl.org if you would like them printed out. Registration required.
3D Printer
Training Class
Mondays, February 10 and 24 and March 10 and 31, 5 PM | Central Library
Learn how to use the Bambu X-1 Carbon filament 3D printer and the Formlabs Form 3 resin 3D printer. Participants will learn how to use the free software to prepare their 3D files for printing at the library After completing the training, participants may then register to use both 3D printers. Registration required.
Manualidades para adultos: Arte de colaboración | Crafting for Adults: Collaborative Art
Tuesday, February 11, 3:30 PM | Central Library
Do you love to craft? Come make a collaborative art piece or bring your current project and make some progress! Registration recommended.
¿Te encanta hacer manualidades? ¡Ven a hacer arte de colaboración o trae tu proyecto actual y progresa! Se recomienda registrarte.
Iowa Voices on Environment and Justice
Tuesday, February 11, 6 PM | North Side Library
Tuesday, February 25, 6 PM | East Side Library
Sacrifice State explores issues of environmental justice in Iowa through interviews with Iowans from diverse experiences and backgrounds. This presentation, related to the book, navigates questions about water quality, pollution, and climate change impact — and the communities that are most impacted.
Mindfulness Meditation
Wednesday, February 12 and 26, 1:30 PM | Central Library
Learn about Mindfulness Meditation and then take part in a meditation session. This program is presented by certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Erin Husmann.
Craft-n-Carry
Wednesday, February 12, 6 PM | South Side Library – Valentine’s Day Garlands
Wednesday, March 12, 6 PM | South Side Library – Yarn Painting
During this 30-minute session, you’ll be able to grab this month’s supplies and have a quick craft tutorial. Can’t make it to the program? We’ll have Craft-N-Carry bags available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tag @desmoinespubliclibrary on Instagram with pictures of your creations!
Sewing
Sewing Basics
Thursday, February 6, and Thursday, March 13, 6:30 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Learn to create special and practical items for family and friends with help from an expert!
Costumer and sewing hobbyist Kaitlyn Munro will guide you through the basics of hand sewing and machine sewing in the first class. Each subsequent class will present an opportunity to learn a new skill or technique.
Sew Social
Tuesday, February 11 and March 11, 6 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Join us as we meet monthly to work on sewing projects, share skills and techniques, and spend time with fellow sewers at Forest Avenue Library. Kaitlyn, our Sewing for Beginners series instructor, will be on hand to help answer any questions you may have while working on your projects.
adults
Community Crafting: Introduction to Drop Spinning
Sunday, February 16, 2 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Learn how to spin yarn into fiber. The Des Moines Weavers and Spinners Guild will teach the basic technique of using a drop spindle and provide resources for purchasing your own spindle and fiber. Materials will be provided for registered participants. Registration required.
Community Craft Night
Tuesday, February 18 and March 18, 6:30 PM | North Side Library
Spend an hour making something new while enjoying the company of other local crafters. In February, learn the basics of embroidery by stitching a design on cardstock. In March, give new life to old book pages by making them into a bouquet of paper flowers. All materials provided.
Traditional Publishing 101
Wednesday, February 19, 6 PM | Central Library
Local author and DMPL library assistant Lin Thompson will walk you through the steps of the traditional publishing process, from finding an agent to submitting to publishers, with a question and answer session at the end. Lin has published several novels for children and teens through Little, Brown Books for Young Readers and Bloomsbury.
Retirement University
Thursday, February 20, 27, and March 6, 6:30 PM | Franklin Avenue Library.
Learn the basics of retiring in comfort. On February 20, we’ll talk about social security and Medicare. On February 27, we’ll discuss investments and taxes. On March 6, we’ll talk about estate planning, long term care, and legacy planning.
Franklin Cinema Club
Monday, February 24 and March 17, 6:30 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Discuss noteworthy films at the Franklin Cinema Club, a discussion series held each month. Participants view the selected film prior to attending the discussion. In February, we’re talking about the 1998 dark comedy Sliding Doors. In March, we’ll discuss the 2005 psychological thriller Match Point.
Astrology & You!
Soul Food Festival
Saturday, March 1, 11 AM-2 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Join us for the Friends of the Forest Avenue Library’s annual Soul Food Festival! Meals will be served 11 AM-2 PM. A la carte and dessert items also available as supplies last.
Saturday, March 1, 2 PM | South Side Library
Come learn about this ancient and mysterious method of divination, how it has changed over the millennia, and how it is practiced today. You will even have the chance to build an astrology chart for yourself and learn how to use it in this interactive workshop!
Owls of Iowa with Polk County Conservation
Tuesday, March 4, 6:30 PM | East Side Library
Find out whooo’s in your backyard! Owls live all around us but are very good at evading detection. Come learn how to identify our local owls by size, shape, silhouette, and sound during this program geared for adults. You will even get the chance to meet Jester Park’s ambassador owl!
Card Club
Wednesday, March 5, 6 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Memory Café
Friday, February 21, 2-4 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Friday, March 21, 2-4 PM | North Side Library
Memory Cafés provide a welcoming social gathering for people living with dementia and their care partners. The focus is creating a sense of community without the pressure to share in a support group environment. The casual program includes relaxed socializing and a planned activity.
DMPL Storytelling Festival
Saturday, February 22, 10:30 AM-4:30 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Join us for the third DMPL Storytelling Festival! Experience the oral tradition of storytelling at this all-day event. This year's program has an emphasis on humor! Enjoy stories, family-friendly activities like facepainting and crafts, and more! Featured storytellers include Jeff Doyle, Darrin Crow, and Josie Shaw, a CultureALL Ambassador.
We will play trick-taking cards games such as 500, Euchre, Hearts, Spades, Tiến lên and others. It’s a perfect opportunity to meet people, learn a new game, or join a group playing your favorite card games.
A Taste of Tarot
Saturday, March 8, 2 PM | South Side Library
Saturday, March 29, 2 PM | Franklin Avenue Library
Learn the basics of Tarot, including Tarot history, the building blocks of a Tarot deck, and more. You’ll uncover techniques for building your own Tarot deck. Participants are encouraged to bring their tarot decks but can participate without them. This program is led by local tarot reader Susan Harper.
Blind Date with a Book
Wednesday, March 12, 6:30 PM | East Side Library
Join Britney Brown from Glitter Factory for this crafting session where you'll create your own Blind Date with a Book. Bring a book of your own or find one in our book sale to curate your selection. You'll write clues, hints, and special surprises from the book to describe your book without revealing the title. Afterward, use Glitter Factory's fabulous supplies to wrap and decorate your book. Registration required.
Craft Night: Diamond Painting Magnets
Wednesday, March 19, 6 PM | Forest Avenue Library
Craft Night at the Forest Avenue Library is a great place to spend time with friends, meet new people, and enjoy a fun activity. Each month will focus on a new craft, and supplies will be provided. This month, you will diamond paint a magnet. Diamond paintings are a fun way to relax while chatting with friends.
Garden Starters
Friday, March 21, 10 AM-12 PM | Central Library
Anyone can grow their own veggies! Whether you’ve got space in your yard or a sunny spot by a window, this drop-in program is for you. Connie from Nine Square Feet will be here with seeds, supplies, and extensive expertise to help you get started. Plan your summer garden during this fun program!
