Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 08 | Treats for Tweets - Ottawa Hills
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - West Leonard
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 09 | Treats for Tweets - Main
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Level 2
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 09 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 09 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Side
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 09 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 10 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 10 | Treats for Tweets - West Side
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 11 | ACT Prep Workshop - Main
9:00 am - 1:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
A good score on the ACT can help you get into the college of your choice. Professional academic coach Wendy Marty will show you techniques and tips to raise your ACT score. The workshop includes content review, reading comprehension techniques, testing tactics and specific ACT strategies. Each participant will take home a copy of Barron's ACT 2011-2012. This is a free program limited to the first 50 high school juniors and seniors who register. Must be a resident of the City of Grand Rapids and have a Grand Rapids Public Library card to participate. Call 988-5402 x 5477 or visit grpl.org/register to sign up.
Feb 11 | Basic Word Processing - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who have some experience with using the mouse, this class covers the basics of using a word processing program similar to Microsoft Word or WordPerfect. You'll learn such fundamentals as simple document formatting, saving and printing. This class is for true beginners to work processing.
Feb 11 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 11 | Treats for Tweets - Van Belkum
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 13 | Basic Internet - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and some experience with using the mouse, this class covers the basics of the Internet. After taking this class, you will feel more comfortable taking advantage of resources on the Internet.
Feb 13 | Love Letters - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
A dramatic performance of the play by A.R. Gurney
The Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama, Love Letters, by A.R. Gurney is an account of the relationship between two people who meet in second grade, eventually grow apart after college, marry others but still maintain a relationship over the years through letter writing. Performed by Gem Theatrics, this performance will touch your heart.
Feb 13 | Michigan's Reptiles and Amphibians - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The Land Conservancy of West Michigan and Nature Discovery will present information on Michigan's amphibians & reptiles. There will even be special guests in the form of reptiles and amphibians!
Feb 14 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 14 | Facebook 101 - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
A more advanced class designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet. Students in this class will be introduced to blogging sites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. These sites are the new way to communicate and share photos with friends and family.
Feb 14 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 15 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 15 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 15 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 15 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - West Leonard
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 16 | Introduccion al Internet/Email - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Los estudiantes recibirán una introducción al Internet y al World Wide Web (WWW), y obtendrán un conocimiento básico de la estructura y función del Internet. Se requiere alguna experiencia en el uso del teclado y el ratón. This class, taught completely in Spanish, will introduce students to the Internet and Email.
Feb 16 | Treats for Tweets - Madison Square
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 16 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 16 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Side
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 16 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 17 | Internet II - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and feel comfortable on the Internet, this class will teach you haw to use the Grand Rapids Public Library's website, master the online catalog, find out about search engines and databases, sharpen your searching skills, and more!
Feb 17 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 18 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 18 | Dunuya Drum and Dance - Seymour
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Dunuya Drum & Dance is a Kalamazoo-based global drumming collective that uses traditions from Africa and the African Diaspora. The group touches on traditional Garifuna songs, Middle Eastern medleys, Brazilian samba, and straight up Guinean dance music. Audience participation and interaction is encouraged. Great for all ages.
Feb 18 | Dunuya Drum and Dance - West Leonard
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Dunuya Drum & Dance is a Kalamazoo-based global drumming collective that uses traditions from Africa and the African Diaspora. The group touches on traditional Garifuna songs, Middle Eastern medleys, Brazilian samba, and straight up Guinean dance music. Audience participation and interaction is encouraged. Great for all ages.
Feb 18 | Dunuya Drum and Dance - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Dunuya Drum & Dance is a Kalamazoo-based global drumming collective that uses traditions from Africa and the African Diaspora. The group touches on traditional Garifuna songs, Middle Eastern medleys, Brazilian samba, and straight up Guinean dance music. Audience participation and interaction is encouraged. Great for all ages.
Feb 19 | Taste of Soul Sunday - Main
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Join us as we celebrate African American history and culture at the seventh annual Taste of Soul Sunday. Sample African American art, music, literature, history and food.
Feb 20 | Introduction to Library Resources - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and some experience with using the mouse, this class explores the wide-variety of electronic resources that GRPL offers. Learn about everything from research databases to the Michigan Electronic Library (MeLCat) catalog. Find out how to search using GRPL's Evergreen catalog and place holds, access books, request items through MelCat, and surf GRPLpedia, the library's wiki.
Feb 20 | GRPL Anime Club - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing Japanese Animation, or "anime" films each time we meet, along with snacks and refreshments. This month we will be viewing Emma: A Victorian Romance and Last Exile. For ages 11-18.
Feb 21 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 21 | Family Tree Maker for Beginners Part I - Main
6:45 pm - 8:45 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This two-part class will introduce students to the basics of using Family Tree Maker. Participants should bring their laptop and the Family Tree Maker Software installed. This class is useful for the 2008 through 2012 versions of the software.
Feb 21 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 22 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 22 | Ancient Greeks/Modern Lives - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Current political and economic changes make us strangers in a strange land, even though it's our home. Ancient Greek drama illustrates our own crises in leadership, compromise and community cultural values. GVSU professor Diane Rayor uses Sophocles' Antigone to illustrate the struggle between the individual and the state - and the community's response - has powerful implications today. Ancient Greeks/Modern Lives is a national program funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities that aims illustrate how Greek Drama's themes resonate today.
Feb 22 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 22 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 22 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - West Leonard
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 23 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
Feb 23 | Introduction to Email - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet, this class covers basic topics in using email with particular emphasis on free web-based email accounts. You will learn email etiquette and how to obtain an email account, sign in and sign out of your account, compose, send and reply to emails, and read attachments.
Feb 23 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 23 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Side
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 23 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 24 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 25 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 25 | Introduction to Computers - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to various aspects of personal computing. Attention will be focused on understanding the basic hardware components, operating systems, how to use the mouse, and saving files to storage devices. If you are just beginning to use computers, start with this class before trying one of our other classes.
Feb 25 | Treats for Tweets - Seymour
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 25 | Treats for Tweets - West Leonard
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 27 | Fever - Little Willie John - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
A Fast Life, Mysterious Death and the Birth of Soul
Susan Whitall and Kevin John will present through photos, videos, music and talk, a look at the life of one of the most important and influential singers to come out of Detroit in the 1950s - Little Willie John. His vocal performances combined the spiritual intensity of gospel with the swing of jazz and fever of R&B and set the stage for the soul revolution of the 1960s.
Feb 27 | Skype 101 - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Skype is a phone and videocalling service that offers free videoconferencing in real-time to an international audience. Want to connect with your relative in another state or chat with a friend overseas for free? We'll show you how to connect with this revolutionary videoconferencing service.
Feb 28 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 28 | Word Processing II & Spreadsheets - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those already familiar with the basics of word processing, the class covers more advanced formatting topics such as headers and footers, columns, tables, along with a basic overview of spreadsheets.
Feb 28 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 29 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 29 | Open Lab - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Come into the Computer Lab and practice basic computer skills and get basic computer help with word processing, spreadsheets, email, Internet, library databases and more!
Feb 29 | Up From the Bottoms - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
A Documentary Viewing and Discussion
Up from the Bottoms: The Search for the American Dream tells the story of the massive migration of African Americans for the rural south to the prosperous north during the World War II years and beyond. They left behind the legacy of slavery and segregation and set out to find the American dream. The voice of Cicely Tyson guides us through these touching, thoughtful and often funny stories as told by 15 residents of Muskegon Michigan. A discussion with the film's producers Jim and Rod Schaub will follow the screening of the film.
Feb 29 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 29 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 29 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - West Leonard
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Mar 01 | Encore Reading Club - Main
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Are you a social, inquisitive, thoughtful person who enjoys discussion and relishes the opportunity to learn? You're an Encore reader! Grand Rapids Community College's Older Learner Center has teamed up with the Grand Rapids Public Library to create a different type of book club that focuses on topics affecting today's aging society. Encore will focus on the book Longevity Rules: How to Age Well Into the Future. Topics of discussion will include intergenerational conflict, the great retirement divide, growing old or living long, and more.
Registration required. Please call 616.234.3400.
Mar 01 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 01 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 02 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Who: Van Belkum
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 03 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 05 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
Mar 05 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - West Leonard
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 07 | Ancient Greeks/Modern Lives Reading Group - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm VanderVeen Center for the Book, Level 4
GVSU Classics professor Diane Rayor will explore the theme Stranger in a Strange Land: Encountering the Other by leading a reading group over the course of four sessions.
Wednesday, March 7 - Sophocles' Antigone
Wednesday, March 14 - Herakles Gone Mad, based on Euripide's Herakles
Wednesday, March 21 - Sophocles' Ajax
Wednesday, March 28 - Aeschylus' Agamemnon
Space is limited. Sign up online at www.grpl.org/register. Readings will be provided at the first meeting.
Mar 07 | It's Tom Rademacher - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Knocking at Your Door
Sit back and relax with long-time Grand Rapids Press columnist Tom Rademacher, as he not only introduces you to some of the remarkable people he's met, but also "back-stories that reveal even more." For more than 33 years, Tom has been bringing us true tales of everyday folks both struggling and soaring. Twice he has been honored with the top award from the National Society of Newspaper Columnists. A book signing will follow his presentation.
Mar 07 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 08 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Main
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Storytime room, Level 2
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 08 | Introduccion al uso de la Computadora - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Nivel de Abajo
Este curso de nivel básico será dado en español. En este curso, los estudiantes aprenderán de los diferentes componentes de la computadora y sus funciones, y del sistema operativo Windows. Con este curso, los estudiantes se volverán familiares con la computadora. / This class, taught completely in Spanish, will introduce students to various aspects of personal computing.
Mar 08 | Teen Improv Night - Main
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Teens are invited to be a part of the show when the Improv Comedy Troupe performs at the library! Laugh at their ridiculous antics, or join them on stage as they lampoon their way through hilarious scenes, using their wit and your suggestions. Audience participation is encouraged. A great way to help kick-off LaughFest! For teens ages 11-18.
Mar 09 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Who: Van Belkum
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 10 | Basic Internet - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and some experience with using the mouse, this class covers the basics of the Internet. After taking this class, you will feel more comfortable taking advantage of resources on the Internet.
Mar 10 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Seymour
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 10 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - Van Belkum
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 10 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - West Leonard
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 10 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Yankee Clipper
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 10 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - Yankee Clipper
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 12 | Spider Spectacular at the Library! - Main
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
As part of One Book, One City for Kids, the library invites 4th, 5th and 6th graders and their families to join us for a night of food, fun and family activities. Meet the author of the 2012 One Book, One City for Kids selection Along Came Spider, James Preller and get your book signed. Enjoy Reader's Theater and participate in magnetic poetry, Mad Libs, games and more!
Mar 12 | Basic Word Processing - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who have some experience with using the mouse, this class covers the basics of using a word processing program similar to Microsoft Word or WordPerfect. You'll learn such fundamentals as simple document formatting, saving and printing. This class is for true beginners to word processing.
Mar 12 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - West Leonard
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 13 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - Main
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Level 2
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 13 | Humorous Speech Contest - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Can you tell a funny story? Do you make people laugh? Come join the Grand Rapids Public Library, Toastmasters International and LaughFest in a humor contest. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place. Contestants can choose whether they have an improvised stand up performance or a prepared 5 minute routine. Contestants must register at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 14 | Early Childhood Essentials - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Sensory Development
Have you every wondered why certain children are so sensitive to light, sound or movement? Does a child you care for have any food aversions? Have you wondered what keeps that active child craving more activity? Come explore the fascinating world of sensory differences with Kelly Keur, M.Ed. You may even learn something about yourself in the process.
Mar 14 | Ancient Greeks/Modern Lives Reading Group - Main
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm VanderVeen Center for the Book, Level 4
GVSU Classics professor Diane Rayor will explore the theme Stranger in a Strange Land: Encountering the Other by leading a reading group over the course of four sessions.
Wednesday, March 7 - Sophocles' Antigone
Wednesday, March 14 - Herakles Gone Mad, based on Euripide's Herakles
Wednesday, March 21 - Sophocles' Ajax
Wednesday, March 28 - Aeschylus' Agamemnon
Space is limited. Sign up online at www.grpl.org/register. Readings will be provided at the first meeting.
Mar 14 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 14 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - Ottawa Hills
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 15 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Main
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Storytime room, Level 2
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 15 | Community Book Discussion - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
The Warmth of Other Suns
The library is partnering with Grand Valley State University’s Community Reading Project. Read The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson and come to the library to join in the discussion.
Mar 15 | Introduccion al Internet/Email - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Los estudiantes recibirán una introducción al Internet y al World Wide Web (WWW), y obtendrán un conocimiento básico de la estructura y función del Internet. Se requiere alguna experiencia en el uso del teclado y el ratón. This class, taught completely in Spanish, will introduce students to the Internet and Email.
Mar 15 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - Madison Square
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 16 | The Hunger Games Lock-In - Main
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Want the opportunity to score some tickets to see The Hunger Games movie? How about some other amazing Hunger Games prizes. Sign up for our lock in and compete against your fellow tributes to test your archery & knot tying skills, compete in an animal hunt and show us your Hunger Games knowledge to win prizes. As in the book, there are only 24 tributes, so register early to participate in the Reaping and be assigned a District. Did we mention that pizza will be involved? For teens ages 11-18. Register at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 16 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Who: Van Belkum
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 16 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - West Side
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 17 | Introduction to Email - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet, this class covers basic topics in using email with particular emphasis on free web-based email accounts. You will learn email etiquette and how to obtain an email account, sign in and sign out of your account, compose, send and reply to emails, and read attachments.
Mar 17 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Seymour
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 17 | Don't Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing - Seymour
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mo Willems is one of the funniest and most prolific children's authors around. This program for children 7 and under will be a riotous, interactive celebration of his most popular stories and characters: Pigeon, Knufflebunny, Elephant and Piggy, and Cat the Cat. Come hear stories, do fun crafts and activities, and enter a funniest caption writing contest. Prizes will be awarded to each library's most amusing young author!
Mar 17 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Yankee Clipper
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 19 | GRPL Anime Club - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing Japanese Animation, or "anime" films each time we meet, along with snacks and refreshments. This month we will be viewing Code Geass and Angel Beats! For ages 11-18.
Mar 19 | Job Hunting 101 - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This class is designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet. Learn the basics of how to search and apply for jobs online, including how to create an online resume, search for jobs online using job search engines, and the basics of filling out online job applications.
Mar 19 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - West Leonard
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 20 | Introduction to Computers - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to various aspects of personal computing. Attention will be focused on understanding the basic hardware components, operating systems, how to use the mouse, and saving files to storage devices. If you are just beginning to use computers, start with this class before trying one of our other classes.
Mar 20 | Ask-the-Lawyer - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Ask-the-Lawyer: Tenants' Rights (Landlord Tenant Disputes)
Stop in for free legal tips! The Grand Rapids Public Library and the Grand Rapids Bar Association have partnered to offer free legal advice in a series of five sessions throughout the year. Every other month, expert attorneys volunteer to provide Grand Rapids citizens with answers to legal questions. A 10-minute overview of the featured area of law will be followed by an interactive question and answer period. This month the topic is Tenants' Rights (Landlord Tenant Disputes).
Mar 21 | Ancient Greeks/Modern Lives Reading Group - Main
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm VanderVeen Center for the Book, Level 4
GVSU Classics professor Diane Rayor will explore the theme Stranger in a Strange Land: Encountering the Other by leading a reading group over the course of four sessions.
Wednesday, March 7 - Sophocles' Antigone
Wednesday, March 14 - Herakles Gone Mad, based on Euripide's Herakles
Wednesday, March 21 - Sophocles' Ajax
Wednesday, March 28 - Aeschylus' Agamemnon
Space is limited. Sign up online at www.grpl.org/register. Readings will be provided at the first meeting.
Mar 21 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 22 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
Mar 22 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Main
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Storytime room, Level 2
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 22 | Family Tree Maker for Beginners Part II - Main
6:45 pm - 8:45 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This two-part class will introduce students to the basics of using Family Tree Maker. Participants should bring their laptop and the Family Tree Maker Software installed. This class is useful for the 2008 through 2012 versions of the software.
Mar 23 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Who: Van Belkum
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Mar 24 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Seymour
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 24 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Yankee Clipper
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 24 | Early Childhood Essentials - Yankee Clipper
12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Who: Yankee Clipper
How Children Learn to Read
Jennifer McGraw of Pyramid Montessori will explore the methodology behind how children learn to read. Free and open to the public.
Mar 26 | Facebook 101 - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
A more advanced class designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet. Students in this class will be introduced to blogging sites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. These sites are the new way to communicate and share photos with friends and family.
Mar 26 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - West Leonard
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 27 | Skype 101 - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Skype is a phone and videocalling service that offers free videoconferencing in real-time to an international audience. Want to connect with your relative in another state or chat with a friend overseas for free? We'll show you how to connect with this revolutionary service.
Mar 28 | Ancient Greeks/Modern Lives Reading Group - Main
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm VanderVeen Center for the Book, Level 4
GVSU Classics professor Diane Rayor will explore the theme Stranger in a Strange Land: Encountering the Other by leading a reading group over the course of four sessions.
Wednesday, March 7 - Sophocles' Antigone
Wednesday, March 14 - Herakles Gone Mad, based on Euripide's Herakles
Wednesday, March 21 - Sophocles' Ajax
Wednesday, March 28 - Aeschylus' Agamemnon
Space is limited. Sign up online at www.grpl.org/register. Readings will be provided at the first meeting.
Mar 28 | Internet II - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and feel comfortable on the Internet, this class will teach you haw to use the Grand Rapids Public Library's website, master the online catalog, find out about search engines and databases, sharpen your searching skills, and more!
Mar 29 | Google Essentials - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
An advanced class designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the internet, this class is designed to provide students with an introduction to some of the tools and applications offered by Google. Attention will be given to Gmail, Google Calendars, Google Docs, Google Maps and more!
Mar 29 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Main
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Storytime room, Level 2
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 31 | Open Lab - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Come into the Computer Lab and practice basic computer skills and get basic computer help with word processing, spreadsheets, email, Internet, library databases and more!
Mar 31 | Exploring Michigan - Main
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Hiking, Canoeing, Wandering
In this three-hour event, three different authors will explore various ways to experience Michigan. Loreen Niewenhuis will discuss her book A 1,000-Mile Walk on the Beach. Jim DuFresne will share his book The Adventurous Traveler: Exploring the Best of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Doc Fletcher will talk about Paddling Michigan's Hidden Beauty.
Mar 31 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Seymour
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Mar 31 | Read to a Therapy Dog! - Yankee Clipper
10:00 am - 11:00 am
March is Reading Month! Sign Up to Read to a Therapy Dog!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide an encouraging and non-judgmental environment for children to develop confidence in reading. The program is for independent readers of any age and is recommended for children who need to develop confidence in reading aloud or for English as a second language learners. Children are encouraged to come every week at the same time for four weeks. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Apr 05 | Encore Reading Club - Main
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Are you a social, inquisitive, thoughtful person who enjoys discussion and relishes the opportunity to learn? You're an Encore reader! Grand Rapids Community College's Older Learner Center has teamed up with the Grand Rapids Public Library to create a different type of book club that focuses on topics affecting today's aging society. Encore will focus on the book Longevity Rules: How to Age Well Into the Future. Topics of discussion will include intergenerational conflict, the great retirement divide, growing old or living long, and more.
Registration required. Please call 616.234.3400.
Apr 18 | Ancient Greeks/Modern Lives - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Readings from Homer's Odyssey, Sophocles' Ajax, Euripides' Herakles, Aeschylus' Agamemnon.Professional actors perform readings from classic Greek dramas. The theme Stranger in a Strange Land: Encountering the Other applies to contemporary issues such as immigration, leadership, returning veterans, and culture clash. After the performance, GVSU Classics professor Diane Raynor will invite the audience to relate the dramas to modern issues and their own experiences.
May 03 | Encore Reading Club - Main
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Are you a social, inquisitive, thoughtful person who enjoys discussion and relishes the opportunity to learn? You're an Encore reader! Grand Rapids Community College's Older Learner Center has teamed up with the Grand Rapids Public Library to create a different type of book club that focuses on topics affecting today's aging society. Encore will focus on the book Longevity Rules: How to Age Well Into the Future. Topics of discussion will include intergenerational conflict, the great retirement divide, growing old or living long, and more.
Registration required. Please call 616.234.3400.
Jun 07 | Encore Reading Club - Main
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Are you a social, inquisitive, thoughtful person who enjoys discussion and relishes the opportunity to learn? You're an Encore reader! Grand Rapids Community College's Older Learner Center has teamed up with the Grand Rapids Public Library to create a different type of book club that focuses on topics affecting today's aging society. Encore will focus on the book Longevity Rules: How to Age Well Into the Future. Topics of discussion will include intergenerational conflict, the great retirement divide, growing old or living long, and more.
Registration required. Please call 616.234.3400.
Jan 31 | Open Lab - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Come into the Computer Lab and practice basic computer skills and get basic computer help with word processing, spreadsheets, email, Internet, library databases and more!
Feb 01 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 01 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 01 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 01 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - West Leonard
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 02 | Encore Reading Club - Main
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Replaces event originally scheduled for: Thu Feb 2, 2012 1pm
Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Are you a social, inquisitive, thoughtful person who enjoys discussion and relishes the opportunity to learn? You're an Encore reader! Grand Rapids Community College's Older Learner Center has teamed up with the Grand Rapids Public Library to create a different type of book club that focuses on topics affecting today's aging society. Encore will focus on the book Longevity Rules: How to Age Well Into the Future. Topics of discussion will include intergenerational conflict, the great retirement divide, growing old or living long, and more.
Registration required. Please call 616.234.3400.
Feb 02 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 02 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Side
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 02 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 03 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Van Belkum
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 04 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 04 | eBooks 101 - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
EBooks (electronic books) are a fast and convenient way to read. GRPL's eBook lending service is highlighted in this class, covering the steps to install software and download eBooks to your computer, smartphone or device.
Feb 06 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
Feb 06 | Treats for Tweets - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 07 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 07 | Introduction to Computers - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This basic course is designed to provide students with an introduction to various aspects of personal computing. Learn the basic hardware components, operating systems, how to use the mouse and saving files to storage devices. If you are just beginning to use computers, start with this class before trying one of our other classes.
Feb 07 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.
Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Ottawa Hills
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity.
Feb 08 | Treats for Tweets - Ottawa Hills
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Kids 10 and under can come to the library and learn about the birds in your backyard. Make a birdfeeder out of a pine cone to take home and feed your feathered friends.
Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Feb 08 | Pre-Reading Classes for Toddlers - West Leonard
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their energetic toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to 30-minute classes featuring hands-on, literacy-rich activities including stories, songs with fingerplays and other action, and sign language. Toddlers will develop pre-reading skills as they make connections between words and movement and have fun with related crafts and socialize during playtime.