Mar 20 | Job Hunting 101 - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center
This class is designed for those who already have working knowledge of computers and the Internet. Students will 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 fill out online job applications.
Mar 20 | Teen Cuisine - Main
11:30 am - 12:30 pm Storytime Room, Level 2
Author and chef Kathleen Hanna will help teens ages 13-18 create tasty, healthy meals and snacks. This program is limited to 9 teens per location.
Mar 20 | Teen Screens: The Twilight Saga - New Moon - Main
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Are you Team Edward or Team Jacob? Teens are invited to attend a screening of the blockbuster movie The Twilight Saga: New Moon. Bring a friend or your favorite sparkly vampire or hunky werewolf and see New Moon on the big screen. Pop and popcorn provided.
Mar 20 | Dr. Seuss is on the Loose! - Yankee Clipper
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Kids 10 and under will love this whimsical celebration of everyone's favorite author. There will be stories, crafts and other fun activities.
Mar 20 | Teen Cuisine - Yankee Clipper
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Author and chef Kathleen Hanna will help teens ages 13-18 create tasty, healthy meals and snacks. This program is limited to 9 teens per location.
Mar 22 | Money Smart Mondays: Basics of Banking and Saving - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
An overview of banking services taught by area experts. Learn about the different types of checking and savings accounts, how to select a financial institution, and how to start saving.
Mar 23 | Teen Book Discussion Group - Main
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Storytime Room, Level 2
Teens ages 11-18 can come and discuss books they love. Come prepared to talk about the selected book and pick up a copy of next month's book to read. This month we will be discussion A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly.
Mar 24 | Basic Internet - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This class is designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and some experience with using the mouse. It covers the basics of the Internet and gives participants a better understanding of this technology. After taking this class, you'll feel more comfortable taking advantage of online resources.
Mar 24 | Sojourner Truth in Michigan - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Already a recognized speaker on the antislavery, civil rights and woman's rights circuits, Sojourner Truth (1797-1886) relocated to Michigan in 1857. Augmenting her reputation as a "doer of the Word" in Michigan during the Civil War, Reconstruction and its aftermath, Sojourner Truth was hailed in her own time as a "national landmark." She dedicated her life to "making the world better" and so captured the American imagination that her true-to-life deeds often compete with myth. Cornell university professor Margaret Washington will highlight Sojourner Truth's life and activities as one of Michigan's most famous citizens.
Mar 25 | Get a Clue with Nancy Drew - Main
5:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Nancy Drew has been on the case since the 1930s. How has she changed through the years? Is Carolyn Keene really the author of the books? Solve these mysteries and test your knowledge of Nancy Drew with games, activities and a craft. A screening of the film Nancy Drew will take place at 6:30 pm. For ages 8 and up.
Mar 27 | Internet II: Beyond the Basics - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This class is designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and feel comfortable on the Internet. Find out about search engines and databases, sharpen searching skills and much, much more!
Mar 27 | Family Flix: Astro Boy - Main
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Families can come and watch the blockbuster film Astro Boy on the big screen. Bring your pillow and favorite stuffed animal and enjoy the movie. Pop and popcorn provided.
Mar 27 | Go Fish! - Yankee Clipper
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Find out how to get hooked on fishing during this fun and interactive family friendly program. Discover what fish you might catch in Michigan's lakes, rivers and streams and how the Department of Natural Resources raises millions of fish every year to provide fishing opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Participants in this program will take part in a variety of hands-on activities and learn how easy, fun and economical it is to get outside and get fishing!
Mar 29 | Money Smart Mondays: Understanding Credit Reports - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Learn how to get a free credit report and how to analyze it. Get tips from experts on how to improve your credit score, the best way to use a credit card, and how to establish or rebuild credit.
Mar 30 | Basic Word Processing - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who have some experience with using the mouse and keyboard typing, this class covers the basics of using a word processing program similar to Microsoft Word or WordPerfect. You'll learn such fundamentals as document formatting, saving and printing. For true beginners of word processing.
Mar 30 | Teen Screens: Sherlock Holmes - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Teens ages 11-18 can come watch Sherlock Holmes on the big screen. Popcorn and pop provided.
Apr 01 | Judy Chicago and Contemporary Art - Main
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Suzanne Eberle, Professor of Art History at Kendall College of Art and Design will introduce participants to the fascinating art of Judy Chicago, whose monumental work "The Dinner Party" remains one of the most important examples of early contemporary art. In addition to exploring the subjects and processes of Chicago's work, you will also see how her ideas reflect late 20th century art practices such as historical referencing, collaborative production and feminist theory.
Apr 01 | Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun! - Ottawa Hills
4:00 pm - 4:30 pm
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Apr 01 | Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun! - West Side
5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Apr 03 | Small Business Research Essentials - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Join the Business Librarian for an informative journey through the Library's small business resources. We will cover topics such as where to find business plan outlines and samples, and the most useful sources for competitor and customer information.
Apr 03 | Trendy T-shirt Makeovers - Main
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Storytime Room, Level 2
Teens in grades 6-12 can make an old t-shirt into a fabulous new design like a bag or pillow.
Apr 05 | Money Smart Mondays: Controlling Debt and Bankruptcy - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Learn how to accomplish your financial goals by making your debt work for you. Discover if bankruptcy is an option and what options you have to become financially stable.
Apr 05 | An Evening with Judy Chicago - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Celebration Cinema North, 2121 Celebration Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525-9587
Artist Judy Chicago will discuss her long career and show highlights of her work from different projects, series and periods, culminating in a discussion about her most recent work in glass. Sponsored by the West Michigan Women's Studies Council. Free and open to the public.
Apr 05 | Trendy T-shirt Makeovers - Seymour
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Teens in grades 6-12 can make an old t-shirt into a fabulous new design like a bag or pillow.
Apr 06 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - Main
10:30 am - 11:00 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 06 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - West Side
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 06 | Trendy T-shirt Makeovers - Yankee Clipper
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Who: Yankee Clipper
Teens in grades 6-12 can make an old t-shirt into a fabulous new design like a bag or pillow.
Apr 07 | 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. The class will focus 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, take this class first before trying any of our other classes.
Apr 07 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 07 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - Van Belkum
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 08 | Junior History Detectives - Main
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Kids ages 9-12 can help solve some of history's mysteries. First, Gina Bivens with the Public Museum will present "Look, Listen, Touch, Smell: Using Your Senses to become a History Detective." Then Kevin Finney, Director of the Great Lakes Lifeways Institute will discuss "Bark Houses and Cattail Mats: Adventures in Building Native American Shelters." Both are hands-on experiences.
Apr 08 | Social Networking: Beyond the Basics - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet, students will be introduced to blogging sites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. These sites are the new way to communicate and share photos and more with family and friends.
Apr 08 | Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun! - Madison Square
5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Apr 08 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - West Leonard
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 08 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - Yankee Clipper
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 09 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - Madison Square
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 09 | Spring Break Fun with Geodes - Ottawa Hills
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under.
Apr 10 | Teen Advisory Group - Main
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Storytime Room, Level 2
These monthly meetings gives teens the opportunity to give input on developing library programs and services. Teens will get volunteer hours for participating and free food at the meetings.
Apr 10 | Trendy T-shirt Makeovers - West Leonard
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Teens in grades 6-12 can make an old t-shirt into a fabulous new design like a bag or pillow.
Apr 11 | Family Flix: The Tale of Despereaux - Main
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Families can come and watch the blockbuster film The Tale of Despereaux on the big screen. Bring your pillow and favorite stuffed animal and enjoy the movie. Pop and popcorn provided.
Apr 12 | Money Smart Mondays: 401ks, Retirement and Investing - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Join area experts as they explain the different types of investing for retirement, how to make sure you have enough money to retire, and more.
Apr 13 | Basic Internet - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This class is designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and some experience with using the mouse. It covers the basics of the Internet and gives participants a better understanding of this technology. After taking this class, you'll feel more comfortable taking advantage of online resources.
Apr 13 | Babytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Babytime designed especially for babies (0 to 18 months) and their caregivers.
Apr 13 | New Poetry from Three Local Poets - Main
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Three local poets, Patricia Clarke, Linda Nemec Foster and Robert Vander Molen, share their recent work in an evening for poetry lovers.
Apr 13 | Family Storytimes - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 14 | Toddlertimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Toddlertime for children 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers.
Apr 14 | Google Essentials - 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 the Internet, students will be introduced to some of the tools and applications offered by Google. Attention will be given to gmail, google calendars, google docs, google maps and more!
Apr 15 | Family Storytimes - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 15 | Family Storytimes - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 16 | Genealogy Lock-In - Main
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Level 4
Come to the Grand Rapids History and Special Collections department for a free after-hours program just for genealogists! Learn how to use the microfilm reader/scanner/printer, save images, and take advantage of free copying and printing during the event. Use the time to search databases - we will have plenty of computers available or bring your own laptop and use the Library's WiFi network. Bring your genealogy questions or Ancestry and Heritage Quest problems - volunteers will be on hand to assist. Network with other genealogists - you never know what you might find! Registration is required.
Apr 17 | Grantseeking Basics - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for beginning fundraisers, this brief course shows how your organization can identify potential funders and prepare to seek grants. Using the Foundation Directory Online Platinum, a database of 70,000 foundations, participants will compile a list of foundation prospects that match their organization's needs. We'll also briefly touch upon other grant sources, such as government and business, and learn about various guides to proposal writing.
Apr 17 | Earth Week Movies - Main
11:00 am - 3:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Join us for two critically acclaimed films that explore various aspects of our environment. At 11:00 am, Food, Inc. and at 1:00 pm The Cove.
Apr 17 | Family Storytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 17 | Introduction to Slide Presentations - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers, students in this class will learn how to create slide show presentations that can be used for business or personal use. Students will learn how to create slide shows in programs like PowerPoint complete with text, graphics, pictures and animation.
Apr 17 | Teen Cuisine - Seymour
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Author and chef Kathleen Hanna will help teens ages 13-18 create tasty, healthy meals and snacks. This program is limited to 9 teens per location.
Apr 17 | Farmers' and Artists' Market - West Leonard
10:00 am - 3:00 pm West Leonard parking lot
Kick off our Earth Week celebration by visiting our market. Over 20 local farmers and artists will transform the parking lot into a bustling market. Farmers will be selling a variety of local and often free-range and chemical-free goods like maple syrup, honey, cheese, potatoes, greenhouse greens, and meat. Local artists will be selling handmade items like pottery, clothes, jewelry, soap, purses, crafts and more.
Apr 17 | Teen Cuisine - West Leonard
11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Author and chef Kathleen Hanna will help teens ages 13-18 create tasty, healthy meals and snacks. This program is limited to 9 teens per location.
Apr 19 | Bike Safety and Basic Repair - Main
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Daniel Koert, creator of the Wednesday Evening Rides and owner of the Commute Bike Shop, will demonstrate how to be safe while riding our bikes around Grand Rapids and how to save money by doing our own basic bike repair.
Apr 19 | Money Smart Mondays: Insurance – Getting Covered - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Personal insurance includes life, health, homeowners/renters, and auto. Learn what coverage you need to lower your possible risk and basic information on each type of insurance.
Apr 19 | Recycled Journals - Seymour
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
This workshop will turn old books into treasure. Join local crafter Gerald "Butch" Cash as he helps you transform an old beat up book into a useful notebook, journal, or sketchbook. Bring a book of your own, or choose from one of ours.
Apr 20 | Babytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Babytime designed especially for babies (0 to 18 months) and their caregivers.
Apr 20 | Teen Book Discussion Group - Main
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Storytime Room, Level 2
Teens ages 11-18 can come and discuss books they love. Come prepared to talk about the selected book and pick up a copy of next month's book to read. This month we will be discussion The Tomorrow Code by Brian Falkner.
Apr 20 | Internet II: Beyond the Basics - Main
6:30 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 feel comfortable on the Internet. Find out about search engines and databases, sharpen searching skills, and more.
Apr 20 | Rain Barrel Construction Party - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
The West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), will have everything you need to assemble your very own rain barrel. Rain barrels collect stormwater that is not soak into the ground. When stormwater runs through our community, it becomes dirty and polluted. It washed animal waste, garbage, fertilizers, chemicals, gas and oil from cars into our storm sewers. This pollution then flows into our streams, rivers and lakes.
Apr 20 | Family Storytimes - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 21 | Toddlertimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Toddlertime for children 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers.
Apr 21 | Scientists are the New Rockstars - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
What happens when creative tinkering goes collective? Scott Beibin has his eye on today's garage scientists, and the rise of maker culture within the DIY movement. As it gets easier and cheaper to prototype new things, a new generation of tinkerers and experimenters are creating new things that are beneficial to all – as art, design, sustainable technologies. Hear more about Scott's experiments in ars technica (the art of technology) during this live multimedia spectacle exploring the fuzzy and quirky lines between hard science, social science, and metaphysics with hands-on examples of environmentally sustainable art and technologies.
Apr 21 | Container Gardening - Seymour
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Container gardening makes gardening possible for anyone who has access to a bit of sunshine. Members of the Heartside Gardeners will help you create a container garden - great for those without yards! Participants will leave with a bucket of Snap Peas or Potato seedlings.
Apr 22 | 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 will cover basic topics in using email with particular emphasis on free 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 open attachments.
Apr 22 | Pandora's Locks - Main
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
"How the St. Lawrence Seaway and Ocean Freighters Ruined the Great Lakes"
Michigan Notable Author Jeff Alexander will discuss his theory of how opening the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959 and allowing ocean freighters into the Great Lakes, accidentally unleashed an environmental disaster that will cause more damage than the Exxon Valdez oil spill. The Seaway was built to link Great Lakes shipping ports to ports around the world. The intent was to increase international commerce in the region. The Seaway did achieve that, but there would be a high price to pay. Alexander will explain how foreign species that ocean freighters carries into the lakes in ballast water tanks are wreaking havoc on the Great Lakes, how this could have been prevented and why it wasn't.
Apr 22 | Family Storytimes - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 22 | Family Storytimes - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 24 | Looks Better on You Clothing Swap - Main
10:00 am - 3:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Have a closet full of clothes? Too many shoes, bags, and other accessories to wear in your lifetime? Need something new? Bring your gently used items you no longer need to the Library for someone else and take what will look better on you from the original owner. This program will help you save money and the environment! Baby clothes to adult clothes welcome.
Apr 24 | Container Gardening - Main
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Container gardening makes gardening possible for anyone who has access to a bit of sunshine. Members of the Heartside Gardeners will help you create a container garden - great for those without yards! Participants will leave with a bucket of Snap Peas or Potato seedlings.
Apr 24 | Family Storytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 24 | Recycled Journals - Main
12:30 pm - 2:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
This workshop will turn old books into treasure. Join local crafter Gerald "Butch" Cash as he helps you transform an old beat up book into a useful notebook, journal, or sketchbook. Bring a book of your own, or choose from one of ours.
Apr 24 | Green Clean - Main
2:30 pm - 4:00 pm Quiet Study Room, Lower Level
Are you interested in making the switch to green cleaning in your home but are overwhelmed by the prices and variety of products out there? Do you wonder if green cleaning actually works? Green Earth Cleaning owners Becky VanDyke and Cassandra Hagedorn will demonstrate how easy, economical, and effective it is to make and use your own green cleaning products.
Apr 24 | Rain Barrel Construction Party - Yankee Clipper
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
The West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), will have everything you need to assemble your very own rain barrel. Rain barrels collect stormwater that is not soak into the ground. When stormwater runs through our community, it becomes dirty and polluted. It washed animal waste, garbage, fertilizers, chemicals, gas and oil from cars into our storm sewers. This pollution then flows into our streams, rivers and lakes.
Apr 26 | GRPL Anime Club - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing one Japanese Animation, or "anime" film each time we meet, along with enjoying refreshments. This month we will be watching the movie Ponyo. For ages 11-18.
Apr 26 | Monday Smart Mondays: Mortgage Refinancing and Handling Foreclosure - Main
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
What options do you have when facing possible foreclosure? Learn more about refinancing your mortgage and ways to avoid foreclosure.
Apr 27 | 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 and keyboard typing, this class covers the basics of using a word processing program similar to Microsoft Word or WordPerfect. You'll learn such fundamentals as document formatting, saving and printing. For true beginners of word processing.
Apr 27 | Babytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Babytime designed especially for babies (0 to 18 months) and their caregivers.
Apr 27 | Family Storytimes - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 28 | Toddlertimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Toddlertime for children 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers.
Apr 29 | Family Storytimes - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Apr 29 | Family Storytimes - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
May 01 | Introducción al Internet/Email - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 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.
May 01 | Family Storytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
May 04 | Babytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Babytime designed especially for babies (0 to 18 months) and their caregivers.
May 04 | Family Storytimes - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
May 05 | Toddlertimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Toddlertime for children 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers.
May 05 | Introducción al uso de la Computadora - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
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.
May 05 | Michigan's Economic Transformation - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
The relative shrinkage of manufacturing has forced Michigan into a long and difficult structural transformation. Since the summer of 2000, Michigan has lost more than 800,000 jobs, which is more than one of every six jobs that we had at the beginning of the slide. The people of Michigan can have a much brighter economic future, but the potential will only be fulfilled if we make changes. MSU Economics Professor Charles Ballard will discuss the changes that must be made to attain a better economic future. To educate our children for the economy of tomorrow, we must make investments today. It is difficult to do so, because the State has a chronic, structural budget deficit. Spending reforms and tax reforms that can address the deficit will be discussed.
May 06 | Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun! - Ottawa Hills
4:00 pm - 4:30 pm
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
May 06 | Family Storytimes - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
May 06 | Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun! - West Side
5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
May 06 | Family Storytimes - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
May 08 | Grantseeking Basics - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for beginning fundraisers, this brief course shows how your organization can identify potential funders and prepare to seek grants. Using the Foundation Directory Online Platinum, a database of 70,000 foundations, participants will compile a list of foundation prospects that match their organization's needs. We'll also briefly touch upon other grant sources, such as government and business, and learn about various guides to proposal writing.
May 08 | Family Storytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
May 10 | Word Processing II & Spreadsheets - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those already familiar with the basics of word processing, this class covers more advanced formatting topics such as headers and footers, columns, tables, along with a basic overview of spreadsheets.
May 12 | Standing Naked in the Stream: Isle Royale Stories - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Standing Naked in the Stream: Isle Royale Stories
For close to thirty years, Vic Foerster has visited Isle Royale with family and friends. His passion for the natural world and for all things "Isle Royale" is contagious and conveyed through his book, Naked in the Stream: Isle Royale Stories.
May 13 | Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun! - Madison Square
5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
May 15 | Google Essentials - 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, students will be introduced to some of the tools and applications offered by Google. Attention will be given to gmail, google calendars, google docs, google maps and more!
May 17 | Introduction to Slide Presentations - Main
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers, students in this class will learn how to create slide show presentations that can be used for business or personal use. Students will learn how to create slide shows in programs like PowerPoint complete with text, graphics, pictures and animation.
May 18 | Introducción al Internet/Email - Main
6:30 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.
May 19 | Who We Are: Exploring Family Secrets with Steve Luxenberg - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Steve Luxenberg, a Washington Post associate editor, has worked for more than 30 years as a newspaper editor and reporter. His book, Annie's Ghost: A Journey Into a Family Secret was named a 2010 Michigan Notable Book. The book is part detective story, part social history, part memoir revolves around his mother's decision to hide the existence of a disabled sister, Annie. Employing his skills as a journalist while struggling to maintain his empathy as a son, Luxenberg pieces together the story of his mother's motivations, his aunt's unknown life and the times in which the two women lived. His search takes him to imperial Russia and Depression-era Detroit, through the Holocaust in Ukraine and the Philippine war zone, and back to the large mental institution where Annie and many others were lost to memory.
May 24 | Introduction to Computers - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to various aspects of personal computing. The class will focus 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, take this class first before trying any of our other classes.
May 26 | Basic Internet - Main
6:30 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 some experience with using the mouse. It covers the basics of the Internet and gives participants a better understanding of this technology. After taking this class, you'll feel more comfortable taking advantage of online resources.
May 27 | 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 will cover basic topics in using email with particular emphasis on free 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 open attachments.
Mar 01 | Cirque Du Freak DVD Release Party - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Teens ages 11-18 can come watch Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant on the big screen. Popcorn and pop provided.
Mar 02 | 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 will cover basic topics in using email with particular emphasis on free 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 open attachments.
Mar 02 | Babytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Babytime designed especially for babies (0 to 18 months) and their caregivers.
Mar 02 | Family Storytimes - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 03 | Toddlertimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Toddlertime for children 18 months to 3 years old and their caregivers.
Mar 03 | Family Storytimes - Madison Square
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 03 | Family Storytimes - Ottawa Hills
6:45 pm - 7:15 pm
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 03 | Babytimes - West Leonard
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Babytime designed especially for babies (0 to 18 months) and their caregivers.
Mar 03 | Family Storytimes - West Side
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 03 | Babytimes - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Babytime designed especially for babies (0 to 18 months) and their caregivers.
Mar 04 | Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun! - Ottawa Hills
5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Mar 04 | Family Storytimes - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 04 | Family Storytimes - Yankee Clipper
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 05 | Family Storytimes - Van Belkum
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 06 | Legacy Landmarks: Walking with Women Who Left their Mark on Grand Rapids - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Marcella Beck of the Grand Rapids Public Library’s local history department will introduce a new self-guided walking tour of downtown sites significant in Grand Rapids women’s history. Learn about some of the women featured in the tour, and then take a guided walking tour.
Mar 06 | Family Storytimes - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us each week for stories, songs and play activities!
Mar 06 | Dr. Seuss is on the Loose! - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Kids 10 and under will love this whimsical celebration of everyone's favorite author. There will be stories, crafts and other fun activities.
Mar 06 | Dr. Seuss is on the Loose! - West Leonard
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Kids 10 and under will love this whimsical celebration of everyone's favorite author. There will be stories, crafts and other fun activities.
Mar 08 | Money Smart Mondays: Financial Literacy Resource Fair - Main
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
This kickoff to an 8-week financial literacy series connects community resources, services, and organizations to people with financial questions. A keynote will speak at 6:00 pm. Free and open to the public.
Mar 10 | Word Processing II & Spreadsheets - Main
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those already familiar with the basics of word processing, this class covers more advanced formatting topics such as headers and footers, columns, tables, along with a basic overview of spreadsheets.
Mar 10 | Base Ten: Giving Voice to Women and Science - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Base Ten, the first novel in the Women Writing Science Series published by The Feminist Press and the National Science Foundation, combines author Maryann Lesert’s love of the night sky with in-depth research into the challenges faced by women of science. Lesert will discuss how her central characters, Jillian and Kera, and several real-life women of science bring women’s way of knowing into the study of the universe, often shaking up and challenging traditions along the way.