The North Manchester Public Library offers a great mix of in-person and online programming! We provide a range of programming for small children to senior citizens (and everyone in between). Take a look at our calendar to see the literary, culinary, artistic, cultural, and educational activities we have going on each month!
Virtual programs can be accessed live on Facebook or Zoom. Recordings are permanently available on the Library's Facebook page.
Take home kits for many programs are available for free at the front desk and enrich the virtual experience. Attending in person? Supplies for the various activities are made available at each of our in-house programs.
We look forward to getting to know you as we explore the world around us!
Virtual programs can be accessed live on Facebook or Zoom. Recordings are permanently available on the Library's Facebook page.
Take home kits for many programs are available for free at the front desk and enrich the virtual experience. Attending in person? Supplies for the various activities are made available at each of our in-house programs.
We look forward to getting to know you as we explore the world around us!
REGULARLY SCHEDULED IN PERSON & ONLINE PROGRAMS
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SILENT BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, December 18th @ 6pm; Wednesday, January 8th @ 6pm; Wednesday, January 22nd @ 6pm Looking to find a community of fellow readers, but intimidated by traditional book clubs? Put down your phone, pick up a book, and spend quality time with fellow book lovers – no homework or chit chat required! Bring the book (and hot beverage) of your choice to the library for a quiet hour of reading in peace. (You can also choose a book from the library shelves!) We’ll have cozy blankets and comfortable seating for all attendees. Colored lanyards will be available for participants to wear, to help indicate who is down for some book chit chat and who is not. (Red lanyards = Please let me read in silence; Green lanyards = Let’s talk a little bit.) Known as the introvert’s happy hour, NMPL’s Silent Book Club is the perfect place to retreat with your book for a designated hour of reading. This is the perfect activity for those whose social battery is low, but who still want company. Readers and introverts unite! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None |
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KNITTING & CROCHET GROUP
Every Friday @ 3:00pm Whether you are new to knitting and crochet, or have been enjoying this relaxing craft for years, you'll love our weekly Knitting & Crochet Group here at the library! Come join others in the NMPL Conference Room on Friday afternoons for a relaxing time to work on your current craft projects and to meet new friends! Beginner and eager to learn? You'll find a helpful teacher here! Beginners should bring a pair of needles (size 6 to 9), and a skein of light colored, worsted weight yarn. Worsted weight yarn is also labeled 4. Light colors are recommended as it is easier to see individual stitches with the light color. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration? None Location: NMPL Conference Room |
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QUILTING & CRAFTING CLUB
Friday, December 20th from 10am to 4pm; Friday, January 17th from 10am to 4pm; Friday, January 31st from 10am to 4pm If you love crafting, and enjoy gatherings of other creative minds to work on projects together, this club is for you! Gather your current projects, and head to the library to meet up, have a laugh, and share crafting tips and skills in a relaxing environment. All skill levels, mediums, and crafters are welcome! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration? None Location: NMPL Blocher Room |
SPECIAL IN PERSON & ONLINE PROGRAMS
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READING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND: WINTER READING
Saturday, December 14th through Friday, February 14th "Sleigh bells ring, are you listening, In the lane, snow is glistening A beautiful sight, We're happy tonight, Reading in a winter wonderland." The North Manchester Public Library’s Winter Reading Program is back! We're snuggling up with a warm drink and an good book and letting the magic of winter reading bring joy and excitement to our days! Winter Reading: Reading in a Winter Wonderland is open to children, teens, and adults. The Winter Reading Program begins December 14th and ends February 14th. Participants can register and track reading on the free Beanstack app (found in the app store on any smart device) or by using the Beanstack laptops at the library’s circulation desks. Each hour of reading logged earns 2 tickets. Tickets are entered in drawings for a wide variety of fabulous prizes donated by local businesses. NMPL is also excited to announce the return of the collaborative Paint by Sticker poster at the library! As readers log hours, they’ll earn stickers to add to the poster. The image starts as a mystery and it builds as everyone adds stickers to create a surprising masterpiece. Winter Readers are encouraged to read titles of their own interests in their preferred format at their own pace. Readers can even count books they read to others! HOW TO SIGN UP: Once the reading program begins, participants can sign up via the FREE Beanstack app. Be sure you've got the Beanstack app downloaded on your phone beforehand, so you'll be ready to go! If You Are Signing Up On Your Smart Device: Download the Beanstack Tracker app from your app store. Simply search for North Manchester Public Library then follow the sign in steps to begin! You can sign up yourself or your family members. Once Winter Reading starts, the Reading in a Winter Wonderland program will appear on your app home page. If You Are Signing Up On Your Desktop: On December 14th, visit the NMPL Beanstack Website (https://nman.beanstack.org/reader365) and simply follow the sign in steps to begin! You can sign up yourself or your family members. Once Winter Reading starts, the Reading in a Winter Wonderland program will appear on your app home page. We can't wait to spend the winter reading with you! |
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OPEN MAKERSPACE
Thursday, December 26th from 2pm to 4pm During Open Makerspace hours, you are invited to unlock a world full of crafts, games, and creativity! Play games on the Wii or challenge someone to a game of air hockey. Get creative with Perler bead crafts, coloring, or even scrapbooking. Grab your friends, family, or come solo and join us - all ages are welcome! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None. Registration: No Location: NMPL Makerspace |
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UGLY SWEATER BINGO
Thursday, January 2nd @ 2pm Wait! Don’t pack up those Ugly Christmas Sweaters yet! We have another event for you and it’s going to be a good one! Come to the library wearing your ugliest sweater and enjoy an hour of Bingo with friends. Enjoy special challenges like Four Corners and Postage Stamp, along with your typical BINGOs! We’ve got lots of prizes for all ages and will be awarding special medals to the ugliest sweaters. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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FELTING CLASS: START-TO-FINISH SNOWMEN
Saturday, January 4th from 1pm-4pm For the first time ever at NMPL we’re offering a start-to-finish, from base-to-completion felting class! Taught by Rachel Kruger of Kruger Krafts, this class will provide expert instruction so that participants can create their own snowman bases, and then add wool layers to decorate, customize, and bring to life their own snowmen creations. Felting requires no sewing, knitting, or crocheting skills, so this is a fantastic opportunity for creatives of all skill levels. Class size is limited, so be sure to come to the library to register right away! Program Cost: $30 Program Age Requirement: 16+ Registration: Yes, sign up at the front desk Location: Blocher Community Room |
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ADVANCED PREVIEW SCREENING: ALL CREATURES GREAT & SMALL (SEASON 5)
Monday, January 6th @ 6pm Join us for a FREE preview screening of the first episode of season 5 of the popular PBS MASTERPIECE Mystery show All Creatures Great & Small at the North Manchester Public Library! About Season 5 of All Creatures Great & Small: "The end of Season 4 saw James Herriot training for missions as an RAF pilot—and going AWOL to visit Helen, arriving at Skeldale House in time to greet their newborn baby, Jim. With the war raging on the continent, James returned to training, and Tristan serving in the Royal Veterinary Corps, Season 4’s finale left us on precarious ground. Now, as the moving new Season 5 trailer reveals, both James and Tristan will return to Darrowby! What circumstances will bring them home, and how they will adjust? We know nothing more than the joy that their return brings. Other than that, animal hijinks, Mrs. Hall in uniform, and a deliciously adorable baby Jim round out this long-anticipated upcoming season." This show is based on the All Creatures book series by James Herriot, also available for check out at the library. We are so excited to partner with PBS Fort Wayne to give our patrons a chance to see the show before it premiers on TV! PBS will also be serving shortbread cookies, tea and coffee at the event, to make it extra special! This showing is FREE, but space will be limited and RSVPs are required, so sign up ASAP. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None, but geared for teens and adults Registration: Yes. Sign up here: https://wfwa.secureallegiance.com/wfwa/WebModule/Survey.aspx?P=RSVPACS5NM&PAGETYPE=SUR&CHECK=lr6Tyb9BikbXCbARNtgTWkm84kmIbcTuUBekNrDX6Cg%3d Location: Blocher Community Room |
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COLORING CAFÉ
Tuesday, January 7th @ 3:45pm Want a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Coloring Café is just what you need! Coloring is a healthy way to relieve stress, as it can calm the brain and help your body relax. Come to the library to enjoy a peaceful afternoon of coloring your stress away! We’ll have a variety of different coloring pages to choose from, and we’ll be serving coffee, hot chocolate and tea. And if that isn’t already perfect enough? We’ll be playing café style music the entire time. So take a moment for yourself and unwind with some coloring therapy! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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NMPL WRITER'S RETREAT
Saturday, January 11th from 11am-1pm Calling all writers! NMPL's Writers Retreat is here to help you cultivate creativity and connect with fellow aspiring authors. Spend the first hour bouncing ideas off like-minded individuals, then dive into your writing project for the second hour. Take your writing to the next level with Writers Retreat! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: Teens and adults Registration: None Location: Conference Room |
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TEA & BREAD BOOK TASTING: GEMS FROM THE NON-FICTION SECTION
Monday, January 13th @ 6pm Described as "literary speed dating", NMPL Book Tastings will help adult readers broaden their reading horizons and discover exciting new book adventures. Participants will have the chance to sample a variety of books in 5 minute time increments, and when the bell sounds, they can decide to bring the book home, try another title, or do both. Explore new authors, genres, and series that you might not have tried before. No more complaints of, "I don't have anything to read!" Plus we'll have hot tea and delicious homemade goodies to sample! Book Menu: This month we’re exploring the wonderful world of non-fiction with gems from the biography, history, cookbook, craft, gardening, health, and poetry section! Bread Menu:
Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: Ages 16+ Registration: No Location: Blocher Community Room |
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BENJAMIN FRANKLIN IN FRANCE: DIPLOMACY, CELEBRITY, AND FLIRT
Tuesday, January 14th @ 3:45pm Benjamin Franklin made his name in Philadelphia, but he did some of his more important (and fascinating) work in France. After arriving in 1776 and taking the country by storm as a rock-star-level celebrity, he secured vital support for the American Revolution. Join IU Kokomo Chancellor Mark Canada, author of the Audible Original Ben Franklin’s Lessons in Life, for a look at Franklin's adventures in France. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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DIY SUGAR SCRUBS & BATH SOAKS WITH PURDUE EXTENSION
Wednesday, January 15th @ 4:00pm Feeling like it's time for a little self-care? The best part is, you don’t have to break the bank or make a trip to the store! With just a few simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, you can create luxurious scrubs and soothing soaks right at home. Join Jessi from Purdue Extension as she guides you through several easy-to-follow recipes that smell divine and feel absolutely amazing. Whether you're looking to exfoliate, unwind, or simply treat yourself, these DIY creations are sure to add a little bliss to your day. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirement: 5 through Adult Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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COLORING CAFÉ
Tuesday, January 21st @ 3:45pm Want a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Coloring Café is just what you need! Coloring is a healthy way to relieve stress, as it can calm the brain and help your body relax. Come to the library to enjoy a peaceful afternoon of coloring your stress away! We’ll have a variety of different coloring pages to choose from, and we’ll be serving coffee, hot chocolate and tea. And if that isn’t already perfect enough? We’ll be playing café style music the entire time. So take a moment for yourself and unwind with some coloring therapy! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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KEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINE WITH THE INDIANA STATE POLICE INTERNET CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN
Thursday, January 23rd @ 6pm David Kewish, Detective with the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Special Investigations Division, will present on Keeping Kids Safe Online for parents, guardians and communities. This presentation will provide participants with helpful information, prevention tools, and share best practices to respond to their child if something happens. Attendees will learn how to know the platforms, be proactive, spot red flags, and engage with their children to keep them safe online. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: Due to the topics discussed in this presentation, this program is only for ages 18+. Registration: No Location: Blocher Community Room |
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TAKE & MAKE CRAFT: DIY DOLLHOUSE KIT
Monday, January 27th - All Day The ultimate DIY dollhouse rooms are ready and waiting for you to build! Whether you want to design a chic office, a cozy living room, or even a sweet nursery, we’ve got all the materials you need. Simply swing by the Adult Department Circulation Desk to pick up your kit of choice, then head home and let your creativity run wild as you bring your miniature masterpiece to life! Don’t miss out—your dream dollhouse is just a kit away! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: This is a passive craft for ADULTS ONLY! You must be 18+ to ask for a kit. Registration: None Location: All boxes will be at the Adult Department Circulation Desk. |
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COLORING CAFÉ
Tuesday, January 28th @ 3:45pm Want a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Coloring Café is just what you need! Coloring is a healthy way to relieve stress, as it can calm the brain and help your body relax. Come to the library to enjoy a peaceful afternoon of coloring your stress away! We’ll have a variety of different coloring pages to choose from, and we’ll be serving coffee, hot chocolate and tea. And if that isn’t already perfect enough? We’ll be playing café style music the entire time. So take a moment for yourself and unwind with some coloring therapy! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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SWEET TREAT WEDNESDAY: PEANUT BUTTER MOUSSE
Wednesday, January 29th @ 6pm on Facebook Craving something irresistible? Peanut Butter Mousse is the creamy, dreamy dessert you’ve been waiting for! Packed with rich, decadent peanut butter flavor, this melt-in-your-mouth treat is every peanut butter lover's dream come true. And the best part? You can whip it up in just 5 minutes with a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen! Don’t miss out—head over to NMPL’s Facebook page at the designated time (or any time after) and learn how to make this quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious dessert that’s sure to satisfy every sweet tooth! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: NMPL Facebook page |