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 PROGRAMS
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MUSIC TOGETHER (9:30 CLASS)
Every Monday in June & July (beginning June 9th) at 9:30am Each week, babies, toddlers, preschoolers, (and the grownups who love them®) - will gather at the library to sing, dance, and make music together. This playful and engaging Music Together class is designed for children from birth through age 5, accompanied by an actively participating caregiver. Through eight weeks of joyful music-making, families will bond, build a strong foundation in music education, and connect with others in a fun, informal setting where everyone gets involved (no sidelines or lattes required!). Led by a registered Music Together Specialist, this research-based program supports early childhood development in all areas—language, motor skills, social-emotional growth, and more. Participants will receive vibrant take-home materials, award-winning recordings, and access to exclusive online content to keep the music going all week long. This program will also feature a special Family Night celebration on Wednesday, July 9th at 6pm. This program is made possible thanks to the Community Foundation of Wabash County’s Good Deeds grant and the North Manchester Fine Arts Club. Program Cost: Free! Sponsored by the Community Foundation of Wabash County & the North Manchester Fine Arts Club Program Age Requirements: 0 - 5 years old accompanied by one or more caregivers. Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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MUSIC TOGETHER (10:30 CLASS)
Every Monday in June & July (beginning June 9th) at 10:30am Each week, babies, toddlers, preschoolers, (and the grownups who love them®) - will gather at the library to sing, dance, and make music together. This playful and engaging Music Together class is designed for children from birth through age 5, accompanied by an actively participating caregiver. Through eight weeks of joyful music-making, families will bond, build a strong foundation in music education, and connect with others in a fun, informal setting where everyone gets involved (no sidelines or lattes required!). Led by a registered Music Together Specialist, this research-based program supports early childhood development in all areas—language, motor skills, social-emotional growth, and more. Participants will receive vibrant take-home materials, award-winning recordings, and access to exclusive online content to keep the music going all week long. This program will also feature a special Family Night celebration on Wednesday, July 9th at 6pm. This program is made possible thanks to the Community Foundation of Wabash County’s Good Deeds grant and the North Manchester Fine Arts Club. Program Cost: Free! Sponsored by the Community Foundation of Wabash County & the North Manchester Fine Arts Club Program Age Requirements: 0 - 5 years old accompanied by one or more caregivers. Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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RHYTHM KIDS (AGES 6-8)
Every Monday in June & July (beginning June 9th) at 11:30am Rhythm Kids is a high-energy music class designed especially for children ages 6–8 who are ready to dive deeper into music education. Over eight weeks, kids will explore rhythm through movement, games, and animal rhythm stories—perfect for big kids who love to tell stories, be in charge, and have fun while learning. Led by a registered Music Together Specialist, each class taps into how children this age are wired to learn, using play-based, culturally rich music experiences to help them compose, choreograph, and conduct using instruments like West African djembe drums, percussion tools, and—most importantly—their voices and bodies. Families who join will receive a full set of engaging materials, including a vibrant songbook, award-winning recordings, and exclusive online content to support learning at home. By the end of the program, kids will be excited to show off what they've learned—not just to their families, but to anyone who’ll listen! The session will also feature a special Family Night celebration on Wednesday, July 23 at 6pm. This program is made possible through the generous support of the Community Foundation of Wabash County’s Good Deeds grant. Program Cost: Free! Sponsored by the Community Foundation of Wabash County Program Age Requirements: 6 - 8 years old. Rhythm Kids is a “drop-off” optional class. Parents may choose to stay and participate in the fun with their child or if their child is ready to drop off their child for the duration of class. Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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MUSIC TOGETHER (PM CLASS)
Every Monday in June & July (beginning June 9th) at 1:30pm Each week, babies, toddlers, preschoolers, (and the grownups who love them®) - will gather at the library to sing, dance, and make music together. This playful and engaging Music Together class is designed for children from birth through age 5, accompanied by an actively participating caregiver. Through eight weeks of joyful music-making, families will bond, build a strong foundation in music education, and connect with others in a fun, informal setting where everyone gets involved (no sidelines or lattes required!). Led by a registered Music Together Specialist, this research-based program supports early childhood development in all areas—language, motor skills, social-emotional growth, and more. Participants will receive vibrant take-home materials, award-winning recordings, and access to exclusive online content to keep the music going all week long. This program will also feature a special Family Night celebration on Wednesday, July 9th at 6pm. This program is made possible thanks to the Community Foundation of Wabash County’s Good Deeds grant and the North Manchester Fine Arts Club. Program Cost: Free! Sponsored by the Community Foundation of Wabash County & the North Manchester Fine Arts Club Program Age Requirements: 0 - 5 years old accompanied by one or more caregivers. Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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STORYTIME
Every Tuesday at 10am Step into the magical world of stories with our beloved Storytime program! Each session includes engaging stories, lively songs, and hands-on crafts that inspire creativity and learning. It's a great opportunity to connect with other parents, while exploring the joy of books and music with your little ones. We look forward to seeing you there! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None, but recommended for ages 0-5. Registration? None Location: Children's Department |
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JUNIOR MASTER GARDENERS - THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN CANCELLED. We apologize for the inconvenience!
The Junior Master Gardener (JMG) program is a super fun, hands-on adventure in gardening for kids, brought to you by the University Extension network around the world. Whether you're planting your first seed or digging into your hundredth garden bed, JMG gets you learning by doing. With exciting group activities and creative individual projects, kids discover a love for gardening, explore the wonders of nature, and grow their brains while they grow plants! |
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DIRTY DIGGERS
Every Tuesday in June & July at 6:30pm Our popular gardening program for kids is back! This weekly program offers kids all kinds of hands-on experiences. We'll prep garden beds and plant veggies, herbs and flowers. We'll water our plants and harvest and eat the produce. We'll learn about nature and play wild water games each week (bring a beach towel!). This is the perfect program to get kids outdoors, learning, and physically active this summer! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: Kindergarten - Junior High Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room/Library Lawn |
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BABYTIME
Every Thursday at 10am Designed for children from birth to 3 years old and their caregivers, Babytime features books, rhymes, and simple sensory play just right for your little one. Build your baby's foundation for lifelong reading and learning with this engaging program! Families are invited to bring older kids, who can play in the Playroom, craft at the Passive Craft table, or enjoy our computer lab. Caregivers are welcome to stay with the babies, but if you need to choose some books for yourself, or keep an eye on the other kids, your babies will be looked after for you during Babytime! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 0-3 (and caregivers) Registration: No Location: Babyland in the Playroom |
SPECIAL IN PERSON & ONLINE PROGRAMS
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NMPL'S COLOR OUR WORLD SUMMER READING PROGRAM BEGINS!
Thursday, May 29th through Thursday, July 24th Dive into a world of creativity, imagination, and discovery with our Color Our World Summer Reading program! Earn prizes, explore new stories, and let your imagination run wild with art-themed activities and colorful book challenges. This summer is all about brightening your world - one page at a time. WHAT IT IS: Patrons of all ages will enjoy reading or listening to books (any kind you want!) all summer long through one of our three reading programs, all while winning some fabulous prizes! There's something for EVERYONE to enjoy at NMPL's Summer Reading Program! HOW TO SIGN UP: Once the reading program begins in the summer, 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!
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: DIY GARDEN
Monday, June 1st @ 9am to Saturday, June 7th @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: FRIES FOR FATHER'S DAY
Monday, June 9th @ 9am to Saturday, June 14th @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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COLOR OUR WORLD WITH BALLOON ARTIST BRIAN GETZ
Wednesday, June 11th @ 2pm He broke the world record for balloon sculptures with his 88 foot dragonfly. He’s entertained in 49 states and 14 countries. Brian Getz is a balloon artist extraordinaire and he’s coming to North Manchester! "Color Our World" is an interactive, educational program for all ages. Brian will illustrate key artistic concepts in a way that all ages will understand, and all who come will get a chance to to make a balloon creation! At the end of the program, everyone will get to join in as we build a big balloon sculpture to give to the library, a Chihily-Inspired balloon Chandelier! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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LEGO LEAGUE
Friday, June 13th @ 3:30pm Lego League is back - and it’s better than ever! Dive into our massive collection of thousands of Lego bricks to build, create, and compete in cool engineering challenges. Then head outside for water fun and yard games with friends! (Don’t forget your beach towel!) Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Flat Playground (Children’s Department in case of inclement weather) |
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: JUNETEENTH WINDSOCK
Monday, June 15th @ 9am to Saturday, June 21st @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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WONDERLAB: BRIGHT SCIENCE
Wednesday, June 18th @ 2pm Experience an illuminating exploration of a form of energy we can see: LIGHT! We'll discover what light is made of and the science behind the surprising ways it's generated. This engaging demonstration features brightly colored flames, cool glowing liquids, bizarre fluorescent materials and other surprises. The Wonderlab Museum of Science, Health and Technology has an incredible program planned for us! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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LEGO LEAGUE
Friday, June 20th @ 3:30pm Lego League is back - and it’s better than ever! Dive into our massive collection of thousands of Lego bricks to build, create, and compete in cool engineering challenges. Then head outside for water fun and yard games with friends! (Don’t forget your beach towel!) Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Flat Playground (Children’s Department in case of inclement weather) |
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: COOPER THE CHAMELEON
Monday, June 23rd @ 9am to Saturday, June 28th @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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LINE DANCING
Wednesday, June 25th @ 2pm Kick up your heels with line dancing pro Sherry Wakefield! With 25 years of teaching experience across Wabash County, Sherry makes learning to dance easy and fun. She’ll walk you through the steps to two crowd-pleasing routines: The Cupid Shuffle and The Alley Kat by Eric Church. Bring your friends and family for a lively, feel-good evening of music, movement, and fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: No Location: Blocher Community Room |
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LEGO LEAGUE
Friday, June 27th @ 3:30pm Lego League is back - and it’s better than ever! Dive into our massive collection of thousands of Lego bricks to build, create, and compete in cool engineering challenges. Then head outside for water fun and yard games with friends! (Don’t forget your beach towel!) Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Flat Playground (Children’s Department in case of inclement weather) |
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: 4TH OF JULY WANDS
Monday, June30th @ 9am to Saturday, July 5th @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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INTERACTIVE MOVIE: HAROLD & THE PURPLE CRAYON
Wednesday, July 2nd @ 2pm Experience the film like never before as we bring this new movie to life in an exciting interactive movie experience! This isn't just any screening, this is a fully immersive event where YOU become part of the story. At our Interactive Movie events, viewers don't just watch the film - they participate! With hands-on crafts, themed snacks, and engaging activities, you’ll follow Harold on his magical journey as he draws his way through one creative adventure after another. Don’t miss out on this colorful, one-of-a-kind adventure! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Room |
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: DIY GUITAR
Monday, July 7th @ 9am through Saturday, July 12th @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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ONCE UPON A TRIVIA NIGHT: CLASSIC CHILDREN'S BOOKS
Monday, July 7th @ 6pm Test your knowledge of timeless tales and beloved characters in our Classic Children's Books trivia night! From magical adventures to heartwarming stories, see how well you remember the books that shaped our childhoods. Whether you bring a friend, or gather a whole team, this all-ages event is perfect for book lovers of all ages! Plus? The winning team will receive a $50 gift card to The Bowling Alley in Warsaw, Indiana! How It Works:
How to Register: Spots are limited, so sign up your team today! Click the link below or stop by the library to secure your place in the competition. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: Ages 6+ Registration: Yes - sign up by clicking HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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OPEN MAKERSPACE
Tuesday, July 8th from 2pm to 4pm Take the elevator or the stairs to the lower level and enter a world full of crafts, games, and creativity. All ages are invited to come and enjoy 2 hours of Perler Beading, Nintendo Switch, Painting, Foosball, Air Hockey, board games, card games, and more! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages! Registration: No Location: Makerspace |
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MUSIC TOGETHER FAMILY NIGHT
Wednesday, July 9th @ 6pm The 0-5 year old's who are participating in this summer’s Music Together sessions are invited to bring family and friends to the library for a special family night! Celebrate all the fun you’ve had, show off your newly acquired dance and music skills, enjoy some snacks. This is the perfect opportunity to share the experience with your loved ones. Program Cost: Free - sponsored by the Community Foundation of Wabash County and the North Manchester Fine Arts Club Program Age Requirements: 0-5 + family members and friends Registration: None required, but your child must already be registered for Music Together Classes Location: Blocher Community Room |
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LEGO LEAGUE
Friday, July 11th @ 3:30pm Lego League is back - and it’s better than ever! Dive into our massive collection of thousands of Lego bricks to build, create, and compete in cool engineering challenges. Then head outside for water fun and yard games with friends! (Don’t forget your beach towel!) Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Flat Playground (Children’s Department in case of inclement weather) |
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NMPL AT THE FARMER'S MARKET
Saturday, July 12th from 10am to 12pm The North Manchester Farmer’s Market is full of amazing handmade crafts, delicious baked goods, and fresh local produce. Stop by the NMPL booth for a fun scavenger hunt through the market! Complete the hunt to earn tokens, then spend your winnings at the vendor stalls. The hardest part? Choosing what to buy! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Ogan’s Landing |
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: PAPER LEI
Monday, July 13th @ 9am through Saturday, July 19th @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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JACKSON POLLOCK ART DAY
Wednesday, July 16th @ 2pm Splatter, twirl, spin and twist! Color Your World the Jackson Pollock way! Create a beautiful, totally unique work of abstract expressionist art using paint, paper and the movement of your body. Be prepared - this program will be MESSY! Wear old clothes and shoes - and maybe bring a change of clothes for the ride home, too! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Library Lawn |
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OPEN MAKERSPACE
Thursday, July 17th from 5pm to 7pm Take the elevator or the stairs to the lower level and enter a world full of crafts, games, and creativity. All ages are invited to come and enjoy 2 hours of Perler Beading, Nintendo Switch, Painting, Foosball, Air Hockey, board games, card games, and more! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages! Registration: No Location: Makerspace |
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LEGO LEAGUE
Friday, July 18th @ 3:30pm Lego League is back - and it’s better than ever! Dive into our massive collection of thousands of Lego bricks to build, create, and compete in cool engineering challenges. Then head outside for water fun and yard games with friends! (Don’t forget your beach towel!) Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Flat Playground (Children’s Department in case of inclement weather) |
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PASSIVE CRAFT OF THE WEEK: GREAT WHITE SHARK
Monday, July 21st @ 9am through Saturday, July 25th @ 5pm Do you love the different NMPL crafts, but can't fit another thing into your schedule? Do you want to get creative with the kiddos, but don't want to deal with the mess afterwards? Passive Crafts are the solution for you! Each week, a new fun, simple and engaging craft will be set up at the Passive Craft Table in the Children's Department. Stop by ANY time the library is open and spend time crafting at your leisure! No specific times to memorize... no clean up after... just good creative fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Children's Department |
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SUMMER PARTY AND WATERMELON FEED
Wednesday, July 23rd from 1pm to 3pm As sad as we are to see summer come to an end, we are STOKED to celebrate 8 weeks of fun and reading with you! Join us for a new inflatable obstacle course, lots of kiddie pool time, dunking librarians in the dunk tank and yard games. We’ll also have a special Baby Zone so our toddlers and little ones can enjoy the fun. Our friends from First Financial Bank are serving up cold, sweet slices of watermelon for everyone to enjoy. Come hot and hungry, leave cool and happy! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Library Lawn |
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RHYTHM KIDS FAILY NIGHT
Wednesday, July 23rd @ 6pm The 6-8 year folds who are participating in this summer’s Rhythm Kids sessions are invited to bring family and friends to the library for a special family night! Celebrate all the fun you’ve had, show off your newly acquired dance and music skills, enjoy some snacks. This is the perfect opportunity to share the experience with your loved ones. Program Cost: Free - sponsored by the Community Foundation of Wabash County Program Age Requirements: 6 - 8 years old + family members and friends Registration: None required, but your child must already be registered for Rhythm Kids Classes Location: Blocher Community Room |
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FROM BACH TO THE BEATLES WITH HARPIST ANNA HAGEN
Thursday, July 24th @ 6pm Join us at the library for a magical musical journey From Bach to the Beatles with professional harpist Anna Hagen! This engaging program will feature a variety of pieces - from timeless classical works to iconic pop hits - all played on the harp. Along the way, Anna will share fascinating insights into the harp's rich history, intricate mechanics, and incredible range of musical possibilities. A lifelong musician and passionate performer, Anna Hagen has been sharing her love of the harp since the age of fourteen. She performs across the region at theaters, symphonies, community events, and more - using her harp (or often, her family of harps!) to inspire joy wherever she plays. This program is free and open to all. Come enjoy an unforgettable experience with your community! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Room |
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LEGO LEAGUE
Friday, July 25th @ 3:30pm Lego League is back - and it’s better than ever! Dive into our massive collection of thousands of Lego bricks to build, create, and compete in cool engineering challenges. Then head outside for water fun and yard games with friends! (Don’t forget your beach towel!) Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: None Location: Flat Playground (Children’s Department in case of inclement weather) |