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 PROGRAMING
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TEEN MAKERS
Every Wednesday @ 3:30pm Drop by the NMPL Makerspace each week to hang out, snack, and get creative. We’ve got crafts, games, activities, and space to just chill. Whether you're into making stuff, trying new things, or just want a spot to relax with friends - we’ve got you. No pressure. No sign-ups. Just show up and make it yours. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13-18 Registration: None Location: NMPL Makerspace |
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SILENT BOOK CLUB
Every Wednesday in June at 6pm; Wednesday, July 2nd @ 6pm; Wednesday, July 16th @ 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 Location: NMPL Adult Department, by the computer are |
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BETWEEN
Every Thursday @ 3:30pm Calling all tweens! Join us in the NMPL Makerspace for our BeTween program - a fun, casual hangout just for you! Come enjoy snacks, video games, crafts, board games, and tons of other awesome activities. Whether you’re into creating, gaming, or just chilling with friends, there’s something here for everyone. No registration needed - just drop in and have fun! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: Ages 9-12 Registration? None Location: NMPL Makerspace |
SPECIAL IN PERSON & ONLINE PROGRAMS
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NMPL'S COLOR OUR WORLD SUMMER READING PROGRAM
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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COMMUNITY WALK: TREE IDENTIFICATION
Monday, June 9th @ 4pm The North Manchester Public Library invites you to embark on a journey of discovery and connection with nature through our series of four community walks led by Board Member and master naturalist, Tim Brauch. Each walk is designed to offer a unique perspective on the natural world around us. We will start in the Blocher Room for a 10 minute discussion then spend about 25 minutes exploring the surrounding neighborhood to practice what we discussed. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just looking to spend some peaceful time outdoors, these walks offer something for everyone. Monday, June 9th: Tree Identification This walk participants will learn to recognize various tree species using a guide from Purdue University, enhancing your appreciation for the diverse flora in our area. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: No Location: Blocher Community Room |
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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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LET'S START SIGNING - BEGINNING ASL: ALPHABET/FINGER SPELLING
Friday, June 13th @ 3:30pm In this course of six 1-hour sessions led by Cass Walker, you will get a solid foundation in the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) including the alphabet/fingerspelling, numbers, over a hundred signs, ASL grammar and deaf culture. You will also get resources and links to learn even more signs. In the final session, you will sign a story, song, or poem to the class. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13+ Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. 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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NMPL WRITER'S RETREAT
Saturday, June 14th 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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COMMUNITY WALK: HIDDEN BEAUTIES
Monday, June 16th @ 4pm The North Manchester Public Library invites you to embark on a journey of discovery and connection with nature through our series of four community walks led by Board Member and master naturalist, Tim Brauch. Each walk is designed to offer a unique perspective on the natural world around us. We will start in the Blocher Room for a 10 minute discussion then spend about 25 minutes exploring the surrounding neighborhood to practice what we discussed. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just looking to spend some peaceful time outdoors, these walks offer something for everyone. Monday, June 16th: Hidden Beauties In the third walk, we’ll explore the beauty hidden within urban spaces, finding pockets of nature that thrive amidst the hustle and bustle of town life. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: No Location: Blocher Community Room |
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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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LET'S START SIGNING - BEGINNING ASL: NUMBERS
Friday, June 20th @ 3:30pm In this course of six 1-hour sessions led by Cass Walker, you will get a solid foundation in the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) including the alphabet/fingerspelling, numbers, over a hundred signs, ASL grammar and deaf culture. You will also get resources and links to learn even more signs. In the final session, you will sign a story, song, or poem to the class. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13+ Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. 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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COMMUNITY WALK: TECHNOLOGY IN NATURE
Monday, June 23rd @ 4pm The North Manchester Public Library invites you to embark on a journey of discovery and connection with nature through our series of four community walks led by Board Member and master naturalist, Tim Brauch. Each walk is designed to offer a unique perspective on the natural world around us. We will start in the Blocher Room for a 10 minute discussion then spend about 25 minutes exploring the surrounding neighborhood to practice what we discussed. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just looking to spend some peaceful time outdoors, these walks offer something for everyone. Monday, June 23rd: Technology in Nature The fourth walk will introduce you to the wonders of technology in nature observation, teaching you how to use apps and tools to identify plants and animals. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: All ages Registration: No Location: Blocher Community Room |
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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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LET'S START SIGNING - BEGINNING ASL: OVER 100 SIGNS
Friday, June 27th @ 3:30pm In this course of six 1-hour sessions led by Cass Walker, you will get a solid foundation in the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) including the alphabet/fingerspelling, numbers, over a hundred signs, ASL grammar and deaf culture. You will also get resources and links to learn even more signs. In the final session, you will sign a story, song, or poem to the class. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13+ Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. 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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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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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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COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: ALA GRANT
Thursday, July 10th @ 4pm The North Manchester Public Library has been named as a recipient of the American Library Association: Libraries Transforming Communities Grant! The $10,000 grant has been awarded to promote accessibility projects in small and rural communities. The library will use these funds to improve the facility for children who are neurodiverse (Sensory Processing Disorder, Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Down’s Syndrome, etc.) Two Community Conversations will be held so the community can come together to share ideas for improving the library. All ages and backgrounds are invited to attend and share their dreams for making the library a more accessible place! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None 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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LET'S START SIGNING - BEGINNING ASL: GRAMMAR
Friday, July 11th @ 3:30pm In this course of six 1-hour sessions led by Cass Walker, you will get a solid foundation in the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) including the alphabet/fingerspelling, numbers, over a hundred signs, ASL grammar and deaf culture. You will also get resources and links to learn even more signs. In the final session, you will sign a story, song, or poem to the class. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13+ Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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NMPL WRITER'S RETREAT
Saturday, July 12th 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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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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LET'S START SIGNING - BEGINNING ASL: DEAF CULTURE
Friday, July 18th @ 3:30pm In this course of six 1-hour sessions led by Cass Walker, you will get a solid foundation in the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) including the alphabet/fingerspelling, numbers, over a hundred signs, ASL grammar and deaf culture. You will also get resources and links to learn even more signs. In the final session, you will sign a story, song, or poem to the class. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13+ Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: ALA GRANT
Monday, July 21st @ 6pm The North Manchester Public Library has been named as a recipient of the American Library Association: Libraries Transforming Communities Grant! The $10,000 grant has been awarded to promote accessibility projects in small and rural communities. The library will use these funds to improve the facility for children who are neurodiverse (Sensory Processing Disorder, Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Down’s Syndrome, etc.) Two Community Conversations will be held so the community can come together to share ideas for improving the library. All ages and backgrounds are invited to attend and share their dreams for making the library a more accessible place! Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: None Registration: None Location: Blocher Community Room |
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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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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) |
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LET'S START SIGNING - BEGINNING ASL: SIGNING A STORY OR POEM
Friday, July 25th @ 3:30pm In this course of six 1-hour sessions led by Cass Walker, you will get a solid foundation in the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) including the alphabet/fingerspelling, numbers, over a hundred signs, ASL grammar and deaf culture. You will also get resources and links to learn even more signs. In the final session, you will sign a story, song, or poem to the class. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13+ Registration: Yes, sign up HERE. Location: Blocher Community Room |
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CRYSTAL SINGING SOUND BATH WITH NOMA YOGA STUDIO
Tuesday, July 29th @ 6pm Join us for a peaceful evening of relaxation as you're enveloped by the calming sounds and vibrations of crystal singing bowls. Let the soothing tones guide you into a deep state of relaxation, helping your body and mind restore balance. All you need to do is rest and enjoy - no movement required. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a yoga mat if you have one. Participants are also welcome to bring blankets and pillows to get extra cozy. This session will be led by LeighAnne Fitzpatrick, an experienced certified yoga Instruction who has taught over 2000 hours of classes. She has run NoMa Yoga studios in North Manchester for 6 years. Program Cost: Free Program Age Requirements: 13+ Registration: No Location: Blocher Community Room |