Upcoming Events
April 8, 2013 – December 31, 2013
Archives A to Z Exhibit
Come explore the unique treasures found in the Grand Rapids History and Special Collections Department of the Grand Rapids Public Library. Using letters, business documents, personal recollections, scrapbooks, photographs and other items, this exhibit explores unusual and little known stories of Grand Rapids history using the 390 processed collections and over one million photographs held in the department.
May 25, 2013
Bilingual Pre-Reading Classes for Kids
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children ages 3-5, to 45-minute classes featuring literacy-rich activities such as interactive storytelling using puppets, dramatic play, and hands-on fun. Related songs, fingerplays, and activities are interspersed between books. Classes end with a fun and creative art activity. Everything in the class will be conducted in both English and Spanish.
Teen Web Comic & Manga Design Workshop
Learn character design and how to create a web comic or manga. Teens will create a basic panel featuring characters and the world they inhabit and learn how a web comic operates. Basic computer skills required. Registration is required.
May 28, 2013 – August 31, 2013
Summer Reading Challenge for Kids and Teens
Are you up to the challenge this summer? Are you ready to dig into some good books? Will you discover what lies beneath the surface of that book cover? The Grand Rapids Public Library challenges all kids in the city under the age of 18 to read. The more levels you complete, the more prizes you win. Victory is yours for the taking. Will you rise to the challenge? Competitors can register at www.grpl.org/summerreading.
Basic Typing Class
You might be lightning-fast at texting but how are your typing skills? Don’t let lack of training slow down your ability to crank out research papers, short stories, and novels.
This 9-session class will get you up to speed in just one month. Learn to love your homekeys and type your way through the alphabet without peeking at the keyboard. Space is limited so sign up today.
Registration required: www.grpl.org/register.
TSU: Volunteer Orientation
Apply starting May 1: Apply at your favorite GRPL location or online! Have fun behind the scenes at the Library while earning your required volunteer hours. Spaces are limited.
May 29, 2013
Teen Computer Class: Introduction to Basic Photo Editing & Graphic Design
This class will guide teens on turning pictures into Photoshop wonders. Learn how to edit pictures, add text, or turn a picture into a beautiful painting. Explore how to make flyers for your band, school club, or party. Basic computer skills are required. Registration is required.
TSU: Flash Mob, Dance Party
Teens, are you looking for a great event to kick off your summer? Wanna brag to your friends how you just showed up somewhere to dance? Need a fun way to earn community service hours? Look no further! The library will hold rehearsals in May and June for teens to participate in a community dance party event. Join Brandi Angelosanto from Artistic Grace for two nights of fun a week (at either location) to learn simple steps for our first flash mob. No dancing experience or skill required. Grab some friends and let’s make it a party!
May 30, 2013
Basic Typing Class
You might be lightning-fast at texting but how are your typing skills? Don’t let lack of training slow down your ability to crank out research papers, short stories, and novels.
This 9-session class will get you up to speed in just one month. Learn to love your homekeys and type your way through the alphabet without peeking at the keyboard. Space is limited so sign up today.
Registration required: www.grpl.org/register.
Savvy Social Security Planning
Deciding when to claim social security requires research and careful consideration. Each situation is different, with many factors affecting the decision of when and how to begin collecting social security retirement benefits. Are you single, married, divorced, remarried, or widowed? At what age should you start collecting your benefit? Does it make sense to delay benefits? Join Patrick Newcombe as he provides valuable information on the complexities of making social security retirement decisions. Register at www.grpl.org/register.
This library is a congressionally designated depository for U.S. Government documents.