May 17 | Upload/Download to Ancestry and Rootsweb - Main
6:45 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
These popular online genealogical databases provide the means to collect your family tree data online and to download the data to your laptop or desktop. The downloaded data can then be loaded into other genealogical software or shared with other people.
May 18 | Creative Writing and Arts Series - Main
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
Calling all teens! Throughout April and May, the library will host 8 sessions on how to unlock your creative juices. Do you paint? Draw? Write? Hone your craft using unexpected exercises and activities. Start a new portfolio of your work. Let your creative juices flow! Each week we will focus on something new. For teens ages 10 and up.
May 19 | Skype 101 - Main
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Skype is a phone and videocalling service that offers free videoconferencing in real-time to an international audience. Want to connect with your relative in another state or chat with a friend overseas for free? We'll show you how to connect with the revolutionary service.
May 21 | GRPL Anime Club - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing Japanese Animation, or "anime" films each time we meet, along with snacks and refreshments. This month we will be viewing The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. For ages 11-18.
May 21 | Using Facebook to Promote your Business - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Take Facebook to the next level! With over 800 million active users, Facebook is the fastest growing social networking website. Learn how to find new customers, build an online community, and market your business using Facebook. Attendees should already have a basic understanding of how to use Facebook.
May 22 | Introduction to Computers - Main
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This basic course is designed to provide students with an introduction to various aspects of personal computing. Learn 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, start with this class before trying one of our other classes.
May 23 | Basic Word Processing - Main
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who have some experience with using the mouse, this class covers the basics of using a word processing program similar to Microsoft Word or WordPerfect. You'll learn such fundamentals as simple document formatting, saving and printing. This class is for true beginners to work processing.
May 24 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
May 25 | Word Processing II & Spreadsheets - Main
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those already familiar with the basics of word processing, the class covers more advanced formatting topics such as headers and footers, columns, tables, along with a basic overview of spreadsheets.
May 26 | Internet Security 101 - Main
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This class covers the basics on internet security from protecting your computer against malware and virus attacks to configuring your computer security and firewall settings to protecting your personal information online.
May 26 | Creative Writing and Arts Series - Main
3:00 pm - 4:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
Calling all teens! Throughout April and May, the library will host 8 sessions on how to unlock your creative juices. Do you paint? Draw? Write? Hone your craft using unexpected exercises and activities. Start a new portfolio of your work. Let your creative juices flow! Each week we will focus on something new. For teens ages 10 and up.
May 30 | Introduction to Email - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet, this class covers basic topics in using email with particular emphasis on free web-based 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 read attachments.
May 31 | Open Lab - Main
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Come into the Computer Lab and practice basic computer skills and get basic computer help with word processing, spreadsheets, email, Internet, library databases and more!
Jun 01 | Volunteen Orientation - Main
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Story Time Room, Level 2
Teens ages 11-18 can apply to be a volunteer at the library. Earn your required volunteer hours while helping the library. Space is limited. Apply at any GRPL location or online at grpl.org/teens.
Jun 02 | BookFest - Main
10:00 am - 5:30 pm
BookFest is a one-day outdoor book festival that run concurrently with Festival of the Arts. The outdoor stage will feature musical performances by Jim Gill, Ribbons of Song, and the Beatles tribute band Toppermost. Author appearances include Gary Schmidt, graphic novelist John Porcellino, and Wade Rouse. There will also be a storybook parade led by characters from the PBS program Super Why! and a poetry slam with Romeo Ray. For a complete schedule of events, visit grpl.org/bookfest.
Jun 02 | Volunteen Orientation - Seymour
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Teens ages 11-18 can apply to be a volunteer at the library. Earn your required volunteer hours while helping the library. Space is limited. Apply at any GRPL location or online at grpl.org/teens.
Jun 04 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
Jun 04 | Volunteen Orientation - Seymour
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Teens ages 11-18 can apply to be a volunteer at the library. Earn your required volunteer hours while helping the library. Space is limited. Apply at any GRPL location or online at grpl.org/teens.
Jun 04 | Volunteen Orientation - West Leonard
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Teens ages 11-18 can apply to be a volunteer at the library. Earn your required volunteer hours while helping the library. Space is limited. Apply at any GRPL location or online at grpl.org/teens.
Jun 04 | Volunteen Orientation - Yankee Clipper
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Teens ages 11-18 can apply to be a volunteer at the library. Earn your required volunteer hours while helping the library. Space is limited. Apply at any GRPL location or online at grpl.org/teens.
Jun 07 | Encore Reading Club - Main
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Replaces event originally scheduled for: Thu Jun 7, 2012 1pm
Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Are you a social, inquisitive, thoughtful person who enjoys discussion and relishes the opportunity to learn? You're an Encore reader! Grand Rapids Community College's Older Learner Center has teamed up with the Grand Rapids Public Library to create a different type of book club that focuses on topics affecting today's aging society. Encore will focus on the book Longevity Rules: How to Age Well Into the Future. Topics of discussion will include intergenerational conflict, the great retirement divide, growing old or living long, and more.
Registration required. Please call 616.234.3400.
Jun 12 | Lids at the Library - Yankee Clipper
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
The Grand Rapids Griffins' "Put a Lid on It!" program and Safe Kids Greater Grand Rapids will distribute a limited number of free bike helmets to kids ages 1-12 (subject to availability). A parent or guardian must be present to receive a helmet. For more information call 616-391-safe or visit griffinshockey.com/putalidonit.
Jun 14 | In the Writer's Kitchen - Main
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
With Poet Hope Anita Smith
Middle School Poetry Workshop (finished grade 5-7)
Writers and poets are invited to feast on these poetry "wordshops." No matter what your interests are there is a recipe in this writer's kitchen that will inspire you. Registration is required at grpl.org/register.
Jun 14 | In the Writer's Kitchen - Main
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
With Poet Hope Anita Smith
High School Poetry Workshop (finished grade 8-12)
Writers and poets are invited to feast on these poetry "wordshops." No matter what your interests are there is a recipe in this writer's kitchen that will inspire you. Registration is required at grpl.org/register.
Jun 18 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - Main
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jun 18 | GRPL Anime Club - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing Japanese Animation, or “anime” films each time we meet, along with snacks and refreshments. This month we will be viewing Redline. For ages 11-18.
Jun 19 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - Main
10:30 am - 11:30 am Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 19 | Chasing the Impressionists - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Elizabeth Kostova Talks about The Swan Thieves
Elizabeth Kostova will discuss the inspirations, research, and writing of her most recent novel, The Swan Thieves, This book was inspired not only by her love of great paintings but also by her interest in the lives of painters. Drawing on her experience of writing and researching The Historian, she worked to recreate in The Swan Thieves several different places and periods, including settings in the U.S., France, and Mexico. A book signing will follow the discussion.
Jun 19 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - West Side
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 19 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 20 | 3 Months to a Better You - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm VanderVeen Center for the Book, Level 4
Want to slim down, feel better, and look great fast? Learn how to from a personal fitness expert. Getting a slimmer waist, firmer body and extra energy doesn't have to be a chore. Whether you're a beginner or ready to take your fitness to the next level, you'll gain valuable tips about workout routines that maximize weight loss, and a life plan that supports a healthy lifestyle. Fitness experts will show you how to develop a personal fitness plan that gets you fit in as little as three months. Take the summer fitness challenge and get on the road to a better you.
Jun 20 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 20 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - Van Belkum
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 21 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - Van Belkum
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jun 21 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - West Leonard
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 21 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - Yankee Clipper
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 21 | Flower Arranging Demonstrations - Offsite Library Program
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Ball Park Floral – 8 Valley Ave NW
Join us at Ball Park Floral where Heidi Poll and her floral designers will demonstrate techniques for contemporary floral arrangement. Participants will learn tips for designing and presenting various arrangements in two distinct programs.
Jun 22 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - Madison Square
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 22 | Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty - Ottawa Hills
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Environmental Music & Performances for Kids
Join musicians and environmental educators Jeff & Paige for a lively performance of nature loving, feel-good, joyful music combined with quick costume changes, audience interaction and unexpected surprises.
Jun 26 | The Storytellers - Main
10:30 am - 11:30 am Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 26 | The Storytellers - West Side
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 26 | The Storytellers - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 26 | Flower Arranging Demonstrations - Offsite Library Program
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Ball Park Floral – 8 Valley Ave NW
Join us at Ball Park Floral where Heidi Poll and her floral designers will demonstrate techniques for contemporary floral arrangement. Participants will learn tips for designing and presenting various arrangements in two distinct programs.
Jun 27 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - Ottawa Hills
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jun 27 | The Storytellers - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 27 | The Storytellers - Van Belkum
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 28 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
Jun 28 | Documentary Filmmaking - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
In this workshop, independent film producer Rich Brauer discusses the art of good documentary films, including storytelling, technical expertise and artistry. Brauer will discuss his award-winning commercial and educational films and ways you can get involved in the film industry.
Jun 28 | Stuffed Animal Sleepover - Ottawa Hills
6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Kids 10 and under can bring a stuffed animal to the library for a special sleepover. Librarians will read books to put your stuffed animal to sleep. Tuck in your stuffed animal and wish them sweet dreams. When you pick up your animal the next morning and see all the fun your stuffed animal had on its sleepover!
Jun 28 | The Storytellers - West Leonard
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 28 | The Storytellers - Yankee Clipper
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Who: Yankee Clipper
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 29 | The Storytellers - Madison Square
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 29 | The Storytellers - Ottawa Hills
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Musical Folktales
Musical Folktales is an upbeat concert of interactive stories, beautiful music, humor and some interesting musical instruments. Lively Brazilian melodies, familiar American songs, Caribbean tunes, Australian melodies original compositions and more!
Jun 29 | Fulton Street Farmers' Market Tour - Offsite Library Program
10:00 am - 11:00 am Fulton St. Farmer's Market - 1147 E Fulton St
Come see the newly renovated Fulton St. Farmers' Market and get a guided tour of all the new amenites with Market Manager Melissa Harrington. Please meet at the Fulton entrance of the market.
Jul 02 | Stuffed Animal Sleepover - West Leonard
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can bring a stuffed animal to the library for a special sleepover. Librarians will read books to put your stuffed animal to sleep. Tuck in your stuffed animal and wish them sweet dreams. When you pick up your animal the next morning see all the fun your stuffed animal had on its sleepover!
Jul 03 | Stuffed Animal Sleepover - Seymour
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can bring a stuffed animal to the library for a special sleepover. Librarians will read books to put your stuffed animal to sleep. Tuck in your stuffed animal and wish them sweet dreams. When you pick up your animal the next morning see all the fun your stuffed animal had on its sleepover!
Jul 03 | Stuffed Animal Sleepover - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Kids 10 and under can bring a stuffed animal to the library for a special sleepover. Librarians will read books to put your stuffed animal to sleep. Tuck in your stuffed animal and wish them sweet dreams. When you pick up your animal the next morning see all the fun your stuffed animal had on its sleepover!
Jul 03 | GR Reads: The Movies â Roger and Me - Offsite Library Program
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Wealthy Theatre – 1130 Wealthy St SE
Show your GRPL card to receive half-price admission.
A documentary about the closure of General Motors' plant in Flint, Michigan, which resulted in the loss of 30,000 jobs. The film details the attempts of filmmaker Michael Moore to get an interview with GM CEO Roger Smith.
Jul 05 | Understand and Strengthen Your Memory - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Who: Main Library Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
GVSU Assistant Professor Dr. Joel Quamme will give the inside scoop on memory disorders, healthy brain activity, maintaining a healthy memory and much more. Learn about current research in this fascinating field.
Jul 05 | Stuffed Animal Sleepover - Van Belkum
4:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Who: Van Belkum
Kids 10 and under can bring a stuffed animal to the library for a special sleepover. Librarians will read books to put your stuffed animal to sleep. Tuck in your stuffed animal and wish them sweet dreams. When you pick up your animal the next morning see all the fun your stuffed animal had on its sleepover!
Jul 05 | Stuffed Animal Sleepover - West Side
6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Kids 10 and under can bring a stuffed animal to the library for a special sleepover. Librarians will read books to put your stuffed animal to sleep. Tuck in your stuffed animal and wish them sweet dreams. When you pick up your animal the next morning see all the fun your stuffed animal had on its sleepover!
Jul 07 | Stuffed Animal Sleepover - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Kids 10 and under can bring a stuffed animal to the library for a special sleepover. Librarians will read books to put your stuffed animal to sleep. Tuck in your stuffed animal and wish them sweet dreams. When you pick up your animal the next morning see all the fun your stuffed animal had on its sleepover!
Jul 09 | Scrapbooking Tips and Techniques - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm VanderVeen Center, Level 4
Frankie Pratt told the story of her young adult years in a scrapbook. Using photographs and ephemera such a postcards, ticket stubs and graduation programs, the reader learns about her personality and what her life was like in the 1920s. You too can leave a legacy for your family. Learn about scrapbooking basics—everything from choosing the right materials and tools, organizing and creating the scrapbook, tips and techniques, and more!
Jul 09 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - Seymour
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jul 10 | WaZoBia - Main
10:30 am - 11:30 am Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 10 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Jul 10 | WaZoBia - West Side
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 10 | WaZoBia - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 10 | GR Reads: The Movies â Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure - Offsite Library Program
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Wealthy Theatre – 1130 Wealthy St SE
Show your GRPL card to receive half-price admission.
Bill Preston and Ted Logan are two totally excellent dudes facing one most heinous history exam. With the help of Rufus an ultra-cool messenger in a time traveling phone booth, the triumphant twosome bag a bevy of historical heavyweights like the "Bodacious Philosopher" Socrates, "One Very Excellent Barbarian" Genghis Khan, the "Short Dead Dude" Napoleon and "Noah's Wife" Joan of Arc to stage the most hysterical high school project ever. History's about to be rewritten by two guys who can't even spell.
Jul 11 | Author Visit: Jaye Beeler and Dianne Carroll Burdick - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Author Jaye Beeler and award-winning photographer Dianne Carroll Burdick invite you to buckle up for a culinary road trip. Chronicling their year-long journey, they will introduce you to dozens of enterprising taste makers - driving more that 2,500 miles, going on 150 assignments, taking 8,000 photographs, and spending countless hours writing, editing and processing photos to show off Michigan's deliciousness. Come hear the story behind the book. A book signing will follow the presentation.
Jul 11 | WaZoBia - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:30 am
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 11 | WaZoBia - Van Belkum
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 12 | Future Trends - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Researcher and futurist Mark Champion will discuss his work in futures research and its relationship to science fiction writing. The reality of our future is frequently foreshadowed by science fiction authors. Mark will highlight emerging technologies, once only imagined in science fiction that are now a reality. He will also offer a glimpse in the emerging technology and social changes that will shape the future of West Michigan.
Jul 12 | WaZoBia - West Leonard
10:30 am - 11:30 am
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 12 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - West Side
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jul 12 | WaZoBia - Yankee Clipper
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 13 | WaZoBia - Madison Square
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 13 | WaZoBia - Ottawa Hills
10:30 am - 11:30 am
WaZoBia means "come, come, come" in three distinct Nigerian tribal languages. The six member group created a unique musical sound that combines traditional African and Afro-Cuban drumming with a variety of other musical influences.
Jul 14 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
10:00 am - 10:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 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.
Jul 14 | Oak Hill Cemetery Tour - Offsite Library Program
10:00 am - 11:30 am Oak Hill Cemetery - 647 Hall St. SE
Thomas R. Dilley will lead a walk through Oak Hill Cemetery, one of the most historic burial ground in Grand Rapids. He will talk about the lives of many importance people from Grand Rapids history buried at Oak Hill, the beautiful and interesting monuments they left behind, as well as the cultural forces that gave Oak Hill its form and appearance.
Jul 16 | GRPL Anime Club - Main
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing Japanese Animation, or "anime" films each time we meet, along with snacks and refreshments. This month we will be viewing Sword of the Stranger. For ages 11-18.
Jul 17 | Madcap Puppets - Main
10:30 am - 11:30 am Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 17 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Jul 17 | Madcap Puppets - West Side
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 17 | Madcap Puppets - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 17 | Secrets of Minimalist Running - Offsite Library Program
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Riverside Park
In this interactive workshop with Scott Hadley, Ph.D., DPT, you will learn how to fix and prevent the Runner's Triad, the underlying cause of most running injuries. Using a simple self-treatment approach and Dr. Hadley's concept of Reflex Running, you will learn the basics of running injury-free in minimalist shoes. The fast acting techniques presented in this workshop will improve your strength, flexibility and running form, so you can enjoy minimalist running and combat the most common running overuse injuries.
Jul 17 | GR Reads: The Movies â Pretty in Pink - Offsite Library Program
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Wealthy Theatre – 1130 Wealthy St SE
Show your GRPL card to receive half-price admission.
Andie Walsh is a teenager who lives in the dingy part of town with her terminally underemployed dad and is considered a misfit at her uppity high school, but somehow she rises above them all. Her oddball best friend, Duckie, is hopelessly in love with her, so he causes trouble for her romantic pursuits. When local rich kid Blaine develops a fascination with her, they go out on a date together. When Blaine eventually asks the delighted Andie to the prom, the romance versus high school social politics finally culminates at the big night of the prom.
Jul 18 | Madcap Puppets - Seymour
10:30 am - 11:30 am
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 18 | Madcap Puppets - Van Belkum
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 19 | Photographing an Idea: Different Points of View - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Discover how using composition guidelines can improve your photographs. Composition is the heart of a photo and light is the soul. The rule of thirds, leading lines, balance, framing and viewpoint will be covered. Looking at images from Tasting and Touring Michigan, Dianne Carroll Burdick will show you how to notice detail, edges, color, light, lines, shapes, angles, patterns, and even textures to create your own interesting pictures and to tell your own story through photography.
Jul 19 | Madcap Puppets - West Leonard
10:30 am - 11:30 am
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 19 | Madcap Puppets - Yankee Clipper
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 20 | Madcap Puppets - Madison Square
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 20 | Madcap Puppets - Ottawa Hills
10:30 am - 11:30 am
When You Wish Upon a Fish
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm star in this hilarious, slap-stick adventure that includes three versions of The Fisherman and His Wife. The brothers are trying to choose which version to include in their famous book but it is providing to be tougher than they thought! The audience will be asked to lend a hand as the Grimm Brothers work together to bring each fishy fairy tale to life!
Jul 21 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
10:00 am - 10:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 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.
Jul 21 | 80s Game Quest: Scavenger Hunt and Pub Crawl - Offsite Library Program
11:00 am - 5:00 pm Stella's Lounge – 53 Commerce Ave SW
Eager to test your knowledge of 80s pop culture? Bring your team of 2 or more and your smart phone to Stella's to complete 10 challenges in a quest around downtown Grand Rapids. The day starts with a pre-Quest cocktail social and registration for the quest. The Quest kicks off at noon. Your team will need at least one fully charged camera-ready smart phone preloaded with the SCVNGR app. If you get stumped along the way, you can purchase a hint at Stella's with a donation to the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation. At the 80s after party, the winning team will be crowed Grand Mega Champions and be presented with a totally radical trophy and prize. Prizes will also be offered for the best individual and team costumes. Participants must be 21 years or older.
Jul 24 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Jul 24 | Lego Robotics Demonstration - Main
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Ryerson Auditorium, Level 3
Come to an interactive demonstration of logo robotics from Paradise Teams.
Jul 24 | Cooking with Jaye - Offsite Library Program
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Uptown Kitchen – 423 Norwood SE
Jaye Beeler wants you to cook, eat and entertain in season and not get all bunched up about the details, Try a "taste" of Michigan when Jaye demonstrates using pesto including pesto chicken pizza, penne pesto, pesto with shrimp and sweet 100 tomatoes, pesto sun-dried tomato torte, and pesto vinaigrette. She will share tips about "putting" food up for the winter and none of it involves canning!
Jul 24 | GR Reads: The Movies â The Matrix - Offsite Library Program
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Wealthy Theatre – 1130 Wealthy St SE
Show your GRPL card to receive half-price admission.
Thomas A. Anderson is a man living two lives. By day he is an average computer programmer and by night a hacker known as Neo. He finds himself targeted by the police when he is contacted by Morpheus, a legendary computer hacker branded a terrorist by the government. Morpheus awakens Neo to the real world, a ravaged wasteland where most of humanity have been captured by a race of machines that live off the human's body heat and electrochemical energy and who imprison their minds with an artificial reality known as the Matrix. As a rebel against the machines, Neo must return to the Matrix and confront the agents: super-powerful computer programs devoted to snuffing out Neo and the entire human rebellion.
Jul 25 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - West Leonard
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jul 25 | An Evening with Michael Moore - Offsite Library Program
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Who: Offsite Fountain Street Church – 24 Fountain St NE
Join Michael Moore for an evening of moving stories, as he talks about his newest book, Here Comes Trouble. He'll take you on an unforgettable, take-no-prisoners ride through his childhood and many of the pivotal experiences he had as a young adult, that helped make him into the change-maker he is today. A question and answer period and book signing will follow his presentation. Come early as we are expecting quite a crowd for this award-winning filmmaker and author!
Jul 27 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - Madison Square
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jul 28 | Pre-Reading Classes for Kids - Main
10:00 am - 10:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their preschool children, ages 3 to 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.
Jul 28 | Nocturnal Animals Own the Night - Yankee Clipper
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Meet a variety of owls and an Eastern Tiger Salamander from Blandford Nature Center. Learn more about these and other creatures that own the night.
Jul 30 | Henna Tattoo Workshop - Seymour
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Teens can design their own temporary henna tattoos and then implement their ideas.
Jul 30 | Henna Tattoo Workshop - Yankee Clipper
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Teens can design their own temporary henna tattoos and then implement their ideas.
Jul 31 | Pre-Reading Classes for Babies - Main
11:00 am - 11:30 am Storytime Room, Level 2
Parents and caregivers are invited to introduce their babies, birth through 18 months, to music, movement, and language in these 30-minute classes designed just for their specific developmental stages. Babies will enjoy hearing a story and learning songs and rhymes. Playtime afterwards enhances the development of social skills.
Jul 31 | Henna Tattoo Workshop - West Leonard
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Teens can design their own temporary henna tattoos and then implement their ideas.
May 01 | Introduction to Computers - Main
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
This basic course is designed to provide students with an introduction to various aspects of personal computing. Learn 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, start with this class before trying one of our other classes.
May 02 | Word Processing II & Spreadsheets - Main
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those already familiar with the basics of word processing, the class covers more advanced formatting topics such as headers and footers, columns, tables, along with a basic overview of spreadsheets.
May 03 | Encore Reading Club - Main
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Replaces event originally scheduled for: Thu May 3, 2012 1pm
Vander Veen Center for the Book, Level 4
Are you a social, inquisitive, thoughtful person who enjoys discussion and relishes the opportunity to learn? You're an Encore reader! Grand Rapids Community College's Older Learner Center has teamed up with the Grand Rapids Public Library to create a different type of book club that focuses on topics affecting today's aging society. Encore will focus on the book Longevity Rules: How to Age Well Into the Future. Topics of discussion will include intergenerational conflict, the great retirement divide, growing old or living long, and more.
Registration required. Please call 616.234.3400.
May 03 | Introduccion al Internet/Email - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Introduction to the Internet/Email in Spanish
Los estudiantes recibirn una introduccin al Internet y al World Wide Web (WWW), y obtendrn un conocimiento bsico de la estructura y funcin del Internet. Se requiere alguna experiencia en el uso del teclado y el ratn. This class, taught completely in Spanish, will introduce students to the Internet and Email.
May 04 | Internet II - Main
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and feel comfortable on the Internet, this class will teach you haw to use the Grand Rapids Public Library's website, master the online catalog, find out about search engines and databases, sharpen your searching skills, and more!
May 04 | Creative Writing and Arts Series - Main
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
Calling all teens! Throughout April and May, the library will host 8 sessions on how to unlock your creative juices. Do you paint? Draw? Write? Hone your craft using unexpected exercises and activities. Start a new portfolio of your work. Let your creative juices flow! Each week we will focus on something new. For teens ages 10 and up.
May 05 | eBooks 101 - Main
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
EBooks (electronic books) are a fast and convenient way to read. GRPL's eBook lending service is highlighted in this class, covering the steps to install software and download eBooks to your computer, smartphone or device.
May 05 | Reading Rally - Madison Square
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Reading is important for the whole family! Stop by the Madison Square Branch and get inspired to read! There will be a musical performance from Dunuya Drum and Dance and a Lyric Writing Contest judged by Governor Slugwell of the Hip Hop Coalition and a panel of judges. The theme of the contest is Dear Mama.
May 05 | Dunuya Drum & Dance - West Side
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Enjoy a musical performance by Dunuya Drum and Dance featuring lively music and fun for the whole family.
May 06 | Celebrate Skippyjon Jones! - Main
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Come help the library celebrate Children's Book Week! Hear a Skippyjon Jones story, make a cool piece of art inspired by the book with an artist from the Cook Arts Center operated by Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities. Be sure to vote for your favorite books, authors and illustrators in the Children's Choice Book Awards at www.bookweekonline.com. For children 10 and under.
May 07 | Grand TAB Meeting - Main
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Youth Computer Training Center, Level 2
Teens are invited to join the Grand Rapids Public Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Give your opinion on how to make the library better and get in on programming. It is never too late to become a member. For teens ages 11-18.
May 07 | Google Essentials - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
An advanced class designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the internet, this class is designed to provide students with an introduction 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 07 | Celebrate Skippyjon Jones! - Yankee Clipper
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Come help the library celebrate Children's Book Week! Hear a Skippyjon Jones story, make a cool piece of art inspired by the book with an artist from the Cook Arts Center operated by Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities. Be sure to vote for your favorite books, authors and illustrators in the Children's Choice Book Awards at www.bookweekonline.com. For children 10 and under.
May 08 | Kent County Star Power Rally - Main
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Caregivers and their children 5 and under can explore the PNC Mobile Learning Adventure Station. The station includes interactive kiosks, a "What I Want to Be When I Grow Up" photo station, crafts, and educational materials. The day will provide a local celebration of early childhood. A community collaboration between GRPL, PNC Bank, Great Start Collaborative, and the Grand Rapids Children's Museum.
May 08 | Introduction to Library Resources - Main
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Adult Computer Training Center, Lower Level
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and some experience with using the mouse, this class explores the wide-variety of electronic resources that GRPL offers. Learn about everything from research databases to the Michigan Electronic Library (MeLCat) catalog. Find out how to search using GRPL's Evergreen catalog and place holds, access books, request items through MelCat, and surf GRPLpedia, the library's wiki.
May 08 | Early Literacy Essentials Training Class - Main
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Who: Main Library
With Special Guest Susan Collins Thoms
Parents and child care providers can learn about the latest in great literature for children and explore thematic activities related to them. Taught by Judy Freeman of the Great Start Parent Coalition/First Steps and Sarah McCarville of the Grand Rapids Public Library, attendees will come away with daily activities to teach and reinforce pre-literacy skills. Special guest author Susan Collins Thoms will discuss writing for young children and provide tips on how to use her books. Certificates for 1.5 hours of professional development will be given to child care providers. Co-sponsored by the Great Start Parent Coalition.