Events List Navigation
January 2019
Basic Computer Maintenance
Have you noticed that your computer is slowing down? Have you had a virus or malware infect your machine? Learn a few basic things you can do to keep your desktop, laptop or mobile device running smoothly and efficiently. Discover more about the various problems and threats that can completely disable or reduce the life span of your computer.
Find out more »Hygge Night
Embrace winter and join us for a night of hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”). While there is no direct English translation, the words “cozy and hominess” come close to this concept in Danish culture. Wear your favorite sweater, and we will provide hot drinks, treats, games, beautiful picture books, and a hyggelig atmosphere.
Find out more »Mindstorm Saturdays
Kids ages 10 and up can explore robotics every Saturday at the library. Using Lego Mindstorms EV3 kits, these hands-on robotics teach essential coding skills, problem solving, and more. Be sure to check out the six new robots and science add-on pack that explores energy, heat, temperature, light, force and motion. This is a self-guided, drop-in event.
Find out more »Yoga Time
Bend, breathe, and shake off the winter blues in this yoga class for kids ages 4-11. Led by staff from AM Yoga, Yoga Time introduces kids to different kinds of fitness in a no pressure environment. Mats will be provides, but you are welcome to bring your own.
Find out more »LEGO Block Party
Kids 6 and up can explore engineering, art, math, and other core concepts using Legos and other building blocks. Each month with feature a building challenge to teach critical thinking, problem solving, decision making and more. This is a self-guided, drop-in event.
Find out more »Baby & Me Storytimes
Bring your baby, 0-18 months, and bounce along to fun stories, songs, and rhymes. Baby & Me is a 15-minute storytime followed by a relaxed playtime where you and baby will meet new friends.
Find out more »Toddler Time
Bring your toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years, to share fun stories, songs, and rhymes and learn together! Toddler Time is a 25-minute long storytime followed by a hands-on activity and playtime designed to help your child's brain grow.
Find out more »Managing your Digital Footprint
Have you ever forgotten a password? Do you wish you had a plan to manage your online information and protect your privacy? Managing your digital footprint may seem intimidating, but with a plan and the right tools, you can stay safe and get the most out your experience online. This class offers methods and tools you can use right away to begin managing your online profiles, passwords and information.
Find out more »STEAM Ahead Storytime
Children ages 3-5 can discover the world around them through science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Join us for a 20-minute storytime followed by 25-minutes of hands-on activities.
Find out more »How to Use the Library to Write a Business Plan
Do you have a great idea for a business? Take the first step to starting your own: write a business plan. A more advanced class designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet, this course will highlight library resources to assist students in crafting a well-written business plan. Both online and offline resources will be highlighted.
Find out more »Backup Basics: How to Secure Your Data
Whether it’s your family photos, business documents, or digital media collection, your digital data has value. In this class, we will discuss how to ensure your digital data is kept safe and secure. From thumb drives and hard drives to cloud storage, find multiple ways to backup your data whether you use a traditional computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Find out more »February 2019
Finding Your Michigan Ancestor at the Library of Michigan
The Library of Michigan has been collecting Michigan information since 1826. During that time, the Library of Michigan has collected materials that cover almost any aspect of life within the state. From newspapers, books, newsletters to magazines, the Library of Michigan has tried to collect it. Join Time Gleisner, Head of Special Collections at the Library of Michigan and discover what it has to offer anyone interested in Michigan genealogy and history. This program is co-sponsored by the Western Michigan…
Find out more »Basic Knife Skills
Join the Ginger Chef to learn basic knife skills and practice the fundamental cuts for vegetables—mince, dice, brunoise, batonnet and julienne—as well as some advanced techniques. Discover how to select a knife that best fits your needs and ways to keeping all of your cutlery sharp and well-maintained at home. Participants should bring a cutting board, a chef’s knife and a paring knife. Seating is limited.
Find out more »How to Use the Library to Write a Marketing Plan
One of the first rules of marketing is “go where your customers are.” Learn how to find your customers, craft your story and stand out in the crowd. Join the Business Librarian for an informative session on how to use modern tools and timeless tactics to engage customers to grow your business.
Find out more »Music in the Stacks: JRob
JRob is a lyrical emcee who grew up listening to Nas, A Tribe Called Quest, and Tupac. He brings reality and substance to his music. JRob has opened for Young Jeezy, GZA, Royce Da 5’9, Currency, Jon Conner, LA the Darkman, and Rah Digga. His projects Peace of a King and Good Aint Enough can be found on most streaming sites.
Find out more »Medicaid Information and Enrollment Sessions
Catherine’s Health Center will have an in-person counselor available to answer questions about Medicaid and provide guidance on the application process. Catherine’s Health Center improves the health of our community by providing high quality, affordable and compassionate health care to the underserved.
Find out more »Black Family History Series
What parent or grandparent hasn’t had a child ask where they came from, what their job was, or how they met their spouse? While these family history questions are universal, answers can sometimes be challenging to find. This is especially true for African Americans interested in their family history. Join us for a series of workshops that will help people of African American ancestry learn and document your family’s genealogical history. Hosted by local genealogist Joyce Daniels, the series will…
Find out more »DIY@GRPL: Book Planters
Create a planter out of a book! This ingenious craft will be a fantastic conversation piece for your home or the perfect gift for a loved one. All supplies will be provided, including one succulent per person.
Find out more »Whoa Baby!
For a first-time caregiver or parent, a new baby can bring an incredible amount of joy, but it can also bring a lot of changes too. There is a huge learning curve and parenting can be an isolating experience. In this drop-in group we’ll talk about the joys and struggles of being a first-time parent. Babies welcome!
Find out more »Know Your Investments
Investments are complex and can seem scary. Take the first step and discover why you need to educate yourself about investing. Fred Iacovoni, an independent financial manager will share how to read a prospectus, the hidden costs in a portfolio, how different investment products work, and what to look for in your financial adviser.
Find out more »CHAOS Lab
Toddlers and preschoolers will explore the world through merry mess-making. Each month there will be a new set of activities to make kids squeal with glee! Create some chaos in the library, not in your home. Dress for a mess! This month: Beach Fun. Play with sand, water, and paint with ice while you imagine warmer days.
Find out more »Hustle/Step Soul Line Dance Party
The library is the perfect place to learn – and why not learn how to Hustle/Step? DJ and dance instructor Andre Posey will lead you through both simple and complicated hustle soul line dances. Soul line dances are unpartnered line dances that are easy enough that anyone from kids to seniors can join in on the fun. Learn dances like the wobble, cupid shuffle, cha cha slide, and zydeco slide. Refreshments will be served.
Find out more »Hustle/Step Soul Line Dance Party
The library is the perfect place to learn—and why not learn how to Hustle/Step? DJ and dance instructor Andre Posey will be leading us through both simple and complicated hustle soul line dances. Soul line dances are unpartnered line dances that are easy enough that anyone from kids to seniors can join in on the fun. Soul or urban line dances such as the wobble, cupid shuffle, cha cha slide, and zydeco slide are similar to other line dances except…
Find out more »Job Seeking at Your Library
Gain a better understanding of the job seeking process and gain the confidence to become a strong candidate for the job you want. Join the Business Librarian in this three-part series to learn: Session I: The Process of Finding Good Work Session II: Interviewing for Normal People Session III: Writing for Success
Find out more »Evening Explorers
Do you like to build and discover how things work? Kids in grades 1-5 can have a unique, hands-on STEAM experience each month. Take part in science experiments and activities to learn how things work and explore the world around you. This month: Fizzy Valentines. Melt some hearts with chemistry on Valentine’s Day.
Find out more »Riot, Race and Reconciliation
George Bayard will discuss the origins and results of the uprising of black during the summer of 1967. His documentary, Riot, Race and Reconciliation will serve as a backdrop for the talk. In the documentary, local residents and historians share their recollections of that tumultuous time. Artifacts from the African American Museum and Archives will add further context to the talk. This program is co-sponsored by the Grand Rapids Historical Society.
Find out more »Genealogy Lock-In
Come to the Grand Rapids History and Special Collections Department for a free after-hours program just for genealogists. Learn how to use the library databases, newspaper microfilm and other resources, and take advantage of free copying and printing during the event. Bring your family history questions or problems—volunteers from the Western Michigan Genealogical Society will be on hand to assist. Network with other genealogists—you never know what you might find. Registration required: www.grpl.org/register or call 616-988-5400.
Find out more »GRPL Anime Club
Join the new Anime Club to learn about Japanese culture, customs, and language. Enjoy trivia, authentic Japanese candy, and sharing manga recommendations. This month we will screen Momo e no tegami – A Letter to Momo from the creators of Ghost in the Shell and xxxHOLic!
Find out more »Taste of Soul Sunday
Join us as we celebrate African American history and culture at Taste of Soul Sunday. Sample African American art, music, literature, history, and food. Performances by Tom Cutts, Yolanda Lavender, Asamu Johnson and the Associates of Blues, and The Gospel Believers. Presentations by author Stephen Mack Jones, storyteller Shani Womack, the Ebony Road Players, and New Hope Baptist Live African American Museum. Free food samples provided by: TaDow BBQ, The Candied Yam, Irie Kitchen, and Flavorful Pound Cakes. Free and…
Find out more »And the Oscar Goes To . . .
Whether you are a regular film goer or haven’t been to a theater in years, join us for an overview of this year’s Academy Award nominees just before Oscar’s big night. Make your own call on who will win and who should win the film industry’s most coveted award.
Find out more »Yoga Time
Bend, breathe, and shake off the winter blues in this yoga class for kids ages 4-11. Led by staff from AM Yoga, Yoga Time introduces kids to different kinds of fitness in a no pressure environment. Mats will be provides, but you are welcome to bring your own.
Find out more »Getting Started (or restarted) in Genealogy
Whether you have been working on your family’s genealogy for decades or just getting started, this class is for you. In this six-week series, Susan Rabick will provide instruction around basic and advanced research strategies, including four generation charts, family group sheets and organizing your research. Come learn new skills and brush up on old techniques around using databases and primary sources to research family histories. This program is co-sponsored by the Western Michigan Genealogical Society. February 28 – Introduction…
Find out more »March 2019
How the Pokagon Potawatomi Avoided Removal
Marcus Winchester, a citizen of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, will discuss how his community avoided the Indian Removal Act of 1830. This is a story of tactfulness, relationship building, and ingenuity on behalf of the Potawatomi leaders of this time period. This program is co-sponsored by the Western Michigan Genealogical Society.
Find out more »Building Basic Computer Skills
Are you often confused by computer terms and lingo? By learning the key concepts and basic terminology used in technology, you can build a foundation for digital literacy that will last a lifetime. In this class, you will being developing your skills to navigate the Internet, mobile devices, and many types of software.
Find out more »Music in the Stacks: Mystery Guest
Have a musical interlude in the stacks! Stop by the library for a concert in a unique setting. Due to contractual obligations, we can’t tell you who this Grand Rapids native is just yet, but we promise this concert is worth the wait.
Find out more »DIY@GRPL: Alcohol Ink Art
Create a unique piece of art using alcohol ink. Participants will practice different techniques on paper and ceramic tile. Supplies are provided. For ages 18 and up. Space is limited.
Find out more »Whoa Baby!
For a first-time caregiver or parent, a new baby can bring an incredible amount of joy, but it can also bring a lot of changes too. There is a huge learning curve and parenting can be an isolating experience. In this drop-in group we’ll talk about the joys and struggles of being a first-time parent. Babies welcome!
Find out more »One Book, One City for Kids Author Visit
Meet Pablo Cartaya, the author of The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora, at the end of the One Book, One City for Kids program. He will talk about his book and then sign copies. Enjoy cake and refreshments as you mingle with other readers.
Find out more »CHAOS Lab
Toddlers and preschoolers will explore the world through merry mess-making. Each month there will be a new set of activities to make kids squeal with glee! Create some chaos in the library, not in your home. Dress for a mess! This month: Zany Art. Have you ever painted on ice or snow? Do you like to make your own paintbrushes? Have you ever painted upside down? Experiment with these zany painting techniques and more!
Find out more »Kid’s Joke Time
Kids are invited to take the stage during LaughFest through Kids Joke Time. Young comedians are encouraged to gather their favorite jokes and take the mic. What ensues makes this one of the most entertaining events during the festival. Free and open to the public
Find out more »Discovering the Internet
Using the Internet can be an intimidating experience for many people. Learn how the Internet works and basic definitions for the most common Internet terms. Discover tips and tricks on how to protect your information and identity while searching, shopping and surfing the web.
Find out more »Senior Savvy Learning Series: Aging in Place
You love your home and want to stay there indefinitely. Are you prepared? Have you taken steps to equip yourself and your residence for the long haul? Learn the pros and cons about aging in place and local organizations available to help. Laura Kelso, Certified Senior Housing Professional, will host an expert panel that includes representatives from Disability Advocates, the Northview Senior Center, and Home Repair Services. Learn effective strategies and resources to assist you in living safely in your…
Find out more »Evening Explorers
Do you like to build and discover how things work? Kids in grades 1-5 can have a unique, hands-on STEAM experience each month. Take part in science experiments and activities to learn how things work and explore the world around you. This month: Pi Day Party. Celebrate all things math with a Pi Day party.
Find out more »Faith of the Fathers: The Courage, Humor, and Dedication of Catholic Civil War Chaplains
As religion helped bring about the Civil War, it also helped support its soldiers. The Catholic priest-chaplains were a unique group of pioneers—adventuresome, courageous, outspoken Catholic apologists in a “foreign land.” This presentation will highlight these unique men—their numbers, impact, and some of the colorful characters among them. Being an antebellum Catholic was not an easy task living in a strong anti-Catholic culture, with a Vatican that didn’t “get” American democracy and with a priest shortage created by an influx…
Find out more »Exploring Social Media and Email
The Internet and social media have made it easier than ever to keep in touch with friends and family. Beginning with a brief introduction to email, this class teaches you how to communicate with others online and offers tips on how to be safe while doing so. Learn the basics of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find out what you need to get started with Skype, Google Hangouts and other video calling services.
Find out more »Yoga Time
Bend, breathe, and shake off the winter blues in this yoga class for kids ages 4-11. Led by staff from AM Yoga, Yoga Time introduces kids to different kinds of fitness in a no pressure environment. Mats will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
Find out more »WiFi Basics: Get the Most Out of Your Home Network
Is you home WiFi network secure? Are you getting the fastest connections possible? In this class, we will discuss home WiFi networks and how you can increase the speed and security of your system. Learn about the latest technologies and equip yourself to make informed decisions about your WiFi network and devices. Topics will include encryption, accessibility, speed, and password security.
Find out more »GRPL Anime Club
Join the new Anime Club to learn about Japanese culture, customs, and language. Enjoy trivia, authentic Japanese candy, and manga recommendations. This month we will be screening Your Name.
Find out more »April 2019
Internet Privacy: Protecting Yourself in the Digital Age
It seems every day we hear about how governments, corporations, and hackers are gaining access to individual accounts and personal information. Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to minimize risk as you go online. Join us in learning how to secure information and manage your digital footprint. Topics include securing your internet connection and browser, creating and managing effective passwords, and using email aliases to keep information more secure.
Find out more »Social Media Privacy: Taking Control of Your Profiles
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram have revolutionized how we communicate and relate to one another. But at what cost? In this class, we will cover how social media uses personal information and how you can regain some control over your online profiles and online identity, settings, and features that help you control your social media profiles and online identity.
Find out more »