Library announces July activities

Jun. 7, 2023

The library system has announced a full schedule of activities for all ages. Take a look and make plans to participate.

Garland library adds Hoopla Streaming Service: Garland library users can enjoy streaming movies, TV shows, comics and music for free through Hoopla, the library’s new content streaming service. Hoopla Digital is a category-creating service that partners with libraries across North America, Australia and New Zealand to provide free online and mobile access to thousands of movies, TV shows, comics and music albums. Patrons can borrow, stream and download up to four items per month with a Garland Library card. All content is accessible via Hoopla’s mobile app for iOS and Android and online at hoopladigital.com. 972-205-2533 or  www.Library.GarlandTX.gov.

Early Literacy (Ages 0-5)

SPRING STORYTIMES – June 6 – July 29 – All Libraries

Baby Bounce & Read (birth-18 months): 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Central Library Express, 10 a.m. Wednesdays at North Garland Branch, and 10:15 a.m. Fridays at South Garland Branch

Toddler Time (18-36 months): 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Central Library Express and 10 a.m. Fridays at North Garland Branch and

11:15 a.m. Fridays at South Garland Branch

Preschool Discovery (3-5 years): 9:30 a.m. Thursdays at Central Library Express and 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays at South Garland Branch, and 11 a.m. Fridays at North Garland Branch

Family Read & Play: 10:30 a.m. Saturdays at Walnut Creek Branch Library

Cuentos y Cantos: 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays and 10:30 a.m. Thursdays at Central Library Express

Play & Learn – 10 a.m., Mondays and Fridays, June 5 – Aug. 28 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517 – Limited seating available.

11 a.m. on Wednesdays, June 7 – July 26 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2804

10 a.m. on Saturdays, June 10 – July 29 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3933

It’s playtime! Families can participate in Play & Learn, a weekly event where families with children ages 0 to 5 can enjoy an assortment of toys, games, and activities that foster imagination, creativity, and problem-solving.

LITTLE ART EXPLORERS – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 1 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3933

Little Art Explorers supports child development by integrating activities that build motor skills, increase vocabulary, improve symbol recognition, and encourage emotional awareness. Attendees focus on process of making art, not the end product. July 1 theme: Paint and Transportation

BABY ART CLUB – 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, July 5 and July 19 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Babies (6-18 months) will listen to a short story and then work on a baby-safe painting activity related to the story. Be prepared to get messy, though mess-free options will be available. All supplies provided. Space is limited.

1-2-3 STEAM – 11:15 a.m., Saturdays, July 15 and July 29 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3933

Drop in to introduce your little learner to STEAM during this interactive program that promotes exploration and play!

July 15 theme: Rainbow Fun. July 29 theme: Music and Movement

Summer Reading Adventure

June 2-July 29

Join our Summer Reading Adventure! Set your reading goals and turn in completed goal sheets for a chance to win a grand prize. Children from infants – sixth grade can pick a free book for every completed sheet. Adults and teens in seventh – twelfth grade can turn in completed goal sheets for entries into grand prize drawings. Limit of five entries per person for each grand prize drawing. One grand prize drawing for infants – pre-k, one for kindergarten – sixth grade, four for seventh – twelfth grade and four for adults 18 and older. Only one grand prize per person.

SUMMER READING ADVENTURE INTERACTIVE LABS

Registration is required for each session. Each library will host two sessions on the specified dates; one at 2:30 and one at 3:30 p.m. Please call your preferred library to register for each session.

Central Express Library – 972-205-2517 – Limited seating available.

  • July 11 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only. *
  • July 17 – Frontiers of Flight Museum Programs: Weather, It Matters!

 North Garland Branch – 972-205-2804

 July 1 – Sci-Tech: CSI Jr.

  • July 7 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only. *
  • July 15 – Perot TECH Truck: Robotics
  • July 29 – Frontiers of Flight Museum Programs: Journey – Space

 South Garland Branch – 972-205-3933 

  • July 12 – Perot TECH Truck: Robotics
  • July 22 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only. *
  • July 26 – High Touch High Tech: Light Fever©

 Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585 

  • July 6 – Perot TECH Truck: Robotics
  • July 20 – Frontiers of Flight Museum Programs: Weather, It Matters!
  • July 26 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only. *

 Families

FAMILY FUN TIME – 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, July 5 and July 19 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3933

Join us for an afternoon of STEAM-related activities. No registration required. July 5 theme: Life-sized Candyland. July 19 theme: Winter in July.

MYSTERY BAG CRAFT – 2:30 p.m., Saturdays, July 1; July 29 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Families with children 4 and up can grab a mystery bag of craft materials and promote STEAM skills, expand your imagination, and make whatever you like.

ESCAPE THE LABYRINTH – 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, July 8 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Use your wits and courage to solve the Goblin King’s Labyrinth before time runs out! Groups of 2-8 people complete riddles and challenges based on Jim Henson’s film Labyrinth to defeat Jareth. Participants 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and begins two weeks before event.

SUMMER DANCE PARTY – 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 11 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2804

Come groove to kid-friendly tunes and participate in parachute play. Crafts, light refreshments. Glow sticks provided while supplies last.

CARDBOARD CREATIONS – 2:30 p.m., Thursdays July 13 and 27 – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585

Children will use their engineering and construction skills to design cardboard creations. They can make swords, shields, and rocket ships using supplies provided by the library. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each event.

SPLASH PARTY – 2:30 p.m., Monday, July 24 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Families may cool off with fun water games and activities at this outdoor event.

Young Audiences (Ages 6-12)

FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS – Throughout June and July – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585

Kids can drop in to the library and make friendships bracelets for free while supplies last. In June, participants can create embroidery thread bracelets, and in July they can craft beaded bracelets.

STEAM CLUB – 2:30 p.m., Thursdays, July 6 and July 20 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3933

Explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Children ages 6-10 will discover and create – fun activities and challenges. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each event. July 6 theme: Snack Pulley Challenge. July 20 theme: Sun Printing.

STEAM Lab – 2:30 p.m., Monday, July 10 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Each STEAM Lab will consist of stations featuring activities on a centralized theme. Attendees may take home any project they complete at the event. No registration required. July 10 Theme: Oceans. Limited seating available.

10 a.m., Saturday, July 15 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2804

Participants will explore science and engineering concepts while completing hands-on STEAM projects. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each event date. July 15 project: Paint Pour.

ART CLUB – 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, July 12 and July 26 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Each class will consist of a short story being read and a related activity that uses different art mediums such as paints, markers, and crayons. Limited seating available. July 12 theme: Pointillism. July 26 Bubble Art.

LEGO® CLUB – 3 p.m., Saturday, July 8Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Lego® Club members (ages 6-15) will enhance their creativity by participating in new STEAM-related challenges each month. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event. Limited seating available.

CHESS CLUB – 3 p.m. Saturday, July 22 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Make your move! Come learn the basics of chess and test your skills in a match. All chess materials will be provided. For kids and teens (ages 6-17). Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each event. Limited seating available.

BALANCING ACT WITH THE DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 8 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2804

Children ages 6-12 can learn about sculptures from Dallas Museum of Art staff. Attendees can apply their new science and art skills and make their own sculptures to take home. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to the event.

DIY STICKERS – 2:30 p.m., Thursday, July 13 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3933

Tweens ages 10-12 can come design, color, and create their very own stickers! Registration is required and begins two weeks before event.

LEGO-FY YOURSELF – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 22 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2804

Personalize your own 3D printed Lego®-like mini-figures using acrylic paints. Registration is required and begins two weeks before event.

Teen Audiences (Ages 13-17)

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 13 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Teens can make a difference in their community and earn volunteer hours by joining the Teen Advisory Board. Attend a meeting to apply and discuss future library events, services, and materials for teens. Limited seating available.

AMIGURUMI CLUB – 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays, June 6 – July 25 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Teens and adults, join us to work on crochet amigurumi projects. Bring your works-in-progress or a new pattern you are excited to make while sharing tips and relaxing. Supplies are limited. Feel free to bring additional supplies if you have them.

GAME ON – 5-7 p.m., Wednesdays, July 5 and July 19 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Come test your Wii gaming skills with friends, new and old. Snacks will be provided. Limited seating available.

TEEN CRAFT CORNER – 5-7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, July 12 and July 26 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Learn a new craft, such as crochet or embroidery, or work on your own project. A variety of craft supplies will be available to use, or you can bring a craft project from home. Snacks will be provided. Limited seating available.

TEEN ADVENTURING GUILD – 5-7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 20 – Central Library Express  – 972-205-2517

Seeking teen adventurers! All Dungeons and Dragons skill levels welcome. New players can join at any time. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event. Limited seating.

CHESS CLUB – 3 p.m. Saturday, July 22 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Make your move! Come learn the basics of chess and test your skills in a match. All chess materials will be provided. For kids and teens (ages 6-17). Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event. Limited seating.

MIDDLE GRADE MAKERS – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 22 – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585

Children in grades four – eight can explore STEAM concepts while completing fun, hands-on learning activities. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event. July 22 project: rainbow snow.

GET BREADY TO CRUMBLE! BAKE THE BOOK – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 22 – Theme: Pie Bakes. Books: Pieometry by Lauren Ko, Pie Camp by Kate McDermott, or The Perfect Pie by America’s Test Kitchen – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Teens and adults will sign up and select recipes two weeks prior to each event, then make their selection at home and bring it to the meetings. Participants can choose a recipe from the listed books or use a recipe of their own that fits the theme.

MINIATURE FIGURE PAINTING – 2 to 4 p.m., Tuesday, July 25 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517

Learn the basics of painting mini-figures and discover some special techniques to bring your new character to life. Limited seating available.

INTRO TO JOURNALING – 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 6 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Teens, adults construct and decorate a journal and learn about benefits of journaling. Registration required and begins two weeks before event.

PRINTMAKING – 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 18 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2804

Learn printmaking techniques from Dallas Museum of Art staff and make your own creation. Registration is required and begins two weeks before event.

LIBRARY FAMILY FEUD® – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 29 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Test knowledge on Library Family Feud®! Teens and adults can compete in teams of 4-6 players by guessing the most common answers to surveys about the library to win prizes. Registration for competitors begins two weeks before event. Audience members do not need to register.

TEEN AFTER HOURS

Teens ages 13 to 17 can hang out at the library after closing. Each Teen After Hours event consists of a group activity. Snacks are provided. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event.

6:30 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 21 – North Garland Branch

Dress as your favorite family-friendly book, anime, or fandom character and enjoy snacks, music, board games. Call 972-205-2804 to register.

6:30 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 28 – South Garland Branch

Are you smarter than a librarian? Compete in teams of 1-2 against librarians in Disney® trivia. Snacks provided. Call 972-205-3933 to register.

Adult Programs (Ages 18+)

BOOK CLUBS

MYSTERY BOOK CLUB – 6 p.m., Thursday, July 27 – The Push by Ashley Audrain – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585

Library staff and attendees will discuss the selected titles.

BOOK CLUB – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 20 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Library staff and attendees will discuss the selected titles. Visit www.Library.GarlandTX.gov for June and July book selections.

GET BREADY TO CRUMBLE! BAKE THE BOOK – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 22 – Theme: Pie Bakes. Books: Pieometry by Lauren Ko, Pie Camp by Kate McDermott, or The Perfect Pie by America’s Test Kitchen – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Teens and adults will sign up and select recipes two weeks prior to each event, then make their selection at home and bring it to the meetings. Participants can choose a recipe from the listed books or use a recipe of their own that fits the theme.

ENTERTAINMENT

GAME NIGHT FOR ADULTS – 6 p.m. Thursday, July 6 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533

Adults, ages 18 and older, can get together at a monthly event and play favorite games with friends or learn a new one. The library will provide playing cards, various board games, puzzles, and video games to play. Limited seating available.

AFTER HOURS: BEGINNER LINE DANCING – 6 p.m. Friday, July 7 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2803

Come learn line dancing at the library! No experience or dance partners necessary. Dancers are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. This is an after-hours program. Participants must arrive before the library closes at 6 p.m.

LIBRARY FAMILY FEUD® – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 29 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Test your knowledge on Library Family Feud®! Teens and adults compete in teams of 4-6 players by guessing most common answers to surveys about the library to win prizes. Registration for competitors begins two weeks before event. Audience members do not need to register.

CRAFTS

MAKER SPACE CLASSES – 2 p.m. Fridays, June 9 – July 28 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533

Come learn about Central’s Maker Space and develop maker techniques to use during Open Lab times. These skills include Laser Cutting, 3D Design, 3D Printing, Vinyl Cutting (Cricut), soldering, and more. Two hours of Open Lab follow each class. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each class. Open to teens (ages 13-17) and adults. Limited seating available.

MAKER SPACE: OPEN LAB – 3 to 5 p.m. Fridays, June 9 – July 28; 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays, June 10 – 29 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533

Teens (ages 13-17) and adults are welcome to use the library’s Maker Space tools and resources. A variety of craft supplies will be available to create with. Patrons must attend the maker space classes in order to use the Maker Space during Open Lab.

BOOK A LOOM – By appointment during open hours, throughout June and July –  Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2587

During June and July, adults, and children accompanied by adults, may sign up to use the library’s weaving loom. All projects must be completed within one week and will be displayed in the library throughout the summer. Projects must be completed within the library as the loom must remain within the library. Children using the loom must be supervised by an adult at all times.

AMIGURUMI CLUB – 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays, June 6 – July 25 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Teens and adults, join us to work on crochet amigurumi projects. Bring your works-in-progress or a new pattern you are excited to make while sharing tips and relaxing. Supplies are limited. Feel free to bring additional supplies if you have them.

MOSAIC PENCIL CUP OR MAKEUP BRUSH ORGANIZER – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 8 – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2587

Attendees will learn the art of mosaic making and will use their skills to transform a bamboo container into a mosaic pencil cup or makeup brush holder. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to event.

PAINT BY NUMBER – 5 p.m. Tuesdays, July 11 & July 18 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533

Attendees will choose their own paint by number to create while enjoying peaceful music and refreshments. Limited seating available. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each event date. Participation limited to one session per patron.

ACRYLIC PAINTING FOR ADULT BEGINNERS – 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 12 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533

Participants will be taught acrylic painting techniques – types of brush strokes, basic form, shading, and color mixing by local artists. All attendees will paint the same picture. Light refreshments served. Limited seating. Registration required and begins two weeks before event.

CRAFT FOR A CAUSE: SNUFFLE MATS – 5 p.m., Thursday, July 20 – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2803

Craft for a cause and make a snuffle mat, an interactive stress/anxiety reliever, for a cat or dog. All snuffle mats made during the program will be donated to the Garland Animal Shelter. All supplies provided. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to the event date.

INSTRUCTIONAL/INFORMATIONAL

ESL CONVERSATION CLASSES

Improve your general English skills in a casual setting. Attendees may practice their conversation skills, build their vocabulary, learn about American culture, and meet a diverse group of people.

6:30 p.m. Mondays, June 5 – Aug. 28 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533 – Limited seating available.

6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, June 6 – July 25 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Every Body Yoga – 2 p.m. Fridays, June 9 – July 28 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Adults can learn the basics of yoga from a professional yoga instructor. Attendees must provide their own blanket, towel, or yoga mat and are encouraged to exercise within limits of their abilities and fitness levels.

LET’S WRITE: WRITING WORKSHOP – North Garland Branch – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 27

Improve your fiction writing skills and get encouraged by other writers. Participants will be given a short prompt and time to write and share (or not share) their works. All skill levels welcome.

INTRO TO JOURNALING – 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 6 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Teens and adults can construct and decorate a journal of their own while learning about the benefits of journaling. Registration is required and begins two weeks before event date.

FITNESS – THE DECADES: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE TRUTH – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 15 – South Garland Branch – 972-205-3931

Explore the history of fitness led by an ACE certified personal trainer who will demonstrate different approaches to exercise – the ages. Healthy snacks will be provided. Registration is required and begins two weeks before event.

COMPUTER CLASSES

Participation is free and open to adult Garland residents. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each class. Call 972-205-3931 to register. All classes are at the South Garland Branch.

GETTING ON THE INTERNET – 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 13

INTRO TO WORD – 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 27

Seniors (Ages 55+)

SENIOR SOCIAL HOUR

Senior Social Hour is for patrons 55+. Sponsored by Friends of the Library, SSH features entertainers, such as musicians and storytellers. Light refreshments served. Registration not required. Doors open 30 minutes before performance. Visit www.Library.GarlandTX.gov for latest info.

JAZZLAND – 2 p.m. Thursday, July 20 – South Garland Branch – listen as Jazzland, an eight-piece group of senior musicians, performs jazz

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