The Nicholson Memorial Library System has scheduled the following activities for June. There are activities for everyone on the schedule!
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 Library, and 10:15 a.m. Fridays at South Garland Branch Library
Toddler Time (18-36 months) – 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Central Library Express and 10 a.m. Fridays at North Garland Branch Library and 11:15 a.m. Fridays at South Garland Branch Library
Preschool Discovery (3-5 years): 9:30 a.m. Thursdays at Central Library Express and 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays at South Garland Branch Library, and 11 a.m. Fridays at North Garland Branch Library
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.
11 a.m. on Wednesdays, June 7 – July 26 – North Garland Branch Library – 972-205-2804
10 a.m. Saturdays, June 10 – July 29 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
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, June 3 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
Little Art Explorers supports early child development by integrating activities that build motor skills, increase vocabulary, improve symbol recognition and encourage emotional awareness. Attendees focus on the process of making not the end product.
BABY ART CLUB
2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, June 7 and June 21 – 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., Saturday, June 17 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
Introduce your little learner to STEAM during this interactive program that promotes exploration and play! June 17: Boat Building.
LITERACY GYM
2:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 20 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517
Participants will play fun, active games focused on gaining literacy skills needed for lifelong readers. Each attendee will receive a literacy take-home gift. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to the event. Limited seating available.
SPIN ART PAINT PARTY
2:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 20 – North Garland Branch Library – 972-205-2804
Create an original piece of art using a spinning top. Prepare to get messy! Registration required. Begins two weeks before event.
Summer Reading Adventure
June 2-July 29
Join us on a new Summer Reading Adventure! Set your own reading goals and turn in completed goal sheets for a chance to win a grand prize. Children from infants through 6th grade can pick a free book for every completed goal sheet. Adults and teens in 7th-12th grade can turn in completed goal sheets for entries into grand prize drawings. Limit of five entries per person for each grand prize drawing. There will be one grand prize drawing for infants through pre-K, one for kinder-6th grade, four for 7th-12th grade and four for adults ages 18 and older. Max of one grand prize per person.
SUMMER READING ADVENTURE KICKOFFS
6 to 8 p.m., Friday, June 2 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
It’s a beautiful day in the South Garland neighborhood! Join us after-hours to celebrate the start of the Summer Reading Adventure with games, activities and a storybook walk.
11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturday, June 3 – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585
Families can celebrate the start of the Summer Reading Adventure with an outdoor carnival consisting of games, face painting, refreshments and more! Kona Ice will be available for kids while supplies last.
2 – 4 p.m., Saturday, June 3 – Winters Park – 972-205-2804
Come participate in activities and games for all ages — face painting, bubbles and balloon art! During our Summer Kick-Off Party, we will be accepting donations of sunscreen, sunburn alleviators (such as aloe vera), anti-itch creams and insect repellent. Items will be donated to a Garland nonprofit.
2 – 4 p.m., Sunday, June 4 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517
Stop by the Central Library Express for family-friendly games, bubbles and Kona Ice for kids while supplies last.
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. Call preferred library to register for each session.
Central Express Library – 972-205-2517 – Limited seating available.
- June 5 – Mad Science: STEM concepts
- June 13 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only.*
- June 19 – High Touch High Tech: Light Fever©
North Garland Branch Library – 972-205-2804
- June 9 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only. *
- June 17 – Mad Science: STEM concepts
South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
- June 14 – Mad Science: STEM concepts
- June 24 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only. *
- June 28 – Frontiers of Flight Museum Programs: Weather, It Matters!
Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585
- June 8 – Mad Science: STEM concepts
- June 22 – High Touch High Tech Program: Light Fever©
- June 28 – Cara Mía: Artwork inspired by the artistic traditions of Mexico *Spanish language only. *
Families
FAMILY FUN TIME – 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 7, June 21 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
Join us for an afternoon of STEAM-related activities. No registration is required.
June 7 theme: Gardening. June 21 theme: The Three Little Pigs.
BUBBLE BASH – 2:30 p.m., Monday, June 26 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517
Have fun with bubbles, groove to music and develop early science concepts while participating in sensory play. Limited seating.
Young Audiences (Ages 6-12)
FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS – Through June and July – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585
Kids can drop by 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, June 8 and June 22 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
Explore science, technology, engineering, art and math. Children ages 6-10 will discover and create through activities and challenges. Registration required and begins two weeks before events. June 8: Bottle Race Car Derby. June 22: Juggling.
ESCAPE ROOM: STEAM EDITION – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, June 10 – North Garland Branch Library – 972-205-2804
Participants will work in teams to solve STEAM-related challenges and eventually escape the room. Kids can sign up in teams of up to six participants. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to event date.
STEAM Lab – 2:30 p.m., Monday, June 12 – 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. June 12 theme: Outer Space. Limited seating.
10 a.m., Saturday, June 17 – North Garland Branch Library – 972-205-2804
Participants will explore science and engineering concepts while completing hands-on STEAM projects. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event date.
ART CLUB – 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, June 14 and June 28 – 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. June 14 theme: Tape Art. June 28 theme: Summer Rain Art.
FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS – 2:30 p.m., Thursday, June 15 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
Tweens (ages 9-13), come make a friendship bracelet for yourself or a friend! Various patterns will be available for your beautiful creations. Registration is required and begins two weeks before the event date.
PAINT PARTY – 2:30 p.m., Thursdays, June 15 and 29 – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585
Children will learn painting techniques and create their own masterpieces. June 15: Positivity paintings. June 29: Fireworks painting. Registration is required and begins two weeks before event dates.
LEGO® CLUB – 3 p.m., Saturday, June 10 – Central 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.
HAT MAKING WITH THE RAD HATTER – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, June 24 – North Garland Branch Library – 972-205-2804
Create unique wearable art from paper bags and recycled materials with the Rad Hatter. No registration required.
CHESS CLUB – 3 p.m. Saturday, June 24 – 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.
Teen Audiences (Ages 13-17)
TEEN ADVISORY BOARD – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 8 – 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 through July 25 – South Garland Branch Library – 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, June 7 and June 21 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2517
Come test your Wii gaming skills with friends, new and old. Snacks will be provided. Limited seating available.
CRAFT WITH PRIDE – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 10 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3931
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month with a craft celebration. Embrace your true colors and create your own painted rainbow heart, a colorful friendship bracelet and a tissue paper rainbow. For ages 13 and up. Registration required, begins two weeks before event.
TEEN CRAFT CORNER – 5-7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, June 14 and June 28 – 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.
TEEN ADVENTURING GUILD – 5-7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 15 – 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, June 24 – 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, June 24 – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2585
Children in grades four through eight can explore STEAM concepts while completing fun, hands-on learning activities. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event. June 24 project: storm in a bottle.
GET BREADY TO CRUMBLE! BAKE THE BOOK – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 24 – Theme: Charcuterie. Books: Boards by America’s Test Kitchen, All-Time Best Appetizers by Cook’s Illustrated, The Bread Collection by Brian Hart Hoffman, or The Big Book of Bread by Betty Crocker – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3931
Teens and adults will sign up and select recipes two weeks before 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, June 27 – 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.
BEAT THE HEAT WITH NO-BAKE DESSERTS – 2:30 p.m. Friday, June 30 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3933
Come prepare recipes that are perfect for keeping cool. Attendees can make Rice Krispie Treats (gluten and dairy free) and Oreo Truffles (gluten-free), as well as begin a recipe book with recipes for their newest creations. Registration is required and begins two weeks before event.
Adult Programs (Ages 18+)
BOOK CLUBS
MYSTERY BOOK CLUB – 6 p.m., Thursday, June 22, Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris – Walnut Creek Branch, 972-205-2585 – Library staff and attendees will discuss the selected titles.
BOOK CLUB – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 15 – South Garland Branch Library – 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, June 24 – Theme: Charcuterie. Books: Boards by America’s Test Kitchen, All-Time Best Appetizers by Cook’s Illustrated, The Bread Collection by Brian Hart Hoffman, or The Big Book of Bread by Betty Crocker – South Garland Branch Library – 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
GUESS THE BOOK ADULT SCAVENGER HUNT – Through June, library open hours – North Garland Branch – 972-205-2803
Test your book smarts with our scavenger hunt! Explore the adult section of the library to find clues, solve puzzles and win a prize!
GAME NIGHT FOR ADULTS – 6 p.m. Thursday, June 1 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533
Adults, ages 18 and older, can get together at a monthly event and play 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.
AFTER HOURS: BEGINNER LINE DANCING – 6 p.m. Friday, June 16 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3931
Come learn line dancing! 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.
CRAFTS
MAKER SPACE CLASSES – 2 p.m. Fridays, June 9 through 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 before each class. Open to teens (ages 13-17) and adults. Limited seating.
MAKER SPACE: OPEN LAB – 3 – 5 p.m. Fridays, June 9 – July 28 – 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Saturdays, June 10 – July 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, through 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 at 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 Library – 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.
MACRAME COASTER – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, June 10 – Walnut Creek Branch Library – 972-205-2587
Participants will be introduced to macramé crafting and find out what materials are needed, where to buy them, and what can be made out of macramé. Attendees will also learn two macramé knots and use those knots to make a coaster. Registration is required and begins two weeks before event.
CRAFT WITH PRIDE – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 10 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3931
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month with a craft celebration. Embrace your true colors and create your own painted rainbow heart, a colorful friendship bracelet and tissue paper rainbow. For ages 13 and up. Registration required. Begins two weeks before event.
WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP – 5 p.m. Tuesdays, June 13 & June 20 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533
During this two-part series, participants will discuss the basics and application of watercolor, as well as create their own masterpiece that pays tribute to a landscape in Garland. Limited seating available. Registration required and begins May 30.
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 through Aug. 28 – Central Library Express – 972-205-2533 – Limited seating available.
6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, June 6 through July 25 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3931
Every Body Yoga – 2 p.m. Fridays, June 9 – July 28 – South Garland Branch Library – 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.
INTRO TO MEDITATION – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, June 17 – South Garland Branch Library – 972-205-3931
Come learn the importance of meditation for health from an instructor from the Dallas Center for Mindfulness and Compassion. Attendees can see demonstrations of practices that can help develop a habit of meditation. Registration is not required.
LET’S WRITE: WRITING WORKSHOP – North Garland Branch Library – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 29
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.
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 Library.
MOUSE & KEYBOARDING FOR BEGINNERS – 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 8
DESKTOP & FILE MANAGEMENT – 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 22
Seniors (Ages 55+)
SENIOR SOCIAL HOUR
Senior Social Hour is an event for patrons aged 55 and older. Sponsored by Friends of the Library, SSH features entertainers, such as musicians and storytellers, on a monthly basis. Light refreshments are served. No registration required, but seats fill up quickly. Doors open 30 minutes before performance. Visit www.Library.GarlandTX.gov, for information.
TRIBUTE ARTISTSHERRILL DOUGLAS -2 p.m. Thursday, June 15 – North Garland Branch Library – 972-205-2803
Enjoy “Forever Vinyl”—rock and roll and classic covers performed by renowned tribute artist Sherrill Douglas.