The NIcholson Memorial Library System has announced its schedule of activities for November. There is something for everyone!
Kids participate in “I Survived” activities – Children ages 6-12 can participate in activities based on popular I Survived book series at Books and Beyond program at 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17, at the Central Library. Books and Beyond consists of book discussions and activities related to monthly themes. Participants visit activity stations related to three books in the I Survived series: I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912; I Survived the San Francisco Earthquake, 1906; and I Survived the Destruction of Pompeii, AD 79. The Titanic station will challenge attendees to construct a boat out of aluminum foil and add weight until it sinks. The Earthquake station will feature a “shake table,” where children will build structures out of Lego® bricks, then see if they are earthquake resistant. Staff will assist participants. 972-205-2516.
Children’s activities at Christmas on the Square – Children can make free holiday crafts at the library booth during Garland’s Christmas on the Square. The booth will be open from 5 to 9 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 29, in downtown Garland. Stop by for information and meet Llama Llama from the popular children’s picture book series by Anna Dewdney. Visit Friends of the Library booth for free books and another craft. Due to weather conditions, Christmas on the Square events are subject to change and/or cancellation. Central Library will close at 5 p.m. Nov. 29. 972-205-2516.
Adults watercolor with cotton swabs – Adults create pointillistic watercolor art using cotton swabs at adult craft workshop at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17 at South Garland Branch. Each craft workshop features a unique craft project or art piece. Supplies provided by library. Registration is required and begins Saturday, Nov. 3. 972-205-3931. Event sponsored by Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library System and is open to adults ages 18+.
Adults make ornaments and gifts – Adults can attend up to two craft workshops in the Holiday Makerspace Festival which is Saturday, Dec. 1 – Thursday, Dec. 20, consists of four events each featuring a different craft: Register in person or by phone. The schedule follows:
Holiday Mason Jar Votive Candle Holders, 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1, Central Library, 972-205-2502. Registration begins Saturday, Nov. 17.
Paper Ornaments Workshop, 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8, Walnut Creek Branch, 972-205-2587. Registration begins Saturday, Nov. 24.
Arm-Crochet Scarves/Cowls, 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 13, South Garland Branch, 972-205-3931. Registration begins Thursday, Nov. 29.
Holiday Cards and Handmade Gift Tags, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, North Garland Branch, 972-205-2803. Registration begins Thursday, Dec. 6.
Celebrate International Games Week – NMLS joins libraries across the world in celebrating International Games Week from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, at South Garland Branch. In today’s multi-media world, libraries embrace sources of learning and entertainment in all formats, including computers and games. Gaming at library helps patrons learn about strategy and teamwork. Library will offer card games, board games, as well as life-sized games like Jenga, Sudoku, Angry Birds. Free event is open to all ages. Registration not required. 972-205-3933.
Families enjoy free movie – Bring a blanket and attend a free movie with your family. The Walnut Creek Branch is showing Paddington 2 at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. In Paddington 2, the famous bear from the original film is living with Brown family and working odd jobs to earn money for his Aunt Lucy’s one hundredth birthday. Rated PG. Seating limited. No registration required. All ages may attend. Refreshments available while supplies last. 972-205-2585.
Lady & the Tramp sings 50s and 60s hits – Lady & the Tramp, a vocal duo, brings the 1950s and 60s to Senior Social Hour at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, at Central Library. The performance will feature rock, pop and country hits. The duo will cover tunes by Elvis, The Beatles, Buddy Holly, Bobby Darin, Carly Simon and Carole King. Sponsored by Friends of the Library, Senior Social Hour programs are free and open to anyone 55+. Donations of gently-used books and media for the Friends of the Library book sale will be accepted. No registration required, but seats fill up quickly. Doors open 30 minutes before performance. 972-205-2502.
Tweens participate in Chocolate Olympics – Tweens can participate in chocolate-themed challenges, known as the Chocolate Olympics, in November. Tween Scene is for ages 10-13 and consists of activities related to fun and interesting themes. Participants will receive book recommendations based on each theme. Program is at various library locations Thursday evenings. In November, attendees will compete against each other in six “Olympic” events: identifying slices of chocolate bars, M&M® sorting, building towers of Oreos®, rolling Whoppers® across the floor with their noses, Hershey Kiss® shuffleboard and a chocolate sprinkle relay. The first Tween Scene is at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 1, at South Garland Branch. Second is at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 8, at North Garland Branch. 972-205-3933.
Kids make leaf paintings – Children use fall leaves to create paintings at Art Explorers, a program for ages 6-12. Next event is at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at the Walnut Creek Branch. Children will learn about different types of art, then develop STEAM art skills by creating masterpieces. Registration required and limited to 24 participants. Register by phone or in person at Walnut Creek Branch beginning Saturday, Oct. 20. Supplies provided by library. 972-205-2585.
Central Library – 625 Austin Street, downtown Garland
South Garland Branch – 4845 Broadway Boulevard at Oates Road
Walnut Creek Branch – 3319 Edgewood Drive
North Garland Branch – 3845 North Garland Avenue
Due to ongoing construction, event locations might change. Visit www.library.garlandtx.gov, for latest information.
Be aware that photographs and video may be taken at library programs for use in print and/or electronic media at the library’s discretion.