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Hello Patrons of the Hackettstown Free Public Library!

As we enter into April, let's hope for the cold memories of winter to be just that and for warm weather to be in our future.

 "Spring Into Reading" began on March 1 and runs until the end of April on Beanstack. Log your reading and related activities in order to win one of six prizes. You have to be in it to win it, so please register on Beanstack today!

 

As a member of the Main Library Alliance, we transitioned to a new computer system (Koha) last month so you may notice that you have been logged out of library service accounts. This is because with our new system, your PIN has changed to the last 5 digits of the phone number we have on file. If you cannot log in, don't know which phone number we have, or want to change your PIN, please let us know and we can help you. We want you to continue enjoying the library's digital offerings.

 

We are also now offering puzzles to be checked out. Our current collection is 10, but we will slowly be adding more. Keep in mind that puzzles can be checked out for 14 days and are only available to Hackettstown Free Public Library cardholders. If you want to see what other items we have available in our "Library of Things" collection, click here for more info.

 

Of course our calendar of events is full of amazing goings-on, so please take a look and register for anything that interests you.

Come and visit us soon! We can’t wait to see you!

Hello Patrons of the Hackettstown Free Public Library!

As we enter into April, let's hope for the cold memories of winter to be just that and for warm weather to be in our future.

 "Spring Into Reading" began on March 1 and runs until the end of April on Beanstack. Log your reading and related activities in order to win one of six prizes. You have to be in it to win it, so please register on Beanstack today!

 

As a member of the Main Library Alliance, we transitioned to a new computer system (Koha) last month so you may notice that you have been logged out of library service accounts. This is because with our new system, your PIN has changed to the last 5 digits of the phone number we have on file. If you cannot log in, don't know which phone number we have, or want to change your PIN, please let us know and we can help you. We want you to continue enjoying the library's digital offerings.

 

We are also now offering puzzles to be checked out. Our current collection is 10, but we will slowly be adding more. Keep in mind that puzzles can be checked out for 14 days and are only available to Hackettstown Free Public Library cardholders. If you want to see what other items we have available in our "Library of Things" collection, click here for more info.

 

Of course our calendar of events is full of amazing goings-on, so please take a look and register for anything that interests you.

Come and visit us soon! We can’t wait to see you!

NEW AT THE LIBRARY

NEW AT THE LIBRARY

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ADULT EVENTS

ADULT EVENTS

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Friends of the Hackettstown Library’s Spring Book Sale

The Friends of the Library’s Annual Spring Book Sale is back!

Gently used books will be on hand for purchasing, along with a small number of DVDs and CDs. Bring your wallet because the sale is CASH ONLY.

Help support your local library!

Dates and Hours:

April 24, 9-8pm
April 25, 9-5pm
April 26, 10-12pm

We will be collecting donations of gently-used books for the sale starting on 4/1/25. Please no moldy books; textbooks; or out-of-date travel, medical, etc. books.

If you have any questions about the sale, please email friends@hackettstownlibrary.org

Click here to learn more about the Friends!

Learn More>>

Friends of the Hackettstown Library’s Spring Book Sale

The Friends of the Library’s Annual Spring Book Sale is back!

Gently used books will be on hand for purchasing, along with a small number of DVDs and CDs. Bring your wallet because the sale is CASH ONLY.

Help support your local library!

Dates and Hours:

April 24, 9-8pm
April 25, 9-5pm
April 26, 10-12pm

We will be collecting donations of gently-used books for the sale starting on 4/1/25. Please no moldy books; textbooks; or out-of-date travel, medical, etc. books.

If you have any questions about the sale, please email friends@hackettstownlibrary.org

Click here to learn more about the Friends!

Learn More>>

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Charcuterie Design with Fromage

Learn how to wow your guests with an impressive charcuterie board during this lesson with Luce from Fromage. Luce will show you the ins-and-outs of design and provide you with the skills you need to become the host with the most.

At the end of the program, the charcuterie board will be raffled off to one lucky attendee!

Learn More >>

Charcuterie Design with Fromage

Learn how to wow your guests with an impressive charcuterie board during this lesson with Luce from Fromage. Luce will show you the ins-and-outs of design and provide you with the skills you need to become the host with the most.

At the end of the program, the charcuterie board will be raffled off to one lucky attendee!

Learn More >>

Man Skirt Brewing Brewery Tour

Join us at Man Skirt Brewing for a tour of the facility. Owner Joe Fisher will show you the ins and outs of what it takes to brew the finest beer in Hackettstown!

This event is taking place at Man Skirt Brewing located at 144 Main St., Hackettstown.

Learn More>>

Man Skirt Brewing Brewery Tour

Join us at Man Skirt Brewing for a tour of the facility. Owner Joe Fisher will show you the ins and outs of what it takes to brew the finest beer in Hackettstown!

This event is taking place at Man Skirt Brewing located at 144 Main St., Hackettstown.

Learn More>>

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The Mysteries of the 1777 Battle of Navesink

Accounts of the history of the Revolutionary War often overlook the Battle of Navesink. The war was less than a year old when the First Regiment of the Monmouth Militia occupied a hillside lookout station in February 1777. Surprised by British regulars during a cold winter’s night, 25 militiamen were killed, while 72 were captured and sent to the notorious Sugar House Prison where many perished. Although 40 men escaped, some of these died during their flight. It was a disaster for the Monmouth Militia. Please join us for this illustrated talk where Rick Geffken reveals the actual battle site, then and now; the combatants who took part, and the impact on both sides due to this crucial early engagement.

This program is presented on ZOOM by the New Jersey State Library.

Learn More>>

The Mysteries of the 1777 Battle of Navesink

Accounts of the history of the Revolutionary War often overlook the Battle of Navesink. The war was less than a year old when the First Regiment of the Monmouth Militia occupied a hillside lookout station in February 1777. Surprised by British regulars during a cold winter’s night, 25 militiamen were killed, while 72 were captured and sent to the notorious Sugar House Prison where many perished. Although 40 men escaped, some of these died during their flight. It was a disaster for the Monmouth Militia. Please join us for this illustrated talk where Rick Geffken reveals the actual battle site, then and now; the combatants who took part, and the impact on both sides due to this crucial early engagement.

This program is presented on ZOOM by the New Jersey State Library.

Learn More>>

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Into the Icy Deep : Marine Life, Sea Ice & Conservation

Join Amanda Hunter, marine biologist and polar expedition guide, on a captivating journey across the polar oceans in celebration of Earth Day. Dive into the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic, from tiny phytoplankton to majestic seals and whales, while uncovering the vital role of sea ice in Earth’s climate. Amanda will also discuss the fascinating physical and chemical properties of polar waters and how they shape marine life. Examine the effects of human activities — from early exploration to the pressing challenges of climate change, pollution and overfishing — to better understand why conserving these remote regions is vital to the health of our planet.

This program is presented on ZOOM by Road Scholar.

Learn More>>

 

Into the Icy Deep : Marine Life, Sea Ice & Conservation

Join Amanda Hunter, marine biologist and polar expedition guide, on a captivating journey across the polar oceans in celebration of Earth Day. Dive into the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic, from tiny phytoplankton to majestic seals and whales, while uncovering the vital role of sea ice in Earth’s climate. Amanda will also discuss the fascinating physical and chemical properties of polar waters and how they shape marine life. Examine the effects of human activities — from early exploration to the pressing challenges of climate change, pollution and overfishing — to better understand why conserving these remote regions is vital to the health of our planet.

This program is presented on ZOOM by Road Scholar.

Learn More>>

 

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The Making and Tasting of Everitt House B&B Tea Blends

Enjoy a delicious evening with Kelsey Walter (GM of Greene’s Beans Cafe) and Ricardo Alvarado (co-owner of Everitt House B&B) as they showcase a variety of specialty teas, including the 1875 Palmer. Attendees will get to sample each tea and learn the intricacies of how the incredible 1875 Palmer is made.

Learn More >>

The Making and Tasting of Everitt House B&B Tea Blends

Enjoy a delicious evening with Kelsey Walter (GM of Greene’s Beans Cafe) and Ricardo Alvarado (co-owner of Everitt House B&B) as they showcase a variety of specialty teas, including the 1875 Palmer. Attendees will get to sample each tea and learn the intricacies of how the incredible 1875 Palmer is made.

Learn More >>

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Unsinkable Titanic Children

Over 113 years later, accounts of the unsinkable RMS Titanic still resonate. Discover what people endured during that fateful night in April 1912 when 1500+ persons sadly lost their lives. Nevertheless, a number of children in First, Second, and Third Class did survive. Meet some of these youngest and most vulnerable passengers. Learn about their experiences during the tragic voyage as well as how they fared afterward.

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Unsinkable Titanic Children

Over 113 years later, accounts of the unsinkable RMS Titanic still resonate. Discover what people endured during that fateful night in April 1912 when 1500+ persons sadly lost their lives. Nevertheless, a number of children in First, Second, and Third Class did survive. Meet some of these youngest and most vulnerable passengers. Learn about their experiences during the tragic voyage as well as how they fared afterward.

Learn More>

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The History of the High Iron Railroad Company Author Talk

Join local author Hank Webber as he explains the history of the High Iron Company, leader of more than 80 steam locomotive excursions in the Northeast from 1966-1973.

Learn about engines such as the NKP 759, Horseshoe Curve, and more!

Hank will also be selling copies of his book The History of the High Iron Company 1966-1973.

Learn More>>

The History of the High Iron Railroad Company Author Talk

Join local author Hank Webber as he explains the history of the High Iron Company, leader of more than 80 steam locomotive excursions in the Northeast from 1966-1973.

Learn about engines such as the NKP 759, Horseshoe Curve, and more!

Hank will also be selling copies of his book The History of the High Iron Company 1966-1973.

Learn More>>

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Scrabble Club

Are you looking for a place to have fun and meet new friends while keeping your mind sharp or improving your English skills? Come to the Scrabble Club! It’s the original “Words with Friends!”

Play the board game Scrabble with others and enjoy a morning at the library. Even if you have never played the game before (or not in a long time), we will teach you.

This program is intended for adults.

Learn More >>

Scrabble Club

Are you looking for a place to have fun and meet new friends while keeping your mind sharp or improving your English skills? Come to the Scrabble Club! It’s the original “Words with Friends!”

Play the board game Scrabble with others and enjoy a morning at the library. Even if you have never played the game before (or not in a long time), we will teach you.

This program is intended for adults.

Learn More >>

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Evening Book Club

Join us for a meeting of lively discussion at the library. Each month’s book selection is determined at the previous meeting. Info will be updated when the book is chosen.

This month’s book selection is : ‘The Only Woman in the Room’ by Marie Benedict

Learn More >>

Evening Book Club

Join us for a meeting of lively discussion at the library. Each month’s book selection is determined at the previous meeting. Info will be updated when the book is chosen.

This month’s book selection is : ‘The Only Woman in the Room’ by Marie Benedict

Learn More >>

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How to Channel Through Automatic Writing

Join Nathalie as she helps you discover how we can channel wisdom and knowledge through automatic writing.
Some of the keys points that will be discussed are:

  • Why channel?
  • Whom do we channel and how do we protect?
  • Channeling through writing
  • Tips and pitfalls on how to channel

Please bring a pen and paper so you can practice channeling through writing with Nathalie and other attendees.

Learn More>>

 

How to Channel Through Automatic Writing

Join Nathalie as she helps you discover how we can channel wisdom and knowledge through automatic writing.
Some of the keys points that will be discussed are:

  • Why channel?
  • Whom do we channel and how do we protect?
  • Channeling through writing
  • Tips and pitfalls on how to channel

Please bring a pen and paper so you can practice channeling through writing with Nathalie and other attendees.

Learn More>>

 

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The History and Intuition of Tarot Part 2

Join Amanda from Aries Moon Crystals to learn more about the history of tarot and divination. Amanda views tarot from an intuitive approach.

In this session she will focus on the major arcana.

Feel free to bring your own tarot deck as you’ll have the opportunity to connect with the cards.

You do not have to have attended part 1 to attend.

Learn More >>

The History and Intuition of Tarot Part 2

Join Amanda from Aries Moon Crystals to learn more about the history of tarot and divination. Amanda views tarot from an intuitive approach.

In this session she will focus on the major arcana.

Feel free to bring your own tarot deck as you’ll have the opportunity to connect with the cards.

You do not have to have attended part 1 to attend.

Learn More >>

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The Battle of Seven Pines/Fair Oaks: Disaster Avoided or Lost Opportunity?

For most students of the Civil War, the only factor they can recall of the May 31, 1862, Battle of Seven Pines/Fair Oaks, is that the battle resulted in Confederate General Robert E. Lee rising into command of Confederate armies in the east. What many fail to realize is just how close the Confederacy came to complete victory and how the battle became a near disaster for Union General George B. McClellan. Be it a disaster avoided or a lost opportunity, the fact remains the Battle of Seven Pines/Fair Oaks remains one of the most misunderstood battles of the American Civil War.

This Program is presented on ZOOM Learn More>>

The Battle of Seven Pines/Fair Oaks: Disaster Avoided or Lost Opportunity?

For most students of the Civil War, the only factor they can recall of the May 31, 1862, Battle of Seven Pines/Fair Oaks, is that the battle resulted in Confederate General Robert E. Lee rising into command of Confederate armies in the east. What many fail to realize is just how close the Confederacy came to complete victory and how the battle became a near disaster for Union General George B. McClellan. Be it a disaster avoided or a lost opportunity, the fact remains the Battle of Seven Pines/Fair Oaks remains one of the most misunderstood battles of the American Civil War.

This Program is presented on ZOOM Learn More>>

All About Rain Gardens

Join the Musconetcong Watershed Association at the Hackettstown Library for an engaging presentation on rain gardens—beautiful, low-maintenance native plant gardens that help manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and provide habitat for pollinators like butterflies, as well as filter pollutants before they reach our rivers and streams.

You’ll get a hands-on look at a local Eagle Scout rain garden project right on site and learn how these gardens support clean water and healthy habitats.
This event is the perfect primer for our upcoming Rain Barrel Workshop and Native Plant Sale this May, where you’ll have more opportunities to take action for your home, your yard, and your watershed!
Presented by Christa Reeves of the Musconetcong Watershed Association.
Learn More>>
 

All About Rain Gardens

Join the Musconetcong Watershed Association at the Hackettstown Library for an engaging presentation on rain gardens—beautiful, low-maintenance native plant gardens that help manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and provide habitat for pollinators like butterflies, as well as filter pollutants before they reach our rivers and streams.

You’ll get a hands-on look at a local Eagle Scout rain garden project right on site and learn how these gardens support clean water and healthy habitats.
This event is the perfect primer for our upcoming Rain Barrel Workshop and Native Plant Sale this May, where you’ll have more opportunities to take action for your home, your yard, and your watershed!
Presented by Christa Reeves of the Musconetcong Watershed Association.
Learn More>>
 

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What Is an End-of-Life Doula?

An end-of-life doula provides emotional and practical support for individuals and families navigating the complexities of the dying process. Join Lee Ellison from Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice to learn about all the ways end-of-life doulas can help your family, and how to get certified as an end-of-life doula.

Learn More>>

What Is an End-of-Life Doula?

An end-of-life doula provides emotional and practical support for individuals and families navigating the complexities of the dying process. Join Lee Ellison from Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice to learn about all the ways end-of-life doulas can help your family, and how to get certified as an end-of-life doula.

Learn More>>

Coping With Deer

What is the biggest nuisance when it comes gardening? Many people will respond with pests, particularly deer. White-tailed deer were virtually extinct in the late 1800s in NJ, but through conservation efforts, in can seem like they are everywhere. Please join us as Rutgers Master Gardener Jean Miller discusses the reasons for their current population and how understanding their biology and behavior can help the gardener with strategies to mitigate deer damage.

This program is presented on ZOOM.

Learn More>>

Coping With Deer

What is the biggest nuisance when it comes gardening? Many people will respond with pests, particularly deer. White-tailed deer were virtually extinct in the late 1800s in NJ, but through conservation efforts, in can seem like they are everywhere. Please join us as Rutgers Master Gardener Jean Miller discusses the reasons for their current population and how understanding their biology and behavior can help the gardener with strategies to mitigate deer damage.

This program is presented on ZOOM.

Learn More>>

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Listen More, Talk Less: A Key to Career Success

Too often people fret that they either do not know how to start a networking conversation or cannot remember the people they spoke to. In most cases, being better listeners make both these concerns disappear. This interactive workshop will allow participants to practice new or existing listening skills. Perfect 3 types of listening – Intentional, Inquisitive, and Reflective. Learn how better listening and less talking makes others more memorable.

This program is presented on ZOOM.

Learn More>>

Listen More, Talk Less: A Key to Career Success

Too often people fret that they either do not know how to start a networking conversation or cannot remember the people they spoke to. In most cases, being better listeners make both these concerns disappear. This interactive workshop will allow participants to practice new or existing listening skills. Perfect 3 types of listening – Intentional, Inquisitive, and Reflective. Learn how better listening and less talking makes others more memorable.

This program is presented on ZOOM.

Learn More>>

Securing Your Future: Medicare & Social Security Essentials

Join our experts Megan & Janeen Brady, with Cornerstone Health Benefits, and Erin Madonna, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, for an informative presentation on the essentials of Medicare and Social Security.

Don’t forget to bring a friend and your questions!

Light refreshments will be provided.

Learn More>>

Securing Your Future: Medicare & Social Security Essentials

Join our experts Megan & Janeen Brady, with Cornerstone Health Benefits, and Erin Madonna, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, for an informative presentation on the essentials of Medicare and Social Security.

Don’t forget to bring a friend and your questions!

Light refreshments will be provided.

Learn More>>

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In Defense of Carl Schurz

Carl Schurz, a “forgotten patriot,” was one of the most influential men in the nineteenth century America who led German revolutionary refugees known as “the 48ers” to make major contributions to American society. His career  as a reformer, orator, foreign ambassador, Civil War General, United States Senator, Secretary of the Interior, and newspaper editorial writer was instrumental for the abolition of slavery, Civil Service Reform, Southern Reconstruction, Indian Affairs, and general “muckraking” in the face of old-school backroom politics.

However, he is now being accused of being a racist, a coward, and an abuser of indigenous peoples. Professor Julius Wilm, in his current study of “Indian” schools has concluded that Schurz as Secretary of the Interior from 1877-1881 abused Native Americans in the schools and former slaves in the South. The current Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland has supported this viewpoint. Dr. Lubrecht, author of two books on Carl Schurz, believes these allegations are untrue and will defend him using personal letters and newspaper articles.

This program is open to the public and will feature refreshments. It will be taking place at the Schenk Lodge at House of the Good Shepherd – 798 Willow Grove St., Hackettstown.

This program is presented in-person and on ZOOM.

Learn More >>

In Defense of Carl Schurz

Carl Schurz, a “forgotten patriot,” was one of the most influential men in the nineteenth century America who led German revolutionary refugees known as “the 48ers” to make major contributions to American society. His career  as a reformer, orator, foreign ambassador, Civil War General, United States Senator, Secretary of the Interior, and newspaper editorial writer was instrumental for the abolition of slavery, Civil Service Reform, Southern Reconstruction, Indian Affairs, and general “muckraking” in the face of old-school backroom politics.

However, he is now being accused of being a racist, a coward, and an abuser of indigenous peoples. Professor Julius Wilm, in his current study of “Indian” schools has concluded that Schurz as Secretary of the Interior from 1877-1881 abused Native Americans in the schools and former slaves in the South. The current Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland has supported this viewpoint. Dr. Lubrecht, author of two books on Carl Schurz, believes these allegations are untrue and will defend him using personal letters and newspaper articles.

This program is open to the public and will feature refreshments. It will be taking place at the Schenk Lodge at House of the Good Shepherd – 798 Willow Grove St., Hackettstown.

This program is presented in-person and on ZOOM.

Learn More >>

TEEN EVENTS

TEEN EVENTS

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Teen Craft Night: Canvas Painting

Tweens and Teens! Stop by the library for a night of crafting! Wednesday April 23rd at 5:30pm. Open to ages 9-18. Please register online.

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Teen Craft Night: Canvas Painting

Tweens and Teens! Stop by the library for a night of crafting! Wednesday April 23rd at 5:30pm. Open to ages 9-18. Please register online.

Learn More >>

 Anime Club: Teen

Teens! Stop by the library to watch your favorite anime, discover a new series, or connect with new friends! Open to ages 12-15. Please register online.

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 Anime Club: Teen

Teens! Stop by the library to watch your favorite anime, discover a new series, or connect with new friends! Open to ages 12-15. Please register online.

Learn More >>

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Imagine, Dragons: a Teen/Tween DnD Club

Join our Dungeons and Dragons campaign specifically for tweens and teens!

Register now to get on the team!
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Imagine, Dragons: a Teen/Tween DnD Club

Join our Dungeons and Dragons campaign specifically for tweens and teens!

Register now to get on the team!
Learn More>>

CHILDREN EVENTS

CHILDREN EVENTS

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Get into S.T.E.A.M.

Let’s strengthen your science, technology, engineering, art, and/or math skills once a month! Your child will be able to participate in an engaging engineering activity to test their S.T.E.A.M. skills.

 

For ages 5 and over. Please register each child separately.

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For ages 5 and under. Please register each child separately.

Learn More>>

Get into S.T.E.A.M.

Let’s strengthen your science, technology, engineering, art, and/or math skills once a month! Your child will be able to participate in an engaging engineering activity to test their S.T.E.A.M. skills.

 

For ages 5 and over. Please register each child separately.

Learn More >>

For ages 5 and under. Please register each child separately.

Learn More>>

 LEGO Club

Come join us for LEGO Club twice a month! Each session will have a different theme and/or challenge to complete with your friends.

For ages 5 and up.

Please register each child separately, space is limited.

Learn More >>

 

 LEGO Club

Come join us for LEGO Club twice a month! Each session will have a different theme and/or challenge to complete with your friends.

For ages 5 and up.

Please register each child separately, space is limited.

Learn More >>

 

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Story Craft Club

Join us one Saturday a month for a super creative craft-focused story time! Every First Saturday of the Month @11am.

Open to children of all ages!

Please register; space is limited!

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Story Craft Club

Join us one Saturday a month for a super creative craft-focused story time! Every First Saturday of the Month @11am.

Open to children of all ages!

Please register; space is limited!

Learn More>>

Cut N’ Paste: Kids’ Scrapbooking

Join us for our monthly kids’ scrapbooking program!

Bring in your own photos, or use some of ours! Supplies will be provided.

Please register; space is limited.

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Cut N’ Paste: Kids’ Scrapbooking

Join us for our monthly kids’ scrapbooking program!

Bring in your own photos, or use some of ours! Supplies will be provided.

Please register; space is limited.

Learn More>>

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Wednesday Story Time

Join Ms. Rebecca in a fun-filled story time with an exciting new theme every week!

Open to children ages 1-5.

Please register for only one time slot.

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Wednesday Story Time

Join Ms. Rebecca in a fun-filled story time with an exciting new theme every week!

Open to children ages 1-5.

Please register for only one time slot.

Learn More >>

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Starry Story Time
Join us every other Thursday for an evening of story time fun with Miss Rebecca! There will be songs, crafts, and of course, super awesome stories!

Please register each child separately, as space is limited

Learn More >>

Starry Story Time
Join us every other Thursday for an evening of story time fun with Miss Rebecca! There will be songs, crafts, and of course, super awesome stories!

Please register each child separately, as space is limited

Learn More >>

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