The Perry Public Library and Hometown Heritage at the Carnegie Library Museum have announced the following programs for July 2024.
Children’s Summer Library Program: June 1 – July 31
Are you ready for a summer full of adventure? The Perry Public Library offers exciting and engaging Children’s Summer Library programs for babies, preschoolers, and elementary-aged students all the way up to 5th grade! Each age group will enjoy regular, weekly meet-ups that include stories, activities, and even crafts. Plus, we’ll host special events and guests, including the Blank Park Zoo, ISU Extension, and the Do Art Comic Workshop! Every event will follow our summer theme of “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” inviting you to explore new places, ideas, and, of course, books.
Be sure to visit our website at www.perry.lib.ia.us to learn all about how to register, participate, and enter to win amazing prizes. This is a free program, with three grand prizes for kids in preschool to 5th grade, including a chance to win
- (Prize 1) an 18-inch Doll with Handmade Clothes and 2 Books,
- (Prize 2) a Botley Stem Robot and Lego Race Car Kit, or
- (Prize 3) A Kindle Fire Kids Pro.
Children ages 3 and under in the Wee Wonders program will be entered to win a “Wee Wonders Choice” grand prize package. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call the library for more information at 515-465-3569.
Teen Summer Library Program: June 1 – July 31
This summer, teens are invited to complete quests, gain experience points, level up, and earn prizes during our Teen Summer Library Program! Our “Adventure Begins at Your Library” theme will mix things up this year by asking teens to track reading minutes and complete other adventure-themed quests to earn experience points, prizes, and grand prize entries. Plus, clear your Friday afternoons in June and July (plus one extra-special Wednesday) for amazing activities selected by our Teen Advisory Group. These include A Do Art Comic Book Workshop, Throw Throw Burrito Extreme Outdoor Edition, and a Life-Size CLUE game, just to name a few.
Be sure to visit our website at www.perry.lib.ia.us to learn all about how to register, participate, and enter to win amazing prizes. This is a free program, with three grand-prizes for teens (recent graduates of 6th to 12th grades), including
- (Prize 1) a giant 5-foot tall Teddy Bear,
- (Prize 2) a LEGO Harry Potter Sorting Hat, or
- (Prize 3) a Bundle of Card Games.
For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call the library for more information at 515-465-3569.
Adult Summer Library Program: June 1 – July 31
Whether you love to travel near or far, in the pages of a book, by air or by bicycle, you won’t want to miss this year’s Adult Summer Library Program. This year, we’re combining exciting reading challenges, engaging programs, and thrilling prizes for adult participants, all because “Adventure begins at your library!” Join us this summer for fun gatherings, like a mystery detective “Signature Sleuths” game, a Book Tasting, and a lunch presentation by author and adventurer Hank Kohler.
Plus, each week we’ll have a weekly drawing for a fun travel-themed prize, so be sure to register early and participate often to get weekly and grand prize entries. Additionally, your grand prize entries can be placed in your choice of drawings for a kayak, cart griddle, glider bench swing, portable power jump starter and stadium seats, or a two-person hammock! Be sure to visit our website at www.perry.lib.ia.us to learn all about how to register, participate, and enter to win. For more information, go to our website, visit the library, or call the library for more information at 515-465-3569.
July Grab and Go Adult Craft Kit – Free DIY Map Adventure Art
Learn how to upcycle old maps in a creative way with this month’s craft. While we’ll be using vintage map printouts, participants can easily grab an old map of any kind. This is an excellent way to preserve a memory of a favorite campground, national park, city, or country! Adult patrons can bring home one Free July Grab and Go Adult Craft Kit from the Perry Public Library. This craft kit includes materials and instructions for one DIY Mapy Adventure Art. This July Grab and Go Craft is free, courtesy of the Perry Public Library, and available while supplies last. For questions, visit www.perry.lib.ia.us or call 515-465-3569.
July Grab and Go Teen Craft Kit – DIY Suncatcher
Create some eye-catching window décor this summer with our July Grab and Go Teen Craft Kit. Teens, 12 to 18, are invited to come into the library during July to pick up a Free Grab and Go Teen Craft Kit! This month’s kit includes supplies to make your own OAK suncatcher out of glass beads. Teen patrons can bring home one Free July Grab and Go Teen Craft Kit from the Perry Public Library. This craft kit includes materials and instructions for one DIY Suncatcher Kit. This June Grab and Go Craft is free, courtesy of the Perry Public Library, and available while supplies last. For questions, visit www.perry.lib.ia.us or call 515-465-3569.
Novel-Teas Book Match: A Monthly Program for Adults
We think a good book and a delicious cup of tea are the perfect pairing. With our Adult Novel-Teas Book Match program, participants can sign up each month to receive an individualized book recommendation, with a complementary tea pairing. Simply register, and complete the personalized Book Match Form by July 15, and our Adult Services Librarian, Mindy, will help you find your next book, while our tea enthusiast, Trista, will select your tea. June Book Matches will be available for patrons to pick up beginning Thursday, August 1st. Patrons must be 18+ to participate and spots are limited. To register and complete your survey, visit www.perry.lib.ia.us for an online form or visit the library for a paper version. This is a free program. For questions, visit our website or call 515-465-3569.
Hometown Heritage at the Carnegie Library Museum Presents the What is Adventure? Exhibit – July 1 to July 27
Visit the What is Adventure? Exhibit at the Carnegie Library Museum through July 27! This all-ages exhibit explores adventure in all it’s forms and includes displays featuring Iowas across the United States, some of the many oddities all around Iowa, US National Parks, worldwide adventures, and fictional, fantasy adventures. Enjoy this free exhibit during open summer hours at the Carnegie Library Museum in June and July. This is a free program. For questions, visit our website or call 515-465-7713.
Dallas County Conservation: Smokey the Bear Program and Visit to the Forest Park Museum – July 1
Dallas County Conservation will host a program about Smokey Bear, the fire safety symbol that is celebrating his 80th birthday this year, at the Forest Park Museum on Monday, July 1, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. The Forset Park Museum is located just south of Perry at 14581 K Ave. After the program, families are welcome to wander around the museum and grounds, which include a historical one-room schoolhouse, a log cabin, a prairie, an arboretum, and a connection to the Raccoon River Valley Trail. This is a free program and no registration is required. For questions, visit our website at www.perry.lib.ia, talk with a librarian, or call 515-465-3569.
Adventure in the World of Dungeons and Dragons: Tuesdays – July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Join D&D enthusiast, Alex, as she invites players into the world of Dungeons and Dragons this June and July! Alex will guide players through the Lost Mine of Phandelver campaign, a perfect beginner’s campaign for anyone new to DND5E. Sessions are designed to lead you through character creation, understanding the game, and immersing yourself in the campaign. Whether you are new to Dungeons and Dragons, or a more experienced player, patrons 10 and older are invited to join us in the Perry Public Library Community Room on Tuesday nights in June and July for a thrilling adventure! We will meet from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, and July 30. This is a free program and no registration is required. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569
3 to 5-Year-Olds July Summer Storytimes – July 2, 9, 16, 23
You’re invited to join us for a series of summer adventures for 3 to 5-year-olds that include a story, fun activity, and engaging craft! This group will meet on Tuesdays in July from 10:30 am to 11:15 am in the Community Room unless there is a special summer program. The July 3 to 5-Year-Olds schedule is as follows:
July 2: Theme: Adventures in Imagination – Unicorns and Dragons
Jul7 9: Theme: Adventures in the Dark
July 16: Theme: Prehistoric Adventures – Dinosaurs
July 23: Theme: Adventures Under the Sea – Shark Week!
Kindergarten through 2nd Grades June Summer Storytimes – July 2, 9, 16, 23
Go on an adventure with us all throughout June as we welcome K-2nd graders to Summer Storytimes that include a story, fun activity, and engaging craft! This group will meet on Tuesdays in Julu from 2:30 pm to 3:15 pm in the Community Room unless there is a special summer program. The July K-2nd schedule is as follows:
July 2: Theme: Adventures in Imagination – Unicorns and Dragons
Jul7 9: Theme: Adventures in the Dark
July 16: Theme: Prehistoric Adventures – Dinosaurs
July 23: Theme: Adventures Under the Sea – Shark Week!
3rd to 5th Grades July Choose Your Own Adventure Book Club– July 3, 10, 17, 24
This summer, 3rd through 5th graders are invited to join our Choose Your Own Adventure Club! Each week, we’ll read a new adventure – and choose our path – then create a unique craft. This group will meet on Wednesdays from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm; unless there is a special summer program. The July 3rd to 5th schedule is as follows:
July 3: Theme: Unicorns
July 10: Theme: Mayans
July 17: Theme: Ninjas
July 24: Theme: Mystery
Fresh Conversations with Aging Resources of Central Iowa: July 3
Fresh Conversations is a free nutrition and physical education program for ages 60+. The program offers practical tips and sensible solutions to everyday problems that get in the way of doing what most people want to do: eat well and live well! Fresh Conversations is also an opportunity to connect with other adults for a friendly group discussion. We will meet to discuss our July topic, plus try a tasty recipe on Wednesday, July 3, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm in the Perry Public Library Community Room. This is a monthly, free event held the first Wednesday of each month for adults ages 60+, and no registration is required. For more information, call the library at 515-465-3569 or visit www.perry.lib.ia.us.
July Wee Wonders Storytime (Babies through 24 months) – July 5, 12, 26
The Wee Wonders Summer Library Program for babies through age 2 and their adult caregivers meets on Fridays through June and July from 10:30 am to 11:15 am. We read board books, sing lots of songs, do scarf and shaker activities, sensory play and so much more! We will meet July 5, July 12, and July 26. This is an excellent way to encourage early literacy skills and make new friends! Registration is required and log sheets will be available to earn prizes all summer long. A special grand prize tailored to children under age 3 is also available. This is a free program and registration is required. For more information, visit www.perry.lib.us, call 515-465-3569, or come to the library.
Teen Amazing Race Challenge – July 5
Just like the popular television show, teams must follow clues and compete road blocks and detours in a race around the world! Bring your friends and your sense of adventure for this free teen activity on Friday, July 5, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. This is a free activity for ages 12 to 18 and no registration is required. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569.
Signature Sleuths Adult Summer Library Activity – July 11
For many of us, adventure begins in the pages of a good mystery, following our favorite fictional detectives as they follow the clues to solve cases. Join us on Thursday, July 11, from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm in the Community Room, as we celebrate this love of thrillers, mysteries, and great detectives with our Signature Sleuths Game. Arrive dressed as your favorite fictional detective and see if you can guess the other sleuths in the room before the night is up. Come immerse yourself in an evening full of games, trivia, snacks, and friends! This is an Adult Summer Library Activity for individuals 18 and older. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569.
Chess Club at the Library – July 11, 18, 25
Are you interested in learning how to play chess? Do you already know how to play, but are looking for some local players to challenge? Could you use some tips and practice to improve your skill level? Local Chess Instructor David Oliveira is partnering with the Perry Public Library to teach, mentor, and play chess with players of all ages and experience levels. Whether you are new to chess or looking for a challenging game, mark your Thursday evenings in April for chess instruction and walk-in play at the Library. Students, grades K-12, will meet from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm, in the library Board Room. Chess players of all ages are then welcome to meet from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, also in the Board Room, for instruction or competition. There will be no Chess on July 4th, due to the Independence Day holiday. David Oliveira leads the group meetings and also offers chess instruction by individual appointments as part of the library program. Call the library for more information or to arrange a time at 515-465-3569. This is a free program and no registration is required. For more information, visit www.perry.lib.us, call 515-465-3569, or come to the library.
Teen Murder Mystery Party: Life-Size CLUE Game – July 12
Who dunnit? Everyone who comes will get a character to play! Are you the murderer? Who will solve the mystery? Did the guilty party do it with the dictionary in the children’s area? Or was it with the scanner in the tween zone? Join us for a Life-Size CLUE Game in the library on Friday, July 12, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. This is a free activity for ages 12 to 18 and no registration is required. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569.
Kids’ Movie Monday – July 15
Kids are invited to come to the library on July 15 for a fun, animated film. Kids’ Movie Monday will be held in the Library Community Room on July 15 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. We’ll provide the movie and snacks – you bring a cozy blanket or pillow to stay comfortable during the show. We’re excited to welcome families into the library this summer and want to remind caregivers that children under the age of 6 must have an adult (age 18 or older) present during the program and children between ages 6 and 9 must have an adult present somewhere in the library. For more information about this free program, visit www.perry.lib.ia.us, call 515-465-3569, or ask a librarian.
Monthly Book Club: The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan – July 16
The Monthly Book Club will discuss Timothy Egan’s The Worst Hard Time, where he follows a dozen families and their communities through the dark years of the Great Depression. We will meet on Tuesday, June 18, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm in the Library Community Room to discuss this month’s book selection, called “arguably the best nonfiction book yet” by Austin Statesman Journal. Everyone interested is invited to join the discussion and participation is free. Books can be purchased in advance for a small fee from the library or borrowed with your Perry Public Library card. For more information, visit www.perry.lib.us, call 515-465-3569, or come to the library.
ISU Extension: Travel Adventure (K-5th Grades) – July 19
Kids in Kindergarten through 5th grades are invited to join us for an exciting ISU Extension program on Friday, July 19, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. For this program, participants are invited to, “ Choose your own travel destination anywhere from the exotic jungles of Africa to the beauty of mountains at Bryce Canyon in Utah to kayaking in Blue Heron Lake in West Des Moines, Iowa. Come on an exciting 2- hour adventure.” Registration is required for this program by July 18, along with a minimum number of participants. Please reserve your space early at www.perry.lib.ia.us, by visiting the library, or by calling 515-465-3569.
Teen Brush-Bot Races – July 19
On your marks, get set, go! Teens are invited to come to the library on Friday, July 19, to make their own mini hexbots, then race them around the community room. Join us from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm for this challenge to both your building and racing skills. This is a free activity for ages 12 to 18 and no registration is required. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569.
Book Tasting Adult Summer Library Activity – July 23
The library stacks offer a wonderful variety of genres, authors, and titles! Do you ever wander the stacks and wish you could get a better “taste” of all we have to offer? This summer, you can! Join us for a Book Tasting on Tuesday, July 23, featuring samples from ten genres (along with some yummy treats). We will meet in the Carnegie Library Museum from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. This is a free adult activity and no registration is required. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569.
Teen Therapy Pets and Journaling – July 26
The Animal Rescue League of Des Moines is bringing therapy cats and dogs for a visit with our teen patrons on Friday, July 26, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Come for a cuddle; stay for a purr! We will also have journals available for teens to write or draw in. Join us for a fun, free, relaxing time. This is a free activity for ages 12 to 18 and no registration is required. For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569.
Paper Crafting with Kathy: Christmas in July – July 27
We’re bringing back a fan-favorite this month – Christmas in July! Join Kathy in making fun Christmas-themed cards to prepare for the upcoming holidays and learn new ideas for this year’s cards and gifts. Kathy Miller leads this series of monthly how-to workshops featuring different paper crafting techniques and creative designs for making greeting cards. The craft series will be held one Saturday each month. We will meet on Saturday, July 27, in the Library Community Room from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. The class is free, but space is limited and registration is required. Registration closes on July 15. All materials will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own supplies. For more information, visit www.perry.lib.ia.us, call 515-465-3569, or ask a librarian.
Saturday Crafternoons – July 27
Are you looking for a quiet, community space to craft? Then, we have the perfect Saturday event for you! The Perry Public Library welcomes crafters and do-it-yourselfers to our dedicated makerspace – now following Paper Crafting with Kathy. You bring your ideas and supplies and we’ll supply the crafting space. Saturday Crafternoons last from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm in the Library Community Room and offer a free community space to work on projects in a comfortable environment. Plan your next work session for Saturday, July 27, at the library. Tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and everyone is invited. No reservations and no charge! For more information, go to www.perry.lib.ia.us, visit the library, or call 515-465-3569.
July Adult Craft Club – July 29
Join Candi this July as she shows Adult Craft Club participants how to fold books into unique designs. Participants will have two to three design options they can choose from to create decorative book displays. The July Adult Craft Club will meet on Monday, July 29, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm in the Community Room. Supplies and instruction are provided free of charge, but space is limited and registration is required by July 22. To register, visit www.perry.lib.ia.us, call the library at 515-465-3569, or speak with a librarian.
Children’s Summer Library Program Finale: Summer Games – August 1
As our send-off to the Children’s Summer Library Program and in honor of the worldwide sporting event beginning in Paris, the Perry Public Library will host our own Summer Games. On Thursday, August 2, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm we’ll host a series of games for children to participate in, including riding pool noodle “horses,” a water balloon toss, a hula hoop contest, balance beam, and more! Every child will get a medal! There will be snacks and we will announce the winners of the Grand Prizes. This is a free program and no registration is required. For more information, visit www.perry.lib.us, call 515-465-3569, or come to the library.
Teen Summer Library Program Finale – August 2
Close out a summer of fun with a Nerf Free-for-All on Friday, August 2, from 5:50 pm to 8:00 pm! We will take over the library after it closes and have a Nerf party! No place is safe! Pizza, chips and dip, and soda will be provided. We will also announce the Grand Prize winners! Be sure to arrive before 6:00 pm before the doors close for the evening. This is a free program and no registration is required. For more information, visit www.perry.lib.us, call 515-465-3569, or come to the library.
Adult Summer Library Program Finale Party – August 2
We’re closing out a summer full of adventure with our Adult Summer Library Program Summer Finale 2024 at the Tin Pig Tavern! Join us for appetizers, games, friends, and the announcement of this summer’s HUGE grand prize winners! We’ll be at the Tin Pig on Friday, August 2, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Adult patrons 18+ are invited to come join the fun and send summer off with one last celebration.
