May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for Girls

Meet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around! Soon, she’s caught up with a witch, a jinn, a death-dealing talking bird, a stone prince, and some oily wizards.

Join us on Thursday, May 1, at 6:30 PM in the Community Room as we discuss Patricia C. Wrede’s Dealing with Dragons! This will be our last book club for readers ages 8-11 and their accompanying adults before Summer Reading. See you there!

Family Friendly Films

Looking for a fun movie afternoon on the big screen? Join us on Friday, May 2, at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for a showing of Dog Man (PG)!

All ages are welcome, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen the film to ensure it’s right for your little movie fans!

Armchair Traveler Challenge: Apprentice Artist

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair travelers will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Sign up today at the Library Circulation Desk!

Summer Reading is Coming!

Programs are limited in May while we prepare, including no early literacy (Story Time, etc.)

Sign-ups will begin Monday, June 2!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

May Adult Programs

May Adult Programs

May Adult Programs

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Crafty Corner

Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up for adults 18+ who love to create! Bring your knitting, crocheting, cross-stitching, or whatever craft you enjoy, and spend an evening with fellow makers.

We meet Every First Thursday at 6:30 PM, so join us this month on May 1st in the Activity Room. Relax, connect, and get inspired—let’s get crafty!

Free Family Friendly Films

Looking for a fun movie afternoon on the big screen? Join us on Friday, May 2, at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for a showing of Dog Man (PG)!

All ages are welcome, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen the film to ensure it’s right for your little movie fans!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Take a Break Book Club

Against all odds, a small, scrappy racehorse captured the heart of a nation. Join us on Thursday, May 22, at 6:30 PM in the Community Room as we discuss Laura Hillenbrand’s Seabiscuit—a riveting true story of perseverance, hope, and the power of an underdog.

Readers ages 18+ are invited to dive into this unforgettable tale and enjoy a lively discussion. See you there!

Armchair Traveler Challenge

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair artists will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Sign up at the Library Circulation Desk!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Summer Reading is Coming!

Programs are limited in May while we prepare. Sign-ups begin online and at the Library on Monday, June 2!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

May Teen Programs

May Teen Programs

May Teen Programs

Teen Action Council

The Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, May 7 in the Community Room at 4 PM!

Family Friendly Films

Looking for a fun movie afternoon on the big screen? Join us on Friday, May 2, at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for a showing of Dog Man (PG)!

All ages are welcome, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen the film to ensure it’s right for your little movie fans!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Armchair Traveler Challenge: Apprentice Artist

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair travelers will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Ages 15 and up will join the adult challenge, while 14 years and younger will be enrolled in the Junior Apprentice challenge. Sign up today at the Library Circulation Desk! See more details here.

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Idaho Teen Reading Challenge

Teens ages 12-18—are you ready for the Idaho Teen Reading Challenge? Sign up today at Madison Library District, Madison Jr. High Library, Madison High School Library, or online with the Beanstack app!

Read 8 books from 10 different categories and track your progress on Beanstack or with paper trackers, journals, or bookmarks available at all three libraries. For every book you finish, grab a prize at the Circulation desk or during visiting librarian days at your school library!

Complete the challenge by May 1 to be entered into a drawing for a $30 gift card AND help your library earn books! Let’s get reading!

Color Our World

Summer Reading is Coming! 

Programs are limited in May while we prepare. Sign-ups begin Monday, June 2!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

Storytime: B is for Birthday

Storytime: B is for Birthday

Storytime: B is for Birthday

Happy Birthday!
Children eagerly look forward to their next birthday with excitement and anticipation each year. But did you know birthdays can also be valuable learning experiences? They can help children develop an understanding of time and age, explore family values and traditions, and even learn empathy and the joy of giving.

When planning your child’s next celebration, consider incorporating one of these fun and meaningful activities:

  • Role-Play Parties – Pretend birthday parties with dolls or stuffed animals encourage storytelling, creativity, and empathy.

  • Make-Your-Own Cupcake Station – Following simple steps to decorate their own cupcakes builds independence and sequencing skills.

  • Birthday Calendar Craft – Marking the birthdays of family members helps kids learn about months, numbers, and names.

  • “All About Me” Poster – Creating a poster with drawings or pictures helps children express themselves and build self-awareness.

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Moving to music, dancing, swaying, running, and jumping help young children feel rhythm and begin to understand how their bodies work. Such movements help them gain muscle control and improve balance. All of this contributes to a child’s gross motor development. ~Reading Picture Books with Children by Lambert

Activity

Using a scarf, washcloth, or a towel practice tossing and catching while singing the rhyme, “Toss Your Scarves.” You can also sing and play the familiar rhyme, “Pat-a-Cake”, with your child. This will help them develop hand-eye coordination.

Books Presented

Book cover for I Got You a Present! by Mike Kellie-Erskine

I Got You a Present! by Mike Erskine-Kellie

In this hilarious and heartfelt story, our narrator is invited to a friend’s birthday party and wants to get them a truly amazing present. Maybe a dinosaur? Or an apple juice-fueled jet pack? Or how about a rocket ship to outer space! Unfortunately, our narrator can’t quite pull together the perfect birthday present, and time is running out! Maybe the perfect gift doesn’t need to be big and flashy after all.
Book cover for Happy Birthday, Moon by Frank Asch

Happy Birthday, Moon by Frank Asch

Moonbear discovers that he and the moon share the same birthday. Now Moonbear wants to give his nighttime friend a present. But what do you buy the moon?
Book cover for The Secret Birthday Message by Eric Carle

The Secret Birthday Message by Eric Carle

By following the instructions in the coded message, Tim finds his birthday present.
Book cover for Click, Clack, Surprise! by Doreen Cronin

Click, Clack, Surprise! by Doreen Cronin

Little Duck wants to look good for his birthday party so he observes how his barnyard buddies clean up, but what works for the other animals does not work for Little Duck, and he ends up messier than before.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Five Candles

Five candles on a birthday cake
Five, and not one more.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves four!

Four candles on a birthday cake
There for all to see.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves three!

Three candles on a birthday cake
Standing straight and true.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves two!

Two candles on a birthday cake
Helping us have fun.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves one!

On candle on a birthday cake
We know its task is done.
You may blow this candle out…
And that leaves none! Make a wish!

Source: Storytime Katie

Toss Your Scarves

Tune: Jingle Bells
Toss your scarves, toss your scarves
Toss them way up high.
Toss your scarves up in the air,
‘til they reach the sky.

Wave your scarves, wave your scarves,
Twirl them ‘round and ‘round.
Twirl your scarves one more time,
Then let them, all fall down.

If You’re Happy and You Know It

If you’re happy and you know it, wave your scarf.
If you’re happy and you know it, wave your scarf.
If you’re happy and you know it, your face will surely show it.
If you’re happy and you know it, wave your scarf.

*peek-a-boo, wave it high, wave it low, shake it fast, shake it slow.

Birthday Months

If your birthday is in January, turn around
If your birthday is in February, touch the ground…

(March, march along; April, sing a song;  May, wiggle your nose; June, shake your toes;  July, jump up high; 
August, reach the sky;  September, tap your shoe;  October, call out “Boo!”;  November, tickle your ears;
December, give three cheers)

Source: Storytime Katie

Birthday Cake Draw and Tell Story

Linda Meuse
Notes from the Story Room
March 21, 2013
 
 
Even though it was raining outside (Draw 1), it was bright and cheery inside Mike’s house.  The family was getting ready for his little sister Katie’s birthday party. Mike was helping. He put plates on the table. (Draw 2) Then he put a fork on one side and a spoon on the other side of each plate. (Draw 3) He helped his dad hang colorful streamers over the table. (Draw 4) He put two presents for his sister on the table. One was from him and the other was from his mom and dad. (Draw 5) Mike checked all around to make sure that everything was ready for the party. (Draw 6) Mike smiled a big smile. (Draw 7) Now it was time for the party to start and he couldn’t wait to have some yummy BIRTHDAY CAKE!

 
Drawing sequence:
1. Draw candle flames
2. Draw the top of the cake (be sure to leave room for the candles)
3. Draw the sides of the cake
4. Draw the decoration on the cake
5. Draw the candles and add the stripes
6. Draw the cake plate
7. Draw the bottom of the cake

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a kitten and a birthday cake.

Kitten Birthday coloring page

 

 

Make your own party hats from cardstock.

Party Hat Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Little Lion Girl by Olivia Hope

Happy Birthday discovery kit

Kit contains:
Book: Happy birthday from the very hungry caterpillar, by Eric Carle.
Book: How do dinosaurs say happy birthday?, by Jane Yolen.
Book: The night before my birthday, by Natasha Wing.
Book: Curious George and the birthday surprise, By H. A. Rey.
Book: Happy birthday, Fiona, by Zondervan.
Book: Carl’s birthday, by Alexandra Day.
Book: Happy birthday to you!, by Dr. Seuss.
Book: Grumpy monkey party time!, by Suzanne Lang.
Game: Birthday party cake, A mix-n-match wooden toy (6 pieces of cake, 6 candles, 1 cake plate, 1 cake server, & 10 toppings).
Toy: Colorful crown, by Lingana (ribbon attached).
Book cover for The Law of Birthdays: A Story About Choice by Brenna Jeanneret

The Law of Birthdays: A Story About Choice by Brenna Jeanneret

When one girl doesn’t want to eat cake on the king’s birthday, the two launch into a battle of wills and a discussion of choice.
Book cover for Party Rex by Molly Idle

Party Rex by Molly Idle

Rex invites all of his friends over to celebrate his tenth birthday
Book cover for The Brighter I Shine by Kamee Abrahamian

The Brighter I Shine by Kamee Abrahamian

For one Armenian child, birthdays are days for decorating the house with bunches of rose and mint and sumac, for eating beef dumplings with garlic yoghurt, and for baking cakes with family and friends. But birthdays are also a time for telling stories–stories of ancestors and homelands, of births and new beginnings, and of the land their family now calls home. Because stories make up who we are, they are like rivers that lead into oceans, like seeds that fall from flowers, like pages of this book that come from trees. And the more stories that are told, the brighter this little child shines. A magical tale about finding yourself in the stories of your ancestors and keeping their memories alive

More Story Times

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

Storytime: B is for Birthday

Happy Birthday!Children eagerly look forward to their next birthday with excitement and anticipation each year. But did you know birthdays can also be valuable learning experiences? They can help children develop an understanding of time and age, explore family values...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! April edition

Unicorns, bees, dinosaurs, and frogs—oh my! We've added something new to the library just for you. Online Catalog Tip: Want the latest books on your favorite topics, like unicorns? Use the "Sort By" dropdown menu and select "Publication Date (Descending)." This will...

APRIL Book Babies + Toddler: Birthdays

It’s my birthday! Did you know that birthdays aren’t just fun and exciting for children—they’re also a great learning opportunity? Looking forward to and celebrating a birthday helps children understand traditions, family gatherings, and the joy of giving and...

April Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Story TimeGet ready for April celebrations with our early literacy programs! Book Babies – Wednesdays at 9:30 AM* for babies not yet walking and their grown-ups. Enjoy songs, stories, baby sign language, movement, and sensory activities. Toddler Time – Mondays &...

Storytime: L is for Lions

Why don’t lions like fast food? Because they can’t catch it! Lions are fascinating animals that live in family groups called prides, which can have up to 30 lions. They're incredible jumpers, and their roar can be heard up to five miles away! Did you know that baby...

Storytime: L is for Luck

L is for luck! Do you have a lucky charm? Or had an unlucky day turn into a lucky one? Or maybe a good friend made you feel lucky? The difference between good luck and bad luck can depend on your mindset. By using creativity and imagination while looking at a problem,...

Storytime: L is for Ladybugs

Does your child say “wake” instead of “lake” or “wook” instead of “look?” The “L” sound can be tricky for kids to master. While sounds develop at different ages, imitation is key to learning speech. To produce the “L” sound, place the tip of your tongue just behind...

Storytime: L is for Lambs

Who knew that lambs love to laugh or that there are sheep in space with colorful coats? Plus, did you know that lambs can walk within minutes of being born, have teeth only on their lower jaw, and possess four stomachs? If you and your child want to learn more about...

MARCH Book Babies + Toddlers: Lambs

Many of us grew up with classic nursery rhymes like Mary Had a Little Lamb and Baa, Baa, Black Sheep. As you teach those songs to your child, consider incorporating these additional activities to expand both your and your baby's nursery rhyme repertoire.Book Babies:...

April Teen Programs

April Teen Programs

April Teen Programs

Teen Action Council

The Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, April 2 in the Community Room at 4 PM!

Teen Anime Club logo

Teen Crafts

Get crafty at Teen Crafts on Thursday, April 3, from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room! This time, we’re making paper decorated pocket tins with matching magnets. Teens ages 12-18, come craft with us!

Chess & Game Club

Learn the art of chess and other games with the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Tweens and teens ages 9-18 are welcome to join every Monday from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. Game supplies will be provided.

Young League of Writers

Calling all teen writers! Whether you want to share your stories, improve your craft, or connect with fellow creatives, this is the place for you. This month, we’re exploring the Hero’s Journey—a classic storytelling archetype that can take your writing to the next level. Join us Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 4:00–5:30 PM in the Community Room.

LEGO Club logo

Drawing and Animation Art Club

Drawing & Animation Art Club for ages 12-18 in on Thursday, April 10 at 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. Bring your drawings to share with other teens while learning new techniques from experienced artists. No application required—just bring your art and join us! In this session, we’ll share ideas for the Summer Reading Comic Art Contest. Questions? Email Caitlin at caitlin.m@madisonlib.org.

Dungeons & Dragons

Calling all teen adventurers! Join us for Dungeons & Dragons on Fridays, April 11 & 25 at 3:30 PM in the Community Room. Whether you’re a seasoned hero or a curious beginner, this classic role-playing game lets you create your own character, choose your story path, and roll the dice to determine your fate! Experienced players can bring their own characters (5th Edition rules), or try out one of our pre-made adventurers—perfect for those just starting out. Ages 12-18. Ready your swords and spells… the journey awaits!

Teen Anime Club logo

Teen LEGO Club

Are you a brick magician or just looney for LEGOs? Join us for Teen LEGO Club on Wednesday, April 16, from 4:30–5:30 PM in the Community Room! This month, put your creativity to the test as we design and build 3D Easter eggs using LEGO. Bring your imagination and get ready to build!

Anime Club

Calling all anime fans! Join us for Teen Anime Club on Thursday, April 17, from 4:00–5:30 PM in the Community Room. We’ll be watching Fluffy Paradise and crafting our own adorable pom pom pets! Whether you’re here for the anime, the crafts, or just to hang out with fellow fans, this is the place to be. See you there!

Family Friendly Films

Looking for a fun movie afternoon on the big screen? Join us for Free Family Friendly Films on Fridays at 3:30 PM in the Community Room! We’ve got new releases and beloved classics lined up:

  • April 18 – Moana 2 (PG)

All ages welcome, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen the films to ensure they’re right for your little movie fans!

Cook with a Book

Mystery, fortune, and… scones? Join us for Cook with a Book on Thursday, April 24, from 4:00–5:30 PM in the Community Room as we explore The Inheritance Games and bake blueberry scones fit for a billionaire’s breakfast. No sign-up needed—just bring your appetite and love for books! Teens ages 12-18 welcome.

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Armchair Traveler Challenge: Apprentice Artist

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair travelers will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Ages 15 and up will join the adult challenge, while 14 years and younger will be enrolled in the Junior Apprentice challenge. Sign up today at the Library Circulation Desk! See more details here.

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Idaho Teen Reading Challenge

Teens ages 12-18—are you ready for the Idaho Teen Reading Challenge? Sign up today at Madison Library District, Madison Jr. High Library, Madison High School Library, or online with the Beanstack app!

Read 8 books from 10 different categories and track your progress on Beanstack or with paper trackers, journals, or bookmarks available at all three libraries. For every book you finish, grab a prize at the Circulation desk or during visiting librarian days at your school library!

Complete the challenge by May 1 to be entered into a drawing for a $30 gift card AND help your library earn books! Let’s get reading!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! April edition

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! April edition

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! April edition

Unicorns, bees, dinosaurs, and frogs—oh my! We’ve added something new to the library just for you.

Online Catalog Tip: Want the latest books on your favorite topics, like unicorns? Use the “Sort By” dropdown menu and select “Publication Date (Descending).” This will display the newest titles first, so you can always check out something fresh!

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Encourage phonemic awareness by playing with sounds in words! Helping children recognize and manipulate sounds in spoken language lays the foundation for reading success.

Activity

Play a fun rhyming game by changing the first sound of words. Say a word like “cat” and ask your child, “What happens if we change the ‘c’ sound to ‘m’?” (They’ll say “mat!”) Keep going with other words, making it silly and playful. This helps your child develop listening skills and an awareness of how sounds work in words.

Books Presented

Book cover for The Princess and the Frog ... And the Dog! by Nick Allison

The Prince and the Frog ... And the Dog! by Nick Allison

A rhyming easy reader telling the hilarious adventure of a barefoot princess out in the woods! Will she meet friends or foes? Open the book to find out!
Book cover for Let's Be Bees by Shawn Harris

Let's Be Bees by Shawn Harris

The only thing better than reading a good book together, is playing make believe with your favorite grown-up! Especially when that grown-up’s imagination is as big as yours, and you both get to make all kinds of funny sounds. A father and child play make-believe as a variety of animals, plants, and forces of nature. Chirp, thunder, and roar along with this joyously boisterous read-aloud picture book.

Book cover for Dinosaurs can be Small by Darrin P. Lunde

Dinosaurs Can Be Small by Darrin P. Lunde

Dinosaurs are famous for being big, but some of the most interesting ones were small. Young readers compare six tiny dinosaurs with their massive counterparts and learn that being big isn’t everything. Sometimes it’s very good to be small.
Book cover for The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn by Shawn Harris

The Teeny-Weeny Unicorn by Shawn Harris

Teeny-Weeny Unicorn feels like the world is not made for his small stature and one day it bothers him so much he runs off, but soon after meeting a salty gnome he starts to wonder if he might just be the right size after all.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Unicorn, Unicorn

Unicorn, Unicorn, turn around
Unicorn, Unicorn, touch the ground
Unicorn, Unicorn, reach up high
Unicorn, Unicorn, touch the sky
Unicorn, Unicorn, bend down low
Unicorn, Unicorn, touch your toes

This is Big Big Big

This is big big big (Hold arms out to side)
This is small small small (Cup hands together)
This is short short short (Hold hands with palms facing each other)
This is tall tall tall (Reach one hand above head)
This is fast fast fast (Circle fists quickly)
This is slow slow slow (Circle fists slowly)
This is yes yes yes (Nod)
This is no no no (Shake head)

Source: Verona Story Time

Robot Rhymes

I am a rhyming robot,
I love to rhyme, you see.
Help me find a word that rhymes with BEE.

I am a rhyming robot,
I learned how from a frog.
Help me find a word that rhymes with LOG.

I am a rhyming robot,
It’s super-duper fun!
Help me find a word that rhymes with SUN.

I am a rhyming robot,
I love to count to ten.
Help me find a word that rhymes with HEN.

I am a rhyming robot,
I love to chit ‘n chat.
Help me find a word that rhymes with CAT.

Source: 123 Homeschool 4 Me

Shake My Sillies Out

I’ve gotta shake, shake, shake my sillies out
Shake, shake, shake my sillies out
Shake, shake, shake my sillies out
And wiggle my waggles away

I’ve gotta clap, clap, clap my crazies out…
I’ve gotta jump, jump, jump my jiggles out…
I’ve gotta yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out…
I’ve gotta shake, shake, shake my sillies out.

Source: Hope Harrison

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a unicorn with a rainbow and stars.

Something New Just For You

Make a unicorn headband from paper.

Unicorn Headband

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