Storytime: Forest Friends

by Amy Westmoreland | Jul 7, 2021 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 comments

Storytime: Forest Friends

“Over in the forest underneath the pine trees sat a brown mother bear and her babies three!” Can you make some new friends in the forest? Try out some of these books and activities below to see the creatures who live in the forest. You can also put together the Cardboard Roll Shadow Puppets and make up your own stories with your new forest friends.

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

When your children have happy experiences, they want to repeat them. Starting kindergarten can seem as an extension of informal library classes. Children who have had joyful experiences in the public library often approach school with a positive attitude, ready and excited to learn.

- Lambert

Activity

After you attend Storytime, talk with your child about what they enjoyed most. Then sing the songs that were presented. You can find the words and links on this blog post.

Books Presented



Shake the Tree by Chiara Vignocchi

Various animals take turns shaking a tree in search of a tasty meal. It starts with Mouse who wants a nut so she shakes the tree a little to the right, and a little to the left. But it isn’t the nut that falls from the tree, it’s Fox who thinks that Mouse looks pretty tasty! Soon a warthog and then a bear come along with similar ideas. Little readers will enjoy the just-made-it escapes and the fun shaking-action that readers can do along with this interactive picture book

Find it in Our Catalog



Find Fergus by Mike Boldt

Fergus the bear wants to play hide and seek with the reader, but will need help–and practice–to hide well.

Find it in Our Catalog

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Shake My Sillies Out

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 gotta clap, clap, clap my crazies out
Clap, clap, clap my crazies out
Clap, clap, clap my crazies out
And wiggle my waggles away

I gotta jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
Jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
Jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
And wiggle my waggles away

I gotta yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
Yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
Yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
And wiggle my waggles away

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

Zoom, Zoom, Zoom!

Attention all astronauts

Please report the rocket ship
Prepare yourself for blast off

Thank you!

Zoom Zoom Zoom
We’re going to the moon

If you want to take the trip
Climb aboard my rocket ship

Zoom Zoom Zoom
We’re going to the moon

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
We have blast off!

Zoom Zoom Zoom
We’re going to the moon

If you want to take the trip
Climb aboard my rocket ship

Zoom Zoom Zoom
We’re going to the moon

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
We have blast off!

If You’re Happy and You Know It

If you’re happy and you know it clap your hands
If you’re happy and you know it clap your hands
If you’re happy and you know it
And you really want to show it
If you’re happy and you know it clap your hands

If you’re happy and you know it stomp your feet
If you’re happy and you know it stomp your feet
If you’re happy and you know it
And you really want to show it
If you’re happy and you know it stomp your feet

If you’re happy and you know it nod your head
If you’re happy and you know it nod your head
If you’re happy and you know it
And you really want to show it
If you’re happy and you know it nod your head

If you’re happy and you know it do all three
If you’re happy and you know it do all three
If you’re happy and you know it
And you really want to show it
If you’re happy and you know it do all three

Crafts and Activities



Coloring Page

Print out this cute forest scene and enjoy coloring!

Go To Coloring Page



Make a fun cardboard roll shadow puppet!

Go To Craft Instructions

Additional Books

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Fear the Bunny by Richard T Morris

In a forest where everyone fears rabbits, a fierce tiger tries to persuade the animals that they should fear him, instead.

Find it in Our Catalog



Who Wants a Hug? by Jeff Mack

Everyone likes Mr. Bear except grouchy Dr. Skunk, who devises a plan to make Mr. Bear stop being happy and hugging others.

Find it in Our Catalog



Animal Hide and Seek by Dahlov Ipcar

Sometimes, you need to know what to look for in order to see an animal, even if it’s hiding in plain sight! In Animal Hide and Seek, author and artist Dahlov Ipcar first offers young readers portraits of woodland animals and then, on the companion page, sets the animal into its natural setting, camouflaged for the careful reader to find. Gentle prose describes the animals and their habits, from deer to rabbits, from squirrels to salamanders.

Find it in Our Catalog



Bear's New Friend by Karma Wilson

Bear and his friends persuade a bashful owl to play with them.

Find it in Our Catalog

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Alligator

by Marybeth Isle | September 3, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 Comments

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

Storytime: Purple

by Marybeth Isle | July 10, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 Comments

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

by Marybeth Isle | July 1, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 1 Comment

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | June 30, 2025 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | June 2, 2025 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

Storytime: B is for Birthday

by Marybeth Isle | April 17, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 Comments

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

by Marybeth Isle | April 7, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 Comments

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...

Storytime: L is for Lions

by Marybeth Isle | March 26, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 Comments

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

by Marybeth Isle | March 19, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 Comments

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

by Marybeth Isle | March 12, 2025 | Blog, Kid's Corner, Story Time | 0 Comments

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...

Book Babies + Toddler Time: Rabbits & Bunnies

by Amy Westmoreland | Jul 1, 2021 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 comments

Book Babies + Toddler Time: Rabbits & Bunnies

Whether bouncing like a bunny or hopping like a rabbit, toddlers and babies love these fluffy animals. Try reading some of the books below or doing the activities with your child for a fun-filled learning time about bunnies & rabbits.

Book Babies: Wednesday @ 9:45am in Community Room

Ages 0 – 10 months

Toddler Time: Tuesday @ 9:45am in Community Room

Ages 11 – 23 months

Welcome Songs

Here We Are Together

Here we are together, together, together! Oh, here we are together in our library. There’s (sing names)… Here we are together in our library!

Hello Everybody

Hello everybody let’s clap our hands*, clap our hands, clap our hands. Hello everybody let’s clap our hands today! *pat our head, stretch up high, wiggle our fingers, tickle our knees, kick our feet, bounce up high!

S, T, R, W, P

(Sing while pointing to each finger on your child’s hand.) Sing, talk, read, write, play! Sing, talk, read write, play! Sing, talk, read, write, play! Sing, talk, read, write, play each day!

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Even if you can’t sing on key, be sure to sing to your child! Your child is not looking for a concert quality song; he wants familiar sounds from a person who means a great deal to him. Singing together can be great fun; it doesn’t require any special equipment or cost any money.

- Lambert

Activity

Sing a song with motions with your child such as, “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” or “Hello, Everybody Let’s Clap Our Hands!” You can also replace the pronouns with your child’s name to “personalize” it!

Books Presented



Pop-Up Peekaboo! Meow!

Can you find Stripy Cat’s friends hiding under the flaps? Watch out-they might jump out at you!

Find it Online



Hush, Little Ones by John Butler

Baby animals in their natural environments are lovingly lulled to sleep by their parents.

Find it in Our Catalog

Find it Online

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Fingerplay: Here is a Bunny

Here is a bunny with ears so funny.
(hold up 2 fingers on one hand like bunny ears)
And here is a hole in the ground.
(finger and thumb of other hand together to make circle)
When a noise he hears
(hold one hand to ear)
He pricks up his ears
(hold up 2 fingers on one hand like bunny ears)
And jumps in the hole in the ground!
(hand with finger-ears “jumps” into hand with hole)

Variation
Here’s a bunny with ears so funny.
(wave hands above head for ears)
And here is a hole in the ground
(use hands to form a circle).
When a noise he hears,
(clap hands)
He perks up his ears,
(make ears stand up straight)
And jumps in a hole in the ground.
(dive towards the floor)

Rhymes, Songs, and Fingerplays Booklet

If you didn’t receive the booklet at Toddler Time or Book Babies, come to the library and ask for one at the Children’s Reference desk.

Scarf Song: Peek-a-boo

To the tune “Are You Sleeping”

Peek-a-boo, Peek-a-boo
I see you, I see you.
I see your button nose.
I see your tiny toes.
I see you, I see you.

– Jbrary.com

Scarf Song: Rain on the Grass

*Rain on the grass
*Rain on the trees
*Rain on the roof but not on me!

*Replace with snow, sun, leaves
– Jbrary.com

If You’re a Bunny and You Know It

If you’re a bunny and you know it, hop around
If you’re a bunny and you know it, hop around
If you’re a bunny and you know it and you really want to show it
If you’re a bunny and you know it, hop around

(shake your tail)
(flop your ears)
(wiggle your nose)

Additional Books



If You're Hoppy by April Pulley Sayre

In rhyming text reminiscent of the traditional song, “If you’re happy and you know it,” presents various animals that are hoppy, sloppy, growly, flappy, or slimy, scaly and mean.

Find it in Our Catalog



Peek-a-Boo Bunny by Holly Surplice

An energetic bunny plays hid and seek with his forest friends

Find it in Our Catalog



Little Bunny by Lauren Thompson

A young rabbit enjoys a “busy, dizzy” day of playing in the meadow near his home.

Find it in Our Catalog



Bunny Breaths by Kira Willey

Part of the Mindfulness Moments for Kids series, this mindful meditation moment teaches kids to think like a bunny and find their own focused energy! With Bunny Breaths, kids learn how to replenish their energy with quick, focused breaths…no matter how blah they feel. Best of all, it can be performed anywhere: in the backseat of a car, at home, or even at a child’s desk at school.

Find it in Our Catalog

More Book Babies

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

by Marybeth Isle | September 4, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

APRIL Book Babies + Toddler: Birthdays

by Marybeth Isle | April 2, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

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...

MARCH Book Babies + Toddlers: Lambs

by Marybeth Isle | March 4, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

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:...

March Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | February 28, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

Story TimeGet ready for March magic 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 & Tuesdays...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: “C” is for Counting

by Marybeth Isle | February 5, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

One, two, three, count with me. It’s as easy as can be! Teaching numbers at an early age can be great fun! Here are some fun ways to introduce numbers to your infant or toddler: ? 0-1 Year (Introduction to Numbers) Talk & Count: Count fingers, toes, and everyday...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: S is for Soup

by Marybeth Isle | January 27, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

Making and eating soup can be a sensory explosion for you and your child, especially when you make it together. Look for ingredients with a variety of colors, textures, and scents, then talk about where they came from, or count the pieces you’ve cut. Here are some...

Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | January 27, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

Old School PoetryThis February, let love take center stage! Stop by our special collections area to type out a heartfelt poem on our vintage typewriter—whether it’s for a dear friend or your favorite pizza. Drop your masterpiece into the submission box nearby if you'd...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

by Marybeth Isle | November 12, 2024 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

by Marybeth Isle | October 2, 2024 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Feelings

by Marybeth Isle | September 3, 2024 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid's Corner, Toddler Time | 0 Comments

Ah, emotions… however big or small, can be difficult to manage for everyone, especially children. There are, however, tips and tricks you can use to help your child learn how to recognize and regulate their feelings, and you can start early, even with an infant. The...

July 1st – July 15th TEEN Activities

by Amy Westmoreland | Jun 30, 2021 | Blog, Teen Crafts, Teen Zone, Upcoming Events | 0 comments

July 1st – July 15th TEEN Activities

Young League of Writers

Monday, July 12th, at 4:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Connect with fellow writers to learn how to create characters who grow, transform, and have greater depth.

Our Discord Server is another place to chat and discuss writing. Click below to join!

Join our Discord Server

Teen Dungeons & Dragons

Wednesday, July 28th at 4 – 6 p.m. in the Community Room

Join in on an epic adventure! Create your own character, let the dice choose your fate, and interact with others to see where the quest takes you.

Sign up or RSVP for this upcoming session of Dungeons & Dragons. Join our Discord server to connect with fellow adventurers and to learn more.

For teens 12 – 18 years of age.

Join our Discord Server

Teen action council have a say in what goes on at the library for teens

Summer Teen Crafts

Every Thursday during Summer Reading, a new take ‘n go Teen Craft will be available at the front Circulation Desk.

While supplies last. For ages 12 – 18.

Instructions and material lists can also be found on our website, under “Teen Zone,” and on our YouTube channel.

June 17: Wall Hanging Button Holder

June 24: Hedgehog Earbud Holder

July 1: Pokémon Terrarium

July 8: Monkey Fist Knot

July 15: Cut-Paper Fox Tin Art

July 22: Paper Firebirds

July 29: Shadow Art

Summer Reading, June 7th – July 31st

Sign-ups are now in the front lobby area at the booth, available until July 24th. Program ends July 31st.

Each year, from June through July, we host Summer Reading. Our program for teens has lots of events and parties.

The 2021 Summer Reading Theme is “Tails and Tales.” The possibilities are endless!

Learn More

Join our Discord Server

Teen Short Story Writing Contest

Participants must be ages 12 – 18 to enter
Open to Madison Library District residents only
2,000 word maximum
Limit 1 short story per person
Must include an animal as part of the main story
No photos or illustrations
Work must be original, not previously published, and titled
Submissions that are deemed inappropriate, culturally inaccurate or possess negative stereotypical characterization will be disqualified

HOW TO SUBMIT:

Email your original work to Gina Miller or bring a hard copy into the library.
Subject line must say: “Tail”ish Tales Contest.
Please include your name, age, and phone number in the email.
Paste or type your short story in the email itself. Attachments will not be opened.

DEADLINE:

All entries must be received by Monday, July 26th, 2021.
Winners will be announced on Friday, July 31st, 2020 via Facebook, Instagram and email.

PRIZES:

First prize- Scrivener writing software ($50 value).
Second prize- Fat Cat’s movie date pack.
Third prize- Florence’s Candy box of chocolates.

All three winners will receive publication online at www.madisonlib.org and an award certificate.

For more information please email Gina Miller.

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | August 25, 2025 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

by Mary Kirkpatrick | July 30, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog, Kid's Corner, Teen Zone, Tween Scene | 0 Comments

Teen Action CouncilThe 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, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | June 30, 2025 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | June 2, 2025 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

by Mary Kirkpatrick | April 28, 2025 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

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!...

April Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

by Mary Kirkpatrick | March 31, 2025 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

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 &...

March Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | February 28, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | January 27, 2025 | Blog, Book Babies, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

January Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

by Mary Kirkpatrick | December 30, 2024 | Blog, Kid STEAM, Kid's Corner, Story Time, Tween Scene, Tween STEAM | 0 Comments

Story TimeJanuary Story Time is serving up something soup-er! Book Babies (infants/babies not yet walking and their caregivers) meet Wednesdays at 9:30 AM with songs, stories, and sensory fun for our "Soup’s On!" theme. (Library Closed Jan. 1) Toddler Time (walking...

December 2024 Programs for All Ages

by Mary Kirkpatrick | November 27, 2024 | Adult Arena, Blog, Kid's Corner, Teen Zone, Tween Scene | 0 Comments

Winter Safe DrivingFirst time driving on snowy winter roads? Madison Library District is partnering with the Idaho Department of Transportation and the Idaho State Police to keep you safe this winter! Learn strategies to stay on the road, deal with slipping and...

JULY Adult Activities

by Amy Westmoreland | Jun 30, 2021 | Adult Arena, Adult Makers, Blog, Upcoming Events | 0 comments

JULY Adult Activities

Adult Summer Reading

Explore Tails and Tales at the Library this summer by researching animals in all their habitats. Each time you complete a “Research Area” by reading 1000 pages of your choice, bring your log into the Library for a small reward.

If you successfully complete all Research by reading 3000 pages before Saturday, July 31st, you’ll be entered into our final drawings and receive five $1 coupons to use towards any unfortunate future fine incidents that may occur.

Last day to signup is July 24th.

Find out more

SUMMER READING Cat Scavenger Hunt

Some slinky felines have come to hang out in the library during Summer Reading. But just how many are there?

Take a look around the General Section of the library to see how many curious cats you can find. Pick up a form at the Reference Desk; to increase your chances of winning, be sure to count the other creatures who are lurking about. If you want to change your count, we will consider your best guess.

Only PAPER cats count – displays, books, etc. are not included in the final count.

For ages 18+
Adult prize: $15 gift card to Fresco Grill. A certificate will be awarded to the closest underage guess.

Contest ends July 12th.

EXPLORATION KITS

The Adult Exploration Kits are back on the shelves!

Each kit is built to take you on a journey of learning. There are a myriad of subjects to choose from, including US Beginnings, Shakespeare, Cake, Bob Ross, National Parks, and more.

Exploration kits may be checked out for three weeks.

To make it even easier on yourself, search our catalogue to put one on hold! Simply use the catalogue search function and type in “Adult exploration kits” to view our many options.

Search Our Catalogue

PUZZLE + CHESS

The puzzle table is open to the public! Sit down and relax with our community puzzle. Contribute what you want and come back another day.

CHESS is located in the glass enclosure. Request a set from the Reference Desk.

The Library Book Club will next meet on Thursday, September 16th, at 6:30pm.

The book will be The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin:

A bizarre chain of events begins when sixteen unlikely people gather for the reading of Samuel W. Westing’s will. And though no one knows why the eccentric, game-loving millionaire has chosen a virtual stranger—and a possible murderer—to inherit his vast fortune, one thing’s for sure: Sam Westing may be dead… but that won’t stop him from playing one last game!

Reading copies will be available to check out at the Front Circulation Desk mid-August.

Learn more about book club

September Activities for Adults

by Mary Kirkpatrick | August 25, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

Dungeons & DragonsTuesdays, Sept. 2, 16, & 30 at 5:30 PM in the Community Room Calling all adventurers! Whether you're a battle-hardened bard or brand-new to the game, join our Dungeons & Dragons adventures for adults (18+) and step into a world of...

August Programs for All Ages

by Mary Kirkpatrick | July 30, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog, Kid's Corner, Teen Zone, Tween Scene | 0 Comments

July Programs for Adults

by Mary Kirkpatrick | June 30, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Your final goal is 3,000 pages, but you earn prizes for every 1,000 pages you...

June Events for Adults

by Mary Kirkpatrick | June 2, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Your final goal is 3,000 pages, but you earn prizes for every 1,000 pages you...

Upcoming Board of Trustees Elections for 2025

by Rebekka Hanson | May 1, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

Election InformationSpecial Districts holding elections in May: Madison Library District Trustee Election Day: May 20th Begin Mailing Absentee Ballots: April 10, 2025 Early Voting Begins in the Clerk’s Office: May 5, 2025 8:15-4:45 Monday-Friday until May 16, 2025 @...

May Adult Programs

by Mary Kirkpatrick | April 28, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

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...

April Adult Programs

by Mary Kirkpatrick | March 31, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

Dungeons & Dragons: Adventures Calling all adventurers! Join our new Dungeons & Dragons program for adults and embark on epic quests in the world’s greatest tabletop role-playing game. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, you’ll explore...

March Adult Programs

by Mary Kirkpatrick | February 28, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

February Programs for Adults

by Mary Kirkpatrick | January 27, 2025 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

Old School Poetry This February, let love take center stage! Stop by our special collections area to type out a heartfelt poem on our vintage typewriter—whether it’s for your soulmate, a dear friend, or your favorite pizza. Drop your masterpiece into the submission...

January Programs for Adults

by Mary Kirkpatrick | December 30, 2024 | Adult Arena, Blog | 0 Comments

Crafty Corner? NEW at the Library! ? 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. It starts on January 2nd at...

June 13th – 30th Teen Activities

by Amy Westmoreland | Jun 19, 2021 | Blog, Teen Crafts, Teen Parties, Teen Zone | 0 comments

June 13th – 30th Teen Activities

Teen Anime Club

Monday, June 21st at 4:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Teens ages 12-18 gather together to watch anime favorites, chat about manga, and play games. No need to apply — just show up!

This month we will have a Pokémon the First Movie Popcorn Party!

Email Gina @ gina.m@madisonlib.org for more information.

Teen Dungeons & Dragons

Wednesday, June 23 at 4 – 6 p.m. in the Community Room

Join in on an epic adventure! Create your own character, let the dice choose your fate, and interact with others to see where the quest takes you.

Sign up or RSVP for this upcoming session of Dungeons & Dragons. Join our Discord server to connect with fellow adventurers and to learn more.

For teens 12 – 18 years of age.

Join our Discord Server

Madison Bibliomaniacs Teen Book Chat

Monday, June 28th at 4 p.m. in the Community Room.

Who loves to read?? This is a fantastic opportunity to meet and discuss the love of books with others who appreciate the written word as much as you.

June’s Bibliomaniac book will be The Eleventh Hour by Graeme Base. Bring your detective skills to solve the who-dunnit mystery of the book by decoding the puzzles on each illustrated page. And of course we will have treats!

Summer Teen Crafts

Every Thursday during Summer Reading, a new take ‘n go Teen Craft will be available at the front Circulation Desk.

While supplies last. For ages 12 – 18.

Instructions and material lists can also be found on our website, under “Teen Zone,” and on our YouTube channel.

June 17: Wall Hanging Button Holder

June 24: Hedgehog Earbud Holder

July 1: Pokémon Terrarium

July 8: Monkey Fist Knot

July 15: Cut-Paper Fox Tin Art

July 22: Paper Firebirds

July 29: Shadow Art

Summer Reading has STARTED

Sign-ups are now in the front lobby area at the booth.

Each year, from June through July, we host Summer Reading. Our program for teens has lots of events and parties.

The 2021 Summer Reading Theme is “Tails and Tales.” The possibilities are endless!

Learn More

Join our Discord Server

Teen Short Story Writing Contest

Participants must be ages 12 – 18 to enter
Open to Madison Library District residents only
2,000 word maximum
Limit 1 short story per person
Must include an animal as part of the main story
No photos or illustrations
Work must be original, not previously published, and titled
Submissions that are deemed inappropriate, culturally inaccurate or possess negative stereotypical characterization will be disqualified