Category: Spotlight

OverDrive Reciprocal Lending Agreement – Updated 12/4/2025

Scott Wright

Did you know that Dexter District Library is now part of an agreement with many other Michigan cooperatives sharing access to our Libby collections?

Partner Libraries are currently:

  • Bay County Library System (added 12/4/2025)
  • Genesee District Library (added 10/3/2024)
  • Great Lakes Digital Libraries
  • Lakeland Library Cooperative
  • Metro Net Library Consortium
  • Mideastern Michigan Library Cooperative
  • Midwest Collaborative for Library Services
  • Saint Clair County Library System (added 10/3/2024)
  • Southwest Michigan Digital Library (added 7/29/2025)
  • Suburban Library Cooperative
  • Traverse Area District Library (added 4/9/2024)
  • Up North Library Cooperative
  • White Pine Library Cooperative
  • Woodlands Library Cooperative

This means that including our 78,000+ titles, you have access to over 387,000 additional titles!

To access the Partner Library collections on your computer, simply click the “Partner libraries” button in the upper right corner of Download Destination.

On the Libby app, follow these steps to add our Partner Libraries to your account:

  1. Open the menu (found in the bottom center) inside Libby
  2. Select “Add Library“
  3. Search for a Partner Library – their names are listed in red above
  4. Select “Sign In With My Card“
  5. Under Partner Libraries select Dexter District Library
  6. Enter your library card and pin.
    Tip:  You can long hold on the library card number after typing it, then select copy.  When you arrive at this step again, long hold and press paste to save time.
  7. You are now shopping on that Partner Library’s Libby collection
  8. Repeat the process to add the rest of the Partner Libraries
  9. You may toggle between Library collections using the menu in the bottom center inside Libby

Please note that hold priority is given to patrons borrowing from their home library collection.

winter youth programs

Winter Events for Children

Ruth Jansen

The Dexter District Library offers a variety of youth programs including Story Times, book clubs, STEM events, and craft programs. Some programs may require registration. Please read the program description carefully when registering for an event.

 

Winter Reading Bingo Challenge
Monday, December 15 – Thursday, January 15
Youth and Teens
Registration on Beanstack required

Youth and Teens can complete a variety of reading challenges on Beanstack this December. Sign up on the Beanstack web site or app starting on Monday, December 15. Read different kinds of books and do activities to receive badges. Need help selecting books? Find our lists in Beanstack or on our web site. Complete 5 activity badges in a row to get a bingo and win a small prize, then complete all 25 badges to fill your bingo card and get a free book. Prizes will be available for pickup starting on Monday, December 22. Prizes will be available for pickup until Friday, January 30.

 

WINTER STORY TIMES

Drop-In Story Times at the Library
Mixed-ages Story Time on Monday & Thursday mornings at 11:00 am
Toddler Story Time on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am
Preschool Story Time on Tuesday mornings at 11:00 am
January 12 – February 26
Lower Level Large Meeting Room

No registration required

Mixed-ages Story Time for ages 5 & under will be held on Monday and Thursday mornings at 11:00 am.

Toddler Story Time for children 18 months to 3 years of age will be held on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am.

Preschool Story Time for children 3 to 5 years of age will be held on Tuesday mornings at 11:00 am.

Children under 18 months may attend, however books and activities are geared for toddlers and preschoolers. Infants are welcome at story times with their siblings.  Parents or caregivers are required to attend. Each program lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Our story times include picture, pop-up and interactive books, flannel-board stories, songs, puppets, finger plays and other activities that encourage a love of reading.

 

Registered Small Group Story Times
Toddler Small Group Story Time on Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am
Preschool Fall Story Time on Wednesday mornings at 11:00 am
January 14 – February 25
First Floor Youth Program Room

Registration required and begins on Wednesday, December 17

Registration is required for Toddler Small Group Story Time and Preschool Small Group Story Time since space is limited. Parents or caregivers of children may register on our website through our calendar of events or by calling 734-426-4477. Children may only be registered for one 7-week session. Registration will be on a first come first served basis.

Toddler Small Group Story Time for children 18 months to 3 years of age will be held on Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am.

Preschool Small Group Story Time for children 3 to 5 years of age will be held on Wednesday mornings at 11:00 am.

Children under 18 months may attend, however books and activities are geared for toddlers and preschoolers. Infants are welcome at story times with their siblings.  Parents or caregivers are required to attend. Each program lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Our story times include picture, pop-up and interactive books, flannel-board stories, songs, puppets, finger plays and other activities that encourage a love of reading.

 

DECEMBER

Preschool Makerspace
Tuesday, December 2
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Make, try, create and play at the Library. Young children will explore a variety of stations with open-ended creative activities designed to encourage early learning. Children need an active adult partner to help them. Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Tuesday, December 2
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, December 3
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, November 5

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, December 9
4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration begins Tuesday, November 11

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read a book related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The December theme is Food. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, December 11
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2
Registration begins Thursday, November 13

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The December theme is Gingerbread. Registration is required.

 

Wacky Winter Science Show
Friday, December 12
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Come have some fun this winter. Watch as a snowman is defrosted right before your eyes, see Jack Frost fill an eight-foot airbag with one icy breath, and be amazed by the mysterious North Pole rock that our wacky scientist discovers.  Registration is not required.

 

Music & Movement with Dancer’s Edge
Wednesday, December 17
10:00 am – 10:30 am
Ages 2 – 5
Drop-In Program

Children ages 2 and up, along with their caregivers, are invited to participate in a special dance class with Jennifer Smith of Dancer’s Edge.  Filled with music, playful interaction and movement, this class is designed for the youngest dancers.  Get ready to wiggle, jump and move to music. Registration is not required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, December 18
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration begins Thursday, November 20

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our December book is Murray the Viking by Adam Stower. Registration is required.

 

Drop-in Winter Wonderland Stories & Crafts
Monday, December 22
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Join us for a special family story and craft program featuring the magic of winter. Registration is not required.

 

Makerspace
Saturday, December 27
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in New Year’s Hat & Noisemaker Crafts
Monday, December 29
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Children of all ages and their families are invited to create hats and noisemakers to ring in the New Year. Registration is not required.

 

KPop Demon Hunters Party
Tuesday, December 30
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Grades 3 – 8
Drop-In Program 

Party like KPop superstars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey at the Library! Students in grades 3-8 can drop in between 2:00 and 3:00 pm for crafts and activities inspired by this popular movie. Costumes are welcome! Registration is not required.

 

JANUARY

Drop-in Wish & Treasure Box Craft
Saturday, January 3
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Decorate a small box with paint and other embellishments. You can write your wish for the new year and keep it in the box or store your favorite small treasures inside. Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Monday, January 5
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in Preschool Winter Crafts
Wednesday, January 7
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Celebrate the season by making a variety of snowy winter crafts. Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, January 7
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens
Registration begins Wednesday, December 3

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, January 8
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2
Registration begins Thursday, December 11

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The January theme is Winter. Registration is required.

 

Dexter Dreadbolts Robotics Demonstration
Saturday, January 10
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Grades K – 4
Registration begins Wednesday, December 10

Join the Dexter DreadBolts (FTC Team 16714), Mill Creek’s First Tech Challenge robotics team, for an interactive and informational robotics program. This session will open with a brief presentation by the team about their competition season and the robot they created. Then participants can do a craft, watch the robotics demonstration, and have a chance to drive a robot created by the team!

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, January 13
4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration begins Tuesday, December 9

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read a book related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The January theme is Winter. Registration is required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, January 15
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration begins Thursday, December 18

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our January book is Choose Your Own Funny Book. Registration is required.

 

KinderConcert!
Saturday, January 17
12:00 pm – 12:30 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Children ages five and younger and their caregivers will find that music comes alive during this 30-minute concert.  Don’t worry about wiggly tots sitting still for a concert – they will be encouraged to dance and move while listening to the music, hearing a story being told with musical accompaniment and learning about a special orchestral instrument.  Members of the A2SO lead children on a guided introduction to the instruments of the orchestra.  Registration is not required.

 

Yarn Painting
Monday, January 19
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Grades K – 4
Registration begins Monday, December 22

Find your inner artist with this simple and fun art method. Children in grades K-4 are invited to learn how to “paint” a vibrant, textured piece of art using just yarn and glue. Templates will be available, or participants can create their own unique designs. Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, January 22
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in Snowflake Suncatcher Craft
Saturday, January 24
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Drop-in and create your own snowflake suncatcher decoration. Registration is not required.

 

Mini Golf at the Library
Friday, January 30
Time 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Are you ready to test your skill and take a swing at our 9-hole mini-golf course in the Library?  It’s a hole lotta fun! We’ll provide the putters and golf balls, you provide the talent! Everyone welcome. Registration is not required.

 

Mini Golf at the Library
Saturday January 31
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Are you ready to test your skill and take a swing at our 9-hole mini-golf course in the Library?  It’s a hole lotta fun! We’ll provide the putters and golf balls, you provide the talent! Everyone welcome. Registration is not required.

 

FEBRUARY

Lego Club
Monday, February 2
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, February 4
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens
Registration begins Wednesday, January 7

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Celebrate Take Your Child to the Library Day
Saturday, February 7
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Take Your Child to the Library Day is an international initiative that encourages families everywhere to take their children to their local library. We will celebrate with crafts, a book character eye spy game, and a variety of building activities. Stop by and join in the fun! Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, February 10
4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration begins Tuesday, January 13

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read a book related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The February theme is Friendship. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, February 12
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2
Registration begins Thursday, January 8

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The February theme is Friendship. Registration is required.

 

Drummunity
Friday, February 13
11:00 am -12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Join Lori Fithian for Drummunity! She’ll bring the drums – YOU get to play them! Children of all ages get to drum, sing and dance in this fun and energizing program. Lori brings all kinds of drums and percussion instruments, so everyone can make music together! Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in Valentine’s Day Crafts
Saturday, February 14
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Get creative at the library. Drop-in and make a variety of Valentine’s Day crafts. Registration is not required.

 

Movie & Popcorn for Kids
Monday, February 16
1:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Kids of all ages are invited to stop by the Library and watch The Bad Guys 2 (2025) on the big screen while enjoying a free bag of popcorn. Registration is not required. 

The now-reformed Bad Guys are trying (very, very hard) to be good, but instead find themselves hijacked into a high-stakes, globe-trotting heist, masterminded by a new team of criminals they never saw coming: The Bad Girls.

Rated PG – 104 minutes

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, February 19
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration begins Thursday, January 15

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our February book is Squished by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter. Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, February 26
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

MARCH

Lego Club
Monday, March 2
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, March 4
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens
Registration begins Wednesday, February 4

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Preschool Makerspace
Friday, March 6
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Make, try, create and play at the Library. Young children will explore a variety of stations with open-ended creative activities designed to encourage early learning. Children need an active adult partner to help them. Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, March 10
4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration begins Tuesday, February 10

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read a book related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The March theme is Bugs. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, March 12
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2
Registration begins Thursday, February 12 

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The March theme is Inventions. Registration is required.

 

Drop-in Leprechaun Trap Craft
Saturday, March 14
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Drop-in and use your creativity to design a trap to catch a leprechaun before St. Patrick’s Day. Registration is not required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, March 19
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration begins Thursday, February 19

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our March book is The Mysterious Moonstone by Eric Luper. Registration is required.

 

Make Your Own Spring Break Craft Bag
Monday, March 23
4:30 – 5:30 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Drop-in and put together your own craft and activity bag to take with you on your travels or use at home during spring break. Registration is not required.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, March 26
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required

Winter Teen and Tween Events

Mollie Hall

Pick up a copy of the Winter Teen & Tween brochure and the monthly youth department calendars at the Library or download PDFs below. See each event page for more details and to register. Registration is required for most Teen and Tween events – check each event page for more information.

Winter Reading Bingo Challenge

Monday, December 15 – Thursday, January 15

Youth and Teens

Registration on Beanstack required

Youth and Teens can complete a variety of reading challenges on Beanstack this December. Sign up on the Beanstack web site or app starting on Monday, December 15. Read different kinds of books and do activities to receive badges. Need help selecting books? Find our lists in Beanstack or on our web site. Complete 5 activity badges in a row to get a bingo and win a small prize, then complete all 25 badges to fill your bingo card and get a free book. Prizes will be available for pickup starting on Monday, December 22. Prizes will be available for pickup until Friday, January 30.

Graham Cracker Gingerbread House Decorating

Saturday, December 13

2:00 – 2:45 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Thursday, November 13

Use graham crackers, frosting, and all kinds of candy to build your own festive gingerbread-style masterpiece. We’ll provide the supplies; you provide the creativity.

Pizza and Games

Monday, December 22

1:30 – 3:00 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Monday, November 24

Eat pizza and play games with friends. We’ll have ping pong, foosball, and a variety of board and card games available to play.

KPop Demon Hunters Party

Tuesday, December 30

2:00 – 3:30 pm

Grades 3-8

Drop-in program; no registration required

Party like K-Pop superstars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey at the Library! Students in grades 3-8 can drop in between 2:00 and 3:00 pm for crafts and activities inspired by the hit movie. Costumes are welcome!

Mug Decorating and Hot Cocoa Bar

Saturday, January 3

2:00 – 3:15 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required – Begins Wednesday, December 3

Usher in some cozy winter vibes while you get creative. Enjoy a hot cocoa bar and snacks with your friends, then decorate a mug. Take home instructions on how to make your mug dishwasher-safe.

Teen Tech Take-Apart

Thursday, January 15

2:00 – 3:15 pm

Grades 7 – 12

Registration required; begins Tuesday, January 16

Teens: Do you like learning how things work? Ever wanted to take something apart? This is your chance! Join us to use tools to deconstruct small electronics and see what makes them tick. Then we’ll use the disassembled pieces to create art.

Teen/Tween Crochet Crafternoon

Monday, January 19

1:30 – 3:00 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required – Begins Monday, December 15

Join us for a chance to learn crochet or practice your skills. Beginners and more advanced teen and tween crocheters are welcome. Learn a new project or bring in what you’ve been working on!

Mini Golf at the Library

Children of All Ages

Drop-in program; registration not required

Two Days:

Are you ready to test your skill and take a swing at our 9-hole mini-golf course in the Library?  It’s a hole lotta fun! We’ll provide the putters and golf balls, you provide the talent! Everyone welcome.

Polymer Clay Mini Charms

Friday, February 13

2:00 – 3:15 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Tuesday, January 13

Make cute mini figurines with polymer clay that you can turn into charms for jewelry or keychains.

Scrape Painting

Saturday, February 28

1:30 – 2:30 pm

Grades 5-12

Registration required; begins Wednesday, January 28

Try something new with this process-focused abstract art form. Experiment with the scrape painting techniques using squeegees and other tools to make a piece of art that is one of a kind.

Pi Day Pie Tasting

Saturday, March 14

3:00 – 3:45 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required – Begins Friday, February 13

Celebrate Pi (the number) by eating some pie (dessert)! Sample multiple varieties of pies and help us determine which is the best.

Teen Books and Bites

Grades 7 – 9

Registration required

Teens in grades 7 through 9 are invited to Books and Bites book club. Join us each month to eat snacks and talk about books with other teens. Read something new each month, or discuss books and series you’ve already read.

  • Wednesday, January 28, 4:30 – 5:30 pm – Theme: 1st Book in a Series. Registration begins Thursday, January 2.
  • Wednesday, February 18,  4:30 – 5:30 pm – Book: The Inheritance Games by . Registration begins Wednesday, January 28.
  • Wednesday, March 18,  4:30 – 5:30 pm – Theme: Sports and Hobbies. Registration begins Wednesday, February 18.

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

Grades 7-12

Registration required

Teens in grades 7 through 12 meet during the summer to enjoy a pizza lunch then work on projects for the Summer Reading Program. TAG members also have the opportunity to help out at several events throughout the summer. This is a fun way to earn volunteer hours!

Tween Book Club

Grades 5 – 7

Registration required

Tween Book Club is for students in grades 5 through 7. Read this month’s book or theme and then join us for icebreakers, snack, discussion, and a related activity. Get a copy of the month’s book at the Youth Reference Desk after you register.

  • Tuesday, December 16, 4:30 – 5:30 pm – Book: Free Piano (Not Haunted) by Whitney Gardner. Registration begins Tuesday, November 18.
  • Tuesday, January 13,  4:30 – 5:30 pm – Book: The Great Greene Heist by Varian Johnson. Registration begins Tuesday, December 16.
  • Tuesday, February 10,  4:30 – 5:30 pm – Book: Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt. Registration begins Tuesday, January 13.
  • Tuesday, March 10,  4:30 – 5:30 pm – Theme: Read a Science Fiction book to discuss at book club. Check out a book from the Library or bring a book from home. Registration begins Tuesday, February 10.

Chess Club

Kids and Teens

Registration required

Kids and teens: if you enjoy playing chess, join us! Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club.

makerspaceMakerspace

Grades K-8

Drop-in Program; No registration required

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination.

Magic: The Gathering

Grades 5-12

Join us for MTG tournament-style play on select Friday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Prizes awarded to top players. Everyone in grades 5 through 12 with knowledge of game play and rules is invited to attend. Please bring a Commander deck to each session. This event is co-sponsored with 5 Healthy Towns and SRSLY Dexter.

Lego Club

Grades K-8

Drop-in Program; No registration required

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.

fall youth programs

Fall Events for Children

Ruth Jansen

The Dexter District Library offers a variety of youth programs including Story Times, book clubs, STEM events, and craft programs. Some programs may require registration. Please read the program description carefully when registering for an event.

 

FALL STORY TIMES

Drop-In Story Times at the Library
Combined Story Time on Monday & Thursday mornings at 11:00 am
Toddler Story Time on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am
Preschool Story Time on Tuesday mornings at 11:00 am
September 22 – November 13
Lower Level Large Meeting Room

No registration required

Combined Story Time for ages 5 & under will be held on Monday and Thursday mornings at 11:00 am.

Toddler Story Time for children 18 months to 3 years of age will be held on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am.

Preschool Story Time for children 3 to 5 years of age will be held on Tuesday mornings at 11:00 am.

Children under 18 months may attend, however books and activities are geared for toddlers and preschoolers. Infants are welcome at story times with their siblings.  Parents or caregivers are required to attend. Each program lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Our story times include picture, pop-up and interactive books, flannel-board stories, songs, puppets, finger plays and other activities that encourage a love of reading.

 

Registered Small Group Story Times
Toddler Small Group Story Time on Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am
Preschool Fall Story Time on Wednesday mornings at 11:00 am
September 24 – November 12
First Floor Youth Program Room

Registration required and begins on Wednesday, September 10

Registration is required for Toddler Small Group Story Time and Preschool Small Group Story Time as space is limited. Parents or caregivers of children may register on our website through our calendar of events or by calling 734-426-4477. Children may only be registered for one 8-week session. Registration will be on a first come first served basis.

Toddler Small Group Story Time for children 18 months to 3 years of age will be held on Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am.

Preschool Small Group Story Time for children 3 to 5 years of age will be held on Wednesday mornings at 11:00 am.

Children under 18 months may attend, however books and activities are geared for toddlers and preschoolers. Infants are welcome at story times with their siblings.  Parents or caregivers are required to attend. Each program lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Our story times include picture, pop-up and interactive books, flannel-board stories, songs, puppets, finger plays and other activities that encourage a love of reading.

 

SEPTEMBER

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, September 9
4:30 – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners

Registration begins Tuesday, August 12

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The September theme is Dragons. Registration is required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, September 10
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, August 13

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, September 11
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2

Registration begins Thursday, August 14

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The September theme is School. Registration is required.

 

KinderConcert!
Saturday, September 13
12:00 pm – 12:30 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Children ages five and younger and their caregivers will find that music comes alive during this 30-minute concert.  Don’t worry about wiggly tots sitting still for a concert – they will be encouraged to dance and move while listening to the music, hearing a story being told with musical accompaniment and learning about a special orchestral instrument.  Members of the A2SO lead children on a guided introduction to the instruments of the orchestra. Registration is not required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, September 18
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4

Registration begins Thursday, August 21

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our September book will be World According to Humphrey by Betty G. Birney. Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, September 25
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in Fall Crafts
Saturday, September 27
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Celebrate the autumn season by making a variety of seasonal crafts including a fall leaf wind chime. Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Tuesday, September 30
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

OCTOBER

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, October 7
4:30 – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners

Registration begins Tuesday, September 9

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The October theme is Nocturnal Animals. Registration is required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, October 8
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, September 10

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, October 9
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2

Registration begins Thursday, September 11

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The October theme is Monsters. Registration is required.

 

Preschool Makerspace
Friday, October 10
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Make, try, create and play at the Library. Young children will explore a variety of stations with open-ended creative activities designed to encourage early learning. Children need an active adult partner to help them. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in Spooky Crafts
Tuesday, October 14
2:30 – 3:30 pm
Children of all ages

Drop-in and create seasonal crafts inspired by spooky things that go bump in the night. Registration is not required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, October 16
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4

Registration begins Thursday, September 18

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our October book will be Donut the Destroyer by Sarah Graley & Stef Purenins. Registration is required.

 

Storybook Tales with Bright Star Touring Theatre
Saturday, October 18
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Whether it’s dashing through the streets of Gepetto’s Italian village, or romping through the enchanted forest with Hansel & Gretel, comic duo Lenny and Mabel, “The Greatest Actors In The World” are sure to delight in this fun collection of stories. Join Lenny and Mabel as they bring their traveling show featuring Gepetto and his little wooden boy Pinocchio. Learn lessons of responsibility and parental love as Pinocchio struggles to become real. Then travel to Germany with Hansel & Gretel! These tales are sure to delight any young audience, or anyone who is young at heart. Registration is not required.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, October 23
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-In Halloween Story Time and Craft
Saturday, October 25
11:00 am – 11:30 am
Ages 5 and under

Join us for a fun Halloween story time filled with spooky books, songs, and flannel board fun! Geared for children ages five and under but everyone is welcome. A simple craft will follow the story time. Registration is not required.

 

NOVEMBER

Lego Club
Tuesday, November 4
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, November 5
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, October 8

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Drop-in Nutcracker Crafts
Thursday, November 6
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Children of all ages

Drop-in and create Nutcracker crafts to decorate your home. Registration is not required.

 

Ballet Story Time and Preview Performance
Saturday, November 8
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Join us for a special Ballet Story Time and then watch Ballet Chelsea, who will share a preview of their winter ballet, The Nutcracker. We’ll begin with a short story time, followed by dancers performing parts of their show while in costume. Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, November 11
4:30 – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners

Registration begins Tuesday, October 7

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The November theme is Fall. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, November 13
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2

Registration begins Thursday, October 9

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The November theme is Food. Registration is required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, November 20
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4

Registration begins Thursday, October 16

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our November book will be I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic by Lauren Tarshis.  Registration is required.

 

Drop-In Thanksgiving Story Time and Craft
Saturday, November 22
11:00 am – 11:30 am
Ages 5 and under

Join us for this seasonal story time celebrating Thanksgiving, food, and families. Geared for children ages five and under but everyone is welcome. A simple craft will follow the story time. Registration is not required

 

Make Your Own Craft Bag for Thanksgiving Break
Monday, November 24
4:30 – 5:30 pm
For kids of all ages
Drop-In Program

Drop-in and put together your own craft and activity bag to take with you on your travels or use at home during the holiday break. Registration is not required

 

Makerspace
Thursday, November 29
11:00 am – 12:0 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

DECEMBER

Lego Club
Tuesday, December 2
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, December 3
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, November 5

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for our monthly chess games this fall. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library to use during Chess Club. Registration is required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, December 9
4:30 – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners

Registration begins Tuesday, November 11

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their child. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The December theme is Food. Registration is required.

Special Collections

Scott Wright
LEL

LinkedIn Learning

Scott Wright

LinkedIn Learning, formerly known as Lynda.com, is a video training database with:

  • 16,000+ online courses in 7 languages.
  • Expert Instructors with real-world experience.
  • 60 new courses added each week!
  • Courses cover: Leadership, Project Management, Excel, Sales, Job Hunting, Cloud Computing, Python, DevOps, Data Science, Digital Marketing, Photography, Videography, 3D and Animation, CAD, and much more.

Log in using your Dexter District Library card that begins with 29221 and your pin.  If you are a Dexter resident and have one of our older cards beginning with 29082, stop by the Library to upgrade for free.

For the mobile app – use LibraryID: dexterdistrictlibrary

Kanopy and Creativebug

Kanopy & Creativebug

Scott Wright

The popular on-demand film streaming service Kanopy is now available free to Dexter District Library patrons. Library cardholders whose cards begin with 29221 can access Kanopy and sign up to start streaming films instantly by visiting https://dexter.kanopy.com. If you have one of our older library cards that begins with 29082, please stop by the Library and we’ll upgrade it free.

Films can be streamed from any computer, television, mobile device or platform by downloading the Kanopy app for Android/Chromecast, iOS/AppleTV, Amazon Fire Tablets (not sticks), or Roku.  You may check out up to 10 titles (plays) per card, per month.  The loan period is 72 hours (3 days.)  Click here for help with Kanopy.

Get the App for:

kanopy for roku

Creative Bug

Dexter District Library cardholders can now access Creativebug by Jo-Ann, the award-winning destination for high-quality online arts and crafts video classes. With it, you can enjoy unlimited access to over 1,000 video classes taught by experts with new classes added daily. Here are a few key features:

  • Over 1,000 ad-free, concisely edited classes in HD video including:
    • Drawing
    • Painting
    • Sewing
    • Knitting
    • Crocheting
    • Quilting
    • Baking
  • New classes from top artists released every day
  • Downloadable patterns, templates, and recipes
  • Access to Creativebug community galleries and forum

HOW IT WORKS

Creativebug is currently available on laptops, desktops, tablets, and mobile phones via the Creativebug app or web browser. The Creativebug app is available via the App Store and Google Play. With the app, you can download your class and take it on the go.

Create a Creativebug account here using your Dexter District Library card that begins with 29221:
https://www.creativebug.com/lib/dexterlib
(Do you still have a library card that begins with 29082?  Please stop by the Library and upgrade it free.)

Once you’ve created an account, you will use that to access the features such as My Library, My Watchlist, and My Gallery.

Hotspots and laptop kits

Hotspots and Laptop/Hotspot Kits

Scott Wright

Mobile hotspots from AT&T, Mobile Beacon, T-Mobile, and Verizon available for checkout.
Click here to view the hotspots and place a hold.

We also have laptop / hotspot combo kits available.
Click here to view the laptop/hotspot kits and place a hold.

Goal

Our goal of providing a hotspot collection is to allow Dexter District Library patrons with valid Dexter District Library cards the opportunity to test a particular carrier before purchasing their own device and for temporary uses such as vacations, education, employment, special projects, etc. They are not intended to provide patrons with permanent Internet access.

Due to our government contracts with AT&T, Mobile Beacon, and T-Mobile – we are able to offer hotspots with no data caps and no throttling.  Be aware that such contracts may not be available to you as an individual; or, if they are available, they may be prohibitively expensive.  Our Verizon hotspots have unlimited monthly data, but will enforce a speed cap of 500 Kbps after 30GB of monthly usage.

Policy

In order to make our hotspots more widely available to our patrons, the following rules will be enforced regarding holds:

  1. Holds will be limited to ONE per Item Queue per household per 30 days (Household – a family or occupants residing at the same address.)
  2. Holds not picked up within 7 days will be released as per standard procedure.
  3. Thank you for your cooperation and please, if you are unable to pick up your hotspot — let us know so that we can check it out to the next person on our waiting list and replace your hold.

 

Checking out a Dexter District Library Hotspot / Laptop Kit

If there are hotspots/laptops available, take an item tag from the hanging display near the second floor computer lab.

Give the tag to the Adult Librarian and they will retrieve the item and then accompany you to the circulation desk to checkout.  A valid Dexter District Library card required.

Two week checkout, no renewals, $1 per day overdue fine

If the hotspot is 10 days overdue the data plan will be canceled and the hotspot will cease to function. You will be billed the complete cost of the kit (see more information.)

Return the hotspot to our Checkout Desk. Please DO NOT return to another library or put the hotspot in the outdoor book drop.  All items will be cleaned/inspected by Library staff before recirculating.  Laptops will be purged of all user data so be sure to save your work to a flash drive or email it to yourself before returning the laptop.

 

Using a Dexter District Library Hotspot / Laptop Kit

Turn the hotspot on (see instructions inside the case for details).

On your device (computer, tablet, phone etc) go to your Wi-Fi settings and connect to the DexLib(Carrier)(Number) network. It will look something like DexLibSPR01 or DexLibVER02.  When prompted enter the password: libhotspot (all lowercase).  If you are using one of our laptop kits, it will automatically connect with the associated hotspot once both are powered on.

Notes

You DO NOT need to unlock the hotspot. You just need to turn it on using the directions provided in the case.

Signal strength will show up as bars on the the hotspot screen.

It is possible, depending on where you live, that the hotspot you check out will have no signal and therefore not function.  This is one of the goals of our project, to help you to identify this situation without committing to any contracts.

More Information

Each hotspot can support up to 10 devices connecting to them at once and have 30-40 foot range.

If the device is overdue by 10 days, the data plan will be canceled and the patron will be billed.  Laptops will be remotely deactivated.

If the hotspot/laptop kit is lost or damaged, the Library will deactivate the data plan on the device and will charge the patron the cost for replacement. The hotspot (depending on the carrier) costs between $92 and $199 to replace.  The laptop costs $959.85.

The whole laptop kit costs between $1159 and $1267 to replace.

Hotspots only work in the continental United States.  They do not work internationally, including Canada.

Hotspots are meant to be placed on a table or shelf – Please do not tape or adhere the devices to any surface.

You may see signal strength variations on the hotspot depending on where you have placed it inside your home.  Move it around to locate the best signal strength.

Michigan Activity Pass

Scott Wright

The Michigan Activity Pass presented by The Library Network program is a partnership between 638 public libraries, 11 library cooperatives, and 400+ destinations. The program is designed to enhance the learning experience for people of all ages through books and other library materials, and to provide reduced cost or complimentary access to arts and cultural organizations across the state of Michigan, from Monroe to Mackinaw City to Marquette, and all points in between.  All passes are issued online through the MAP site:

http://MIActivityPass.org