Category: Spotlight

Summer Reading Program and Events for Children

Ruth Jansen

“COLOR OUR WORLD” SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Monday, June 16 – Friday, August 1

The Youth Summer Reading Programs are open to children and teens of all ages through grade 12.

Registration begins Monday, June 16. You can participate online using the Beanstack website or app, or participate in person using a paper log.

Choose One of Three Programs:

  • Children who cannot yet read may participate with a parent or caregiver by signing up for the Read-to-Me program. Keep track of your reading goal and receive small weekly prizes beginning Monday, June 23.
  • Children who can read on their own may sign up for the Reading Club program and will earn a variety of beads and build their own personal lanyard reading log beginning Monday, June 23.
  • Teens and Tweens in grades 5 through 12 can sign up for the Teen Reading program. Keep track of the number of hours you read to receive small weekly prizes beginning Monday, June 23.

Complete all 6 weeks of the Summer Reading Program and turn in your reading record between Monday, July 28 and Sunday, August 10 to receive a goody bag and automatically be entered into the Final Prize Drawing to be held on Monday, August 11. Goody bags will continue to be available for pick-up until the beginning of the school year while supplies last.

Events – See each event page for more details and to register. Registration may be required for events.

Drop-In Summer Story Time at the Library
Monday & Thursday mornings at 11:00 am
June 23 – July 31
No registration required
Toddlers and Preschoolers

Drop-In Summer Story Time for toddlers and preschoolers will start on Monday, June 23 and run through Thursday, July 31. We will be meeting in the Lower-Level Meeting Room.

Story Time will be held on Mondays and repeated on Thursdays at 11:00 am. Books and activities are geared for toddlers and preschoolers. Each program lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Our story times will include picture, pop-up and interactive books, flannel-board stories, songs, puppets, finger plays and other activities that encourage a love of reading. Registration is not required.

 

JUNE

Crazy Craig Juggling Show: Summer Reading Kick-Off Event
Monday, June 16
11:00 am – 11:45 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Wolverine Glass

Be prepared for a high-energy, interactive, comedy, juggling, and variety show with performer Craig Wise. This 45-minute program full of non-stop action and audience participation is for all ages and will keep everyone on the edge of their seats, wanting more of his fun, crazy antics. Refreshments will be served at the Farmers Market following the show. This event kicks off this year’s Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in DIY Fan Craft
Tuesday, June 17
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Cool off this summer with a fan that you decorate yourself. We will supply a variety of markers, paint markers, and other embellishments to make the fan your own. Registration is not required.

 

“Color Our World” Mini Canvas Painting
Wednesday, June 18
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

This drop-in event is for children of all ages. Stop by the Library on Wednesday, June 18 any time from 10:00 am until noon and paint a mini-canvas. Registration is not required.

 

Music at the Blissful Concert with Evan Haller
Saturday, June 21
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

National touring musician Music at the Blissful (Evan Haller) visits Dexter District Library for a fun-filled, interactive, movement-packed music experience for the whole family.  Come join the fun as we sing, jump, shake, laugh and go slow and fast with Music at The Blissful. Playing featuring songs off his new album, “What’s Next?” This is sure to be an action-packed good time for all. Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, June 24
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration required and begins Tuesday, May 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 children. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The June theme is Color. Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Wednesday, June 25
2:00 pm – 3:00 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.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, June 26
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration required and begins Thursday, May 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 June book is Art Club by Rashad Doucet. Registration is required.

 

MellyPop! Puppets – “Chicken Little and Friends” Puppet Show
Friday, June 27
11:00 am – 11:45 am
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Come along and hang out with Aunt Betty, Chicken Little, and all your favorite barnyard buddies for a classic tale with a fun twist—YOU get to choose how it ends! This lively, interactive show mixes puppets, music, and plenty of laughs. It’s inspired by the beloved folk tales of ‘Chicken Little’ and ‘Henny Penny.’ Join the fun! Registration is not required.

 

Art Imitation Stations
Saturday, June 28
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Art projects for children based on the styles and methods of famous artists. Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Monday, June 30
2:30 – 3:30 pm
Kids and Teens
Registration begins Wednesday, June 4

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for a special session of Chess Club this summer. 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 for this event. Registration is required.

 

JULY

Lego Club
Tuesday, July 1
 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.

 

Ice Cream Social for Dexter Library Card Holders and Drop-In Crafts
Wednesday, July 2
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Dexter Creamery

Show your Dexter District Library card and receive FREE ice cream – located in front of the Library. During our Ice Cream Social, there will be a variety of drop-in crafts on the lower level for all ages. Registration is not required.

 

Minecraft Party
Tuesday, July 8
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

If you missed the Minecraft party this winter or want to relive the fun, you’re in luck! This is another chance to celebrate your favorite building game. Unplug and take part in Minecraft-inspired games and crafts in real life. Creep on in anytime during this drop-in event. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in DIY Lei Craft
Wednesday, July 9
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Celebrate the summer season by creating your own lei to wear. String together colorful foam flowers and beads to make your own unique lei. Registration is not required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, July 10
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Grades 1 – 2
Registration required and begins Thursday, June 5

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 July theme is Oceans. Registration is required.

 

Big Truck and Emergency Vehicle Day
Friday, July 11
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

The Dexter District Library will host a large variety of trucks and emergency vehicles for children and adults of all ages to experience, rain or shine. The parking lot will be closed during this event to allow freedom to browse, tour and talk to the owners and operators of the wonderful machines that make our lives easier and safer. Bring your camera – there will be plenty of photo opportunities with the vehicles and special Cool Cat costumed character. Registration is not required.

 

Nutty Scientist’s Light and Color Workshop
Tuesday, July 15
Session 1 – 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Session 2 – 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Grades K – 4
Registration required and begins Friday, June 20

School-aged children in grades K – 4 are invited to reserve a spot at one of the two sessions that are offered. Join the Nutty Scientists of Southeast Michigan for a one-hour STEAM program exploring light and color! We will learn about how our brains work with our eyes to take in the colorful world around us, through exciting, hands-on experiments. We will be creating colorful spy-like secret messages and pictures, discover the wonders of refraction, and make our very own take-home kaleidoscopes! Come and get creative while we learn about the magic of everyday science! Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Wednesday, July 16
2:00 pm – 3:00 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.

 

 

Cameron Zvara: Comedy Magician & Entertainer Magic Show
Friday, July 18
11:00 am – 11:45 pm
All Ages
Registration is not required

Join us for a morning of FUN with Comedy Magician & Entertainer- Cameron Zvara! Cameron’s show is filled with mind blowing magic, comedy, juggling, music, and TONS of audience participation. You do not want to miss out! Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, July 22
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration required and begins Tuesday, June 24

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 children. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The July theme is Summer. Registration is required.

 

Textured Sunflowers on Canvas Workshop with KidCreate Studio
Wednesday, July 23
Session 1 – 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Session 2 – 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Grades K – 4
Registration required and begins Wednesday, June 25

Children in grades K-4 are invited to reserve a spot at one of the two sessions that are offered of this exciting art workshop. Artists will use plaster and paint to make a colorful masterpiece in the style of Van Gogh’s sunflowers! Registration is required. Registration is required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, July 24
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration required and begins Thursday, June 26

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 July book is Stick Dog by Tom Watson. Registration is required.

 

Camouflage Animals: Live Animal program
Friday, July 25
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Learn how animals use camouflage to survive, feed, and find shelter in their natural environments. This amazing show features a variety of animals from different countries and diverse ecosystems. Registration is not required.

 

Preschool Pigeon Party
Saturday, July 26
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Children ages 5 and under, along with their caregivers, are invited to a special party celebrating Mo Willem’s Pigeon books. Explore a variety of stations with Pigeon crafts, games, and other activities. Registration is not required.

 

Adopt a Stuffed Animal Pet
Tuesday, July 29
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program 

Drop by the library and choose a mini stuffed animal to adopt as a pet. Fill out a certificate of adoption, decorate a pet carrier, and make a beaded collar for your pet to wear. These pets make great reading buddies too! Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Tuesday, July 29
 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.

 

Movie & Popcorn for Kids
Dog Man (PG – 2025)
Wednesday, July 30
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

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

When a dog and a police officer are injured together on the job, a life-saving surgery changes the course of history. Half dog, half man, Dog Man is sworn to protect and serve as he doggedly pursues his arch-nemesis: the feline supervillain Petey the Cat. But the rivalry between Dog Man and Petey is upended by the arrival of an adorable kitten clone of Petey, Lil Petey.

Rated PG – 93 minutes

 

AUGUST

Big Bubble Dance Party – Summer Reading Program Wrap-Up Event
Friday, August 1
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Children of all ages will enjoy playing with a huge variety of bubble wands to create bubbles while dancing to family friendly music as bubble machines create thousands of bubbles all around! Registration is not required.

 

Preschool Makerspace
Tuesday, August 5
11:00 – 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, August 26
 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.

Summer Reading Program and Events for Teens and Tweens

Mollie Hall

June 16 through August 1

The Teen & Tween Summer Reading Program (SRP) is open to students entering grades 5 – 12 in the fall.

Registration begins June 16. You can participate online using the Beanstack web site or app, or participate in person using a paper log.

How the Teen Reading Program works:

  • Register using your preferred method – online or in person.
  • Read 2 or more hours a week.
  • Check in at the Youth Reference Desk each week beginning June 23 and get a scratch-off ticket and reveal your prize.

Complete all 6 weeks of the Summer Reading Program and turn in your reading record between Monday, July 28 and Sunday, August 10 to receive a goody bag and automatically be entered into the Final Prize Drawing to be held on Monday, August 11. Goody bags will continue to be available for pick-up until the beginning of the school year while supplies last.

Teen & Tween Events – See each event page for more details and to register. Registration is required for most Teen and Tween events.

MiLibraryQuest

Monday, June 16 – Thursday, July 31

Grades 5 – 12

Virtual Event

Paintings have been stolen from museums across Michigan! The subjects of the paintings have come to life to leave you some clues to where they’ve been taken and who might have done it. Can you catch the thief? Dexter teens and tweens can participate in the Quest starting on June 16 for a chance to win a gift card. Complete this activity virtually at any time on our own. Visit www.mi.gov/MiLibraryQuest to learn more.

“Color Our World” Photo Contest

Wednesday, June 18  – Friday, August 1

Grades 5 through 12

Submit an original photo of the colorful world around you for a chance to win a gift card. Be sure to get creative and have fun! Submit up to one photo in each of three different categories: Colors of Nature, Work of Art, and Pet Portrait. Deadline for all entries is Friday, August 1. More details will be found on the Library’s web site.

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

Grades 7-12

Registration required

Teens in grades 7 through 12 meet during the summer to eat a pizza lunch, give input on events, and work with other teens to help make the Library an even better place!

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, June 24, 1:00 – 2:00 pm – Book: The Mona Lisa Vanishes by Nicholas Day. Registration begins Tuesday, May 20.
  • Tuesday, July 2, 1:00 – 2:00 pm – Book: Gamerville by Johnnie Christmas. Registration begins Tuesday, June 24

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

Grades 5-12

Join us for MTG tournament-style play. Prizes awarded to top players. Everyone in grades 6 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.

Sand Art and Summer Crafts

Tuesday, June 17

2:30 – 3:15 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Tuesday, May 27

Teens and tweens can create sand art and make other fun summer crafts.

 

Comics Workshop with Meggie Ramm

Monday, June 23

2:00 – 3:00 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required, begins Monday, June 2

Meggie Ramm, author and artist of the Batcat series, will present their workshop “Emanata: The Secret Code of Comics” for teens and tweens this summer. Bring your comics to life with emanata! Emanata are the stars that appear when Wile E. Coyote collides with a wall or the squiggles that show your character busting a sick dance move. In this class we’ll decode the various emanata that you can use to bring your characters and stories to life!

 

Chess Club

Monday, June 30

2:30 – 3:30 pm

Kids and Teens

Registration required; begins Wednesday, June 4

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for a special session of Chess Club this summer. 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 for this event.

 

Teen/Tween Live Animal Program with Creature Conservancy

Tuesday, July 1

1:00 – 2:00 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Tuesday, June 10

Teens and tweens will get to see a variety of animals up close in an educational and fun session just for grades 5 through 12.

 

Minecraft Party

Tuesday, July 8

2:00 – 3:30 pm

Grades K – 8

Drop-in program; no registration required

If you missed the Minecraft party this winter or want to relive the fun, you’re in luck! This is another chance to celebrate your favorite building game. Unplug and take part in Minecraft-inspired games and crafts in real life. Creep on in anytime during this drop-in event.

 

Sword Fighting Workshop

Wednesday, July 9

Please register for only 1 session:

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Wednesday, June 11

Combat performance group Theatrica Gladiatoria will demonstrate the art of theatrical sword fighting. This is also a hands-on workshop where you’ll get to try it yourself, so be ready to move!

 

Tote Bag Decorating

Monday, July 14

2:00 – 3:00 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Thursday, June 12

Decorate your own tote bag using fabric paint! Perfect for carrying library books, beach accessories, and more! All supplies will be provided.

 

Painting Workshop with Katie Rothley

Thursday, July 17

7:00 – 8:00 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Thursday, June 19

Get creative with this artist-guided painting experience. Librarian and artist Katie Rothley will show you how to create an abstract kaleidoscope-inspired painting on canvas using acrylic paints.

 

Teen Movie, Pizza, and Craft

Thursday, July 24

6:00 – 8:00 pm

Grades 7 – 12

Registration required; begins Thursday, June 26

Teens can come to the library to watch Twisters (2024, PG-13) on the big screen and make crafts. Pizza dinner will be provided.

 

Bad Art Afternoon

Friday, July 25

2:30 – 3:45 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Friday, June 27

Come to the library to create the worst art you can make. That’s right – don’t worry about making something good, just enjoy the creative process! Many materials will be on hand for you to make your disasterpiece. At the end, we’ll vote on a “worst of the worst” to win a trophy commemorating their achievement.

 

Sweet Treat Mosaics

Monday, July 28

2:00 – 2:45 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Tuesday, July 1

Want to get creative while satisfying your sweet tooth? Try your hand at making a mosaic using frosting and candies.

 

Life-Size Clue

Thursday, July 31

6:00 – 7:30 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Tuesday, July 1

We’re finishing the Teen and Tween Summer Reading Program with a life-size version of the classic board game Clue! Channel your inner detective as you move around the board, making guesses and trying to find out “whodunit.” Pizza dinner will also be served.

Spring Youth Programs

Spring 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.

 

SPRING 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
March 24 – May 8
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 Story Time

Toddler Small Group Story Time on Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am
Preschool Small Group Story Time on Wednesday mornings at 11:00 am
March 26 – May 7
First Floor Youth Program Room

Registration required and begins on Monday, March 3

 

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 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.

 

MARCH

St. Patrick’s Day Story Time
Saturday, March 1
11:00 – 11:30 am
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Join us for this special story time celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Geared for children ages five and under but everyone is welcome. A simple craft will follow the story time. Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Tuesday, March 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, March 5
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, February 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.

 

Preschool Makerspace
Friday, March 7
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 11
4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners

Registration begins Tuesday, February 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 March theme is Dinosaurs. Registration is required.

 

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

Registration begins Thursday, February 20

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 Leprechauns. Registration is required.

 

Make Your Own Spring Break Craft Bag
Wednesday, March 19
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.

 

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

Registration begins Thursday, February 27

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 will be a graphic novel. Registration is required.

 

Creature Conservancy’s Live Animal Program for Grades K-4
Tuesday, March 25
Session 1 – 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm
Session 2 – 2:15 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades K – 4
Registration required

School-aged children in grades K – 4 are invited to reserve a spot at one of the sessions to see live animals, such as a sloth or armadillo, up close. To minimize stress on the animals, the audience size will be limited and age restrictions will be observed. Any adults accompanying K-4th grade children must also register to reserve a spot. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, February 25.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, March 27
2:30 pm – 3:30 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.

 

Dog Man Party
Friday, March 28
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Drop in and celebrate all things Dog Man! This Supa Awesome Party will include crafts, games, and activities inspired by your favorite Dav Pilkey character. Registration is not required

 

Drop-In Duck Decorating Craft
Saturday, March 29
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Grades K – 8

Drop-In Program

Join us at the Dexter District Library for a Drop-In Duck Decorating craft. Transform ordinary rubber ducks into imaginative creations. We’ll have a variety of art supplies so you can decorate your duck however you’d like! Registration is not required.

 

Movie & Popcorn for Kids
Moana 2 (PG – 2024)
Monday, March 31
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 Moana 2 (2024) on the big screen while enjoying a free bag of popcorn. Registration is not required. 

“Moana 2” reunites Moana and Maui three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.

Rated PG – 100 minutes

 

APRIL

Lego Club
Tuesday, April 1
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, April 2
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, March 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, April 8
4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners

Registration begins Tuesday, March 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 April theme is Spring. Registration is required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, April 10
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2

Registration begins Thursday, March 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 April theme is Spring. Registration is required.

 

Cotton Candy Science Show
Saturday, April 12
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Check out the sweetest science show around and discover the delicious science of cotton candy. Learn how it’s made, who invented it, see some fun experiments done with this wonderful, sugary treat, and have an opportunity to try some at the end of the show. Children of all ages will enjoy this fascinating program.  Registration is not required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, April 17
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4

Registration begins Thursday, March 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 April book will be The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary. Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, April 24
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 Spring Crafts
Saturday, April 26
Children of all ages
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Drop-In Program

Celebrate the season by decorating a flower photo frame and creating a Cheerio bird feeder. Registration is not required

 

MAY

Lego Club
Tuesday, May 6
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, May 7
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, April 2

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, May 8
 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Grades 1 – 2

Registration begins Thursday, April 10

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 May theme is Flight. Registration is required.

 

KinderConcert!
Saturday, May 10
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.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, May 13
4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners

Registration begins Tuesday, April 8

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 May theme is Transportation. Registration is required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, May 15
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades 3 – 4

Registration begins Thursday, April 17

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 May book will be The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies. Registration is required.

 

Preschool Makerspace
Saturday, May 17
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.

 

Makerspace
Thursday, May 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.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, June 4
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children and Teens

Registration begins Wednesday, May 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.

 

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

Registration begins Thursday, May 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 June theme is Color Our World. Registration is required.

Spring Teen and Tween Events

Mollie Hall

Pick up a copy of the seasonal 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.

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.

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.

  • Friday, March 7, 6:00 – 8:00 pm – Registration begins Friday, February 7.
  • Friday, April 4, 6:00 – 8:00 pm – Registration begins Friday, March 7
  • Friday, May 16, 6:00 – 8:00 pm – Registration begins Friday, April 4

 

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, March 18,  4:30 – 5:30 pm – Book: Snapdragon by Kat Leyh. Registration begins Tuesday, February 25.
  • Tuesday, April 15,  4:30 – 5:30 pm – Book: Ellie Engle Saves Herself by Leah Johnson. Registration begins Tuesday, March 18.
  • Tuesday, May 20, 4:30 – 5:30 pm – Theme: Read a book (fiction, nonfiction, or graphic novel) that features your favorite sport or hobby to discuss at book club. Check out a book from the Library or bring a book from home. Registration begins Tuesday, April 15.

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.

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.

Teen/Tween Crochet Crafternoon

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required

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!

Oreo Cookie Challenge

Saturday, March 8

1:30 – 2:30 pm

Grades 5-12

Registration required; begins Friday, February 7

Satisfy your taste buds and your competitive side in this fun program. Sample a variety of Oreo flavors and determine the best one, plus compete in Minute to Win It games using cookies.

Wicked Movie, Pizza, and Crafts

Monday, March 24

1:30 – 4:15 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required; begins Monday, February 24

Come to the library to watch Wicked (2024, PG) on the big screen and make crafts. Pizza lunch will be provided.

Teen Hunger Games Party

Wednesday, March 26

2:00 – 3:00 pm

Grades 7 – 12

Registration required; begins Wednesday, February 26

Join us for a special teens-only program to celebrate the release of the next book in the Hunger Games series – Sunrise on the Reaping. Do activities relating to the popular book series, plus attend to have a chance to win a copy of the book.

Pop-Art Pet and Animal Portraits

Saturday, May 17

1:00 – 2:00 pm

Grades 5 – 12

Registration required – Begins Thursday, April 17

Show off your furry friend and create a portrait anyone can paint! Trace an image of your pet or favorite animal, then use colorful watercolors to add pop and personality in this program inspired by artist Andrea Nelson.

 

Special Collections

Scott Wright

New Skills for 2025

Scott Wright

Start a New Hobby

Hobbies & Crafts Source can help you start a new hobby for 2025 such as knitting. “Knitting School” in Creative Knitting includes diagrams and instructions to help with basic techniques, as well as information about yarn weight and reading patterns. Using this guide you might knit a temperature afghan—a special blanket that includes one row per day of the year featuring a color for each temperature range. Once you’ve become proficient, you might even knit a hat and mittens set to keep warm outdoors. Speaking of getting outside, make 2025 your “Big Year”—the year you begin birdwatching and keep track of every type of bird you see. Bird Watcher’s Digest suggests that you don’t have to travel far and can instead modify this challenge to your own parameters in “A Local BIG YEAR” or perhaps narrow your watching even further into a category of birds such as birds of a particular color or size according to “A List of Lists.”

Do It Yourself

Maybe you are more of a do-it-yourselfer. Small Engine Repair Source can help you tune up and repair more than 80 makes of snowmobiles. Those who like to tinker will find information about ATVs, generators, outdoor power equipment, and even tractors. There are diagrams of various parts of many models as well as user manuals.

Fix Up Your Home

Gaining new skills to fix up your home and yard is another great way to spend 2025. Home Improvement Source can help us understand the pros and cons of “Off-Grid Heating Solutions” and what to consider when we want to find out “How to Create Your Dream Kitchen Extension” in Homebuilding & Renovating. Winter might be the perfect time to start planning a garden to provide both a hobby and healthy food all summer long. In the February 2025 issue of Log & Timber Home Living you’ll find “Growing Up,” an article with ideas for gardening in smaller spaces.

No matter what you decide to do with it, 2025 is a brand-new year and you are in charge of how you enjoy it. We hope you will continue to make the MeL eResources part of your journey.

OverDrive Reciprocal Lending Agreement – Updated 10/3/24

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:

  • 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)
  • 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 75,000+ titles, you have access to over 376,000 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.

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.