Lorain Public Library System Events

City Fresh Produce Pick‑Up: Tuesdays, Sept. 17, 24; Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; 4 p.m., Main Library, South Lorain Branch – City Fresh is a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program working to create access to fresh, local vegetables for all. With a weekly payment, participants receive a grab bag of the freshest seasonal produce, known as a “share.” Shares come in Single or Family sizes and are offered at tiered prices. Limited income and EBT shares are available. Order for as many or as few weeks as desired for pick up at either the Main Library or the South Lorain Branch. For more information, please visit cityfresh.org.

Latino Lorain History Exhibit: September 17 to 30, North Ridgeville Branch – Drop in during regular business hours to view an exhibit celebrating 100 years of Latino history in Lorain. This exhibit was co‑created by El Centro, the Lorain Historical Society and Oberlin College.

Friends of the Lorain Public Library Book Sale: Tuesday, Sept. 17; 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. • Wednesday, Sept. 18; 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Main Library – Preview 9/12/2024 is Members Only. The book sale is open to the public and is sponsored by the Friends of the Lorain Public Library.

Story Stop: Mondays, Sept. 23, 30; Oct. 7, 21, 28; Nov. 4; 11 to 11:30 a.m., Domonkas Branch • Tuesdays, Sept. 17, 24; Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Nov. 5; 10:30 to 11 a.m., Columbia Branch – Caregivers with children of all ages are invited for stories, activities and play. Preregistration required.

Little Learners: Tuesdays, Sept. 17, 24; Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Nov. 5; 10:45 to 11:15 a.m., North Ridgeville Branch • Thursdays, Sept. 19, 26; Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; Nov. 7; 10 to 10:45 a.m., Avon Branch – Children aged four and five with their caregivers can join us for engaging stories and activities that prepare them for kindergarten.  Preregistration required.

Teen Gaming: Open Play: Tuesdays, Sept. 17, 24; 3 to 5 p.m., Avon Branch – Bring your friends and join us during our free gaming hours! For ages 12 and up.

Video Game Music Appreciation: Tuesday, Sept. 17; 4 to 5 p.m., Main Library – Video games have produced a wide variety of memorable soundscapes. Kick back, relax and enjoy some of the finest pieces to have been produced in support of interactive entertainment. Preregistration required.

Brassica Basics: Tuesday, Sept. 17; 5 to 7 p.m., Columbia Branch – A demonstration of brassica vegetables, from Brussel sprouts to kale. Learn how to unlock their flavors and health benefits. Preregistration required.

Digital Skills Training: Tuesdays, Sept. 17, 24; Oct. 1, 8; 5 p.m. • Thursdays, Sept. 19, 26; Oct. 3, 10; 5 p.m., South Lorain Branch – This six‑week class will enable you to gain computer skills for daily life along with providing assistance on job seeking skills including applications, resume, job development and placement services. To register or find out more information contact 440‑244‑3174 ext. 440 or missionservices@gwlco.org. This program is offered in partnership with Techne and Goodwill of Lorain County.

Goodnight Main: Family Pajama Story Time: Tuesdays, Sept. 17, 24; 6 p.m., Main Library – Wear your cozy pajamas and join us for an evening story time with goodnight themes, activities and socializing. Designed for families with children Pre‑K through third grade. Preregistration required.

Books, Beats and Bubbles: Tuesdays, Sept. 17, 24; 6:30 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Move to the music in this high‑energy story, music and bubbles experience for toddlers and preschoolers. Best suited for ages 2 to 5 accompanied by an adult. Preregistration required.

Tech‑in‑Depth: Facebook Marketplace: Tuesday, Sept. 17; 6:30 p.m., Domonkas Branch – Learn more about everyday technologies and the applications that drive them to enrich your use and experience. Preregistration required.

Baby and Me: Wednesdays, Sept. 18, 25; 10 a.m., Main Library • Thursdays, Sept. 19, 26; Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; Nov. 7; 10 to 10:30 a.m., North Ridgeville Branch • Tuesdays, Sept. 24; Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Nov. 5; 10 to 10:30 a.m., Avon Branch – Bounce, wiggle and play at this interactive story time. For babies, birth through 18 months, or early walkers, with their caregivers. Preregistration required.

Ohio Means Jobs Career Counseling: Wednesdays, Sept. 18; Oct. 2, 16; Nov. 6, 20; 1 to 4:15 p.m., Main Library – Schedule a free appointment with an Ohio Means Jobs career counselor to assist you with resumes, cover letters, creating an effective job search strategy and interviewing tips. Preregistration required.

Finding Your Next Great Read: Wednesday, Sept. 18; 2 to 3:30 p.m., North Ridgeville Branch – Discover online resources to find your next great read. Preregistration required.

Play Chess: Wednesdays, Sept. 18, 25; 4 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Open play sessions are for all levels, from beginner to expert.

Carlo Wolff: Invisible Soul: Wednesday, Sept. 18; 6 to 7:30 p.m., Main Library – Join local music critic and journalist Carlo Wolff as he tells stories of the boisterous Cleveland music scene. Preregistration required.

The Life and Art of Vincent Van Gogh: Wednesday, Sept. 18; 6 to 7:30 p.m., Domonkas Branch – Explore the complex and creative life of one of the world’s most talented artists. Preregistration required. Hybrid

Science Explorers: Astronaut Ellen Ochoa: Wednesday, Sept. 18; 6:30 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Budding young scientists can explore different topics through hands‑on STEM activities and demonstrations. Preregistration required.

Book Discussions: Thursday, Sept. 19;10:30 a.m., Avon Branch “The Last Garden in England” by Julia Kelly • Monday, Sept. 23; 2 p.m., Columbia Branch “Next Year in Havana” by Chanel Cleeton • Tuesday, Sept. 24; 1 p.m., North Ridgeville Branch “The Unmaking of June Farrow” by Adrienne Young • Tuesday, Sept. 24; 6 p.m., Columbia Branch “Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair” by Pablo Neruda • Monday, Sept. 30; 6:30 p.m., Domonkas Branch – call branch for title • Tuesday, Oct. 1; 6:30 p.m., Domonkas Branch “Dinner in One: Exceptional & Easy One‑Pan Meals: A Cookbook” by Melissa Clark – Spend time each month discussing a great book and making new friends. Copies of the books are available at the library. New members are welcome. Preregistration required.

Parachute Play: Thursdays, Sept. 19, 26; Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; Nov. 7; 10:30 to 11 a.m., Columbia Branch – Stories, songs and rhymes with the parachute! This interactive and play‑filled story time is for ages 2 to 5. Preregistration required.

Read, Play and Learn Story Time: Thursdays, Sept. 19, 26; Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; Nov. 7; 11 a.m., South Lorain Branch – An interactive story time that includes songs and activities to encourage early learning and literacy. For children up to age 5 accompanied by an adult. Preregistration required.

Fiber Arts Groups: Thursday, Sept. 19, 26; Noon to 3 p.m. at the Avon Branch • Thursday, Sept. 19, 26; Noon to 4 p.m. at the Columbia Branch • Mondays, Sept. 23; Oct. 28; Nov. 25; 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. North Ridgeville Branch – For new and longtime knitters and crocheters. If you have a “UFO” (an Unfinished Object) that you would like to work on with us, bring it or start something new!

Adapted Story Time: Thursdays, Sept. 19; Oct. 10; Nov. 7; 6 to 6:45 p.m., Avon Branch – Children with varying learning styles and abilities enjoy a program with stories, songs, games and a social time. While content is geared for ages 3 to 7, all ages are welcome. Parents and siblings are welcome to attend. Preregistration required.

Create and Connect: Thursdays, Sept. 19; Oct. 3, 17; Nov. 7, 21; 6:30 p.m., Main Library – From novel writers to knitters to digital artists, creatives across mediums and skill levels are encouraged to drop in and work on their current project or try something new with supplied materials. Develop your skills while connecting with other creators in the community!

Loteria Fun and Games: Thursday, Sept. 19; 6:30 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning to play loteria games. Preregistration required.

Pet Rock Adoption Day: Friday, Sept. 20; 1 to 2 p.m., Columbia Branch – Meet our baby rocks and select one to give a forever home! Decorate your rock, choose a name, get an official adoption certificate and more. For ages 5 to 10. Preregistration required.

Geek Squad: Fridays, Sept. 20, 27; 2:30 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Call us at 440‑277‑5672 to book a 45‑minute one‑on‑one appointment for tech help with your Kindle, iPad, tablet, email and more!

Paper Collages: Friday, Sept. 20; 3 to 4:30 p.m., Main Library – We’ll discuss various styles of collage and use a simple technique to create our own. Preregistration required.

Beginner Spanish for Kids: Friday, Sept. 20; 4 to 4:30 p.m., Avon Branch – Children ages 4 to 8 interested in starting to learn Spanish are invited to enjoy games, crafts, songs, rhymes and activities. Preregistration required.

Browser’s Reading Buddies: Saturdays, Sept. 21; Oct. 19; Nov. 16; 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Avon Branch – Children ages 5 to 10 sit and read to a therapy dog for a 20‑minute session. Call the library at 440‑327‑8326 to register.

Sun and Stories: Saturdays, Sept. 21; Oct. 5, 19; Nov. 2, 16, 30; 10:30 a.m., Main Library – Join us in the library garden for a lively story time including music and outdoor activities to get your young ones moving! For ages 5 to 8. Will be presented indoors for inclement weather.

Natural Ohio with Lorain County Metro Parks: Saturday, Sept. 21; 11 a.m., Main Library – Explore a variety of native wildlife and habitats found throughout Ohio with natural artifacts such as skulls, bones, feathers, pelts and more from the wildlife that call our backyards home. Preregistration required.

Estate Planning: Saturdays, Sept. 21; Oct. 19; Nov. 9; 1 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Local attorney Robert Cabrera will discuss a variety of issues related to estate planning. Preregistration required.

ABCs of Art: Yayoi Kusama: Saturday, Sept. 21; 2 to 3 p.m., Domonkas Branch – Children ages 5 to 12 years will learn about contemporary Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama, and her art style. Participants will re‑create one of her famous pumpkins to take home. Preregistration required.

Teen Mario Kart Tournament: Saturday, Sept. 21; 2 to 4 p.m., Avon Branch – Join fellow gamers to compete for a small prize and the title of Mario Kart Champion. Open to ages 10 and up. Preregistration required.

The Twilight Zone 65th Anniversary Celebration: Sept. 21; “Walking Distance” and “Once Upon a Time” • Oct. 19; “The Howling Man” and “Printer’s Devil” • Nov. 16; “Will the Real Martian Please Stand Up?” and “Night of the Meek”, North Ridgeville Branch – Enjoy two episodes of the classic TV show that premiered in 1959 and quickly became a cornerstone of American pop culture. The strong moral sense of creator Rod Serling and excellent writing, directing and acting made this one of the greatest television series of all time.
Preregistration required.

“The Story of Ferdinand the Bull” and Instrument Petting Zoo: Saturday, Sept. 21; 4 to 5 p.m., Avon Branch – Enjoy a reading of “The Story of Ferdinand the Bull” with a live string ensemble performance from Lakewood Suzuki Strings. After the musical story time, stay for an “instrument petting zoo” to see how real stringed instruments feel and sound. Preregistration required.

Writers Groups: Saturdays, Sept. 21; Oct. 19; Nov. 16; 4 p.m., Columbia Branch • Wednesdays, Sept. 25; Oct. 30; Nov. 27; 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Domonkas Branch – Join us in this pressure‑free and friendly writing group and engage in peer critiques to find support for whatever project you are working on. Preregistration required.

Celebrating the History and Influence of Latinos in Lorain: Sunday, Sept. 22; 3 to 4 p.m., North Ridgeville Branch – Join the Lorain Historical Society for an engaging presentation celebrating 100 years of Latino history in Lorain and will explore the process of creating the Latino Lorain History Exhibit. Preregistration required.

Revelations Art Show: September 23 ‑ October 18, South Lorain Branch – A display showcasing the talent and creativity of emerging student artists under the guidance of multidisciplinary visual artist Camara Goodrich and local teacher Whitney Brown.

Luchador Mask Making: Monday, Sept. 23 to Saturday, Sept. 28, Domonkas Branch – Celebrate the rich history of Hispanic Heritage Month and Lucha Libre by creating your own paper luchador mask! Learn why luchador masks are important and who are famous luchadors and luchadoras!

Game Time: Monday, Sept. 23; 5 to 7 p.m., Avon Branch – Get your game on! Drop in with friends and family to play some board games, chess and a mix of current and classic video games.

Author Event: Marc Bona: Monday, Sept. 23; 6 to 7 p.m., Avon Branch – Come hear local author Marc Bona as he discusses his book “Hidden History of Cleveland Sports.” He’ll go beyond The Fumble, The Shot and The Drive to highlight the often forgotten individuals, teams and moments that deserve attention. Preregistration required.

Rock ‘n’ Roll History: A Journey in Sounds: Monday, Sept. 23; 6 to 7 p.m. North Ridgeville Branch • Thursday, Sept. 26; 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Columbia Branch – Explore the development of rock ‘n’ roll from 1949 to 1964 while listening to some of the earliest Top 10 hits and one‑hit wonders that ruled the airwaves. Preregistration required.

Trivia and Mocktails: Mondays, Sept. 23; Oct. 28; Nov. 25; 6:30 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Teams will compete in a friendly trivia competition while enjoying refreshments. Preregistration required.

Maker Moments: Paper Wreath: Tuesday, Sept. 24; 1 to 2 p.m., Camden Recycling Building – Learn how to make a seasonal wreath using materials cut from the Cricut. Preregistration required.

Friends of the Lorain Public Library, Inc. Meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 24; 5 p.m., Main Library – Join a fun group of other library enthusiasts who host book sales and volunteer at various programs in support of our beloved branch.

Not Just D&D: The World of TTRPGs: Tuesday, Sept. 24; 6 to 7:30 p.m., Avon Branch – Intimidated by the complexities of Dungeons & Dragons? Come play an easy and fun tabletop roleplaying game you can learn in just minutes! Preregistration required.

To Ban a Book: The History of Book Banning: Tuesday, Sept. 24; 6 to 7:30 p.m., Domonkas Branch – Why are books challenged? Why is literature considered such a threat? Join us as we explore the complex history of the written word. Preregistration required.

Friends of the Domonkas Library Book Sale: Wednesday, Sept. 25; Noon to 7:30 p.m. • Thursday, Sept. 26; 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. • Friday, Sept. 27; 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. • Saturday, Sept. 28; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Domonkas Branch – The book sale is open to the public and sponsored by the Friends of the Domonkas Library. The member preview from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 is open to Friends members only. New members may join and former members may renew their membership.

Interactive Film Club: “Real Women Have Curves”: Wednesdays, Sept. 25; Oct. 2; 6:30 p.m., South Lorain Branch – In this two part series, we will show the film “Real Women Have Curves”, and the following week there will be an interactive film club hosted by The Great Lakes Theater. A professional actor will lead a discussion and facilitate acting‑out scenes from the movie. Preregistration required.

In the News and In the Know: Wednesday, Sept. 25; 6:30 p.m., Columbia Branch – Misinformation is everyone’s business. Get media wise and sharpen your skills with resources and tools on topics like online safety, credible news and more. Preregistration required. Preregistration required.

Crafternoon: Rock Painting: Thursday, Sept. 26; 3 to 4 p.m., Main Library – Join us every other week for instruction on a new crafting skill. Dress for a mess!

Brassica Basics: Thursday, Sept. 26; 4 to 6 p.m., Domonkas Branch – A demonstration of brassica vegetables, from Brussel sprouts to kale. Learn how to unlock their flavors and health benefits. Preregistration required.

Family STEM Night: Science of Sound: Thursdays, Sept. 26; 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Main Library – Families will explore different science, technology, engineering and math topics with hands‑on activities. For kindergarten to eighth grade. Preregistration required.

The Night Before the Wild Robot: Thursday, Sept. 26; 5:30 to 7 p.m., Avon Branch – Wild Robot fans can drop in for a wild time with robot activities, challenges and games. Dare to come dressed in a DIY robot costume? Preregistration required.

Family STEM Night: Wild Robot: Thursdays, Sept. 26; 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Avon Branch – Families will explore different science, technology, engineering and math topics with hands‑on activities. For kindergarten to eighth grade. Preregistration required.

Music Therapy and More: Thursdays, Sept. 26; Oct. 24; Nov. 21; 6:30 to 7 p.m., North Ridgeville Branch – Led by a board‑certified music therapist, this program is for families with children ages 6 and younger who are struggling in an area of development. Learn how to use music to improve academic, motor, communication and social skills as well as behavior. To register go to connectingforkids.org/music.

Cult Classics Film Series: Thursdays, Sept. 26; 6:45 to 7:45 p.m., Main Library, Zoom – You can access the films for free using the streaming service Kanopy in our eLibrary, or on DVD or Blu‑ray. Film choices are subject to change based on the availability. “The General” by Clyde Bruckman and Buster Keaton, USA | 1926After being rejected by the Confederate military, an engineer must single‑handedly recapture his beloved locomotive after it is seized by Union spies and return it through enemy lines. Preregistration required. Hybrid

Story Time in the Woods: Fridays, Sept. 27; Oct. 11, 25; 10:30 to 11 a.m., Every Child’s Playground; 36265 Detroit Road – Music, movement activities and play will accompany nature‑themed stories. Dress for the weather and bring a blanket. Weather permitting.

Revelations Art Show Reception: Friday, Sept. 27; 3 to 5 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Meet the artists, mingle with fellow art enthusiasts and enjoy refreshments. Three esteemed judges will evaluate the artwork and award prizes to the standout pieces. Preregistration required.

Yarn Club: Fridays, Sept. 27; Oct. 11, 25; Nov. 8, 22; 4 to 5 p.m., Domonkas Branch – For those who are new or long‑time crocheters and knitters join our group as we grow and learn in this exciting hobby! Preregistration required.

Dazzling Diamond Anniversary Celebration! Saturday, Sept. 28; 1 to 4 p.m., Domonkas Branch – The Domonkas Branch is celebrating its 60th anniversary! Join us for an open house celebration with a brief history of the library, tasty treats, games and a drop‑in craft. Preregistration required.

A History of the Domonkas Library: Saturday, Sept. 28; 2 to 3 p.m., Domonkas Branch – Branch Manager John Guscott presents the history of the Domonkas Branch over the last six decades and discusses the current state of the library. Preregistration required.

Family Fun: Let’s Make Salsa: Saturday, Sept. 28; 2 to 3 p.m., North Ridgeville Branch – Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by making two different salsa recipes. Preregistration required.

History of Salsa: Saturday, Sept. 28; 2 to 3 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Learn of salsa’s development from its roots in Africa through Cuba, New York, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Colombia, Japan and other locations. Come full circle back to Senegal, the salsa capital of Africa. Acknowledge the common bond shared by Latinos and African Americans. Preregistration required.

Kids in the Kitchen with Chef Jorge: Saturday, Sept. 28; 2 to 3 p.m., Avon Branch – Kids, bring your families and learn fun recipes you can all make together. Presented by Chef Jorge from the Avon Local Schools. Preregistration required.

Mid‑Autumn Festival: Saturday, Sept. 28; 2 to 4 p.m., Main Library – Celebrate the Chinese harvest with this festival dedicated to the full moon. Learn more about the festival, make crafts and enjoy mooncakes. Preregistration required.

Wild Robot Party: Saturday, Sept. 28; 2 to 3 p.m., Columbia Branch – Celebrate the movie release of Peter Brown’s “The Wild Robot” with crafts and activities inspired by the book. For ages 6 to 11. Preregistration required.

Spice Club Kits: Mondays, Sept. 30; Oct. 28; Nov. 25; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Columbia Branch – Infuse excitement and flavor into every meal with our spice kits! Drop in during regular hours for a take‑home kit that includes a small amount of a featured spice, a brief history and recommended recipes. While supplies last.

College Knowledge: Basics for the College Bound: Monday, Sept. 30; 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Avon Branch – Local college planning consultant Alyson Campbell will walk parents and students through all they need to know to prepare for applying to college including timelines, best practices and keys to making informed decisions for your student and family. Ideal for grades 8 to 12. Preregistration required.

Latino Lorain History Exhibit: Oct. 1 to Oct. 29, Avon Branch – Drop in during regular business hours to view an exhibit celebrating 100 years of Latino history in Lorain. This exhibit was co‑created by El Centro, the Lorain Historical Society and Oberlin College.

Winter Squash: Tuesday, Oct. 1; 5 to 7 p.m., Columbia Branch – A demonstration and tasting of these in‑season veggies. Discover their flavor and health benefits along with tips and recipes. Preregistration required.

Anime Night: Tuesdays, Oct. 1; Nov. 5; 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Avon Branch – Join fellow fans for an evening of anime, manga and light refreshments. For ages 12 and up. Preregistration required.

Basic Music Production: Tuesday, Oct. 1; 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., South Lorain Branch – Learn the basics of sampling, looping and beat‑making to produce your own piece of music. For ages 10 and up. Preregistration required.

Patrons can register for programs at LorainPublicLibrary.org/programs. Programs listed as “hybrid” can be attended in person or virtually. Preregistration is required for both options.

Lorain Public Library System Branches: Main Library 351 W. Sixth St. Lorain, OH 44052, 440-244-1192 • Avon Branch 37485 Harvest Dr. Avon, OH 44011, 440-934-4743 • Columbia Branch 13824 W. River Rd. North Columbia Station, OH 44028, 440-236-8751 • Domonkas Branch 4125 E. Lake Rd. Sheffield Lake, OH 44054, 440-949-7410 • North Ridgeville Branch 35700 Bainbridge Rd. North Ridgeville OH 44039, 440-327-8326 • South Lorain Branch 2121 Homewood Dr. Lorain, OH 44055, 440-277-5672 • Little Library on the Lake, on the beach at Lakeview Park in Lorain, OH