Library News

This Program is For the Birds Home décor stores are guaranteed to stock bird-themed items, and on August 27 at 6:00 p.m., you’ll have a chance to make your own.  Create adorable avian friends out of cardboard or yarn—or both—and then sprinkle them throughout your house, make them a comfortable perch, or let them fly on a mobile.  Registration is required, ages 15 and up.

Fearless Flyers

Do you have what it takes to create the furthest flying paper airplane out there? Then Fearless Flyers is for you! Pilots will gather at the library on Monday, August 5 at 6:00 p.m. Fold, practice throw, adjust fold, practice some more until the real competition begins. Be the one to throw the furthest and win yourself a remote controlled airplane. This program is open to patrons of all ages; make sure to call the library at 517-647-6981 to register!

Fresh Food Bonanza

Welcome to the Fresh Food Bonanza! Starting Monday, July 15, patrons can stop by the library’s Youth Desk to pick up a welcome packet and start their cooking adventures. Pick from the many herbs and veggies in our garden, include them in your yummy culinary adventures at home, and send us a picture to be entered to win prizes all summer long. We can’t wait to see what kinds of tasty plates our patrons will create!

Children’s and Teen

Lantern Quest

Embark on a journey to light up your world during Lantern Quest.  You'll craft your very own lantern using string, a balloon and glue and will end up with a glowing creation that will brighten your room, garden or secret hideout in style!  Pick up your Take-and-Make bag beginning Friday, August 9 at the Youth Desk. This program is recommended for ages 6-12, requires parental supervision, and is limited to 35 patrons.

Constellation Exploration

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered what the Big Dipper and other constellations look like?  In Virtual STEM Club: Constellation Exploration we will use a flashlight and constellation templates to learn what some of the groups of stars look like and where to find them in the night sky. Registration for Take-and-Make bags begins Wednesday, August 21. This program is recommended for ages 6-12, requires parental supervision, and is limited to 35 patrons.

Books & Blankets August

Ahoy, mateys! Let your imagination soar as we set sail from the Children’s Sensory Garden during a Books & Blankets only fit for the most daring pirates! Our voyage begins on Thursday, August 22 at 6:00 p.m. at the Portland District Library. Secure a spot on the ship’s deck with a comfy blanket, enjoy a sweet treat, and don’t leave without a special treasure from our friends at the Ionia County Great Start Collaborative. This program is recommended for families with children ages 8 & under. Registration is required!

Teen Art Hour: Sand and Sun

We are excited to partner with Loafing Goat Bakery on our in-person cookie decorating class for August's Teen Art Hour, “Sand and Sun." Teens will learn the art of decorating adorable beach themed cookies with royal icing. Join us in the Community Room from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm on Thursday, August 8. Registration begins Saturday, June 1 and is limited to 10 teens, ages 13-18. Run, don't walk, to the Youth Desk as this program is sure to fill up quickly!