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Book World Scavenger Hunt

All Day 7/5 - 7/28
Children's Department at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child

Visit the Children's Desk to request a Book World Scavenger Hunt Sheet.
Then compete the following:

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Department
Age Group: Child
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

Visit the Children's Desk to request a Book World Scavenger Hunt Sheet.
Then compete the following:

Bookworms

Monday, July 21, 2025 at 9:30am - 11:00am
Children's Program Rm 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child

Wiggle your way through some book-themed activities before spending time reading (or listening to your adult read to you) as you work your way toward completing your reading goals for the summer.

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 2
Age Group: Child
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

Wiggle your way through some book-themed activities before spending time reading (or listening to your adult read to you) as you work your way toward completing your reading goals for the summer.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

English Language Conversation Group

Monday, July 21, 2025 at 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Community Rm 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Adult, Teens

The English Language Conversations Group, offered in partnership with STAR Adult Literacy, is designed for adults for whom English is a second language.

Cancelled
Full
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 2
Age Group: Adult, Teens
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

The English Language Conversations Group, offered in partnership with STAR Adult Literacy, is designed for adults for whom English is a second language.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Summer Reading Story Time

Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 10:00am - 10:45am
Community Rm 1 & 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
Story Time, In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child, Baby & Toddler

Children of all ages are welcome to join us for stories, songs, and fun during our Summer Reading Story Time!

Questions about this program can be emailed to jessew@bloomingtonlibrary.org.

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 1 & 2
Age Group: Child, Baby & Toddler
Program Type: Story Time, In-Person Program
:

Children of all ages are welcome to join us for stories, songs, and fun during our Summer Reading Story Time!

Questions about this program can be emailed to jessew@bloomingtonlibrary.org.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Reality Fair for Teens

Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Community Rm 2 & 3 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Teens

Join representatives from the Illinois State Credit Union for a life-size game of LIFE.

Waitlist
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 2 & 3
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

Join representatives from the Illinois State Credit Union for a life-size game of LIFE.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Family Art Night

Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Children's Program Rm 1 & 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child

Join us at the library for a relaxing evening of art making and creativity with your family! There will be a variety of art supplies available to create your family's masterpiece.

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 1 & 2
Age Group: Child
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

Join us at the library for a relaxing evening of art making and creativity with your family! There will be a variety of art supplies available to create your family's masterpiece.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Teen Writing Workshop

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 12:00pm - 1:00pm
TeenZone at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Teens

This writing workshop is for teens in Grades 6-12 and is perfect for creative writers! Drop by the TeenZone for writing tips and tricks and to talk about the art of prose.

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: TeenZone
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

This writing workshop is for teens in Grades 6-12 and is perfect for creative writers! Drop by the TeenZone for writing tips and tricks and to talk about the art of prose.

Storm Science!

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Community Rm 1, 2, & 3 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child, Adult, Teens, Everyone

Explore the fundamentals of extreme weather! 

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 1, 2, & 3
Age Group: Child, Adult, Teens, Everyone
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

Explore the fundamentals of extreme weather! 

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Tales for Tails

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Children's Program Rm 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child

This program pairs trained and certified therapy dogs with children in Grades K-5 who want to practice reading aloud.

There will be 4 time slots available for kids to meet and read to a pup in the Children's Department:

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 2
Age Group: Child
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

This program pairs trained and certified therapy dogs with children in Grades K-5 who want to practice reading aloud.

There will be 4 time slots available for kids to meet and read to a pup in the Children's Department:

Concert on the Patio: Davenport, Dish, Mish & Kerry Myers

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Patio at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child, Baby & Toddler, Adult, Teens, Everyone

After a multi-year hiatus, the library’s beloved outdoor concert series is returning, once again bringing to the community free live music from talented local musicians and bands.

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Patio
Age Group: Child, Baby & Toddler, Adult, Teens, Everyone
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

After a multi-year hiatus, the library’s beloved outdoor concert series is returning, once again bringing to the community free live music from talented local musicians and bands.

Book Brunch Club

Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 10:00am - 11:00am
Conference Room & Online at Bloomington Public Library & Online
Program Type:
Book Club, In-Person Program, Online Program
Age Group:
Adult

Start your day right with Book Brunch Club, a cozy book club where you bring your coffee and snacks, we provide the books, and together we dive into lively discussions!

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library & Online
Room: Conference Room & Online
Age Group: Adult
Program Type: Book Club, In-Person Program, Online Program
Registration Required
:

Start your day right with Book Brunch Club, a cozy book club where you bring your coffee and snacks, we provide the books, and together we dive into lively discussions!

Sensory Story Time

Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 10:00am - 11:00am
Children's Program Rm 1 & 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
Story Time, In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child, Baby & Toddler

This inclusive story time offers stories, songs, and sensory-focused activities for children of all ages and abilities! After story time, stay for sensory play and socialization.

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 1 & 2
Age Group: Child, Baby & Toddler
Program Type: Story Time, In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

This inclusive story time offers stories, songs, and sensory-focused activities for children of all ages and abilities! After story time, stay for sensory play and socialization.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Tales for Tails

Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Children's Program Rm 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child

This program pairs trained and certified therapy dogs with children in Grades K-5 who want to practice reading aloud.

There will be 4 time slots available for kids to meet and read to a pup in the Children's Department:

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 2
Age Group: Child
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

This program pairs trained and certified therapy dogs with children in Grades K-5 who want to practice reading aloud.

There will be 4 time slots available for kids to meet and read to a pup in the Children's Department:

How to Run D&D for Your Kids

Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Children's Program Rm 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Adult

If you are interested in running a Dungeons and Dragons game for your kids but aren't sure where to start -- we can help!

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 2
Age Group: Adult
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

If you are interested in running a Dungeons and Dragons game for your kids but aren't sure where to start -- we can help!

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Fun & Games: Family Game Day

Sunday, July 27, 2025 at 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Children's Program Rm 1 & 2 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child

Join us in the Children's Department for classic board games, card games, and puzzles. Game masters from Red Raccoon Games will join us on site to demonstrate how to play a variety of hand-picked games, all appropriate for your family gaming

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 1 & 2
Age Group: Child
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

Join us in the Children's Department for classic board games, card games, and puzzles. Game masters from Red Raccoon Games will join us on site to demonstrate how to play a variety of hand-picked games, all appropriate for your family gaming

Digital Vision Boards for Success

Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Community Rm 3 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Teens

Are you a teen who's interested in creating a digital vision board?

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 3
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

Are you a teen who's interested in creating a digital vision board?

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Stream It Like You Mean It with OBS

Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Computer Lab at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program, Online Program
Age Group:
Adult, Teens

If you're a teen or an adult who wants to start streaming like a pro, plan to join us for an engaging, hands-on introduction to Open Broadcaster Software (OBS), the powerful and free tool used by streamers around the world!

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Computer Lab
Age Group: Adult, Teens
Program Type: In-Person Program, Online Program
Registration Required
:

If you're a teen or an adult who wants to start streaming like a pro, plan to join us for an engaging, hands-on introduction to Open Broadcaster Software (OBS), the powerful and free tool used by streamers around the world!

Concert on the Patio: Kevin & Cassie Hart and Friends

Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Patio at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child, Baby & Toddler, Adult, Teens, Everyone

After a multi-year hiatus, the library’s beloved outdoor concert series is returning, once again bringing to the community free live music from talented local musicians and bands.

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Patio
Age Group: Child, Baby & Toddler, Adult, Teens, Everyone
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

After a multi-year hiatus, the library’s beloved outdoor concert series is returning, once again bringing to the community free live music from talented local musicians and bands.

Time Capsule Celebration

Friday, August 1, 2025 at 2:00pm - 3:15pm
Children's Program Rm 1 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child, Baby & Toddler, Adult, Teens, Everyone

What will people in the future think of the year 2025? 
You'll have to wait 25 year to find out! That's when Bloomington Public Library's 2025 Time Capsule will next be opened. 

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Children's Program Rm 1
Age Group: Child, Baby & Toddler, Adult, Teens, Everyone
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

What will people in the future think of the year 2025? 
You'll have to wait 25 year to find out! That's when Bloomington Public Library's 2025 Time Capsule will next be opened. 

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Teen Comic-Con: End of Summer Party

Friday, August 1, 2025 at 5:30pm - 8:00pm
Community Rm 1, 2, & 3 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Teens

Because Bloomington-Normal's teens collectively read for 5,000 hours this summer, they have earned a Teens-only, after-hours, end-of-summer party.

This year's party will be Comic-Con inspired!

There will be:

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 1, 2, & 3
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: In-Person Program
:

Because Bloomington-Normal's teens collectively read for 5,000 hours this summer, they have earned a Teens-only, after-hours, end-of-summer party.

This year's party will be Comic-Con inspired!

There will be:

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Paws and Pages

Monday, August 4, 2025 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Offsite Event at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Child

This program, which takes place at the Humane Society of Central Illinois in Normal, pairs children in grades K-5 with shelter animals to practice reading aloud.

Upcoming
Registration Required
Offsite Event
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Offsite Event
Age Group: Child
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

This program, which takes place at the Humane Society of Central Illinois in Normal, pairs children in grades K-5 with shelter animals to practice reading aloud.

Teen Craftivism

Monday, August 4, 2025 at 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Community Rm 3 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
In-Person Program
Age Group:
Teens

Teen Craftivism will meet monthly in June, July, and August. During Craftivism, teens will learn a new craft and the history behind it, focusing on both historical and modern uses of arts and crafts.

Register
Registration Required
Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 3
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: In-Person Program
Registration Required
:

Teen Craftivism will meet monthly in June, July, and August. During Craftivism, teens will learn a new craft and the history behind it, focusing on both historical and modern uses of arts and crafts.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Reasonable Doubt: An Evening with Steve Vogel

Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Community Rm 1, 2, & 3 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
Book Club, In-Person Program
Age Group:
Adult

The History Reads Book Club and True Crime Book Club are pleased to host an evening discussion with Steve Vogel -- author of Reasonable Doubt: A Shocking Story or Lust and Murder in the American Heartland. 

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 1, 2, & 3
Age Group: Adult
Program Type: Book Club, In-Person Program
:

The History Reads Book Club and True Crime Book Club are pleased to host an evening discussion with Steve Vogel -- author of Reasonable Doubt: A Shocking Story or Lust and Murder in the American Heartland. 

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.

Midweek Movie Club

Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Community Rm 3 at Bloomington Public Library
Program Type:
Movie, In-Person Program
Age Group:
Adult

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the library while watching a film on our big screen. It's a great way to unwind and enjoy a variety of movies in a comfortable setting. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Library Branch: Bloomington Public Library
Room: Community Rm 3
Age Group: Adult
Program Type: Movie, In-Person Program
:

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the library while watching a film on our big screen. It's a great way to unwind and enjoy a variety of movies in a comfortable setting. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Disclaimer(s)

Hearing Device Assistance

To accommodate hard-of-hearing patrons, the library offers the use of assistive listening devices in each Community Room and in each Children’s Program Room. For these devices to work, the presenter must use the room’s sound system. For the clearest sound, make sure the device is unobstructed by clothing or jewelry and sit in the first few rows.
If you experience connectivity issues, please let a staff member know. A guide on using the assistive listening devices is available.