PROGRAMS
UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Programs inside the library branches have been curtailed to help minimize the impact of the coronavirus, so we're sending programs to you—virtually. Check out the Library's Virtual Programs page for details. This fall, the library is hosting both in-person and virtual programs.
Masks will be required at all in-person events.
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite J.R. Martin Park, 300 E. Hines Street, Republic
10 a.m. for infants-age 6
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet at The Amp, we'll move to the pavilion in case of rain. Provided in partnership with the Republic Parks and Rec Department. - Stories in the Park
Offsite Jackson Street Park, 222 W. Jackson St., Willard
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you!
Meet in the large pavilion. - Ash Grove Bibliophiles
Ash Grove community room
1:30 p.m. for adults
"The Martian Chronicles" by Ray Bradbury.
Wednesday, September 22, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite Ash Grove City Park, 300 W. Parkway St.
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you! - Stories in the Park
Offsite Living Memorial Park, 4323 S. Nature Center Way
6:30 p.m. for all ages
Fall is the perfect time for Stories in the Park! Wind down your evening with park play, stories, music, movement and a take-home activity. Sack suppers and snacks are welcome. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
Thursday, September 23, 2021
- Afternoon Book Discussion
The Library Station Santa Fe Room
1:30 p.m. for adults
"Better Luck Next Time" by Julia Claiborne Johnson. - An Introduction to Contract Bridge
The Library Center meeting room A
6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. for adults
Exercise your brain and have fun making new friends as you learn to play Contract Bridge. Whether you're a beginner or want to update your bidding and play, this class is for you. Members of the Bridge Center will give an introductory course over four consecutive Thursday evenings. Register once for the entire series. Registration starts August 26; call 417-883-5341. - Black History of Springfield
The Library Center auditorium
7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. for adults
The stories of Black lives are woven throughout the tapestry of Springfield's history. Join H. Wes Pratt, Missouri State University’s Chief Diversity Officer and Assistant to the President, as he highlights the rich and complex history of Springfield's Black community. Pratt will touch on slavery and emancipation, education, Route 66, Black-owned business, civil rights and the annual traditions and celebrations that have been born out of the Black experience in Springfield.
Friday, September 24, 2021
- Storytime at Doling Park
Offsite Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St.
10 a.m. for infants-age 6 with an adult caregiver
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians from the Library Station for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet in the large pavilion located behind the Family Center near the playground. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
Saturday, September 25, 2021
- Downtown Walk & Talks
Offsite Ward Downtown YMCA, 417 S. Jefferson Ave.
9 a.m. for adults
Exercise your body and your brain while experiencing downtown Springfield! Join the Library, the Ward Downtown YMCA and the History Museum on the Square on a walking tour of downtown while discussing a new topic each session. Each walk is limited to 20 participants. Meet at the Y entrance to begin the tour.
"The Civil War in Springfield". Registration starts September 11; call 417-831-1342. - Houseplants How-To
Midtown Carnegie upstairs meeting room
1 p.m. for adults
Learn how to harvest, propagate and display your houseplant cuttings.
How to Propagate. Hickory Lane Plants will discuss caring for plant cuttings and propagations, and guidelines to ethically harvest your own plant pups. - Harry Potter Wreath Making
The Library Station Santa Fe Room
2 p.m. for adults
Calling all witches and wizards! Create magical fall decor for your humble or not-so-humble abode. Materials will be provided. Registration is full for this event. Registration starts September 11; call 417-616-0683 or email laural@thelibrary.org.
Tuesday, September 28, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite J.R. Martin Park, 300 E. Hines Street, Republic
10 a.m. for infants-age 6
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet at The Amp, we'll move to the pavilion in case of rain. Provided in partnership with the Republic Parks and Rec Department. - Stories in the Park
Offsite Jackson Street Park, 222 W. Jackson St., Willard
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you!
Meet in the large pavilion.
Wednesday, September 29, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite Ash Grove City Park, 300 W. Parkway St.
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you!
Thursday, September 30, 2021
- SCORE E3 Business Book Club
Virtual
noon for adults
E3 stands for Empowering and Educating Entrepreneurs. Join Southwest Missouri SCORE and The Library for a book club to inspire and motivate your work life, whatever it looks like. Discussion happens all month at facebook.com/groups/scoree3bookclub, with a live virtual discussion via Zoom near the end of the month. Register for the live discussion by clicking below; a link to the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
"Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less" by Leidy Klotz. Registration starts August 26.
Go to program page - An Introduction to Contract Bridge
The Library Center meeting room A
6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. for adults
Exercise your brain and have fun making new friends as you learn to play Contract Bridge. Whether you're a beginner or want to update your bidding and play, this class is for you. Members of the Bridge Center will give an introductory course over four consecutive Thursday evenings. Register once for the entire series. Registration starts August 26; call 417-883-5341.
Friday, October 1, 2021
- Storytime at Doling Park
Offsite Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St.
10 a.m. for infants-age 6 with an adult caregiver
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians from the Library Station for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet in the large pavilion located behind the Family Center near the playground. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. - First Friday Art Walk
Park Central
6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. for adults
Join us for First Friday Art Walk, including an art talk and the opening of a new exhibit.
Naysa Adams, museum studies major with minors in African American studies and art at Missouri State University, will present: "Negritude vs. Black Opulence: Archibald Motley and Jacob Lawrence, Portraits of Black Life in the Early 20 th Century." On display: Photography by Steven Strauch.
Saturday, October 2, 2021
- Graphic Novel Book Discussion
The Library Station Santa Fe Room
10 a.m. for adults
Whether you are new to graphic novels or a longtime fan, join our graphic novel book discussion for a chance to chat with others and discover a new favorite!
"Mis(h)adra" by Iasmin Omar Ata. - Fix-It Fair
Midtown Carnegie upstairs meeting room
10 a.m.-2 p.m. for adults
Throw it away? No way! Give your household appliances, computers, bicycles or even clothes a new lease on life, and reduce waste while learning a valuable repair skill. Volunteer experts will help you repair your fixable items. Bikes OK; no over-sized, gas-powered items or safety hazards. For other guidelines call 417-862-0135. Presented with Community Partnership of the Ozarks. - FilmStubs
Virtual
2 p.m. for adults
Both novice and seasoned cinephiles are welcome to join our virtual discussion of the monthly cult-classic film selection. Films are available to watch for free with your library card on Hoopla at thelibrary.org/digital, or find a DVD copy at thelibrary.org/catalog. Register by clicking below; a link to the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
"Tucker & Dale vs. Evil," rated R. Registration starts September 18.
Go to program page
Monday, October 4, 2021
- Exploring Genealogy
Virtual
7 p.m. for adults
Click on the link below to access the virtual event on the OGS Facebook page, facebook.com/ozarksgs. Sponsored by Ozarks Genealogical Society.
Finding Family in City Directories. Your ancestors can be found in directories published for small towns and counties. OGS member Cheryl Braswell explains how city directories can provide rich details about our ancestors' lives and where to locate them .
Go to program page
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite J.R. Martin Park, 300 E. Hines Street, Republic
10 a.m. for infants-age 6
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet at The Amp, we'll move to the pavilion in case of rain. Provided in partnership with the Republic Parks and Rec Department. - Into the Darkness with Laura McHugh
The Library Center auditorium
7 p.m. for adults
Join internationally best-selling author Laura McHugh for a conversation about her riveting rural noir novel, "What's Done in Darkness," in which blood ties and buried secrets draw a young woman back into the dark heart of the Ozarks to save a missing girl. Books will be available for sale and signing.
Thursday, October 7, 2021
- Reading Pals
Republic community room
4:30 p.m. for grades K-5
Our friends from Pet Therapy of the Ozarks need your help – they love a good story but can't read. Practice your reading skills with these furry, loveable friends. - Mysteries, Lore and Murders: Mystifying Parts of an Ozarks Past
Offsite Springfield Art Museum, 1111 E. Brookside Drive
7 p.m. for adults
Whether it be mysteries left unsolved, fascinating folklore or mystifying murders, sometimes the unknown can be captivating. Ozarks Alive's Kaitlyn McConnell will explore some of the spooky stories and historical pieces of local culture that have stayed with the region for years. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. An "Oh, the Horror!" event.
Friday, October 8, 2021
- Storytime at Doling Park
Offsite Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St.
10 a.m. for infants-age 6 with an adult caregiver
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians from the Library Station for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet in the large pavilion located behind the Family Center near the playground. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
Saturday, October 9, 2021
- Writer's Workshop with Author Cullen Bunn
The Library Center auditorium
1 p.m. for grades 4-8
Are you an aspiring author? Do you have stories to tell in a comic book format? Join comic and horror author Cullen Bunn to learn tips on getting started, beating writer's block and how to storyboard a comic book. Registration starts September 20; call 417-616-0526. - Meet the Author: Cullen Bunn
The Library Center auditorium
2:30 p.m. for grade 4-adult
Celebrate the release of "The Ghoul Next Door," a new spooky middle grade graphic novel by Cullen Bunn, perfect for kids and kids at heart. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Registration starts September 20; call 417-616-0526. - Let's Explore Taxidermy with Stuffed Animals
The Library Station Frisco Room
4 p.m. for adults
We're celebrating the October 21 visit by humorist David Sedaris while we make a taxidermy-inspired craft and listen to one of his essays. He delves into taxidermy in his celebrated essay "Understanding Owls." Materials provided, seating is limited. Registration starts September 25; call 417-616-0683.
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite J.R. Martin Park, 300 E. Hines Street, Republic
10 a.m. for infants-age 6
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet at The Amp, we'll move to the pavilion in case of rain. Provided in partnership with the Republic Parks and Rec Department. - Flying Needles
Ash Grove
1:30 p.m. for adults
Bring your knitting and crochet projects and join other fiber artists on the second Tuesday of every month. Work on your current projects, share patterns and ideas, and check out our knitting and crochet resources. All levels of experience are welcome. - Mystery Book Club
Midtown Carnegie upstairs meeting room
1:30 p.m. for adults
Join us to discuss all manner of mystery from current to classic, cozy to thriller, series and standalone.
"Still Life" by Louise Penny.
Wednesday, October 13, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite Ash Grove City Park, 300 W. Parkway St.
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you! - Book Discussion
The Library Center meeting room B
1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. for adults
"We Have Always Lived in the Castle" by Shirley Jackson. - Stories in the Park
Offsite Living Memorial Park, 4323 S. Nature Center Way
6:30 p.m. for all ages
Fall is the perfect time for Stories in the Park! Wind down your evening with park play, stories, music, movement and a take-home activity. Sack suppers and snacks are welcome. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
Friday, October 15, 2021
- Storytime at Doling Park
Offsite Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St.
10 a.m. for infants-age 6 with an adult caregiver
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians from the Library Station for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet in the large pavilion located behind the Family Center near the playground. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. - Welcome to the Final Girl Support Group
Offsite The Gallery at the Gillioz, 325 Park Central East
7 p.m. for adults
Best-selling author Grady Hendrix ("My Best Friend's Exorcism," "The Final Girls Support Group") welcomes you to a very special support group, so have a seat, coffee's in the back and remember there's no cross-talk. Then prepare yourself for a guided tour of the history of murder books, from bizarro 19th century Jack the Ripper fan fiction, through "Psycho" to the industry-changing success of "Silence of the Lambs." Along the way you'll encounter astrological assassins and the female authors who wrote serial killer books first. Together, we’ll try to figure out what it means that so much of publishing is about selling murder and mayhem. Books will be available for sale and signing. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. An "Oh, the Horror!" event.
Saturday, October 16, 2021
- Donuts & Death Q&A with Grady Hendrix
Schweitzer Brentwood community room
10 a.m. for adults
A fast-paced and frightening homage to one of horror's most enduring tropes, "The Final Girl Support Group" has been called "a wickedly humorous thriller." Join author Grady Hendrix and the Donuts & Death Book Discussion crew for a Q&A full of nostalgia and pop culture straight out of the VHS era. Donuts will be provided; seating is limited. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. An "Oh, the Horror!" event. Registration starts October 1; call 417-883-1974. - Zoom Into Storytime
Virtual
10 a.m. for preschool-grade 2
Join us for some very special virtual storytimes via Zoom for kids in preschool-grade 2. These interactive events encourage singing, dancing and some show-and-tell to keep little ones fully engaged with the storytime provider and each other. Registration for these Zoom storytimes must be made by a parent or guardian by emailing and providing their library card number. A link and a password to access the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
All About Fall. Read and sing about the changing seasons with Library Center staffer Chris! Leaves, pumpkins, apples – what are your favorite things about fall?. Registrations accepted October 1-October 16; email imagine@thelibrary.org. - Harry Potter Yoga
Offsite Ward Downtown YMCA, 417 S. Jefferson Ave.
10:15 a.m. for grade 6-adults
Wands at the ready! Ignite your patronus with this playful, Potter-themed yoga series. In partnership with the Ward Downtown YMCA, yoga instructor Amanda Davis will lead this free three-session class to help you build your flexibility, strength and mindfulness. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and bring their own yoga mat. Register once for the series. Registration starts October 1; call 417-831-1342.
Tuesday, October 19, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite J.R. Martin Park, 300 E. Hines Street, Republic
10 a.m. for infants-age 6
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet at The Amp, we'll move to the pavilion in case of rain. Provided in partnership with the Republic Parks and Rec Department. - Stories in the Park
Offsite Jackson Street Park, 222 W. Jackson St., Willard
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you! - Ash Grove Bibliophiles
Ash Grove community room
1:30 p.m. for adults
"1984" by George Orwell. - Business Model Canvas and the Value Proposition for Strategic Planning
The Library Center meeting rooms A and B
7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. for adults
A strong business model is a roadmap for your venture. It provides the business case that you need when meeting with investors and other experts, contributes to your long-term success and helps you avoid costly mistakes for your business. Learn about the Lean Canvas approach to creating a business model, including how to describe your business, ideal customers, product attributes, marketing and value proposition. This quick method of attacking business development will save you time and help you focus on critical assumptions. Hosted by Southwest Missouri SCORE. Visit the link below or call to register. Registration starts September 28; call 417-883-1974.
Go to program page
Wednesday, October 20, 2021
- Exploring Genealogy
10 a.m. for adults
This event is offered in-person and virtually. Click on the link below to access the virtual event on the OGS Facebook page, facebook.com/ozarksgs. Sponsored by Ozarks Genealogical Society.- Library Center auditorium
How DNA Clusters Can Help Your Genealogical Research. Patricia B. Coleman, PhD, describes what DNA clustering is, elements of a cluster and the various types of cluster analyses and their uses. She will also share examples of using clusters and their applications to research. - Virtual
Go to program page
- Library Center auditorium
- Stories in the Park
Offsite Ash Grove City Park, 300 W. Parkway St.
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you! - Virtual Brown Bag Travelogue
Virtual
noon for adults
Sit back, relax and explore a new place from the comfort of your own home. A new video featuring a different adventure will be posted to the Library's YouTube channel, youtube.com/SpringfieldGreene, on the third Wednesday of each month.
Cycling in Oxford. Substitute Library Assistant Tod Jackson spent two weeks on a cycling holiday in Oxfordshire, England, exploring Oxford, the surrounding countryside, local culture and world famous attractions such as the Bodleian Library and Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology.
Friday, October 22, 2021
- Storytime at Doling Park
Offsite Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St.
10 a.m. for infants-age 6 with an adult caregiver
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians from the Library Station for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet in the large pavilion located behind the Family Center near the playground. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
Saturday, October 23, 2021
- Harry Potter Yoga
Offsite Ward Downtown YMCA, 417 S. Jefferson Ave.
10:15 a.m. for grade 6-adults
Wands at the ready! Ignite your patronus with this playful, Potter-themed yoga series. In partnership with the Ward Downtown YMCA, yoga instructor Amanda Davis will lead this free three-session class to help you build your flexibility, strength and mindfulness. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and bring their own yoga mat. Register once for the series. Registration starts October 1; call 417-831-1342. - Houseplants How-To
Midtown Carnegie upstairs meeting room
1 p.m. for adults
Learn how to harvest, propagate and display your houseplant cuttings.
Plant Swap. Grow your indoor jungle! Bring one or more of your own houseplants, succulent or cactus plants or cuttings to swap with your neighbors. Remember to bring small containers or jars to carry your new plant pups home.
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite J.R. Martin Park, 300 E. Hines Street, Republic
10 a.m. for infants-age 6
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet at The Amp, we'll move to the pavilion in case of rain. Provided in partnership with the Republic Parks and Rec Department. - Stories in the Park
Offsite Jackson Street Park, 222 W. Jackson St., Willard
10:30 a.m. for all ages
Join your favorite librarians for a storytime near you! - Chainsaw Hearts: Chatting with Stephen Graham Jones
The Library Center auditorium
7 p.m. for adults
New York Times best-selling author Stephen Graham Jones' "My Heart Is a Chainsaw" is both an ode to slasher flicks and a harrowing coming-of-age story about revenge and redemption. Jones will discuss his love for the horror genre, the way history haunts the present and how horrors can forge a heart as powerful as a chainsaw. Books will be available for sale and signing. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. An "Oh, the Horror!" event. - Grow Your Business Through Google Tools
The Library Center meeting rooms A and B
7 p.m. for adults
Join Library staffer Krissy Sinor as we explore the free Google resources available for small businesses and start-ups. Tools like Google Workspace and Google My Business can help business owners make the most of their own time and resources. Hosted by Southwest Missouri SCORE. Visit the link below or call to register. Registration starts October 5; call 417-883-1974.
Go to program page
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
- Stories in the Park
Offsite Living Memorial Park, 4323 S. Nature Center Way
6:30 p.m. for all ages
Fall is the perfect time for Stories in the Park! Wind down your evening with park play, stories, music, movement and a take-home activity. Sack suppers and snacks are welcome. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.
Thursday, October 28, 2021
- SCORE E3 Business Book Club
Virtual
noon for adults
E3 stands for Empowering and Educating Entrepreneurs. Join Southwest Missouri SCORE and The Library for a book club to inspire and motivate your work life, whatever it looks like. Discussion happens all month at facebook.com/groups/scoree3bookclub, with a live virtual discussion via Zoom near the end of the month. Register for the live discussion by clicking below; a link to the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
"Why Startups Fail: A New Roadmap for Entrepreneurial Success" by Tom Eisenmann. Registration starts September 30.
Go to program page - Afternoon Book Discussion
The Library Station Santa Fe Room
1:30 p.m. for adults
"The Ghost Variations" by Kevin Brockmeier.
Friday, October 29, 2021
- Storytime at Doling Park
Offsite Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St.
10 a.m. for infants-age 6 with an adult caregiver
Gather ‘round for a storytime in the park! Join your favorite children’s librarians from the Library Station for a weekly, outdoor storytime featuring stories, songs and activities. Meet in the large pavilion located behind the Family Center near the playground. Provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. - "Scream" at The Moxie
Offsite Moxie Cinema, 305 S. Campbell Ave. #101
8 p.m. for adults
A subversive sendup to the slasher subgenre, Wes Craven's "Scream" was credited with revitalizing the horror genre in the 1990s and spawned a series of sequels that follow final girl Sidney Prescott. Experience the terrifying classic on the big screen during this special free presentation. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. An "Oh, the Horror!" event.
Saturday, October 30, 2021
- Zoom Into Storytime
Virtual
10 a.m. for preschool-grade 2
Join us for some very special virtual storytimes via Zoom for kids in preschool-grade 2. These interactive events encourage singing, dancing and some show-and-tell to keep little ones fully engaged with the storytime provider and each other. Registration for these Zoom storytimes must be made by a parent or guardian by emailing and providing their library card number. A link and a password to access the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
Halloween Costume Party! Show off your costumes, do the Monster Mash and read a spooky story. Parents and guardians will have a chance to turn on their cameras for kids to share their costumes. Registrations accepted October 15-October 30; email imagine@thelibrary.org. - Harry Potter Yoga
Offsite Ward Downtown YMCA, 417 S. Jefferson Ave.
10:15 a.m. for grade 6-adults
Wands at the ready! Ignite your patronus with this playful, Potter-themed yoga series. In partnership with the Ward Downtown YMCA, yoga instructor Amanda Davis will lead this free three-session class to help you build your flexibility, strength and mindfulness. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and bring their own yoga mat. Register once for the series. Registration starts October 1; call 417-831-1342.
Monday, November 1, 2021
- A Buddhist Path Through Grief and Loss
6 p.m. for adults
Buddhists have applied the Buddha's teachings to their encounters of dying and death for millennia, charting many compassionate and wise paths through the experiences of grief and loss. David Ketchum and members of the Dinh Quang Buddhist Temple will introduce some of the Buddha's teachings, share stories of how Buddhist practices have aided their own journeys, and demonstrate a traditional Vietnamese service for honoring loved ones who have passed away. Q&A will follow the presentation. This event is offered in-person and virtually; registration is required to attend virtually. Register at the link below; a link to the event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual
Registration starts October 18.
Go to program page
- Exploring Genealogy
Virtual
7 p.m. for adults
Click on the link below to access the virtual event on the OGS Facebook page, facebook.com/ozarksgs. Sponsored by Ozarks Genealogical Society.
Preserving Your Ancestor's Textiles and Handmade Treasures. Heirloom textiles and handmade items need special care and consideration when it comes to preservation and storage. Melissa Barker, Houston County, Tennessee, archivist, shares the best practices for preserving your ancestor's textiles and handmade items .
Go to program page
Wednesday, November 3, 2021
- On Angels' Wings
6 p.m. for adults
Giving birth can be such a joyous occasion but nothing can prepare us for the death of a child. Michelle Cramer, founder and president of On Angels’ Wings, will discuss what her organization can offer to grieving families, and how we can help provide the support they need. Michelle will share stories from families she has worked with as well as her own experiences with bereavement and grief recovery. This event is offered in-person and virtually; registration is required to attend virtually. Register at the link below; a link to the event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual
Registration starts October 20.
Go to program page
Thursday, November 4, 2021
- Reading Pals
Republic community room
4:30 p.m. for grades K-5
Our friends from Pet Therapy of the Ozarks need your help – they love a good story but can't read. Practice your reading skills with these furry, loveable friends. - Ask a Mortician: Live with Caitlin Doughty
6 p.m. for adults
Our favorite death acceptance advocate, best-selling author Caitlin Doughty ("Smoke Gets in Your Eyes," "From Here to Eternity," "Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?"), returns to Springfield for a live session of her immensely popular YouTube series, "Ask a Mortician." Take your death education to a new level during this opportunity to ask Caitlin anything you want to know about death and dying. All questions must be submitted in advance for this facilitated Q&A. A link to submit your questions will be provided with your registration confirmation. Deadline to submit questions is October 25. Books will be available for purchase and signing. This event will be offered virtually and in person, with masking required and limited seating; registration is required for either option by clicking below. A link to the virtual event will be shared with registered participants. Doors will open at 5 p.m. for the seated event at Relics; your confirmation is your ticket to the event. Please print it and bring it with you or show the confirmation on your EventBrite app. A Death & Dying event.- Virtual
Registration starts October 4.
Go to program page - Relics Event Center, 2015 W. Battlefield Road, Suite E
Registration starts October 4.
Go to program page
- Virtual
Friday, November 5, 2021
- First Friday Art Walk
Park Central
6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. for adults
Join us for First Friday Art Walk, including an art talk and the opening of a new exhibit.
Whitney Mosley, a Missouri State University graduate with an undergraduate certificate in museum studies and degree in art history with a museum studies minor, presents "Portrayals of Power: An Examination of Isabella d'Este's Portraiture." On display: Paintings by Nancy Dornan.
Saturday, November 6, 2021
- Graphic Novel Book Discussion
The Library Station Santa Fe Room
10 a.m. for adults
Whether you are new to graphic novels or a longtime fan, join our graphic novel book discussion for a chance to chat with others and discover a new favorite!
"Lighter Than My Shadow" by Katie Green. - FilmStubs
Virtual
2 p.m. for adults
Both novice and seasoned cinephiles are welcome to join our virtual discussion of the monthly cult-classic film selection. Films are available to watch for free with your library card on Hoopla at thelibrary.org/digital, or find a DVD copy at thelibrary.org/catalog. Register by clicking below; a link to the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
"Rubber," rated R. Registration starts October 23.
Go to program page - Tombstone Bootcamp
2 p.m. for adults
You can gather a lot of knowledge from viewing tombstones in a cemetery, but that information isn’t always clear. Cemetery expert and author Abby Burnett will share tips for extracting data from grave markers including dealing with archaic language and misleading symbolism, using light (and other non-invasive methods) to read an inscription, and proper cleaning techniques. This event is offered in-person and virtually; registration is required to attend virtually. Register at the link below; a link to the event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual
Registration starts October 23.
Go to program page
- Gone to the Grave
3 p.m. for adults
Historian Abby Burnett, author of "Gone to the Grave: Burial Customs of the Arkansas Ozarks, 1850-1950," will share stories about burial rituals and funeral customs in the Ozarks before the advent of the professional death-care industry. Books will be available for purchase and signing. This event is offered in-person and virtually; registration is required to attend virtually. Register at the link below; a link to the event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual
Registration starts October 23.
Go to program page
Sunday, November 7, 2021
- Hazelwood Cemetery Tour
Offsite Hazelwood Cemetery, 1642 E. Seminole St
2 p.m. for adults
Enjoy an afternoon stroll through one of Springfield’s oldest and most beautiful burial grounds, Hazelwood Cemetery, while learning about its history, landmarks, tombstone symbolism and the notable and notorious men and women who rest there. Meet inside the entrance on Seminole Street. Limited to 20 participants. A Death & Dying event. Registration starts October 24; email sarahr@thelibrary.org.
Tuesday, November 9, 2021
- Flying Needles
Ash Grove
1:30 p.m. for adults
Bring your knitting and crochet projects and join other fiber artists on the second Tuesday of every month. Work on your current projects, share patterns and ideas, and check out our knitting and crochet resources. All levels of experience are welcome. - Mystery Book Club
Midtown Carnegie upstairs meeting room
1:30 p.m. for adults
Join us to discuss all manner of mystery from current to classic, cozy to thriller, series and standalone.
"The Guest List" by Lucy Foley. - Green Burial Basics
6 p.m. for adults
In our pursuit of sustainable and eco-friendly lives, it is easy to overlook the impact that traditional burials have on the environment. Join Library staff member Krissy Sinor in a discussion of what constitutes a green burial and what options are available locally for those who are interested in going (out) green. This event is offered in-person and virtually; registration is required to attend virtually. Register at the link below; a link to the event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual
Registration starts October 26.
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- Minimalist Time Management for Sole Proprietors
The Library Center meeting rooms A and B
7 p.m. for adults
Sole proprietors wear all the hats in their business. Amity Farr of Simple Fly Life will offer strategies to help you focus on your most important tasks, implement a focused plan of action and achieve the results you desire. Learn to avoid time pitfalls, ascertain what your most important tasks are and implement a plan to pursue those tasks. Hosted by Southwest Missouri SCORE. Visit the link below or call to register. Registration starts October 19; call 417-883-1974.
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Wednesday, November 10, 2021
- Book Discussion
The Library Center meeting room B
1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. for adults
"The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo. - "Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate?" Resources to Help You Pass on Personal Possessions
6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. for adults
Dealing with a loved one's possessions following their death can be a quandary for family members. Who gets what? What should you do with the items no one wants? There are practical solutions that will help avoid conflicts and ensure treasured items are placed into the hands you intended. Amber Allen, field specialist in Human Development & Family Science with the University of Missouri Extension, will discuss recommendations and resources outlined in the book, "Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate?" from the University of Minnesota Extension. Attendees will also receive a free copy of the book. This event is offered in person and virtually; registration is required for either option. A link to the virtual event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
Registration starts October 27; email sarahr@thelibrary.org. - Virtual
Registration starts October 27.
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- Library Center auditorium
Saturday, November 13, 2021
- Zoom Into Storytime
Virtual
10 a.m. for preschool-grade 2
Join us for some very special virtual storytimes via Zoom for kids in preschool-grade 2. These interactive events encourage singing, dancing and some show-and-tell to keep little ones fully engaged with the storytime provider and each other. Registration for these Zoom storytimes must be made by a parent or guardian by emailing and providing their library card number. A link and a password to access the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
DiNovember Storytime! Join Republic Branch youth staffers Iggi & Amanda for a storytime filled with prehistoric fun! We’ll read dinosaur stories together along with fun rhymes and dinosaur dancing. Parents and guardians will have a chance to turn on their cameras for kids to share what their favorite dinosaur is. Registrations accepted October 29-November 13; email imagine@thelibrary.org. - Houseplants How-To
Midtown Carnegie upstairs meeting room
1 p.m. for adults
Learn how to harvest, propagate and display your houseplant cuttings.
Plant Hanger Macrame. Bring an old T-shirt and a favorite small planter (or use ours) to create a macra-mazing plant hanger for your home or to give as a gift. - Changes and Challenges in Funeral Folkways During Plagues and Pandemics
2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. for adults
Using history, anthropology and future studies, Jon Shafer, humanities scholar, chaplain and board member of the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Greater Kansas City, will discuss the public health crises, past, present and future, arising from plagues and pandemics. He’ll also lead a discussion with the audience on changes, desired and despised, in funeral rituals and ways of facing death. This event is offered in-person and virtually; registration is required to attend virtually. Register at the link below; a link to the event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual
Registration starts October 30.
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- Forensic Files: Real Life in the Medical Examiner’s Office
4 p.m. for adults
Chief Forensic Investigator Tom Van De Berg will share a behind-the-scenes look at the Greene County Medical Examiner’s Office and discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic affected work at the ME’s office. This event is offered in-person and virtually; registration is required to attend virtually. Register at the link below; a link to the event will be shared with registered participants. A Death & Dying event.- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual
Registration starts October 30.
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Sunday, November 14, 2021
- Death Café of the Ozarks
The Library Center auditorium
2 p.m.-4 p.m. for adults
Having open, honest discussions about death and dying can help alleviate our fears, make educated decisions and remind us to live life to the fullest. We’ll wrap up the Death & Dying series with casual conversations about death-related topics of interest in a safe, judgment-free environment. Refreshments will be provided. A Death & Dying event.
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
- Ash Grove Bibliophiles
Ash Grove community room
1:30 p.m. for adults
"Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley.
Wednesday, November 17, 2021
- Exploring Genealogy
10 a.m. for adults
This event is offered in-person and virtually. Click on the link below to access the virtual event on the OGS Facebook page, facebook.com/ozarksgs. Sponsored by Ozarks Genealogical Society.- Library Center auditorium
Hidden Internet Resources for Genealogical Research. OGS member John Rosenhammer shares some unexpected places on the internet to discover more information to expand your genealogical history . - Virtual
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- Library Center auditorium
- Virtual Brown Bag Travelogue
Virtual
noon for adults
Sit back, relax and explore a new place from the comfort of your own home. A new video featuring a different adventure will be posted to the Library's YouTube channel, youtube.com/SpringfieldGreene, on the third Wednesday of each month.
Galveston Then & Now. Library staffer Krissy Sinor shares a special family trip to Galveston Island and Bolivar Peninsula. Explore the history of the area and see how revolutions, pirates and hurricanes contributed to Galveston as it is today.
Thursday, November 18, 2021
- Afternoon Book Discussion
The Library Station Santa Fe Room
1:30 p.m. for adults
"The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek" by Kim Michele Richardson.
Tuesday, November 23, 2021
- SCORE E3 Business Book Club
Virtual
noon for adults
E3 stands for Empowering and Educating Entrepreneurs. Join Southwest Missouri SCORE and The Library for a book club to inspire and motivate your work life, whatever it looks like. Discussion happens all month at facebook.com/groups/scoree3bookclub, with a live virtual discussion via Zoom near the end of the month. Register for the live discussion by clicking below; a link to the virtual event will be shared with registered participants.
"Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust & Connection, No Matter the Distance" by Erica Dhawan. Registration starts October 28.
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Use the Browse Programs links to view more programs.
