Library News
- Cory Grimminck - Portland District Library Director
- Oct 13, 2024
- 4 min read

Get ready for a ghoulishly good time at our all-ages Jack-o-Lantern Jamboree on Friday, October 25 from 12:00-4:00 pm! Grab a goody bag, trick-or-treat around the library, enter our costume contest, and so much more! Don’t fright over registration or a ticket, this is a drop-in program where we want you to come for the boos, stay for the fun, and leave with hauntingly happy Halloween memories to hold!
Sunny Days to Spooky Nights
Can something you make on a bright sunny day haunt you during the dark of night? Find out, when we make spooky Halloween-themed art using cyanotype (or sun print) paper. Register anytime, and pick up your supplies on October 11. Ages 15 and up.
For the Love of Food
Our “For the Love of Food” journey continues this fall with a bonus for all who participate in our food exploration: for each “For the Love of Food” program you attend, you will get an entry for the chance to win a fabulous food-themed prize! In October, we move on to flavorful fall dishes—share your kitchen creations with us October 23 at 6:00 p.m. Don't forget to bring the recipe!
Rod Sadler
There’s always an audience for true crime, particularly when the crimes happened in Michigan. Join us as we welcome true crime author Rod Sadler, author of several books including “Grim Paradise: The Cold Case Search for the Mackinac Island Killer,” and Killing Women on October 30 at 6:00 p.m. He’ll have tales of murder and mayhem, answers to all your questions, and copies of his books to purchase.
Children’s and Teen
Books and Blankets
As the first crisp breeze of fall sweeps through the air, the world seems to transform overnight! Come join us on a warm and whimsical escape into the heart of fall at Books & Blankets on Thursday, October 17 at 6:00 pm. Bring a blanket to the Children’s Sensory Garden and get ready to explore the adventures of fall through songs and storytelling! Come have a yummy treat on us and take home a new book! This program is recommended for families with children ages 8 & under. Registration is required.
Virtual STEM Club Littles Edition: Night Sky
Littles (ages 5 & under) will love exploring the bright wonders of our world during Virtual STEM Club Littles Edition: Night Sky. Registration for Take-and-Make bags will begin on Friday, October 18. Follow along on YouTube as we guide you and your little one through building a light projector and creating a mini constellation book. This program does require registration, parental supervision, and is limited to 24 patrons.
Write On!
Picture prompts will spark imaginations during this fall’s Write On!, PDL’s young writers club for patrons ages 8-12. Club members will put pencil to paper during each club meeting, creating individual short stories using the same image as inspiration and sharing stories before the night is over. Meetings will take place Mondays from 6:00-7:30 pm October 28 and November 25. Supplies are provided to club members, all they need to bring is a good attitude and some creativity. Program is limited to 15 patrons between the ages of 8-12, and does require registration.
Virtual STEM Club: Tell Me a Secret!
Unlock the mysteries of invisible ink during Virtual STEM Club: Tell Me a Secret! Discover how simple science can make secret messages disappear and reappear. Using everyday household items, we will write hidden notes that only a special chemical reaction can reveal. Registration for Take-and-Make bags begins Wednesday, October 16. This program is recommended for ages 6-12, requires parental supervision, and is limited to 35 patrons.
Virtual Teen Art Hour: Totally Tote-tastic
Unleash your creativity during September's Teen Art Hour program "Totally Tote-tastic", where you'll use fabric markers and groovy boho-inspired stencils to design and decorate your very own tote bag! Whether you're into bold patterns, intricate designs, or vibrant colors, our Take-and-Make bags have got you covered. Register and pick yours up at the Youth Desk beginning Tuesday, September 3. There are 12 spots available for teens, ages 13-18.
Teen Chills & Thrills Movie Night
Get ready for a frightfully fantastic evening at our Teen Chills & Thrills Movie Night Tuesday, October 15 starting at 7:00 pm! Join us for a spine-tingling movie that will elicit fear and dread. Bring your friends, your favorite blanket, and prepare for a night of eerie entertainment and ghoulish good times. It’s going to be a scream! Popcorn, candy, and soda will be provided. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, September 3 at the Youth Desk. This program is for teens only, ages 13-18.
Page Turners
Teens, are you ready to dive into a story that will make you see the world a little differently? Join our teen book club, Page Turners, as we read "Holding Up the Universe" by Jennifer Niven. This powerful novel takes us into the lives of Libby and Jack—two teens with their own struggles who discover that sometimes, the most unexpected friendships are the ones that change everything. Whether you're a book lover or just looking for a place to connect with others, this is your chance to share thoughts, make new friends, and find out what it truly means to be seen. Space is limited to 10 teens, ages 13-18. Register at the Youth Desk beginning Tuesday, October 1 and pick up your very own copy of the book. Meetings will take place at 11:00 am in the Community Room on Saturday, November 2 and Saturday, November 23.
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