Portland Library News

Puzzle It Out

Kick off the month of February with a little friendly competition at our seventh annual jigsaw puzzle competition on Saturday, February 1.  Sign up as a group of 2-4 puzzlers, or as an individual to be placed in a group.  Puzzle solving starts at 10:00 a.m. and goes until 2:00 p.m., with lunch provided.  The team closest to completion when time runs out wins.  Each member of the winning team gets a prize.  Ages 10 and up, with at least one adult per team. Registration required.

Quilling Club

Have you ever heard of Quilling? It is the art of using strips of paper to make different shapes, which can be used to decorate greeting cards, pictures, boxes, and more.  The library has a drop-in quilling club that meets on February 12 from 6:30-7:30.  All skill levels are welcome.  Bring your own supplies or use some of ours to work on projects together, show each other new techniques, and share ideas.

Hanging Around

Using a sturdy clothes hanger, glue, and various miniature items, you can create an adorable landscape to hang on your wall.  Join us on Tuesday, February 18 at 6:00 p.m. to try it!  Registration is required, ages 16 and up.

Children’s and Teen

LITTLES

Calling all scientists ages 5 & under! Explore simple science with our latest Virtual STEM Club Littles Edition: Snowstorm experiment. We ask that each young scientist get help from a caregiver to complete this project. Take-and-Make bags will be available starting Wednesday, February 12. Only 24 spots available so don’t wait to register!

Let’s get cozy during Books & Blankets on Thursday, February 20 at 6:00 pm! We’re taking this program inside where we’ll be celebrating all the comforts of togetherness. Perfect for little ones (ages 8 & under) and their grown-ups. Bring a blanket, snuggle up, and get ready for a warm and fuzzy storytime. Register today by calling 517-647-6981!

MIDDLES

Pick your project! Writers, ages 8-12, will get to choose their own project to work on during Write On!’s winter meetings. Curious about poetry? Want to find a penpal? Feeling crafty about cards? Want to create a comic strip? Always wanted to write a short story? Meetings will be Mondays from 6:00-7:30 pm December 16, January 20, and February 17. Sign up today at the Youth Desk!

Do you have what it takes to be a warrior in this year’s Ionia County Battle of the Books? Read books, answer trivia questions, and have fun, all while competing against other teams. Registration starts on Thursday, January 2 for students in 4th & 5th grade. Sign up as a team of up to 4, or register individually – each team must be led by an adult or teen team leader. Read all 3 battle books and be one of the best at answering book trivia questions to take your team to the final battle between the Ionia County libraries in April. Information and registration sheets can be picked up at the Youth Desk and must be completed by Monday, February 3.

Whoooo wants to investigate an owl’s latest meal?  Youuuuu can during our Virtual STEM Club: Investigative Crew. Middles, patrons ages 6-12, can register for a Take-and-Make bag starting Wednesday, January 15. This is a great biology activity to bring nature indoors and will help you learn about the food chain and ecosystems.

Jazz up your backpack or your library card with Beaded Keychains. Grab a Take-and-Make bag beginning Friday, February 14. We’ll provide our patrons ages 6-12, the beads and you add your snazzy touches to make a unique keychain!

TEEN

Create your own shimmering sensory bottle to add sparkle to your self-care routine with Teen Art Hour: Sweetheart Sensory Jar! This is a fun, creative way for teens (ages 13-18) to de-stress and refocus. There are only 12 spots available so be sure to sign up for your Take-and-Make bag beginning Saturday, February 1.

Have you ever dreamed about being in the library after hours? Now is your chance to help make it happen! Join us for a Teen Advisory Board meeting on Saturday, February 15 at noon to brainstorm ideas for an epic Teen Lock-In!!! From activities, to games, to food and themes, this is your chance to plan an unforgettable experience! T.A.B. has a space for all teens, ages 13-18. To become a member, simply register at the Youth Desk.