Library announces fall youth programs

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Roseburg Public Library’s fall youth program schedule includes activities for nearly every family.

Programs are free and open to the public. A Roseburg Public Library card is not required.

“Storytime with Aurora” is a mainstay. Youth Services Librarian Aurora Ropp will present the same weekly selection of stories at 10:15 a.m. every Wednesday and Thursday beginning Wednesday, Oct. 1 and Thursday, Oct. 2. At Storytime, kids aged 2 to 5 and their parents or caregivers listen to stories, songs, movement rhymes and create a simple craft.

Lap-Sit Storytime, which is perfect for children from 6 months to 2 years old, will be offered at 10:15 a.m. on third Tuesdays: Oct. 21, Nov. 18 and Dec. 16. The program features 20 minutes of interactive rhymes and songs for babies and caregivers, props to play with and books.

“There will be a playtime at the end for babies and caregivers to connect,” Ropp said. “The structure is flexible and participants are welcome to attend for as long or short as babies are willing.”

Youths and young adults in sixth through 12^th grades are invited to the library’s teen programming from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on first Wednesdays: Oct. 1, Nov. 5 and Dec. 3. Ropp will be in the Teen Room with crafting supplies and gaming equipment. Check the library’s Events Calendar for the specific activity each month.

Teen volunteer hours for those aged 13 to 18 are scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. on third Wednesdays: Oct. 15, Nov. 19 and Dec. 17. Library staff will supervise activities such as packaging craft kits, light housekeeping and alphabetizing books.

“This is a great time to earn volunteer hours needed for school or to gain experience for a first job application,” Ropp said.

Teens under age 18 must have a Permission Slip and Liability Waiver signed by a parent or guardian before beginning service. Teens who are 18 years old and in their senior year of high school should complete a Volunteer Policy Application. Both documents are available on the library’s website or at the library’s front desk.

From 4 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2, and Thursday, Nov. 6, all of the library’s Legos, Duplos and building objects will be available for all ages to enjoy on a drop-in basis.

The library’s Chess Club is set for 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on first Saturdays: Oct. 4, Nov. 1 and Dec. 6. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. The library has four chess sets to share and attendees are welcome to bring their own boards. Registration is not required. Simply show up ready to meet new people and have fun.

New this fall, Ropp will facilitate a book club for elementary-aged readers. At 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, participants will discuss the Dragon Girls series by Maddy Mara. At 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, Ropp will lead a talk about the Warriors books by Erin Hunter. Attendees will select the series to discuss in December.

“Each month, kids should read a book in the selected series and be ready to talk about it with others. I will read passages from the series, guide the discussion and lead a simple themed activity,” Ropp said.

Elementary-aged youth are invited to drop in for a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) program from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on third Thursdays: Oct. 16, Nov. 20 and Dec. 18. There will be hands-on interaction with Ozobots, 3D pens and LEDs with all supplies provided.

From 4 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23, and Thursday, Dec. 4, youth from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade are welcome to drop in for seasonal crafts – making pretty pumpkins or sparkling ornaments. All supplies will be provided.

Finally, grab-and-go craft kits for youth will be available on a first-come, first-served basis every other Tuesday at 10 a.m. beginning Tuesday, Oct. 7.

For a full list of events, check out the Events Calendar on the library’s website at www.roseburgpubliclibrary.org. Patrons also may stop by the library, call 541-492-7050 or email library@roseburgor.gov for information.

“We look forward to seeing children and families at the library this fall!” Ropp added.