September 20, 2024

October holds more than just chills at the Newton Public Library

Historian and author Kathy Wilson will visit the library and talk about the transformation of English landscapes, from medieval herb gardens to cottage gardens July 15.

Bookish Birdhouses Art Show

Swing by and check out our annual Bookish Birdhouse Art Show. The art show features more than 50 birdhouses, designed and decorated by readers of all ages in honor of their favorite books and authors. The show will run through Sept. 30.

Chess Club for Kids!

Monday, Sept. 23, 3 – 5 p.m.

Kids in grades 1st – 6th are invited to learn how to play chess and practice with other children their own age. This program is free to attend and will be held in the teen area. No registration required.

October Mystery Bag

Wondering what to read next? Check out our FREE monthly mystery bags for adults! Mystery bags have a different theme every month and contain a surprise selection of 4-5 books and an adult craft. Return the library books when you’re done with them - keep the craft. The October theme is “Thrills & Chills!” and will include a selection of thrillers, mysteries, and spooky spine-tinglers. The craft is a “pet ghost” in a jar. Registration opens Sept. 23. Call the library at 641-792-4108 to register. Ages 18+

Gory Stories Book Club

Tuesday, Oct. 1, noon

Do you love true crime? Join our monthly Gory Stories Book Club! Bring your lunch and join other true crime addicts to discuss a new book each month and share our favorite books, podcasts and documentaries! Copies of the book can be picked up at the library information desk. The October book selection is “Bright Young Women” by Jessica Knoll.

Iowa’s Lost Titanic History

Monday, Oct. 14, 5:30 p.m.

What do an orphan train rider, a kidnapper, a missionary, and a farmer have in common? All had ties to Iowa, and all were passengers aboard the ill-fated Titanic on the fateful night of April 15, 1912, when the ocean liner sank. Join historian, Darcy Maulsby on a remarkable journey as she brings these unforgettable stories from the “ship of dreams” back to life. This program is free to attend and open to the public.

The Salem Witch Trials: History & Hysteria

Thursday, Oct. 17, 5:30 p.m.

In 1692 more than 200 people were accused of witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts; 20 were executed. Why? What happened to create such hysteria? Were the accusers possessed? Experiencing delusions caused by eating spoiled grain? Discover the real story behind the Salem Witch Trials with historian Kathy Wilson. This program is free to attend and open to the public.