History is on tap at the library

The People are Kind: How Religious Diversity Shaped Iowa

Tuesday, April 22, 5:30 p.m.

Join Iowa author and historian, Bill Douglas for a discussion of the diverse religious beliefs, from indigenous peoples to present day congregations, that shaped Iowa’s history and people. Following the presentation, Douglas will be selling and signing copies of his new book, The People are Kind: A Religious History of Iowa. Questions? Contact public services librarian Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.

Chess Club for Kids!

Monday, April 28, 1 –3 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. Questions? Contact Youth services librarian Phyllis Peter at 641-792-4108.

May Day Basket Drop-In

Thursday, May 1, 4:30 – 6 p.m.

May baskets are small baskets that have traditionally been left on the doorsteps or hung on the doorknobs of friends, family, and neighbors on the first day of May. Decorate a May Day basket at the library and fill it up with goodies at this drop-in program for all ages. Event ends at 6:00 p.m. or until supplies are gone! Questions? Contact public services librarian Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.

Iowa Prohibition

Thursday, May 8, 5:30 p.m.

Join Iowa historical fiction writer, Ann Hanigan Kotz, as she takes you through the early 20th century in her program, Iowa’s Prohibition & Bootlegging Legacy. You’ll discover the state’s Prohibition journey along with why many families turned to bootlegging. Ann takes you through the distant past, beginning with the murder of a pastor in Sioux City, the tarring of an official by the Iowa City Beer Mafia, the rumrunning of Iowa’s infamous rye whiskey in Templeton, and ending with the current exploits of today’s underground whiskey business. This program is free to attend and open to the public. Questions? Contact public services librarian Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.

Blues Under the Blue Roof: Cindy Grill

Thursday, May 15, 5 p.m.

Cindy Grill performs at the final Blues Under the Blue Roof of the year! This event is held in the library meeting room and is free to attend. All ages welcome. This concert series is made possible by the South Skunk Blues Society, The Arts Connection, and the Newton Public Library Foundation. Questions? Contact public services librarian Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.

Summer Plant Swap

Plant Swap: Thursday, June 12, 5 – 6 p.m.

Plant Drop Off: June 7 – 11

Pick up something green at our summer plant swap! Drop off your extra or unwanted plants at the library June 7 - 11 and pick up a swap ticket for each plant you bring in. Donations may include houseplants, flowers, vegetables, perennials, and annuals. Bring your tickets back on June 12 between 5 - 6 p.m. to exchange them for new plants to take home! Plants must be healthy, rooted in soil, and include identification. Questions? Contact public services librarian Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.