Library Events
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Become a Published Author
Publishing Day has arrived!
Great job writing all Summer long. Share your work with your friends and enjoy some pizza. Parents will be required to attend this session to publish their children’s manuscripts on their Amazon KDP accounts. Please bring a laptop if you have one available!
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Monday Movie Matinee
Join us for Monday Movie Matinee all Summer long! Every Monday we will screen a family friendly movie in the community room of the library, paired with a craft and snacks. This week we’re watching Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules. Register today to reserve your spot.
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Monday Movie Matinee
Join us for Monday Movie Matinee all Summer long! Every Monday we will screen a family friendly movie in the community room of the library, paired with a craft and snacks. This week we’re watching Shrek. Register today to reserve your spot.
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Monday Movie Matinee
Join us for Monday Movie Matinee all Summer long! Every Monday we will screen a family friendly movie in the community room of the library, paired with a craft and snacks. This week we’re watching Spiderwick Chronicles. Register today to reserve your spot.
Tween D&D
Join us for an exciting Dungeons & Dragons adventure designed just for preteens ages 8–13! Whether you're brand new to the world of dragons, dice, and daring quests or already have some experience, this program is the perfect place to jump in. Library staff will guide players through character creation, storytelling, and gameplay in a fun, welcoming environment. Work together, solve problems, and let your imagination lead the way!
No experience necessary, and new players are welcome.
Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance to secure your spot on the adventure!
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Monday Movie Matinee
Join us for Monday Movie Matinee all Summer long! Every Monday we will screen a family friendly movie in the community room of the library, paired with a craft and snacks. This week we’re watching Ferdinand. Register today to reserve your spot.
Quad City Botanical Center: Miniature Green Houses
Plant a seed of gardening! Step aboard the QC Botanical Center’s Plant Discovery Bus and dig your hangs into learning! Create your own miniature Green House while discovering what it takes to help plants grow and prosper!
One Act Play Rehearsals
The community room will be reserved for student one-act play rehearsals throughout the summer. Participants will use the space to practice scenes, collaborate with their cast, and prepare for a culminating public performance at the end of the season. Library staff may assist with scheduling and provide basic support as students work toward bringing their productions to life.
Figge Art Class for Kids
Plant a seed of art! Join the River Valley District Library and the Figge Art Museum for a hands-on class you won’t want to miss.
Travel through time as you explore the stories behind some of the world’s most famous masterpieces, and then bring those techniques to life with your own creative twist! Perfect for curious minds and budding artists alike!
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Monday Movie Matinee
Join us for Monday Movie Matinee all Summer long! Every Monday we will screen a family friendly movie in the community room of the library, paired with a craft and snacks. This week we’re watching The Jungle Book Register today to reserve your spot.
Magician Zach Percell
Plant a seed of magic! Get ready for an unforgettable experience as the River Valley District Library presents an incredible live magic show with the one and only Zach Percell of TnZ Magic!
Prepare to be amazed as Zach brings the impossible to life with a thrilling mix of jaw-dropping visual magic, laugh-out-loud comedy, mind-bending mentalism, daring escape artistry, and masterful sleight-of-hand.
This isn’t just a magic show, it’s an interactive adventure that will leave audiences of all ages wondering… “How did he do that?!”
Don’t miss your chance to experience the wonder, the laughter, and the magic at River Valley District Library!
Mini Book Shelves
Create your own mini bookshelf in this fun, hands-on library program! Participants will design and decorate a small bookshelf that’s perfect for holding tiny books, trinkets, and keepsakes.
Use a variety of craft materials to customize your shelf and make it uniquely yours with decorative touches and creative details. Whether you love books, crafting, or both, this program is a great way to make something special to take home!
One Act Play Rehearsals
The community room will be reserved for student one-act play rehearsals throughout the summer. Participants will use the space to practice scenes, collaborate with their cast, and prepare for a culminating public performance at the end of the season. Library staff may assist with scheduling and provide basic support as students work toward bringing their productions to life.
Tween D&D
Join us for an exciting Dungeons & Dragons adventure designed just for preteens ages 8–13! Whether you're brand new to the world of dragons, dice, and daring quests or already have some experience, this program is the perfect place to jump in. Library staff will guide players through character creation, storytelling, and gameplay in a fun, welcoming environment. Work together, solve problems, and let your imagination lead the way!
No experience necessary, and new players are welcome.
Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance to secure your spot on the adventure!
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Monday Movie Matinee
Join us for Monday Movie Matinee all Summer long! Every Monday we will screen a family friendly movie in the community room of the library, paired with a craft and snacks. This week we’re watching The Secret World of Arrietty. Register using the form below to reserve your spot.
Family Museum Presents: Seeing is Believing
Plant a seed of science! Join River Valley District Library and The Family Museum for a fun and educational program! Learn how our eyes work and how they help us to see. Experiment with optical illusions that show how parts of how vision works.
Best for kids in grades 2-6th
One Act Play Rehearsals
The community room will be reserved for student one-act play rehearsals throughout the summer. Participants will use the space to practice scenes, collaborate with their cast, and prepare for a culminating public performance at the end of the season. Library staff may assist with scheduling and provide basic support as students work toward bringing their productions to life.
Skippy The Drum Machine: A Music Show For All Ages
Plant a seed of music! “Skippy The Drum Machine” is an educational concert showing how music is made through the voice, body, and beatboxing, the art of making drum sounds with your mouth. Led by Luke “Skippy” Harbur, you’ll learn something new, make silly sounds, wiggle your body, and leave with tools for how to make your own music! No experience necessary: no matter your age, this program proves we are all smarter, kinder, and better together!
Become a Published Author
Calling all young storytellers ages 10 and up!
In this 8-week workshop, kids and teens will turn their ideas into real, published books.
This program is all about choice and creativity. Writers can create whatever inspires them, including graphic novels, picture books, chapter books, poetry collections, or short story anthologies. The workshop will provide these authors time to write, share, and give each other feedback in a supportive group setting.
In the final weeks, we’ll polish and prepare each project for publication. Library staff will format books for Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and during our last session, families will help their child upload their books and hit “publish”!
No writing experience is necessary. Every participant will leave a published author, and will be acknowledged at the reading and signing at the end of the Summer.
Plushie Faux Taxidermy
Give old plushies a cute new life in this fun, creative program for teens! In this hands-on workshop, we’ll turn stuffed animals into unique decorative wall mounts using simple crafting techniques and lots of imagination. Participants can mix and match colors, fabrics, and accessories to create something totally their own. All materials will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own beanie-baby sized plushies if they prefer. It’s a playful way to reuse old favorites and make something new to display and enjoy!
Monday Movie Matinee
Join us for Monday Movie Matinee all Summer long! Every Monday we will screen a family friendly movie in the community room of the library, paired with a craft and snacks. This week we’re watching Snow White. Register today to reserve your spot.
Cakefy It!
Get ready for a delightfully deceptive art experience! Join professional artist and baker Miss Alice for a hands-on workshop where creativity meets illusion. Participants will learn how to use lightweight spackling and cake decorating tools to transform everyday objects into realistic “cake” creations that look good enough to eat (but definitely aren’t!).
Miss Alice will guide you step-by-step through techniques for piping, texturing, and adding decorative details, helping you turn ordinary items into eye-catching works of art. Perfect for teens and adults of all skill levels, this program is a fun way to explore mixed-media art and learn something totally unique.
Tween Scene: Art Roulette
Take a spin on creativity with Art Roulette! In this fast-paced, collaborative program, participants will start their own piece of art—then pass it along for someone else to continue. Watch your creation change and grow as it moves around the room, with each person adding their own unique touch.
You never know how your artwork will turn out, and that’s part of the fun! This program is all about creativity, surprises, and letting go of perfection. This program is open to tweens age 8 – 12.
Incredible Bats
Plant a seed of wonder! Join us for Incredible Bats, an exciting live animal program where you’ll meet fascinating creatures from around the world—up close and in person.
Meet the Animals:
Fruit Bats 🦇
Fennec Fox 🦊
Armadillo
Rabbit 🐰
Short-Tailed Possum
Hedgehog 🦔
Sugar Gliders
Dormice
Box Turtle 🐢
Bearded Dragon 🦎
Leachianus Gecko
Leopard Gecko
Ball Python 🐍
Corn Snake
Tarantula 🕷️
Learn amazing facts about bats and their important role in our ecosystem, along with all their animal friends. This interactive presentation is perfect for curious kids who love wildlife, nature, and a little adventure!
Part of our “Plant a Seed, Read” summer program, this event will spark curiosity and help you discover how even the smallest creatures make a big impact.