July 04, 2025

Attend the library programs and enjoy all that’s offered!

The Des Moines Symphony Instrument Petting Zoo offers hands-on experiences for children ages 3 and up at area schools and community libraries.

Des Moines Symphony Instrument Petting Zoo

Tuesday, July 8, 10 a.m.

Children ages 4 to 7 may register to attend this hands-on program introducing the violin and the cello. Kids will have the chance to try a violin and a cello, and learn about the different sounds and dynamics of these stringed instruments. There will also be a music note craft to take home.

Cold-Blooded Redhead Reptile Show

Wednesday, July 9, 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Lindsay Butikofer of the Cold-Blooded Redhead will show off some of her amazing reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and a tortoise! Tickets are required. This event is best suited for children ages 3 – 12.

Teen Craft Program: Mandala Painted Rocks

Wednesday, July 9, 5:30 p.m.

Teens are invited to join us at the library to make painted mandala rocks. Call the library at 641-792-4108 to register. Grades 5-12, grade just completed.

Dinosaur Encounter

Monday, July 14, 1 – 3 p.m. Children are invited to come to the Library on July 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. to see dinosaurs up close and personal! Visiting dinosaurs will include Alexie a T-Rex and Angus the Carnotaurus and some smaller “baby” dinosaurs. Don’t miss this awesome event. This is a come and go event, not a presented program. No registration required, event is free to attend.

Houseplant Propagation Workshop with The Plant Dealer

Tuesday, July 15, 5:30 p.m.

Join Sylvia Townsend, owner of The Plant Dealer in Newton, for a propagation workshop at the Newton Public Library. Learn the best techniques to propagate your plants to share or grow your collection! All materials and plants will be provided. Registration is required and opens on July 7 for library cardholders. Non-cardholders may register beginning July 9. Call the library at 641-792-4108 to register. Ages 18+.

Mario & Princess Peach Pool Party at Maytag Pool

Tuesday, July 22, 6 – 8 p.m.

The Newton Public Library and the Newton Parks and Recreation Department are hosting a free pool party at Maytag Pool on July 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are available for pickup at the library. You must have a free ticket to enter the event, so that we can be sure we are adhering to pool capacity limits for everyone’s safety. Princess Peach and Mario will be there the first hour to greet kids!

Prehistoric Tools of Iowa’s Indigenous People with Steve Miller

Thursday, July 24, 5:30 p.m.

Join Steve Miller, avocational archaeologist, outdoor enthusiast and Newton resident, for a fascinating discussion of the prehistoric tools he’s found & collected throughout Central Iowa. Miller will share his favorite artifact-hunting stories, along with displays from his impressive personal collection. This program is free to attend and open to the public. Sponsored by the Newton Public Library Foundation. Questions? Contact public services librarian Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.