July 18, 2025

Stories and displays of prehistoric tools July 24 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.

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 will be available for pickup at the library beginning June 23. 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.

Whitetail: Treasure, Trophy, or Trouble? – A History of Deer in Iowa

Tuesday, July 29, 5:30 p.m.

Hunters, farmers, gardeners, homeowners, motorists, and wildlife watchers each may have their own opinions of deer – but it’s no exaggeration to say that Iowa’s prolific deer herd affects nearly every person in the state.

Larry Stone will examine our love-hate relationship with deer in his program Whitetail: Treasure, Trophy or Trouble? – A History of Deer in Iowa. Stone traces the fascinating saga of an animal that had nearly vanished a century ago, but whose population has exploded in recent years. It’s a testimony to the incredible adaptability of deer, as well as to a century of conservation and restoration efforts – and the challenges of managing a bountiful herd. It’s a story with broad appeal to anyone interested in Iowa’s outdoors. The program includes striking photos by Stone and premier wildlife photographer the late Roger Hill. The presentation lasts about 40 minutes and will be followed by an open discussion and questions. This event is sponsored by Humanities Iowa. A cultural resource for Iowans since 1971, Humanities Iowa offers many cultural and historical programs and grants to Iowa’s communities. Questions? Contact Public Services Librarian, Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.

Mermaid & Moana Pool Party at Maytag Pool

Tuesday, July 29, 6 – 8 p.m.

The Newton Public Library and the Newton Parks and Recreation Department are hosting a free pool party on July 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. This event is generously sponsored by FNNB of Newton. Tickets will be available for pickup at the library beginning June 23. You must have a free ticket to enter the event, so we can be sure we are adhering to pool capacity limits for everyone’s safety. Two mermaids and Moana will be there to greet kids!

The Underground Railroad in Iowa

Thursday, July 31, 5:30 p.m.

Join storyteller Darrin Crow, as he shares the fascinating story of the small town of Salem, Iowa, and the heroic citizens who helped hundreds of enslaved people find their way north to freedom. This program is free and open to the public; all ages welcome to attend. This event is made possible by the Newton Public Library Foundation. Questions? Contact Public Services Librarian, Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.