September 26, 2025

Geeking out on ghosts Oct. 9 at the NPL

Metro Creative

Chess Club for Kids!

Monday, Sept. 29, 1 – 2:30 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

Halloween Photo Booth

Sept. 30 – Oct. 31

Drop-in during any of our open hours Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 and take photos in our pop-up Halloween Photo Booth! You bring a camera; we’ll provide the set. Costumes are welcome. No registration required.

Library Closed for Staff Training

Wednesday, Oct. 1

The Newton Public Library will be closed the morning of Oct. 1, for staff training. The library will reopen to the public at 2 p.m.

Library Fundraiser Puzzle Sale

Monday, Oct. 6, 5 – 6:30 p.m.

Choose from a great selection of gently used puzzles at out fundraiser puzzle sale! Cash & check will be accepted. Proceeds from the sale will go towards supporting library programs for all ages. Have extra puzzles you would like to donate? Puzzle donations will be accepted Sept. 22 - Oct. 4. Thank you for your support!

Geeking Out on Ghosts with the Psychic Bureau of Iowa

Thursday, Oct. 9, 5:30 p.m.

Join the Psychic Bureau of Iowa for a special program on Iowa ghost lore, legends & history, and an in-depth look at the world of modern ghost hunting & the work of mediums & psychics. Following the event 10-minute Tarot & psychic/medium readings will be available for $10 cash, for those who are interested. Registration and pre-payment are required for the tarot or psychic medium readings. No registration required if you only want to attend the program. Library cardholder registration for the personal readings begins Sept. 29, at the library information desk. Non-cardholders are welcome to register beginning Oct. 1. This program is best suited for adults ages 18+. Sponsored by the Newton Public Library Foundation.

Halloween Terrarium Class

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

Join local artist, Kirsten Warrick for a Halloween terrarium building workshop for adults. Attendees are encouraged to wear clothing that can get dirty! All other materials will be provided. Registration opens for library cardholders on October 6th. Non-cardholders are welcome to register beginning October 8th. Please call the library at 641-792-4108 to register. Ages 18+. Sponsored by the Newton Public Library Foundation.

Book Character Pumpkin Decorating Contest

Our annual pumpkin decorating contest is back! Decorate a pumpkin or gourd as your favorite book character. Pumpkins may be painted, dressed, or accessorized, but not carved. Please note that pumpkins that have holes in them go bad really fast, so painting and accessorizing works best for this contest. Categories will include: Family/Classroom, Independent Child and Adult. Independent child entries will be divided into age categories (4-7, 8-12, & 13-18) with prizes awarded to top 3 in each category. The public will vote for winners in all categories October 21-27, with winners announced on Oct. 28!