Halloween Photo Booth
Sept. 30 – Oct. 31
Drop-in during any of our open hours September 30 - October 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.
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!
Fall Book Swap
Monday, Nov. 3, 5 – 6 p.m.
Clean out your bookshelves and pick up some new-to-you books at our Fall Book Swap! Drop off your gently used books at the library October 24 - November 1 and pick up a book swap ticket for each book you bring in. Bring your tickets back on November 3rd, between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. to pick out new books from the swap to take home! Books should be in good condition, clean, and gently used. Limit 15 tickets per person.
Holiday Mystery Bag
Wondering what to read next? Check out our free monthly mystery bags for adults! Mystery bags have a different theme every month and contain a surprise selection of 4-5 books and an adult craft. Return the library books when you’re done with them - keep the craft! The November/December theme is “Season’s Readings!” This special holiday themed bag will include a selection of holiday and winter-themed novels. The craft is a snow globe magnet. Registration opens November 3rd. Ages 18+
Library Book Sale
Nov. 4 & 5, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Pick up some great books while supporting your library! The Newton Public Library will be hosting a used book sale in the library meeting room November 4th & 5th. Cash and personal check will be accepted. Proceeds from the sale go towards supporting library projects and programs for all ages. Questions? Contact Public Services Librarian, Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.
From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond
Thursday, Nov. 13, 5:30 p.m.
Join author Dave Markward as he shares his journey of personal transformation; going from an exclusively white upbringing in Dubuque to a life enriched by diversity. In his latest memoir “From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond: My Journey to Understand Racism in America,” Dave delves into the complex world of racism and shares his unwavering belief in humanity and the power of education to effect change. Copies of “From Dubuque to Selma & Beyond” will be available for purchase at the event. This program is free to attend and open to the public.
Acrylic Holiday Paint-Along Class
Monday, Nov. 17, 5:30 p.m.
Join local artist, Kirsten Warrick, for an acrylic paint-along class at the library! Attendees are encouraged to bring an apron; all other materials will be provided. Registration is required to attend. Library cardholder registration opens November 10. Non-cardholders are welcome to register beginning November 12. Please call the library at 641-792-4108 to register. This event is sponsored by the Schiller Family Foundation. Ages 18+