Spring events are flowering at the public library

Spring is a great time to stroll over to the Hamline Midway Library at 1558 West Minnehaha and check out a wide range of special programs for all ages.

The library features Preschool Storytimes on Fridays from 10:30-11am, with upcoming storytimes on May 13, 20, and 27 and June 3 and 10. Storytimes include stories, songs, puppets, and more. They’re a fabulous way for young children and their caregivers to enjoy bonding time together while building a foundation for learning success. Children of all activity levels are welcome.

The Kids’ Book Clubs meet Sat., May 14 and Sat., June 4. Kids ages 8-11 meet 1:30-2:15pm, and kids ages 11-14 meet 2:30-3:15pm. Readers get a chance to share their favorite books, enjoy snacks, and celebrate reading through discussion, activities, and games. New members are always welcome.

The Hamline Midway Elders present Chair Yoga on Thur., May 19 and 26, and June 2, 9, and 16 from 10:30-11:30am. All movement is done while seated or using a chair for balance. The class is taught by Nancy Giguere.

On Sat., May 21, 1-2pm, join the Baby Boomers Book Club to discuss Mitch Albom’s book “Have a Little Faith.” This book club is designed to bring baby boomers together to discuss books relevant to the concerns and questions of their generation. Expect to laugh, connect, and come away with some new perspectives about life as a baby boomer. Co-sponsored by the Hamline Midway Elders.

Teens Reading Bravely meets on Sat., May 21 and Sat., June 11, from 3-4pm. Teens grades 9 and up read and discuss books that would fall under the “Read Brave” genre of books that tackle challenging, timely topics in innovative ways.

Jody’s Documentary Film Series continues on Wed., May 25, 1-3pm, with the POV documentary “All the Difference” directed by Tod Lending. Two African-American teens from the South Side of Chicago dream of graduating from high school and going to college, even though statistics predict they’ll drop out. Oscar-nominated producer/director Lending follows the two young men as they work hard, overcome setbacks, and discover that support from teachers, family, and mentors makes all the difference. This is a special opportunity to view this film before it premieres on PBS in September 2016.

The library will be closed from Sat., May 28-through Mon., May 30 for the Memorial Day weekend, so plan to stock up on your long weekend reading materials early!

Saints and Sinners Mystery Book Club meets on Sat., June 4, 1-3pm. Contact Geraldine Balter at gerribalter@gmail.com or 651-224-5570 for more information.

Evening/Pajama Storytimes return on Tuesdays in June, with upcoming storytimes on June 7 and 14 from 6:30-7pm. Wear your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed animals and blankets to enjoy storytimes before bedtime.

On Sat., June 11, 2:30-4pm, the library hosts Optimal Well Being with educator Jim Rose. Rose will share a simple meditation technique that can help the body, mind, and spirit.

Finally, the Hamline Midway Library Association is seeking volunteers who’d enjoy working in the library’s pollinator-friendly gardens to keep the grounds looking beautiful. If you’re interested in helping, whether it’s on a one-time basis or more regularly, contact Carrie Pomeroy at carriepomeroy@icloud.com or 651-645-1196. No gardening experience is necessary; volunteers are available to help train you on what’s a weed and what’s a desirable plant!