Library
Classes & Events
The library offers a wide variety of educational opportunities through engaging programs, classes, and events. Full event information, including registration forms when applicable, can be found on our Event Calendar. The month's current programming can be found in our latest newsletter, which is available in print in the library or on the Library's homepage.
Children's Programs
For all programs, see the Event Calendar for the latest information, program dates, and details.
Early Literacy programs, like Baby Storytime for ages 0-2, and Storytime for ages 3-8, are developed with careful attention to be engaging, educational, and boost early language and learning skills. These programs are free and no registration is required.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is an at-home program that encourages families to read 1,000 books together before their child enters Kindergarten. Rewards are earned for every 100 books read, and an annual graduation ceremony is held to recognize those who finish. Visit the Children's Desk in the library to learn more and sign up your child!
Golden Sower Book Club meets once a month to discuss books nominated for the Golden Sower Award, Nebraska's Children's Choice Book Award. The library provides the books so there is no cost to participate. This book club makes meaningful connections with literature and learning through fun discussion and book-related activities. For ages 8-12. Contact if you are interested in learning more or signing up your child.
Lego Club meets once a month during the school year. Kids engage in creative free play as well as build problem-solving and STEM skills. This program for students in Kindergarten through 6th Grade is free and no registration is needed.
Summer Learning programs are offered in June and July each year. A variety of literacy, arts, and science-based programs take place for all ages. Details vary each year. Pick up a Summer Reading Program booklet (available mid-May to July) for details.
The library supports the local Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which delivers free books to children's homes from birth to age 5. Any child in that age range who lives in Norfolk is eligible. There is no cost to participate. Sign up online or pick up a registration form in the library. The Imagination Library is sponsored by Read Aloud Norfolk.
Teen Programs
For all programs, see the Event Calendar for the latest information, program dates, and details.
Teen Book Club is for any teen who loves to read and talk about books. The group members select which books they want to read and also write a blog. The library provides the books so there is no cost to participate. Contact if you are interested in learning more or signing up.
Adult Programs
For all programs, see the Event Calendar for the latest information, program dates, and details.
Book Clubs provide meaningful engagement with literature, expand readers' horizons, and are a great way to meet new friends. New members are always welcome and an active library card is the only requirement. The library provides the books so there is no cost to participate. New members are encouraged to ask at the Service Desk for more information.
Tuesday Night Book Club - Typically meets on the last Tuesday of the month and reads a variety of fiction and non-fiction titles. This club is led by
Wednesday Morning Book Club - Typically meets on the last Wednesday of the month and reads a variety of fiction and non-fiction titles. This club is led by
20's & 30's Book Club - This club is especially for adults in their 20's and 30's and typically meets on the third Tuesday of the month. This club is led by .
Knot Just Knitters - This program is for needle-crafters of all ages. It's an informal time to work on projects, share and learn skills, talk about books, and meet others interested in needle arts. This group meets every other Saturday afternoon from 2:30-4pm. Newcomers of all abilities are always welcome.
Tech Tutoring - Get personal tutoring to gain technology skills and learn how computers and technology work. Reserve a 30-minute session by contacting Mike Dittmer, Library Technology Specialist, at 402-844-2100.
MakerSpace Classes - The library's MakerSpace currently has an Embroidery Machine, Laser Cutter, 3D Printer, Vinyl & Fabric Cutter, and Button Maker. The MakerSpace provides public access to high-tech equipment to boost technology skills and creative opportunities. Classes are required before using the equipment. Check the MakerSpace page to learn more.
Author Programs, Computer Classes, Humanities Programs, and other special events are often added to our regular monthly programs. Please check the Event Calendar or our monthly newsletter to see everything currently offered!
For All Ages
The Summer Reading Program is a great way to engage all ages in reading and learning! For the Reading Rewards Program, participants track the time they spending reading, being read to, or listening to audio books. With a goal of encouraging participants to read 20-30 minutes a day, participants who complete the entire program will have read 25 hours over the course of the summer. Those who reach this goal can turn their Reading Log in for prizes! The Summer Reading Program also includes lots of fun and educational programs for all ages. Check the Event Calendar for dates and event details, or stop in the library to pick up a booklet during the summer.
The Annual Golden Sower Literature Festival is held the last Saturday in July each year and is a wonderful way to spend a summer day. The Festival features 3 nationally known authors who have been nominated for a Golden Sower Book Award, which is Nebraska's Children's Choice Book Award. Attendees can participate in small-group writer's workshops, each led by one of the authors, or get a preview of upcoming Golden Sower Award nominees. Each author presents a program for the entire audience, and there are book sales, sales of Golden Sower merchandise, door prizes, and an autograph session. Discounted tickets are available for those that complete the Summer Reading Program. Continuing Education Points are available for teachers and staff employed by Norfolk Public Schools and for librarians in the Public Library Certification program. For ages 10-adult.