Racine, WI — The Racine Public Library is set to offer a diverse array of programs and events for all ages this late summer and early fall. With a variety of activities lined up, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Registration Information: Residents can register for library programs by calling (262) 636-9217, visiting the library at 75 7th Street, Racine, Wisconsin, or through the library’s website at RacineLibrary.info. The library’s operating hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For a comprehensive schedule of activities, visit RacineLibrary.info/calendar.
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Upcoming Events and Highlights:
Visit the Portable Planetarium: On Tuesday, August 27, the Seeing Stars Portable Planetarium will offer an immersive experience exploring constellations, space exploration, and interstellar travel. Sessions will be held at noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. Registration is required; visit RacineLibrary.info/calendar to select your timeslot. This event is suitable for all ages.
4th Annual Lakefront Expo: The African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Racine’s Lakefront Expo returns on Saturday, September 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event, held outside the Racine Public Library, features vendors, food, games, music, a classic car show, performances, financial workshops, and children’s activities. Sponsors include Racine County, Chase Bank, and the Racine Public Library.
Summer Reading Program: Running from June 1 to August 31, the Summer Reading Program offers adventure-themed activities for all ages. Participants can engage in reading challenges, crafts, and the Amazing Library Race. More details and activities can be found at RacineLibrary.info/AdventureBegins. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Racine Public Library.
Summer Scares: For those who enjoy a thrill, Summer Scares runs concurrently with the Summer Reading Program, featuring book groups, movie viewings, and craft sessions focused on horror themes. This program is also sponsored by the Friends of the Racine Public Library.
Ongoing and Upcoming Programs:
- Racine Library Chess Mates: Casual chess sessions led by USCF member Jeff Garcia will take place on Wednesday, August 21, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the library’s Adult Services Community Room. All ages are welcome, and registration is encouraged.
- Don Rosen Show: On Thursday, August 22, from 7 to 8 a.m., tune in to WRJN for a segment featuring library staff discussing various programs and services. The next appearance will be on Tuesday, August 27, from 7 to 8 a.m.
Children’s Programs:
- Open Gaming Lounge: On Saturday, August 17, from noon to 1 p.m., kids in grades K-6 can enjoy gaming sessions on the library’s computers. Registration is required.
- STEAM Workshops: Tinkering with Tech: Also on Saturday, August 17, from 1 to 2 p.m., kids and tweens can explore robotics and tech toys. Registration is required.
- LEGO Club: On Saturday, August 17, from 1 to 3 p.m., children and tweens can unleash their creativity with LEGOs. No registration needed.
- Storytime Adventures with UW-Extension: On Monday, August 19, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., children and caretakers can enjoy imaginative storytime adventures. No registration required.
- Ruff Readers: From Monday, August 19, through Thursday, August 22, from 4 to 5 p.m., children can practice reading skills with therapy dogs. Registration is required.
- Minecraft Club: On Tuesday, August 20, from 4 to 5 p.m., kids entering grades 2-5 can join multiplayer Minecraft sessions. Registration is required.
- Coding Classes: Scratch 101: On Thursday, August 22, from 5 to 6 p.m., kids and tweens can learn the basics of coding with Scratch. Registration is required.
Tween and Teen Programs:
- Open Gaming Lounge: On Saturday, August 17, from noon to 1 p.m., grades K-6 can participate in gaming sessions. Registration required.
- STEAM Workshops: Tinkering with Tech: On Saturday, August 17, from 1 to 2 p.m., kids and tweens can explore technology and robotics. Registration required.
- LEGO Club: On Saturday, August 17, from 1 to 3 p.m., enjoy creative LEGO building. No registration needed.
- Ruff Readers: From Monday, August 19, through Thursday, August 22, from 4 to 5 p.m., practice reading with therapy dogs. Registration required.
- Minecraft Club: On Tuesday, August 20, from 4 to 5 p.m., participate in Minecraft sessions. Registration required.
Adult Programs:
- Educational Opportunity Center: On Monday, August 19, from 3 to 5 p.m., adults can get free guidance on continuing education. No registration needed.
- Navigating Unemployment Insurance with UMOS: On Tuesday, August 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the fourth Tuesday of each month from 1 to 4 p.m., get assistance with unemployment insurance. No registration required.
- Senior Art: Abstract Art with Shannon: On Tuesday, August 20, from noon to 2 p.m., adults 50+ can create a beach painting using unconventional tools. Registration required.
- Driver’s License Reinstatement Clinic with LIFT WI: On Tuesday, August 20, from 3 to 6 p.m., work with an attorney to reinstate your driver’s license. Registration required.
- Summer Scares: Adult Craft Night – Specimen Bottles: On Wednesday, August 21, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., create spooky specimen boxes. Registration required.
- Coffee and Conversation: On Thursday, August 22, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., join a discussion over coffee and tea. No registration needed.
Community Involvement:
- Racine Fiber Arts: Help prep Pride quilt fabric swatches throughout August at various locations. The LGBT Center of SE Wisconsin is involved in these crafty programs.
- Stitch N Bitch: On August 27 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Racine Public Library Business Center, join a crafting session. No registration required.
For further details and to register for events, please visit RacineLibrary.info or contact the library at (262) 636-9217.
About the Racine Public Library: Founded in 1897 and located on Lake Michigan’s shore since 1958, the Racine Public Library is dedicated to enhancing community life through diverse programs, fostering literacy, and promoting civic engagement.
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