Events

Join special guest Lara Brady, niece of Hana Brady, for a community conversation exploring the true story behind Hana's Suitcase. The story follows the intertwined journeys of Fumiko Ishioka, a museum curator in Tokyo investigating the history of a suitcase from Auschwitz, and Hana Brady, the young girl who once owned it. This is a free event for adults and children ages 11 and older. The discussion will include topics that may not be suitable for younger children.

Learn how animals survive and thrive during Nebraska’s cold winter months in this engaging and educational program with our partners from Nebraska Wildlife Rehab. Participants will be introduced to the concept of basic animal adaptations and explore how Nebraska’s native wildlife use physical traits and behaviors to withstand harsh winter conditions. Perfect for curious learners, this program builds an understanding of local wildlife while encouraging appreciation for the natural world. This is a free event for kids ages 6-12. Registration is required.

Discover the basics of drawing in this beginner-friendly class led by artist Yulia Brynskikh. Participants will learn foundational techniques using simple tools such as pencils while exploring line, shading, and observation. No prior drawing experience is needed. All supplies will be provided. This is a free event for adults 19+. Registration is required.

How well do you know classic and popular storybook characters? Test your knowledge with a fun game of Storybook B-I-N-G-O! Registration is required.

Nestled among the trees and trails of Fontenelle Forest, stories take flight! Join OPL at Fontenelle Forest for a special storytime celebrating birds, nature, insects, and more. We’ll explore the wonders of nature through stories, songs, and movement. While this program is geared toward preschoolers, children of all ages are welcome. Admission to Fontenelle Forest is free for those attending storytime.

Curiosity Crew is a hands-on STEM class for children under the age of six! Each month we cover a science topic and complete an activity or art project associated with that concept. We're learning about engineering and movement by making Lego cars! 

Curiosity Crew is a hands-on STEM class for children under the age of six! Each month we cover a science topic and complete an activity or art project associated with that concept. We're learning about engineering and movement by making Lego cars!

In honor of Fat Bear Week, join in on the Fat Bear Fun at OPL with a special storytime. Enjoy books and songs about bears followed by crafting handmade binoculars to spot the Fat Bear Hall of Champions around the library. This event will be sure to entertain our littlest bear scouts! Parents/caregivers must remain with their child(ren) for the duration of the program and are encouraged to help younger children with the activity.

Every recipe tells a story. Bring a favorite family recipe and join us as we explore the connections between food, memory and identity through writing. We'll read examples of food writing, discuss how meals and traditions shape our lives, and create our own pieces inspired by the people, places, and stories gathered around our dinner tables. No writing experience necessary - just bring your curiosity and a recipe to share. This is a free event for children ages 8-12. Registration is required

Join OPL at The Joslyn for storytime, featuring stories, creative movement, music and exploration of a piece of art. Storytime is geared toward preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. This Storytime is part of The Joslyn's monthly Art-tastic Saturdays.

Spark Studio is a hands-on STEAM program for kids where creativity meets technology. Through fun challenges and interactive projects, participants build, design, and explore while developing problem-solving skills and confidence as makers. This is a free event for kids ages 7-12. Registration is required

Discover the colorful world of alebrijes, the imaginative Mexican folk art sculptures known for their vibrant patterns and fantastical animal designs. In this hands-on program, led by local artist Linda Garcia, patrons will learn about the history and cultural significance of alebrijes before creating their own sculpture. Participants will then bring their creations to life using clay and other materials. Registration is required

Learn how animals survive and thrive during Nebraska’s cold winter months in this engaging and educational program with our partners from Nebraska Wildlife Rehab. Participants will be introduced to the concept of basic animal adaptations and explore how Nebraska’s native wildlife use physical traits and behaviors to withstand harsh winter conditions. Perfect for curious learners, this program builds an understanding of local wildlife while encouraging appreciation for the natural world. This is a free event for kids ages 6-12. Registration is required

Experience an interactive, sensory-filled drop-in program led by Renee Sans Souci, Umoⁿhoⁿ educator. She will have a variety of materials to touch and talk about, including buffalo hide and items made from buffalo. This is a free event for all ages. Registration is encouraged but not required.

Curiosity Crew is a hands-on STEM class for children under the age of six! Each month we cover a science topic and complete an activity or art project associated with that concept. We're learning about engineering and movement by making Lego cars!

Join OPL for a cuddly and creative adoption day at the library in celebration of National Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month in October! Children are invited to listen to a tail-wagging read-aloud about pet adoption, then choose from a variety of different animal plushies to "adopt" and take home. Each animal plushie comes with the option to create a collar and special house along with the completion of an adoption certificate. Kids will have time to name their new friend and imagine fun adventures together. Come for the stories and fun-leave with a snuggly new companion! Select locations will have furry and scaly visitors from the Nebraska Humane Society! Check with the branch for more details. This is a free event for kids ages 3-10. Registration is required.

Learn how animals survive and thrive during Nebraska’s cold winter months in this engaging and educational program with our partners from Nebraska Wildlife Rehab. Participants will be introduced to the concept of basic animal adaptations and explore how Nebraska’s native wildlife use physical traits and behaviors to withstand harsh winter conditions. Perfect for curious learners, this program builds an understanding of local wildlife while encouraging appreciation for the natural world. This is a free event for kids ages 6-12. Registration is required.

Get ready for a super-powered event! Join wrestling superstar Latin Thunder for a demonstration of lucha libre! Latin Thunder will demonstrate some of his signature wrestling moves, talk about his Lucha Libre journey, and answer all your questions. After, it's your turn to unleash your inner hero! Strike a pose with Latin Thunder or decorate your very own luchador mask!

Spark Studio is a hands-on STEAM program for kids where creativity meets technology. Through fun challenges and interactive projects, participants build, design, and explore while developing problem-solving skills and confidence as makers. This is a free event for kids ages 7-12. Registration is required

In this interactive workshop, you will explore the fascinating science of bioluminescence—the natural ability of organisms to produce light! Participants will create their own glowing reactions using safe household materials, discover real-life bioluminescent organisms, and unleash their creativity by designing unique glowing deep-sea creatures.