Summer 2025

Friday, June 6

6-8pm

The whole family is invited to join us for a FREE family night of fun, entertainment, prizes and food! A FREE light meal will be served. Pick up the entire summer schedule for children, teens and adults and be sure to register for our reading program and for reading support!

Saturday, August 2

10 am

This year, Ely will be reading "Ban This Book" by Alan Gratz. There will be FREE copies of the book available (one per family) at the library! Join us on August 2nd to discuss the book. Refreshments will be served.

For this learning activity, kids will be given minimal instructions to assemble the telescope so they can collaborate and problem solve to finish the craft

Provide students the chance to explore STEAM with this educational craft kit. This STEAM project allows students to build their own hovercraft and test its flight. Kids will learn about hovercraft and practice problem solving and working cooperatively with other students.

Take your STEM learning airborne as young scientists assemble parachutes, then load a penguin passenger inside for a thrilling ride. Aim for the target—will your penguin stay aboard or embark on an adventurous freefall?

Students can learn all about force, accuracy, precision, kinetic energy, gravity and angles with this fun activity.

Engineer a flying UFO with straws and other common materials.

What kinds of towers and buildings can you make with nothing but straws and tape? Come to the library to find out!

Create your own little yellow submarine with this 3D Floating Submarine Craft Kit! This submarine actually floats so kids will especially love crafting these bright submarines to display or play with anywhere! Fun for ocean studies, too!

June 10

2pm

Our program is structured to begin with a children's book about pollinators, followed by a discussion on pollinators, pesticides, and the harm pesticides can cause them. We then play an outdoor game that illustrates the decline of pollinator habitats. Then we wrap up with another discussion about what they learned during the game. We've run this program before, and the kids absolutely love it!

Sponsored by Good Neighbor Iowa

June 17 at 2pm

Located At City Hall

Ever tried to walk through a wall of foam? Imagine a cannon that, instead of shooting out cannonballs, shoots out white foam and is covering everyone in its path.

Sponsored by Hills Bank

June 24 at 2pm

Located At City Hall

Visit the Community Center to take a look at the Electric Cars put together by the Prairie High School Electric Car Club. There will be members of the club there to answer questions and show off their hard work. Pictures of cars on FB page: https://www.facebook.com/prairieeteam/#

July 1: Life-Sized Games Get ready for larger-than-life fun with giant versions of your favorite classic games like Connect 4, Plinko, and Tetris! Challenge your friends, test your skills, and enjoy some friendly competition in this playful, oversized game zone.

July 8: Obstacle Course

Join us as we crawl through tunnels, jump on stones and test our bodies' flexibility with a limbo game. Everyone will enjoy this outdoor opportunity to do something different.

July 15 at 2pm

Meet the llamas from Prairie Patch farm. We'll have them at the library for everyone to meet and get their pictures taken.

July 22: Bubbles!

Join us for a whimsical afternoon of bubble fun as we create giant, glimmering bubbles with oversized wands! Perfect for all ages, this breezy event promises laughter, magic, and bubbles bigger than your head.

July 29: No-Running Races

Can you carry an egg on a spoon without dropping it? That's just one of the several relays that we'll have to get everyone out and enjoying the outdoors.

June 11 at 2pm

The Iowa Raptor Project currently displays 17 unreleasable birds of prey historically found in Iowa. They will bring three of their giant birds for us to see and learn more about all birds of prey.

Sponsored by Hills Bank

June 18 at 2pm

This will be a "Bunny 101" presentation where they talk about the care and maintence of having bunnies for pets. After that, everyone gets to meet some bunnies!

June 25 at 2-4pm

Thanks to the Witwer Trust Grant

The Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium will be sharing its popular shark tank display with the Ely Public Library. Our traveling touch tank brings live ocean animals to you! Break down common misconceptions surrounding sharks and rays, as we highlight the unique adaptations these animals have to survive. The program will also allow participants to explore the important roles sharks and rays play in the ecosystem, learn how the actions of people in the landlocked Tri-State area impact sharks and rays that live thousands of miles away, and discover how people can help protect them. Afterward, participants may get their hands wet and touch some of the sharks.

Local farmers are going to share the big equipment that it takes to get their jobs done. Perfect for all kids who would enjoy an up-close look at tractors and more.

Sponsored by Johnson County Farm Bureau

July 9 at 2pm

Thanks to New Leader Manufacturing Grant

Their mission is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research and recreation. Blank Park Zoo brings this inspiration to you through “Zoo to You” programs, with our engaging and memorable education experiences.

Sponsored by the New Leader Manufacturing Grant

July 16 at 2pm

Barnyard Discoveries was created to share “a day at the farm” with its visitors in their own location. You will see a cow, chickens, goats, sheep, and more. It truly is a field trip in the Community Center parking lot.

Sponsored by the New Leader Manufacturing Grant

July 23 at 2pm

Magician Rick Eugene will entertain all of our visitors with a fun and surprising magic show.

July 30 at 2pm

Thanks to New Leader Manufacturing Grant

You'll see Fire light up in different beautiful colors. You'll see the freezing magic of Liquid Nitrogen. You'll even learn how to make Smoke appear like a genie out of a bottle in this amazing show about chemical reactions!

Let your creativity shine at our Sidewalk Chalk Art event, where kids can turn pavement into colorful masterpieces! All ages welcome—chalk provided!

Join Studio 360 dancers as they show little ones how to move their bodies for all kinds of dancing. This annual event is always a hit! (We will have a separate activity for ages 5 and up.)

Dive into creativity with our Shark Week Shrinky Dinks event! Kids can design, color, and shrink their own shark-themed charms and keychains to take home.

Let imaginations run wild as kids embark on an exciting journey to design and build their very own miniature pet houses!

Dancers from Studio 360 will join us to teach kids ages 5 and up some dance moves. Younger children are welcome to come in and play with other children in the children's area.

In this fun team activity, everyone will be given pages to color and decorate. There will be instructions on how to put it together, and when it's finished, we'll have a giant picture to hang!

Get ready to design, decorate, and fly your own custom frisbee! Kids will love this hands-on craft activity that ends with fun outdoor play.

Get creative with Perler Beads at this fun hands-on event! Kids can design and fuse their own colorful creations, from characters to patterns, and take home their unique masterpieces.

Friday, June 6 and July 11 at 2pm

Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Join us at the library for a morning of Pokémon fun. Complete a Pokémon activity, connect with fellow fans, and exchange trading cards to grow your collection. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your Pokémon journey, this event is perfect for Trainers of all ages.

The library’s huge Lego collection will be out for free play in the library conference room. Drop in for a little while or spend the whole hour building-it’s up to you!

Get crafty and create your very own portable Tic Tac Toe game set! Kids will enjoy making and decorating their boards to take the fun wherever they go.

Test your shark smarts at our Sharks Quiz Bowl! Kids can compete solo or in teams to answer fin-tastic trivia and earn bragging rights as Shark Week champions.

Think big at our Giant Sudoku Puzzle event! Kids can work together to solve oversized sudoku boards in a fun and interactive way that builds logic and teamwork.

Challenge your mind at our Chess and Checkers event, where kids can test their strategic skills in friendly matches with friends! Whether you're a beginner or a pro, there's fun for everyone.

Join us for a fun-filled Card Games event, where kids can play classic games like Go Fish, Crazy Eights, and more! It’s a great chance to make new friends and have a blast with family-friendly competition.

Friday, June 13

5:30-7:30pm

Get ready to turn the City Park parking lot into a masterpiece at Parking Lot Picasso—a colorful community chalk/sidewalk paint-art celebration on Friday June 13 from 5:30 - 7:30pm. Bring your imagination and your neighbors to this FREE, all-ages event where families, friends, and aspiring artists can transform ordinary parking spaces into extraordinary works of art.

Chalk and sidewalk paint will be provided at no cost—just bring your artistic flair. We’ve got 45 parking spaces ready to be claimed and covered in color. Whether you're a doodler, a dreamer, or the next Picasso, there’s a spot with your name on it.

Saturday, June 28

10:30am

Join us during the Freedom Festival Kids Bike Ride! The Ely Public Library will be in attendance and you can particiapte in a craft activity.

Friday, July 25

6pm

Join the Ely Fire Department for an exciting, hands-on event! See their life-saving equipment up close, learn valuable emergency procedures for the home, and cap off the day with an awesome blast from their water cannon!

Toddler Time features stories, rhymes, songs, and interactive activities designed to get babies and toddlers acclimated to loving the library. Big siblings are welcome to join the fun!

First, Third and Fifth Tuesdays at 10am: Yoga and Meditation

Join us for a peaceful and playful time designed just for children and their caregivers! Our Yoga & Stories sessions combine light stretching, mindful breathing, and calming storytime to help little ones relax, move, and imagine.

Second and Fourth Tuesdays at 10am: Sensory Friendly Story Time

Join us for a special Sensory-Friendly Story Time designed with neurodivergent children in mind but open to everyone! This event provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where children can enjoy stories and activities in a calm, structured setting. Maria along with her therapy dog, Mace, will begin every story time with a visual schedule of what to expect. Then they will read a story, do some form of interactive play, do a craft, and then read the story again.

Wed. June 11

10am

We will read some stories about chickens. Then the Schroeder family who lives here in Ely, will show us their pet chickens and ducks.

Wed. June 18

10am

Dan and Debbie's will help us celebrate National Dairy Month in June by telling us about their dairy farm, sharing stories about dairy farming, and bringing milk and cookies for us to enjoy.

Wed. June 25

10am

Ely's former Mayor and current City Administrator will join us to read some stories about towns and cities and will tell us more about his jobs in Ely.

10am

A friendly librarian will read everyone stories about the library, then give children a tour of the library and all of its fun features.

Wed. July 9

10am

Linn County Deputy Omar will join us to read stories and tell us about his job and ways we stay safe.

Wed. July 16

10am

Join us for a very special story time featuring guest reader Joe Winters, meteorologist and familiar face from the news! Joe will share some of his favorite books and talk a little about the weather. This fun and educational event is perfect for curious kids and families—come rain or shine! Don’t miss this chance to meet a real meteorologist and enjoy a cozy, weather-themed story time at the library.

Wed. July 23

10am

Local Hair Stylist Shauna Whitaker will share stories about hair with everyone, then do a demonstration about different things people can do with their own hair.

Wed. July 30

10am

Carol Thompson, an Ely City Council member and an employee with Solon State Bank, will share stories with children and tell them more about the jobs she does.

Come listen to stories, sing songs and make a craft! Preschool Story Time is intended for ages 3-5, but younger siblings are welcome to join the fun!

Thursday, June 19 10am

Join us for a story time about Juneteenth! All ages are welcome!

Explore the library’s STEAM products with free play on Fridays beginning at 10 a.m. This is an independent, exploratory time between parents and children; no librarians will be present for this event.

Join us for a special Sensory-Friendly Story Time designed with neurodivergent children in mind but open to everyone! This event provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where children can enjoy stories and activities in a calm, structured setting.

Maria along with her therapy dog, Mace, will begin every story time with a visual schedule of what to expect. Then they will read a story, do some form of interactive play, do a craft, and then read the story again.

What to Expect:

• Small Group Size: With limited spots available, each child will receive personalized attention, fostering a comfortable space to explore and engage. (We will repeat the event as many times as necessary to accommdate all)

• Interactive Storytelling: Dive into captivating stories with hands-on activities that encourage participation and imagination, ensuring every child can connect with the tales.

• Structured Play: After story time, children can enjoy carefully curated play activities that promote creativity and social interaction in a low-stimulation environment.

• Calm Atmosphere: Our dedicated space will be designed to minimize sensory overload, featuring soft lighting and quiet corners for relaxation.

• Meet Our Therapy Dog: A gentle therapy dog will be present to provide comfort and companionship, enhancing the overall experience and offering a soothing presence. Mace most recently worked as a classroom therapy dog and he loves having children around.

June 10 @3pm: Step by Step Painting Class- Registration Required

June 17:Bow and Arrow STEM Kit

June 24: Mini Collages with Tanager Place

July 1: Cars STEM Kit

July 8: Polymer Clay with Tanager Place

July 15: Boats STEM Kit

July 22: DIY Fairy Lantern

July 29: Planes STEM Kit

August 5: Wreck It With Tanager Place

Tuesday, June 10 at 3pm

Join an artist who will guide you, step by step, to paint a beautiful landscape with dragonflies. Please let the library know if you plan to attend so supplies can be ordered.

Tuesday, June 24 at 2pm

Come craft with us and create a mini collage! We'll have small canvases and all kids of collage materials available- stickers, magazines, scrapbook paper- whatever you need to make your very own masterpiece. We can't wait to see you there! Ages 11-18

Sunday, June 29 4-7pm

Celebrate Pride at the Ely Public Library! Make buttons, eat pizza, do other Pride themed crafts! Ages 13-18 are welcome!

Tuesday, July 8 at 2pm

Join us for an oven bake clay centered workshop! Together we will make earrings, fridge magnets, charms, or whatever your imagination desires! We can't wait to sculpt, paint, and glaze with you! Ages 11-18

Tuesday, August 5 at 2pm

Join us for an afternoon of creativity and fun! We will provide the materials, if you are willing to wreck them! See how your imagination will run wild by creating sculptures, collages, and destroying materials to make something new! Ages 11-18

Includes breaks and snacks!

Teens will learn to critically analyze TikTok content and create their own meaningful videos that tell stories or share information in engaging ways.

Teens will learn the basics of podcast production, from concept development to recording techniques, culminating in a collaborative mini-podcast episode.

Teens will create digital zines that combine text, images, and graphics to express their interests, concerns, or creative ideas.

Teens will explore principles of ethical journalism and apply them by creating short news pieces about local issues or events.

Teens will learn about AI art tools and the ethical considerations surrounding them, then create collaborative art pieces using AI tools and human creativity.

Teens will explore how video games can address social issues and create simple game concepts that incorporate positive messages or educational content.

Teens will create simple augmented reality experiences that reveal hidden stories about Ely’s history, culture, or community.

The Anxious Generation: Teens & Tech Wellness is a timely program exploring how smartphones and social media impact the mental health of today’s youth. Drawing on the latest research and real-world experiences, this event offers insights and practical strategies for fostering healthier tech habits in teens.

Celebrate the end of summer with a Teen Pizza Party! Enjoy free pizza, games, music, and a chance to hang out with friends before the new school year begins. Come hungry and ready for fun—it’s the perfect way to wrap up your summer break!

Thursdays at 2pm

Teens are welcome to try out our MetaQuest 2 VR headsets! We have 4 headsets available for teens to try out!

Friday, June 13

6pm

Presented by Katie Hopkins, Paranormal Investigator

Step into the unknown with "Visions from the Afterlife," an intriguing presentation that delves into the mysteries of what lies beyond. Explore compelling accounts of afterlife experiences, supernatural encounters, and the latest research into the "otherside". Through captivating stories and thought-provoking evidence, this presentation invites you to ponder the possibilities of the beyond. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, "Visions from the Afterlife" offers a thought-provoking journey into the realm of the supernatural, challenging your perceptions and sparking your curiosity about what it means to have "Visions of the Afterlife".

Friday, June 20

6pm

Join us for Lessons of the Holocaust, a powerful program that explores how understanding one of history’s darkest chapters can inspire kindness, empathy, and a more compassionate world. This event features an overview of the Holocaust's historical context alongside moving survival stories that highlight human resilience. Through reflection and education, we aim to honor the past and build a better future together.

Saturday, June 21 9-11am

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Dan Kramer will be doing a lecture and workshop on how to organize your clutter, thus organizing your life and mind.

Tuesday, July 22

7pm

Why bother with Ely history? Come find out at this engaging discussion on the powerful role historical preservation plays in shaping community identity and pride. Learn how saving artifacts, photos, and stories helps connect generations, attract visitors, and strengthen local culture. This adult-focused event invites you to explore why Ely’s past still matters—and how you can be a part of preserving it.

Every Thursday in June and July

7:30pm

Back by popular demand, Thirsty Thursday Trivia at House Divided Brewery, hosted by the Ely Public Library. Join in for fun facts, bonus puzzles, and locally brewed beer!

Mondays at 6pm

Gather at the library for Magic the Gathering in June! These events are intended for adults and older teens. All levels of experience welcome!

Mondays at 6pm

Gather at the library for Dungeons and Dragons in July! These events are intended for adults and older teens. All levels of experience are welcome! Registration here.

Tuesdays 5-7pm

Crafters are invited to bring your own crafts and socialize with other crafters.

Wednesdays from 6-8pm

Join us on Wednesday nights for Board Game fun! This time is geared towards adults, but all ages are welcome to participate. We will provide some fun new board games, or you can bring your own.

Join us as we peacefully discuss challenged and banned books. In person and on Zoom.

Zoom link

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays

8am and 1pm

This is a FREE health and wellness opportunity. Geri-Fit classes improve strength, balance and arthritic conditions for people 60 and over. Additional benefits include increasing flexibility, balance and mobility as well as helping prevent osteoporosis.

Tuesdays 8am

Come gather with Tom for a relaxing morning session of Tai Chi! Please consult your physician before beginning an exercise program. Zoom Link

Thursdays 8am

Paula is back with Morning Stretch on Thursday mornings. This group exercise will incorporate elements of yoga in a way that can be accommodated to any mobility level. Please bring your own yoga mat if possible as we have a limited number.

Hills Bank , New Leader Mfg. , Witwer Trust, Gateway Rotary, Friends of EPL,

House Divided Brewery, Harger’s Acoustics, Tanger Place, Solon State Bank, Krob's Elevator, Burger King, Orange Leaf, My Mom’s Bakery, Dan & Debbie's Creamery, Carlos O’Kellys, The Children’s Museum, Blank Park Zoo, Kernels, Texas Roadhouse, Casey's, Scooter’s, Red Robin, Farm Bureau, UNI, Ely Historical Society, A Home for Every Bunny