

March 2025
Fun Events for All Ages!
Library Closed March 12 after 12pm for Staff Training
Meet Graphic Novel Artist Jason Platt
March 18
2pm
Join us at the Ely Public Library for a special visit from graphic novel artist Jason Platt! Jason Platt, the talented creator behind the Middle School Misadventures series, is coming to share his journey as an author and illustrator on Tuesday, March 18 at 2 pm.
He’ll talk about his books, his creative process, and what it takes to bring stories to life through comics and graphic novels. Plus, he’ll do a live drawing demonstration, giving you a front-row seat to see an artist in action!
This is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring young artists, comic lovers, and book fans alike to learn from a pro and get inspired. Don’t miss out on this fun and engaging event!
Linn County Master Gardener Presentations
March 4- Don't Toss That Orchid After it Blooms-- Think those beautiful orchids from the store are just too hard to keep and rebloom? Think again! With just a little knowledge and a few basic supplies you can enjoy those lovely tropical blossoms in your home year after year! And it's so worth it! In this demonstration workshop you'll gain new appreciation for these tropical beauties and learn how to care for and enjoy them year after year!
March 11- Winter Sowing in a Milk Jug-- Learn the easy, affordable way to start strong, healthy seedlings for your garden. Also, this is an excellent way to do a bit of gardening in the dead of the winter.
March 18- Simply Seeds-- Whether you are trying to save them or start them, knowledge of the many aspects of seeds is important. In this class we will go over everything you need to know about successfully using your seeds to your advantage. Also, learn how to get into contact with other seed savers and seed libraries.
March 25- Foodscaping: Creating Edible Landscapes-- Companion plants, water, soil and a patch of sunshine will create an edible landscape. Containers and integrating some edibles will not sacrifice the beauty of your space. Consider how to: start small, plant in the right place, and select the produce you like to eat. Your foodscape will benefit the environment for birds and pollinators as well.
U of I Collegium Quartet Performance
6:30 pm
Join us for a free tuba-euphonium quartet performance featuring family friendly Disney music. Univerisity of Iowa students who will be performing are Hazel Alldredge, Brett Tompkins, Nelson Cook and Tony Pelini.
Hope to see you there!
Bingo at the Ely Legion
Friday, March 14
7pm
You won't want to miss out on the fun! The Friends of the Ely Public Library will be hosting another BINGO fundraiser at the Ely Legion! Doors open at 6:30pm, games start at 7pm, and cards are $1 for 3 game boards. The bar will be open and snacks available for sale!
Bingo Dates: April 11
Friends of the Library Vacation Raffle
The Suites at Fall Creek
What: Family vacation! 2 Bedrooms, sleeps 6
When: Saturday, July 5 - July 12
Where: 1A Fall Creek Drive; Branson MO 65616
Why: To support the Friends and have some fun!
Raffle tickets $10 each or 3 for $25. Available for purchase at the Ely Public Library. Cash, check and Venmo accepted. Tickets will be sold March - June. Stop by the library for more details!
Note: you would be responsible for the resort fees (approx $100) and deposit.
Spring Break Events
Pokemon Card Trading
Monday, March 17
2pm
Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Join us at the library for an afternoon 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. Don’t forget your trading cards and enthusiasm—we’ll bring the fun! See you there for a Pokémon-filled adventure.
Meet Graphic Novel Artist Jason Platt
March 18
2pm
Join us at the Ely Public Library for a special visit from graphic novel artist Jason Platt! Jason Platt, the talented creator behind the Middle School Misadventures series, is coming to share his journey as an author and illustrator on Tuesday, March 18 at 2 pm.
He’ll talk about his books, his creative process, and what it takes to bring stories to life through comics and graphic novels. Plus, he’ll do a live drawing demonstration, giving you a front-row seat to see an artist in action!
This is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring young artists, comic lovers, and book fans alike to learn from a pro and get inspired. Don’t miss out on this fun and engaging event!
Rev Up for an Electrifying Event with Prairie Electric Car!
Wednesday, March 19
2pm
Join us at the City Hall Parking Lot on Wednesday, March 19 at 2:00 PM for a special Electric Car Demonstration by the Prairie High School Electric Car Club! Come see these talented students showcase their custom-built electric vehicles and learn about the exciting world of renewable energy and engineering.
They’ll share how they design, build, and race their electric cars, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the science and innovation that power these eco-friendly machines. This is a great opportunity for kids, teens, and car enthusiasts to see the future of transportation in action and ask questions about electric vehicles, engineering, and sustainability. Don’t miss this high-voltage event—it's sure to spark your curiosity!
Movie Showing: Moana 2
Thursday, March 20
2pm
Join us at the library for a special screening of Moana 2, newly released on DVD! Set sail on another exciting adventure with Moana and friends in this highly anticipated sequel.
Make & Taste Healthy Snacks with Healthy Heart Corps!
Friday, March 21
2pm
Get hands-on as we learn to make healthy snacks that are both tasty and good for you. The Healthy Heart Corps representative will guide us through simple, nutritious recipes that you can easily recreate at home. Plus, you’ll get to sample your creations and discover new flavors along the way! This is a great event for kids and families looking to learn more about healthy eating in a fun and interactive way. Don’t miss out—come hungry for knowledge and a tasty treat!
Teen Events
DIY Fairy Light Lantern
Thursday, March 20
6pm
Teens ages 12 and up are invited to join us at the Ely Public Library on Thursday, March 20 at 6:00 PM to make theiry own Fairy Light Lantern. Supplies will be provided and space is limited. Register here or by calling 848-7616.
Adult Events
HeartCorps Hands-Only CPR Class
Thursday, March 6
6pm
Join HeartCorps for a life-saving Hands-Only CPR training session! In just a short time, you’ll learn the essential skills to take action during a cardiac emergency. This interactive class will teach you how to recognize cardiac arrest, perform effective chest compressions, and respond confidently in a crisis—no mouth-to-mouth required.
Whether you're a concerned family member, community member, or just someone who wants to be prepared, this training is open to all. No prior experience is needed! (Note: this is not a CPR certification class)
Try Out Our VR Headsets
Friday, March 14
2pm
Come try out our VR Headsets! We have all sorts of games, travel activities, and exercise programs that we would love for you to experience. (Note: the devices can be used independently in the library any time we're open.)
Crochet 101
Saturday, March 15 and 22
12pm-3pm
Have you ever wanted to learn how to crochet? Now is your chance! We will be making the Magic Trivet pattern as our first project. Two class sessions available, 8 registration spots available in each class.
Chatty Crafters
Tuesdays 5-7pm
Crafters are invited to bring your own crafts and socialize with other crafters.
Blood Drive
Wednesday, March 26
3-6pm
Call 319-848-7616 or email sarah@elyiowa.com to set up an appointment. Limited walk-in appointments available.
Banned Book Club
Thursday, March 27
7pm
Join us as we peacefully discuss challenged and banned books. In person and on Zoom.
This month we will be discussing "Identical" by Ellen Hopkins
April 24: The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
May 23: The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
Early Childhood Literacy
Toddler Time
Mondays 10am
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!
Preschool Story Time
Thursdays 10am
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!
Sensory Friendly Storytime
Saturday, March 22
10am
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.
Exercise
GeriFit
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.
Tai Chi
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
Morning Stretch
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.
Library Meetings
Library Board Meeting
Wednesday, March 5
7pm
The Library Board of Trustees typically holds meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Ely Public Library. The public is welcome to attend in person or via Zoom.
Friends of the Library Meeting
Wednesday, March 12
7:30pm
We are looking for some good friends to help us plan some fun upcoming programs! We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month @ 7:30pm. Join us and learn how you can be involved!
NEW to Our Library: Kanopy!
Introducing Kanopy - a new streaming service provided for Ely and Rural Linn County Residents. Stop by today for a demonstration!
Vox Books
Vox Books are books that talk! Combining audiobooks with traditional books, Vox Books read the story to you as you follow along. Our library has picture books, graphic novels, and middle grade chapter books of amazing stories!
NEW! Privacy Booth
Thanks to a grant from Libraries Transforming Communities, we were able to purchase and now install a privacy booth in the library! It comfortably fits 2-4 people and is a perfect quiet space for everyone. Call us at 319-848-7616 or email rachel@elyiowa.com to reserve time in the booth. We also accept walk-in use as long as there are no current reservations.
Ely Seed Lending Library
The Ely Public Library is open and that means our seed lending library is available for self service. Free garden seeds are available and you simply sign out the number of seeds you take. We do take seed packet donations .