It seems that everyone knows that the Anchorage Public Library (http://www.anchoragelibrary.org) has lots of events for kids.
And we do. But did you know we offer a lot of events for adults as well? Some are one-offs, but we also have a roster of recurring programs for everyone. Come learn something new at the Library!
Location abbreviations: Loussac-LL; Chugiak-Eagle River-CE; Gerrish/Girdwood-GR; Mountain View-MV; Muldoon-MD.
Fiber Spinning (CE):
Have you ever wanted to spin your own yarn for knitting or crochet projects? Come learn how to spin! Spinners meet 10am-noon on the 3rd Saturday (usually) except summer and December by the magazines. If you want to try it with a borrowed spinning wheel, call ahead with your request.
Book Clubs (LL, GR, CE):
These are not your prescriptive book clubs, picking a single title for everyone to read. With these, you can read what you want. Loussac’s is the 2nd Tuesday from 6:30-8pm, but locations vary so check the APL website. Gerrish has their book club on the 3rd Wednesday from September through April. Loussac also has a traditional book club with a selected title each month; they meet the 3rd Saturday 3-4:30 except summer and December. CE is starting something new—a romance-specific book club for those who love a happily-ever-after. It meets on the 3rd Saturday at 3pm starting in September.
Movies (CE, GR, MV):
Gerrish has a movie night on the 1st Wednesday from October through April. MV has Mature Movie Matinee with films rated G to R. Children under 18 should have an adult with them. They show films on the 2nd or 3rd Saturday from 3-6pm. While CE shows movies each Friday 4-6pm, they are family-oriented and rated G/PG; adults are welcome to attend. Depending on the location, there may be popcorn and other snacks provided.
Listening Post (LL, MV):
This is an opportunity for a respectful, judgement-free ear when you need to talk. At Loussac, it is held in the Atrium each Thursday and Sunday 1:30-4:30pm. At MV, it runs almost continuously 11am-7pm every Wednesday.
Job Lab (LL, MV):
This is the place to get help writing a resume and applying for jobs. Loussac offers it on Wednesday 2-5pm in the Salmon Room. MV has it on Tuesday 2-5pm.
Folk Dancing (LL Atrium):
Irish folk dancing is offered the 2nd and 4th Monday 6:30-8pm. The Anchorage International Folk Dancers meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday 6-8pm. No experience or partner is necessary for either group, but you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes.
E-Book Essentials (LL-Moose Rm):
On the 2nd Thursday from 11am to noon, you can get assistance learning to use your device for ebooks and audiobooks. Bring your library card and PIN, your device, and any questions you have.
Medicare 101 Q&A (LL-WMT):
This one is offered quarterly on the 2nd Wednesday. A representative from the State of Alaska’s Medicare Information Office will provide information and answer questions to help navigate the Medicare maze.
Board Games (LL, MD, MV):
The Anchorage Board Gamers meet the 2nd and 4th Sundays 1-5pm in the Learning Commons at Loussac. There are other board and role-playing gaming opportunities offered at Muldoon and Mountain View, so check the APL website.
This is only a taste of what is available for recurring programming at your public library. For more event information, go to the APL website and click on Events in the top right corner. From there, you can choose the age group and general kind of program, or just view them all in our online calendar. And if there is an activity you’d like us to offer, feel free to suggest it. There’s a link for that too, so get busy at your library today!
Nancy Clark is a lifelong Alaskan raising her family in her hometown. She has more than 25 years’ experience as a librarian, and currently serves as manager of the Chugiak-Eagle River Branch of Anchorage Public Library. In her spare time, she reads, cooks, gardens, and writes fiction. To reach Nancy, email: clarkne@ci.anchorage.ak.us
