Beyond the Bookshelf

October is here, and with it comes cozy days, colorful leaves, and plenty of opportunities for young readers to explore, create, and connect. From hands-on programs to exciting new books, our Youth Services team has lined up activities that promote literacy, learning, and community for children and teens of all ages. Dive in and see what’s happening this month. We can’t wait to share the fun with you!

Our youth programs are popular, and we love getting to know the children, teens, and families who attend. Together, we’re promoting literacy, learning, and community, but funding for these programs is taking a hard hit.

Join us for one of our next Community Conversations to learn how libraries are funded, what’s at stake with new legislation, and how the Danville Library Foundation will help keep these programs thriving. Your voice and support can make a real difference.

Join us at the time that works best for your schedule.

• Monday, November 3 at 12:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, November 5 at 6:00 p.m.

The Acorn and the Oak Tree by Lori C. Froeb - Just in time for the upcoming fall season, this picture book follows a little acorn and his story of becoming a big, strong, oak tree. While the story is simple, complex ideas about personal growth and hardship intertwine with child-like whimsy in this endearing and gentle narrative.

As you welcome autumn, cozy up with this perfect family read!

Goosebumps: You Can't Scare Me! by R.L. Stine is the newest edition to the Goosebumps legacy! When Eddie has had enough of Courtney's showing off, he decides to pull the prank of a lifetime and really put a scare in her. And what better way to do that than to lure her into the jaws of a Mud Monster?

As the Halloween season approaches, this terrifying tale is sure to give any adventurous reader a fright!

We Could Be Magic by Marissa Meyer is a wholesome tale full of romance and wonder. This graphic novel follows Tabitha Laurie, a hopeless romantic who still believes in the magic of true love, as she pursues her dream of becoming a theme park princess in the enchanting Sommerland amusement park. However, in Sommerland, thin is the only kind of beauty accepted, and, no matter how much she believes in herself and the magic, she still doesn't fit their version of a princess.

This book is a perfect read for anyone who needs a reminder that, if you don't fit the standards of beauty, make your own standards! Our teen librarian, Rachel, gives this book 5/5 stars!

The Mysterious Virginia Hall by Claudia Friddel is a non-fiction masterpiece that captures the exciting and treacherous life of WWII spy, Virginia Hall, also known to her family as "Dindy." Through a chance encounter, Dindy becomes the Nazi regime's number one target as she fights for democracy and liberation across the globe. Follow along while the author unfolds the twisting secrets of WWII's "most dangerous spy" in a story perfect for readers of historical novels!

Exciting News! We’ve updated our web calendar and program registration system! We are now using LocalHop, which makes it easier than ever to find events you’ll love. You can filter programs by category, age group, or date range, all right on our website! Plus, you can create a personalized digest to receive updates tailored to your interests and age group.

To register for any of our upcoming programs you can:

• Visit dplindiana.org/events
• Stop by a reference desk at the library
• Call 317-745-2604

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@dplindiana) to stay up to date on all the exciting things happening at the library!

Back by Popular Demand — Kid-chella: Halloween Edition! Grab your costume and get ready to dance, groove, and boogie with us on Friday, October 10 at 5:00 p.m. Fun, music, and Halloween excitement await!

Spooky Science Fun! Join us Monday, October 20 at 4:00 p.m. for some hands-on Halloween experiments! Discover chemical reactions and watch what they can make your pumpkin do — fizz, foam, and maybe even 🤮!

Join us Wednesday, October 29 at 4:00 p.m. to whip up some spooky treats. We’ll be making Worms & Dirt pudding cups that are as creepy as they are delicious!

Story Squad: Mystery Awaits! Join the Story Squad on Wednesday, October 1 at 4:00 p.m. as we unravel The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane by Julia Nobel, a spine-tingling story full of secrets, suspense, and surprises around every corner!

This October, our Elementary Book Club is sinking its teeth into Vampires Don’t Wear Polka Dots by Debbie Dadey! Join Melvin, a young vampire trying to fit in at his new school, as he navigates friendship, funny mishaps, and spooky adventures. With humor, heart, and a little bit of fang-tastic fun, this story is sure to entertain readers of all ages. Join us on Monday, October 14 at 4:00 P.M. to discuss the book and enjoy themed activities!

Teens, Looking for Volunteer Hours? Make your voice heard and advocate for their library! Our new Teen Advisory Board will help shape future events, share ideas, and take action. Sign up today to get involved and earn volunteer hours!

Teens, dare to get a closer look at the world of the afterlife! Join us Tuesday, October 14 at 5:30 p.m. for a behind-the-scenes tour of a funeral home and discover what a day in the life of a mortician is really like… if you’re brave enough!

Meet at the library and we'll walk Helton and Harris Funeral Home together (across the street from the library).

Dive into Neil Gaiman’s Coraline, a darkly magical adventure full of mystery, courage, and a world that’s not quite what it seems. Join us for a discussion and enjoy a tasty treat inspired by the book on Tuesday, October 21 at 4:30 P.M. at the Danville Community High School Library. You're welcome to attend even if you're not a DCHS student. Enter through the main entrance, door 1 where a librarian will will greet you!

Teens, join us Thursday, October 30 at 5:00 p.m. for a cult classic vampire and werewolf movie! Play Bingo as iconic moments unfold and enjoy spooky-themed snacks and beverages. Don’t miss the fang-tastic fun!

We loved having Joel as our September Kid Librarian! It was so much fun seeing him come in to add books to his display as they were checked out — he was engaged and excited all month long.

Joel, age 8, has loved visiting the library since he was just 1 year old. His favorite books are the Big Nate series by Lincoln Peirce, and he especially loves the character Nate. He enjoys fiction the most, but outside of reading, Joel can often be found playing soccer, building with Legos, digging in the dirt, or exploring Lego video games. He’s also a fan of the AWE computer in the children’s room and the educational games it offers.

We had a blast having Joel as our September Kid Librarian!

Want to be a future Kid Librarian? Stop by the Youth Services Desk to fill out an application!

Do you follow us on Facebook and Instagram? We're very active on both platforms, and it's the best way to stay informed about all our upcoming events and programs. Plus, you'll get to know our library staff through fun and entertaining posts and videos. Don't miss out—follow us today to stay in the know and be a part of our vibrant online community!

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The Library will ensure its efforts, resources, and services

evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of a diverse community.

Monday through Thursday

9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Friday through Saturday

9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Sunday

Closed

101 South Indiana Street, Danville, IN, USA