Event List

Filters
Age Group

Drop In: Poem in Your Pocket Day

Monday, April 29, 2024 at 3:00pm - 7:00pm
East Side Children’s Area at East Side Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Drop by the library and immerse yourself in the beauty of poetry. Poem in Your Pocket Day is a celebration of poetry and creativity. Stop by and pick out a poem for yourself or cre

Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Children’s Area
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Event Details:
Drop by the library and immerse yourself in the beauty of poetry. Poem in Your Pocket Day is a celebration of poetry and creativity. Stop by and pick out a poem for yourself or create a new poem to take home in your pocket.  ...

Disclaimer(s)

Accompanying Adults

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

green and blue plaid background with text that reads Ivy and Bean the Musical

Ivy + Bean the Musical Sneak Preview

Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 10:30am - 11:00am
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Performances
Age Group:
Children, All Ages
Event Details:

Visit the library for a special sneak preview of the Des Moines Community Playhouse production of Ivy + Bean the Musical which is based on the series by Annie Barrows. Enjo

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, All Ages
Program Type: Performances
Event Details:
Visit the library for a special sneak preview of the Des Moines Community Playhouse production of Ivy + Bean the Musical which is based on the series by Annie Barrows. Enjoy the performance and enter to win free tickets to the play!  ...

Disclaimer(s)

Children’s Program

Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a caregiver over 12 years old.

The Mitchells vs. The Machines movie poster

Movie Watch Party: The Mitchells vs. The Machines

Monday, May 6, 2024 at 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Movies
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

We will eat popcorn and do a fun activity while we watch The Mitchells vs. The Machines (2021). Rated PG. 

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Movies
Event Details:
We will eat popcorn and do a fun activity while we watch The Mitchells vs. The Machines (2021). Rated PG.  ...
Big Book Sale

Big Book Sale

Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 9:00am - 5:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 at Central Library
Program Type:
Book Sales
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and do

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Book Sales
Event Details:
The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and donations from the community. Get everything for a steal at rock bottom ...
Big Book Sale

Big Book Sale

Thursday, May 9, 2024 at 9:00am - 5:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 at Central Library
Program Type:
Book Sales
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and do

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Book Sales
Event Details:
The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and donations from the community. Get everything for a steal at rock bottom ...
Big Book Sale

Big Book Sale

Friday, May 10, 2024 at 9:00am - 5:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 at Central Library
Program Type:
Book Sales
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, an

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Book Sales
Event Details:
The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and donations from the community. Get everything for a steal at rock bot...
Big Book Sale

Big Book Sale

Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10:00am - 5:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 at Central Library
Program Type:
Book Sales
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and do

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Book Sales
Event Details:
The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and donations from the community. Get everything for a steal at rock bottom ...
Big Book Sale

Big Book Sale

Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 at Central Library
Program Type:
Book Sales
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and do

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Book Sales
Event Details:
The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and donations from the community. Get everything for a steal at rock bottom ...
Big Book Sale

Big Book Sale

Monday, May 13, 2024 at 9:00am - 5:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2 at Central Library
Program Type:
Book Sales
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and do

Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Book Sales
Event Details:
The Big Book Sale is back! Stop by Central Library's meeting rooms, May 8-13, to stock up on books, CDs, DVDs, and more. The inventory includes withdrawn library items, and donations from the community. Get everything for a steal at rock bottom ...

Puzzle and Game Cafe

Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 11:00am - 1:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Gaming
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Love playing board games or putting together puzzles? Stop by the South Side Meeting Room to play a selection of provided board games and puzzles or invite a group and bring y

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Gaming
Event Details:
Love playing board games or putting together puzzles? Stop by the South Side Meeting Room to play a selection of provided board games and puzzles or invite a group and bring your own! Snacks will be provided. Best for those age 8 and up! ...

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

NFC's Journey to Homeownership

Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at 6:00pm - 8:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Join Bridgett Robinson, Neighborhood Finance Corporation’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Mortgage Loan Originator and Outreach Coordinator, along with community panelists, as they

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:
Join Bridgett Robinson, Neighborhood Finance Corporation’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Mortgage Loan Originator and Outreach Coordinator, along with community panelists, as they help navigate what Black/African American homeownership may look like...
Rectangle graphic of a Pride Flag including horizontal rainbow colors and an arrow on the left with white, pink, blue, brown, and black stripes

DIY Mini Pride Floats!

All Day 6/1 - 6/14
DMPL Virtual
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Celebrate Pride Month by making your own mini parade float! Starting Saturday, June 1, stop by any DMPL location to pick up a materials kit (while supplies last), then design yo

Library Branch: DMPL Virtual
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Take & Make
Event Details:
Celebrate Pride Month by making your own mini parade float! Starting Saturday, June 1, stop by any DMPL location to pick up a materials kit (while supplies last), then design your own float however you choose. Once you finish your float, snap a pi...
Graphic image of the logo of the Des Moines Metro Opera

Des Moines Metro Opera Previews The Barber of Seville and Salome

Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Performances
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Des Moines Metro Opera opens its 2024 season with two of the world’s greatest operas: Rossini’s famed comedy, The Barber of Seville, and Richard Strauss’s scandalous drama, Salome.

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Performances
Event Details:
Des Moines Metro Opera opens its 2024 season with two of the world’s greatest operas: Rossini’s famed comedy, The Barber of Seville, and Richard Strauss’s scandalous drama, Salome. Join DMMO Preview Lecturer, Joshua Borths, for an in-depth look at th...
Timothee Chalamet as Wonka

Movie Watch Party: Wonka

Monday, June 3, 2024 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Forest Avenue Meeting Room at Forest Avenue Library
Program Type:
Movies
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Experience the whimsical origin story of the famed chocolatier Willy Wonka! Join us for popcorn and a fun activity while we watch Wonka. Rated PG.

Library Branch: Forest Avenue Library
Room: Forest Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Movies
Event Details:
Experience the whimsical origin story of the famed chocolatier Willy Wonka! Join us for popcorn and a fun activity while we watch Wonka. Rated PG. ...
Book Cover "100 things to do in Des Moines before you die"

100 Things to do in Des Moines before you die BINGO

Monday, June 10, 2024 at 2:00pm - 3:00pm
East Side Meeting Room at East Side Library
Program Type:
Author Visits
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

The library welcomes Erin Huiatt, local author of the book “100 Things to Do in Des Moines Before You Die” for a special BINGO style program highlighting the Metro's top attraction

Library Branch: East Side Library
Room: East Side Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Author Visits
Event Details:
The library welcomes Erin Huiatt, local author of the book “100 Things to Do in Des Moines Before You Die” for a special BINGO style program highlighting the Metro's top attractions and hidden gems. This program is perfect for families looking for fu...

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Accompanying Adults

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

Graphic image of the logo of the Des Moines Metro Opera

Des Moines Metro Opera Previews American Apollo and Pelléas & Mélisande

Saturday, June 15, 2024 at 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Performances
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Des Moines Metro Opera Preview Lecturer Joshua Borths returns for an in-depth preview of the final two operas of the opera’s 2024 season: Debussy’s shimmering Impressionist opera,

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Performances
Event Details:
Des Moines Metro Opera Preview Lecturer Joshua Borths returns for an in-depth preview of the final two operas of the opera’s 2024 season: Debussy’s shimmering Impressionist opera, Pelléas & Mélisande, and the world premiere of Damien Geter and Li...

Puzzle and Game Cafe

Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 11:00am - 1:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Gaming
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Love playing board games or putting together puzzles? Stop by the South Side Meeting Room to play a selection of provided board games and puzzles or invite a group and bring y

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Gaming
Event Details:
Love playing board games or putting together puzzles? Stop by the South Side Meeting Room to play a selection of provided board games and puzzles or invite a group and bring your own! Snacks will be provided. Best for those age 8 and up! ...

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

NFC's Journey to Homeownership

Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 6:00pm - 8:00pm
South Side Meeting Room at South Side Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

Join Bridgett Robinson, Neighborhood Finance Corporation’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Mortgage Loan Originator and Outreach Coordinator, along with community panelists, as they

Library Branch: South Side Library
Room: South Side Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:
Join Bridgett Robinson, Neighborhood Finance Corporation’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Mortgage Loan Originator and Outreach Coordinator, along with community panelists, as they help navigate what Black/African American homeownership may look like...
A photo of Sarah Pratt and the butter cow

Learn to Sculpt Butter with Sarah Pratt!

Monday, July 29, 2024 at 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3 at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

We're gearing up for the state fair with a very special guest! Join special guest Sarah Pratt, the Iowa State Fair's butter sculptor, to talk about what it's like to sculpt

Required
Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Educational
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 35
Event Details:
We're gearing up for the state fair with a very special guest! Join special guest Sarah Pratt, the Iowa State Fair's butter sculptor, to talk about what it's like to sculpt the butter cow and to teach us how she does it! Each participant will...

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Accompanying Adults

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

Central Parking

Free library parking is available in Central's underground parking garage for two hours per visit. Parking around the library is metered at various costs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

Email Required

Please make sure you have entered a valid email address as the online event details will be sent to you prior to the event. If you have not received a confirmation email your inbox, please check your spam folder.

A photo of Sarah Pratt and the butter cow

Learn to Sculpt Butter with Sarah Pratt!

Monday, July 29, 2024 at 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3 at Central Library
Program Type:
Arts & Crafts, Educational
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

We're gearing up for the state fair with a very special guest! Join special guest Sarah Pratt, the Iowa State Fair's butter sculptor, to talk about what it's like to sculpt

Required
Library Branch: Central Library
Room: Central Library Meeting Room 1, 2, 3
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Educational
Registration Required
Seats Remaining: 35
Event Details:
We're gearing up for the state fair with a very special guest! Join special guest Sarah Pratt, the Iowa State Fair's butter sculptor, to talk about what it's like to sculpt the butter cow and to teach us how she does it! Each participant will...

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Accompanying Adults

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

Central Parking

Free library parking is available in Central's underground parking garage for two hours per visit. Parking around the library is metered at various costs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

Email Required

Please make sure you have entered a valid email address as the online event details will be sent to you prior to the event. If you have not received a confirmation email your inbox, please check your spam folder.

Holly Hallman

Summer Gardening Workshop

Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Franklin Avenue Meeting Room at Franklin Avenue Library
Program Type:
Educational
Age Group:
All Ages
Event Details:

This interactive workshop will be filled with presentations to expand your gardening knowledge and the opportunity to ask local experts any questions you have from your gardening j

Library Branch: Franklin Avenue Library
Room: Franklin Avenue Meeting Room
Age Group: All Ages
Program Type: Educational
Event Details:
This interactive workshop will be filled with presentations to expand your gardening knowledge and the opportunity to ask local experts any questions you have from your gardening journey so far.  Holly Hallman, volunteer and community garden...