Library

Presentation- Bomb City USA: The Danny Greene Era

Presentation by Dennis Sutcliffe

Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

After being expelled from Collinwood High School, St. Ignatius and the Boy Scouts during a troubled childhood, Danny Greene went on to become the Irish-American gangster known as “The Irishman.” He and John Nardi tried to muscle in on the Cleveland Mob’s operations during the 1970’s which began a bloody mob war that left Cleveland with the moniker “Bomb City, USA!”  Presenter Dennis Sutcliffe is a local author and historian, well-known for his Lost Cleveland Memories program, but his biggest mission has become raising awareness and funds for the rare disorder, ataxia-telangiectasia.

Film- Alfred Hitchcock: Capping a Career-

"Marnie" (1964) 

Presented by Terry Meehan

Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. (130 minutes)

Main Library Auditorium

Pre-school Story Time

For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler. This pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. No registration is required.

Main Library:

Tuesdays: October 10- October 31, 2023

10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Wednesdays: October 11- November 1, 2023

11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Madison Branch:

Thursdays: October 12- November 2, 2023

10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Pre-school Story Time

For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler. This pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. No registration is required.

Main Library:

Tuesdays: September 12- October 31, 2023

10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Wednesdays: September 13- November 1, 2023

11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Madison Branch:

Thursdays: September 14- November 2, 2023

10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Lakewood Public Library has won the Northeast Ohio Parent 2023 Parent Choice Award for Best Library. Available both online and in print, Northeast Ohio Parent gathers the opinions of local parents to find family-friendly places and events in Northeast Ohio. Readers and online followers can vote for their favorite places and services.

Lakewood Public Library was praised for its wide variety of unique extended learning opportunities, as the Library offers story times, camps, literacy programs, book clubs, tutoring, homework help, and special family-friendly performances. Lakewood Public Library also partners with Connecting for Kids, which provides education, resources and support to families.

Stop in at the Main Library, 15425 Detroit Ave., or the beautifully-renovated Madison Branch, 13229 Madison Ave, to see what makes our library uniquely wonderful.

Lakewood Public Cinema - "The Birds" (Alfred Hitchcock, 1963)

Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

A San Francisco socialite (Tippi Hedren) arrives in Bodega Bay with a gift of exotic caged birds to amuse her beau (Rod Taylor). He appreciates the gesture, but the birds of Bodega are having none of it; not since Poe’s Raven have our feathered friends seemed so ominous. According to the Master, “The Birds could be the most terrifying motion picture I have ever made.” Terry Meehan concludes his series, Hitchcock’s Best (1958-1963), introducing each film with an original video followed by audience reaction and a lively discussion.

Lakewood Public Cinema - "Dangerous" (1935)    

Directed by Alfred E. Green

Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. (78 minutes)

Main Library Auditorium

Joyce Heath (Bette Davis) is a fading actress turned alcoholic until wealthy architect Don Bellows (Franchot Tone) rescues her. Joyce rehabilitates in the home of her adoring benefactor, who is unaware that she is married. When her vindictive husband Gordon (John Eldredge) gets involved, Joyce begins to believe she is bad luck to the men in her life. Barbara Steffek-Hill presents a series of classic and contemporary films from her personal favorites.

Are you struggling to make sense of your new laptop? Do you want to brush up on Microsoft Word or Excel? Maybe you are job hunting and want to improve your job search skills. There’s no need to register for a class, or ask that tech-savvy and long-suffering friend for help again, because Northstar Digital Literacy is now available at Lakewood Public Library. 

Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.

Main Library- Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Madison Branch- Fridays at 10:30 a.m.

Tail Waggin’ Tutors

Saturday, August 12, 2023, 11:00am - 12:30pm in the Main Library Multipurpose Room

For School-Age Children

Your child can bone up on their reading skills during a one-on-one session in a dog-friendly atmosphere. Students can practice reading with one of the dogs and owners that have been certified through Therapy Dogs International, an organization dedicated to regulating, testing and registering therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers. Reading to a therapy dog can provide comfort, support and happiness for self-conscious readers. No registration is required.

 Meet the Author: Literary Cleveland Presents...

Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

This program is the kick-off to a series of introductory writing courses for emerging writers in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and publishing led by the featured authors.  

Learn about the process of finishing a manuscript, how publishing works for poets, fiction writers, and nonfiction writers, and ways to get your own writing out into the world.

Accomplished local writers and Literary Cleveland instructors will share their behind-the-scenes journeys, growing their projects from big ideas to marketable books in the tough climate of modern publishing.

Meet the Author: Intro to Poetry Writing

Wednesday, August 9, 2023 from 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

In this introductory workshop, we will explore and discover how poems are generated, crafted, and refined. We will read and discuss example poems and engage with writing prompts that will surprise and inspire the imagination. Expect to be delightfully nudged out of your usual habits with language and discover yourself as a poet in the process. 

The Wonderful World of Bubbles

For the Whole Family

This is a laugh out loud comedy show for all ages. See bubbles that change shape and watch bubbles that walk a tight rope. Square bubbles? You bet! See so much more when the "Bubble Lady" performs with bubbles of all sizes! No registration is required.

Friday, July 28, 2023, 3:00pm - 4:00pm in the Main Library Multipurpose Room

Youthbiz Academy! A Cuyahoga READS Program

Join us at Lakewood Public Library's Madison Branch for Youthbiz Academy! This program is in coordination with the Cuyahoga Reads Initiative. Youthbiz Academy is designed for students in upper elementary and middle school. This entrepreneurship program is designed to equip youth with the skills needed to do an elevator speech, create and design a business logo, and write a small business plan all while competing for a cash prize! Registration is required.

Check out the website: Cuyahoga Reads

Tuesday, July 25, 2023, 4:00pm - 5:00pm in the Madison Branch Youth Program Room

Teen Robotics Camp

Lakewood Public Cinema - Hitchcock on Television

Find Your Voice and Be Heard: From Zero to Hero

For the Whole Family

You will love our Zero to Hero show with Mr. Zap. Learn what traits make a good friend, how to deal with bullies and much more. See real magic as solid rings link together. See how our actions reflect everyone around us as cloths change color before your eyes. See the smallest child turn into a "real life Super Hero." Laugh and giggle with Zap's puppet friends and much more. No registration is required.

Friday, July 14, 2023 3:00pm - 4:00pm in the Main Library Multipurpose Room

Youthbiz Academy! A Cuyahoga READS Program

Join us at Lakewood Public Library's Madison Branch for Youthbiz Academy! This program is in coordination with the Cuyahoga Reads Initiative. Youthbiz Academy is designed for students in upper elementary and middle school. This entrepreneurship program is designed to equip youth with the skills needed to do an elevator speech, create and design a business logo, and write a small business plan all while competing for a cash prize! Registration is required.

Check out the website: Cuyahoga Reads

Tuesday, July 25, 2023, 4:00pm - 5:00pm in the Madison Branch Youth Program Room

The Wonderful World of Bubbles

For the Whole Family

This is a laugh out loud comedy show for all ages. See bubbles that change shape and watch bubbles that walk a tight rope. Square bubbles? You bet! See so much more when the "Bubble Lady" performs with bubbles of all sizes! No registration is required.

Friday, July 28, 2023 3:00pm - 4:00pm in the Main Library Multipurpose Room

Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.

Local author Vivien Chien is a lifelong Clevelander with a national following of cozy mystery lovers.

Her Noodle Shop Mystery series follows heroine Lana Lee as she works at her family’s Ho-Lee Noodle House in Cleveland while attempting to solve the murder cases that seem to follow her wherever she goes.

Vivien Chien will visit Lakewood Public Library on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. to discuss "Misfortune Cookie," the ninth and latest installment of the series as part of our Meet the Author program.

The author will also discuss her passion for writing and what it's like to write from the viewpoint of a mixed race protagonist. Get an inside look at creating a sustainable cast of characters, establishing a setting with many working pieces, and what's coming next for Lana Lee.

The program takes place in the Main Library Auditorium at 15425 Detroit Avenue. After questions and answers, books will be available for sale and signing.

Nineteen women set sail on the Mayflower in 1620. After a year in the new world, only five were still alive. One of them was Mary Brewster. 

Author Kathryn Haueisen will visit Lakewood Public Library on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. to discuss “Mary Brewster’s Love Life,” a historical fiction biography based on the life of the woman who became known as the “Matriarch of the Mayflower.”

Mary Brewster and her husband, Elder William Brewster, belonged to a Separatist group who broke away from the Established Church of England. Fleeing from the persecution of King James for years, their decision to start a colony of likeminded believers in the New World promised a freedom they could only dream about, but it came with danger and loss as well.

Writer Kathryn Haueisen is a great-granddaughter back twelve generations of Mary Brewster. She is also a speaker, former pastor and the author of seven books, many articles and several publications. Books will be available for sale and signing at the event.

Jungle Terry and Friends Traveling Zoo

Pre-school Story Time For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler

This pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. 
Main Library- Tuesdays, June 13- July 18, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Wednesdays, June 14- July 19, 2023 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Thursdays, June 15- July 20, 2023 
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Just Baby 'N Me For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby

Meet the Author – "Akron’s Infamous Escort Case"

Book by Jane Bond

Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

“Operation Red Light” was launched by a special unit to investigate two escort services in Akron. "Akron’s Infamous Escort Case" is the true story of a crime investigation that destroyed careers, ruined reputations, broke up marriages, led to allegations of police corruption and challenged the justice system. Author Jane Bond is the former judge who presided over this complex case in the late 1990’s which has left many unanswered questions and the murder of a young woman still unsolved. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Lakewood Public Cinema - "Psycho" (Alfred Hitchcock, 1960)

Saturday, June 10, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

A real estate office worker (Janet Leigh) has been entrusted with an envelope full of cash to take to the bank. She takes the forty grand, and then takes it on the lam. On the way to meet her boyfriend, she stops at a roadside motel. After a friendly chat with the weirdly amiable clerk (Anthony Perkins), she begins to have second thoughts. She decides to come clean and return the money. There’s nothing like a nice shower to wash away the guilt. Terry Meehan continues his series, Hitchcock’s Best (1958-1963), introducing each film with an original video followed by audience reaction and a lively discussion.

All Together Now Summer Reading Club

For all Children and Youth Up to Those Entering Twelfth Grade
Age appropriate goals include thirty books for our youngest children, ten hours for elementary school students and thirty hours for middle school and high school students, broken down into manageable parts to enable all readers to complete their goal. Readers may participate online and/or in person and must visit the Library to collect rewards. Finishers receive a certificate of completion and a new book to keep. Registration is required.

Friday, May 12, 2023 through Monday, August 14, 2023
Main Library and Madison Branch

Build A Bear Story Time

For Students entering Kindergarten through Second Grade
A special inclusive themed story time where students will make their own stuffed rainbow teddy bear, name their teddy bear and receive an adoption certificate. Registration is required. 
Wednesday, June 7, 2023, 11:00am - 12:00pm , Main Library Activity Room 
Thursday, June 8, 2023 / 11:00am - 12:00pm / Madison Branch Children's Program Room

Madison Branch Teen Robotics Camp

All Together Now Summer Reading Club

For all Children and Youth Up to Those Entering Twelfth Grade. Age appropriate goals include thirty books for our youngest children, ten hours for elementary school  students and thirty hours for middle school and high school students, broken down into manageable parts to enable all readers to complete their goal. Readers may participate online and/or in person and must visit the Library to collect rewards. Finishers receive a certificate of completion and a new book to keep. Registration is required.

Friday, May 12, 2023 through Monday, August 14, 2023
Main Library and Madison Branch

Tail Waggin' Tutors

For School-Age Children. Your child can bone up on their reading skills during a one-on-one session in a dog-friendly atmosphere. Students can practice reading with one of the dogs and owners that have been certified through Therapy Dogs International, an organization dedicated to regulating, testing and registering therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers. Reading to a therapy dog can provide comfort, support and happiness for self-conscious readers. No registration is required.
Saturday, May 13, 2023, 11:00am - 12:30pm, Main Library Multipurpose Room. 

Meet the Author – "Skin Over Milk"

Book by Sara Chansarkar
Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.
Main Library Auditorium
In a culture where boys are adulated and girls are killed in the womb, three Muslim sisters snatch moments of light and joy to survive from one day to another in the novella, "Skin Over Milk." Author Sara Chansarkar will discuss the story of quiet, resilient feminism where women find agency and grit to alter the lives of daughters and sisters while doing their course of duty in 1990’s India. Books will available for sale and signing at this event.


Film -- "A Struggle for Home: The Crimean Tatars" (2016)

Sunday, May 7, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.
Main Library Auditorium
The Russian Empire conquered the Crimean peninsula in 1783. Since then, the Tatars have struggled to reclaim their home and have suffered ethnic and religious persecution. When the Soviet Union collapsed, many Tatars thought they finally would be free and secure in their homeland, Ukraine. In February 2014, those dreams were dashed when Russia re-annexed the peninsula. 

All Together Now Summer Reading Club

For all Children and Youth Up to Those Entering Twelfth Grade

Age appropriate goals include thirty books for our youngest children, ten hours for elementary school students and thirty hours for middle school and high school students, broken down into manageable parts to enable all readers to complete their goal. Readers may participate online and/or in person and must visit the Library to collect rewards. Finishers receive a certificate of completion and a new book to keep. Registration is required.
Friday, May 12, 2023 through Monday, August 14, 2023
Main Library and Madison Branch

Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.
Main Library- Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Fridays at 10:30 a.m. 

To sign up for any program, register online at lakewoodpubliclibrary.org/youth or call (216) 226-8275, ext. 140.

Film- Signs of Humanity (2016)

Presented by Director Willie Baronet

Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

Over the years, artist and professor Willie Baronet has purchased thousands of signs created by people living on the streets. In 2014, Baronet and three other filmmakers went on a cross-country trip and interviewed more than 100 people. "Signs of Humanity" is a documentary about this trip that explores homelessness, compassion, humanity and the idea of home.

Join filmmaker Willie Baronet as he leads us in the screening of his film presented in collaboration with One Community Reads.

Meet the Author - "Hidden History of Cleveland Sports"

Book by Marc Bona

Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. 

Main Library Auditorium 

Cleveland sports history goes well beyond The Shot, The Fumble, The Drive and so many other ignoble moments. Many of the city's most illustrious sports tales are long-forgotten chapters of tribulations and tragedy, of fleeting fame and enduring milestones. From basketball to boxing, hockey to Heisman, journalist Marc Bona chronicles more than a century of unremembered tales. Bona is a features writer for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Pre-school Story Time

For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler
This pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. 
Main Library- Tuesdays, April 4- April 25, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Wednesdays, April 5- April 26, 2023 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Thursdays, April 6- April 27, 2023 
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Just Baby 'N Me

For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby
Just Baby 'N Me is a lap-sit story time ideal for babies from birth through early walkers. The focus is on rhymes, songs, finger plays and exploring short books together. Registration is required. 
Wednesdays, April 5- April 26, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
6:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. 
Thursdays, April 6- April 27, 2023 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Pre-school Story Time: For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler

This pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. 
Main Library- Tuesdays, April 4- April 25, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Wednesdays, April 5- April 26, 2023 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Thursdays, April 6- April 27, 2023 
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Just Baby 'N Me: For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby

Just Baby 'N Me is a lap-sit story time ideal for babies from birth through early walkers. The focus is on rhymes, songs, finger plays and exploring short books together. Registration is required. 
Wednesdays, April 5- April 26, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
6:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. 
Thursdays, April 6- April 27, 2023 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Booked for Murder Book Club

Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Meeting Room   

If you share a passion for mystery, join the group each month to discuss your favorites and selections made by group members.

March 16, 2023 "Daisy Darker" by Alice Feeney

Knit & Lit Book Club

Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Meeting Room

Come share your passion for great literature and show off your knitting, crocheting, counted cross-stitch, embroidery and quilting works-in-progress.

March 21, 2023 "Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo

Meet the Author – "The Seeds of Greatness are Within You"

Book by Wayne Dawson

Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

Pre-school Story Time

For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler
This pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. Registration is required. 
Main Library- Tuesdays, March 7- March 28, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Wednesdays, March 8- March 29, 2023 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Thursdays, March 9- March 30, 2023 
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Just Baby 'N Me

For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby
Just Baby 'N Me is a lap-sit story time ideal for babies from birth through early walkers. Registration is required. 
Wednesdays, March 8- March 29, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
6:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. 
Thursdays, March 9- March 30, 2023 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Ukrainian Folk Tales and Craft

For Students in Kindergarten through Second Grade. Do you like stories about animals? Ukrainian folk tales and fairy tales often use animals to show us how we can succeed with the challenges life brings us and encourage us to never give up! Join us as we read The Ear of Wheat, retold and illustrated by Olha Tkachenkoa and create a piece of Ukrainian art. Registration is required.

Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm- Main Library Activity Room

Ukrainian Pysanky

For Students in Third through Fifth Grade. Ukrainian Pysanky is a beautiful tradition of decorating eggs, an art form that dates back centuries. Eggs are decorated using the wax-resist (batik) method and covered in stunning folk art motifs. Join Linda Hubert, a professional Ukrainia Pysanky artist, and make your own Pysanky. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required.

Wednesday, February 22, 2023- 4:00pm - 6:30pm- Main Library Activity Room

Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.

Connecting for Kids will be hosting two, free programs during the month of February at the Lakewood Public Library.

Behavior Chat: Strategies to Ease Transition
Do you want strategies to motivate your child toward positive behavior? Join Ochanya McRoberts-Wells, MEd, who will lead a discussion guided by your questions on a variety of behavior topics. Submit your questions before or during the session and learn how to use the tools in our Behavior Toolkit to help your child. Each session will focus on a new behavior tool, but questions on any behavior concern are welcome. The content in this program is geared toward caregivers of children ages 18 months - 6 years (with or without developmental concerns). Each attendee will receive a free Behavior Toolkit. For more information, visit connectingforkids.org/behavior-chat
Thursday, February 2, 6:30 p.m.

Music Therapy & More
This program is designed for families and their children, ages 0 - 6 years, who are struggling in an area of development. Join us for a hands-on program designed to teach families how to use music to improve their child's academic, motor, communication and social skills as well as behavior. This program is led by a Board-Certified Music Therapist. For more information visit connectingforkids.org/music.
Saturday, February 18, 9:30 am

Both of these programs will be held at the Lakewood Public Library, Main Branch, 15425 Detroit Rd., Registration is required at connectingforkids.org/register.

Lakewood Public Cinema – A Special Preview of the Short. Sweet. Film Fest.

Saturday, February 4, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Main Library Auditorium
Join us at Lakewood Public Library for a Special Preview of the Short. Sweet. Film Fest, Cleveland's greatest film festival showcasing exclusively short films. From local sensations to international masterpieces, we'll be featuring 90 minutes of our sweetest selections spanning genres for all palates. Come whet your appetite and get ready for the main event with us! 

Meet the Author - "Uncultured" Co-authored by Brandi Larsen

Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.
Main Library Auditorium
UNCULTURED tells the powerful story of trauma, identity, and the dangers of unchecked group mentality. From a childhood in the notorious Children of God cult to serving in the US Army on deliberate ground combat missions, Daniella Mestyanek Young has navigated male-dominated groups that, though worlds apart, share chilling similarities. Brandi Larsen, co-writer of the critically acclaimed UNCULTURED, will talk about the writing process, the book, and the questions readers ask about their own safety in groups. Larsen’s work at Penguin Random House helped create NYT bestsellers and her journalism pieces earned Emmy nominations. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Booked for Murder Book Club

Sunflowers!

Help the Library grow a sunflower (paper) garden. The Library will create a garden inside of the Library as a visual tribute to Ukrainian people. Sunflowers are a Ukrainian symbol of peace. Create one sunflower for the Library’s sunflower garden and one to take home. Display your sunflower at home and brighten everyone’s days! Registration is required. 
Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm- Main Library 
Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 4:00pm-5:00pm- Madison Branch

Ukrainian Folk Tales and Craft

For Students in Kindergarten through Second Grade. Do you like stories about animals? Ukrainian folk tales and fairy tales often use animals to show us how we can succeed with the challenges life brings us and encourage us to never give up! Join us as we read The Ear of Wheat, retold and illustrated by Olha Tkachenkoa and create a piece of Ukrainian art. Registration is required. 
Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Ukrainian Folk Tales and Craft

For Students in Kindergarten through Second Grade. Do you like stories about animals? Ukrainian folk tales and fairy tales often use animals to show us how we can succeed with the challenges life brings us and encourage us to never give up! Join us as we read Sirko, retold and illustrated by Olha Tkachenkoa and create a piece of Ukrainian art. Registration is required. 
Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm 

Sunflower Embossing

For Students in Sixth through Twelfth Grade. Sunflowers are a Ukrainian symbol of peace and a national symbol of the country of Ukraine. Tooling and embossing are types of metal art perfect for beginning to proficient artists. Creating raised and depressed surfaces is embossing. Create a sunflower by embossing a sunflower design on metal. After an image is indented onto the copper sheet, it’s painted with black paint. Once the paint dries, students rub the surface with a plastic scouring pad. This only removes paint from the higher areas of the image and gives the metal sheet a deeper and more textured look. Registration is required
Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm 
Friday, January 13, 2023 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Tissue Paper Sunflowers

Pre-school Story Time: For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler

This four-week pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. Register once for all four weeks. 
Main Library- Tuesdays, January 3- January 24, 2023
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Wednesdays, January 4- January 25, 2023
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Thursdays, January 5- January 26, 2023
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Just Baby 'N Me: For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby

Just Baby 'N Me is a four-week lap-sit story time ideal for babies from birth through early walkers. The focus is on rhymes, songs, finger plays and exploring short books together. Registration is required. Register once for all four weeks.
Mondays, January 2- January 23, 2023
6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 
Wednesdays, January 4- January 25, 2023 
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
6:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. 
Thursdays, January 5- January 26, 2022
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Pajama Party: For You and Your 2 to 6 Year-Old Child
Make the Library a part of your bedtime routine with an evening story time. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas and bring their stuffed animal friends to snuggle. Join us as we wind down for the night. This four-week story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your children will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. Register once for all four weeks.
Tuesdays, January 3- January 24, 2023
6:00-6:30 p.m.

Please join us for our first two Meet the Author programs of 2023!

Meet the Author- Color Capital of the World: Growing Up with the Legacy of a Crayon Company
Book by John Kropf 
Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.
Main Library Auditorium 
Following the Civil War, three entrepreneurial families formed the American Crayon Company in Sandusky, Ohio. Color Capital of the World shares the story of the crayon while tracing the cycle of build, boom, and bust. Author John Kropf works as an attorney in the Washington, DC area but was born and raised in Northern Ohio. He is the author of Unknown Sands and his writing has appeared in numerous publications. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Pre-school Story Time:For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler

This four-week pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. Register once for all four weeks.

Main Library- Tuesdays, January 3- January 24, 2023
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Wednesdays, January 4- January 25, 2023
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Madison Branch- Thursdays, January 5- January 26, 2023
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Just Baby 'N Me: For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby

Just Baby 'N Me is a four-week lap-sit story time ideal for babies from birth through early walkers. The focus is on rhymes, songs, finger plays and exploring short books together. Registration is required. Register once for all four weeks.
M

Meet the Author- "Christmas in Cleveland"

Book by Alan Dutka

Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium 

Many Clevelanders recall the Sterling-Lindner Christmas trees, shopping at the Twigbee Shop and visits with Mr. Jingeling. Local author Alan Dutka will share fond recollections of bygone holiday seasons. Alan Dutka has authored nine books on Cleveland history and has made multiple media appearances. This program is presented in partnership with the Lakewood Historical Society. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Meet the Author- "The Storytelling Code: 10 Simple Rules to Shape and Tell a Brilliant Story"

Book by Dana Norris 

Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium 

Master the art of storytelling using ten rules to help shape your story and share it confidently. Whether you’re practicing job interview skills or giving a wedding speech, local author Dana Norris provides help on crafting a narrative and building public speaking skills. Dana Norris is the founder of Story Club, a monthly storytelling show. Her work has been featured in cleveland.com, Cleveland Scene, the Chicago Tribune, and others. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Celebrate! Paper Flower Crowns

Main Library- Tuesday, December 6, 2022, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Madison Branch- Thursday, December 8, 2022, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
For Students in First through Sixth Grades.
This is the season for celebrations. Get in a festive mood and crown yourself with a beautiful crown made of paper flowers that you make yourself. Paper flower crowns are called vinok in Ukraine and include streamers falling off the back of the crown. Your own paper flower garland to wear around your head, including streamers, will put you in a festive mood. Registration is required. Register online at lakewoodpubliclibrary.org/youth or call (216) 226-8275, ext. 140.

Smiling Sunflowers for Little Ones

Main Library- Wednesday, December 7, 2022, 10:30am - 11:15am
Madison Branch- Thursday, December 8, 2022, 10:30am - 11:15am,
For You and Your 2-to-6-Year-Old Child

Dear Ukraine: Ukrainian Folk Tales and Craft

Wednesday, November 9, 2022, 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 
Main Library Activity Room
For Students in Kindergarten through Second Grade
Do you like stories about animals? Ukrainian folk tales and fairy tales often use animals to show us how we can succeed with the challenges life brings us and encourage us to never give up! Join us October 12 as we read "The Cat and the Rooster" by Ivan Malkovych and create our own piece of Ukrainian art. Registration is required. Register online at lakewoodpubliclibrary.org/youth or call (216) 226-8275, ext. 140.

Sunflower Garden for Ukraine

Mondays through Thursdays, October 10, 2022 through November 17, 2022 
from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Main Library Activity Room and Madison Branch Children’s Program Room
For you and your pre-school child. Sunflowers are a Ukrainian symbol of peace. Help the Library grow a paper sunflower garden as a visual tribute to Ukrainian people. Create one sunflower craft for the Library’s sunflower garden and one to take home. A different sunflower craft will be offered each week. No registration is required.

Sunflower Scavenger Hunt: For All Ages

October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022
Main Library and Madison Branch

Sunflower Garden for Ukraine

Mondays through Thursdays, October 10, 2022 through November 17, 2022 
from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Main Library Activity Room and Madison Branch Children’s Program Room
For you and your pre-school child. Sunflowers are a Ukrainian symbol of peace. Help the Library grow a paper sunflower garden as a visual tribute to Ukrainian people. Create one sunflower craft for the Library’s sunflower garden and one to take home. A different sunflower craft will be offered each week. No registration is required.

Sunflower Scavenger Hunt: For All Ages
October 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022
Main Library and Madison Branch
Sunflowers have long been a beloved symbol of Ukraine and now are a symbol of peace throughout the world. Learn interesting facts about this beautiful flower as you find pictures of sunflowers placed throughout the Main Library and Madison Branch. Submit your completed scavenger hunt form to enter a drawing for a prize. No registration is required.

Jim Kleefeld's Spooky Magic Show
Friday, October 21, 2022 / 6:00pm - 7:00pm 
Main Library Multipurpose Room 
For the Whole Family This spooky show is fun for all ages and not too scary. Experience lots of comedy and magic. You will see Jim help out a goofy Frankenstein when he loses his head and a skeleton come apart inside a closet. You'll see a funny ghost flit from room to room while Jim tries to find him and another one magically change color from white to green to pink! There's even some helpful Halloween safety tips about not trick-or-treating at strangers' houses and carrying a flashlight for safety. Of course, in typical Jim Kleefeld fashion, the stranger's house and the flashlight both act very magical to add some fun to the message. No registration is required.

Meet the Author - "In the Heart of it All: An Unvarnished Account of My Life in Public Service"
Book by Richard F. Celeste
Thursday, November 10, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.
Main Library Auditorium

Please join us as former Ohio Governor Richard Celeste visits his hometown of Lakewood for a special Meet the Author program. "In the Heart of It All: An Unvarnished Account of My Life in Public Service," recounts his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in northeast Ohio to Yale, Oxford, Washington DC, India, the Ohio Governor’s Residence, and beyond. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Knit & Lit Book Club
Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Main Library Meeting Room
Come share your passion for great literature and show off your knitting, crocheting, counted cross-stitch, embroidery and quilting works-in-progress.

November 15, 2022 The Foundling by Ann Leary 

Booked for Murder Book Club
Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.
Main Library Meeting Room 
If you share a passion for mystery, join the group each month to discuss your favorites and selections made by group members.

Dear Ukraine: Ukrainian Folk Tales and Craft

Wednesday, October 12, 2022, 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 
Main Library Activity Room

For Students in Kindergarten through Second Grade
Do you like stories about animals? Ukrainian folk tales and fairy tales often use animals to show us how we can succeed with the challenges life brings us and encourage us to never give up! Join us October 12 as we read "The Mitten" by Jan Brett and create our own piece of Ukrainian art. Registration is required. Register online at lakewoodpubliclibrary.org/youth or call (216) 226-8275, ext. 140.

Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.
Main Library- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. 
Saturdays- 10:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. 

Homework Help

For Students in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade
August – May
Monday through Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How can you get intermediate and high school students interested in history?

A Case Western Reserve history professor nearly forty years ago came up with an idea: a history contest. He called it History Day, and it has since grown from a local to a state and then a national competition—National History Day.

Mary Manning, coordinator of the Ohio District 3 contest at the Western Reserve Historical Society, will visit Lakewood Public Library to explain the program at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 19, 2022. The event will take place in the Main Library Auditorium.

The contest is open to students of all schools, including home schools, from grades six to twelve. Students compete individually or in small groups in five categories: historical papers, websites, documentaries, performances, and exhibits. Winners in each category may go on to the state contest in Columbus and from there to the national contest in College Park, Maryland.

Besides knowledge, interest, and experience gained along the way, students are also eligible for special prizes ranging from cash awards to college scholarships. In recognition of its role as the “Birthplace of History Day,” Case Western Reserve has offered a full four-year scholarship as a prize at the national level.

“Frontiers in History” will be the theme for History Day 2023. District 3 History Day will take place at University Circle in early March 2023. After two years of virtual contests, Manning has high hopes for hosting a live event.

Please join us at Lakewood Public Library on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. as Mary Manning discusses the benefits for participants and provides samples of local National History Day entries. This program is presented in partnership with the Lakewood Historical Society.

Knit & Lit Book Club

Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Meeting Room

Come share your passion for great literature and show off your knitting, crocheting, counted cross-stitch, embroidery and quilting works-in-progress.

October 18, 2022  "The Bee and The Fly" by Lorraine Tosiello and Jane Cavolina

Booked for Murder Book Club

Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Meeting Room   

If you share a passion for mystery, join the group each month to discuss your favorites and selections made by group members.

October 20, 2022  "The Company of Demons" by Michael Jordan

Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.
Main Library- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. 
Saturdays- 10:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Fridays- 10:30 a.m.

Homework Help

For Students in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade
August – May
Monday through Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Main Library Homework Room and Madison Branch

“Education done well is transformative.” – James P. Kubacki

In over forty years devoted to the field of education, James P. Kubacki worked hard to transform the lives of the students he served. Though he no longer walks the halls of St. Edward High School, the recently retired president is still making an impact with his new book, “Choose to Lead: A Practical Guide for Educational Leadership.”

Kubacki has taken the greatest lessons of his career and assembled a guide meant to create and inspire effective leaders among the students, teachers, principals, and trustees that shape our learning institutions. The author will visit Lakewood Public Library to discuss the book on Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. The event takes place in the Main Library Auditorium.

Born to hardworking parents who ran the Pink Elephant Tavern in Westlake (now the Rusty Barrel), Kubacki went on to graduate from St. Ignatius High School, Harvard University and Fordham University. His robust career has included serving as head of a secondary school, principal, college football coach, college associate dean of admissions and most recently, sixteen years as President of St. Edward High School.

In his book, Kubacki counsels the reader as if they were the new head of school walking through the front doors on day one. He offers insights and tips on what they might expect, how they may be feeling and where to begin.

“First, get to know the lay of the land,” Kubacki advises. “Get keys and wander the campus. Open every door.”

From developing relationships and a vision to managing operations and strategic planning, the author’s guidance extends far past the doors of academia. “Choose to Lead” applies to effective leadership in any field.

The program will begin with a special introduction of Mr. Kubacki by Sean Kearns, St. Edward High School Class of 1988.

Booked for Murder Book Club
Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.
Main Library Meeting Room 
If you share a passion for mystery, join the group each month to discuss your favorites and selections made by group members.

September 15, 2022 "The Big Con: The Story of the Confidence Man" by David W. Maurer
Knit & Lit Book Club
Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Main Library Meeting Room
Come share your passion for great literature and show off your knitting, crocheting, counted cross-stitch, embroidery and quilting works-in-progress.

September 20, 2022 "The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek" by Kim Michele Richardson

Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.

Main Library- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. 
Saturdays- 10:30a.m.

Madison Branch- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. 

Homework Help

For Students in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade
August – May
Monday through Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Main Library Homework Room and Madison Branch

Students who need a little extra help with homework or just want a cool place to work can come to the Library for Homework Help to get assistance and to use the Library’s resources in a quiet place free of distractions. Students can use their library card to check out a Chrome Book to use in the Library and have access to a variety of school supplies including pencils, pens, crayons, markers, calculators, protractors, and more. In addition, students with Eureka Math™ homework will find grade level Homework Helpers workbooks, companion guides to Eureka Math™. A library staff member is on hand and available to assist with everything from spelling words to solving math problems. No registration is required.

Girls Who Code Club

Pre-school Story Time: For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler

This four-week pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. Register once for all four weeks.

Main Library- Tuesdays, September 13- October 4, 2022
10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
Wednesdays, September 13- October 5, 2022
11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Madison Branch- Thursdays, September 14- October 6, 2022
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Just Baby 'N Me: For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby

In-Person Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.
Main Library- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. 
Saturdays- 10:30 a.m. 
Madison Branch- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. 

Virtual Meet the Authors

Mary Cole Watson Reads Her Book, "Wisdom Warriors"
Cleveland Heights author Mary Cole Watson shares her book, a culmination of more than twenty short stories, to provide wisdom to all who may need it when faced with a crucial conversation. Mary Cole Watson made it her life goal to ensure the next generation of learners understand their designated place in African American heritage.

Meet the Author- Ten Ohio Disasters

Book by Neil Zurcher 

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. 

Main Library Auditorium 

Revisit the devastating Xenia tornado, the statewide Blizzard of ‘78, and an ill-fated group parachute jump over Lake Erie in "Ten Ohio Disasters." Author Neil Zurcher combines firsthand accounts and local lore to showcase the tragic lessons and inspiring examples of heroism in Ohio history. Neil Zurcher is a retired journalist and original host of One Tank Trips on Fox 8. He has won multiple awards for his travel writing and is the author of nine books.

Meet the Author- A Penny’s Thoughts: Sometimes All You Need Is A Change of Perspective

Book by Tommy O’Sionnach

Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

The Rotary Club of Lakewood and Rocky River was recognized for awarding Lakewood Public Library a grant for its StoryWalk by Julie Strunk, LPL manager, children's and youth services. The story is located on the west side of the Library on Arthur Avenue. 

In-Person Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.

Main Library- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Saturdays- 10:30 a.m.

Madison Branch- Fridays- 10:30 a.m.

Zap’s Pirate and Princess Magic Show

Friday, July 15, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. on the Main Library Front Porch

For the Whole Family

Meet the Author- Wicked Cleveland

Book by Jane Ann Turzillo 

Wednesday, July 6, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. 

Main Library Auditorium 

Wicked Cleveland presents a look into Cleveland’s rough and rowdy past. From bookies to mobsters to Lakewood’s infamous bank robber Ted Conrad, author Jane Ann Turzillo tells the stories from Cleveland’s underworld. Jane Ann Turzillo is a National Federation of Press Women award winner for her books and journalism. She has been nominated twice for the Agatha Award for her vintage true crime books. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Film- Iron Jawed Angels (2004)

Presented by Lakewood League of Women Voters 

Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. (123 minutes)

Main Library Auditorium

Join Lakewood League of Women Voters for a screening of Iron Jawed Angels. American suffragette Alice Paul (Hilary Swank) takes her advocacy to Washington, D.C. to fight for the right to vote. When President Wilson refuses, Paul shows how far she is willing to go for the cause. While challenging the ideology of patriarchy, the film showcases democracy and exhibits white privilege. The film will be followed by a discussion.

In-Person Pre-school Story Time

For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler

This six-week pre-school story time is ideal for walkers, new talkers, and learning early literacy skills. You and your toddler and preschoolers will enjoy short books, songs and rhymes. The focus is on skills with your participation as a model. Registration is required. Register once for all six weeks.

Main Library- Tuesdays, June 14, 2022- July 19, 2022

11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, June 15, 2022- July 20, 2022

11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Madison Branch- Thursdays, June 16, 2022-July 21, 2022

10:00 a.m.- 10:30 a.m.

11:00 a.m.- 11:30 a.m.

Virtual All Day Pre-school Story Time

Cleveland Historian Thomas Matowitz Jr. will present “The Architecture of Walker & Weeks” on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. in the Madison Branch Meeting Room. The Madison Branch is located at 13229 Madison Avenue. This program is free and open to the public.

The architecture firm of Walker and Weeks, known for iconic structures such as Severance Hall, Public Auditorium and the Guardians of Transportation (Hope Memorial Bridge), also designed the Madison Branch Library in 1929. Matowitz will discuss the Library Branch, along with these other well-known buildings.

Frank Walker and Harry Weeks studied architecture at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and traveled to Europe to build upon their training. The two came to Cleveland and eventually established their firm when the development of the city really started to boom.

Thomas Matowitz, Jr. is a native of the Cleveland area, and has a long-standing interest in Cleveland's rich architectural history. Matowitz writes a column on historic Cleveland for Freshwater Cleveland and has written several books on local history.

Learn more about the architecture of the Madison Branch, and other important Cleveland architectural gems on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. in the Madison Branch Meeting Room.

Meet the Author- Fire on the Water

Book by Scott MacGregor

Illustrated by Gary Dumm 

Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. 

Main Library Auditorium 

Author Scott MacGregor and illustrator Gary Dumm tell the story of a brilliant African American inventor, desperate immigrants and corrupt bosses in "Fire on the Water." This original graphic novel imagines the lives of those involved in the real-life Lake Erie tunnel disaster of 1916. Scott MacGregor has been writing comic book stories for over 30 years. Gary Dumm has been drawing cartoons and comics since childhood. Books will be available for sale and signing at this event.

Booked for Murder Book Club

Thursday, June 16, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. 

Main Library Meeting Room 

If you share a passion for mystery, join the group each month to discuss your favorites and selections made by group members. This month we will discuss "The Woman in the Window" by A.J. Finn. 

Knit & Lit Book Club 

Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. 

Main Library Meeting Room 

Come share your passion for great literature and show off your knitting, crocheting, counted cross-stitch, embroidery and quilting works-in-progress. This month we will discuss "The Vanishing Half" by Brit Bennett. 

In-Person Family Weekend Wonders

Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.

Begins Friday, June 3, 2022

Main Library- Fridays- 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Saturdays- 10:30 a.m.

Madison Branch- Fridays- 10:30 a.m.

Build a Shark Workshop

For Children in Kindergarten through Second Grade

A special shark themed story time where students will make their own stuffed shark, name their shark and receive an adoption certificate. Space is limited. Registration is required.

Oscar Wilde is known for his theatrical plays, but this storied author’s body of work includes much more. Take a look at Wilde’s life with an exclusive performance from WordStage Literary Concerts on Sunday, May 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium.

May is National Photography Month and Lakewood Public Library has programming to celebrate all month long. From early photography to celebrity portraits and smartphone snaps, we will explore the history and artistry of photography.

Staff from the George Eastman Museum in New York will be presenting the World of Daguerreotypes via Zoom in our Main Library Auditorium or on your home computer. Drawing inspiration from R. J. Palacio’s book "Pony," learn about the history and art of photography and the early processing of daguerreotypes. Patrons ages 10 and older can join us on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. Adults and families are welcome. Registration is required. Register at lakewoodpubliclibrary.org or by calling (216) 226-8275, ext. 140.

Renowned portrait photographer Abe Frajndlich is known for his celebrity portraits and striking creative style. He will discuss his upcoming book "Seventyfive at Seventyfive" on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium. This book covers his storied career and includes some of his favorite photos including portraits of Dennis Hopper, Jack Lemmon and Miles Davis, along with breathtaking shots of landscapes and architectural structures.

Do you wonder what life is like under the sea? Then explore Oceans of Possibility during the Lakewood Public Library’s summer reading challenge.

Choose the books you want to read and come into the library once a week to collect stickers. Whenever you read one book or read for twenty minutes, log each title in your reading record or online. Read thirty hours if you are a student entering sixth through twelfth grade and check in every ten hours you complete.  

If you check in your thirtieth book, ten hours, or thirty hours of reading by Monday, August 15, 2022, you will receive a final reward.

Register online at lakewoodpubliclibrary.org. or in person starting Friday, May 13, 2022

During the month of April, The Lakewood Public Library is hosting the exhibits “America’s Wolves” and “Tiger! Tiger!” from the Paly Foundation, an organization dedicated to science-based education and natural conservation.

In “America’s Wolves,” learn all about the Red Wolf, the Gray Wolf, the Mexican Wolf and the Eastern Wolf, all native to North America. In “Tiger! Tiger!” explore the exciting world of tigers and learn about the innovative methods being implemented to make sure they continue to have a home in a balanced ecosystem. Explore how these animals benefit their habitats as apex predators and learn what it will take to save them.  

These exhibits feature interactive games, quizzes and discussion points that are thought provoking and educational. “America’s Wolves” and “Tiger!Tiger!” will be on display in the Main Library second floor gallery from April 1 through April 30, 2022.

March 21

Local author Ladosha Wright, hair stylist turned writer, combines her career in cosmetology with writing to promote her books to various audiences about self-acceptance, culture and life. In “Curly Hair Adventures,” Wright focuses on a difficult question young girls, of all ethnicities, want answered: “What can I do to manage my hair and how can I continue to take care of it?”

March 31

Local author Karen Tapp’s book, “Molly the Mallard Duck,” is the true story of Kathy and the mallard duck she named Molly. A bedtime story Karen told her niece when she was one year old, she is now sharing this story with your children.