McKinney Public Library Fall Guide 2023

Weekly & Monthly Programs

Little Ones (0-5 Years)

LITTLE ONES LAPSIT (0-10 months)

Encourage early literacy and motor skills with simple books, rhymes, bounces, tickles, and movement games.

HALL: Mondays; 10:30 a.m.

JJGL: Thursdays; 10:30 a.m.

WOBBLERS & WALKERS (10-16 months)

If your little one is already walking or starting to walk, this program is for you! Join us for short rhymes and songs for the more mobile babies to enjoy.

JJGL: Tuesdays; 10:30 a.m.

HALL: Wednesdays; 10:30 a.m.

GREAT START: PRE-K STORYTIME (3-5 years)

Encourage imagination, creativity, and early development through stories, songs, and play time with friends.

HALL: Tuesdays; 10:30 a.m.

LITTLE EXPLORERS (3-5 years)

Explore the world around us with a STEAM story time. Children will gain an understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through stories, songs, and hands-on elements.

JJGL: Tuesdays; 11:30 a.m.

MULTILINGUAL STORYTIME (3-5 years)

Celebrate different cultures and support your child’s literacy skills as they explore new languages through stories, songs, and rhymes.

JJGL: Wednesdays; 10:30 a.m.

TODDLER TIME (16 months-3 years)

Spark your toddler’s imagination and encourage early literacy and social development with story time, songs, and rhymes.

JJGL: Fridays; 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

HALL: Fridays; 10:30 a.m.

School Age (K-5th Grade)

MAD SCIENCE

Dive into the worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, where children will uncover fascinating topics and learn to go even deeper on their own.

JJGL: Tuesdays; 4:30 p.m.

HALL: Wednesdays; 4:30 p.m.

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DRAW?

Practice new art techniques and find your inspiration as we learn to draw animals, characters, nature, and more. All skill levels welcome.

JJGL: Wednesdays; 4:30 p.m.

Teens (6th-12th Grade)

BLACKOUT POETRY

Give new life to old pages and create your own blackout poetry from magazines, book pages, and more. Cover the extra text and watch your new poem appear in this fun visual poetry program.

HALL: Mondays; 5 p.m.

CROCHET CLUB

Get hooked on a new hobby and learn to crochet. All skill levels welcome. Crochet materials provided.

JJGL: Mondays; 6 p.m.

ANIME CLUB

Connect with other teens and share your love of anime and manga. We will watch some favorite shows and discover new ones as we get creative with coloring and crafts.

JJGL: Tuesdays; 5 p.m.

HALL: Saturdays; 4 p.m.

ZOOM: Thursdays; 5 p.m.

NATURE-INSPIRED CRAFTS

Discover the beauty of the natural world by creating a craft inspired by nature. Crafts include painted pumpkins, luminaries, and beeswax candles.

HALL: Tuesdays; Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14, Dec. 12; 5 p.m.

DIGITAL ART

Learn the basics of digital illustration with the Procreate app for iPad. Build your digital art skills week by week. Beginners welcome! Register in advance to reserve an iPad or bring your own.

JJGL: Wednesdays; Sept. 27, Oct. 25, Nov. 29; 4:30 p.m.

BUDGET BOSS

Use real-life scenarios as we test your money management skills and challenge your friends to see who the ultimate Budget Boss is.

JJGL: Thursdays; Sept. 21, Oct. 19, Nov. 16; 5 p.m.

STEAM BUILDING (5th-8th

grade)

Discover exciting connections between Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math with fun hands-on experiments and real-world scenarios.

JJGL: Fridays; Sept. 15, Oct. 20, Nov. 17, Dec. 15; 4:30 p.m.

BRAIN WARRIOR CHALLENGES

(5th -8th grade)

Put your brain power to the test with new challenges. From puzzles to chess, see if you have what it takes to win the title of Brain Warrior! Presented in partnership with AoPS Academy Frisco.

JJGL: Saturdays; Sept. 23, Oct. 21, Nov. 11; 11 a.m.

IT MIGHT GET MESSY

Let loose with messy arts and crafts to inspire your artistic side. Each month, we’ll tackle colorful projects and introduce new art styles.

JJGL: Sundays; Sept. 17, Oct. 15, Nov. 19, Dec. 17; 3 p.m.

TEEN CREATIVE WRITING GROUP

From poetry to novels, bounce ideas off fellow creative writers and get feedback and support for your writing.

JJGL: Sundays; Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3; 1 p.m.

All Ages

LEGO & FRIENDS

The sky is the limit as we build critical thinking and engineering skills through play. Bricks provided.

HALL: Mondays; 11:30 a.m.

PJS AND PICTURE BOOK STORYTIME

Put on your jammies and learn something new before bed! Bring the whole family for a nighttime adventure through stories.

JJGL: Wednesdays; 6:30 p.m.

INTERFAITH STORYTIME

Enjoy family friendly stories from different beliefs and backgrounds about curiosity, community and kindness.

HALL: Thursdays; Sept. 14, Oct. 12, Nov. 9, Dec. 14; 6:30 p.m.

FAMILY STORYTIME

Start your weekend at the library every Saturday with stories, songs, and hands-on activities that encourage socialization and early literacy.

HALL: Saturdays; 10:30 a.m.

INTRODUCTION TO CHESS

Learn to play chess and make friends while you’re at it!

JJGL: Saturdays; 10:15 a.m.

ROBOTICS!

(1st-12th grade)

Build your STEM skills in this globally recognized program, as seen on Disney+. Check out new monthly topics, demonstrations, and hands-on robotics opportunities sponsored by McKinney Mercenaries Robotics and coordinated with FIRST.

JJGL: Saturdays; Sept. 2, Oct. 7, Oct. 21, Nov. 4, Nov. 18, Dec. 2, Dec. 16; 2:30 p.m.

SATURDAY CHESS MEETUP

Practice chess with new friends in a fun environment. All skill levels welcome! This is not an instructional program.

JJGL: Saturdays; 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

GAME ON!

Welcome to the library arcade! Compete against your friends for the title of Ultimate Gamer with Wii, PC, retro, and board games for an afternoon of gaming and friendly competition.

JJGL: Sundays; Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3; 1-4 p.m.

Check out our Facebook page for links to all events, and other fun activities! Don’t forget to share your photos with us! @McKinneyLibrary

Location key:

JJGL: John & Judy Gay Library

HALL: Roy & Helen Hall Memorial Library

ZOOM: Virtual Class on Zoom

ADULT PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Book Clubs

TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on thrilling true crime books.

JJGL: & ZOOM: Wednesdays; Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13; 7 p.m.

ADULT BOOK CLUB

Join a community of book lovers for conversations about our latest read, book recommendations, and more.

HALL: Wednesdays; Sept. 6, Oct. 4., Nov. 1, Dec. 6; 12 p.m.

CLASSICS BOOK CLUB

Enjoy discussion with fellow book lovers as we read a timeless book each month.

JJGL: Sundays; Sept. 17, Oct. 15, Nov. 19, Dec. 17; 1:30 p.m

Cyber Safety

FBI PRESENTS: KEEPING KIDS SAFE ON THE DIGITAL PLAYGROUND

Gain valuable resources and insight into the online dangers children can encounter with the FBI Dallas Field Office.

JJGL: Thursday, Sept. 7; 7 p.m.

FBI PRESENTS: PERSONAL CYBERSECURITY FOR ADULTS

Learn best practices to protect your personal information, secure your online activity, and access resources for victims of financial fraud and identity theft with the FBI Dallas Field Office.

JJGL: Thursday, Oct. 5; 7 p.m.

Games & Gaming

View

current book selections at McKinneyTexas.org/BookClubs

Health Support

BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP

Join a community of supportive moms to discuss breastfeeding topics, from tips for new moms to what to do as your baby grows, hosted by our La Leche League partner.

JJGL: Thursdays; Sept. 7, Oct. 5, Nov. 2, Dec. 7; 11:15 a.m.

CAREGIVER CONVERSATIONS

Find the resources, support, and answers you need to navigate the challenges of adult caregiving led by a professional counselor. Bring your own lunch and find comfort with others on the same journey.

HALL: Mondays; Sept. 25, Oct. 23, Nov. 27; 12 p.m.

ADULT TRIVIA NIGHT

Let’s get quizzical! Test your knowledge against your friends and other trivia buffs. Players are encouraged to play in teams.

JJGL: Wednesdays; Sept. 20, Oct. 18, Nov. 15; 7 p.m.

PEN AND PAPER RPG CLUB

Level up your role-playing game skills and enjoy discussions on tools, tips, and strategies with other players about your favorite tabletop games.

HALL: Free Play: Sundays; 1-4:30 p.m.

Open Discussion: Sundays; 3 p.m.

Location key:

JJGL: John & Judy Gay Library

HALL: Roy & Helen Hall Memorial Library

ZOOM: Virtual Class on Zoom

Business, Technology & Law

SMALL BUSINESS MASTERCLASS

From marketing to finances, get the advice you need to start your own business and see how small business owners can empower and improve their communities. Presented by Behind the Leaf.

HALL: Tuesdays; Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14, Dec. 12; 7 p.m.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND IMPACT ON LANDLORD/ TENANT ISSUES

September is National Disaster Preparedness Month. Legal Aid of North West Texas will discuss what you can do to be better prepared for a disaster along with understanding your rights as a tenant in the aftermath of a disaster event.

HALL: Tuesday, Sept. 12; 6:30 p.m.

FINANCIAL LITERACY & BANKRUPTCY

Learn the basics of achieving financial literacy and security, as well as your rights and remedies as a consumer, including bankruptcy. Presented by Legal Aid of Northwest Texas.

HALL: Tuesday, Oct. 10; 6:30 p.m.

LANDLORD & TENANT LAW

Learn the general ins and outs of landlord/tenant law, how to defend certain rights, and tactics to utilize when fighting an eviction. Presented by Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas.

JJGL: Tuesday, Dec. 12; 6:30 p.m.

OPEN-SOURCE MEETUP

Open-source technologies offer cost-effective solutions with flexibility, customization, and security. Share your own discoveries and projects while learning from fellow enthusiasts.

HALL: Tuesdays; Sept. 5, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5; 7 p.m.

History & Genealogy

RESEARCHING YOUR HISTORIC PROPERTY

Find out all you need to know about your historic property, from historical incentives and markers to qualifications for historic homes and how to research your home’s history.

HALL: Saturday, Sept. 9; 1 p.m.

GENEALOGY

AND FAMILY HISTORY

See what genealogy resources are available at the library with presentations by the North Collin County Genealogical Society.

HALL: Thursdays; Sept. 28, Oct. 26; 6:30 p.m.

GENEALOGY OFFICE HOURS

Get Individualized support for your genealogy needs from our partners at the North Collin County Genealogical Society.

HALL: Sundays; Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3; 1-3 p.m.

FAMILY HISTORY DAY

Connect with your roots and grow your family research skills through various genealogy webinars. Hosted in partnership with the North Collin County Genealogical Society and Genealogy Network of Texas.

HALL & ZOOM: Friday, Oct. 20; 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Arts & Culture

IT MIGHT GET LOUD

We’ve turned the library into a music studio! Join a community of musicians as we perform, experiment, and make new music together. All skill levels and instruments are welcome—just bring your own gear.

JJGL: Fridays; Sept. 1, Oct. 6, Nov. 3, Dec. 1; 6:30 p.m.

POETRY OPEN MIC

Come for the performances or take the mic yourself for open mic poetry. Share your love of poetry with Mockingbird Poetry Society and other local poets.

JJGL: Sunday, Oct. 8; 2:30 p.m.

WRITERS EXCHANGE

Develop your writing skills by joining our friendly group. Collaborate with other writers on all parts of the writing process, including editing, publishing, and marketing.

JJGL: Sundays; Sept. 10, Oct. 8, Nov. 12, Dec. 10; 1 p.m.

Concerts

AT THE LIBRARY

Enjoy this free mini-concert series featuring local talent from all genres performing in a unique and intimate setting.

Dates and times vary. Check our website for more information: McKinneyTexas.org/Programs

Join us for these

FALL EVENTS

All Ages

FAMILY GOLF DAY

Find out if you have what it takes to be a golf champion with a day of family-friendly activities. Learn how to play or perfect your swing, explore the science behind the sport, and uncover the history behind the Byron Nelson.

JJGL: Saturday, Sept. 30; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

FIRE SAFETY DAY

Enjoy fun and educational activities with the McKinney Fire Department. Meet Sparky the Fire Dog, explore a fire truck or ambulance, and learn fire safety tips from your local firefighters.

JJGL: Saturday, Oct. 7; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

ECLIPSE ENCOUNTER

Get ready to witness an awe-inspiring solar eclipse with free eclipse glasses at the library. Explore the universe of space science through hands-on crafts and activities and learn about the latest NASA missions.

HALL: Saturday, Oct. 14; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

HALLOWEEN HAUNT

It’s the ultimate not-so-scary, family-friendly celebration filled with thrills and fun! Grab your costumes and join us for a spook-tacular time!

HALL: Saturday, Oct. 28; 1-4 p.m.

TURKEY FEATHER FOOD DRIVE

Trade canned food for the chance to add feathers to our Library Turkey and watch it grow in our November Food Drive with North Texas Food Bank. Finish your month of giving with a day of crafts and activities and one last chance to add your feathers to the turkey.

HALL: Tuesday, Nov. 21; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Adults

DEAD AFTER DARK

Celebrate life, culture, and community in a spirited after-hours event with colorful activities, vendors, and attractions for Dia de los Muertos - the Day of the Dead.

HALL: Friday, Oct. 20; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

HOLIDAY PLANTS

Master the art of choosing and caring for your favorite holiday plants, while keeping them healthy and stunning all season long with the help of Collin County Master Gardeners.

HALL: Sunday, Nov. 5; 2 p.m.

Location key:

JJGL: John & Judy Gay Library

HALL: Roy & Helen Hall Memorial Library

WINTER EVENTS

WINTERLAND

Step into a life-size Candy Land adventure as we bring the classic board game to life. This is a self-led game.

HALL: Dec. 18-31; during open hours

CAROLING ON THE SQUARE

Help us spread holiday cheer with carols, hot chocolate, and cookies! Sing your way around downtown McKinney and then stick around for the McKinney Rotary Christmas Parade of Lights. Holiday clothing encouraged.

HALL: Saturday, Dec. 9; 5:00 p.m.

HYGGE HOLIDAY

Slow down this holiday season and embrace the cozy Hygge lifestyle with an event celebrating friendship and family, simple joys, and warm comforts.

JJGL: Saturday, Dec. 16; 11-2 p.m.

NOON YEAR’S EVE

We’re ringing in the New Year early with a kid-friendly “noon year’s eve” celebration. Enjoy crafts, dancing, games, a New Years’ wishing wall, and an exciting balloon drop as we count down to the New Year.

JJGL: Saturday, Dec. 30; 11 a.m.

Volunteer Opportunitues

Ages 13 yrs. and up

Interested in volunteering at the library?

Register at McKinney.Voly.org and select “I’m interested in libraries” to get emails about available opportunities.

Don’t miss out! Register in advance.

The McKinney Public Library’s programs and events are free, but space is limited. To register, visit McKinneyPublicLibrary.org/Register. Free tickets are available in advance on a first-come-first-serve basis. For groups larger than ten, please call 972-547-7323.

Due to high demand, ticketholders who arrive more than five minutes late will lose their tickets. The tickets will then go to the next patron on the waitlist. Depending upon the program presenter, entry into programs past the start time may not be allowed.

McKinney Library Locations

JOHN & JUDY GAY LIBRARY IN GABE NESBITT COMMUNITY PARK

101 E. Hunt St. McKinney, Texas 75069

6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy. McKinney, Texas 75070

Monday–Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday–Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday 1-5 p.m.

McKinneyPublicLibrary.org • 972-547-7323