Little Ones 0-5 Years weekly
programs
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BABY & ME (0-10 Months)
Encourage early literacy and motor skills with simple books, rhymes, bounces, tickles, and movement games.
HALL Mondays; 9:30 a.m.
JJGL Wednesdays; 10:30 a.m.
TINY BUILDERS STORYTIME (3-5 Years)
Introduce your preschooler to the world of building! Enjoy interactive stories and hands-on stations that promote engineering and fine motor skills.
JJGL Tuesdays; 11:30 a.m.
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WOBBLERS & WALKERS (10-20 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 Thursdays; 9:30 a.m.
LITTLE EXPLORERS (3-5 Years)
Explore the world around us with a STEAM storytime. Children will increase their understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through stories, songs, and hands-on elements.
HALL Tuesdays; 10 a.m.
JJGL Thursdays; 11:30 a.m.
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CULTURAL STORYTIME (3-5 Years)
Celebrate different cultures and support your child’s literacy skills as they explore the world through stories, songs, and rhymes.
JJGL Wednesdays, Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11; 11:30 a.m.
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TODDLER TIME (16 Months-3 Years)
Spark your toddler’s imagination and encourage early literacy and social development with storytime, songs, and rhymes.
JJGL Thursdays; 10:30 a.m.
JJGL Fridays; 10:30 a.m.
HALL Fridays; 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. Promote social interaction and empathy as you prepare your preschooler for school.
HALL Fridays; 11:30 a.m.
School Age
K-5th Grade
MAD SCIENCE
Dive into the worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, where children will explore fascinating topics that encourage curiosity and problem-solving.
JJGL Mondays; 4:30 p.m.
BOARD GAMES & FRIENDS
Play board games and make new friends while we learn valuable social skills through interactive gameplay.
JJGL Wednesdays; 2 p.m.
FAMILY RPG ADVENTURES (3rd-8th Grade)
Embark on a quest with family and friends with interactive role-playing games (RPGs). Families will be immersed in the realm of RPGs as they are guided through unique challenges that encourage problem solving skills and teamwork.
HALL Wednesdays; 4 p.m.
LEGO BRICKS & MORE
Explore the world of building and creativity with LEGO bricks and more! Learn basic engineering concepts and teamwork while constructing imaginative creations.
HALL Thursdays; 4:30 p.m.
CITY BUILDING: KIDS
Become a Junior Planner for a day as McKinney’s Planning Team guides you through a creative city building exercise. We will use our imaginations to create models of our favorite places to visit in the city and team up to see how our favorite places can fit together to create an awesome city for everyone!
HALL Thursday, Oct. 3; 4 p.m.
Teens 6th-12th Grade
weekly/monthly programs
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FOOD ART
Indulge your creativity and craft visually stunning food displays that are as delicious as they are beautiful. It’s art you can eat!
HALL Tuesdays; Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3; 5 p.m.
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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. 18, Oct. 16, Nov. 20; 4:30 p.m.
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SPA PREP
Take a moment to unwind and treat yourself to something special. With projects like soothing face masks and body scrubs, you’ll relax in no time.
HALL Tuesdays; Sept. 10, Oct. 8, Nov. 12, Dec. 10; 5 p.m.
BOARD GAME MEETUP
Who doesn’t love a good board game? Bring a friend or make some new ones. Games are provided but feel free to bring your favorite for the group to play.
JJGL Wednesdays; 2 p.m.
ART CHALLENGE
Explore endless creativity with no limits. From mini dioramas to collage mashups, each month’s challenge lets you unleash your artistic skills and take home something fresh.
JJGL Wednesdays; Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11; 4:30 p.m.
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MONEY MADNESS
Jumpstart your financial journey as we explore the world of investing and money management.
JJGL Wednesdays; Sept. 25, Oct. 23; 7 p.m.
LET’S TALK SPORTS
Take a pass at your sports knowledge and share your love of the game with fellow fans as we discuss the latest games. Fans from every sport are welcome.
JJGL Thursdays; 5 p.m.
GENERATIONAL BRAIN BATTLE
It’s the ultimate showdown of wisdom and wit in this multigenerational rivalry. Bring your family and see if their collective generational knowledge can outsmart the competition.
JJGL Thursdays; Sept. 5, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5; 7 p.m.
Teens 6th-12th Grade
NERF ATTCK
Gear up for an epic battle at the library and dart, dodge, and dive to victory!
JJGL Fridays; Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13; 6:30 p.m.
PEN & PROSE
Enter a supportive space where budding authors share ideas and find inspiration for their writing projects. Discussions will include editing techniques, character development, and more.
JJGL Sundays; Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8; 1 p.m.
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OREGON TRAIL LIVE
Are you ready to travel the famous Oregon Trail? Then gather your party, hop in the library wagon, and hope you don’t lose an axle… or a party member.
HALL Sundays; Sept. 15, Oct. 20, Nov. 17; 3 p.m.
TEEN RIVALRY
Get in the competitive spirit in this series of challenges where your skills will be tested, and champions will win the ultimate gold star.
HALL Sundays; Sept. 1, Oct. 6, Nov. 3, Dec. 1; 3 p.m.
Teen Special Events
ESCAPE ROOM
Enter a magical world where you must solve puzzles, crack codes, and work together to beat the clock and escape the room before time runs out!
JJGL Friday, Sept. 20; 6:30 p.m.
CITY BUILDING: TEENS
Join the City of McKinney Planning staff for a fun and creative community planning workshop. We will use art and abstract model-building to explore why we love the places we love and what elements of urban design make cities awesome.
HALL Thursday, Oct. 3; 5:30 p.m.
TEEN SPOOKTAKULAR
Grab your Halloween costume and enjoy a classic Halloween. With crafts like retro Halloween masks, black cat décor, and spooky collages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
JJGL Friday, Oct. 25; 6:30-8:30 p.m.
HYGGE HANGOUT
Experience the warmth and comfort of winter with a hygge (hoo-ga) holiday. We’ll sip hot beverages, curl up with relaxing crafts, and unwind surrounded by candles and fairy lights. Don’t forget to wear your coziest sweater!
JJGL Saturday, Dec. 7; 6:30-8:30 p.m.
FAMILY STORYTIME
Start your weekend at the library every Saturday with enchanting tales, interactive adventures, and shared moments that inspire a love of storytelling.
HALL Saturdays; 10:30 a.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.
BOOK RETRIEVAL:
Locate and pull books that library patrons have put on hold.
ORGANIZATION:
Help keep the library organized! Make sure books are shelved correctly.
SPECIAL EVENTS:
Assist with set-up, event management, and clean-up of special events.
PROGRAM PREP:
Assist with material set-up and creation for a variety of youth programs.
PROGRAMS:
Help library staff conduct different programs.
For questions, contact: LibraryVolunteer@McKinneyTexas.org
McKinney Public Library volunteer opportunities are listed on McKinneyPublicLibrary.org/Volunteers
Book Clubs
ADULT BOOK CLUB
Join a community of book lovers for conversations about our latest read, book recommendations, and more.
HALL Wednesdays; Sept. 4, Oct. 2, Nov. 13, Dec. 4; 12 p.m.
TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB
Join us for a thoughtful discussion on thrilling true crime books.
JJGL & ZOOM Wednesdays; Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11; 7 p.m.
CLASSICS BOOK CLUB
Enjoy discussion with fellow book lovers as we read a timeless book each month.
JJGL Sundays; Sept. 15, Oct. 20, Nov. 17; 2 p.m.
Health & Wellbeing
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. 23, Oct. 28, Nov. 25; 12 p.m.
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 Wednesdays; Sept. 4, Oct. 2, Nov. 6, Dec. 4; 11:15 a.m.
POISONS IN THE HOME
Know how to protect yourself, children, and pets from common poisons found in your home. The Texas Poison Center Network will be discussing medication safety, spider and snake bites, and poisonous plants.
JJGL Thursday, Sept. 12; 7 p.m.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Be prepared and discover the best practices for potential emergencies and disasters. Learn about different hazards, and how to create an emergency plan and an emergency supply kit.
JJGL Thursday, Sept. 19; 7 p.m.
Arts & Culture
CREATIVE ARTS STUDIO
(Ages 13 +)
Explore new ideas where traditional art meets digital innovation in this community-focused, hands-on monthly workshop series.
JJGL Tuesdays; Sept. 10, Oct. 8, Nov. 12, Dec. 10; 7 p.m.
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CREATIVE WRITERS WORKSHOP
Serious writers of all abilities are welcome in this communitydriven group where you’ll find support and collaboration in every stage of your writing journey.
HALL Wednesdays; Sept. 4, Oct. 2, Nov. 6, Dec. 4; 1-2:30 p.m.
UNDERTOLD STORIES: MEXICAN AND LATIN AMERICAN HISTORY
An introduction to the history of buildings, sites, landscapes, and people significant to the lives and cultural experiences of McKinney’s Mexican, Latin American, and Hispanic communities.
HALL Thursday, Sept. 26; 5:30 p.m.
CITY BUILDING: ADULTS
Join the City of McKinney Planning staff for an evening of creativity that combines art, storytelling, and community planning.
HALL Thursday, Oct. 10; 5:30 p.m.
SURVIVING WORLD WAR II
Join us for a journey through World War II as local author David Huntley recounts his firsthand experience of surviving The Blitz and witnessing a US B-17 bomber crash. Huntley will also delve into the narrative of his late wife’s life under Nazi occupation in France.
JJGL Thursday, Nov. 7; 7 p.m.
IT MIGHT GET LOUD (Ages 13+)
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. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1, Dec. 6; 6:30 p.m.
GROWING HEALTHY TREES IN COLLIN COUNTY
Trees give structure and beauty to a home while providing a lasting contribution to the environment. Learn more about the dos and don’ts of growing healthy trees with the Texas Master Gardeners.
JJGL Sunday, Oct. 13; 2 p.m.
Genealogy & Local History
The Roy & Helen Hall Memorial Library contains a research section to assist with local history research using our collection of local, national & international records and online resources. In addition, scanning and digitization technology is available to preserve your family history.
GENEALOGY OFFICE HOURS
Get individualized support for your genealogy needs from our partners at the North Collin County Genealogical Society.
HALL Sundays; Sept. 1, Oct. 6, Nov. 3, Dec.1; 1-3 p.m.
INTRODUCTION TO MCKINNEY’S HISTORIC DISTRICT FOR REALTORS AND NEW RESIDENTS
Interested in McKinney’s Historic District? Learn about the regulations, guidelines, and incentives for selling and buying homes in Historic Downtown McKinney.
HALL Monday, Nov. 18; 5:30 p.m.
PAST MEETS PRESENT
Meet and learn with other local history and genealogy enthusiasts through technology demonstrations, in-person discussions, and genealogy webinars. Hosted in partnership with the North Collin County Genealogical Society and Genealogy Network of Texas. Check our website for more details.
HALL Friday, Oct. 18; 10 a.m.-6.pm.
Adults
Business, Law & Technology
SMALL BUSINESS MASTERCLASS
Get advice about starting and growing your own business and see how small business owners can empower and improve their communities. Presented by SCORE.
JJGL Tuesdays; Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5; 7 p.m.
Sept. 3: Introduction to SCORE Oct. 1: Money in Plain English Nov. 5: Business Planning 101
SPECIAL EDUCATION RIGHTS AND ADVOCACY
Learn about the educational rights of students with disabilities and how to advocate for your student. Presented by Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas.
JJGL Tuesday, Sept. 17; 7 p.m.
GUARDIANSHIP 101
Learn about the guardianship process in the State of Texas and how to identify when someone may need a guardian appointed to assist with their care. Presented by Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas.
JJGL Tuesday, Oct. 22; 7 p.m.
Concerts
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 Saturdays; Sept. 7, Oct. 5, Nov. 2, Dec. 7; 10 a.m.
With a library card you have access to Udemy, one of the best on-demand training platforms for critical workplace skills and technical training. Training is self-paced and available on your own personal device! To get started visit: McKinneyPublicLibrary.org/Udemy
Learn in-demand skills with over 16,000+ online business, creative, and tech courses taught by real-world professionals who are passionate about teaching. To get started visit: McKinneyPublicLibrary.org/LInkedIn
Special Events
LIBRARY PALOOZA
Anything is possible at the library! Discover the whimsical world of stories, celebrate creativity and imagination, and enjoy the limitless magic of libraries with a day of bookish activities and performances for all ages.
HALL Saturday, Sept. 7; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
FIRE SAFETY DAY
Enjoy fun and educational activities with the McKinney Fire Department. Explore a fire truck or ambulance, learn fire safety tips from your local firefighters, and more!
JJGL Saturday, Oct. 5; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
DIWALI: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Light up the night with an after-hours celebration of culture, community, and the triumph of good over evil. Explore the festival of lights, featuring dazzling performances, colorful activities, and special illuminated displays for the whole family to enjoy.
HALL Friday, Oct. 18; 7-9 p.m.
HALLOWEEN HAUNT
Grab your costumes and join us for a ghoulish good time! Hang out with the library’s friendly ghosts, play pumpkin games, enjoy witchy activities, and more not-so-scary Halloween fun at this family-friendly event.
HALL Saturday, Oct. 26; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
FALL Y’ALL
Enjoy the colorful coziness of fall at an event for the whole family. Embrace the charm of harvest season with festive fall activities and entertainment for all ages at the library.
JJGL Saturday, Nov. 9; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
THANKS & GIVING
Celebrate Thanksgiving at the library as we craft silly turkeys, design greeting cards for friends and family, and share thanks with one another.
JJGL Tuesday, Nov. 26; 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
WINTER JUBILEE
Welcome winter to the library with a day of festive, frosty, fun!! Explore diverse traditions from winter holidays around the world with wintry activities to enjoy with friends and family
JJGL Saturday, Dec. 7; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
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. 14; 5 p.m.
NOON YEARS EVE
We’re ringing in the New Year early! Enjoy crafts, dancing, games, a New Year wishing wall, and an exciting balloon drop as we count down to the New Year at noon.
HALL Tuesday, Dec. 31; 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
The McKinney Public Library’s programs and events are free, but space is limited. To register, visit our website below. 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.
To register, visit McKinneyPublicLibrary.org/Register.
McKinney Library Locations
6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy. McKinney, Texas 75070 ROY & HELEN HALL
DOWNTOWN McKINNEY 101 E. Hunt St. McKinney, Texas 75069
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Monday-Thursday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.