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 Wednesdays; 9:30 a.m.
COMMUNITY STORYTIME (Monthly) (3-5 Years)
Learn about your community and other cultures through interactive stories, songs, and activities.
JJGL Wednesdays; Jan. 8, Feb. 12, March 12, April 9, May 14; 11:30 a.m.
LITTLE EXPLORERS (3-5 Years)
Explore the world around us with 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.
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.
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FAMILY STORYTIME (ALL AGES)
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.
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SATURDAY CHESS MEETUP (ALL AGES)
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.
School Age K-5th Grade weekly programs
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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 (K-8th Grade)
Play board games and learn valuable social skills through interactive gameplay. Games are provided but feel free to bring your favorite game to play with your friends!
JJGL Wednesdays; 2 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.
LEGO BRICKS & MORE
Explore the world of building and creativity with LEGO bricks and more! We will learn something new each week while constructing imaginative creations.
HALL Thursdays; 4:30 p.m.
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FAMILY STORYTIME (ALL AGES)
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.
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SATURDAY CHESS MEETUP (ALL AGES)
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.
Teens 6th-12th Grade monthly
programs
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 Mondays; Feb. 17, March 17, April 21, May 19; 5 p.m.
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, Jan. 7, Feb. 4, March 4, April 1, May 6; 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 Tuesdays; Jan. 14, Feb. 11, March 11, April 8, May 13; 4-6 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; Jan. 8, Feb. 12, March 12, April 9, May 14; 4:30 p.m.
DIY MINI ZINES
Express yourself and explore different mediums by crafting pocket-sized magazines.
JJGL Wednesdays; Jan. 15, Feb. 19, March 19, April 16, May 21; 5 p.m.
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CROCHET CLUB
Get hooked on a new hobby and learn to crochet. All skill level welcome. Crochet materials provided.
JJGL Thursdays; Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 13, April 10, May 8; 7 p.m.
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TEEN JOB PREP
Empower yourself for success in the job market by mastering resume writing, job search strategies, and interview techniques to confidently navigate the world of employment opportunities.
JJGL Thursdays; Jan. 16, Feb. 20, March 27, April 17, May 15; 5 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 axel… or a party member.
HALL Sundays; Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 2, April 6, May 4; 3 p.m.
Adults monthly
programs
Book Clubs
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ADULT BOOK CLUB
Join a community of book lovers for conversations about our latest read, book recommendations, and more.
HALL Wednesdays; Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, May 7; 12 p.m.
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TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB
Join us for a thoughtful discussion on thrilling true crime books.
JJGL Wednesdays; Jan. 8, Feb. 12, March 12, April 9, May 14; 7 p.m.
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CLASSICS BOOK CLUB
Enjoy discussion with fellow book lovers as we read a timeless book each month.
JJGL Sundays; Jan. 19, Feb. 16, March 16, May 18; 2 p.m.
Arts & Culture
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CREATIVE ARTS STUDIO (AGES 13+)
Explore new ideas for traditional art in this community-focused, hands-on monthly workshop series.
JJGL Tuesdays; Jan. 14, Feb. 18, March 11, April 8, May 13; 7 p.m.
CREATIVE WRITERS WORKSHOP
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Serious writers of all abilities are welcome in this communitydriven group. Whether you’re a blogger, fiction writer, playwright, or poet, you’ll find support and collaboration in every stage of your writing journey.
HALL Wednesdays; Jan. 8, Feb. 12, March 12, April 9; 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
JJGL Wednesday; May 14; 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
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IMPROMPTU POETRY WORKSHOP (AGES 13+)
Enjoy sharing your poetry with other fellow poets, as you participate in unique writing prompts that open your creativemind and enhance your poetry skills. In partnership with Mockingbird Poetry Society.
JJGL Saturday, March 29; 3 p.m.
POETRY OPEN MIC (Ages 13+)
Come for performances or take the mic yourself! Share your love of poetry with Mockingbird Poetry Society and other local poets. You are invited to read your own work or a poem from a favorite poet.
JJGL Sunday, April 27; 3 p.m.
Author Talk with Dave Lieber
Meet author Dave Lieber as he discusses his new book, Dandy Don Meredith-the First Dallas Cowboy. The event will include book sales and a book signing.
Health & Wellbeing
JJGL Thursday, Feb. 20; 7 p.m.
Adults monthly programs
Nature & Gardening
If you’re passionate about gardening and the environment, join us this spring as we explore eco-friendly practices to help your garden-and our planet-thrive. Check out following events presented in partnership with local grassroots groups.
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TEXAS TOUGH NATIVES FOR DROUGHTS & FLOODS
Texas weather is notorious for changing rapidly and going to extremes. Learn about what plants are best for your home and garden, and which resilient Texas native plants can keep your yard looking great. Presented by Native Plant Society of Texas.
JJGL Tuesday, Feb. 11; 7 p.m.
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PLANT & SEED SWAP
Connect with fellow gardeners and exchange seeds, plants, and gardening tips! This is a great opportunity to expand your plant collection, share what you have, and build community connections. Don’t miss the chance to swap your extras for something new.
JJGL Sunday, March 2; 3 p.m.
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WILDLIFE GARDENING: FOOD, WATER & SHELTER
Discover how to transform your garden into a thriving wildlife sanctuary! Join us to learn simple techniques for providing food, water, and shelter that will attract birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects to your outdoor space. Presented by Blackland Prairie Texas Master Naturalist.
HALL Sunday, March 9; 2 p.m.
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BEGINNING BIRDING
Curious about birding and don’t know where to start? Come learn the basics of bird identification and birding in your backyard. Discover the best birding locations, what to wear, and how to attract birds to your own yard. Presented by the Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society.
JJGL Thursday, March 20; 7 p.m.
HALL Saturday, March 29; 11 a.m.
RAINWATER HARVESTING WORKSHOP
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Reduce water runoff, conserve water, and lower your water bill! This workshop will guide you step-by-step through constructing a rain barrel and learning the benefits of rainwater harvesting for your home garden. Presented by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
JJGL Sunday, April 13; 2 p.m.
HALL Saturday, April 26; 10 a.m.
PLANTING FOR MONARCHS AND OTHER POLLINATORS
Learn why Texas is pivotal to the Monarchs’ success, and which native plants offer the most benefits when you are planting to support Monarchs and other pollinators. Presented by Native Plant Society of Texas.
JJGL Tuesday, May 6; 7 p.m.
Adults monthly programs
Health & Wellbeing
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; Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, May 7; 11:15 a.m.
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SEVERE WEATHER PREP
Learn essential safety practices and understand the risks of tornados, hail, and other weather hazards in North Texas. Discover how to protect yourself, your property, and your loved ones from potential dangers and receive tips on creating an emergency plan and emergency supply kit. Presented by the City of McKinney Emergency Management Department.
JJGL Thursday, March 27; 7 p.m.
Business & Online Learning
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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; Feb. 4, March 4, April 1; 7 p.m.
Feb. 4: Simple Steps to Start Your Business
March 4: Money in Plain English April 1: Business Plan 101
BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP
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! Visit McKinneyPublicLibrary.org/Udemy to get started.
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 access online resources. In addition, we welcome family histories and other historical donations.
Learn in-demand skills with over 16,000+ online business, creative, and tech courses taught by real-world professionals who are passionate about teaching. Visit McKinneyPublicLibrary.org/LinkedIn to get started.
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GENEALOGY OFFICE HOURS
Get individualized support for your genealogy needs from our partners at the North Collin County Genealogical Society.
HALL Sundays; Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 2, April 6, May 4; 1-3 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
Special Events
Mardi Gras
22 feb
Join the festivities with an exciting day of games, costumes, music, and your favorite Mardi Gras traditions.
HALL Saturday, Feb. 22; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Passport To Spring Break
Calling all adventurers! Fill up your Library Passport as we learn about different cultures through engaging crafts and activities. All events are come and go. Spring break activities are designed for kids age 3 years through 5th grade.
Monday, March 17: Japan 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Tuesday, March 18: Mexico 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Wednesday, March 19: India 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Thursday, March 20: Nigeria
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Friday, March 21: Australia
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
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PASSPORT PARTY (ALL AGES)
Explore the colorful world we live in with the exciting finale of our travel themed spring break series! Watch cultural performances, meet exotic animals, or enjoy hands on activities and games for all ages.
JJGL Saturday, March 22; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Spring into Fun
26apr
Fun is in full bloom at this spring festival at the library. Celebrate nature and new beginnings as you discover spring celebrations from around the world with exciting activities for the whole family.
JJGL Saturday, April 26; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Summer Kickoff
31 may
Something special is unfolding at the library. Save the date for the first chapter of our summer event series and be on the lookout for news about Summer Library Programs!
JJGL Saturday, May 31; 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
REGISTER
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
ROY & HELEN HALL MEMORIAL LIBRARY IN 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.
JOHN & JUDY GAY LIBRARY IN GABE NESBITT COMMUNITY PARK
6861 W. Eldorado Pkwy. McKinney, Texas 75070
Monday-Thursday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.