The Rochester Public Library brings the world of learning to life with a host of interactive programs geared for all ages. From resume-writing workshops to movie viewings, these programs range from practical self-improvement courses to just plain fun. They all help the library fulfill its central mission of fostering intellectual curiosity and demonstrating the value of understanding our world. Programs are offered at the Central Library and our ten library branches, conveniently located throughout the city of Rochester. Below is a sampling of some of the programs we have to offer.
Story Times: 
Story times for preschoolers or kindergartners might include reading stories based on a theme, singing a song or two, finger puppets or repeating some rhymes that often include placing figures on a flannel board. These events allow children to have fun while gaining book experience and playing with language, both necessary steps to literacy. Story times also have the added benefit of introducing young children to their neighborhood libraries by providing them a regular opportunity to visit these community treasures. Hopefully, it’s the start of a lifelong relationship.
Class Visits:
Most library branches can host visits by school groups, providing teachers an opportunity to help their students learn about the tremendous resources of neighborhood libraries. These visits can be tailored to meet the teachers’ needs. Library card applications are sent to the teacher a few weeks in advance, so they can be sent home with the students. The teacher collects the applications and returns them to the library in advance of the visit. On the day of the visit, children receive their new library cards and browse the collections to find items to borrow. Appointments are necessary.
GED and other Tutoring Programs:
The Lyell Branch and Maplewood Community Libraries hold classes to help patrons prepare to take the GED exam. Abel Cin Zam, pictured left, is a Burmese refugee who recently earned his GED after participating in the program. Many branches have Literacy Aides who read with children, help them with homework and play educational games with them after school.
Safe to Be Smart:
This is an afterschool program located in the teen centers of the Arnett, Central, Lincoln, Maplewood, Sully and Wheatley Branch libraries. Teens can get help with homework, resume writing and computer skills while socializing with their peers and Youth Services Workers.
Music and Dance Programs:
Libraries often invite visiting artists to perform different kinds of music that appeal to every age group. We have hosted folk singers, African drumming circles, and Irish music and dance, to name a few. These programs stoke our patrons’ curiosity about other cultures in a place where they have ready access to even more information about those cultures.
Science Programs:
The subjects of books jump from the pages in our branch Family Science Day programs, where families can work with professional scientists to see how real experiments are conducted. The quest for knowledge is a lifelong process that involves much more than reading. Through awe and inspiration we’ll whet their interest in the world and send them on their own never-ending quest for knowledge.
Books Sandwiched-In (Central only):
This is our answer to the greatest dilemma of book lovers everywhere: “So many books, so little time.” Squeeze your love of books into your work day by listening to a review by a local expert or celebrity. Bring your lunch and listen. When it’s over, you know if you should put another book on your must-read list, or take one off. Beverages are available.
Tuesday Topics and Thursday Thinkers (Central only):
Sharpen your mind in the middle of the work day by attending a lunchtime presentation about a wide variety of current issues of interest and concern. Local professionals representing a wide range of areas offer the presentations.
Entertainment Programs:
Who says learning can’t be fun? Magicians, jugglers, comedians, musicians and even animal handlers are just a few of the entertainers who have visited our libraries and demonstrated the skills and interests they have dedicated so much of their lives to learning. Families can stop by for a movie or for the annual Children’s Film Festival. And who knows? Maybe the children will find a book, CD or movie that may interest them while they’re here.
Watch the events calendar for upcoming events. Please call your local branch library for more details.