It’s no secret that the Wichita Public Library is an awesome resource for children’s books and storytimes. But some folks don’t know that the library also has a ton of fun things for kids and teens to do in addition to reading.
A couple of play tables in the Children’s Pavilion will attract kids’ attention and encourage learning through play.
These events take place at various library branches around town, including the beautiful new Advanced Learning Library branch near downtown, which makes it really convenient to participate in kids’ library activities near you.
P.S. If you aren’t looking for kids’ or teens’ activities at the library, check out the library’s adult classes and events and the technology classes and workshops. You might be surprised at how many there are, and they are every bit as fun and educational!
All of these events for kids and teens are FREE unless otherwise noted.
Just take a scroll through all of the upcoming events. They’re in two sections: one for teens and one for kids. Make note of the ones that require registration so that you don’t miss out!
Events for Teens at the Wichita Public Library
Some of the adult and/or technology events at the library may be suitable for teens, so check those out too.
In-person events at the Wichita Public Library locations have been temporarily suspended; however, there are many online activities still available.
The following activities will all take place online:
Bullet Journaling for Teens: New Year, New Journal
January 12, 2021, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
A new year means a fresh start for your bullet journal! Join as they help you make layouts for organizing the year ahead and chat about journaling. Beginners welcome – just bring a blank notebook and some writing utensils. Ages 12-18. Registration is required; call 261-8500 or register online. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Big Read: Small-Loom Weaving
January 23, 2021, 11:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
The practice of spinning and weaving was an important part of the classical Greek world and is featured prominently in many stories in Greek mythology. Today, weaving is a treasured handicraft and is gaining in popularity. Join us for a fun workshop to explore this craft which is not only affordable but portable too! You can pick up your kit at CityArts or any one of the Wichita Public Library branches the week prior, and then join for a live workshop to learn how to construct your loom and start weaving. Registration is required. Call (316) 261-8500 or visit wichitalibrary.org/events to register. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Big Read Poetry Workshop: Make It New with Northfield School of the Liberal Arts
January 31, 2021, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
In this 60-minute session, participants will encounter a Greek myth, learn how other poets have reinvented that myth, then be led to their own reinvention of that myth. Inspired by Madeline Miller, each student will emerge from the “make-it-new space” with a new work of art: a poem of their own invention. Registration is required; call 261-8500 or register online. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Teen Book Rave
February 4, 2021, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
If you’re a teen who loves books, you can join the Teen Book Rave to talk about your latest favorites, the ones you didn’t like, and what you’re reading next. You’ll learn about brand new books in the library and opportunities for teen readers. Ages 12-18. Registration is required; call 261-8500 or register online. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons: Evening Adventure
February 22, 2021, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Use one of our premade characters as you join in on this newcomer friendly Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition game. Can your character beat the clock to save the town from certain disaster? Join the table and roleplay your way to success, or watch others play as you meet other gaming enthusiasts on the sidelines in the chat. For teens ages 12-18. Registration is required; call 261-8500 or register online. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
Events for Children at the Wichita Public Library
Related: The Ultimate List of Story Times in Wichita
Teen Business Planning
Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Online/Zoom
Be your own boss! Learn about what it takes to open a business as a teen entrepreneur, including what rules and regulations you need to follow. Get ideas for businesses you can start now, and begin brainstorming your own one page business plan. For teens 12-18. Registration is required; call 261-8500 or visit wichitalibrary.org/events to register online. This program will be held online via Zoom. A link to the program will be sent to your inbox the day before and the day of the program.
The Advanced Learning Library’s Childrens Pavilion has books, computers, learning play areas, and comfy seating for both parents and kids.
We’ll try to keep this as updated as possible, but the library just keeps adding fun things to their schedule! Be sure to visit the WPL event calendar for more information and for future activities.
Related:
Classes and Events for Adults at the Wichita Public Library
Free or Cheap Things for Kids to Do in Wichita
