ImagineIF launches fall programming

September kicks off fall programming for ImagineIF libraries, and there’s something in store for all ages.

According to a release from ImagineIF, storytime for kids ages 0-5 returns on September 6. Attendees can sing, dance, read and explore in fun and interactive classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers— with hands-on activities to follow storytime. At the Kalispell branch, preschool storytime will run on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. and babies and toddlers storytime will run on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. In Bigfork, storytime will be held at the Ark Building— the future home of the new Bigfork branch— and will take place on Thursdays at 11 a.m. At the Columbia Falls branch, babies and toddlers storytime will be on Mondays at 11 a.m. and preschool storytime will run on Thursdays at 11 a.m. On their website under the Education tab, you can also find virtual early literacy classes and STEAM activities for kids.

For teens, ImagineIF encourages kids grades 6-12 to stop by and check out their creative scene, which runs all month at Kalispell, Bigfork and Columbia Falls. The activity for September will be felting. Stop by and see what the latest activity is and checkout their online resources as well, which includes access to many academic databases and Creativebug.com— which hosts more than 1,000 arts and craft video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. ImagineIF Marketing and Communications Coordinator Lune Axelsen said patrons should stay tuned for October, when they are planning to announce brand new teen programming.

Teens can also stop by the Kalispell branch’s Teen Zone for Nintendo Switch Days, grades 6-12. They will be alternating between Super Smash Ultimate and Mario Kart 8 every Wednesday in September until 6 p.m.

ImagineIF libraries will be giving away free merch when someone signs up for a library card during September, which is National Library Card month. The promotion is available while supplies last. Patrons who already have a card can bring a friend to sign up and receive a gift as well. Choose from a tote bag, coffee mug, lapel pin, button, or notebook.

Patrons also have the opportunity to see new, local art on display at the Kalispell and Columbia Falls branches. Local artist Tom Roberts will have his oil paintings of Montana wildlife on display at the Kalispell branch, and Keri Keefe vibrant watercolor paintings can be seen at the Columbia Falls branch.

Friends of ImagineIF Libraries will be holding their book club on the second Tuesday of each month. On October 11, they will be discussing “The Splendid and the Vile” by Erik Larson. They meet at 3 p.m. in the meeting room at the Kalispell branch.

All ImagineIF branches are set to be closed on September 5 in honor of Labor Day, as well as September 12 for a staff training day. For more information, go to imagineiflibraries.org.