October 7, 2026 - Library Board Agenda & Packet

AGENDA Library Board of Trustees-Verona Public Library 500 Silent Street Verona, WI 53593 608-845-7180 Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. Library Conference Room Call to order • Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes of 9/2/26 • Review and approval of the September 2026 invoices • Public Comments • City Council Liaison’s report • Library Director's report • Old Business 1. Discussion and possible action regarding the 2027 library budget • New Business 1. Discussion and possible action regarding purchase of study pods 2. Discussion and possible action regarding the 2027 endowment disbursement VPL Board Meeting Minutes Library Board of Trustees-Verona Public Library 500 Silent Street Verona, WI 53593 Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 6:30 p.m. Present: Hopp, Jones, Burkart, Conwell, Franke, Spencer Absent: Miller, Harrison Call to order: Hopp called the meeting to order at 6:13 p.m. Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Conwell, seconded by Franke, to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of August 5, 2026. Motion carried. Spencer motioned, seconded by Jones, to approve the August 2026 invoices. Motion carried. Public Comments: Slideshow and discussion from children’s summer program, led by children’s department staff member. City Council Liaison Report: None Library Director’s Report: 1. “A New Moon Rises” Smithsonian programming. 2. Issues with new ILS system regarding circulation. Old Business: 1. Discussion regarding 2027 budget. Adjournment: A motion was made by Franke, seconded by Conwell, to adjourn. Motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 pm. The next meeting will be held on October 7th, at 6:30pm. Conwell up next for minutes. Director’s Report Verona Public Library, September2026 Circulation Items circulated: this includes all items checked out and renewed from the library, including items requested by patrons from other libraries. Items Circulated 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 Average January 47,842 49,310 48,218 47,722 46,024 47,823 February 43,611 44,262 47,599 46,003 42,218 44,739 March 50,643 52,126 50,433 52,026 49,314 50,908 April 41,796 47,280 45,552 46,674 47,514 45,763 May 41,616 46,806 43,352 44,226 42,775 43,755 June 52,548 58,000 57,330 59,454 52,827 56,032 July 53,875 61,051 60,127 58,102 52,448 57,121 August 52,938 55,597 55,179 58,081 55,184 55,396 September 47,037 46,523 45,429 45,066 46,011 October 45,869 47,097 47,785 42,440 45,798 November 42,023 46,203 44,975 43,939 44,285 December 44,901 44,005 43,655 42,000 43,640 Total 384,869 594,262 591,618 594,132 561,749 585,438 New Library Cards: The number of new library accounts created each month for patrons who reside in the City of Verona, does not reflect patrons’ “home library” selection. Due to the ILS migration, data for April is not available. New Library Cards 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 Average January 148 212 171 188 119 168 February 149 106 176 137 149 143 March 119 212 189 176 155 170 April - 119 150 152 129 138 May 130 108 124 142 140 129 June 215 197 262 290 344 273 July 203 206 217 218 239 217 August 225 207 195 212 206 209 September 121 136 141 141 135 October 114 187 170 150 155 November 122 148 119 144 133 December 111 117 128 122 120 Total 1,059 1,835 2,072 2,073 2,038 2,005 Holds Filled: Number of items checked out from our hold shelves per month, includes items pulled from our collection and items sent from other SCLS libraries. Due to the ILS migration, data for April – Sept is not available yet. Holds Filled 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 Average January 11,477 12,733 11,436 11,882 12,153 11,936 February 10,552 10,100 11,303 10,432 9,722 10,422 March 11,038 11,003 11,091 12,068 10,837 11,227 April 11,034 10,423 10,065 10,780 10,576 May 11,057 10,275 10,358 9,446 10,284 June 11,357 10,845 11,473 10,202 10,969 July 11,910 11,440 10,819 9,537 10,929 August 10,827 10,781 11,192 10,631 10,858 September 10,740 10,620 10,496 10,395 10,563 October 10,363 10,847 10,678 9,434 10,337 November 9,431 10,210 10,129 9,839 9,902 December 9,909 9,743 9,665 9,010 9,952 Total 33,067 130,464 129,014 129,257 121,986 127,680 Reference Reference Statistics August 2026 Computer Lab Use: 897 Test Proctoring: 1 exams Outer Library Loans: 42 requests Personal Archiving Lab Sessions: 2 Library Visits: the number of people who pass through the front entrance of the library, as recorded by the automated people counting sensor. Library Visits 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 Average January 18,202 18,476 16,183 16,114 10,780 15,951 February 17,722 17,627 18,492 15,945 11,193 16,196 March 20,100 20,406 19,457 18,160 13,628 18,397 April 18,925 20,127 17,727 18,062 16,488 18,266 May 18,098 18,158 17,169 16,049 12,366 16,368 June 23,767 24,154 23,528 22,204 16,624 22,055 July 24,159 25,821 23,261 20,232 17,057 22,106 August 24,960 23,134 22,187 22,619 18,830 22,346 September 17,974 17,053 14,958 13,890 15,969 October 19,427 19,832 17,011 14,009 17,570 November 16,624 16,116 16,152 15,729 16,155 December 17,187 15,805 16,190 13,552 16,434 Total 165,933 239,115 226,810 213,696 174,146 213,442 Reference Questions: Number of questions answered per month that qualify as reference questions as defined by the WI Department of Public Instruction. Changes reference question criteria were implemented in September 2024. Reference Questions 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 Average January 1,464 1,338 1,929 1,640 1,061 1,486 February 1,351 1,260 2,161 1,638 1,653 1,613 March 1,540 1,489 1,989 1,830 1,758 1,721 April 1,582 1,747 2,004 1,896 1,226 1,691 May 1,381 1,223 1,995 2,031 1,117 1,549 June 1,609 1,678 2,638 2,487 2,183 2,119 July 1,541 1,734 2,144 2,058 1,691 1,834 August 1,792 1,519 2,242 2,331 2,075 1,992 September 1,491 1,490 1,837 1,341 1,540 October 1,492 1,804 1,840 1,566 1,676 November 1,235 1,340 1,836 1,628 1,510 December 1,307 1,431 1,835 1,356 1,482 Total 12,260 17,513 23,394 23,259 18,655 20,649 Meeting/Study Room Use: The total number of meeting room reservations for the Community Room, Conference Room, and Study Rooms each month as recorded by library room reservation software. Note: The Local History Room was repurposed to staff office space May 2026. Room Use 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 Average January 568 647 560 474 164 483 February 604 636 674 487 206 521 March 575 661 575 524 272 521 April 626 675 569 506 305 536 May 538 606 551 509 328 506 June 522 565 519 422 314 472 July 532 636 490 423 316 479 August 509 565 499 538 411 529 September 588 521 172 327 402 October 664 676 512 398 563 November 554 634 528 453 542 December 529 591 495 396 503 Total 4,474 7,326 6,859 5,590 3,890 5,952 Collection Management Individual Tonies began circulating on September 10. Tonies are hand-painted figurines that play books and music when placed on a Toniebox player. They have a 28-day check-out; no holds; no limit. The original collection of about 60 Tonies was checked out in about 10 days and more have been added. Number of items added to and deleted from the library collection through September 2026. Due to the ILS migration, detailed data for April – September is not available yet. Items Added Books Audio Video games Video Other Magazines Total January 881 2 4 21 0 107 1,015 February 930 6 3 13 12 112 1,076 March 1,046 23 14 31 4 88 1,206 April May 1,319 June 1,171 July 1,156 August 1,181 Sept. 1,051 October November December Total 2,857 31 21 65 16 307 9,175 Items Deleted Books Audio Video games Video Other Magazines Total January 1129 2 0 24 7 209 1,371 February 456 3 0 3 1 50 513 March 986 22 13 20 4 48 1,093 April May 983 June 584 July 726 August 1,205 Sept. 470 October November December Total 2,571 27 13 47 12 307 6,945 Personnel and Staff Development We are in the process of filling two open part-time positions, one Library Assistant and one Youth Services Library Assistant. We have two open Library Page positions that we will leave open until the 2027 budget process is completed. Staff members attended webinars and trainings this month: • SCLS Tech Days webinars, AI with Heart and Generative AI and Library Collections • Psychology of Poverty from Ryan Dowd • Youth-Focused TTRPGs in Public Libraries • Understanding Wisconsin’s Court System • Sustainable Tech Help with Teen Volunteers • SCLS Libby Help Course • Get Your Community Moving: Physical Literacy Programs for All Ages • PLA webinar, News Access and Media Literacy in Public Libraries Equipment and Physical Facilities SCLS indicated that our Lexmark computer lab printer will be inoperative once a month, because of incompatible software updates. We will see an error message asking us to install Drivers on the computers in the Computer Lab. SCLS will either fix that proactively, or we will have to submit a ticket with them each month. Administration and Internal Operations Stacey presented the 2027 library operating budget to the Finance committee. Stacey and staff identified a possible traveling exhibit and created a proposal for the 2027 endowment fund disbursement. Staff continue to struggle with the new ILS system, and most staff have switched to using a desktop version of the software rather than the web-based version because it has fewer glitches. South Central Library System continues to work on the basic getting reports up and running and verifying the accuracy of the data. Marketing and Public Relations Facebook graphics & web/tv slides: 50 Fliers and bookmarks: 49 FB posts: 46 Instagram posts/reels: 2 FB followers: 6,114 Insta followers: 2,172 August Events Newsletter 1: 9,006 recipients; In the spotlight: Summer Library Program August Events Newsletter 2: 8,990 recipients; In the spotlight: Summer Library Program Library System and Interagency Cooperation Staff attended the South Central Library System Circulation Services and Collection Maintenance subcommittee meetings. Fundraising Nothing to report Exhibits A New Moon Rises: September 14 - October 27 Fifty years after the Apollo Moon landings, get ready to see the Moon as you’ve never seen it before. The Moon is not the same place as when astronauts last stepped foot on it. A New Moon Rises, a Build-It-Yourself exhibition from the Smithsonian, features stunning large-scale photographs of the lunar surface captured by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Cameras (LROC) between 2009 and 2015. The highly detailed photographs reveal a celestial neighbor that is surprisingly dynamic and full of grandeur and wonder. Made possible by the Verona Public Library Endowment Fund. A New Moon Rises Kickoff Celebration Monday, September 14, 4:30 – 6:00 pm Join us as we kick-off our latest traveling exhibit, A New Moon Rises! Celebrate with cake, punch, and favors, and view the spectacular photos taken by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC). Over the six weeks of the exhibit, there will be programming related to the Moon for all ages, including crafts, storytimes, educational talks, and even a chance to see actual samples from the Moon. Attendees: 325 Space Trivia Night Monday, September 14, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Designed for ages 6 - adult. Have fun and test your knowledge at a space-themed trivia night! Questions will vary in difficulty and what age they appeal to, so all ages are encouraged to team up together. Snacks will be provided. Attendees: 40 Badger Talk: Lunar and Meterorite Samples Show and Tell Thursday, September 17, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Join Bennett Wilson of the UW-Madison Department of Geology for a discussion of the Moon and its surface and enjoy a unique opportunity to view samples of the Moon as well as meteorites! Bennett Wilson's research explores how liquid water altered the earliest asteroids in our solar system, and the role these bodies may have played in the origin of life. Using meteorites and mission returned samples from hydrated asteroids, he targets alteration minerals with high-precision mass spectrometry and nanoscale spectroscopic techniques to understand how water-rock interactions produced new minerals and organic compounds. This work constrains the conditions under which biorelevant organics and minerals may have emerged on small planetary bodies. Attendees: 83 8 Days: To the Moon and Back Movie Screening Tuesday, September 22, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Join Apollo 11 on its historic journey via this incredible movie. Using a blend of mission audio featuring conversations among Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins with new footage, NASA archive materials, and stunning CGI, this movie recreates the thrill of the first lunar landing. Attendees: 24 The Moon to Mars: NASA’s Artemis Program Thursday, October 1, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Thomas Beatty, Professor of Astronomy at UW-Madison will be here to talk about NASA's Artemis program. According to its goals, through Artemis, NASA will send astronauts on increasingly difficult missions to explore more of the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and to build on our foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars. Dr. Beatty will cover the history of the program from its inception to the recently completed Artemis II mission and what is next. Parent/Child Book Club: The Girl Who Drank the Moon Tuesday, October 6, 5:30pm – 6:30pm In October, Parent/Child Book Club will discuss the novel The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. Share the love of reading! Parent/Child Book Club is for kids ages 8-11 and their parents/caregivers. Each month, we will discuss a novel and enjoy activities and snacks related to the book. Adult Craft: Moon Ornaments Wednesday, October 7, 6:00pm – 7:30pm Make beautiful crescent moon-shaped ornaments out of felt and sequins. Use them as holiday decor, in your car, as bag charms, or whatever you like! Favorite Books & Bites: Moon Base Alpha Series Monday, October 12, 4:00pm – 5:00pm Discuss the Moon Base Alpha series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the books. Pick up a copy of the first book of the series, Space Case by Stuart Gibbs at the children's desk to read in advance, or if you're already a fan, just sign up and join us. Moon Story Time Wednesday, October 14, 6:30pm – 7:00pm For ages 2-6. Join us for stories and songs about the Moon! Starlab: Exploring the Night Sky Friday, October 23, 2026 10:00 – 11:15am, 12:30 – 1:45pm, 2:15 – 3:30pm, 4:00 – 5:15pm For all ages. Explore the night sky in a Starlab Portable Planetarium! Presented by Paul Kinzer, director of Seeing Stars, an organization that aims to make exploration of the night sky easy and fun for schools and libraries. Please register for only one session and sign up each person who will be entering the portable planetarium. Full Moon Luminary Hike Monday, October 26, 5:30pm – 7:30pm (Rain date will be October 27) For all ages. Celebrate the magic of a full moon and the fun of Halloween with an evening of family-friendly outdoor adventure! Join Dane County Parks, the Ice Age Trail Alliance, and Verona Public Library for a special full moon hike at Badger Prairie County Park. Enjoy a self-guided one-mile loop hike along the Ice Age Trail, illuminated by festive luminaries. Decorate your own walking stick and warm up with s'mores, hot cocoa, and cider at the Badger Prairie Park shelter. Stop by the Verona Public Library parking lot to create a moon-themed craft. Please note: This is an outdoor event, participants are encouraged to bring a headlamp or flashlight. Mammoth Hike Challenge participants will earn 5 bonus miles for attending. Library Events and Programs Summer Reading Program Participated Finished Prize books claimed Extra activities completed Kids, ages 0-5 755 307 - N/A Kids, ages 6-11 1404 657 3442 (ages 0-11) N/A Teens, ages 12- 17 400 168 587 1,218 Adults, 18+ *2000 72 N/A N/A Totals: 4,559 1,204 4,029 1,218 *2000-3000 adult summer reading bingo cards picked up, no registration for the adult program. Kids’ Events Events Participation in the Kids Summer Reading Program was very similar to last year, which is good news since 2025 and 2024 saw slight declines in participation. 1000 Books before Kindergarten 14 kids were registered this month, bringing the total number of registrants to 3030. Read to a Dog Tuesday, August 25, 3:00 – 4:30 pm For ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Attendees: 11 Kindermusik Thursday, August 27, 9:30 – 10:00 am For ages 0-5. The Wonder Studio presents a demo Kindermusik class for ages 0-5 and accompanying adult. Come sing, play, and move with us! Attendees: 51 Bingo & Banana Splits! Thursday, August 27, 12:30 – 1:30 pm, 2:00 – 3:00 pm For ages 5-11. Come play bingo, enjoy some ice cream, and win a fun prize! Not many kids opted for bananas, but we did get rid of some more kick-off ice cream. Attendees: 17, 28 Minecraft Club Thursday, September 3, 4:30 – 5:30 pm For ages 7-11. Play Minecraft in both creative and survival worlds! Join the library's shared Realm and play with other kids in the club. Attendees: 21 Music & Movement Story Time Tuesday, September 8, 10:30 – 11:00 am For ages 1-5. Join us for an active Music and Movement Story Time, which includes singing, dancing, instruments, and stories. Attendees: 123 Parent/Child Book Club: Wonder Tuesday, September 8, 5:30 – 6:30 pm For ages 8-11. In September, Parent/Child Book Club will discuss the novel Wonder by R.J. Palacio. This beloved chapter book drew a large crowd. Attendees: 20 Pokémon Club Thursday, September 10, 4:00 – 5:00 pm Ages 6-11. Join fellow Pokémon fanatics for a Pokémon related activity each month. Bring your Gameboy, Switch, or learn to play the trading card game and compete against other kids! Bring your own deck or borrow one of ours. Attendees: 49 Crochet Workshop Friday, September 11, 3:30 – 4:30 pm Cancelled by presenter. Beginning Crochet Friday, September 11, 4:30 – 5:30 pm Cancelled by presenter. Read to a Dog Saturday, September 12, 1:30 – 3:00 pm For ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Attendees: 11 Space Trivia Night Monday, September 14, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Designed for ages 6 - adult. Have fun and test your knowledge at a space-themed trivia night! Questions will vary in difficulty and what age they appeal to, so all ages are encouraged to team up together. Snacks will be provided. Modeled after the popular dinosaur trivia program we did earlier this summer, this pub-style trivia program got a lot of positive feedback from all ages. Attendees: 40 Child Development Story Time Tuesday, September 15, 10:30 – 11:00 am Designed for ages 2-5. Join a member of CI Pediatric Therapy Centers' staff for an interactive story time of books, songs, movement, crafts and fun! Attendees: 48 Pigs and Parties Story Time Wednesday, September 16, 6:30 – 7:00 pm For ages 2-6. Join us for stories and songs about pigs who party! Attendees: 45 Favorite Books & Bites: The Front Desk Series Monday, September 21, 4:00 – 5:00 pm For ages 8-11. Discuss the Front Desk series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the books. Attendees: 12 Spanish Story Time/Hora de Cuentos Tuesday, September 22, 10:30 – 11:00 am Designed for ages 3-5. Para edades 3-5. Join Mr. Ricardo for Spanish story time, an event where kiddos and caregivers can participate in interactive activities such as music and songs, finger plays, bounces, rhythms, rhymes, puppets and more. Acompaña al señor Ricardo para cuentos infantiles en un evento donde los nenes y los “adultos” pueden participar en actividades interactivas como música y canciones, juego de dedos, movimientos, rimas, ritmos, títeres y mas. The attendees, who were primarily Spanish speakers, all asked Mr. Ricardo where else he would be doing story time in the area. Attendees: 15 Upcoming Kids’ Events Fall Story Time September 9 – October 23 Baby Story Time: Fridays at 10:30 am Toddler Story Time: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 9:30 am Preschool Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 am Sensory Story Time: Thursdays at 9:30 am Everybody Story Time: Thursdays at 10:30 am Story Time Mending September 24, October 7, October 15 and October 22, 9:00 – 11:00 am For adults. Does your child have a favorite toy with a dangling arm or missing eye? Has their beloved baby quilt sprouted a hole or a torn binding? Local resident Nancy will offer free mending services during story times. She will attempt to fix your item right away or she will notify you if she needs more time or materials. No zipper replacements please. Toddler Art and Play Tuesday, September 29, 10:00 – 11:00 am For ages 1-3. Toddler Art and Play is a drop-in program that includes messy process art and sensory play for toddlers ages 1-3. We recommend wearing clothes that can get messy. Read to a Dog Tuesday, September 29, 4:00 – 5:30 pm For ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Minecraft Club Thursday, October 1, 4:30 – 5:30 pm For ages 7-11. Play Minecraft in both creative and survival worlds! Join the library's shared Realm and play with other kids in the club. Read to a Dog Saturday, October 3, 1:30 – 3:00 pm For ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Music & Movement Story Time Tuesday, October 6, 10:30 – 11:00 am For ages 1-5. Join us for an active Music and Movement Story Time, which includes singing, dancing, instruments, and stories. Parent/Child Book Club: The Girl Who Drank the Moon Tuesday, October 6, 5:30 – 6:30 pm For ages 8-11. In October, Parent/Child Book Club will discuss the novel The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. Pokémon Club Thursday, October 8, 4:00 – 5:00 pm Ages 6-11. Join fellow Pokémon fanatics for a Pokémon related activity each month. Bring your Gameboy, Switch, or learn to play the trading card game and compete against other kids! Bring your own deck or borrow one of ours. Crochet Workshop Friday, October 9, 3:30 – 4:30 pm For ages 8 - adult. Crochet help for if you’re stuck, need guidance on a new skill or stitch, or just picking out a new project! Sessions are either 15 minutes or 30 minutes. No knitting please. Assistance provided by Mara from The Sow's Ear. Beginning Crochet Friday, October 9, 4:30 – 5:30 pm For ages 8-15. Learn the basics of crochet like holding the yarn and hook, chaining, and the single crochet stitch with Mara from the Sow's Ear. Yarn and tools will be provided. New and repeat class members are welcome! Favorite Books & Bites: Moon Base Alpha Series Monday, October 12, 4:00 – 5:00 pm For ages 8-11. Discuss the Moon Base Alpha series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the books. Moon Story Time Wednesday, October 14, 6:30 – 7:00 pm For ages 2-6. Join us for stories and songs about the Moon! Starlab: Exploring the Night Sky Friday, October 23, 10:00 – 11:15 am, 12:30 – 1:45 pm, 2:15 – 3:30 pm, 4:00 – 5:15 pm For all ages. Explore the night sky in a Starlab Portable Planetarium! Presented by Paul Kinzer, director of Seeing Stars, an organization that aims to make exploration of the night sky easy and fun for schools and libraries. Please register for only one session and sign up each person who will be entering the portable planetarium. This Friday is a day off school in Verona. Child Development Story Time Tuesday, October 27, 10:30 – 11:00 am Designed for ages 2-5. Join a member of CI Pediatric Therapy Centers' staff for an interactive story time of books, songs, movement, crafts and fun! Kindermusik: Fall! Wednesday, October 28, 9:30 – 10:00 am For ages 0-5. The Wonder Studio presents a demo Kindermusik class with a fall theme for ages 0-5 and accompanying adult. Come sing, play, and move with us! Costume Dance Party Thursday, October 29, 10:00 = 10:45 am Designed for ages 0-4. Wear a costume and boogie to kid-friendly tunes. Read to a Dog Friday, October 30, 4:00 – 5:15 pm For ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Teen Events Teen Summer Challenge Summary Ages 12-18 Registration was slightly lower this year, but event and challenge engagement – including finishing – was higher overall. Our teen volunteer participation was also significantly higher, which was so helpful! There were 24 teen programs with a total attendance of 243 over the summer. Teens also logged optional challenges for extra chances to win grand prizes. They ranged from growing something, to attending a live event, to reading specific types of books, to having a picnic, etc. Some activities and teen responses: 24 hour shutdown (of technology): “Played with model trains, baked bread, played with my brother,” “I read, golfed, and built Legos with my cousins,” “I spent most my time outside playing volleyball or in our garden, or organizing my cards and other collectables.” Be Kind: “I helped my little cousin complete a project, to build a flashlight and pinball machine from a kit,” “Mowed elderly neighbor’s yard after she had to be put in assisted living while her house was being sold,” “Partnered with the kid no one wanted to be partners with at summer camp,” “I made a dance party for my younger siblings.” Fresh Sound (ask a friend or relative about their favorite artist and explore new music): “I intentionally listened to the soundtrack of a movie my friend watched recently that she really liked (k pop demon hunters); I loved the music. It was so well done, and every measure was super catchy.” “Country; Meh.” “Digital Underground at BratFest; They were really good! My mom bought be a hat and I got it autographed.” “Motown; Fun to dance to.” “Queen's greatest hits on my cassette tape; I thought that this is the best rock opera band ever.” Crafty Tuesday Tuesday, August 4, 4:00 pm Stop by Teen Central for DIY projects. Create throughout the week, as supplies last. Comments: Teens did foil art Attendees: 7 Chat & Chew Book Club: The Charlie Thorne Series Wednesday, September 9, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Each month we will discuss a standalone book or a series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the book(s). Comments: Participants completed an escape room activity, solving codes, ciphers, and clues to “escape a water park.” Attendees: 2 Donuts & Gaming Thursday, September 17, 4:00 – 5:30 pm Snack on donuts and more! Face off on the Nintendo Switch or SNES, try a board game or puzzle, or bring your own device. Stay and enjoy the good vibes or drop in for a sweet treat! Attendees: 1 Upcoming Teen Events ACT/SAT and College Planning Strategies (Webinar) Monday, September 28, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Join Heidi King from College Inside Track in this free webinar. Conquer college planning! Learn about revamped ACT/SAT, how to stand out, and smart strategies to boost acceptance and scholarship success. Essential information for parents of high school students in grades 9-11. German Student Escape Rooms Wednesday, September 30, 1 – 3 pm VAHS exchange students from Germany will get an introduction to Verona Public Library via an Escape Room game where they will solve clues and open locks. Crafty Tuesday Tuesday, October 6, 4:00 pm Stop by Teen Central for DIY projects. Create throughout the week, as supplies last. Chat & Chew Book Club: Fuzzy Mud Wednesday, October 7, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Each month we will discuss a standalone book or a series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the book(s). BRMS Make’n’munch Thursday, October 15, 11:00 – 1:30 pm Students at Badger Ridge Middle School who have signed up for library during lunch can enjoy some crafting time. Haunted Puppet Workshop Thursday, October 22, 6:00 – 8:00 pm Craft a new friend to haunt your dreams – or ideally, the dreams of others. Starting with a basic frame, add costume, facial, and hair design with a variety of materials. From fabric paint to sequins, and alcohol inks to creepy add-ons, choose your method of madness! Messy crafter? Tip: wear clothing that can be stained. Donuts & Gaming Thursday, October 29, 4:00 – 5:30 pm Snack on donuts and more! Face off on the Nintendo Switch or SNES, try a board game or puzzle, or bring your own device. Stay and enjoy the good vibes or drop in for a sweet treat! Friday Night: Murder Mystery Friday, October 30, 7:00 – 8:30 pm Get out for a haunting night of fun, games, and new people! Solve an after-hours murder at the library by searching for clues, cracking codes, and opening locks. Find the answer before the culprit strikes again! Costumes encouraged! Adult Events Distance Learning English Classes for Adults Mondays 6:00 – 7:30 pm, Level: Beginner Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Level: Intermediate This free group English class will be offered mostly online using Zoom. You will practice speaking, listening, reading, writing and new vocabulary in English. This class is presented in partnership with Literacy Network. September 14, attendees: 12 September 15, attendees: 2 September 21, attendees: 14 September 22, attendees: 2 Drop-In Tech Help Tuesdays, 9:00 – 11:00 am Struggling with your phone, tablet or laptop? Simply drop by the library on a Tuesday or Thursday between the hours of 9:00 -11:00 am for help from a knowledgeable librarian. Bring your questions about topics like getting started with the Libby app, setting up an email account, word processing, storing pictures, navigating social media platforms, and troubleshooting software issues. August 25, attendees: 9 September 1, attendees: 3 September 8, attendees: 4 Library Yarns Craft Group Wednesdays, 4:30 – 6:00 pm If you enjoy knitting, crocheting, embroidery, or another needlecraft, please join us at this weekly drop-in stitching circle hosted by the library. Meet up with other fiber art enthusiasts, learn new techniques, exchange ideas, or find inspiration for your next project. August 26, attendees: 12 September 2, attendees: 9 September 9, attendees: 14 September 16, attendees: 14 September 23, attendees: 28 Scrabble Club Every other Thursday, 10:00 – 11:30 am Do you enjoy playing Scrabble, or would you like to learn to play? Join this friendly group, which will meet every other Thursday! Game boards will be provided! August 27, attendees: 5 September 10, attendees: 4 Memory Café Tuesday, September 1, 3:30 – 5:00 pm A "memory café" is a social gathering designed for individuals experiencing early dementia and memory loss, along with their caregivers or loved ones. Come to connect, socialize, and build support networks in a comfortable and welcoming environment centered around conversation over coffee. Attendees: 5 Making Mini Memory Albums: Summer Memories Tuesday, September 1, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Join Traci Rather of Plum Crazy Stamping for this fun workshop to capture your summer memories in a beautiful format. Attendees: 20 The Milton House & The Underground Railroad Wednesday, September 2, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Learn about the many purposes of the historic Milton House structure, the history of America in the tumultuous years leading up to the Civil War, the importance of the Underground Railroad in the United States, and how the Underground Railroad operated in Milton. Attendees: 37 Making Sense of Senior Care Living Options Thursday, September 3, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Join Wendy Kempf of Heritage Senior Living for an easy-to-understand look at the different levels of senior care to help residents and families make sense of available options and plan for the future with confidence. Attendees: 18 Bathroom Renovations with Project Home Tuesday, September 8, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Are you dreaming of a new bathroom? This talk provides the essential knowledge you need to tackle a renovation with confidence. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning to work with a professional, this talk will equip you with the knowledge to ensure your bathroom renovation is a success. Attendees: 20 Card Making Workshop: Winnie the Pooh Wednesday, September 9, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Join Jamie Statz-Paynter in a workshop to make beautiful cards for any occasion that feature Winnie the Pooh and friends. All equipment and supplies will be provided for participants to make four cards each. Attendees: 20 The Joy of Connections Workshop: Communication and Connection Thursday, September 10, 6:30 – 8:00 pm This is an opportunity for people to come together for education, conversation, and activities meant to foster meaningful and authentic connections with other people. In this workshop, we will discuss and explore communication and its role in authentically connecting with other people. Please note that, though this is being led by a licensed professional counselor, this workshop is for educational purposes only. Attendees: 3 Historical Fiction Book Club Friday, September 11, 10:00 – 11:00 am This month we will read and discuss How Much of These Hills is Gold by Pam Zhang. Attendees: 9 Verona Aspiring Writers Group Monday, September 14, 7:00 – 8:00 pm The Aspiring Writers Group offers constructive feedback and inspiration to writers and aspiring writers of all genres. Want to get a blog started or grow one? Hoping to be published in a magazine? Trying to finish or fine-tune the next great American novel? We welcome all! Attendees: 13 Travel Talk with Joe Fahey: Japan Tuesday, September 15, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Life in Japan can be very foreign to those of us living in the west. Joe Fahey spent a year in Japan and is well versed in its culture. In this presentation he will share the customs that guide everyday life, ranging from social rules to food and sports. Attendees: 56 VPL Cookbook Club: Food that is Stuffed or Filled Wednesday, September 16, 6:30 – 8:00 pm From ravioli to french toast and everything in between, this month, we will celebrate food that is stuffed or filled. Attendees: 16 A Taste for Mystery Book Club Monday, September 21, 10:00 – 11:00 am This month we will read and discuss No One Will Miss Her, by Kat Rosenfeld. Attendees: 12 Wisconsin Prisoner War Camps Monday, September 21, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Most people are unaware that Wisconsin had POW (Prisoner of War) camps during WWII and are surprised to learn that there were 38 of them having a total of approximately 20,000 POWs. This presentation provides an overview of US POWs and POW camps and specific information regarding WI POW camps. Presented by Bob Block, who recently gave the WI Crime Lab Talk. Attendees: 61 Wills & Trusts Planning Workshop Tuesday, September 22, 10:00 – 11:30 am Mark Farnan of Retirement Income Planning, LLC will lead this informative workshop detailing ways that wills and trusts can work together to protect your assets from excessive taxation, lengthy probate, and family disputes upon your passing and even during your retirement. Come and get the estate planning strategies you need to ensure your intentions are clear and your investments are maximized. Attendees: 26 Occupaws: Guide Puppies in the Community Wednesday, September 23, 6:30 – 7:30 pm OccuPaws Guide Dog Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Madison, WI, is an International Guide Dog Federation-accredited school. Through an in-home training program, the Association provides fully trained guide dogs at no cost to visually impaired residents of Wisconsin. Don't miss this special opportunity to learn more about this organization, meet some guide puppies in training, and to learn how you can help raise future guide dogs. Attendees: 12 humans and 7 very special dogs White Jasmine Cooking Class Thursday, September 24, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Huma Siddiqui-Seitz of White Jasmine joins us once again for a fun and delicious evening of traditional Pakistani cooking. This evening's menu will feature: Tandoori Meatballs with Fragrant Lentil Rice. CANCELLED DUE TO PRESENTER ILLNESS Upcoming Adult Events Distance Learning English Classes for Adults September 14 – December 8 Mondays 6:00 – 7:30 pm, Beginner Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Intermediate This class is offered mostly online using Zoom. Practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English. Students will receive free English textbooks by mail. In partnership with Literacy Network. Drop-In Tech Help Tuesdays, 9:00 – 11:00 am Struggling with your phone, tablet or laptop? Simply drop by the library on a Tuesday or Thursday between the hours of 9:00 -11:00 am for help from a knowledgeable librarian. Bring your questions about topics like getting started with the Libby app, setting up an email account, word processing, storing pictures, navigating social media platforms, and troubleshooting software issues. Memory Café First Tuesday of each month, 3:30 – 5:00 pm A "memory café" is a social gathering designed for individuals experiencing early dementia and memory loss, along with their caregivers or loved ones. Come to connect, socialize, and build support networks in a comfortable and welcoming environment centered around conversation over coffee. Library Yarns Wednesdays, 4:30 – 6:00 pm If you enjoy knitting, crochet, embroidery, or another needlecraft, please join us at this weekly drop-in stitching circle hosted by the library. All skill levels and fiber arts are welcome. Meet up with other fiber art enthusiasts, learn new techniques, exchange ideas, or find inspiration for your next project. LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate & Author Kathy La Plante Saturday, October 3, 10:00 – 11:00 am Celebrate Pride Month and a beautiful storyteller by coming to hear from local author Kathy La Plante. Kathy is a Navy veteran, retired archaeologist, and advocate for/historian of LGBTQ+ rights in the US military. Her book, The Summons: A Call to Love, is powerful novel of found family, redemption, and the enduring strength of women in war in the face of discrimination against members of the LGBTQIA community. Learn the fascinating story of how Kathy brought this book to publication at the age of 72 and hear about how her life experiences shaped its narrative. Fall Knit-Along Monday, October 5, 12, 19 and 26, 4:30 – 6:30 pm Join us for a fall Knit-Along of the Aran Adventure Socks by Laurie Sand. This pattern features medium-weight yarn (works up quickly!) and showcases traditional sweater motifs such as cables and seed stitch. Dead People of Illinois Tuesday, October 6, 6:30 – 8:00 pm We've looked at a lot of Wisconsin lore - now let's head to Illinois to find some more spooky stories! Join us for a fun and educational survey of the hundreds of cemeteries in Illinois to find the most interesting graves/headstones, the silliest names, and some very intriguing stories of the lives and deaths of our neighbors to the south! Scrabble Club Thursday, October 8, 15, 22 and 29 Do you enjoy playing Scrabble, or would you like to learn to play? Join this friendly group, which will meet every other Thursday! Game boards will be provided! Joy of Connections Workshop: Boundaries and Connection Thursday, October 8, 6:30 – 8:00 pm This is an opportunity for people to come together for education, conversation, and activities meant to foster meaningful and authentic connections with other people. In this workshop, we will discuss and explore boundaries and their role in authentically connecting with other people. The facilitator will provide information about types and categories of boundaries and how to hold them. Then, you will have a chance to discuss and/or contemplate the boundaries you create for yourself and how they show up in your life. Please note that, though the facilitator is a licensed professional counselor, this workshop is for educational purposes only. Historical Fiction Book Club Friday, October 9, 10:00 – 11:00 am In October, we will read and discuss A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende. Jazz Performance: Quintette du Hot Club de France Monday, October 12, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Enjoy the upbeat, jazzy stylings of this talented guitar group, in from France, which is a continuation of the group begun in the 1930s by the legendary Django Reinhardt. Cooking with Bess from the Halo Halo Food Court Tuesday, October 13, 6:00 – 7:30 pm Join Bess, chef and owner of the Halo Halo Food Cart, known for comfort inspired Asian food, as she demonstrates how to make a delicious signature recipe. Salem Witch Portrayal Thursday, October 15, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Step back into the year 1692, when fear, superstition and mass hysteria gripped the Puritan town of Salem, MA. In this chilling portrayal, historical presenter Michelle Gibbons will embody the voice of one of the countless women accused of witchcraft during the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Hear "firsthand" what it was like to live under suspicion, accused of dark, unthinkable crimes for which the only evidence was rumor, fear and prejudice. A Taste for Mystery Book Club Monday, October 19, 10:00 – 11:00 am This month we will read and discuss The Murder Wheel, by Tom Meade. VPL Cookbook Club: Oktoberfest! Tuesday, October 20, 6:30 – 8:00 pm This month we celebrate the wonders of bratwurst, spaetzle, giant pretzels and more as we pay homage to German cuisine. Understanding and Maximizing Executive Functioning Wednesday, October 21, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Executive functioning refers to the set of skills we use to manage everyday tasks like making plans, solving problems and adapting to new situations. Everyone possesses executive functioning ability to some degree, but most of us could stand to build and enhance the way we use it. Join Dr. Sarah Porter and Executive Functioning Coach Jill Dove of Madison Neuropsychological Services, LLC, for this informative and instructive look at executive functioning and hear about some tools you can use to maximize the way you use it to thrive. Verona Aspiring Writers Group Monday, October 26, 7:00 – 8:00 pm The Aspiring Writers Group offers constructive feedback and inspiration to writers and aspiring writers of all genres. Want to get a blog started or grow one? Hoping to be published in a magazine? Trying to finish or fine-tune the next great American novel? We welcome all! Paper Crafting: Inspirational Gifts Tuesday, October 27, 3:00 –5:30 pm Join Traci Raether of Plum Crazy Stamping for a fun and artistic workshop during which you will make framed inspirational art. Gift the final product to a special someone or keep the message for yourself! THE BETTY J. KARWEICK VIRTUAL AUTHOR TALKS SERIES Welcome to The Betty J. Karweick Virtual Author Talks Series, presented in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. Here you will have access to live virtual visits including interactive questions and answers with bestselling authors and talks on a broad assortment of topics given by experts in their fields. Recordings of talks will be available for viewing after the live event. Author Talk: When Trees Testify: Reclaiming America’s Black Botanical Legacy Tuesday, August 25, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Total Views: 54 Author Talk: High Altitudes and High Stakes: A Miss Marple Mystery with Lucy Foley Thursday, August 27, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Total Views: 25 Author Talk: The Democracy We Must Keep with David O. Stewart Tuesday, September 1, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Total Views: 6 Author Talk: Daniel Kraus Tuesday, September 8, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Total Views: 16 Author Talk: The Art of Fighting with Priya Parker Tuesday, September 15, 3:00 – 4:00 pm Total Views: 21 Upcoming Events: Author Talk: Veronica Roth Thursday, October 1, :00 – 7:00 pm Join bestselling author Veronica Roth as we celebrate the enduring legacy of her Divergent series and get an exclusive sneak peek into her highly anticipated upcoming novel, The Sixth Faction! Author Talk: Reinventing Postmodernism with the Simthsonian Thursday, October 8, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Join us for a captivating online conversation with acclaimed author and Smithsonian curator Carolyn Russo as we dive into her fascinating book, The Ascent of Rauschenberg. Author Talk: The Power of Limits with David Epstein Tuesday, October 13, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Join us for an inspiring virtual conversation with bestselling author David Epstein as we explore his latest book, Inside the Box. Outreach Outreach Events Outreach story times: Total daycare story time presentations: 6 VASD Staff Wellness Fair Monday, August 24, 7:20–8:00 am Marissa staffed a table at the high school promoting teacher library cards and other library services for all teachers in the district. Comments: Many teachers expressed their love of the library and enjoyed grabbing some library swag! Attendees: 147 Four Winds Book Group Tuesday, August 25, and Tuesday, September 22, 10:00–11:00 am The residents met to discuss The Long Flight Home by Alan Hlad and Gone Before Goodbye by Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben. Attendees: 6, 4 Noel Manor Book Group Wednesday, August 26, and Wednesday, September 23, 10:30–11:30 am The group discussed The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb and The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritsen. Comments: A new resident joined the group in August. Attendees: 8, 5 Stoner Prairie Back to School Night Wednesday, August 26, 4:00–6:00 pm Marissa brought library card applications, event calendars, and library swag for families attending the back to school night. Comments: Students loved getting a library-branded, color- changing pencil! Attendees: 71 Prairie Oaks Book Group Thursday, August 27, and Thursday, September 24, 1:30–2:30 pm The group will read Dead Wake by Erik Larson and How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin. Comments: The group loved the August book and mentioned how much history they learned from it. Attendees: 3, 4 Books and Booze at Stone Porch Alehouse Thursday, August 27, 6:00–7:00 pm The group discussed Buckeye by Patrick Ryan. Attendees: 19 Story Time at The Sow’s Ear Tuesday, September 8, 10:00–10:30 am Join us for story time at The Sow's Ear! Enjoy a story time, craft project, and other activities for children and their caregivers. Geared toward ages 2-5, siblings welcome. Attendees: 30 Senior Center Book Group Wednesday, September 9, 10:00–11:00 am The group discussed The Stolen Life of Collette Marceau by Kristin Harmel. Comments: Due to a flooring project at the senior center, the group met at the library this month. Attendees: 21 Book Bike Events • Big Apple Learning Academy, August 20, attendees: 74 Comments: Families checked out so many books at this event; they loved having the book bike there! • Ian’s Pizza, August 26, attendees: 5 • The Goddard School, August 27, attendees: 24 • Badger Prairie Needs Network, September 3, Cancelled due to weather Upcoming Outreach Events Books and Booze at Stone Porch Alehouse Thursday, September 24, 6:00–7:00 pm The group will be discussing The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford. Verona Fall Fest Friday, September 25, 4:00–7:00 pm Amy and Marissa will be bringing an autumn-themed craft and books to giveaway at the annual Verona Fall Fest. Story Time at The Sow’s Ear Tuesday, October 13, 10:00–10:30 am Join us for story time at The Sow's Ear! Enjoy a story time, craft project, and other activities for children and their caregivers. Geared toward ages 2-5, siblings welcome. Senior Center Book Group Wednesday, October 14, 10:00–11:00 am The group will be reading The Martian by Andy Weir. Prairie Oaks Book Group Thursday, October 15, 1:30–2:30 pm The group will be discussing The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams. Four Winds Book Group Tuesday, October 27, 10:00–11:00 am The residents will meet to discuss The Stolen Life of Collette Marceau by Kristin Harmel. Noel Manor Book Group Wednesday, October 28, 10:30–11:30 am The group will be reading The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff.