June 3, 2026 - Library Board Agenda & Packet

AGENDA Library Board of Trustees-Verona Public Library 500 Silent Street Verona, WI 53593 608-845-7180 Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. Library Conference Room Call to order • Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes of 5/6/26 • Review and approval of the May 2026 invoices • Public Comments • City Council Liaison’s report • Library Director's report • Old Business 1. Discussion regarding donor recognition policy 2. Preliminary discussion of 2027 library budget Library Board Meeting Notes Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. Library Conference Room Attendees: Present: Stacey Burkart, Chris Hopp, Kyle Jones, Skylar Franke, Lisa Miller, Rikki Conwell, Spencer Harrison Absent: Karen Spencer Call to Order: Hopp called the meeting to order at 6:30 Introductions of new members Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes of 4/8/26 Minutes Approval: Franke Moved / Miller Seconded / Motion carries Review and approval of the October 2025 invoices Invoice Approval: Jones Moved / Harrison Seconded / Motion carries Public Comments No visitors from the public City Council Liaison’s report Harrison shared updates on city planning activities. Library Director's report Burkart reviewed the contents of directors report. Reviewed new SCLS system rollout Old Business 1. Discussion and update on the Library Space Needs Assessment Board discussed OPN update and next steps for future. 2. Discussion regarding donor recognition policy Board discussed future options around donor recognition and comparable policies elsewhere. Stacey to add the creation of a policy for future discussion. New Business 1. Preliminary discussion of 2027 library budget. Board discussed request for additional hours of operations. Reviewed patron usage of reservable rooms and the potential addition of POD spaces. Additional budget priorities being collected. Adjournment: A motion to adjourn was made by Conwell. Seconded by Harrison. Adjournment approved Director’s Report Verona Public Library, May 2026 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 41,819 47,280 45,552 46,674 47,514 45,768 May 46,806 43,352 44,226 42,775 44,290 June 58,000 57,330 59,454 52,827 56,903 July 61,051 60,127 58,102 52,448 57,932 August 55,597 55,179 58,081 55,184 56,010 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 183,915 594,262 591,618 594,132 561,749 585,438 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 yet. 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 108 124 142 140 129 June 197 262 290 344 273 July 206 217 218 239 220 August 207 195 212 206 205 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 416 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 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 April 2026 Computer Lab Use: 721 Test Proctoring: 4 exams Outer Library Loans: 55 requests Personal Archiving Lab Sessions: 4 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 18,158 17,169 16,049 12,366 15,936 June 24,154 23,528 22,204 16,624 21,628 July 25,821 23,261 20,232 17,057 21,593 August 23,134 22,187 22,619 18,830 21,693 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 74,949 239,115 226,810 213,696 174,146 213,442 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 1,223 1,995 2,031 1,117 1,592 June 1,678 2,638 2,487 2,183 2,247 July 1,734 2,144 2,058 1,691 1,907 August 1,519 2,242 2,331 2,075 2,042 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 4,355 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. 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 606 551 509 328 499 June 565 519 422 314 460 July 636 490 423 316 466 August 565 499 538 411 534 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 2,373 7,326 6,859 5,590 3,890 5,952 Collection Management Two mini-Yoto kits were introduced to our children’s kit collections, one for big kids and one for little kids. The Facebook posts introducing them received over 400 positive responses. They currently have 10 and 16 holds and we’re ordering another little kids’ kit right away. We’re also looking into circulating individual Tonies and Yotos, which have storage, shelving, and circulation decisions associated with them. Number of items added to and deleted from the library collection through March 2026. Due to the software migration, a technical services freeze started March 31 and lasted through April 16. Due to the ILS migration, data for April 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 June July August Sept. October November December Total 2,857 31 21 65 16 307 3,297 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 June July August Sept. October November December Total 2,571 27 13 47 12 307 2,977 Personnel and Staff Development A reference staff member attended WAPL as tech chair and co-hosted the program, More Than Play: Gaming in Public Libraries. Staff members attended a Ryan Dowd webinar, Science of Conflict. Equipment and Physical Facilities Staff worked with Envisionware to install the four new self-check-out machines on May 7. The LED light bulb replacement project is starting this week and we hope to see significant energy and cost savings once the project is complete. Administration and Internal Operations Staff continue to learn the new ILS system and report system downtime and issues. The library management team continued discussions of 2027 budget priorities. Marketing and Public Relations Facebook graphics & web/tv slides: 84 Fliers and bookmarks: 69 FB posts: 101 Instagram posts/reels: 10 FB followers: 5,935 Insta followers: 2,051 April Events Newsletter 1: 8,890 recipients; In the spotlight: A new version of LINKcat will go live on April 17 April Events Newsletter 2: 8,868 recipients; In the spotlight: A new version of LINKcat will go live on April 17 Staff attended our internal monthly marketing meeting on April 28. Library System and Interagency Cooperation Youth Services staff worked with BRMS librarian Melanie Galdes to facilitate programming at the middle school. Management staff attended several South Central Library System committee meetings this month. Fundraising The donor mural at the entrance to the children’ area was completed and donor leaves were attached to the wall. Exhibits Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unitarian Meeting House at 75 April 27 – May 8 This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Unitarian Meeting House, widely regarded as one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most significant achievements. Through a blend of narrative and archival photographs and documents, this exhibit explores the planning, construction, and preservation of this deeply personal work—a National Historic Landmark that redefined the concept of sacred space since its completion in 1951. Library Events and Programs 1000 Books before Kindergarten 10 kids were registered this month, bringing the total number of registrants to 2964. Kids’ Events Spring Story Time March 30 – May 8 Baby Story Time: Fridays at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm Toddler Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays 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 Baby Story Time: 12 story times, attendees: 162, average: 14 Toddler Story Time: 11 story times, attendees: 386, average: 35 Preschool Story Time: 10 story times, attendees: 335, average: 34 Sensory Story Time: 7 story times, attendees: 319, average: 46 Everybody Story Time: 6 story times, attendees: 164, average: 27 Total: 46 story times, 1366 attendees Spring Story Time Saturday, April 25, 9:30 – 10:00 am Designed for ages 0-5. Join us for a spring-themed story time with books, songs, and rhymes. Attendees: 33 Read to a Dog Saturday, April 25, 1:30 – 3:00 pm Ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Attendees: 2 Favorite Books & Bites: Chronicles of Narnia Monday, April 27, 4:00 – 5:00 pm For ages 8-11. Discuss the Chronicles of Narna series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the books. Pick up a copy of the first book of the series, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis at the children's desk to read in advance, or if you're already a fan, just sign up and join us. Attendees: 11 Child Development Story Time Tuesday, April 28, 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: 42 Story Time Mending Wednesday, April 29 and May 6, 9:30 – 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? Does your child insist on wearing that sweatshirt with the loose pocket? Local resident Nancy will offer free mending services during story time on Wednesdays. Attendees: 0 Free Comic Book Day Saturday, May 3, 10:30 am – 3:00 pm Designed for ages 6-17. Drop by the Verona Library to pick up some free comics for kids and teens. Comics available while supplies last. Thanks to Westfield Comics for partnering with us so we could provide comics for our community! Participants: 112 Music & Movement Story Time Tuesday, May 5, 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: 32 Parent/Child Book Club: Island of the Blue Dolphins Tuesday, May 5, 5:30 – 6:30 pm For ages 8-11. In May, Parent/Child Book Club will discuss the novel Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell. Attendees: 10 Birthday Story Time Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 – 7:00 pm For ages 2-6. Join us for stories and songs about birthdays! Attendees: 37 Minecraft Club Thursday, May 7, 4:00 – 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: 26 Crochet Workshop Friday, May 8, 3:30 – 4:30 pm All ages. Registration required. Crochet help for if you’re stuck, need guidance on a new skill or stitch, or just picking out a new project! Please register for one 15-minute session per person. Assistance provided by Mara from the Sow's Ear. Attendees: 5 Beginning Crochet Friday, May 8, 4:30 – 5:30 pm Ages 8-15. Registration required. 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. Attendees: 9 Read to a Dog Friday, May 8, 4:00 – 5:30 pm and Saturday, May 9, 1:30 – 3:00 pm Ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Attendees: 4, 11 Child Development Story Time Tuesday, May 12, 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! We took advantage of this week between our story time session and school visits to schedule special morning story times and collaborative events, which were all well-attended. Attendees: 64 Kindermusik Wednesday, May 13, 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: 52 Chat & Chew Book Club: The Holes Series Wednesday, May 13, 6:00 – 7:00 pm For ages 12-14. Calling all 12-14 year-olds! We are starting a new book club just for you!! Each month we will discuss a standalone book or a series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the book(s). In May, we will discuss the Holes series by Louis Sachar. Attendees: 2 Spanish Story Time/Hora de Cuentos Thursday, May 14, 10:30 – 11:00 am Designed for ages 3-6. Para edades 3-6. 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. Attendees: 34 Pokémon Club Thursday, May 14, 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. No registration. Attendees: 23 Daniel Tiger: Angry Feelings Story Time Friday, May 15, 10:00 – 10:30 am Designed for ages 2-5. Hear Daniel Tiger stories and sing songs about coping with angry feelings, then join in an activity, discussion, and a brief Q&A with child therapists from Kind Therapy, LLC. Julie had been wanting to do an emotional regulation story time since attending a conference session presented by PBS Kids, and when Kind Therapy reached out about doing a program, it seemed like a good chance to work together. Participants seemed to appreciate the stories and songs about angry feelings plus the opportunity to hear from the therapists and talk with them at the end. It was a good example of how collaboration can work well. Attendees: 70 Favorite Books & Bites: The Lemonade War Series Monday, May 18, 4:00 – 5:00 pm For ages 8-11. Discuss the Lemonade War series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the books. Attendees: 13 Utka Ensemble: Storybook Music Project Monday, May 18, 4:30 – 5:15 pm For all ages. Join the Utka Ensemble for a free musical story time at the library! A great way to introduce children to the power (and fun!) of classical music, the Utka musicians will present diverse children's picture books alongside carefully curated music. From beloved classics like Peter Rabbit to newer favorites, it’s an experience for the whole family to enjoy. The ensemble features piano, oboe and violin. This event is sponsored by Beyond the Page, National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Madison Community Foundation. Attendees: 38 Toddler Art and Play Tuesday, May 19, 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. Attendees: 73 Read to a Dog Saturday, May 19, 4:00 – 5:30 pm and Wednesday, May 20, 4:00 – 5:30 pm Ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Attendees: 5, 7 Tween Craft: Comics Club Thursday, May 21, 5:00 – 6:00 pm For ages 8-11. Write your own graphic novel or comic book and connect with other comics fans. Continue a story you already started or invent something brand new! Attendees: 0 Ocean Story Time Saturday, May 23, 9:30 – 10:00 am Designed for ages 1-5. Join us for an ocean-themed story time with books, songs, and rhymes. Attendees: 28 Upcoming In-Library Kids’ Events Summer Reading Program school visits began on May 20 and are scheduled through June 9. Teen volunteers are steadily signing up to volunteer for the summer through our volunteer application on our web page, with trainings in early June and shifts beginning June 20. Slight modifications have been made to the reading program log, but it’s essentially the same as last year, with kids tracking any day that they do reading, earning coupons and free books at the 20, 40 and 60-day thresholds. There will be new coupons this year from Ian’s Pizza, Sugar River Pizza, and JonnyO’s Pizzeria in Belleville (can there be too much pizza? We think not). This summer’s theme is “Unearth a Story,” so some summer programming focuses on dinosaurs. Robotics and STEM with StemForce Saturday, May 30, 1:30 – 2:30 pm Designed for ages 6-11. The StemForce robotics team of local middle schoolers will bring their team's First Tech challenge robot and allow participants to learn more about STEM and robotics, plus get hands-on experience with their robot. Caregivers are welcome but do not need to register. Music & Movement Story Time Tuesday, June 2, 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 Summer of June Tuesday, June 2, 5:30 – 6:30 pm For ages 8-11. In June, Parent/Child Book Club will discuss the novel The Summer of June by Jamie Sumner. Chat & Chew Book Club: The Lions' Run Wednesday, June 3, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Calling all 12-14 year-olds! We are starting a new book club just for you!! Each month we will discuss a standalone book or a series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the book(s). In June, we will discuss The Lions' Run by Sara Pennypacker. Minecraft Club Thursday, June 4, 4:00 – 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. Story Time with Author Avani Chhaya Friday, June 5, 9:30 – 10:00 am For ages 2-5. Soak up the sunny season with summertime books, along with a read-aloud of Lakshmi at the Lake, with picture book author Avani Chhaya. Hands-on activity stations will be provided after the story time. Dinosaur Story Time Wednesday, June 10, 6:30 – 7:00 pm For ages 2-6. Join us for stories and songs about dinosaurs! Read to a Dog Thursday, June 11, 3:00 – 4:30 pm Ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Pokémon Club Thursday, June 11, 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. Summer Reading Kick-Off Saturday, June 13, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm For all ages. Celebrate the beginning of summer reading! Enjoy ice cream sundaes, balloon twisting, a visit from a Verona fire truck and more! Adults: come and pick up a fun piece of "swag" from the adult reading challenge table, and learn how to participate in this summer- long program! Sponsored by the Friends of the Verona Public Library. Summer Story Time June 15 – July 31 Baby Story Time: Fridays at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm Toddler Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:30 am Preschool Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 am Sensory Story Time: Thursdays at 9:30 am Outdoor Story Time: Thursdays at 10:30 am Read It & Eat: The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli Monday, June 15, 4:00 – 5:00 pm For ages 8-11. Discuss the book The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli by Karina Yan Glaser, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the book. Bubble Play Time Tuesday, June 16, 11:00 – 11:45 am For ages 0-5. Stop by the library between 10:30-11:15 AM and enjoy our outdoor space behind the library with your little one and socialize with other caregivers. We will have our bubble machines set up to provide bubble fun. Bring your own blanket in case the grass is wet. Tween Craft: Bling It On! Wednesday, June 17, 2:00 – 3:00 pm For ages 8-11. Join us at the library for a sparkling hour of creativity! Tweens will decorate a free pair of sunglasses with colorful gems and charms to create a one-of-a-kind accessory. Read to a Dog Saturday, June 20, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Crafternoon: Celebrate America Monday, June 22, 2:00 – 3:00 pm For ages 4-10. Drop in for a fun crafternoon and get creative with different art projects each week. Toddler Art and Play Tuesday, June 23, 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. Family Fun Magic with Glen Gerard Tuesday, June 23, 4:00 – 5:00 pm and 6:30 – 7:30 pm Designed for ages 3-11. Super fun magic for kids of all ages, with tons of audience participation and involvement! Sponsored by the Friends of the Verona Public Library. Tween Snack: Butter Believe It! Wednesday, June 24, 2:00 – 3:00 pm For ages 8-11. Move over snacks—there’s butter fun happening! Kids will learn how butter is made and help shake up their very own homemade batch. Then it’s time to get creative by mixing in tasty flavors like sweet, savory, or cheesy to make a mini butter board. Participants will sample their creations with bread, crackers, or veggies while exploring different flavor combinations. Read to a Dog Thursday, June 25, 4:00 – 5:30 pm and Saturday, June 27, 1:30 – 3:00 pm Ages 5-11. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend. Prehistoric Paintings Thursday, June 25, 4:00 – 5:00 pm For ages 6-11. Paint a picture of a dinosaur or any prehistoric creature of your choice! Bring your imagination and be ready to make mistakes and get messy. Painting instruction not included. Dino Dance Party Tuesday, June 30, 10:00 – 10:45 am Designed for ages 1-5. Shake, stomp, and roar like a dinosaur! Join us for a roarin' good time at our Dino Dance Party. Bubble Play Time Tuesday, June 30, 11:00 – 11:45 am For ages 0-5. Stop by the library between 10:30-11:15 AM and enjoy our outdoor space behind the library with your little one and socialize with other caregivers. We will have our bubble machines set up to provide bubble fun. Bring your own blanket in case the grass is wet. Teen Events Donuts & Gaming Thursday, April 30, 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: 9 Crafty Tuesday Tuesday, May 5, 4:00 pm Stop by Teen Central for DIY projects. Create throughout the week, as supplies last. Comments: Teens decorated glass terrariums with mini figurines, preserved moss, rocks, and air plants! This was a favorite for many! Attendees: 32 Chat & Chew Book Club: Holes Series Thursday, April 16, 7:00 – 8:00 pm Calling all 12-14 year-olds! Each month we discuss a book or a series, plus enjoy activities and snacks related to the book(s). In May, we will discuss the Holes series by Louis Sachar. Comments: readers enjoyed dirt cups, discussion, and a Holes-themed digital escape room. Attendees: 2 BRMS Make’n’munch Thursday, May 21, 11:00 – 1:30 pm Students at Badger Ridge Middle School who have signed up for library during lunch can enjoy some crafting time. Comments: teens decorated slap bracelets and created DIY stickers. Attendees: 27 Upcoming Teen Events Donuts & Gaming Thursday, May 28, 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! Chat & Chew Book Club: The Lions’ Run Wednesday, June 3, 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). In June, we will discuss The Lions' Run by Sara Pennypacker. Crafty Tuesday Tuesday, June 9, 4:00 pm Stop by Teen Central for DIY projects. Create throughout the week, as supplies last. Ice Cream Making & Sidewalk Painting Monday, June 15, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Shake up your own ice-cream-in-a-bag, and then add tasty toppings (yum)! Then spend a relaxing moment decorating our sidewalks with temporary paint colors. Teen Craft: Bedazzled Sunglasses Wednesday, June 17, 4:00 – 5:00 pm Add some sparkle and shine to your summer by bedazzling a free pair of sunglasses with gems! Donuts & Gaming Thursday, June 18, 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! Teen Snack: Butter Days Ahead Wednesday, June 24, 4:00 – 5:00 pm Move over charcuterie. Butter has arrived! Learn how easy it is to make homemade butter, and then create your own butter board recipes. Make it sweet, spicy, herby, or cheesy! Add ingredients and enjoy trying the different styles with dipping choices of bread, crackers, or vegetables. Friday Night: Capture the Flag Friday, June 26, 7:00 – 8:30 pm Come to the library after-hours for capture the flag and other classic games! Form teams and work together to defend and advance your side's goals. Wear comfortable clothing! *Please note this event may involve running, crouching, crawling, etc. among library stacks. Escape Room Wednesday, June 30, 3:00 – 4:00 pm and 4:15 – 5:15 pm Solve puzzles, find clues, and crack locks to escape an adventure! Adult Events Distance Learning English Classes for Adults Mondays 6:00 – 7:30 pm, Level: Beginner, January 26 – April 28, 2026 Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Level: Intermediate, January 20 – April 28, 2026 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. The last class of session meets in-person at the library. April 28, attendees: 9 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. April 28, attendees: 6 May 5, attendees: 5 May 12, attendees: 2 May 19, attendees: Memory Café Tuesday, May 5, 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: 6 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. April 29, attendees: 12 May 6, attendees: 16 May 20, attendees: 11 Verona Public Library 20th Building Anniversary Party Wednesday, May 6, 4:30 – 6:30 pm The library building is turning 20! Come and celebrate all of the wonderful things that have happened so far within these walls! There will be cake and punch to enjoy, crafts and activities in which to participate, and a special birthday story time at 6:30 pm for little kids to follow! Attendees: 260 Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unitarian Meeting House at 75 Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 – 7:30 pm This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Unitarian Meeting House, widely regarded as one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most significant achievements. Through a blend of narrative and archival photographs and documents, this presentation explores the planning, construction, and preservation of this deeply personal work—a National Historic Landmark that redefined the concept of sacred space since its completion in 1951. Attendees: 23 White Jasmine Cooking Class Thursday, May 7, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Join us for another delicious evening with White Jasmine's Huma Siddiqui-Seitz as she demonstrates the steps and shares the recipes for traditional Pakistani dishes. This program's menu will feature Mediterranean vegetable tagine and couscous with green onions, spinach and cilantro with Tandoori Masala. Attendees: 24 Historical Fiction Book Club Friday, May 8, 10:00 – 11:00 am This month we will read and discuss What the Wind Knows, by Amy Harmon. Attendees: 6 Celebrating 250 Years of Tea in America Saturday, May 9, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Do you like tea? Do you like history? What about delicious and elegant food? If you answered yes to one or all of these questions, this is definitely the event for you! Author, Journalist and Speaker Veronica Hinke will highlight the history of tea and tea parties in America, with a particular focus on the Victorian, Edwardian, and Prohibition eras. Attendees: 37 Mosaic Knit Along Monday, May 11, 4:30 – 6:00 pm Join Library Yarns for a mosaic knit along with the popular Pressed Flowers motif. Mosaic knitting is a colorwork knitting technique with only one color worked per row, invented by late knitting revolutionary Barbara G Walker. Over three sessions, we will learn the history and basics of mosaic knitting with the Pressed Flowers project of your choice. This program is appropriate for intermediate knitters comfortable with casting on and binding off, knitting and purling, and basic increases and decreases. You will be responsible for your own materials for your project; yarn, needles, etc. Attendees: 11 Stop the Bleed Tuesday, May 12, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Stop the Bleed training, led by members of the Fitch-Rona EMS, empowers people to act quickly and be the help until help arrives. You will learn how to use your hands, dressings and tourniquets to control bleeding to immediately assist people with massive or uncontrolled bleeding until professional responders arrive. Attendees: 9 Library Yarns: Yarn and Materials Swap Wednesday, May 13, 4:30 – 6:30 pm Got extra yarn or yarn-related projects/supplies you aren't using? Others do too! Bring your unwanted things and take a look around for something you might be able to use. Attendees: 21 A Taste for Mystery Book Club Monday, May 18, 10:00 – 11:00 am This month we will read and discuss The Maid, by Nita Prose. Attendees: 12 Selecting and Growing Annuals Wednesday, May 20, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Join master gardener and UW Horticulture Extension volunteer Katie Hartman to learn which annuals to select and when/where to plant them for maximum garden health and beauty. Attendees: 13 Coffee with the Classics Friday, May 22, 10:00 am – 12:30 pm This month we will watch An American in Paris. Attendees: 11 Upcoming Adult Events Distance Learning English Classes for Adults May 26 – August 11 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 Craft Group Meets each Wednesday. Drop-in between 4:30 – 6:00 pm If you enjoy knitting, crochet, embroidery, or another needlecraft, please join us at a drop-in stitching circle. Meet up with other fiber art enthusiasts, learn new techniques, exchange ideas, or find inspiration for your next project. All skill levels welcome. Verona Aspiring Writers Group May 11 and June 1, 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! Guided Zen Meditation Tuesday, June 2, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Learn basic Zen meditation from a trained practitioner including how to position the body for stable and comfortable meditation, how to breathe correctly, and an overview of meditation benefits. The session will include about 30 minutes of instruction, followed by 15–20 minutes of practice and 5–10 minutes for questions. Local Author Visit: Kathie Giorgio Wednesday, June 3, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Kathie Giorgio is the author of eight novels, two story collections, an essay collection, and five collections of poetry. Awards include Pushcart Prize nominations in fiction and poetry, the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Wisconsin Library Association (The Home for Wayward Clocks), and the Pencraft Award for Literary Excellence (In Grace's Time and If You Tame Me). She is the founder and director of AllWriters’ Workshop and Workplace, a creative writing studio based in Waukesha, Wisconsin offering classes for writers in all genres and abilities. Kathie will share a selection of readings from her newest book, Birth of a Widow. Card Making Workshop: Butterflies & Botanicals Thursday, June 4, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Join Traci Raether of Plum Crazy Stamping for another fun and creative workshop during which you will make four beautiful cards. Journaling for Joy Workshop Tuesday, June 9, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Want to create and experience more joy in your life? This 1-hour program offers experiential exercises that elicit joy along with journaling for joy practice. Participants are encouraged to bring their own journal, but there will be journals available for everyone. AI Workshop: Building Confidence Through Practice Wednesday, June 10, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Artificial intelligence (AI) is showing up everywhere, and it can feel confusing or intimidating to know where to begin. This workshop series offers a supportive, beginner-friendly introduction to AI in a guided and low-pressure setting. Each session focuses on practical understanding, thoughtful use, and building confidence through practice. Rather than rushing or getting technical, we'll take time to explore how AI works, how to use it responsibly, and how to use it as a tool. The Historical Fiction Book Club Friday, June 12, 10:00 – 11:00 am This month we will read and discuss As Bright As Heaven, by Susan Meissner. A Taste for Mystery Book Club Monday, June 15, 10:00 – 11:00 am In June we will read and discuss The Thursday Murder Club, by Richard Osman. VPL Cookbook Club: Light & Healthy Food Tuesday, June 16, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Let's start the summer off on a healthy note by making lightened up versions of dishes this month. MG&E EV 101 Show and Tell Wednesday, June 17, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Interested in learning more about EVs (electric vehicles)? Join Madison Gas and Electric for a presentation on EVs with time to chat with the owners of popular EVs on display in the parking lot. Local Author Visit: LGBTQ Rights Advocate Kathy LaPlante Wednesday, June 17, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Celebrate Pride Month and a beautiful storyteller by coming to hear from local author Kathy LaPlante. 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. Coffee with the Classics Friday, June 19, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm This month we will watch Mary Poppins. Enjoy coffee and a sweet treat as you watch classic cinema in the comfort of the library's Community Room. The Firehose of Falsehood and the Spread of Extremism Saturday, June 20, 10:00 – 11:00 am As part of a year-long celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, Beyond the Page is sponsoring a visit from author Teri Kanefield, who will discuss the spread of disinformation in politics and give the audience insight into how to identify and defend against it. In her graphic novel, A Firehood of Falsehood: The Story of Disinformation, Ms.Kanefield uses examples from ancient rulers, modern political figures and internet trolls to show how disinformation can operate and emphasizes that a healthy democracy depends on being able to reach a shared understanding of the truth. Spanish for Beginners: Ordering at Restaurants Tuesday, June 23, 6:30 – 7:30 pm Join Spanish instructor Shannon Lucy for another fun and educational opportunity to learn some Spanish. This class will focus on ordering at restaurants. Forensic Science & the Wisconsin Crime Lab Wednesday, June 24, 6:30 – 8:00 pm TV shows like the CSI series glamorize (and expedite) the process of using forensic science to help solve crimes. This presentation will illustrate the real-life work of forensic scientists at the Wisconsin Crime Laboratory. Robert Block, who spent 34 years as an expert crime lab forensic analyst, will recount tales of unusual drug evidence analysis as well as chilling and haunting crime scene investigation details. If you love true crime and crime solving, this talk is for you! 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 live event. Author Talk: Jason Reynolds Thursday, April 30, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Total Views: 13 Author Talk: The Transformative Power of Love with Marjan Kamali Thursday, May 7, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Total Views: 4 Author Talk: Robot-Proof Your Kids (and Yourself) with Dr. Vivienne Ming Tuesday, May 12, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Total Views: 12 Author Talk: Reshape Your Beliefs with Nir Eyal Tuesday, May 19, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Total Views: 6 Upcoming Events: Author Talk: Your Ticket to the Best State Fair Crafts Wednesday, June 3, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Join us for a fascinating discussion with Smithsonian Curator Mary Savig on the history and significance of craft at state fairs—from blue-ribbon quilts to sculpted butter cows, and so much more! Author Talk: Matt Dinniman Thursday, June 11, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Hold onto your heart-patterned boxers! Matt Dinniman, New York Times bestselling author of the wildly popular (and just plain wild) Dungeon Crawler Carl series, joins us to chat about his latest book, A Parade of Horribles. Author Talk: Nurturing Future Generations with Ted Page Thursday, June 18, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Join us in conversation with this popular blogger and wonderful storyteller. Author Talk: Simple, Sustainable, and Powerfully Delicious Meals Tuesday, June 23, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Join the chat with Sana Javeri Kadri and Asha Loupy about The Diaspora Spice Co. Cookbook, which celebrates beautiful, simple, and seasonal cooking with 85 recipes adapted from India and Sri Lanka’s best family spice farms. Outreach Outreach Events Outreach story times: Total daycare story time presentations: 13 Books ‘n Booze at Stone Porch Alehouse Thursday, April 23, 6:00–7:00 pm The group discussed The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Attendees: 17 Four Winds Book Group Tuesday, April 28, 10:00–11:00 am The residents met to discuss Framed by John Grisham and Jim McCloskey. Comments: One new resident attended. Attendees: 8 Literacy Night at Glacier Edge Thursday, April 30, 5:00–7:00 pm The library provided an activity and library information for students at Glacier Edge. Comments: Students loved decorating a bookmark and receiving a library-branded “mood” pencil. Attendees: 96 YMCA After School Program at New Century/Verona Area International School Monday, May 4, 2:45–3:15 pm Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at New Century/Verona Area International School. Attendees: 32 Always There Fair Saturday, May 9, 9:00 am–12:00 pm The library had a table with information and a craft project at this event at Badger Ridge Middle School, presented by the GSAs from schools around the district. Attendees: 71 Story Time at The Sow’s Ear Tuesday, May 12, 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: 18 YMCA After School Program at Sugar Creek Tuesday, May 12, 3:00–3:30 pm Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Sugar Creek. Attendees: 17 Senior Center Book Group Wednesday, May 13, 10:00–11:00 am The group discussed The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams. Attendees: 23 Bilingual Community Resource Fair at Verona Area High School Monday, May 18, 10:30 am–1:30 pm The library had a table at the high school to promote library resources and teen volunteer opportunities. Comments: Governor Evers stopped by this event and mentioned his love of libraries. Attendees: 48 Girl Scout Group Visit Monday, May 18, 5:45–6:15 pm A local homeschool group visited the library to take a tour, listen to a few books, and learn about the work librarians do. Attendees: 7 YMCA After School Program at Glacier Edge Tuesday, May 19, 3:15–4:00 pm Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Glacier Edge. Comments: The students loved creating a frog craft project. Attendees: 22 YMCA After School Program at Core Knowledge Charter School Tuesday, May 19, 3:45–4:15 pm Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Core Knowledge Charter School. Attendees: 12 YMCA After School Program at Country View Thursday, May 21, 2:40–3:10 pm Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Country View. Attendees: 17 Upcoming Outreach Events: Four Winds Book Group Tuesday, May 26, 10:00–11:00 am The residents will meet to discuss The Cherry Harvest by Lucy Sanna. Noel Manor Book Group Wednesday, May 27, 10:30–11:30 am The group will be discussing The Cold Millions by Jess Walter. Books and Booze at Stone Porch Alehouse Thursday, May 28, 6:00–7:00 pm The group will be discussing The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young. Country View Reading Celebration Tuesday, June 2, 8:30–9:30 am The library will provide summer reading information as part of Country View’s annual reading celebration. Core Knowledge Charter School Field Trip Thursday, June 4, 9:30–10:30 am First graders from Core Knowledge will visit the library for a read aloud, craft project, and buddy read. Prairie Oaks Book Group Thursday, June 4, 1:30–2:30 pm The group will be reading The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose. Story Time at The Sow’s Ear Tuesday, June 9, 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, June 10, 10:00–11:00 am The group will be reading Horse by Geraldine Brooks. SPRING ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE April 20 – May 31 Workshops Memory and Narrative Art Workshop Thursday, April 30, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Attendees: Scraps Workshop Saturday, May 16, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm Attendees: Pennsylvania Pastoral: Discussing Childhood Memory and Place Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Attendees: